tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36204350257774862722024-03-06T00:01:58.433-08:00Fighting ForwardSlaughter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04981267737597091999noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-78728892032284836332012-07-16T09:37:00.000-07:002012-07-16T10:05:17.680-07:00"Firsts" Continue to Make a DifferenceThere are certain activities that we all seem to look forward to, and I suppose its different for everyone. Some may look forward with great anticipation to a certain holiday, others to a family vacation, and yet someone else may be on pins and needles waiting for the upcoming college football season to begin. For us I suppose its a little bit of all those things, but one thing I don't think we anticipated when Madeline passed away would be what I call the "firsts". The "firsts" can be very difficult when its obvious someone is missing, whether its the first holiday, the first vacation, or especially the first birthday. We just returned home from another "first", it was our first family camping trip without Madeline. Like most of our previous 'firsts' there was some anxiety, some tenderness, and even some anger that she would not be with us, but we forged ahead. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a little excited about camping </td></tr>
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After getting the tent trailer out of storage and making a few minor repairs we packed up and headed to St. Charles Canyon in Idaho. Its a family favorite from years past when children were smaller and watching squirrels and chipmunks can entertain for hours. I was amazed at how small rodents are still entertaining to grown up children and their mom. I was also amazed at the sweetness of past memories spent with our children in this beautiful alpine setting as well as the sandy shores of Bear Lake's north beach. It was a wonderful tribute to time spent together as a family as past memories continued to tug on our sentimental heartstrings and new memories blossomed with our ever changing family. I was also surprised to see that children, even those classified as grown up still argue and complain about minor inconveniences and differences of opinion as well as get super excited about campfires, marshmallow's and melting chocolate. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our friend Chunky</td></tr>
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We couldn't help but see and feel Madey's influence throughout our trip, whether it was the young moose we saw while driving through Logan Canyon which immediately reminded us of Madey's souvenir hat and t-shirt from our last family trip to Yellowstone that read "cool as moose". Or it may have been the hummingbird that dive bombed our camp on occasion, or the echoes of an unmistakable laugh that sounded off in our trailer during Hillary's demon barbie impression. Whatever it may have been Madey was with us in this "first" just like she has been in all the others. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the beach </td></tr>
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With a stack of "firsts" behind us, we now find ourselves looking at some "seconds" as well. This coming Thursday July 19th, will be Madeline's 17th birthday, our second celebrated without her. In the spirit of being a difference maker we invite everyone to look for an opportunity to try and make difference in someone else's life this Thursday in memory of Madeline. The best part is you get to decide what you will do to make a difference for someone else on that day, large or small everything we do makes a difference. If you feel like it we would love to have you post a comment on our blog and tell us a little about what you did or a memory you have of Madey making a difference for you. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Madey alwasy loved being in the trailer</td></tr>
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As a family we continue to be blessed by the powerful example that so many of you are to us. We are also blessed by the influence that Madeline left in our home and the understanding that we will have her with us again someday. May the Lord continue to bless each of us in our efforts to make a difference for others. </div>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-69343566373086347082012-01-10T16:07:00.000-08:002012-01-10T17:31:39.268-08:00No Matter What...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0k4yhlnS0S6IpOhIe8Ukq2JEGoiPWquNTBekLrobPfYTsOZKzhvoOL3q371yMx5JMUYj5lmPgCCm0wUC_RQ2XznW14w-d3DrsDIeGu9qg7MWIHZBFp1hLaAFeS5CrGBhHsgRFWpf5x8/s1600/Christmas+Day.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 284px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0k4yhlnS0S6IpOhIe8Ukq2JEGoiPWquNTBekLrobPfYTsOZKzhvoOL3q371yMx5JMUYj5lmPgCCm0wUC_RQ2XznW14w-d3DrsDIeGu9qg7MWIHZBFp1hLaAFeS5CrGBhHsgRFWpf5x8/s320/Christmas+Day.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696180791671380962" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BipfwxomBj8V1kxmBzTcihJsBAl_MWlnxWMxacgUyh-uyTjWIxTgLkGrWYrY2q7fQkkWDLzmbq6BqsQ_glEXeAzW3hC8hc5OKKFu2gooow3ZPDKWYJRb8SfqobfmX0U1XumGp4PTNzs/s1600/Nativity.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 258px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BipfwxomBj8V1kxmBzTcihJsBAl_MWlnxWMxacgUyh-uyTjWIxTgLkGrWYrY2q7fQkkWDLzmbq6BqsQ_glEXeAzW3hC8hc5OKKFu2gooow3ZPDKWYJRb8SfqobfmX0U1XumGp4PTNzs/s320/Nativity.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696180788595356610" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtddjxrjcAxeruOI5_b44b3_2qJ-981ucLpxSwx32XxUmY388gVZG18czQUzIwwll7xBXABbDAT3H1h2ptWO4l2_g6B0nWlfWMMdI8nT_avBx9JgwekP5ADEHROnY25XwJWZbCZDgN7I/s1600/Christmas+Angel.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 191px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtddjxrjcAxeruOI5_b44b3_2qJ-981ucLpxSwx32XxUmY388gVZG18czQUzIwwll7xBXABbDAT3H1h2ptWO4l2_g6B0nWlfWMMdI8nT_avBx9JgwekP5ADEHROnY25XwJWZbCZDgN7I/s320/Christmas+Angel.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696180781508356114" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOn8GDVI82Vf3-VgL5Xpab2tzZbxdjcZObTzTECCNjODSvKjUI_y1vBTSP7UObhVpR-LNssQ_idygDKnk1UyHamwKcPygxCbE4JVPJ3DGnSZJSEgk8nc58tGzxFcciGMXlVBEUYr8fSPw/s1600/CDcemetary.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 191px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOn8GDVI82Vf3-VgL5Xpab2tzZbxdjcZObTzTECCNjODSvKjUI_y1vBTSP7UObhVpR-LNssQ_idygDKnk1UyHamwKcPygxCbE4JVPJ3DGnSZJSEgk8nc58tGzxFcciGMXlVBEUYr8fSPw/s320/CDcemetary.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696180776103126130" /></a><br />Dear Madey, <div>There is so much that I would like to say to you, I don't know exactly where to begin so I guess I will just jump in. I miss you. I have been thinking about all of the things that are different now that you are in Heavenly Fathers care. The first thing that comes to mind is how quiet our house is, with Lindy living in Logan, and Hillary in Provo its just quiet. There is no girl drama in our house, except for your mom and that's minimal. There are also no basketball shorts, stinky sweat socks, sports bras or sliding shorts on the floor in your room. I miss having you tell Landon all the things he does that bug you. There are about a million and one more things that I could list, I miss hearing you laugh, watching you play ball, car rides home from the game, your lame practical jokes that really never worked, watching you play with Max, listening to you play your guitar and singing at the top of your lungs, what a beautiful voice you have, and how you always cheered for the underdog. </div><div>There is so much I would like to know about where you are and what you do, sights, sounds, people you've met, who you spend your time with, how my dad is doing, what your grandparents are up to, the list goes on and on. Since I will have to wait to know all of those things, I suppose I will tell you what is going on here. </div><div>Lindy and Cameron are still living in Logan. Lindy has just a year of school left at Utah State and she should graduate in elementary education. I think she will be an awesome grade school teacher, there. will plenty of little boys with teacher crushes on your sister. </div><div>Hillary is in Provo at BYU, its a good fit for her. She has finished her first semester and her grades were good, shocking...not, and she has a job on campus that she seems to like a lot. </div><div>Landon likes fairfield jr. he is starting to want to go to the mall and shop for stuff like jeans and shirts. He doesn't ask to go to Toy R Us or Chuckie Cheese anymore, he thinks he is a grown up. </div><div>Mom is working at Interform now, its a little weird not having her work from home. It has turned her world upside down and inside out. She just finished reading the Book of Mormon so she could get her honor bee, in honor of you. </div><div>I have been teaching at Layton again, I see your friends all the time. It still seems strange to watch them and you not be with them. I won't see them much this next semester, they want me to teach at Clearfield starting next week, I think it will be a good move. </div><div>I get random emails and people still stop me from time to time to tell me how much you have impacted their lives. When the scriptures teach that "the worth of souls is great in the sight of God" I believe that is something you understood more than I knew. I am amazed at the number of people your life has impacted and the impact your memory continues to have on others. Whether it was your smile, your kind and reassuring friendship, your laugh or your willingness to serve, it seems everything you did made a difference for someone. I guess I write that not only because its true but because my life is forever impacted by the privilege it is to be your father. I think I'm a little bit kinder, a little more patient, and a lot more willing to help others because of you. </div><div>Now Madey, I just want you and anyone else who cares to know that the separation we are experiencing now is temporary. I know the day will come when our family will all be reunited because of the grace, and mercy of the atonement of Jesus Christ. And wow! what a day that will be!</div><div>I love you...no matter what. No matter if you are here or there the love of our family is eternal. </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Angel Day! </div><div>Love, Dad</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-73420786629283750792011-11-08T08:22:00.000-08:002011-11-08T08:24:10.086-08:00GoMad and Make a Difference!Hillary wrote this story with the intention of it being printed in the paper, hasn't made it there yet, but could very soon.<br /><br />What comes to mind when you think of your childhood? Perhaps you think of summer days riding bikes around the neighborhood, or playing superheroes in the backyard. Maybe you were the kid who had the coolest action figures and race cars, or maybe you were the one with the best dress ups and biggest doll collection.<br />Now imagine a childhood where all that is taken away from you by illness. Imagine a childhood filled with doctor visits instead of bike races, medicine instead of dress ups. Instead of jumping out of bed with the sun to go play with friends you’re lucky if you feel good enough to just sit up in bed. Such a childhood is really no childhood at all, but unfortunately for many children it is their reality.<br />Life threatening illnesses, such as cancer, heart and organ malfunctions, and sickle cell diseases, are not confined to adults. According to the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation, there are 13,500 children in the United States diagnosed with cancer every year. Of these 13,500 children, 1 in every 5 will die from the disease.<br />There are, however, many organizations who are working to help these children find hope and regain their childhood, one such organization is the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Make-A-Wish is a nonprofit organization that, through the work of its 25,000 volunteers, helps brighten the lives of 213,443 children every 40 minutes. They grant wishes ranging from princess tea parties and meeting celebrities to trips to Disneyland. Their mission is to “grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.” It is a mission that has touched the lives of countless individuals, and one that they hope to continue.<br />On behalf of Make-A-Wish, Davis High School’s DECA club is holding a unique fundraising opportunity on November 11, 2011 at 11:11 a.m. in order to raise money to continue granting these life changing wishes. All you have to do is text the words GoMad to 50555 and they will charge an extra $5 to your cell phone bill that will go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.<br />Some may wonder why the words GoMad were chosen. The reason is because of a 15 year old cancer patient, named Madey. Madey was an active, athletic girl who participated in both softball and basketball. She loved to sing in her school show choir and played the guitar in her free time at home. She was a hard worker, a person who made a difference through her kindness to others. And she is my sister. In January 2010 her days on the court were cut short with the diagnosis of a type of bone cancer in her hip called Ewings Sarcoma. Madey’s life was no longer the life of a normal ninth grader, but the life of a cancer patient.<br />Her days became filled with doctor visits and chemo treatments. Her hair fell out and she lost her appetite. However, through it all Madey’s attitude remained positive as she continued to fight for her life.<br />A short time after her diagnosis Madey was granted a wish by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. She wished for a trip to Florida to visit the various theme parks with her family. Her dream was to swim with dolphins. In order for her to go, a fundraiser was held by Davis High School’s DECA club. On November 11, 2010 the fundraiser, titled Memories For Madey, brought together three rival high schools who were able to raise over $3,500 within a few minutes. Because of a digital fundraiser that was opened before November 11, over $10,000 was raised on Madey’s behalf for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.<br />However, Madey’s health took a turn for the worse. She passed away in January 2011, leaving behind her a legacy of friendship and courage that would continue to touch the lives of those who knew her.<br />In memory of Madey, my sister who made a difference, Davis High School’s DECA has titled this year’s fundraiser, GoMad. The money donated will go to help give hope and a bit of fun to children fighting life threatening illnesses around the world through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. A childhood governed by illness is a bleak one, but with your help that childhood can become more happy and more hopeful. This November 11 go make a difference, GoMad!<br />For more information about GoMad and how else you can help, check out their website at <a href="http://www.gomad2011.com/">www.gomad2011.com</a>.<br /><br /><br />Websites used for research:<br /><a href="http://www.wish.org/stories/where_are_they_now">http://www.wish.org/stories/where_are_they_now</a><br /><a href="http://www.jeffgordonchildrensfoundation.org/site/c.5oIDJRPyGfISF/b.6874173/k.4BBE/Childhood_Cancer_Stats.htm">http://www.jeffgordonchildrensfoundation.org/site/c.5oIDJRPyGfISF/b.6874173/k.4BBE/Childhood_Cancer_Stats.htm</a><br /><a href="http://www.gomad2011.com/">http://www.gomad2011.com/</a><br /><br /><a name="_GoBack"></a>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-40157570642869628382011-07-18T17:19:00.000-07:002011-07-18T19:06:35.367-07:00Happy Birthday! We love you!Tomorrow, July 19th is Madeline's 16th birthday. As we wade through a whole new set of emotions and grief we can't help but ask the question, "What do you want for your birthday?" For most 16 year old girls it would probably be something along the lines of clothes, mp3 player, cell phone, drivers license, boyfriend or a car.<br />In Madey's case we thought there might be something more substantial that we could offer. Since we often take time to remember her and all that she taught us during her short life on earth, we couldn't help but think of all the times people have shared with us experiences when Madeline did something that made a difference in their lives. We have had some tell us that it was her smile, her kind hello, her welcoming personality, her faithful friendship, her desire for the underdog to come out on top, or her beautiful singing voice, or her contagious laugh that made the difference for them. Whatever it may have been, for Madeline's birthday we are asking for everyone to give Madey the present of being a difference maker. I guess what that means to us, is to look for an opportunity to make a difference for someone on Tuesday, July 19th. It doesn't have to be a grand or glorious act, most of what Madey did was simple, yet genuine. It could be something seemingly insignificant like opening a door for someone, sharing a kind word, sending a thank you note, sitting with the lonely, or any number of things. Whatever you decide to do whether it seems small to you or not, could be the difference maker for someone else. It might be the very thing that lifts their spirits or puts a smile on an otherwise unhappy face. And if you want to whisper a little 'happy birthday' to Madey when your done I think she would like it.<br />We feel like we have been the recipients of a lot of kindness, love, faith and prayers. And as we continue to find our way we know the Lord is with us.<br /><br />Thanks Again for your continued faith, prayers, love, and kindness.<br /><br />The SlaughtersGeorgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-22483227300052679872011-06-12T11:32:00.000-07:002011-06-12T16:20:41.659-07:00Gratitude, Graduation, and Grandeur<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XY3PL2wLfpU7Nu4zMFKc7tIMQeeKLNQ51f844lRKQjCSX1vhL7YEeMT-2TOSq9TOIy_7dMvInSKNrJfmGJXG_lDlhqunUs_68JIDj3X26aOevVIhUyF4KEA7EzJ3uokb81N-iHRNAhE/s1600/IMAG0294-1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 120px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XY3PL2wLfpU7Nu4zMFKc7tIMQeeKLNQ51f844lRKQjCSX1vhL7YEeMT-2TOSq9TOIy_7dMvInSKNrJfmGJXG_lDlhqunUs_68JIDj3X26aOevVIhUyF4KEA7EzJ3uokb81N-iHRNAhE/s200/IMAG0294-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617475884054334882" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP8nOEsRALqQ5L72Vh5fAsMXxzuZxKHLWemXZ7BH8TWzg6izAKIbqs4iakHxLaHqcCH6eLOsihwy2Mn51xNuON6GBhxv55JRIz026kHPk0rjOGwjHPnQrLyLM00c1uWFsL2U4bur5uY8/s1600/IMAG0309.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP8nOEsRALqQ5L72Vh5fAsMXxzuZxKHLWemXZ7BH8TWzg6izAKIbqs4iakHxLaHqcCH6eLOsihwy2Mn51xNuON6GBhxv55JRIz026kHPk0rjOGwjHPnQrLyLM00c1uWFsL2U4bur5uY8/s200/IMAG0309.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617475872970996834" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvFBv6Q6m4PoPYYwcmbG7JkZpISbd9Yf_PBCpWGTM3EVwQweYdD9ec1qMT46ovLs7QbT3kdpswXnwIGTX4IIllfTtXgCcOEugjEzI1gbQRM8ZvPgtVdyBSU9CyCtirdd_O4VstVGBRo4/s1600/IMAG0214-1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 118px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvFBv6Q6m4PoPYYwcmbG7JkZpISbd9Yf_PBCpWGTM3EVwQweYdD9ec1qMT46ovLs7QbT3kdpswXnwIGTX4IIllfTtXgCcOEugjEzI1gbQRM8ZvPgtVdyBSU9CyCtirdd_O4VstVGBRo4/s200/IMAG0214-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617475870031519442" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Another school year has come and gone, its hard <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_ctp1s3nFnu0xinToCd9IYE9SE7iVfjRIgiWjN529fPRae1cZlTsUcPW5RxhclD5ddhi9kdlM5FvMUDsK_vXm7vcklXciNUUWMTMHeW6VX5Voe5a6pqUE1LCdV4-627kYoLlKG8W1dk/s1600/IMAG0182.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 117px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_ctp1s3nFnu0xinToCd9IYE9SE7iVfjRIgiWjN529fPRae1cZlTsUcPW5RxhclD5ddhi9kdlM5FvMUDsK_vXm7vcklXciNUUWMTMHeW6VX5Voe5a6pqUE1LCdV4-627kYoLlKG8W1dk/s200/IMAG0182.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617475861341959106" border="0" /></a>to believe so much <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8oZvKK4-9CmhMRsSOMpkUFOm1JVWtuXLhA9Ve5QQl1opYxFwguiXbCCC8wEDPpwmg2YhnCEJXJwD8zD485035aFL607VQZWpdheW-rD_HOpMj3zsG6mj47UnWmV1jiJ-v6sqreQlPCM/s1600/IMAG0245.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8oZvKK4-9CmhMRsSOMpkUFOm1JVWtuXLhA9Ve5QQl1opYxFwguiXbCCC8wEDPpwmg2YhnCEJXJwD8zD485035aFL607VQZWpdheW-rD_HOpMj3zsG6mj47UnWmV1jiJ-v6sqreQlPCM/s200/IMAG0245.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617476716922479666" border="0" /></a>has happened in the last few months. I'm really not sure where to begin. I suppose I can start with Landon and see where it goes from there. </div><br /><br /><div>Landon has graduated from 6th grade, yeah! We will not have any children in elemantry school, ever again, which is really weird... he is very excited about moving on to Jr. High and the masses of pre-pubescent teens with acne, body odor, and a perpetual awkwardness that will accompany him and most of his peers for the next few years. He was involved in ballroom dance this year at school and also had a part in the school play "Honk" a musical version of the Ugly Duckling. It was sure fun to watch him and his friends as the play came together. Landon is also looking forward to scout camp and will be attending Space Camp in Alabama this month. He is now taller than his mom and seems to grow in his sleep. </div><br /><br /><div>Hillary just graduated from Layton High, can I get a Woot! Woot! She is very excited to move on to college, she will be attending BYU - Provo this fall (Go Cougars!). Hillary was very involved in school this year with Key Club and the Science Olympiad Team. The Layton High team took state this year and she got to travel to Wisconsin to compete in Nationals. We are very proud of all her hard work and we know the things she has learned will definately bless her at the next level. </div><br /><br /><div>Lindy and Cameron are in Logan attending Utah State, Lindy has been accepted into the Elementary Education program there, she and Cameron are both working hard and learning together about the struggles of married college students. </div><br /><br /><div>Madey continues to make a difference in our home and we have been blessed by many that continue to remember her. Last month Fairfield Jr. High retired Madey's basketball jersey. It was a tender moment, our hearts were full as coach Ron took a moment to honor her and present us with her jersey. We are also trying to continue the difference maker legacy. This year we started a scholarship. "The Difference Maker Scholarship in Honor of Madeline Slaughter". The scholarship was offered at three high schools here in the area, Northridge, Davis, and Layton. It was a rewarding and emotional experience to be involved in the process of selecting recipients and awarding the scholarships. But we felt it was what Madey wanted us to do and that she was pleased. Our hope is that we can continue to fund the scholarship for many years to come. </div><br /><br /><div>Now that the school year is over we took the time to go to Jackson Hole, Wyoming and check out Grand Teton National Park. We had a wonderful family vacation and enjoyed time together as well as the beauty of the park. We were also reminded of life lessons learned. While hiking to Hidden Falls in the Jenny Lake area of the park, we found that much of the trail was still covered in several feet of snow. Landon didn't have on very good hiking shoes and struggled to get good traction. We were just about 30 yards from achieving our goal of the falls when Landon decided we should quit and go back. I aked him how he would feel if when we got back to the lake he realized we missed the waterfall by a few yards? He still didn't want to go on, but with some urging he continued and we all got to see the splendor of this magnificent scene. It made me stop and think how many times in my life I have wanted to quit when I was just short of a desired goal or needed blessing. I guess I was reminded that sometimes the blessing comes solely by completing the journey. </div><br /><br /><div>As we move forward on our journey we hope that we will have the courage to continue even when the trail is difficult and we feel like turning back. Knowing that the Lord will bless us along the way. </div>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-3804829074615282162011-03-20T17:20:00.000-07:002011-03-20T19:22:51.337-07:00Thank you, Miss Madey!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRSKh8sLZyWxEupCuaHSEKpW5PSNo7qjoJva3iGscCsaPTt3ZkiGodAxZlljj2gWSzYzJr3-TZrNB-xrEPoQ2efXDltNJLfplUXiXuJCTIMXHyI90UiyosfOZJTbmXovdPjIfTdbmQ0c/s1600/Florida+216.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586352881453413266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRSKh8sLZyWxEupCuaHSEKpW5PSNo7qjoJva3iGscCsaPTt3ZkiGodAxZlljj2gWSzYzJr3-TZrNB-xrEPoQ2efXDltNJLfplUXiXuJCTIMXHyI90UiyosfOZJTbmXovdPjIfTdbmQ0c/s200/Florida+216.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxwQuFvDRa8Mk39QzdwTLAR3ARzc_HYiwNnmOeK_gO1gdFdpxx2Aj1RNQ5hfCsDNtagpSzspeW_NiaoLEe3T472KJU1Lcuyn9pOb-QbCsIHgH4bjanj6l_vYHfxyMU9xIltGasG0vi7Xg/s1600/Florida+338.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586351514701636514" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxwQuFvDRa8Mk39QzdwTLAR3ARzc_HYiwNnmOeK_gO1gdFdpxx2Aj1RNQ5hfCsDNtagpSzspeW_NiaoLEe3T472KJU1Lcuyn9pOb-QbCsIHgH4bjanj6l_vYHfxyMU9xIltGasG0vi7Xg/s200/Florida+338.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7YDEoJhnDVypmK6Ti96rtqikUfrrsPTdPko1RpHxU08i1PmQUEp_MPb4otJ6lqXp8OzzrB2T7IiwUsMDVawzgSXQphXmHMQg8AEIGH9ZAUD3jUvWNNgcAX92AnWIEYbNbd9XAoa3mxco/s1600/Florida+251.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586351510824817874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7YDEoJhnDVypmK6Ti96rtqikUfrrsPTdPko1RpHxU08i1PmQUEp_MPb4otJ6lqXp8OzzrB2T7IiwUsMDVawzgSXQphXmHMQg8AEIGH9ZAUD3jUvWNNgcAX92AnWIEYbNbd9XAoa3mxco/s200/Florida+251.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgksQwpePuo408XFCyj545vsfKKgiqodTHMtpEXF7WGCdd0Bja3gMHM126mLK2zxqx_amqpXbnLtKpqlJp9BteHOkfhDrUy8aG-Ez4ED3Ik0IaEkaNVqJbSivtb3BQOvJXsiWkUY16BaKY/s1600/Florida+216.JPG"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkYhhs4Jp4OWzaZiKJMF5Cwq08HTPH8l8rITynkPEefLy_sGX736Y9EBYiDJBZOJ4aVthZxi7P1t45f2asc3_sQmqtFapKPYRzDS14m_vVi6TTMtavlVFZCRaSyF46G-8pEsI3GDdC5EA/s1600/Florida+061.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586351501466622338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkYhhs4Jp4OWzaZiKJMF5Cwq08HTPH8l8rITynkPEefLy_sGX736Y9EBYiDJBZOJ4aVthZxi7P1t45f2asc3_sQmqtFapKPYRzDS14m_vVi6TTMtavlVFZCRaSyF46G-8pEsI3GDdC5EA/s200/Florida+061.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>It has been quite the internal struggle to know whether or not to continue updating our blog. For the longest time we thought since Madeline's battle was over maybe the blog should be over as well. But recent events have caused us to rethink our decision and so here we are looking for our "new normal". We really aren't sure what its supposed to look like or if we will even recognize it when its discovered, but we are learning a lot about ourselves and striving to embrace the unwanted changes in our life.<br />To help us on our journey we were blessed by the Make a Wish Foundation to take a trip to Florida. Madey had been granted a wish last year and just prior to her passing she changed her wish and requested that her family go to Florida on her behalf. When we received the news that Madey had changed her wish and that the foundation had made an exception to send us to Florida we were filled with many mixed emotions. The weeks leading up to the trip were filled with anxiety and fear, 'how can we take Madey's trip without Madey'? We were also informed that we would be staying at the "Give Kids the World Village" with other families that had children with terminal illnesses. We didn't know how we would feel when we saw beautiful bald headed children taking a break from their battle with cancer to enjoy Mickey, Minnie, and all that Disney World has to offer.<br />When we got to Florida and met the amazing people that run the Village, something started to change for us. We began to realize that this trip existed in many ways to help us heal. There were many teary moments, but they were good tears. We cried because we miss Madey, we cried because of the love and kindness of strangers, and we cried because we know no matter how much we miss our wonderful daughter, sister, and friend she truly is in a better place.<br />Our trip was truly amazing not only did we get to spend time at several theme parks, we also got to spend time as a family and we had what I guess you would call several "Madey Moments". One such moment came on the day we went to Sea World. We were so excited, none of us had ever been there and really didn't know what to expect. When we first arrived we immediately went to get seats for the dolphin show, it was really fun. We then went to the area where you can feed dolphins only to be discouraged by a long line. So we decided to see some of the other sights and come back later. The kids all wanted to ride the Manta rollercoaster, so while they waited in line Michelle and I went to save seats for the Shamu show. As luck would have it the roller coaster took longer than expected and the kids missed the killer whale show, so we watched it without them, awesome show. We decided we would go see some other shows and ride some rides and come back to Shamu for the second showing, which we did. After Shamu we hurried to the dolphin feeding area only to find out they had stopped feeding dolphins 15 minutes before we got there, bummer. So we hung around the dolphin viewing area trying to get a dolphin to come close enough so we could pet it. All Madey had wanted to do at Sea World was pet a dolphin. Well the dolphins were smarter than us and stayed just out of reach. I decided I should slap the wall to try and get their attention Cameron followed suit and we were reprimanded by one of the workers, embarrassing. Who knew that this one act of stupidity would lead to a conversation with the worker/dolphin trainer. She noticed that we were all wearing our 'Miles for Madey' fun/run t-shirts. She asked about them and Michelle tearfully explained that it was the two month anniversary of Madey's passing and we were on this trip to fulfill one of her wishes, to pet a dolphin. Before we knew it we were quietly ushered into the dolphin feeding area where the trainer got a bucket of fish and began feeding three very active dolphins, Jen, Starky, and Tiger. She got the dolphins to slide up on a ledge so that we could take turns petting them, it was amazing and so fun to hear the excited laughter of the family. Then out of nowhere one of the dolphins, Jen, splashed Michelle, and then stopped and just stared at her. There was no doubt that Madey was with us, and the playful behavior of a dolphin reminded us of the playful nature of Madey. Several scenes from the past returned to our minds, scenes of Madey squirting a different victim each night with a syringe full of water, or her squirtgun camera she had purchased at All A Dollar, all the while laughing because she got you. We left Sea World that night with grateful hearts, realizing there really are no accidents. Whether it comes in the form of being stuck on a ride, missing a show, or a long line at a dolphin feeding area, tender mercies are all around us, just waiting for us to recognize them.<br />We were only able to take this trip because of the kindness of others, we were blessed by the kindness of others all week. From the amazing staff at Make A Wish to the incredible people at Give Kids the World, to a dolphin trainer named Katie, and three area high schools who texted to bless our family. We anticipate the blessings of paying it forward as we strive to be difference makers, like Madey and so many of you....<br />Madey, your star will always shine on cloud 9 row 1 star 7 </div></div></div></div></div>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-57347610514442510862011-01-12T15:03:00.000-08:002011-01-12T15:13:10.060-08:00Missing Madeline<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUIlq_iTd44yUcMNJtmguRpvMdXnhsctqzZB5ZH2ufRrCPolenzVfQJGFawgvd9DQgM7FaKqmpa9oDk4ptj2XCSm2MOfgiwd-5jw6wBwjBYrDIn-RTlEnI3oRZFdfUJEcqzJRKomp57O5I/s1600/RLT_9114-2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUIlq_iTd44yUcMNJtmguRpvMdXnhsctqzZB5ZH2ufRrCPolenzVfQJGFawgvd9DQgM7FaKqmpa9oDk4ptj2XCSm2MOfgiwd-5jw6wBwjBYrDIn-RTlEnI3oRZFdfUJEcqzJRKomp57O5I/s320/RLT_9114-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561441242854367586" border="0" /></a><br />On Tuesday January 11th our sweet Madey was taken home to her Heavenly Father. She courageously battled cancer, Ewing's Sarcoma, and was and is an inspiration to all of us. We have often felt that Madey was sent to earth to be a difference maker. She has inspired and helped many on this difficult journey and we will be forever grateful that she is our daughter, our sister, and our friend. We are also grateful that life doesn't begin with birth nor end with death.<br />A viewing is scheduled for Friday January 14th from 6-8 pm at Lindquist Mortuary in Layton, Funeral services will be help Saturday January 15th at 11:00 am at the Fairfield LDS Chapel 380 S. Fairfield rd. There will be a short viewing prior to the service from 9:30-10:30 am.<br /><br />We wish to express our love and gratitude to all those who have loved and supported Madey with your faith, prayers, and your kindness. We love you.Slaughter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04981267737597091999noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-46279255586697154412010-12-31T16:03:00.000-08:002010-12-31T20:05:32.901-08:00Looking Back - Leaning Forward<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJobpogl-EjGoEPXlrlBsP63SRW-2jfLSRM58Mt76KkEtidUj79nHZ7DWFDPW7BpdctsKzCA42eYi7HQueeK_AFTOocVCKar5K2mSKbDajfZ4-z-i0JQ33ByX8wfPSHbhWo85yCFtvuHs/s1600/RLT_9171.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 160px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557063592440369010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJobpogl-EjGoEPXlrlBsP63SRW-2jfLSRM58Mt76KkEtidUj79nHZ7DWFDPW7BpdctsKzCA42eYi7HQueeK_AFTOocVCKar5K2mSKbDajfZ4-z-i0JQ33ByX8wfPSHbhWo85yCFtvuHs/s200/RLT_9171.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xR4733hArOlE5TRgqIkdgYeCMKywvBOkQYzOyOFM6UvBX5fAyFddwxsKLyihBEhDAQB_UhZiXXW1Zic7phJcwpRHCScbE9WWRkAYe_UMBQszlQRVvETJu4jv9eWlEC-BVW5XP_LurHs/s1600/RLT_9114-2.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 133px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557063585434903506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xR4733hArOlE5TRgqIkdgYeCMKywvBOkQYzOyOFM6UvBX5fAyFddwxsKLyihBEhDAQB_UhZiXXW1Zic7phJcwpRHCScbE9WWRkAYe_UMBQszlQRVvETJu4jv9eWlEC-BVW5XP_LurHs/s200/RLT_9114-2.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJbDEFII0q6Y2gEzYGuUIogPkwTaMwIydO4PWhVKDtUYF1mjlCvfCwnCk5XMLwYUg1oRBqPOdVCHSoN8oT7HcUku1T3eKzrPQKHUXHK_t4ynvHl5vUEqQZPeoNWY1MD0pc1AB2qrcVVM/s1600/Slaughter+fam.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 160px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557063579519598274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJbDEFII0q6Y2gEzYGuUIogPkwTaMwIydO4PWhVKDtUYF1mjlCvfCwnCk5XMLwYUg1oRBqPOdVCHSoN8oT7HcUku1T3eKzrPQKHUXHK_t4ynvHl5vUEqQZPeoNWY1MD0pc1AB2qrcVVM/s200/Slaughter+fam.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Where to begin...December seems like a blur. With all of the wedding preparations and the usual hustle and bustle of the Christmas season it seems like time has once again slipped quickly away from us. We will start with the wedding...what a great day! Lindy and Cameron were married on December 18th in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. It was a cold day, but we were definitely kept warm by support and love of family and friends. It was especially awesome because Madey was feeling good enough to come to the Temple and she also participated in the wedding dinner and pictures. Lindy was a beautiful bride and Cameron cleans up pretty good too. It was heart warming to see so many family members in attendance, thanks especially to those that traveled long distances to attend. Lindy And Cam are now living in Logan UT, and will start back to school at Utah State in January.<br />In addition to the wedding we really enjoyed Christmas. We had a memorable Christmas Eve with all of the children in attendance. Landon and Hillary helped us review the Christmas story from Luke 2 and we enjoyed the warm feelings that come as you take time to think of the birth of our Savior. We also laughed a lot as everyone shared their Christmas memories, it was heart warming to hear all of the kids stories about Christmas's past, even about the 'regular orange and a peach too.' Christmas day did not disappoint either. Hillary started waking people up around 7 am, once we got everyone into the living room and Madey settled into her lazy boy recliner we began opening gifts. It was sure fun to see peoples reactions to their gifts. I think everyone got something they wanted and there was a definite feeling of gratitude present. I am always amazed at the good feelings that accompany Christmas and the giving and receiving of gifts. We were especially blessed by many Christmas elves who took a special interest in our family this year and shared timely gifts that will help ease the burden of our battle with cancer.<br />With all of the good feelings of the holidays still in our hearts, we were again reminded that we cannot escape the challenges of mortality. Madeline has been experiencing more pain than normal lately and having difficulty walking without assistance. We met with her Dr. on Thursday and found that the chemotherapy treatments she has been undergoing are not working. Madeline's cancer has continued to grow and advanced to the point that any treatment she has from here on out will be solely for temporary relief of pain. We are obviously heartbroken and disappointed. The unfairness of it all feels at moments as if it will crush us, and yet we find comfort in our family, our friends, and our faith. Thursday morning before we met with the Dr. Madey wanted to have prayer with us, in the prayer she was promised that we would receive answers to her lingering questions even if those answers were not in line with our personal desires. The answers were definitely not in line with what we want, but we know that God has a plan, and that each of us are part of that plan. Although we don't understand our role in that plan right now, the time will come when we will. We also know that regardless of what happens our family is an eternal family. Our hearts are hurting, and yet we still laugh, we still smile, we still play, we still plan, and most importantly we are still comforted by the love we have for each other and the pure love that God has for each of us.<br />We wish you all the happiest of New Year's, and thank you for the many prayers, gifts, hugs, smiles, and warm wishes you have sent our way this year. </div></div></div>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-42189063828563067132010-12-11T15:13:00.000-08:002010-12-11T16:37:53.766-08:00Getting Ready for the Holidays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGfOeCX5FvQmaa6EzGVWKGG_nDrl-PyX42H_h74X-m7YKvIcXxTiHEve5v8a9sBvJ1tQMfB3aS25Y2Z7U1gO-OLhD0KuzKXYVXi95OMD644-fAJnH4ra-CbSaVYJ_hONnuYSt1ZewEmQ/s1600/1206001704.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGfOeCX5FvQmaa6EzGVWKGG_nDrl-PyX42H_h74X-m7YKvIcXxTiHEve5v8a9sBvJ1tQMfB3aS25Y2Z7U1gO-OLhD0KuzKXYVXi95OMD644-fAJnH4ra-CbSaVYJ_hONnuYSt1ZewEmQ/s200/1206001704.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549588424555885890" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd0ROcbMEscC9OFT2hd9KduG1aQ4hxRBiN0M2qqc7UFOcOw6T7oC0kAvVCfXdOJXBBV-64AtD3V_x-A3uNdv_K5oLcoh1Qw9LEAEy00eE7Exwd4uzsGqA5zvCOeTAQCBhykksQhdbBF78/s1600/1206001704a.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd0ROcbMEscC9OFT2hd9KduG1aQ4hxRBiN0M2qqc7UFOcOw6T7oC0kAvVCfXdOJXBBV-64AtD3V_x-A3uNdv_K5oLcoh1Qw9LEAEy00eE7Exwd4uzsGqA5zvCOeTAQCBhykksQhdbBF78/s200/1206001704a.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549588412123191586" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVWeXVtYHMvgk-N8j0d-NjU8CFmI_jqqFzahqJ2TRaScceuYwpRfx_rbOyUdc5hRlBJ4G4v0D7KHUB8lSlsu4AuI4Y2ao6TpaG0ZLtao5lTljxHySdR7NZK47GtkpJRFLtRoVp_Btsjw/s1600/temple+square.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 152px; float: left; height: 188px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549582531071723154" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVWeXVtYHMvgk-N8j0d-NjU8CFmI_jqqFzahqJ2TRaScceuYwpRfx_rbOyUdc5hRlBJ4G4v0D7KHUB8lSlsu4AuI4Y2ao6TpaG0ZLtao5lTljxHySdR7NZK47GtkpJRFLtRoVp_Btsjw/s200/temple+square.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Wow, where does the time go? We made it happily through Thanksgiving and started off December with a new type of Chemotherapy. So far Madey seems to be handling it well, she does have to take a type of steriod during the second week which causes her muscles to ache and seems to make her a bit weak. She goes to clinic once a week for an outpatient treatment, after two treatments we get a week break before starting another cycle. Once she has completed 3 cycles we will run more scans to see how it is impacting her cancer. We feel like we are on the right track. We love having her at home and being able to spend time together as a family. Madey misses regular interaction with her friends and is grateful for those that still text and visit her. It is hard trying to be a normal teenager under abnormal conditions, I guess it allows her to become better friends with her siblings. </div><br /><div>We have been working on the final wedding preparations for Lindy and Cam. We made it a girls day out and went to watch the bridal shoot in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Lindy looked beautiful, and Cam wasn't to bad either... </div><br /><div>After a transfusion on Friday, we were able to go with the youth in our ward to look at the lights on Temple Square. It was fun to bundle up and let Madey's friends take control for awhile and ooh and ahh at the wonderful sights and sounds of Christmas. </div><br /><div>Madey, like the rest of us, is really looking forward to Christmas. The tree is up and George actually put lights on the house this year, something he has neglected for the last couple of years, mostly because of his dislike of high places. We are also anticipating Lindy and Cameron's wedding which is only a week away. It will be a very different holiday with a married child trying to start her own holiday traditions. </div><br /><div>Once Landon and Hillary get out of school this week I think all we will need for Christmas will be snow! Which Madey prays for daily...</div>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-48717482418891905192010-11-27T19:55:00.000-08:002010-11-27T20:27:47.151-08:00Giving ThanksIts been about a month since we updated the blog. I suppose there are several reasons for that, the main one being that a little over two weeks ago Madeline contracted a bacterial infection that put her in the hospital, three of the those days we were in the ICU trying to figure out which combination of antibiotics would fight the infection. During her stay the doctors removed Madey's port, concerned it was the source of the infection and replaced it with a picc line. she was able to come home on a series of IV antibiotics. Now that we have her home she is recovering and getting stronger, we are hopeful that her blood counts will be strong enough that she can begin out patient chemotherapy, which will hopefully shrink her tumors and give her relief from the pain she has been experiencing.<br />In the midst of all this we have still found it possible to continue with life. Landon turned 12 on the 12th of November and was ordained a deacon the following Sunday. Madey made it to Sacrament Meeting where we all witnessed Landon passing the Sacrament for the first time, we were all proud of him, I think we are still in shock that he is old enough to be a deacon. <br />Lindy still informs us daily of the the countdown until she and Cameron are married on the 18th of December and Hillary finally got her application to BYU all sent in, now we wait to hear about scholarships.<br />We enjoyed Thanksgiving, not just the day, but the feelings of gratitude we experience on a regular basis, for all that we have been blessed with. Its easy to focus solely on our trials and the things we miss, but there is nothing like the feelings that come when we take time to count our blessings. It may seem like a little thing to some, but the day after Thanksgiving, Madey was feeling good enough to take in a movie with the family. We went and saw Megamind and really had a nice time being out and being together. Its amazing how such a simple thing as a family movie can be taken for granted.<br />We are grateful for everyday we have with our family and for the blessings of eternal families made possible by Jesus Christ and His gospel. Happy Thanksgiving to all! And thanks to all of you that bless our family with your kindness, faith and prayers.Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-151441792346568352010-10-28T17:05:00.000-07:002010-10-28T17:46:43.725-07:00Detours, Directions, & DiscouragementWith the year round road construction that happens in the state of Utah, we have become very familiar with the Detour sign. Its one that can cause tremendous frustration as well as delayed arrival to a desired destination. It can also give someone the opportunity to travel roads and see sights that they may have missed had they hurried on their way. It appears that we have just run into one of those signs in regards to Madeline's treatment. For a little over a week Madey has been experiencing some unexplained back pain. As she checked into the hospital Monday, to take care of her next chemo treatment, the doctor thought it would be a good idea for Madey to have an MRI, the result was another tumor. Most likely the same type of tumor she had in her pelvis, this time it is attached to one of her vertebrae. Our detour has led us back to the Huntsman Cancer Institute for five radiation treatments that will hopefully reduce the size of the tumor and provide relief to Madeline's back. Madey had her first radiation treatment on Wednesday. She received a lot of hugs from the employees there, they missed her amazing smile, but were sad to see her return under these circumstances. After she finishes radiation we will wait a couple of weeks and then run more scans before meeting with doctors to determine the best route for our continued journey.<br />Like most detours this one has been discouraging and unwanted, but as we move forward in the journey we know that there will be new sights and experiences that will hopefully enhance our trip. Its okay from time to time to get off the beaten path and look around, their might be an unexplored waterfall, a new landscape, or even a Moose.<br />While talking to Madey about her feelings, she said "it feels a lot like a hike we took while camping at Tony Grove a few years ago, every time I got tired you told me to keep walking because the lake might be just around the next bend and what a shame if we quit now and miss it. Once we reached the top of the mountain we realized we had to still climb down the mountain and through the valley...it was a long hike. " We eventually found the lake, it was pretty and worth the hike, mostly because we were all hiking together. The walk back had its challenges but since we knew the path and where it led we were more than happy to walk it.<br />We continue to have faith, hope, and courage and we walk this under explored trail. But we know that with the faith and prayers of others we will be strengthened, supported, and lifted on our journey.Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-7186786471987624042010-10-05T06:51:00.000-07:002010-10-05T16:24:05.510-07:00Finally Seeing the Light<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZP_h0-EYExQtSIGYTvdDpI4u-5ksyyS3CLv6PQM9xDMT_IXeYoo-DaH9tTe9hVPKfWqcJEjKQvIv_qT-tc-ejfY2S1orA2TH7Ix3cvHngokXOMAdlX2szyscBRyGy0V5ZZE9Y1v_Dxp4l/s1600/pool.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZP_h0-EYExQtSIGYTvdDpI4u-5ksyyS3CLv6PQM9xDMT_IXeYoo-DaH9tTe9hVPKfWqcJEjKQvIv_qT-tc-ejfY2S1orA2TH7Ix3cvHngokXOMAdlX2szyscBRyGy0V5ZZE9Y1v_Dxp4l/s320/pool.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524706260463784562" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0kEObrln4-MgNBuF9gNtIsumQ9ngdgi544BMC2dX5lFxXI2a3nMqqXTL1ER4OsqXiW067H63KkKH7zhJwZQibV1DrhIDg3KLvilMWAq7h6LXmdr49szRaW0QAv6wKYBzNi-bdcfBH05k/s1600/picnic.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0kEObrln4-MgNBuF9gNtIsumQ9ngdgi544BMC2dX5lFxXI2a3nMqqXTL1ER4OsqXiW067H63KkKH7zhJwZQibV1DrhIDg3KLvilMWAq7h6LXmdr49szRaW0QAv6wKYBzNi-bdcfBH05k/s320/picnic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524706253929140530" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-juRC8fS2BJrcW2yvR-oZnLxICtTqDT1BAFDOwk78xjRGxG3LgV9Nza7-RClTlgCipp9zS8U1DOmo0AsV8Cc00vUA7SmG8EoPEnVI3X3bFDMwC6XerFJj7HRcX1he3sxGZlcJhmub8aK/s1600/avery.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-juRC8fS2BJrcW2yvR-oZnLxICtTqDT1BAFDOwk78xjRGxG3LgV9Nza7-RClTlgCipp9zS8U1DOmo0AsV8Cc00vUA7SmG8EoPEnVI3X3bFDMwC6XerFJj7HRcX1he3sxGZlcJhmub8aK/s320/avery.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524706248202688898" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBO3zgWGSESY4WGttaUt6DPIM7gYJ8goTFKqWoGyEovy74thJ7uIzI4SHC1Iccghvtk-hZhen0cNxHYq34AVmhMROKdSvCX38xpkaY0FetrOWqPjNr4GsW-Yd-6nRF8yEPFxTygMatwTYs/s1600/bluehair.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBO3zgWGSESY4WGttaUt6DPIM7gYJ8goTFKqWoGyEovy74thJ7uIzI4SHC1Iccghvtk-hZhen0cNxHYq34AVmhMROKdSvCX38xpkaY0FetrOWqPjNr4GsW-Yd-6nRF8yEPFxTygMatwTYs/s320/bluehair.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524706234395890642" border="0" /></a><br />Madey just completed chemo treatment number 12, that means we only have two left! I think the only thing that would make her smile more is knowing she was already done. But enduring to the end is part of the plan and so we continue. It was sure nice to get her home for General Conference weekend. Madey and Michelle watched the first two sessions in the hospital but were able to come home about the time George left for Priesthood. It was a wonderful weekend, not only to listen to the words and counsel of living Prophets and Apostles, but be surrounded by our children and feel that sense of peace that comes from having everyone together, there really is no feeling quite like it. <div>Life hasn't been all about hospital visits and trials as of late. We were able to take the family to Logan a couple of weeks ago where we spent time swimming, picnicking, and attending church with Lindy @ her student ward. It was sure fun to see our kids playing in the hotel pool together, Madey especially had a great time with her little cousin Avery. As usual she felt at home and 'normal' in the water. Madey also took time to go to Utah county with George to visit her Grandma Slaughter and attend the BYU vs. Nevada game. It was a lot of fun being back at the stadium eating popcorn and cheering for the Cougars, even if they aren't very good (tear). Part way through the game Madey asked George to buy her some blue hair, he told her only if she wore it for the rest of the game, so they wandered down to the Cougar Den and found her a wig of blue hair, which she wore proudly for the remainder of the game. </div><div>It has been a long journey which isn't quite done yet, but we can see the glow of the light at the end of the tunnel and we are so grateful for the goodness of God, His healing hand, and the blessings of family and friends that continue to demonstrate their love and support for us in so many ways. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks </div>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-90567219133989830482010-09-16T15:33:00.000-07:002010-09-16T16:13:21.828-07:00Madey, Music, and MiraclesThere are ups and downs to everything we do in life and the answers we seek are not always the answers we get. Sometimes we go into an experience with a certain well defined expectation both for ourselves and the Lord and come away with something not completely unfamiliar of what we had in mind. And yet there is still rejoicing for the all encompassing goodness of God.<br />Last Friday and Saturday Madey received her 11th Chemo treatment (only 3 more to go!) she also had an MRI, CT Scan, and Bone Density scan done to determine what is going on in this battle with cancer. Here is what we learned, Madey's pelvic bone and hip area where the cancer did the most damage is re-growing itself and the blood flow to that area has increased. The cancer continues to shrink and will shrink even more with the final 3 Chemo treatments. There is still an affected area in her pelvis, but due to the radiation and chemo that area is inactive. So what does that mean? It means that once Madey is done with these last 3 chemo sessions she is done (Yeah Baby!). Doctors will continue to monitor the affected area by doing scans every 3 months, but chances are the cancer will remain inactive but Madey will not! As soon as she gets clearance she would like to start training to get herself in shape to play softball and basketball.<br />Madey continues to have positive experiences and be a positive example to those around her. A week or so ago she attended her seminary class, inspite of her teacher (dad), and since it was early in the term students were asked to bring to class an item that helps define who they are. Madey chose to bring her guitar and sing for her class. It was quite an awesome site as this cute sophmore girl with no hair, unzipped her guitar case, introduced herself, and began playing a favorite Taylor Swift song for kids she hardly knew. There was quite the feeling of awe in the room, and the applause after was both genuine and heart felt. George has said several times since then, "I wish I'd had my video camera." The comments from the other students were awesome, one girl said, "I don't even like Taylor Swift, but you are amazing!"<br />We are well aware that there is still more to do for full healing and recovery, but we are grateful for how far Madey has come and encouraged as we run the last few miles of this mararthon. We are so thankful for all the love, support, and prayers of so many.Slaughter Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04981267737597091999noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-48095050156156927852010-08-29T14:56:00.000-07:002010-08-29T15:26:06.271-07:00Four More - -<span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;">We seem to be in countdown mode, only four more chemo sessions for Madey! (can I get a whoot whoot!) Although there is still much for her to endure we feel like we are finally beginning to see the proverbial 'light at the end of the tunnel'. Madey completed her 10th chemo treatment a week ago Friday. It was a long 5 day stay and her recovery time at home was short lived. She began feeling sick last week and by Wednesday evening was running a fever of about 103 degrees. Which meant we got to go to the emergency room. They kept Madey at Primary Children's until Saturday afternoon, she is now home resting and receiving 'mom care' which is the best care. We hope to get her feeling well enough to attend some school, in the meantime she will continue to do her assignments from home.<br />While Madey and Michelle were in the hospital, George and Landon went on a campout with the 11year old scouts. They left Friday about 3:30 pm and headed up Ogden canyon to spend the night. There were 3 leaders and 4 boys. Around 5:45 pm, the boys had just finished setting up their tents and George along with one of the other leaders (Mitch) were trying to string up a tarp to keep the rain off everyone, when Mitch hurt his ankle. After hobbling over to the picnic table and getting seated to rest his leg, the wind began to blow and one of the boys tents began to fly away, several of the boys who had been sitting next to Mitch ran after the tent, George went to help them. A micro burst of wind came whistling though the camp and George looked up as he heard a loud crack and saw the top of a cottonwood tree snap off and begin to fall, he yelled "look out" when the large portion of tree crashed down on Mitch's head and narrowly missed Landon. Part of the tree was full of bees which began stinging George, Mitch, and some of the boys, I think Landon was stung twice, while George received about 8 stings. The boys hurriedly climbed into one of the tents to wait out the storm, while George and the other leader Rob, lifted the tree off Mitch. They then put Mitch in the suburban and Rob drove him closer to Pineview where he was met by EMS from Ogden City and Weber county, they then transported Mitch to the hospital where he received 4 staples in his head. If you want to see pictures you can view Mitch's blog at the bottom of this post. After Rob left with Mitch, George went to check on the boys in their tent, when he asked them how they were doing they replied by telling him they had been sharing happy thoughts about Brother Dorius and taking turns offering prayers for him. Needless to say George had a hard time not crying because of the innocent and faithful gestures of these young scouts. Not only was the campout a small disaster, but the boys still need to meet their scout requirement for sleeping in a tent.<br />We hope for a less eventful week, but continue to be grateful for the many blessings we enjoy in our lives because of the Gospel of Christ and the many people that watch out for our family.<br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.mitchandstacie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://www.mitchandstacie.<wbr>blogspot.com/</a>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-11083517783607582992010-08-15T09:02:00.001-07:002010-08-15T14:39:27.860-07:00Treatment Timeout<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNj0N-qpOTurv7pznt0PWr-HIqGRij6gwcG7rFbFKL4ZxEU2hKTZKvTugLN-8sC_VUA5iEOwqNC26-Zr-y2JDSMytJjhqF02D9Tb9ibfjI5vwN_g2KviFjzndPIbYtP4GnbnAx50rUnOZ/s1600/YS+Sign.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNj0N-qpOTurv7pznt0PWr-HIqGRij6gwcG7rFbFKL4ZxEU2hKTZKvTugLN-8sC_VUA5iEOwqNC26-Zr-y2JDSMytJjhqF02D9Tb9ibfjI5vwN_g2KviFjzndPIbYtP4GnbnAx50rUnOZ/s320/YS+Sign.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505752082761502674" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSHibKBNToQFB-DYxFyErd0qLXB0ALfKwD3AktAfQVS3pJE-S4kLFgQ4O9A5lMQSh9O7j65qu7B3Z9PEzPi7daUDH7EJ5IVlnDucttwt-PGoY2IbxEZPJuzFJoG1qNTesJjrTNjnTF4W_/s1600/Mesa+Falls.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSHibKBNToQFB-DYxFyErd0qLXB0ALfKwD3AktAfQVS3pJE-S4kLFgQ4O9A5lMQSh9O7j65qu7B3Z9PEzPi7daUDH7EJ5IVlnDucttwt-PGoY2IbxEZPJuzFJoG1qNTesJjrTNjnTF4W_/s320/Mesa+Falls.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505752075519790690" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHlw3MmL9eeXEKoeUG1MyQvwG-gg0UDZiBiGjtRKSqq_T-Ai4LGoXwKVKEdKivqr_CbfRweJvJA-OXPxQXeluLIldwQaquynLf6ew032Wi9SnQyH3RYv_WFaBU0usQfGb81VtPR-KOoVS/s1600/Madey+Cabin.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHlw3MmL9eeXEKoeUG1MyQvwG-gg0UDZiBiGjtRKSqq_T-Ai4LGoXwKVKEdKivqr_CbfRweJvJA-OXPxQXeluLIldwQaquynLf6ew032Wi9SnQyH3RYv_WFaBU0usQfGb81VtPR-KOoVS/s320/Madey+Cabin.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505752068589947906" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs-zOH6Y0Fw6GO-1mbdkDFlYpH1ju_XUvd4fY6b18q9vK9SmF9U3srwN2q5SXxYAP9uEN5zj-yiAl_Tuso1y5X_akR4mjZaE2iAk4_R6WV6XcsSgR36C5-lqkkykBZRABwiouxB2MgT_9c/s1600/yellowstone+fam.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs-zOH6Y0Fw6GO-1mbdkDFlYpH1ju_XUvd4fY6b18q9vK9SmF9U3srwN2q5SXxYAP9uEN5zj-yiAl_Tuso1y5X_akR4mjZaE2iAk4_R6WV6XcsSgR36C5-lqkkykBZRABwiouxB2MgT_9c/s320/yellowstone+fam.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505752061804076402" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /> After completing 31 radiation treatments, and another session of chemotherapy we decided it was time for a break. We loaded up the suburban and took the family to Island Park, ID and spent some time fishing, floating the river, exploring Yellowstone National Park, and of course poking sticks in the campfire. It was a nice break and time seemed to stand still while we were there. Wildlife viewing was great, we saw about 7 Moose in Island Park, lots of Elk and Bison in Yellowstone, and a bald eagle fishing near us on the river. It was a lot of fun to watch the kids taking pictures and laughing in the car, it actually felt like we were normal again. George's nephew was a great tour guide and we are grateful to George's brother for the use of his cabin, I don't think we could have made the trip other wise. We also really enjoyed being with other family members while we were there. If you noticed and extra human in the pictures, that is Lindy's fiance Cameron, yes we are planning a wedding in the midst of all of this (As if it wasn't crazy enough already). All joking aside, he is a nice guy and we are very happy for the two of them.<br /></div><br /><br /><div>When we got back it was time for a little reality check, Madey and Hillary went to the High School and picked up their class schedules and had yearbook pictures taken, there is definitely some nervous excitement on Madey's part about starting High School and still trying to finish cancer treatments. So far the school has been great to work with. George will meet with all of her teachers next week so they are aware of Madey's situation. With all of that taken care of Madey received a blood transfusion on Friday and will start her next round of Chemotherapy on Monday the 16th of August, it will most likely sideline her for first week of school, but we know with each passing treatment we are that much closer to finishing this fight and helping Madey become cancer free. </div>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-3360381869327239112010-07-19T08:31:00.000-07:002010-07-19T08:50:33.374-07:00Still Fighting Forward,After our fun adventure on the 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> of July to see Carrie Underwood and the Stadium of Fire we were reminded that we still have cancer and we are still undergoing treatment. With the combination of radiation and chemotherapy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Madey</span> began to get blisters and sores on her body, the chemo had made her skin more sensitive to the radiation. As a result of all this, her blood counts got pretty low and she began running a fever which meant we were once again being admitted to the hospital. It was a very difficult stay, not just for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Madey</span> but also her parents, and I think a few members of the hospital staff. There seemed to be one trial right after another and much of the trial came in the form of too many chiefs and not enough <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Indians</span>. It seemed as if we were constantly at odds with some of our nurses and doctors about the best method of treatment for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Madey</span> during this 48 hour stay. Suffice it to say, there were some pretty amazing tender mercies that not only allowed <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Madey</span> to get the care she needed, but also to provide her parents with the peace of mind they needed to continue to fight forward. The Lord knows who we are and what we are going through, but I am still amazed at how often he uses ordinary people to make miracles happen in our lives.<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Madey</span> is feeling much better now, she has been home for a week and has been able to continue her radiation treatments without difficulty. She even felt good enough this last Friday to go to the movie "Despicable Me" with the family. It was nice to get out again and do something normal. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Madey</span> only has 6 more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">radiation</span> treatments after today and she is so excited...<br />Today is also <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Madey's</span> Birthday! She was so excited last night to have her grandparents and other family members over to the house to celebrate and eat cake and ice cream. This morning she woke up to balloons, confetti, and streamers placed in the yard by friends over night, it is a sweet reminder of the many people that love and support her, Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-69916225121776777502010-07-04T18:03:00.000-07:002010-07-06T06:50:16.595-07:00Fun Fireworks & Carrie Underwood!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3zHoghga9DQsUUxlZxLmOoEZspWmHKKPY3R0vf4qxYmNrSOfdAl3k-2xBFR1apZldR6eCzGpiUOihmjW5KNaf7yqTJwC0sZtOJuHjd_0M82RdDWqSHyyj8cpRpkN3PP74WKKsV98h34/s1600/dscn4509.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490224884931907842" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3zHoghga9DQsUUxlZxLmOoEZspWmHKKPY3R0vf4qxYmNrSOfdAl3k-2xBFR1apZldR6eCzGpiUOihmjW5KNaf7yqTJwC0sZtOJuHjd_0M82RdDWqSHyyj8cpRpkN3PP74WKKsV98h34/s200/dscn4509.jpg" border="0" /></a>Well it has sure been a crazy couple of weeks. Madeline started radiation 3 weeks ago, the first two weeks were pretty uneventful. On the 3rd week, she underwent simultaneous chemotherapy and radiation for <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1z-Xtz44YI0LaD7kiAfMIFoAAii2FjMayiUaGnLbE4jjqsouAUO-BbfNYdpGggT9J9G_C4nVQdP_AM3YUokU5DErm3E6iC03v9jjUIiy-iiPPW1LdZhDbwr9xH1tRRK2-DEWs-sC6ow/s1600/dscn4500.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490224881514864178" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1z-Xtz44YI0LaD7kiAfMIFoAAii2FjMayiUaGnLbE4jjqsouAUO-BbfNYdpGggT9J9G_C4nVQdP_AM3YUokU5DErm3E6iC03v9jjUIiy-iiPPW1LdZhDbwr9xH1tRRK2-DEWs-sC6ow/s200/dscn4500.jpg" border="0" /></a>5 days. The two together have made her nauseous and uncomfortable. But we still managed to pull off a short family outing to the Stadium of Fire, <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlrVqd_hf7gNE_d4VhpPbVM0y0TSEsJyLjE3ioyLXESi7TtqVsONEaG7-ZNuBsL7mRU4nT7B0DKiRtXtzNm_VINaAAB-t2lly6m5C2eBpaksXKEKQZFZe1mDhjRCrUy8DIzltrpVxOY0/s1600/dscn4455.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490224869936740354" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlrVqd_hf7gNE_d4VhpPbVM0y0TSEsJyLjE3ioyLXESi7TtqVsONEaG7-ZNuBsL7mRU4nT7B0DKiRtXtzNm_VINaAAB-t2lly6m5C2eBpaksXKEKQZFZe1mDhjRCrUy8DIzltrpVxOY0/s200/dscn4455.jpg" border="0" /></a>and not only see great fireworks, but also see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Madey's</span> favorite country singer and George's celebrity crush, Carrie Underwood. It was an amazing show, both Carrie and the fireworks, but mostly seeing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Madey's</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8uyfZbatMeFGnx1nZNWiR9mein6k-EEmibX-AUdCqBbCelrUdgAwk9yvw06wj9QnKaT-MMugU1SU0eR0nMV9vphLSHb9jTGtlO83enwIvyc6o6sKQHRMD7bzgRVXD6t6kOt6Mm9NkKk/s1600/dscn4457.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490224856448231634" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8uyfZbatMeFGnx1nZNWiR9mein6k-EEmibX-AUdCqBbCelrUdgAwk9yvw06wj9QnKaT-MMugU1SU0eR0nMV9vphLSHb9jTGtlO83enwIvyc6o6sKQHRMD7bzgRVXD6t6kOt6Mm9NkKk/s200/dscn4457.jpg" border="0" /></a>adorable smile. After the show, George got us all lost finding his way back to the hotel, but we soon found our way and had every one bedded down for a hotel slumber party. After returning home, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Madey</span> has spent most of her time recovering from our excursion and the continued side-effects of chemo and radiation. She only has 12 more days of radiation left...we can't wait! Michelle has been especially busy taking <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Madey</span> on her daily drive to Huntsman for the procedure, she is an amazing example of Christ like love in our home.<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Madey</span> continues to get stronger, but we are still in need of your many prayers on her behalf. May God bless all of you especially as we celebrate the freedoms of our great nation.Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-82861509879029459762010-06-08T16:28:00.000-07:002010-06-08T17:09:20.319-07:00Wishes Come True...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRCsOmvx_WDsiKnoAFOjme_csemAfCp2GOSd7y_s2olh-WNm0_BENx62TlBq9ijgQ6zJOypf0xcNygNOygcFRpdvsPxGkMBWC8jxxExFFYCbgOUx-T-gVoXtJAdy4gt2ujhXFwxkDkt0/s1600/dscn4435_00.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRCsOmvx_WDsiKnoAFOjme_csemAfCp2GOSd7y_s2olh-WNm0_BENx62TlBq9ijgQ6zJOypf0xcNygNOygcFRpdvsPxGkMBWC8jxxExFFYCbgOUx-T-gVoXtJAdy4gt2ujhXFwxkDkt0/s200/dscn4435_00.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480550047281521938" border="0" /></a>It has been a busy couple of weeks! One of Madey's wishes was to be able to attend the last week of school and be a part of all the fun<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVaJBy6nLnj6tnzt8oLtz2ErdZRCT_rBfizjW0EVsHmo__-eZr1Dr9mHC4dS4Go_Kq2xd3wrEFz3xywrb_ojP_xbb64dCTMTZ5P2UQr1OMTVgCF3YdBFS_jV3gazF2o8bw0llguc6chw/s1600/dscn4427.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 219px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVaJBy6nLnj6tnzt8oLtz2ErdZRCT_rBfizjW0EVsHmo__-eZr1Dr9mHC4dS4Go_Kq2xd3wrEFz3xywrb_ojP_xbb64dCTMTZ5P2UQr1OMTVgCF3YdBFS_jV3gazF2o8bw0llguc6chw/s200/dscn4427.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480550027085367810" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadrD4WiOJJOLTZyPENsZrN-JYun52521lorB90BrLjwFUgrxR-FgBXERh6rtdDvoe0arbKJPh02VnQmFQ_4970jkELYUphLoLZ8dQPhp7gow1pLs_lf9C63AOh0SzL55bNpKnrmYY7_g/s1600/dscn4425.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadrD4WiOJJOLTZyPENsZrN-JYun52521lorB90BrLjwFUgrxR-FgBXERh6rtdDvoe0arbKJPh02VnQmFQ_4970jkELYUphLoLZ8dQPhp7gow1pLs_lf9C63AOh0SzL55bNpKnrmYY7_g/s200/dscn4425.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480550016850901922" border="0" /></a><br />that happens when 9th grade is over. It took some convincing, but Michelle was very adamant that Madey be able to go. So we postponed chemo for a week, and what a week we had. From fishing with Grandpa, to a movie with her cousin Riely and her sister Hillary, to the 9th grade dance, to the closing assembly to the signing of yearbooks, and to top it off a party with friends, that included, volleyball, the trampoline, smores, and an outdoor movie. Madey thought that her week would be complete with all of these events, but there was one big surprise for her mixed in. A few months ago we met with the Make a Wish Foundation and Madey wished for a family trip to Florida. As part of the closing assembly, in front of all of her classmates, Prince Charming, pictured above, sought out "princess" Madeline with her missing slipper. With the help of the students at Fairfield Jr., they announced that "princess" Madey's wish had been granted. It was a really tender moment as her classmates gave her a standing ovation and honored her courage and bravery in this fight against cancer with their applause. It was definitely one of those moments that seemed frozen in time and the emotion of it all tugged on the strings of our hearts. All we can say is Thank You 'Make-a-Wish' and Thank You Fairfield Jr. High.<br />After all the fun died down late Friday night, reality began to set back in. Madey checked into the hospital early Saturday morning to begin her next session of Chemo, but the good memories of the last week seemed to carry her through and her spirit and attitude appeared to be unaffected. Now that this round of chemo is finished, Madey began the next phase of the battle today at the Huntsman Cancer Institute: radiation therapy. She is feeling tired, and starting to miss her friends, but she said the procedure was a piece of cake. She will continue with radiation for the next 6 weeks, with additional chemo treatments dispersed throughout. We know we still have a ways to go in our battle, but we are confident that through faith and prayer Madey will make a full recovery.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj093HbyhuPQcob6UzvF7xiYrIJvAuULGHgBsyOmkW7jOtPazNUh9pxR_bCsI1dHfSXBbc9IG_bwKW4vRWRnVgi327htULtabEuVcsRFX3Bv1RZOcjEhd8XIuXE9h19m_6vCV11ELg2xSE/s1600/dscn4432.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 307px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj093HbyhuPQcob6UzvF7xiYrIJvAuULGHgBsyOmkW7jOtPazNUh9pxR_bCsI1dHfSXBbc9IG_bwKW4vRWRnVgi327htULtabEuVcsRFX3Bv1RZOcjEhd8XIuXE9h19m_6vCV11ELg2xSE/s200/dscn4432.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480550040040702674" border="0" /></a>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-33287364594136390782010-05-24T12:01:00.000-07:002010-05-24T12:29:27.675-07:00Movie, Church, and a High Five.<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">It has been a couple of weeks since the blog has been updated, sorry, no excuses I just forgot. This week Madey has been feeling pretty good, she was able to attend the sports recognition night at Fairfield Jr. High, where she was honored as the "Most Inspirational" member of her team, it was fun to see her honored along with teammates she has played with for the last three years, congratulations to Megan, Cheyne, and Shelby for their accomplishments this year and thank you to all the girls for including Madey in spite of everything. Madey also got to go to the Movies Saturday night with her sisters and some friends, they had a blast. It was also a blessing for her to be able to attend the whole three hour block of church on Sunday as well, thanks to our Bishop and Aaronic Priesthood Young men for taking care of the sacrament for her. Its a blessing to have days when she can feel like a 'normal' kid again. We are now waiting for her blood counts to get better so she can do her next chemo treatment. After that we will work on a speedy recovery so that she can attend the last week of school and participate in assemblies, yearbook signing, and all of the other stuff that is monumentally important to a 14 year old girl. When that has concluded she will start radiation treatments at Huntsman for about 6 weeks, chemotherapy will run in conjunction with radiation. There will be lots of trips to Salt Lake, I think our car can find its way there on its own by now. We continue to be blessed and try to do our best to enjoy all that life has sent our way. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Michelle and also got the opportunity to get up extra early on Friday morning to be part of a KSL "High Five" for Staci Hardy along with the committee members that sponsored and organized the 5K FunRun MilesforMadey. Staci had been nominated by her mom and we wholeheartedly supported that nomination. She and her committee have been a tremendous blessing in our lives and it was a small gesture of gratitude on our part for being the beneficiaries of so much love and support. </span><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">We have learned in so many ways that it is the little things that count, whether it be having dinner together, smiling, laughing, attending church, or watching your kids race each other on the go carts at Boondocks. The little things matter! </span>Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-65643664482313165042010-05-10T13:01:00.000-07:002010-05-10T15:33:13.865-07:00Courage to Continue ChemoWe are still battling cancer and Madey still doesn't like being in the hospital. Friday her Oncologist met with us and told us that since her chemotherapy is having such a positive impact on the cancer cells in her hip, he recommends that she continue with her chemotherapy, in addition Madey will start receiving radiation treatments in conjunction with her chemo. The feeling is that the two together will be the best treatment for eradicating the tumor from Madey's hip. He also informed us that it appears from the scans that the bone in her hip has already begun to repair itself. We are thrilled with Madey's progress, but are a little discouraged knowing that we are still not quite half way done with her treatments. Madey knows it will be a long journey, but hopes that as she continues to improve she may be able to begin to participate in 'normal' activities again, like attending school or maybe going to girls camp. <br />Lindy is done with school for now and still working at America First Credit Union, she is a huge help when Mom and Dad are traveling back and forth to the hospital. Hillary has one more AP test to take and then she hopes to breath a little before starting a six week 8 credit chemistry course at the University of Utah this summer. Landon has been busy playing baseball (watching from the right field) his Red Sox team is 2 - 0 so far, he is also in the school musical this week, he plays President Roosevelt in the musical Annie. We look forward to watching his performance.<br />We definately feel blessed, the Lord is taking good care of us and we are continually surrounded by people that want to make a difference for Madey and our family. Thank you.Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-6175626387394488782010-05-04T13:21:00.000-07:002010-05-04T13:36:15.524-07:00Good News and GratitutdeLife is definitely a roller-coaster ride and for the last three and half months we feel like we have endured most of the twists and turns that could be thrown our way. From the lowest of lows to the highest of highs. We were so overwhelmed by the turn out two weekends ago for the MilesforMadey fun-run that we didn't know if we could feel more gratitude for amazing friends, family, neighbors, community and church members. From the messages of love and support, the prayers, the kind words and the meals we have received, it has been obvious that there are many good and generous people in the world that want to bless a 14 year old girl and her family. All we can say is thank you and do our best to be genuinely grateful for all the blessings our Heavenly Father gives us and work to pay it forward.<br />This last week we received some good news. Madey went to the hospital on Thursday and had several scans done to assess the effects of her treatment on her cancer. We were thrilled when Friday afternoon her oncologist called and told us that her tumor has been reduced by about 70%. Yahoo! We did the 'dance of joy' quite a site if you haven't seen it before, and were immediately filled with gratitude for the progress that Madey is making and the hope that this report gives to us. We know we are not done, but the news was definitely huge. Madey went to PCMC today to receive a blood transfusion and we are hopeful that she will have her final Chemo treatment of this series at the end of this week. Our cancer team is meeting on the results of her scans today to determine what our next course of action will be, please pray for her and for the doctors that they will make the right determination for the best possible results for Madey.Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-17209250943366223222010-04-26T19:28:00.000-07:002010-04-26T19:54:03.425-07:00<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnphJrajvTik68YYoQZ3xaymYzA4cE92nYpyjM9ited4ACtvKD_2zrwnPHqWxiCtInOt82ZJbWBzB0Xq2zyFm8_IIDMRBF-OHTu9UYvViUoaUVJF2rlYwTy7ewoCB0BrLEjIWtC21S8Tw/s1600/dscn4307.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnphJrajvTik68YYoQZ3xaymYzA4cE92nYpyjM9ited4ACtvKD_2zrwnPHqWxiCtInOt82ZJbWBzB0Xq2zyFm8_IIDMRBF-OHTu9UYvViUoaUVJF2rlYwTy7ewoCB0BrLEjIWtC21S8Tw/s200/dscn4307.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464639190174127730" border="0" /></a><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtox8XYUD7SKrrlUocFy8fHzrEcoUO0AyYh4hfKuQISM1Ed_mRU06X_oeOuAm4U9OLO0piGSgswsqPgKCBOlILJWikQtbxx87WpadaJ59zzjHayZTQRiI71bytKqah-aJT_0HhHoY-QI/s1600/dscn4299.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtox8XYUD7SKrrlUocFy8fHzrEcoUO0AyYh4hfKuQISM1Ed_mRU06X_oeOuAm4U9OLO0piGSgswsqPgKCBOlILJWikQtbxx87WpadaJ59zzjHayZTQRiI71bytKqah-aJT_0HhHoY-QI/s200/dscn4299.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464639180996433442" border="0" /></a>Getting Ready to Run! <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hn-AcH76thkj3XxCWgi829D3UVgKd6h7x_ECrK3n_mG8AIf-d09EF4DTrv8ljwgv_CFVdUuNt-drzCCEFnC7INvMKnP_d899d76Yuiau1mLNJBL9JLBps3JUvrhEFqo3UMzIlgwbePw/s1600/dscn4295.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hn-AcH76thkj3XxCWgi829D3UVgKd6h7x_ECrK3n_mG8AIf-d09EF4DTrv8ljwgv_CFVdUuNt-drzCCEFnC7INvMKnP_d899d76Yuiau1mLNJBL9JLBps3JUvrhEFqo3UMzIlgwbePw/s200/dscn4295.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464639176132062018" border="0" /></a>Wow! What a week! We are truly blessed to be surrounded by so many wonderful friends, family members, church and community members. On Saturday April 24th a 5K fun run was sponsored in Madey's honor, MilesforMadey. The attendance was unbelievable and the feelings of love and goodwill were contagious as was Madey's smile. The race started and ended at Fairfield Jr. High. I think the highlight for most was to see Madey as she stood in back of a pick up truck, thanks Chad, with a big grin on her face and sounded the air-horn to signal the start of the race. It was also great to have her sitting in the yard swing waving to all the runners as they passed by our house. George and Lindy had trained for the race and both set a goal to not only finish their first 5K but to do it without any walking, they both met their goal, although Lindy finished a little ahead of George, young legs run faster. We cannot even begin to thank all of the people that made this possible. But we do need to give a huge shout out to Stacy Hardy and Rick Smith for chairing this thing and making it happen, your whole committee is amazing! Madey had a wonderful day and although she was exhausted when it came time to go to bed she still had a smile on her face. It was fantastic for us as a family to see Madey being Madey again, laughing and enjoying her friends and family, a priceless gift for us. Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for the love and kindness of others, thank you somehow seems insufficient, nonetheless, Thank You! Madey's Number One Support Team "Let us run with patience the race that is set before us" (Hebrew 12:1)Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-10356808919744728852010-04-19T21:19:00.000-07:002010-04-19T21:50:52.382-07:00Pizza, a Party, and Precious People!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglsH5t4Fqx8Hfm7Ki0q3lcWKkefblUWO1Jd_TqjI2bO3DOi_QsgIX2VGCHtfdCoJB4aUujYwCADME9tUx4u49lHjRda9iXSx3TtvIxDBSyyPvzqFKUyEhyP7OKpUQuwNNcMVSf_X51nOg/s1600/imgp4261.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglsH5t4Fqx8Hfm7Ki0q3lcWKkefblUWO1Jd_TqjI2bO3DOi_QsgIX2VGCHtfdCoJB4aUujYwCADME9tUx4u49lHjRda9iXSx3TtvIxDBSyyPvzqFKUyEhyP7OKpUQuwNNcMVSf_X51nOg/s320/imgp4261.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462070971286902834" border="0" /></a>We celebrated a happy 20<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> birthday with big sister Lindy this week!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzt-uWwttTcA6AjOCbOHnOuvneNBcesjI9PDmjkUqOIJl0Y8YWx4f7fSmc6lveFMXt-Il54Hp6S-JXC8AtHEi7sLYe5Qbk3IGqUo0ljduhaqVU8Kt6ROai4NR19ZXAJI9LrFT7f-b8V7s/s1600/imgp4250.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzt-uWwttTcA6AjOCbOHnOuvneNBcesjI9PDmjkUqOIJl0Y8YWx4f7fSmc6lveFMXt-Il54Hp6S-JXC8AtHEi7sLYe5Qbk3IGqUo0ljduhaqVU8Kt6ROai4NR19ZXAJI9LrFT7f-b8V7s/s320/imgp4250.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462070959921263762" border="0" /></a>Make a Wish came calling, now deciding what to wish for - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">hmmm</span>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR36l3EW8l8jDhi_72A_vKmYwl_UM1DhC_tjV5tBPxdeFHycA5ElqSZNFo2HEvr4hzBA_8kdJPBET0yzpAR7ZTqp2itf3PKBmw7PSNBv_OhSG5aZXqVuWOll3JQ1oZfDbBN1nhNIwuKF0/s1600/imgp4235.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR36l3EW8l8jDhi_72A_vKmYwl_UM1DhC_tjV5tBPxdeFHycA5ElqSZNFo2HEvr4hzBA_8kdJPBET0yzpAR7ZTqp2itf3PKBmw7PSNBv_OhSG5aZXqVuWOll3JQ1oZfDbBN1nhNIwuKF0/s320/imgp4235.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462070956069221266" border="0" /></a>This week was definitely full of nice surprises. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Madey's</span> platelet counts were low so she wasn't able to go in for treatment on Tuesday as anticipated. It was a blessing in disguise because this allowed her to attend the year-end basketball banquet with her team. It was nice to see her interacting with teammates and taking time to express our gratitude to the girls and coaches for dedicating their season to her. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Fairfield</span> Girls basketball team and coaches will always have a special place in our hearts. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Madey</span> also received student of the month honors at school in Social Studies and was honored by her teacher Mr. Carter at a breakfast Wednesday morning, she wasn't feeling up to attending but was very honored by the recognition.<br />Having chemo delayed also allowed Lindy to celebrate her birthday twice in one week, since <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Madey</span> was going in for Chemo on Friday she would miss Lindy's birthday, so Thursday night George grilled steaks and Michelle made a cake and we had an impromptu party for Lindy and even allowed her to open one gift early. We followed that up with a Little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ceasar's</span> pizza (the only thing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Madey</span> eats in the hospital) party @ the Hospital on Saturday where our little family was able to gather and watch Lindy open her other gifts. Although conditions were not ideal it was sweet to be together.<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Madey</span> was also able to finally meet her friend and fellow Ewing's Sarcoma patient Kaitlin, who was admitted to the hospital on Saturday for her next round of chemo, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Madey</span> was pretty tired that morning but was pleased that Kaitlin stopped by her room before beginning treatment to get to know her and say hi. Sunday afternoon one of George's former missionary companion Darryl Mason, who has been battling cancer for several months was able to come by and visit with his sweet wife. It was a such a blessing for us and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Madey</span> to have him come and share his experiences with chemo and radiation, when he left <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Madey</span> commented several times on how much she liked him and appreciated the support of someone battling a similar <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">disease</span>. Also Sunday evening Lindy graduated from the Ogden <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">LDS</span> Institute, yeah! We are so proud of her.<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Madey</span> came home Sunday night just before midnight and has spent much of Monday sleeping and recovering. We are happy to have her home and have the whole family under the same roof. We just wish to again say thank you for all the prayers, love, and support. We look forward to seeing many of you at the Miles for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Madey</span> fun run/walk this Saturday, you can come cheer George on as he attempts to run his first 5K, should be entertaining if nothing else.Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-50179486127276860592010-04-11T16:11:00.000-07:002010-04-12T14:38:47.606-07:00Spring Break, Transfusion, and How to Train Your DragonWe are finally starting to understand that nothing goes as planned, ever. We had hoped to start round 5 of Chemo this last week, but Madeline's blood counts were too low, so after a blood transfusion we were told to wait until next week. So we are hopefully going to go in this Tuesday (although we may have to miss the year end basketball banquet, tear) to take care of Chemo treatment #5. I don't know why we act surprised I don't think we have started a single treatment on the day it was originally scheduled. Of course last week was Spring Break for Hillary and Landon, so they were home looking for something fun to do. On Wednesday George took the day off and took Hillary, Madey, and Landon to see "How to Train Your Dragon" while Michelle went shopping all by herself. They all had a good time at the movie and Madey really enjoyed doing something 'normal' like going to a movie in a theater. Later that afternoon it was Hillary's turn for some medical treatment, she got to have her wisdom teeth pulled (Lucky). The rest of the day was spent lying low and recovering from the dentist.<br />Saturday the weather was nice enough to go to Layton Park, where we had a small picnic, George and the girls spent time throwing a softball around, yes Madey can still throw hard, while Landon played on the playground with a friend. George grilled burgers for dinner that night and we spent the rest of the evening watching old family videos and laughing at each others idiosyncrasies.<br />Today has been a good day, everyone made it to church, Madey even felt good enough to attend Young Women's, we sure appreciate our priests for bringing the Sacrament to her after the meeting. All in all we continue to be optimistic and look forward to the conclusion of our next two rounds of chemo. We hope to be done with them by the first week in May, but as I type that I am reminded that nothing ever seems to go according to my time frame. We are still in training for the MilesforMadey 5k being held on the 24th of April, hopefully someone will be driving behind the pack to pick up those of us who pass out (hehe).<br />We are truly grateful for how blessed we are as a family, we are surrounded by so many amazing neighbors, friends, and family members that it is hard to get discouraged. Thank you for your continued love, support, and prayers.<br />We just needed to make a quick addendum, Madeline's Platelets are too low so we need to delay treatment #5, we will let you know when she actually makes it to the hospital. Looks like we will make it to the basketball banquet after all!Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620435025777486272.post-15660055978003238362010-04-04T19:40:00.000-07:002010-04-04T20:01:13.033-07:00This week has been a week of recovery. Madeline came home last Sunday and has really enjoyed being home. She slept for 12 hours the first night, and must have told Michelle at least 5 times on Monday "its good to be home". This week Madey has spent time napping, working on homework, played her guitar, watched the game show network, and gotten to hang out with friends. She has also watched the men's and women's final four and like most of the country was excited to see Butler make the finals. Today has been a nice day as well, watching General Conference and then gathering at Michelle's brothers house for brunch, it was good to see everyone and we were happy Madey was feeling well enough to go, she enjoyed talking with her cousins and being around her grandparents. Madeline is scheduled to go back to the hospital on Wednesday for her next round of Chemo, but just because its scheduled doesn't mean it will happen, we are hopeful everything will go as planned this week. <br />We continue to be amazed at Madey's good attitude and willingness to push forward in this fight, we are also grateful for the faith, love, and prayers of so many others on her behalf.Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17792251325511635419noreply@blogger.com1