[My] Life in Wisconsin

More About Our Pin Cushion

Good Afternoon Everyone;
I imagine you are all so busy with everything- The last minute preparations for your own Holly Jolly Christmases and all.

I wish I could say that I will keep this short, (but you know me).
Besides, I have a gazillion pictures. hehehe

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Minneapolis 12-22-08 001
This is the look that Miss Punk gets on her face if I say "Casey" aloud.

And YES!,
There IS a possibility that Punk will be able to visit the hospital too.
Although we have been asking for 2 days now and have heard nothing.


Casey has just called-
She is going to call down herself to get the paperwork started.

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Greg left a bit earlier this morning to return home-
Driving into a bit of "weather" in Wisconsin, but all in all a better day to travel today than yesterday was.
(Know that it is still below zero as I write).
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Minnesota 12-21-08 014
Casey received her transfusion yesterday.
She had no bad reactions to it either.
(That is always a possibility- and a scary one at that).

She may need another
but for now we are doing the 'wait and see' thing.

She also needed still another ultrasound this morning.
All came back well and good.
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Her urine output continues to be fine, so I am hoping that was another hurdle that has been crossed.
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That blood transfusion surely added to the confusion of all her lines.
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Minnesota 12-21-08 016

Casey's tangled webs of lines...
On 2 portable pole wheelie thingies.

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And her many, many, MANY pumps that are running 24/7...
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(There are three additional ones that wouldn't even fit in the picture).

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Minnesota 12-21-08 008

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Running? ..
Did I say running?
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Yes.  Even all those lines must be kept open and running somehow-
She has a bag of heparin running 24/7, but the lines still need to be flushed out.
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Minneapolis 12-22-08 011
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Looking great if you ask me!
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And she is even proud of her little scar!
(As well she should be).

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Minnesota 12-21-08 006

Methinks it looks like a fishhook of sorts...
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She needs insulin at this point, and she is gradually learning how to do this properly.

This is required in 100% of TP/AIT Transplant patients until...

We will know if her Islet Cells have transplanted successfully within 6 months to a year.

*Patience is absolutely required. It takes that long for them to grow and flourish.
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A whole ton of information is being tossed at her every day.
Some of the nurses contradicting other nurses,
(not to mention contradicting the doctors)!

You can imagine this does NOT go over too well with her doctors.
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Minnesota 12-21-08 020
Giving herself insulin.

Her readings have been between 105 and 167.
And her fingertips are extremely painful now also.
Talk about a "Pin Cushion"...
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But wait..
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The very best is yet to come...

(Please do NOT scroll down unless you are seated).
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Minneapolis 12-22-08 004
Yeah, Baby!!!

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Un~freakin'~believable, isn't it?!?!?!

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And I do love the way her hair makes it look like she is wearing a halo.
Personally I cannot think of a better human being to have one of those.
(Well, beside myself that is)
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hehehe


Once again, that is all I know for today.

I know many of you will be traveling and will not be able to be stopping by.
Christmas promises be a lonely day for me with no one on... Know that I will be thinking of you all.

Know too that I will be missing my little Christmas Brunch the most.

May you all have a safe, a joyous, and a most blessed Christmas.

Love to all.

XOXO
Anne

PS
Don't forget the batteries!
hehehe
(er, I mean HOHOHO of course).
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52 comments:

  1. How good to see her up and about! Looking gooooooooood!

    Is she going to be moved to another floor anytime soon? In order to see Punk, will that request be fulfilled in the waiting room on that floor or a special room?

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  2. Ya know, it's not so much the smile on Casey's face that's so good to see - it's that look of optimism and determination on her face! I've never seen it shine through so brightly before - It's Priceless! She's shown so much strength and courage through this whole procedure that... well, I don't know anyone whose ever been braver! I'm just in awe of you Casey!

    I sure do hope Punk can come to see her, it would do them both so much good to see each other.

    BTW I'll be online for a little while on Christmas Day. I'll be going over to mom's house after I get off from work, but between the time I get home and go to bed I'll be stopping by to spread some holiday cheer. (Annie, does the hospital have Wi-Fi or can you only get online at the hotel?) Anyway, Christmas is still a couple of days away, I hope you'll still be keeping us posted everyday if you can.

    (Still giggling over your technical terminology Annie: "Casey's tangled webs of lines... On 2 portable pole wheelie thingies." you're so funny!)

    Hugs to all 3 of you (that's including Punk - but you knew that)

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  3. OH FINALLY, TEARS OF JOY!! I cannot believe she is up and walking. I don't know about you sweetie, but this is absolutely all I needed for Christmas!!

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  4. AIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEe

    I don't wish poinky fingers on anyone! I hate that (and it makes typing difficult)

    If she needs a source of viral free (certified even) A+ blood we know where to get some....

    Glad to see her up and about such a great christmas gift THAT is.....

    I think the scar looks like the japanese symbol for pincushion.

    Amazing to see the LACK of pain in her eyes for the first time in years.... Such an angelic face indeed!

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  5. ditto what recons...said.

    I want to thank for taking all of the photos over the past (how many years now??) It's terrible that we could see so much pain in CaseyFace's eyes...but her journey has been shared by so many. THAT'S the kiddo that I want to see from now on...She's just simply beautiful!!

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  6. wow...she is looking like she is all set and just in time for Santa Clause too!

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  7. WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can not believe she is up and about. I would be being such a baby. She is such a trooper. I bet you are so proud. It would be great if they would let punk in to see Casey. I'm sure they would both enjoy the visit. Guess I better go. Lots of love to you!

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  8. I almost cried when I saw the pic of Casey up & around.
    It's so totally great to see how good she looks too. My god, I don't look that good without makeup & I've never even had any kind of operation. God Bless the young!
    Tell her I'm still thinking of her & talking to my bud JC every day for her.
    And for you , too Sweetness!
    If I don't see ya before Thursday I will most definitely drop by on Christmas! We don't have plans til later in the day. Can't let you be alone !
    Love & hugs to all
    OXOXOX

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  9. She looks wonderful and up and walking...WOO-HOO!!!!!!!!

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  10. I couldn't wait to get here to see how things are going. Casey has been in my thoughts and prayers and it looks like my prayers along with everyone else's are slowly but surely being answered. What a great sight to see her up and manuevering around. WAY TO GO, CASEY!!!! KEEP IT UP!!!!

    My friend, you will NOT be alone. I will be here from time to time checking for messages from friends from afar. I will be checking in with you and Casey as well. I hope you take my idea of posting a pic of a beautiful Christmas tree here for us all to leave gifts and messages to brighten your and Casey's day. I have just the thing I want to leave. Give it some thought.

    Hang in there!!! We are seeing some great things with every blog you post.

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  11. Hi ya Rock!
    It is absolutely wonderful to see her on her feet and that beautiful smile that she is showing off!
    Now as to those sore fingers.. oh man can I relate... I will give a little tip.. dont do it right on the tips or the center pad of the finger those are the most sensitive.. go over to the side of the center of the finger. As silly as it sounds.. that area is not near as sensitive and it doesnt seem to stay sore as long. But she will become accustomed to the checks and they wont be as sore (never thought I would hear me say that) also changing fingers helps too.

    They have the newer little machines now that allow you to test from the back of the hand or even the arm. Although the doctors dont like them.... they say they are not as accurate. Some are even free after rebates.

    It is sooooooooooooo gooooooooooood to see her up and around .. How long does she have to stay hooked up to all the pumps and tubes and stuff?

    And the question we all want to know... Was her little booty hanging out as she walked down the hall? hehe

    Hugs and mucho luv

    beepluvsrock.com

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  12. Damn - and she is smiling through all of this. Yeah Casey

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  13. Oh btw.. you have my number.. call if you get bored or sad or just wanna talk.. Christmas or no.. I think JT wants to be heading north Christmas evening so I might be just sitting in a car ... so it would be awesome to hear from you.

    I know you need to watch your minutes.. but Im here if you wanna call!

    Mucho Hugs!

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  14. I'm so pleased for Casey and you. This is just wonderful, wonderful, wonderful.

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  15. I see she's getting TPN..that's good!!!..will keep up her energy:)..She looks absolutely awesome!!!..She is such a lil trooper as is her mommie!!!..Punk looks content..she must know all is better huh:)..Thank you so much for this terrific update..I was hoping you posted:)..Hugssss, love and prayers to all of you..love, Beth

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  16. Oh my goodness she looks grrrrrrrreat!! I'm so happy and relieved. prayers for a speedy recovery, also remember I am an insulin dependant diabetic, so if any questions let me know! I'm one of those going out of towners this week, but please know I am thinking and praying for Casey and you hon. xoxo

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  17. Anne...we are having Christmas dinner with my sister on Christmas Eve. Christmas day I will be home and watching my grandson Dalton open his gifts. There are very few so that won't take long. I plan on having a cup of coffee, watch a parade or a movie, snooze on the couch or go back to bed and leave the eating up to the re-heats in the microwave at everyone's own discretion. If I am napping they can heat up their own food. We'll have plenty of left overs from the day before.

    At some point during the day....I will be online. That is, if I can pry my hubby or son away from the computer.

    So, I'll find out how your day is going on Christmas day.

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  18. Sweet PeachieBaby;
    In order to answer your questions, we would have to be able to actually SPEAK to someone from SS. (I am thinking they don't really exist).
    So today I shall march my butt right to their office, (provided I can find it).
    If the answer is anything but nice, trust me, Punk will visit on Christmas Day.

    And back in Suamico, there sits Doc Spires waiting for a fax...

    XOXO
    Me

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  19. Sweet RT;
    It's her Yusvak blood coming through for her. Wait. (Sometimes I have to think)... hehehe
    OK, so I was adopted, and there isn't any 'blood'... Suffice to say she has the spirit of her Grandfather Lawrence.
    I had to reread too- I had 'substituted "princess" for your "priceless"
    She IS brave, isn't she!

    (See my comment above to Peach to see if Punk can visit her Casey).

    Now, I can get online at the hospital- if I feel like dragging my laptop with. But there are computers down the hall and around the corner for public use too. (I had to fix one of them already).

    I liked "wheelie thingies" too.
    "Poles with wheels" sounded too much like an indoor skating rink in Warsaw, so I didn't use that
    'Thingies' worked better...

    Yes, I will try to keep you all updated, even on Christmas- I saw a mass schedule posted at the hospital, read it, but don't remember what I read offhand either. I am hoping I can transport Casey to a service at some point. It would mean the world to us both.

    XOXO
    Me

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  20. hehehe Sweet Thers- And I am thinking it's a damn fine thing she isn't anywhere near to Indiana or she would be skating down those halls.
    So do quit crying or those tears will freeze to your face...

    I am also happy that this is all you needed for Christmas; (beings that I didn't go buy you a darn thing).

    XOXO
    Me

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  21. Seeet Pea;

    Is it legal to use "poinky" on this site?
    I am viral free, and have A+ too.
    So there.
    But if I run out we shall have them call you. After you arrive you will have 15minutes or so to thaw out.

    (Ditto, see above, for your own Christmas gift).

    And OMG you had me cracking up bigtime with your description of her scar.
    I told Casey she HAD to come see what everyone has been saying about her since this all began- She has not had the concentration yet to be online- (Nor have her eyes had any longevity with respect to remaining open)... hehehe

    But I hope she will be laughing too-
    (I hear it restores abused molested abdominal muscles).

    She really IS in pain... It's just NOT of the pancreatic variety.
    (And knowing that, it really makes me wonder exactly how bad that pain was).

    XOXO
    Mama D.

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  22. hehehe

    She really IS kinda cute, ain't she?

    XOXO
    Me

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  23. Santa cheated this year Sweet Bobbie, and so won't have much for her little stocking.

    XOXO
    Me

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  24. But that's OK as long as it isn't candy...

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  25. Sweet Darla;
    The difference being is that the offensive organ has been removed.
    ...Just "knowing" that is a huge positive for her!

    I hope they do allow Punk to visit too. But I am so mad right now that she will visit anyhow.

    XOXO
    Me

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  26. Aw... You are so kind Sweet Bug;
    As is your buddy JC.

    Now about that makeup- Why is it that guys always prefer women without makeup?
    Even Cosmopolitan has stated that time and time again. (Yet all of their ads, save a very few, are all about vanity). Go figure.

    As you saw in the pic of me the other day, I don't do well without makeup either. But I really don't care what I look like there either.
    It was just too cold. (And my face would have cracked).

    XOXO
    Me

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  27. Sweet LynnAnn;
    I'll see your 'wonderful, and raise you a hundred WOO-HOO's!

    XOXO
    Me

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  28. Sweet Pam;
    I already have the most perfect picture of a tree- and it will be posted on Christmas Eve for her.

    Now about her being up and maneuvering around...
    (Methinks the doctor just didn't reattach her shoulder properly).
    hehehe

    Speaking of her doctor... He is on vacation now.
    But I have it on good authority that he took her pancreas and her spleen and left town with them.
    HAHAHA.

    I am so happy that so many of you will be here on Christmas- I know that with my Brunch and all, I barely had time or energy to come online then.
    Yet I did real early, and then again real late- It was the hours inbetween that I thought I'd be missing you all.

    XOXO
    Me

    PS
    About your idea- Once I read it, I didn't have to give it a second thought!
    It is a "wunnaful" and "funniful" idea!
    Thank you!

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  29. Sweet Beep!
    She ran out of fingers, (and sides), a long time ago-
    They tested her blood sugar EVERY HOUR in the beginning...
    Now they are down to every two hours.
    I told the nurse to use my finger, but she wouldn't... Killjoy that she was...

    I am going to pick up one of those new little machines- and I will test her arm right along with them, every time, to see how inaccurate they really are.

    Her little booty hanging out? (JT made you ask that, didn't he)? hehehe
    But nope. Sorry.
    She had the pink gown underneath- and wore the green one over it to hide her bum from prying eyes.

    Not sure about the pumps and all... Some longer than others I believe.

    Love to you both

    XOXO
    Me

    RockLuvsBeep.com

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  30. Sweet CAB;

    And it is a depth of a smile we haven't seen in too long!

    XOXO
    Me

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  31. Sweet Beep.
    I do have your number.
    It is in Flintville.

    Maybe a private note here?

    XOXO
    Me

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  32. Sweet Mr. KhoolMan;
    You are right. It is the most wonderful thing that could be happening!
    It is the only thing!

    XOXO
    Me

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  33. Good morning!!! Just thought I'd stop in and check for any update before heading out to work. Will definitely be watching for your Christmas tree tomorrow. I have just the most perfect thing to put under it. LOL!!! I just thought it would be a good way to show our love and support for you, Miss Caseyface, and, of course, the Punkster. I might have to come up with a special gift for the punkster under that tree, too. LOL!!! I just figured she can't "get to christmas" so we'd bring Christmas to her. You'll have to take your laptop so you can show her if you are allowed to that is. Sure hope they will allow Punkster to pay her a visit. That would be soooooo great!!

    Well, the clock is telling me to be about my business and get ready for work. Take care and give that girl of ours a big but gentle hug for me and Cee.

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  34. Sweet WyckieBaby!
    I am glad you brought up the TPN- hehehe
    As I'd gotten a little side note that asked why her urine was hanging way up on a pole.

    Punk is just sad that she can't see Casey- When Greg had dropped off Casey's coat to the room here before he left, Punk went absolutely berserk.
    But this dog is smart- She seems to know that Greg has left, and has even quit stopping by his door to sniff and say hi.

    And he did call last night to say he made it back to Green Bay safe and sound.

    Glad they at least plowed the highways, Lord knows they don't plow the roads here.
    Six+ inches of snow the other day, and I think the plow went by only twice.
    Weird, that.
    By comparison, my own little road at home gets plowed and salted about every hour during and after a snow of that depth. Guess I'm spoiled.
    (And damned happy that I have All Wheel Drive on the Rendezvous too)!

    XOXO
    Me

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  35. Sweet Pam!
    I shall let her know about your offer for advice!
    It's been hard that there are only a few pancreatitis patients out here- But I'd be willing to bet that lots of people are dealing with diabetes in one form or another.

    Have yourself a 'Wunnaful" Christmas! Where ever you are!
    hehehe
    (I just hope Santa can find you)...

    XOXO
    Me

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  36. Sweet PeachieBaby!
    What time do we all eat at your sisters? (I am SO ready to leave Minnesota)...
    And I would be willing to bet that it's probably warmer at your sisters than here.
    hehehe

    I giggled at your saying it wouldn't take long for Dalton to open his gifts. That's how we always do Christmas too.

    And I always go upstairs and nap after everyone leaves from my brunch too.
    Such is "Christmas on the farm"...

    XOXO
    Me

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  37. Sweet Pam;
    OK.
    I promise to lug my laptop up there on Christmas! Maybe I shall bring her hers today too.

    May your short week at work feel even shorter!

    XOXO
    Me

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  38. know what? Casey does surely look good for someone who just had a transplant procedure.The best Christmas ever for Casey and of course for everyone who loves her so dearly...most especially YOU..her sweet loving and caring mom!!
    Hugs to you both!!

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  39. Sweet Leticia!
    Everything is happening so miraculously, isn't it!

    And yes, she does look good!
    I would not have thought it possible if I hadn't seen it with my own soul.
    But know that we didn't do this alone- It is only due to everyones positive thoughts and many prayers

    XOXO
    Me

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  40. You know I looked for an updated blog from you all day yesterday. I am just now able to view this one...errrg!

    I am so amazed at Casey's progress! It is awesome!

    Hoping she didnt need another transfusion.

    Still praying and sending hugs!

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  41. Fearkin Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Sweet BethieBaby!
    I/WE (me and Punk) just came in-
    She wanted to play in the snowbanks; (yes, we got more last night), and I wanted to leave.
    She poo'ed- Ate some fluffy stuff (SnowCone Dog)?, and are back inside.
    What a difference without my long johns on!

    I think I posted that blog before you and I had that letter going.
    From now on I shall set the posting time back 3 hours. Do you think that will help?
    Multiply sure has been weird.

    Maybe it was too cold to post?
    Haven't heard whether she will be getting another transfusion yet. Will find out shortly, the Rendezvous is running already...

    XOXO
    Me

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  42. WOW!! what an improvement...!! my niece looks grrrrrrrrrrrrreat!!
    love you both,
    k

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  43. Hey Anne,

    It's great to see Casey up and about! It's amazing what can be done today....too bad it took so long to get to this point but I know you both must be so excited about the future...perhaps trying the college thing again???? (just not that bad college!)

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  44. Good to know I have a whole 15 minutes. i will have to bring a serious heater with me.

    Glad to know I could make you laugh. It DOES look like a japanese character too.....


    I know she said she was still in pain but the fact that it is no longer pancreatic and not written all over her face is a huge difference already.

    xoxoxoxox

    Splat.

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  45. I had to come check out what was happening, and I see such an amazing picture. It made me cry and thank God for answered prayers. Casey looks amazing, such a strong young woman, but it does not surprise me Anne, after all she is your daughter. The worst is finally over, and one day at a time it can only get better. have a wonderful Xmas my friend, God bless. hugs.

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  46. It is SO great to see Casey... You can see relief in her eyes... This is the beginning of her returning to a normal life!

    Please give her a hug for me... The give yourself a hug for me too

    Love Ya!

    Slurkie

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  47. It is just great to see Casey looking so great right before Christmas!! Hoping everything will go well with Punks visit to the hospital as well. That smile she has will probably widen even more when Punk walks in. Am loving the updates and cant wait til you guys can come home. Are you staying up there for everything or coming back sooner? We can only pray her recovery comes quickly so we can have Casey home by spring. Give her our love and take some for yourself.

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  48. Sweet Sweet Brandy!
    I am probably going to stay for the duration. I would like to sneak home, but it is just not possible.
    AND ESPECIALLY WITH THOSE 3 FEET OF SNOW YOU HAVE!!!
    Good grief, when was the last time THAT happened in December in Flintville?
    Or even Pulaski for that matter???

    I will be missing my little Brunch tomorrow-
    Who will grab your dads backside? hehehe

    But know this...
    I SHALL HAVE A HOMECOMING PARTY LIKE NO OTHER when we finally do get home!

    My love to all. And a very special Christmas HUG for Miss Ashley!

    XOXO
    Me

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  49. HAHAHA! I'm laughing at your predicament of who will grab the leprechaun's butt this Christmas!!! HA!

    I did miss this Christmas brunch very much, but it will all make next year that much more special! And pancreas free!!!! :D

    Yes I am still trying to catch up on all your blogs! I have a feeling I have a ways to go yet... My eyes don't do well with the computer so I have to wear my glasses but for reading I haven't had to! Maybe that will clear up too!! YAY!!!

    Love you MUCH MUCH!
    ~Casey

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  50. Diabetes messes with your eyes. It will probably clear up as your sugar resolves... but be sure to get your eyes checked then anyway just to be sure....

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