Suddenly a Caregiver - eBook Available Now

I am pleased to announce the release of Suddenly a Caregiver as an eBook on Smashwords.

Promotional price: $6.74

Coupon Code: YC69H

Expires: March 23, 2013

Sharing a family’s experience and lessons learned to help you through the unexpected responsibility of becoming a family caregiver. The lessons learned include advocacy, caregiver concerns, organizational helpers, grieving, and a variety of other topics while caring for my wife who was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme – a stage 4 brain cancer.

Book Page - http://darrylpendergrass.com/books/suddencaregiver/

Facebook Book Page - http://www.facebook.com/SuddenlyACaregiver

This eBook is available in all popular formats

Book in Progess

Suddenly a Caregiver

A guide to help you you through the unexpected responsibility of becoming a family caregiver.

At the urging of friends and family, I started working on a book about caring for someone diagnosed with gliobastoma multiforme (GBM) - a stage 4 brain cancer. Glioblastoma effects slightly over 10,000 Americans per year (CBTRUS, 2012).

I want to share the story of one person's courage in her fight against this disease and the lessons that I learned along the way. My hope is that our story will be a source of encouragement and strength for you if you find yourself Suddenly a Caregiver.

For updates on the progress and release, please visit my web site.

http://www.darrylpendergrass.com/books/suddencaregiver/default.htm

9 Nov 2010 - Memorial and Tributes

Lynne's memorial and celebration of her life is scheduled for 7:00 pm this evening. I hope to see you there.

Sun Valley Church of Christ
1015 N Recker Rd
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Google Map

In lieu of flowers, Lynne and the family request donations to:
Barrow Neurological Institute
http://www.supportbarrow.org/Memorials_And_Tributes/190721

Regards,
Darryl

6 Nov 2010

Lynne won her battle against the Glioblastoma Multiforme at 2:05 pm this afternoon. At noon, her breathing became extremely labored and the oxygen saturation dropped to 55%, so we were sure that she was within just a few minutes. But Lynne is a fighter - a fighter to the bitter end.


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5 Nov 2010

I decided to spent the night at the hospice house tonight. As the signs of Lynne's impending passing increase, I am reluctant or incapable of resting. The children and I were able to spend some quality time with Lynne this afternoon. I believe she heard our words because she provides some simple acknowledgements. I did notice that she is struggling to focus her vision to those that are speaking but I am consoled that she acknowledges in other ways.

Today, I made my way to a local funeral home to plan for Lynne's final desires. Lynne wants to donate her body for study and research, especially her brain to further the body of knowledge for combating Glioblastoma Multiforme. She mentioned in the past her desire to contribute to the education of future doctors and possibly to extend the life of someone else. Her caring spirit continues to amaze me. I appreciate her courage and hope to build enough courage myself to make a similar decision.

As I prepare to retire for the evening, I pass along a simple reminder - hug the ones you care about and tell them you love them. May God bless you all.

Regards,
Darryl


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3 Nov 2010

Over the last two days, Lynne has enjoyed some additional energy. Yesterday, Diana lit up Lynne's eyes at the suggestion of a carmel frappe from McDonalds - one of Lynne's favorite indulgences. At one point, Diana tried to remove the cup from Lynne's hand to warm the hands a bit but Lynne gave her the "stink eye." In other word, "Get your hands off my frappé."

The hospice staff moved Lynne outside for a bit this morning to enjoy a little fresh air and the warm sun. She enjoyed the cool air and the sound of the humming birds at a feeder nearby.

She is enjoying the visits from family and the many friends she has made over the years. She is especially attuned to the voices and seems to recognize many by voice before sight. Despite her condition, she has not lost her caring ways. Each hug is accompanied but the gentle pats on the back. On Monday, I was outside her room reading some cards sent to her. Some of the cards elicited some tears and she heard me, calling me into the room she wrapped her left arm around my back and began her comforting patting. Even in her condition, she musters the strength to console and comfort others.

Regards,
Darryl

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31 Oct 2010

Except for brief moments of consciousness, Lynne has been sleeping since Friday evening. She is not eating or drinking. All medications are suspended except for one to control seizures, one to prevent nausea, and one to manage pain. She is also not receiving anything intravenously. I am thankful that Lynne and I discussed this a couple of years ago. Based on our conversations, I am comforted knowing that decisions I make are those she would make.

If you do not having a living will, do your family a favor and get one created. Lynne and I created them a while back and now I understand the importance of that simple document. Don't think that it can't or won't happen to you because none of us are smart enough or in enough control to know that for sure.

Lynne is resting peacefully. The hospice nurses are very attentive to her needs and providing very good care.

Regards,
Darryl


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