Tyler Talk

2 Rounds Down

2010-05-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

Monday, May 3

Tyler has completed his second round of chemo and is doing great. The chemo went very smoothly with no nausea and no throwing up. He was pretty worn out from it though. It makes him very tired but no energy is better than throwing up any day!!!!!Sarah and Tyler flew home on Tuesday night. He is scheduled to return to St Jude on Sunday, May 9th. He will have his scans to see what his lungs look like. There is a possibility that the chemo has either shrunk the nodule in his left lung or that it has disappeared all together. What a celebration there will be if that is the case!!!! If there is no change in the spot he is scheduled in the OR for surgery on Tuesday, May 11th. They will also resume chemo the following week.

It just seems to never end for the family. I am asking you to continue to pray hard for the family. It has been tough on Sarah being away from the younger two, Christian and Elijah. Sometimes there is so much attention given to Tyler that the younger boys get overlooked. Sarah hopes they never feel slighted or unimportant. They are still working on getting Tyler's chemo treatments in AZ but no luck thus far. Please pray they have good news soon about his treatments there. That would be so much easier on the family. Sarah will be away for 3 weeks starting next week, if Tyler needs surgery.

God is in control of the Hanson's lives. We must be patient, pray and trust what we want God wants to happen also.

Stay close!

Kim

Round 2 of Chemo

2010-04-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

Friday, April 23, 2010

After a very busy weekend in California, Tyler and Sarah flew to Memphis on Tuesday and drove straight to St Jude's. He started chemo Thursday and has had 2 of the five doses down. Tyler is feeling really good and they are letting him do his chemo as an out patient this time. That makes him very happy!!!! He hates when he can't leave the hospital so taking chemo as an out patient really helps to keep his spirits up. They fly home next Tuesday. Sarah doesn't know what the plan is yet for the spot in his left lung. We are praying that it will be gone and he won't need anymore surgery!

The family traveled to California for a funeral and wedding. There was a wake service on Friday to remember Sarah's grandmother who passed away a few weeks ago and also a wedding rehearsal for Aaron, Sarah's brother. The wedding was on Sunday and the family left afterwards at 9:00 pm for Arizona arriving home at 3:00 AM. Glen (Sarah's dad) flew to California for the wedding but rode with them back to Arizona to visit a few days. Sarah emptied all the suitcases, washed clothes and then packed again for St. Jude. It has been very hectic for them but they are used to the hectic life style.

They are still in the process of coordinating with Tyler's school regarding all of the work he has missed. Since the school has never had to deal with anything like this before, they are having difficulty with organizing it. Please pray this will be worked out so that Tyler can keep up with his school work.

Elijah and Christian were so excited that grandpa was in town for a few days. It has been stressful for Sarah to coordinate someone to help watch the boys and get them to and from school when she is gone. The boys were very happy that grandpa was there to play and take care of them. Glen was flying back to Memphis today and Sarah's sisters are taking over. She is very thankful for her family.

Please continue to pray for Tyler and the family daily.

Stay close!
Kim

Tyler's Home

2010-04-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

After a week of chemo at St Jude's, Tyler and Sarah flew home on Easter Sunday. He has had an amazing week after chemo with no side effects...no nausea or no throwing up. He is on week 2 of his first round of chemo. This is the week his counts drop and he becomes neutropenic. Even though Tyler feels great, he can't go to school because he could contract a germ or bug easily. He will have another week off before round 2 of chemo but Sarah thinks it will just be easier if he makes up his work at home or St Jude's.

Sarah's grandmother died this past weekend and the funeral will be on her brothers wedding rehearsal day (April 17). The family is traveling to California next Thursday to be apart of Aaron's wedding on the 18th. It will be bittersweet attending a funeral and wedding celebration in the same weekend. They will get home on Sunday (4/19) and Sarah and Tyler will fly back to Memphis on 4/20.

Tyler went to the University Medical Center in Tuscon today to meet his doctor. He needs a doctor there in case he has complications. They are checking with the hospital to determine the cost of Tyler having his next chemo treatment in Tuscon. Their insurance pays 90% but if the cost of one chemo treatment is 100,000 then they would have to pay $10,000 out of pocket. WOW That is a lot of money. The amount was given to them from St Jude's so they are checking on the cost at the hospital in Tuscon because it could be less. It sure would be easier on the family for Tyler to have his treatment there in Tuscon. They have their plane tickets for the 20th in case the cost is too high. St Jude is so awesome to assume to costs for their patients so that families can afford treatment. This is a prayer that needs to be made on the families behalf.

The Hanson's faith and strength amaze me. They have been through so much yet remain faithful, determined and always with a positive attitude. Your friends love you and miss you so much!

Stay close!
Kim

It's Chemo Time Again

2010-03-31T18:46:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, March 31

Sarah arrived on Friday in time for the weekend with Tyler and their friends the Ross's. Monday began with a new round of chemo. He has 2 more days of chemo this round. The great news is there is no sign of any side effects from the chemo. Sarah thinks he is being fed sugar water because he feels so good. We can only pray he continues to do this well. They should be able to fly home to Arizona on Sunday.

Happy Easter!!!

He is risen!!

Stay close!

Kim

Never stop praying

2010-03-23T17:38:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, March 23

Tyler did amazingly well after surgery yesterday. In fact, he ate almost a whole pizza last night for dinner. He had an epidural block to relieve him of any pain. He also was given benedryl to stop the itching which has helped him sleep away the day today. The doctors put in a port this time instead of the hickman line. The port is under his skin and requires no maintenance. In other words, Sarah and Charles don't have to flush or change lines and it is so much easier to administer his med's as iv's directly into the line. A plus for Tyler is he can swim and take showers where before he couldn't.

Tyler will get the week off to recover. Sarah is flying into Memphis Friday as Charles flies home. Sarah and Tyler will stay with their friends in Memphis this weekend and Tyler will return to the hospital on Monday for his first round of chemo. Please pray for this new chemo (IE) to work hard to defeat the cancer in his lungs. Tyler will remain in the hospital for at least 6 days while he gets chemo and fluids to flush out the chemo in his body. There will be a very small time frame for him to fly back home to Tucson before his counts drop and his immune system becomes weak. He will probably fly home to Az around April 2 or 3. He will have another round of chemo and then have surgery on his left lung to remove the cancerous nodule. Sarah and Charles aren't sure yet if he will have his second round of chemo in Tucson or Memphis but the second surgery will definitely be at St Jude's.

The best thing we can do for Tyler right now is pray. Pray that the chemo will work on the cancer in his lungs, that the cancer will not spread and for complete healing.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

If you would like to brighten Tyler's day by sending him a card, the address is:
Tyler Hanson
c/o St Jude Hospital
362 Danny Thomas Place
Memphis, TN 38105

Stay close!
Kim

Surgery Went Well

2010-03-22T11:23:00.000-07:00

Monday, March 22

Surgery is over and Tyler did very well! The doctor's placed a port (used for chemo and med's)and removed the nodule in his right lung. Tyler is still sleeping in the post anesthesia recovery unit and Charles will get to go back when Tyler wakes up. Charles said that Tyler was fearless going into surgery and a real champ!

He is a real life hero in my book!

Stay close!
Kim

Surgery Today

2010-03-22T06:36:00.000-07:00

Monday, March 22, 2010

Tyler had a wonderful weekend thanks to Gina and Lauren Foster who traveled to Nashville to pick him up. Tyler came to Cal on Friday to eat lunch with his friends and catch up with his teachers. He then went shopping with Gina and Megan for new jeans and shoes. He had a quiet night with the Fosters that night. On Saturday Tyler met with some "girl" friends for dinner and Austin met up after baseball at the movies. Sunday morning Gina took Tyler back to Nashville to meet his grandpa, Glenn. It was the best medicine for Tyler to be surrounded by friends and to enjoy being 15.

Charles flew back into Memphis on Sunday (yesterday) and Tyler had his pre-surgery tests. He will have a thoracotomy at 9:30 today (Monday)to remove the 1 cm node in his right lung. He will have a week to recover and then a round of chemo. Pray specifically for the surgery to work and the cancer will NEVER return and more importantly that the chemo will shrink (and remove forever)the spot in his other lung. Sarah will fly in on Friday from Tuscon to remain with Tyler until around April 4th. Hopefully he will be able to return to Tuscon to finish his treatment.

Isaiah 40:31 "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Stay close!
Kim

Surgery is Scheduled

2010-03-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

Thursday, March 18

Charles and Tyler are back in Memphis. Tyler arrived Tuesday at St Jude's for scans and unfortunately it revealed that his spots still remain in his lungs. We know that God has a plan and we seek his understanding through this trial. After many meetings with doctors, they have decided to operate on Monday on one of Tyler's lungs followed by chemotherapy. The doctor's want Tyler to remain at St Jude through his first round of chemo. Hopefully the remaining chemo treatments will be in Arizona.

Charles flew back to Arizona this morning and Tyler stayed with Glen, his grandpa. Gina Foster is driving to Nashville to meet Glen and Tyler. Tyler is coming to Louisville to spend the weekend with the Fosters. Tyler will return Sunday afternoon and Charles is flying back to Memphis and will remain there until Wednesday. Sarah will fly into Memphis on Wednesday and Charles will fly home. Whew!!!!!! Wow that is a lot of flying back and forth isn't it?

Christian has been very sick for a week now with a high fever. Since they haven't lived there long they don't have a pediatrician and he had to go to an immediate care. They really don't know what the cause of the fever is so they need prayer answered in this area. Sarah doesn't want to leave Christian if he is still sick on Wednesday, when she is planning to fly to Memphis. The family is being attacked by Satan right now and the only combat I know is prayer. They can use your prayers also!

Pray for Christian's health, travel back and forth from Memphis to Arizona, Tyler to remain healthy while visiting Louisiville, Tyler's surgery and chemo treatment and for the entire family to feel God's strenghthening presence and His healing peace.

Stay close!
Kim

Back to St Jude

2010-03-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

Monday, March 15

Tyler and Charles are on their way to Memphis. Tomorrow Tyler will have a chest ct scan. We are so hopeful that with all of the praying from family, friends and people that don't even know him, God will answer our prayers and heal Tyler. Sarah and Tyler's experience in Redding California gave them so much hope. We know that whatever the results God is in control and he loves Tyler more than all of us.

Saturday was a fun day! A few of Tyler's friends in Louisville had another Hair Club day. Several of the guys shaved their heads in support of their good friend Tyler. They collected money to send to the Hanson's to show their love and show they are still supporting him even though he lives far away. The picture above is of several of them after they shaved their heads and with their new Tyler Hanson Hair Club shirt.

Tomorrow is a new day...and we anxiously await Tyler's results of his tests. "This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it."

A Time of Healing

2010-03-10T08:01:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, March 10

The Hanson's had an amazing time in California. The best thing about the trip was their visit to Bethel Church. Elders from the church prayed specifically for Tyler and the family saw amazing results from the prayers. They also witnessed others being healed. They truly believe that God has the power to heal Tyler and that he will. We must pray the same!

Charles and Tyler will travel to St Jude next Monday (14Th). They have faith that it will be a short trip and that when they do a ct scan on Tyler it will be clear and the cancer will be gone. Matthew 17:20 "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed....nothing will be impossible for you."

Stay close!

Kim

A Break for the Family

2010-03-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

Friday, March 5

After a low week for Tyler, Sarah packed up the kids and the car and headed to California for a few days of fun and relaxation. They saw their favorite Uncle Aaron (Sarah's brother)on Tuesday night and went to Disneyland on Wednesday. What a perfect place to go to forget about everything and just have fun. They traveled Friday to Northern California (Redding) to attend a special church service at Bethel. Charles will be there today for a special anointing and healing service for Tyler. Please join them as they pray for complete healing for Tyler.

They will drive home on Monday to Tuscon. Charles will fly to St Jude in Memphis on Tuesday and Tyler will begin treatment on Wednesday. Charles is planning on remaining at St Jude with Tyler the first week and Sarah will tag team him and be there the second week.

Great news for the family: their insurance approved Tyler to have his chemotherapy in Tuscon. This is such an answer to prayer. It would have been so difficult for Tyler to travel while on chemo and difficult for the family and the younger boys.

Please pray for Tyler that he will sense God's hand all the way and he will experience His healing and comforting presence as he leans on God during this period of his life!

Stay close!

Kim

Here we go Again

2010-02-27T10:48:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 27, 2010

I didn't ever think I would be writing these words again but unfortunately Tyler's cancer has returned.

It began on Tuesday, when Sarah and Tyler flew to Memphis so that Tyler could have his quarterly ct scan. The results showed that Tyler has a spot in each lung that is cancer. Each spot is very small and only measures 1 cm which is good news. The news was devastating to Sarah and Tyler but their faith remains strong. Charles was so sad that he wasn't with them but the family just thought this was a test that needed to be done, not thinking that the results would be anything but good. Tyler's current health has been so good and he is strong and feeling great which will be an advantage when he begins his treatments.

On Wednesday, Tyler returned to the hospital for additional scans and testing and a meeting with his favorite doctor, Scott Mauer. Sarah and Tyler were told the cancer is treatable with surgeries and chemotherapy. Tyler's case is unusual because of the fact that he developed a spot on his lung after chemo was finished months ago. He had a thorocotomy to remove the spot and it was a success and he was declared to be in remission. He has been cancer free for almost a year. There are only about 4oo similar cases a year to compare data, which is a very low number. So doctors don't have a lot of medical data to use to help with Tyler's treatment. They have put together a temporary treatment plan but it won't be complete until after a meeting with many specialized doctors next Wednesday.

Currently Tyler's treatment is expected to include 2 surgeries (thorocotomies on each lung at different times) and 6-8 chemo therapies. Tyler will return to St Jude on March 9Th to have has Hickman line (port) surgically added for his intravenous chemo. The chemo treatments will be similar to the methotrexate he had before where his counts will drop to almost zero and rise again. This is an area of concern since they live in Arizona now and will have to travel back and forth by plane. Traveling by plane with low counts will be very difficult so the family is hoping to have Tyler's chemo in Arizona but it will depend on insurance. This is an area where prayer is highly needed. Charles' new boss, John Rowe, has been so supportive and is collectively working with Charles and others to get his insurance to cover Tyler' treatments in Arizona. As you all know Charles began a new job recently in Arizona so his insurance is also new as of February 1st. His new coverage does not cover pre existing conditions until August but since Tyler was diagnosed as being remission there is a good possibility it will work out. Pray, Pray Pray!!!!!!

The family has so much to absorb right now. They covet your prayers to help them make very difficult decisions for Tyler. The most important prayer being that Tyler will be completely healed from this ugly disease of cancer. Please feel free to send them cards of encouragement. Their new address is: 156 E. Beekeeper Trail, Oro Valley, AZ 85755
As I receive news, I will keep you posted on the situation with Tyler. I miss them tremendously and pray for them often. I challenge you to lift Tyler and his family daily up in prayer!

Stay close!

Kim

Answered Prayers

2009-12-01T09:51:00.001-08:00

Tuesday, December 1

Tyler is recuperating nicely after his surgery. He enjoyed a restful Thanksgiving with his family and friends. He even spent the night with some buddies last weekend and enjoyed hanging out and playing video games. On Sunday he did have a minor set back. He woke up with a headache and sore throat. Unfortunately Tyler is a carrier of the strep virus and he is prone to getting strep too often. He thought he would return to school this week but had to take a couple extra days off to fight the strep. He should be well again in a few days.

Thank you to all who have been praying. While they were at St Jude for his surgery, the doctor's decided to do his chest ct scans early. This is always a nerve racking experience anticipating the results. But God is faithful to answering our prayers and again the scans were clear. No sign of cancer!!!! We are so thankful!

This was a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday compared to this time last year. Tyler was in the hospital for weeks fighting for his life. I give praise to God everyday for his grace and love for this family.

Stay close!
Kim

Tyler is Tough

2009-11-21T11:38:00.000-08:00

Saturday, November 21

Tyler is doing amazingly well after his surgery. Yesterday he was in severe pain due to the CPM machine attached to his leg. This machine applies controlled motion to bend his leg back and forth. Usually the machine is placed on his leg just hours after surgery but it wasn't applied for 24 hours so his leg was stiff and this caused Tyler a lot of pain. He was given some very strong pain medicine and that was hard on his body to adjust to also. Today was a better day!

He woke up feeling less pain and was able to get out of bed walk around and even have some light physical therapy. He should be able to be discharge later this afternoon. He will return to the hospital on Monday to have his dressings changed and leg checked. Sarah will return to Louisville on Tuesday just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday. Charles and Elijah will return tomorrow so that Elijah can be at school on Monday and Charles can be at work.

Tyler will return to St Jude on December 1st to have his leg checked and his staples removed. He will also have blood work and scans done to assure that he remains cancer free. We must continue to pray for good news and healing.

Let us give thanks to HIM for all the blessings we recieve daily.
Happy Thanksgivng!
Kim

Surgery Is Over

2009-11-19T08:29:00.000-08:00

Thursday, November 19, 2009
8:30 AM
Charles texted me to let me know that Tyler's surgery was over in 2.5 hours and it went exactly as planned. The doctor's were scheduled for 5 hours in case of complications but God answered prayers. I will keep you updated on his progress and healing.

Keep Praying!!!!!!

3:00 PM

Tyler is just waking up and feeling no pain due to 2 nerve blocks. He is moving to ICU for a while to recover. Charles said he had no fear today. What a fighter!

Kim

Hopefully this is the Last Surgery

2009-11-17T08:35:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

I am sorry that I didn't give you an update from the last blog. Tyler's surgery was cancelled due to a low white blood count. The tests revealed strep in his system. With this type of surgery, Tyler has to be completely healthy otherwise, the surgery will not be a success. Sooooooooo his surgery is rescheduled for Thursday, November 19th.

The family will be traveling to St Jude today and he will have tests tomorrow to determine if his counts are good enough to have the surgery. Please pray they are that the surgery will be a huge success!!!!!!!!!

Stay close!
Kim

Hopefully The Last Surgery

2009-11-04T09:21:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, October 4, 2009

Tyler left after school yesterday to travel to Memphis. He will be visiting St Jude today for pre op instructions and tests before his scheduled surgery tomorrow. He will have a new metal prosthesis put into his leg. The family is so anxious for this surgery to be completed. Prayerfully hoping this will be his last surgery. If the surgery goes well he will be walking soon without any assistance from a crutch and NO more leg brace!

Please pray that the surgery will be a huge success and it will all be behind him soon!

Stay Close!

Kim

Tyler is doing well

2009-10-02T14:03:00.000-07:00

Friday, October 2

Tyler is doing well after his surgery a few weeks ago. He traveled to Memphis today to have his leg checked and have blood draws to check his counts. Everything looks good. He had his staples removed from his leg and his incision is healing nicely. He is scheduled for his second surgery on October 29th. That is a great time because it is fall break for Christian Academy.

Tyler is taking it one day at a time at school. He has caught up with his work and takes it easy going from class to class as he is still on a crutch and cannot put any weight on his leg. He went to the homecoming dance last week and even danced. Even though his life is not normal he is making the best of things and hanging in there. God teaches us many things through trials and he is teaching Tyler to be patient. I truly believe he will be able to run again

Still praying often for a healthy and completely healed Tyler!

Stay close!
Kim

Completely Clear

2009-09-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

Monday, September 14

Sarah, Tyler and Christian are on their way home. Tyler's surgery was a success so now he needs to be patient while the antibiotics work to clean out his leg. Small metal rods and cement blocks packed with antibiotics were inserted into his leg in place of his metal prosthesis. He will need to walk with crutches with no weight bearing on his leg and his leg needs to remain extended. His leg is very fragile and brittle and could easily break if something fell on it or something hit it. Going to school will be a challenge especially in the crowded hallways. He will probably stay at home the remainder of the week to recover. He is in pain from the surgery. He will stay busy at home catching up on missed work from school.

They received outstanding news while at St. Jude. Sarah requested that since they were there at the hospital that Tyler have his chest ct scan early. Dr. Mauer was very hesitant but agreed to it. The news: COMPLETELY CLEAR! No sign of any cancer. We are so thankful!

Specific Prayer:
Quick and complete healing of his leg
No pain
No anxiety and stress while catching up on school work
Patience

Thanks for your support and continued prayer!

Stay close!

Kim

Back in Memphis

2009-09-07T09:22:00.001-07:00

Sunday, September 7

Tyler has been through this before! His leg will just not heal properly. This time the doctor's want to remove his metal prosthesis and start over. His leg has constantly been infected so Sarah brought him to St Jude's on Friday and they attached a vacuum pack to his leg to suck some of the "gunk" from it. He is scheduled for surgery on Wednesday, September 10 to open his leg up, remove the metal prosthesis and add spacers and packs of antibiotics. These will remain for about 6 weeks to completely clear up the infection. He will remain in a straight/no bend brace and will have to be on crutches until his next surgery. After about 6 weeks Tyler will have a second surgery to add a new prosthesis. He will be so much better off. We will pray that his leg will be perfect then and it will completely be healed forever!

Charles is leaving Tuesday to go to Memphis to be with his family. Sarah, Tyler, Elijah and Christian made the trip and they are staying with their good friends, the Ross's, since their house in Memphis is now rented. The plan is that Tyler will be back to school next week.

Pray for a successful surgery and that he will experience little or no pain.

Stay close!
Kim

Tyler's Back in Memphis

2009-08-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, August 19

Sarah drove Tyler yesterday after school to Memphis to be seen by his doctor's today at St Jude. His leg had become swollen and red on Friday so she took him to his Louisville doctor. They called St Jude and decided to put him on antibiotics and watch him over night. Saturday he returned to his doctor and his leg looked better. St Jude advised for the family to keep a close eye on it. On Monday his leg began swelling again and puss was coming out of the incision and pictures of his leg were sent to St Jude. After a consultation, the doctor's at St Jude decided it was best for Tyler to return to Memphis. They believe that the infection has moved deep into his bone and if this is the case he will have surgery this afternoon.

He will have x-rays and blood work this morning and Sarah and Tyler will meet with his doctor's at 1:00 to determine the news about surgery. This was devastating news yesterday to the family. Of course, Tyler was upset as he had settled in to going to school and living a normal life again, hanging out with his friends. It was an emotional send off. A group of friends gathered outside of the school's library and laid hands on Tyler and prayed for a miracle to take palce. We are calling on our great God to heal his leg so that he will not have to endure the 2 major surgeries to repair and replace his metal prosthesis.

Please hold this family up in prayers. Charles and Elijah remain in Louisville waiting for the news as Elijah is back at school and Charles is working. Sarah, Tyler and Christian are staying with their good friends, the Ross family, while in Memphis. They may need to remain there for at least 2 weeks if Tyler needs these surgeries.

We know God works for the good in all things. He is in control!

Stay close!
Kim

Tyler's Back

2009-08-09T17:50:00.000-07:00

Sunday, August 9

Tyler is back in town and things are great! Tyler went to school on Thursday for the freshman orientation. He became connected again with his friends and made some new ones. On Friday the Finnesands had a welcome back/birthday celebration for him and his family. We are so grateful for their return.

They have been busy this weekend moving and unpacking their things into a new home in Lake Forest. They have had their things in storage since last May and I know the "kids" will be anxious to have some of their toys to play with again. School starts Thursday at Christian Academy and Elijah and Tyler will be there for the first day back. Yippeeeeeeeee!!!!!

Stay close! Kim

Home at last

2009-08-06T10:56:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, August 5

I cannot believe that the Hanson family have moved back to Louisville. It is official! They will stay a night or so with the Foster family and then move into their home in Lake Forest. Tyler will be going to freshman orientation tonight at Christian Academy and start school next Thursday. Elijah will begin 3rd grade and Christian will be starting pre school in a few weeks. It is surreal!!!!!

The family is excited to be back but Sarah's father decided not to make the move this time. He is remaining in Memphis and will live at their home there until they can find a renter. As for a home here, the family was blessed to find a home in their old neighborhood that could be rented until they get back on their feet. Charles will once again be working for Oxmoor Toyota. God has truly been merciful and opened many doors for the family to return back to Louisville. We are so thankful and grateful!

I will keep you posted on news about Tyler's health. He was checked out at St Jude's yesterday before they left. His leg looks great and he will continue to have physical therapy here in Louisville. He had his port removed from his chest so in a week or so it should be healed enough so that he can take showers again. It has been 1 year and almost 3 months since they left on this journey and I am so thankful it has come full circle back here again. Continue to hold Tyler up in prayer to remain cancer free!

Stay close! Kim

Guess who is moving to Louisville

2009-07-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

Thursday, July 30

The Hanson family is moving back to Louisville. It is hard to believe that is coming true. We are so excited to have them back after a year and 2 months of being away from us. Tyler and Elijah will be returning to Christian Academy and we hope and pray it will be the best year ever for the family. They are due some normalacy and happiness. Charles has been offered a job and they are looking for a house so they can get back here next week and return to a normal lifestyle.

They will miss their very good friends, the Ross family, but they are excited to come back to Louisville. Please pray this will be an easy transition for the family and they will find a home very quickly.

I will keep you posted!!!!!
Stay close! Kim

Healthy, Happy and Bored

2009-07-26T16:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday, August 26

Tyler is doing amazingly well. His leg is healing and there is no sign of infection. This is such great news for the family. It means no additional surgeries for his leg. He has had a break from the hospital also. The physical therapy department at St Jude is moving to another location so he has had a few days off. He is supposed to be doing his pt at home but he hasn't been motivated enough to do it. It is important that he continue his therapy to strengthen his leg.

The family have been looking into what to do next for their family. Charles is looking for a permanent job and it is a possibility that they could move back to Louisville. Nothing would make me happier than to have the family back here. Please put this on your prayer list. They want to honor God and listen for his direction.

This has been a week of birthday celebrations. Last Sunday Charles celebrated his birthday, Friday Sarah celebrated her birthday and Tyler celebrates his 15th birthday this Wednesday, July 29th. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TYLER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We wish we could see you on your birthday. We hope it is a special day!

Stay close! Kim

Great Summer Vacation!

2009-07-16T08:36:00.000-07:00

Our family would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making our vacation so fantastic. We truly had a wonderful time. We made 3 weeks worth of memories we will never forget. God truly blessed our time. We are so grateful! We love you all!

Good News

2009-07-14T14:22:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, July 14

The Hanson's received good news yesterday. After hours of tests, Tyler was proclaimed cancer free. All of his tests revealed that there were no signs of cancer in his body. He will have to be tested every 2 months though for the next 2 years. He still needs to work hard in physical therapy to strengthen his leg so it will operate without the use of a crutch.

The family is praising God and giving him all the glory. Thank you for your continuous and sincere prayers. He will still need to be covered in prayers to remain cancer free. The family has been praying that God will reveal to them where they need to go from here. My prayer is a selfish one as I desire for them to move back to Louisville. God may have another plan for them. Pray that God will speak clearly and loudly as they want to do what He wants them to do.

Stay close, Kim

A Nice Visit to Memphis

2009-07-12T13:16:00.000-07:00

Sunday, July 12

Conner and I had the opportunity to go to Memphis this week to visit the Hanson's. Even though Elijah had a fever and was diagnosed with strep, it couldn't stop us from taking the trek down south. We are so glad we did too!

The family returned home on Tuesday night really late from their 3 week vacation so they were still on California time. Tyler looked great and looked very healthy with his tan and very dark hair. They had a great vacation and we enjoyed looking at all of their pictures. I especially liked the pictures taken at Disneyland. Uncle Aaron bought them 3 day passes and they had a blast riding all of the rides, even Tyler. Sarah said she gave in while they were visiting the Sasse's in Arizona and let Tyler go swimming. The first time in over a year. That was really fun!

While we were there, Conner and Tyler enjoyed hanging out, playing video games and playing games. We did take a visit to the Puppy Corral to see all of the adorable puppies. We wanted to buy one but thought we better not make an impulsive buy we may regret later. We also had fun eating at Sticks, a Japanese hibachi style restaurant. The blazing fire disturbed Christian so Charles had to hide his eyes. We returned home late Saturday night. We were sad to leave. We are hoping that they will be coming to Louisville soon.

Monday morning Tyler will go to the hospital to get a pet scan to determine if the cancer has spread any where else in his body. We need to pray for complete healing and that the cancer has been removed from his body. He was taken off of antibiotics this week, so he needs prayer that his leg will continue to heal properly without any infections. If he were to get an infection in his leg, he will need 2 surgeries to replace the metal rod in his leg. Another prayer request! The doctors said that he should be safe after about 10 days of being off the antibiotics.

I know we need to ask God for his miracles to be revealed and not hope that they will be. So earnestly ask God for a miracle for Tyler. He cares and loves us so and I know he loves Tyler!

Stay close, Kim

Vacation News

2009-06-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

Monday, June 28
It has been a while since I have updated everyone on Tyler. Hopefully everyone was aware that the family has taken a 3 week vacation to get away, make good memories, visit family and friends in Arizona and California.

Their journey began on June 16th when they flew from Memphis to Los Angles, California. They stayed there for about 5 days in a hotel. They visited friends and they went to Disneyland (and Sarah lost her camera). Tyler did great and has been feeling good. He can walk much better and without much help. The weather was wonderful and they enjoyed their time in LA.

They left LA on Saturday and drove to Tuscon, Arizona, where they lived for several years. They have been there since, staying with their good friends, Lesley and Greg Sasse. Their son Tyler, and our Tyler went to elementary school together and they have been great friends ever since. It has been very hot in Arizona as it should be, it's summertime! They have been blessed though. They have done some pretty amazing things and every time they have planned an event, God has arranged a cooler day. Some of the fun things they have enjoyed include: a picnic in the mountains at Push Ridge Riding stables. The kids went fishing and caught 1 fish and a lot of crayfish. Another day they took a horse drawn hay ride through the dessert and Sarah treated her AZ friends to a southern meal, pulled pork sandwiches and sweet tea. It was a real treat for them. They also went on a tour of a cave at Colossal Caves. Unfortunately they didn't realize there were so many steps (364 to be exact) and it was tough on Tyler. He made it through though. They also had fun as gemstone sleuths at the caves. Water runs down through channels and the kids used mesh plates to sift through the sand to find gems, crystals and fools gold. They have truly enjoyed their time with their friends and Sarah's sisters.

They will return by car tomorrow to Los Angeles stopping in Palm Springs to have dinner with Sarah's grandmother. They will pick up Glen (Sarah's dad) at the airport and check into the Hilton in Los Angeles for the remainder of their vacation. This next week includes meeting a lot of old friends at Knotts Berry farm, going to the beach and a big 4th of July celebration and reunion with alot of Glen's side of the family (the Akiyama's). The family will fly back to Memphis on July 7th.

Tyler has felt good while they have been there. They did have a scare a week after they arrived. His leg started swelling and turning red. He had a fever of 99.9 so Sarah called St. Jude! St. Jude said to watch him closely and take him to the hospital if it rises above 100.3. Charles slept with Tyler that night and they prayed hard that God would work a miracle on Tyler so that they could remain on vacation and he wouldn't have to go to the hospital. The next morning Tyler woke up, his fever was gone and the swelling was gone. Isn't our God so good!!!!!!!

There are several specific prayers we have for the family: Pray for Tyler to remain healthy on this trip. Pray Tyler will gain weight as he has grown and needs to add some pounds. He is 5 foot 9 and weighs only 96 pounds. His body is frail and he needs a hefty appetite to put those pounds on. Pray for Sarah and Charles to feel God's peace and not to be fearful. They need freedom from that spirit of fear and the unknown. Pray for Charles and Sarah's extended family. They desire for them to know the Lord and for their hearts to be changed and for God to work miracles in their hearts. Pray for safety as they drive tomorrow and fly home. Pray God will bless them during the remainder of their vacation. Mostly pray for a miracle to happen in Tyler's life. For him to be cancer free and completely healed and healthy again. He will have a chest ct scan and other tests on July 14th. They are very anxious about these tests.

I am certain there is power in prayer and there is power in persistent prayer. Keep them flowing upwards to heaven for Tyler and his family who we love so much.

Stay close,Kim

Tyler's Home and Feeling Good

2009-06-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

Monday, June 8

Since Tyler has returned home he has been bored! He had so much fun when he was in Louisville, since he returned back to Memphis he hasn't had much to do. He spends his time reading, watching movies or tv and hanging out with his brothers. He misses his friends. He had physical therapy 3 times last week and only twice more before they leave for vacation. The family is very excited to visit family and friends in California and Arizona. Tyler is feeling great and his leg is doing well. Pray he will continue to get stronger, his leg will heal quickly and he will have an amazing time on his vacation.

The Hanson's had a visit from Gina, Lauren and Megan Foster yesterday. The Fosters were on their way to Jackson, Mississippi and stopped for the night in Memphis for a quick visit with the Hanson's. It was short but very sweet. They plan on stopping again n their return back to Louisville. The Hanson's love to see their friends from Louisville. Conner and I were planning on going down for a few days this week but unfortunately I have experienced some back problems and can't get behind the wheel for a few days. We plan on visiting them when they return from California.

Lift the family up in your prayers as they enjoy their family these next few weeks and for a healthy Tyler!

Stay close! Kim

Refreshed and Renewed!

2009-06-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

Once again our family is overwhelmed by the love, prayers and support that we have received from our family in Christ. What an awesome group of individuals you all are! I wish I had the words to explain to you how much all of your caring has meant to our family. Charles and I have a hard time comprehending how so many people could do so much for one family. You have all gone above and beyond. And we know that behind it all is God's driving force that we would all love one another as he loves us. We see His light and love shining through in all of your faces. I pray that many people would see your example and follow your lead in helping others.

Every time we leave Louisville, we come away feeling refreshed, renewed, loved and full of joy. Tyler is giddy with happiness. You should see the smile on his face. Thank you all for not forgetting us and for continuing to hold us up in prayer. I know it has been a long journey. Thank you to all who contributed to the fund for our vacation. We are truly looking forward to a time for our family to get away and forget hospitals and doctors, to make some happy memories and visit friends and family. You all have such a generous spirit of giving.

We love you all so much. Thank you for all you have done. You are so precious to us and we truly hope it is God's plan for us to move back to Louisville soon so we can have an opportunity to get to know you all better and develop those life long friendships that are rooted in God's love. We hope that someday we will be able to stand beside you all and help you carry whatever burdens may come your way just as you have done for us.

I know you will all continue to pray. We truly feel God's peace. It is only with God that we are able to stand and face these trials without a heavy heart.

With Faith and Love,
Charles and Sarah

Tyler's in Louisville

2009-05-29T15:06:00.001-07:00

Friday, May 29

Tyler surprised everyone by coming to Christian Academy;'s 8th grade crossover yesterday. The family made the trip on Wednesday evening so that Tyler could spend this special day with his closest friends. His classmates hovered around him for pictures and to see and talk to him. Afterwards he and his dad went with the class to brunch. It was a great time for him to see a lot of his friends.

Later that evening Clay had a small group of guys over to celebrate and spend time with Tyler. They had a cook out and just hung out playing music and video games. Tyler was pretty tired and left to go to the Foster's. Jeff and Gina Foster graciously opened their home up fr them to stay at.

Today was another great day with friends. Tyler slept to noon (he was pretty tired after yesterday) and then met some friends at Max and Ermas for lunch. He later went shopping (in his borrowed wheelchair from Southeast) at the Summit.

Charles left early today to go back to Memphis. The rest of the family will stay in Louisville until Monday. We are so excited to see them. It has been great hanging out and spending time with them.

Stay close! Kim

Unshaken

2009-05-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

Monday, May 25

Tyler is home!!!!!! It is amazing to me that you can come home so quickly after such a serious operation. Tyler was actually released on Saturday afternoon. He spent 24 hours in ICU and then sent to a private room. The doctor's removed his epidural on Saturday and they were watching him closely to determine how much pain he would be in after it wore off. The problem was it didn't so they released Tyler to go home. Guess when the pain medicine wore off...in the car just before they arrived at home. Sarah said it was very difficult getting Tyler out of the car and into bed because his pain was excruciating. He remained in bed until this afternoon when he got up and was ready to go out for dinner. Sarah said he has been taken 2 differ net types of morphine every 2 hours but today he only had 1 dose which is great.

Tyler will go to the hospital tomorrow for them to check his lung. They had a drainage tube inserted during the surgery and for a few days afterwards, It is very important that there is not blood or fluid build up. He had a lung resection done which means they removed the part of the lung where the small tumor was and stapled it together. Sarah said his lung would regenerate after time. The 12 inch incision that was made for the surgery was glued back together ...no staples or stitches. The incision looks like a very large scar.

What does all of this mean? Tyler's cancer metastasized to his lung. The doctor's believe it may have been there from the very beginning but was really really small. When his chemo ended it then began to grow so that is why he had the surgery to remove it. He will have a chest CT scan in 2 months to determine if the the cancer is gone. The doctor's gave the family 3 options. The family decided to wait patiently and trust God that in 2 months the tests would be clear. Tyler will not be participating in physical therapy until he is completely out of pain. He will remain on antibiotics for a while longer.

The family plans on traveling to California and Arizona to visit family and friends in June. Please pray Tyler will remain strong and healthy so they can enjoy this trip. It has been a long time since they have been on a trip together and this is something they are really looking forward to.

God has a plan for Tyler and we will remain faithful and trust God with our special friend. Continue to hold the family up in prayers. They draw their strength from
Him and lean on us for support.

Stay close, Kim

Surgery

2009-05-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

Thursday, May 21
Tyler had surgery this morning around 11:00 am. Sarah called at 1:00 pm with the news. The spot was cancerous so the doctor's performed the thoracotomy. They removed a good size of his chest area to enable them to physically examine his lungs for additional spots. The good news is they found none. We offer praise for that news! Tyler will be in ICU for a few days to recover from this evasive sugery. He will be in a great deal of pain and will be medicated to relieve the pain. Sarah and Charles were meeting with the doctor's later for updates. They were anxious to see Tyler after the surgery. It is hard for a parent to see a child go through this type of surgery and situation and to be in this much pain.

We ask many questions when this happens to people we love. We don't know the answers. We do know that God's ways are not our ways and we must trust Him.

I will keep you posted as I learn more. In the meantime, please do not stop praying. "Don't give up, don't ever give up". Stay close! Kim

Surgery Scheduled

2009-05-20T05:59:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, May 20

Tyler is scheduled for surgery tomorrow (Thursday) at 10:00 am. Tyler's surgeon was not available to do the surgery until next Friday so another surgeon was asked to prevent Tyler from waiting any longer. The doctor will perform a thorascopy, which means he will remove the small spot from Tyler's lung and freeze the area while the tissue is taken to pathology to be checked to see if it is cancer. If it is not cancer, he will be sewn up and a week's recovery is expected. If the spot is cancerous, a thoracotomy will be performed. This is a much serious and involved surgery. The surgeon will actually remove part of his ribs and enter the lungs with his hands. He will feel around the lung for any small nodules. Evidently this is more precise than a chest ct scan. The recovery time will be more extensive. No news on what the treatment will be after he recovers from the surgery. The orthopedic surgeon has decided to postpone the surgery on his leg at this time.

Matthew 21:22 "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." Please take time to pray for Tyler tomorrow, ASK for healing and a successful surgery. Pray that his family feels HIS peace.

Stay close! Kim

CT Results

2009-05-18T18:46:00.000-07:00

Monday, May 18

Tyler had a chest ct scan today. The results showed that the spot grew. Four weeks ago the spot was 3mm and today it was 4mm. The family will meet with a surgeon tomorrow and they are planning to do the surgery within the week. The doctors believe that Tyler probably had the spot from the beginning but it was too small to detect. Now that Tyler is not receiving chemo anymore it has resumed growing. They do not know if the spot is cancer or not and will not know until a pathologist removes some of the tissue and checks it out. The surgery shouldn't be too difficult for Tyler. It should take a week to recover. He will also have scar tissue removed from his leg. His orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Neil, will perform the surgery so Tyler will not be in pain anymore when he bends his knee and has physical therapy. Tyler is excited not to be in pain anymore.

Tyler has unshakable faith and has a peace about the surgery. We need to continue to lift the family up in prayers. I am so proud of Tyler and his attitude and witness to others. He has been through so much but still remains upbeat.

Tyler had a wonderful visit with Clay, Jake, Trent, Ben, Sarah and Jenna this past weekend. They brightened his day and they had a lot of fun hanging out and laughing. They enjoyed looking through the Cal yearbook. Tyler's friends caught him up on all the news from Louisville. Tyler looked great. He had gained 20 pounds and his hair was growing in and much darker. He was very guarded with his leg and protected it as best he could.

If you want to encourage the family, please send them a card. Their address is: 10704 Quiet Cove Collierville, TN 38017.

Thanks for your support and prayers. Where would we be without our Father to lean on.

Stay close! Kim

Fun Day in Nashville

2009-05-16T05:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 16
Sarah is on her way to Nashville this morning to meet Jill Finnesand and a van load of Tyler's friends. Since it is a 6 hour drive to Memphis, Sarah is meeting Jill half way in Nashville for the day. His friends are surprising Tyler and will spend the day hanging out. Yearbooks were handed out on Thursday at CAL and Mrs. Martel, yearbook teacher, gave Tyler a copy. A lot of his 8th grade friends and teachers signed it yesterday. I know he will enjoy reading all of the comments from his friends. Mrs. McFarren got a basketball signed by Coach Pitino (U of L's basketball coach)to send to him also.

Tyler will head to the hospital on Monday for his chest ct scan. We will wait patiently for the results. The last 2 days were dedicated in prayer to Tyler. The school couldn't promote the fasting for the students because of the late notice and the meals already prepared in the cafeteria. However, there was a water main break and students were required to bring sack lunches because the cafeteria was closed(doesn't God have perfect timing). It was very convenient for students not to eat and just go into class rooms at lunch and pray for Tyler. Many of the teachers opened their classes up so the students could pray for him. At chapel we prayed again and on our knees. The power of prayer is mighty and I know God is listening. Thanks to everyone who participated in fasting or praying for Tyler. God's will be done!

Stay close! Kim

Fast and Pray

2009-05-11T15:04:00.000-07:00

Monday, May 11

Tyler is feeling great! Sarah said Tyler looks and feels better than he has in a long time. He is maneuvering around on only 1 crutch and putting weight on his leg when he walks. His hair is coming in "Mohawk" style. He is remaining on oral antibiotics until they get the results of his next chest ct scan which will be next week. They have waited patiently for 3 weeks when they received the news that there was a small spot on Tyler's lung. The spot is only 3 millimeters and is located on the outside on the bottom of his right lung. The doctor's are confident that if the spot is still there in another week they can successfully remove it. The surgery is called thoracotomy. The surgery would be a major surgery where they would be removing the part of his lung where the spot is located. Sarah and Charles have been in constant prayer since they learned the news a few weeks ago. They have a peace and can feel the prayers from everyone.

I want to suggest a special day of fasting and prayer for Tyler. We need to ask as many people as possible to pray that this spot will disappear and Tyler will be cured of his cancer. The family is so ready to get on with a normal life. They would love to move back to Louisville and be surrounded by all of their friends again. Thursday and Friday are designated days to fast and pray earnestly for Tyler. If we pick one or the other of the days to pray and fast, Tyler will be covered in prayer for a 48 hour period. We know the power of prayer and we know that all things are possible with God!

I wanted to share the final total raised from the Christian Academy St. Jude fundraiser.......$52,854.50. Isn't that amazing...God is good! Thanks to everyone who participated.

Thanks for your support and prayers. The family truly couldn't make it without them.

Stay close! Kim

Waiting and praying

2009-04-28T17:43:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, April 28

The Hanson's enjoyed a restful quiet weekend. They especially enjoyed Sunday. They went to church and later went to the park with their friends. The kids played on the playground and the adults played Scrabble and enjoyed the beautiful weather. Sarah said the sermon was just what she needed to hear. The sermon was on knowing that God has a plan and his plan is perfect. Psalm 23 was the scripture the sermon was based on. Look up this verse if you don't know it. The Lord is our shepherd and we are his sheep. We are to be obedient followers and follow the One who will lead us to the right places and in the right ways.

On Monday, Tyler was back to the hospital for a endoscopy. They looked down his throat, esophagus and into his stomach. He has a sore at the base of his esophagus and opening to his stomach that hasn't healed. The doctor took a biopsy of it and will treat him with medication. His surgeon will return at the end of the week and he will be taken off of his antibiotics next week for his leg. We want his leg to be free of infection and heal completely. The family will have to patiently wait for a few weeks for more tests to determine what the spot was on his lung. We can offer our help by continuing to pray for complete healing and removal of that spot. Take time each day to send prayers up to heaven on Tyler's behalf! We know and understand the power of prayer.

Enjoy each day and have no regrets especially when it comes to your family. Tell them you love them and spend time with them. There is nothing more important than family and aren't we blessed that we are a part of God's family and He loves us so much! Stay close! Kim

Prayer Time Again

2009-04-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, April 22

Tyler endured 3 long days of major testing. They arrived each day by 7:00 am and left around 5:00. Today the doctor gave them the results. Unfortunately they weren't the results we were hoping to hear. Tyler's Chest CT scan showed a small spot on his lung. While this is alarming, they have heard it 2 times before. The first time, after a second CT scan, the spot disappeared and the 2nd time it was 2 veins so this could again be nothing. Tyler needs serious prayer though to assure that it isn't cancer that has spread to his lung. The bad news for the family is they have to wait 4 long weeks until they will do another chest CT scan. We need to earnestly pray that there is NO cancer because if there is, a major surgery would be needed. The family is in shock but Tyler is optimistic and we can be also. We know a GOD so powerful and merciful who can remove anything, anytime and anywhere!

Tyler's leg is still a concern also. He has been working hard at physical therapy. While he has been walking a lot, it is very sore and he has some pain. Unfortunately his surgeon is out of the country on a 2 week vacation so nothing will be done until he returns except physical therapy. He remains on antibiotics and there is some swelling but it could be because he is working so hard. He was taken off of his nutrients (TPN) and has lost 3 pounds this week so the doctor is going to run a gastric scope of his esophagus and stomach on Monday. He has to be at the hospital tomorrow but will have Friday, Saturday and Sunday off. Thank you God for that!!!!!!

I know Charles and Sarah must feel a little defeated today after the news from the doctor especially since they were expecting good news. Ask your family , friends, and church to pray for our friend Tyler to be healed. Pray for the family as they cope with the news they received today. We know that God has a plan for this family and we have to trust him with that plan.

Stay Close! Kim

Feeling Good

2009-04-15T17:58:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, April 16
Tyler is getting antsy! He wants to get off of his crutches and take off. Yes, it is time for Tyler to walk again. He is working hard to strengthen his leg so he can walk without crutches. He is working hard on school work also. He needs prayer though that when he is taken off of antibiotics next week his leg will not need surgery. If he does, it will take all summer for him to recover and rehabilitate.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of next week will be nothing but tests, tests, tests. Every part of his body will be tested. He will have a pet scan, cat scan, MRI, echo and EKG, audiology tests, kidney tests and many more. The doctors want to make sure his body isn't damaged in any way from the chemo. They also want to make sure that the cancer is completely gone from his body. We know it will be!!!!!! We can't wait to hear the results.

Stay close, Kim

Tyler Hanson Hair Club Day

2009-04-07T16:48:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, April 7
Christian Academy of Louisville sponsored a fundraiser for St Jude Children's Research Hospital yesterday in honor of Tyler. They gave it the name "Tyler Hanson Hair Club Day". Students were allowed to grow their hair out and have it either shaved or cut to raise money. The outpouring of love for Tyler was amazing. All four of our television stations were present filming clips which aired last night. Many students were filmed either talking or getting their hair shaved or cut. Banners, posters, and balloons filled the gym. Eighteen hair stylists and barbers volunteered their time to shave heads and cut hair. If girls could grow their hair long enough to cut 8 inches off, the hair was donated to Pantene to be used to make wigs for cancer patients. Many parents were there to volunteer and take pictures. The U of L men's soccer team and Coach Lolla were present to sweep hair and perform soccer tricks. It was a day to remember. Donations are due to school by April 15th and we can't wait to see how much money was donated. Several students raised over $1000. The top amount is reported to be $1725 collected by Mark Highbaugh, a current 8th grade student and classmate of Tyler's. Thank you to all who donated!!!!God can do amazing things through us. Since this is a special time of the year for Christians, the school felt it was perfect timing for the fundraiser. God sacrificed his son for us so it was only fitting that our students sacrifice something they love, their hair for Tyler. What a great day and memory!

A big thank you goes out to all who volunteered to work that day especially the hair stylists and barbers. Several closed their shop to attend! Thank you to Johnny Mac, the Southeast middle school youth pastor for emceeing the program. Also thank you Gina Foster, Tina Lolla, Gary Mounce and Marla Highbaugh for organizing this event. Dr. Tran provided hats (see picture above). Hats were given to all students who participated in this event. And finally a thank you goes out to Ned and Joan Way for providing entertainment in the afternoon to the middle school. The have a great outreach program called "No Way" that provided quality entertainment and ministry. Check out their website at: http://www.noway.org/

Unfortunately Tyler couldn't be at the fundraiser yesterday but he was able to watch video clips via the Internet of the television interviews. He wasn't feeling very well yesterday and spent the entire day in bed. Today, however, he feels so much better and was going to watch the Memphis Grizzlies play (NBA basketball team) tonight. He has to go to the hospital 3 times a week now for physical therapy and school. The doctor's are leaving him on antibiotics for at least 2 more weeks until the chemo is completely cleared from his body. He will have more extensive physical therapy for his leg. The redness is gone but there is still some slight swelling. We are praying that the swelling will go down quickly. Tyler we are so proud of all your hard work, endurance and perseverance. Keep it up because we love you and can't wait until you are 100% again!

Stay close! Kim

Saying Goodbye was Tough

2009-04-04T09:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday, April 4
Our visit in Memphis was amazing. God really did HIS stuff. Tyler felt pretty bad on Wednesday, which was his last chemo treatment. He really didn't remember much of it either. On Thursday he looked great. He had color in his cheeks and his was up and moving around at his house. We were able to spend the afternoon and evening with him and his family. His Aunt Debi fixed a delicious Asian meal and we had cookie cake to celebrate. I loved the wall in their kitchen. It use to have numbers lining the wall and after chemo a number was torn down. The only thing on the wall now is "NO MO CHEMO"! Conner got to spend the night with Tyler and they even slept upstairs, which meant Tyler used his crutches to go up the stairs. We picked up Conner so we could head back to Louisville and Tyler headed to the hospital. It was sad to leave on Friday but we plan to see them again real soon!

Tyler has had to go to the hospital every morning since chemo to be checked. The good news is the methotrexate is out of his system and his numbers are good but unfortunately he started throwing up yesterday and has been since. That makes me sad. The methotrexate causes mucousitus and he develops a thick mucous coating which gags him and causes him to throw up. We cannot wait for this to be over. No more throwing up and no more pink bucket! I saw him use that big pink bucket in the hospital and I know they never want to see "pink" again.

Tyler's friend from Arizona, Tyler, is flying in today so pray he will feel better so he can enjoy his time with his friend. We are looking forward to a stronger, healthier Tyler soon!

The ride home from Memphis reminded me of God's beautiful creation and his perfect timing. Be thankful for his precious gifts especially the gift of life!

God Bless! Stay Close! Kim

NO MO CHEMO

2009-04-01T18:20:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, April 1

This is no April's Fool Joke. Tyler finished his last chemo treatment today at 2:30pm. Bruce, Conner and I had the privilege to be in Memphis at St Jude Hospital to celebrate and take part in the occasion. All of Tyler's nurse's came into his room along with his family (Charles, Sarah, Christian, Elijah and Glen)and his Aunt Debbie and Uncle Steve from Panama City to sing a silly song. They showered him with confetti and brought him balloons that said "NO MO CHEMO". His empty bag of chemo was thrown in the trash as we applauded gleefully.

We are looking forward to brighter days ahead. We pray that this was a successful treatment and there are NO more cancer cells remaining in Tyler's body. He will be checked out later this month to make sure that all the cancer cells are gone and that his organs are healthy. He will be taken off antibiotics in the next week or two
and hopefully his leg will be able to fight off the infection and he will not need surgery. We must wait and pray!

II Corinthians talks about comfort in time of sorrow and we can accomplish this because God's grace is sufficient and His strength is made perfect in our weaknesses. We pray that Tyler will feel God's strength and rely on that to pull him through these last few weeks of treatment. It has been a long, tough road and we look forward to a healthy young man returning to a life full of fun. Tyler has missed out on a lot of fun things these past 11 months. I look forward to seeing him and his family return to a normal way of living. One that doesn't include driving every day to a hospital, eating hospital food or not eating at all, laying in a hospital bed, throwing up countless times a day, watching him sleep for hours and hours at a time and just feeling so lousy that he can't get out of bed for days. We take normal days for granted and we say we are bored with life sometimes. Maybe each of us should have to endure a day like Tyler has had to endure, then we may all look at life differently.

Visiting St Jude hospital today was enlightening. What a wonderful place Danny Thomas founded so many years ago. He made a promise to God and fulfilled that promise with St Jude hospital. I challenge everyone to go online to read about the history of St Jude. There are so many lives that are touched and so many lives that have been saved because of this special hospital. We had the opportunity to deliver several boxes of toys that were donated by first grade students at Christian Academy. The hospital staff was so appreciative of the donations. We saw several young children playing with toys and making crafts to pass the time while they were receiving treatment. They had IV's attached as they were sitting at a table coloring, making a necklace or playing with a toy. I know these donations will be used to cheer a young person's life.

Continue to pray for this family and know you that these prayers have carried this family through. Stay close! Kim

The Last Chemo is so Close

2009-03-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

Saturday, March 28

Tyler is feeling a little better this week but still has a lot of sores and mucositus as a result of his previous chemo treatment. His doctor's had planned on administering his last treatment today but his body has not completely recovered. He needs to be free of his sores before he can have his next treatment. The doctors will check him out Tuesday and if they feel he is strong enough he will have his last chemo on Wednesday. Our family will be in Memphis on Wednesday for a visit as we don't want to see him sick we can't wait to celebrate his last treatment. Since he will have his last treatment next week, Tyler will not be coming to Louisville for the fundraiser event at Christian Academy.

Tyler has family in town this week. His aunt and uncle from Destin, Florida came for the week. His friend, Tyler, from Arizona is flying into Memphis on Friday to spend a few days with him while he is on spring break. The McFarlands, from Louisville, stopped and spent the night last night at the Hanson's on their way down south. The family is excited to see family and friends. Charles was not working this weekend and was able to visit with them.

It is so exciting to be a friend of this family. They are so special and have so many friends all over the United States who have been praying for them and especially for Tyler. Many of these friends they have never met. Thank you for being on this journey with the family. God leads us and always has the perfect plan even though we sometimes don't know what that plan is. Continue to pray for the Hanson's as they listen for God's plan and guidance for their lives. As followers of Him we rely on His grace and mercy to lead us down the right path.

Stay close! Kim

It's Been A Long Week

2009-03-20T13:54:00.001-07:00

Friday, March 20

Tyler has had a tough week. It had started so good after the chemo treatment but he had a delayed reaction to the treatment. He had to go to the hospital Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and was so sick throwing up. On Wednesday after he returned home from the hospital he went straight to bed. He couldn't get out of bed because he was so weak. Sarah said he was "green". Today at 11:00 he finally starting feeling better and his color was better. The weather is beautiful in Memphis so I hope that helps Tyler feel better. He is scheduled for his last chemo treatment next Tuesday but Sarah wants another week off. She is concerned he will get mucositus again and will have to be hospitalized. She is hoping Tyler's doctor's will agree to wait until April 8Th for his last treatment so the family can come to Louisville for the big "hair event" at Christian Academy. We hope so too!

Charles has been busy this week. He started a new job and the family is thankful for the job. There is a new car dealership opening and Charles was hired to start up the operation. He is hiring, training and running the business. Good luck Charles!!

Tyler received a package of fun stuff this week to cheer him up. His 8Th grade friends sent him a candy poster and funny St. Patrick Day cards. Sarah said they definitely made him laugh. He has crazy friends and one really crazy teacher that loves him a lot! Thank you friends for continuing to send cards and love. May God bless you and keep you!

Stay close! Kim

Next to Last Chemo Treatment

2009-03-13T13:45:00.000-07:00

Friday, March 13

Tyler is currently at the hospital have his next to last chemo treatment administered. We pray it goes as smoothly as his last one which was a couple of weeks ago. He is having this treatment as an outpatient so he should be home around 10:00 tonight. Pray he feels good and he doesn't start throwing up. f he can handle this treatment his last one will be next Friday. We can't wait to celebrate with him and his family.

Tyler is scheduled to have extensive testing the week of April 20Th. Every test possible will be given to him to check his body out from top to bottom. The results of the tests will determine if he has to continue with chemo or not. In other words, has the cancer appeared anywhere else. We will be praying this is a big NO! He will have to have extensive physical treatment on his leg and hopefully after chemo his infections will disappear so he doesn't have to have further surgeries on his leg. We will wait patiently. What a long road it has been. At times it appeared God had disappeared but really He was carrying them through this trial. What a comfort to know He is always there for us!

Tonight there is a special assembly at Christian Academy in honor of Tyler. A high school teacher, John Park, is talking on the value of families and he will sketch a picture in chalk. John has spent the last few weeks painting a portrait of Tyler that he will have on display tonight. It is a gift for the family. I have seen the portrait and it is a wonderful portrait of a very handsome young man. Donations are being accepted at the door that will be given to St. Jude Hospital in honor of Tyler. I am looking forward to an uplifting evening. The evening will be taped for the Hanson's.

Thanks for the continued prayers! Stay close! Kim

Spring Break

2009-03-08T16:46:00.000-07:00

Sunday, March 8

The doctor's gave Tyler the green light to go to Florida this week for spring break. Sarah said she didn't feel comfortable about going. Something was telling her not to go so they decided to remain in Memphis. Friday night Tyler developed a low grade fever and Saturday he had a headache. Sarah was glad they decided not to go to Florida. It wouldn't be too much fun going to the hospital in Florida, especially a hospital that wouldn't know how to treat Tyler. The family knew they could find things to do in Memphis. They came up with a plan everyone agreed on to have fun. Saturday they went to the Botanical Gardens to see the exhibits and eat lunch. Tyler didn't feel well after lunch and went to the car to lie down. On the drive home, they had to pull over for him to throw up. Yuck! Every night they are going somewhere special to eat and everyone gets a choice. They drew numbers to see who went on what day. Tyler picked Bahama Breeze, Elijah's choice was P F Changs, Christian chose Chuck E Cheese's, Sarah chose Carrabas and Charles chose pizza. Since it is going to be a gloomy, rainy week eating out doesn't sound too bad.

Tyler's leg is looking better so the doctor's said there is a 50/50 chance of him not having surgery. They will keep him on the high doses of antibiotics until after chemo. He will then begin a more rigorous physical therapy for his leg and they will then take him off of the antibiotics. If his leg responds positively no surgery, if he has swelling and infection, surgery. We will have to wait. His next to last chemo session will be the latter part of the week. The family wanted a few fun days before he went to the hospital again. Pray for a healthy Tyler this week and a smooth-sailing chemo treatment.

Stay close! Kim

Specific Prayer Needs

2009-03-04T16:59:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, March 4
It has been an emotional 2 days for Tyler. His main doctor, Dr. Dow, had to have a serious talk with him and that has Tyler feeling down. Tyler's leg has improved since he had the procedure to wash it out but the doctor told Tyler yesterday that if the infection in his leg isn't kept under control, it may have to be amputated. Hearing this news just made Tyler extremely upset. He has been emotionally down anyway and this sure didn't help his mood. Amputation was discussed at the beginning of his treatment and could happen but several of his doctor's feel that this won't be the case for Tyler. Dr. Dow is a very intelligent doctor and quite skilled but doesn't have the same bedside manner as Tyler's other doctor's.

Tyler will return to the hospital tomorrow and Friday. He will have his usual tests to check his counts, his liver enzymes, scans, physical therapy and school. Tyler's liver enzymes were high earlier in the week and he has had headaches this week also. Dr. Dow wants Tyler to remain in town and not travel to Florida and continue with chemo next week. He is very fragile and it is not worth the risk to travel so she wants to continue with the chemo treatment next week to get it over with and behind him so he can get his strength back. His leg cannot recover until his chemo is completely finished. She will make the decision on Friday.

Tyler needs specific prayer for: the 2 remaining chemo treatments to completely annihilate every cancer cell in his body, for the infection in his leg to completely heal so he doesn't have to have his prosthesis replaced, and for Tyler to feel encouragement and purpose. Sarah and Charles need specific prayer for their family's future. They feel the desire to return to Louisville but they need to hear from God that this is His will.

Sarah said tonight that she is so thankful for St. Jude Hospital but it has been so difficult for Tyler to be so far away from his close friends. It is so important to have friends to lean on when you go through a difficult time. They are very thankful for all the support but there are days when Tyler doesn't have anyone to talk to or hang out with that is his age. We count the days when he is well and is living in Louisville again. God is the Healer and the door out of this sickness and situation.

Stay close. Kim

God Listens

2009-02-27T16:45:00.000-08:00

Friday, February 27

I love when I call Sarah and she answers the phone in such a good mood. I always can tell by her voice if it is a good day or not. Today is a good day!

Tyler was admitted to the hospital on Wednesday and administered chemo. The doctor's agreed it would benefit him by remaining in the hospital for this chemo session. They were right! He slept all day Wednesday and woke up only once during the night and threw up. He woke up the next morning ready to go. Sarah said they got out of the room (very unusual) and played games, watched movies and even ate McDonald's. No throwing up!!! Today was even better. He woke up and said I am ready to go home. Home they went! Sarah said it was amazing how well he did this time. What a difference it makes when Tyler feels good and looks good. His hair is growing out. It is darker than normal and looks as though it has been cut with a #1 razor. They haven't seen him with hair in a long time. His hair will continue to grow because the methotrexate treatments don't affect his hair. It will be great to see Tyler with hair again!

Tyler will be off for 2 weeks to get his strength back and his weight up. The family will enjoy having normal days. They may visit their aunt and uncle down south next week when Elijah is on spring break.

God has been so faithful and has provided the family when they have been in need. God's handprint has been on this family from the beginning and will remain until the end of this journey. The stories that the Hanson's will share after it is over, will show God's perfect timing. God is perfect! Thank you friends for your continued support and prayers. It is so evident to the family that God is listening!

Stay close! Kim

Another Round of Chemo

2009-02-25T10:43:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, February 25

Charles took Tyler to the hospital early this morning for chemo. They decided to admit him for this round since he has been so very sick with the last few. The high dose of methotrexate usually only takes 4 hours to infuse but the doctors want to keep a close eye on him and hopefully this will keep his nausea under control better. Please pray that God will protect all of Tyler's linings and for Tyler's spirits to remain up. He woke up at 3:00 am very anxious about today's chemo and asked his mom for some nausea medicine because his stomach hurt. I can't imagine what Tyler must be feeling or going through. This has been so hard for Charles and Sarah to see him be so weak when he has been so strong! He has been an amazing patient and I think the toll is finally hitting him hard. Please pray also that Tyler will have an easy round of chemo and the doctor's and nurse's will be especially sensitive to his needs.

The test results were negative for the stricture in his esophagus and that is why they are continuing chemo. As for Tyler's leg, not such good news. They will keep him on strong antibiotics until chemo is finished and after that they will probably replace his prosthesis. How sad is that. Poor Tyler won't be able to rejoice with the fact that he has finally finished chemo because he will then be faced with this serious surgery. My heart is broken. I have faith though that God will turn his leg prognosis around and that he will not have to have that surgery!

If you feel the nudge to send Tyler or his family a card of encouragement, his address is:
10104 Quiet Cove
Collierville, TN 38017

Stay Close! Kim

Still Need Prayers

2009-02-23T14:45:00.000-08:00

Monday, February 23

While Tyler enjoyed his family this weekend by eating out and going to the movies, today it is back to the hospital. He will try to get the barium down so the doctor's can get the image they need of his esophagus. This test will determine if he will continue chemotherapy. They should have the results tomorrow. His leg isn't looking too good. It started swelling at the end of last week. He hasn't spiked a fever yet so they are hopeful it isn't infected again. That would mean the antibiotics aren't working and they may have to replace his prosthesis. That would not be good news. Tyler just needs your prayers for his body and his spirit to be renewed.

Tyler had a fundraiser this weekend and he didn't know anything about it. The Aroh family reserved a gym at a local church and invited friends to come and play dodge ball, bug out and basketball. They were encouraged to bring a donation for the Hanson family. Karen will send the money raised to the family to help them with their expenses. Thanks for your thoughtfulness Aroh family!

I am thankful for friends, family and a God we can count on when we need his help! Stay close!
Kim

Hi from Ty

2009-02-18T12:43:00.000-08:00

Hey guys its Tyler just postin' to say how i've been doin lately and well its not to spectacular or " super duper". The past week i was throwing up alot cause of all the meds the docs are given me but im better now. I threw up today during my x-ray (i threw up on the machine haha) cause they make you drink this sick, chalky drink called barium. Its been the second time i've had to drink it and i have to do it again on monday cause apparently they didnt get the pics they wanted. Im excited that so many people are shaving and cutting their hair to raise money for St. Jude. Thank you for the Valentines package that Mrs. McFarren sent full of cards it was awesome. Conner i just wanted to say to you that the video you sent was hilarious. I hope everyone is doing well.

Is It Time To Stop Chemo

2009-02-18T11:01:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, February 18

Tyler was at the hospital most of the day yesterday having tests done. There was no decision made yet on whether he will continue chemotherapy or not. They will have to wait for his main doctor and the gastroentologist to look at xrays taken of his esophagus. He could have a stricture. If that is the case they will stop all chemo. If there isn't a stricture, he will probably continue chemo either tomorrow or next week.

I will keep you posted. In the mean time, keep the prayers flowing upward!

Stay Close! Kim

Too Much Medicine

2009-02-17T13:59:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, February 17

Finally Tyler has stopped throwing up. Yesterday was the first day in 9 days that he didn't get sick. It was like clockwork. He would get sick every 2-3 hours and we are glad that is over at least for now. Tyler went to the hospital today to be checked out by his doctors. They will decide if he is to continue chemo. If they decide yes, he will have it tomorrow. He still has the sores down his esophagus and that will not clear up until he is done with chemo.

Tyler should have been in the hospital these past 9 days but the family really wanted him home. Since he has the horrible sores in his esophagus, all of his medicines are given through his port in his chest. This means that every hour to hour and a half either Sarah or Charles are administering his med's intravenously. What I didn't realize is that if you have more than 3, and Tyler is on 7, he has to be in the hospital. Sarah and Charles are so good at playing nurse that the hospital allowed them to have Tyler at home. It is definitely more comfortable for Tyler and it is easier on the family. What an ordeal for Sarah and Charles almost every hour administering, changing or checking on some time of medicine. That is incredible to me! I know how exhausted I am when I have a sick child home for a day or two. This has been going on for how long? Continue to hold up the family in your prayers. They truly rely on them for their strength!

Stay Close! Kim

Sick, Sick, SICK

2009-02-12T16:49:00.000-08:00

Thursday, February 12

When is the last time you had the stomach flu? The constant throwing up and hovering over the toilet (or bucket). Can you imagine having it non stop for 7 days? I cannot! Poor Tyler has not stopped throwing up. In fact he is throwing up about every 2 hours, even when he is sleeping he will wake up and throw up. Sarah said it hit her last night as she laid on her air mattress next to the bed Tyler was sleeping in. As he was throwing up she just started crying. She just couldn't stop. She climbed into bed and put her arms around Tyler and just held him tight! How much more can he take? She plead with God to make him well and take the pain away. Sarah wants the chemo to be over. She talked with Dr. Mauer and they discussed that it might be time to stop.

Even though Tyler was not admitted to the hospital , he has had to go every day. He had the scope done of his esophagus. The test reveled his esophagus to his stomach is completely raw. There were no sporadic sores it was one huge sore. No wonder he hasn't eaten in weeks and is in so much pain. This has to be a specific prayer. His body is so fragile right now and they don't know how much more he can take. His body is having serious problems from scarring and it is preventing his body to heal. He has lost more weight and he is on too much medication. It just isn't good news! Please God renew Tyler's physical strength, heal his body and take his pain away! Sometimes we just don't know what or how to pray. It is comforting to know that the Holy Spirit does and intercedes for us.

Romans 8:26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weaknesses. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us.

Thank you for your faithfulness and prayers! I have faith it will be over soon for Tyler!

Stay close! Kim

Home At Last

2009-02-08T17:48:00.001-08:00

Sunday, February 8

After 16 days in the hospital, Tyler finally got to come home last night. Unfortunately he rode home with his famous pink bucket throwing up all the way. It was a rough night, as Tyler spent most of it being sick. Thankfully today he wasn't throwing up but feeling not so good. He did get up for a while and even sat outside and read a book. The weather was nice in Memphis and the temperature was around 65. Tyler hit the sack early tonight around 7:00.

He will be up early tomorrow to return to St. Jude for blood draws to check his counts. He is scheduled with a gastro doctor to have a scope of his esophagus. Since he has had mucositus so often the doctor's want to examine that area. He is in constant pain when he swallows and eats so they want to make sure everything is OK. The chemo just makes his whole body a wreck. We are counting the days until this is over. He is scheduled for his next round on Thursday if he is healthy enough. Pray he is, so they can continue the count down. You are so close Tyler, HANG IN THERE!!!!!

We love the Hanson family!!! Keep the faith! Stay close!
Kim

Chemo Again

2009-02-05T13:22:00.000-08:00

Thursday, February 5

Tyler remains in the hospital. The doctor's decided not to give Tyler a week off so he was having a chemo treatment today. Since he hasn't been very healthy they are keeping him admitted to keep a close watch on him. Usually when he has methotrexate, it is given as an out patient treatment. He is still recovering from his surgery though so he isn't completely well. He has been up and walking today. He was in a great deal of pain from the surgery, but the pain is under control today. The good news he has only 3 more treatments. You have NO idea how quickly they want these treatments to end!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today at Christian Academy, the middle school kicked off a fundraiser for St, Jude in honor of Tyler. Mr. Mounce, the assistant principal, laid out the rules to participate. They watched a video that Charles and Tyler made about a day at St. Jude. Students, teachers and even parents are encouraged to participate in the fundraiser. They have the opportunity to raise money by getting pledges to either get their hair cut or shaved. There were 100 packets available and they were gone quickly and there were many requests for more. If you know a CAL student participating in this fundraiser, I know they would appreciate your help in raising money for this wonderful hospital where Tyler has spent a lot of time at for the last 9 months.

I know how much the Hanson family appreciates all your prayers and support. You have been a wonderful team of prayer warriors. Thanks but don't stop because he still needs those prayers. You're the best!!!!!

Stay close! Kim

Still in the Hospital

2009-02-03T13:42:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, February 3

Tyler remains at the hospital. He is experiencing pain from his knee surgery and is trying to wean off of the morphine. After he is off the pain medicine, he should be able to return home. He has been in the hospital to to long!!!!! Uncle Aaron spent the night at the hospital last night with Tyler. Tyler really enjoys hanging out with him. He is fun because they like the same movies and video games. We' re still praying for a speedy recovery even though at times I know you feel as though God isn't listening. I know He is and He cares!

Stay close! Kim

Out of Surgery

2009-01-31T11:13:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 31

Tyler is resting in his room after knee surgery this morning. The surgery lasted about 1 hour and was a success. Dr. Michael Neil, the surgeon that operated on his leg in September, performed the surgery. He made a 2 inch incision in his knee and washed it out with peroxide, added bead-like antibiotics, massaged the area to spread the antibiotics, drained the puss and then closed it up. The antibiotics are a time release type to help prevent any further infections. The infection occurred because of the amount of chemotherapy Tyler has received. The chemo breaks down his immune system so that his body cannot fight infections. This surgery should help Tyler make it through the remaining chemo treatments. Tyler didn't receive a pain block but has morphine for the pain. He compared the pain to his surgery in May at Kosair for the biopsy. That was very painful for several days. Please pray for pain free days and quick, complete healing!!!!!

Tyler will get a week rest before he starts another round of chemo. He will have 2 back-to-back weeks of methotrexate, a week of rest and 2 more back-to-back treatments. His treatment for the cancer will then be completed. If he can remain healthy enough to withstand the future weeks of chemo , he will be finished in about 6 weeks. Please pray for his body to respond to the chemo in a positive way and for his treatment to be completed soon.

Even when things are not going well, Sarah always reports something positive and encouraging. The family received encouragement from Elijah's school this week. Briarcrest Christian had a fundraiser for the family through a jeans day. They usually raise between $500-$600 but they raised over $3100 for the family. What a timely blessing! Since Charles hasn't been working for many months, that money was a Godsend! Gods timing is perfect!

Having Surgery

2009-01-31T07:05:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 31

Tyler has had a rough week. After being in the hospital for a while, he was finally released Thursday morning. His fever had broken and his knee had finally reduced in size. The doctor's changed his antibiotics and he was sent home. Twelve hours later, his fever was back, his knee was swelling again and he returned to the hospital. Evidently some of the antibiotics that were changed were ones he needed to keep infection down.

This morning about 30 minutes ago (9:30) he was taken to be prepped for surgery. Sarah believes they are only going to open his knee, wash it out, drain it, place antibiotics in it and then sew him up. They are trying to avoid his incision from his previous surgery since it is healing. Pray for Tyler and his family today. They are exhausted and feel so low. I know God is there every step of the way holding them tight. They need to feel his touch today!

I will keep you posted about his surgery. Stay close! Kim

Laying and Waiting

2009-01-26T16:42:00.000-08:00

Monday, January 26

Tyler is just laying in bed waiting for the doctor's to decide if he needed surgery today. By the end of the day they decided to wait. He still has a fever and his knee is still swollen but the lab results showed that he does not have a bacterial infection in his joints. His white blood counts rose to 600 so that might help him get some ammunition to help fight off whatever his body is battling. They believe it is celulitus. So they will wait to see if the antibiotics he is taking will eventually kill the infection and his swelling will go down.

Sarah was exhausted after spending 2 days in the hospital. She is hoping for a snow day tomorrow so she can sleep in. They are expecting a little snow but probably not as much as we are getting in Louisville. They don't get much snow in Memphis so just a little will put a halt to the city. Be safe guys!!!!!

Thanks for your prayers. Harriet Michael ( a parent from CAL) e-mailed this to me today: "There is power in prayer, there is power in persistent prayer, and there is power in the prayers of believers who agree together...so I will be agreeing with you in prayer for Tyler today". Amen!

Stay close. Kim

Tyler Needs Prayer

2009-01-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Sunday, January 25

Tyler's knee started swelling yesterday at noon and Sarah requested a doctor examine his leg. It took 8 hours before a doctor came to see him. Sarah was very angry that it took so long. Tyler's knee was the size of a grapefruit and he was and is in a lot of pain.

Finally, Tyler's surgeon came today and examined his leg. They drew fluid from his knee to determine if it is a bacterial infection is his joints. If it is Tyler will need surgery. The good news is they don't believe it has infected the bone. If it has, he would need to have his prosthesis removed and replaced. That was an extensive surgery back in September. If the tests reveal that he needs surgery, it will be to drain the fluids. Tyler was extremely upset after hearing the news from the surgeon today. Tyler asked these questions: Why doesn't God answer our prayers, Why does he have to suffer so much, When will this all end? I know I have asked some of these questions also! Tyler again needs prayer! Specifically ask God to let this be cellulitus and not a bacterial infection. We will know the results of the lab work tomorrow. Sarah says it will take a miracle to prevent Tyler from having surgery tomorrow. We believe in miracles!

Hold Tyler up in prayers this evening and tomorrow for good news! Stay close! Kim

Feeling Bad

2009-01-24T19:33:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 25

Tyler spiked a fever on Thursday so it was back to the hospital. Unfortunately after many tests, the doctor's are baffled as to what is causing the fever. It seems now every time he has chemo he develops a fever. He is on quite a few different antibiotics to fight off a number of things that could be causing the fever. He will have to remain in the hospital until he is fever free for 24 hours. It is a waiting and praying game again.

It seems the closer it is to the end of the road, the longer it takes to get there. Hang in there Tyler! We love you and can't wait until this is all over for you!

Stay close! Kim

Last In Patient Chemo Treatment

2009-01-18T14:59:00.000-08:00

Sunday, January 18

We're counting them down! Tyler finished his last in patient chemo treatment on Friday. He did amazingly well since he had the 2 weeks off to prep his body. Unfortunately after he came home from the hospital on Friday evening he started throwing up. He is trying to eat to keep up his weight and strength but not everything will stay down. He is taking it easy at home by laying in bed and watching movies. The count is now "4". Only 4 more chemo treatments.

This week at the hospital Charles has been video taping Tyler. Christian Academy is planning a fundraiser for St. Jude in Tyler's honor. At an assembly to kick off the fundraiser, the school will show the video of Tyler. It will show a day in the life of Tyler at the hospital. Tyler's doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and even his tutor will star in the video. A five minute video has taken Charles 16 hours to produce. I know the students will be amazed at the footage. I hope there is a lot of support shown for such a great cause.

I hope you are making the most of this new year. Let us be thankful for our family, friends, health but mostly for our one true God! Stay close! Kim

A Glorious Weekend

2009-01-11T15:26:00.000-08:00

Sunday, January 11

It has been a glorious weekend because we got to spend time with Tyler, Elijah, Christian , Sarah and Charles.

After school on Friday, a group met at the Foster's for a Mexican Fiesta prepared by Sarah, Gina and Jill. It was great food and fellowship and Tyler was happy and enjoying just hanging out with friends. Later in the evening the kids took turns beating up on a "pinata" full of candy. Even though Tyler couldn't participate in the beating of the pinata, he enjoyed eating the candy that was inside of it. I think Tyler, Austin and Clay stayed up too late because they had to be woken up on Saturday to get to Tony Boom Bozz.

Saturday began with lunch at Tony Boom Bozz where a few friends met for pizza and then the group went to a movie at Tinseltown. They ended the evening with another good meal at the Foster's and another late night of playing Wii and watching movies.

Sunday the family planned on going to church but with the late nights, Tyler needed to stay in bed and rest so he could travel home. We met at the Finnesand's home after church for a great "Waffle House" breakfast. It was difficult saying goodbye because we know it will be a few more months before we see them again.

Tomorrow the family plans to video "A day in the life of Tyler". Christian Academy's middle school is planning a fundraiser/benefit for St. Jude in honor of Tyler. The video will be shown on the kick off day at school in a couple of weeks. Both boys and girls have the opportunity to participate in a hair shaving/cutting benefit. The hair will be donated for wigs for cancer patients. It will be a great opportunity for our students to come together and show support for a wonderful hospital and show Tyler how much we love him also. If you would like to donate, just contact any CAL middle school student.

It has been long road for this family and they are making down it because of wonderful, caring friends and a strong faith in our Lord God. Stay close! Kim

Tuesday, Tyler will be admitted to the hospital for his final round of doxorubicin, cisplatin and bevacizumab. He will remain there for about 5 days. His counts will drop after about 10-12 days and then rise again. These are the chemo drugs that make his hair fall out so since this is the last treatment of these particular drugs, his hair will slowly grow back again. An end to his treatment is in sight.

O Happy Day!

2009-01-09T10:23:00.000-08:00

Friday, January 9

Why is it a HAPPY DAY? Because Tyler is in Louisville! Since he left the hospital he has gradually gotten his strength back and his counts finally returned to normal. The doctor's encouraged Sarah and Charles to take Tyler to Louisville to see friends and have some fun! The family left for Louisville yesterday after Elijah got home from school. It was really late when they arrived at the Foster's home. Thank you Gina and Jeff for your hospitality and for inviting them to stay with you this weekend!

Tyler and Charles arrived at Christian Academy today just before noon so Tyler could hang out with his friends at lunch. He sat a table in the cafeteria while groups of friends were allowed to come and visit with him. It was so much fun to get to see all of the smiling faces, especially Tyler's. Several of the kids came to see me in the office and they said it was a great day. After lunch Tyler and his father walked down to see Mrs. English's first grade class and I had the opportunity to tag along. Each student introduced himself to Tyler and they told him they prayed for him every single day. The class had sent him cards and pictures and had a picture of Tyler hanging in the front of the classroom. It touched my heart!

Tomorrow an invitation is being sent to all of Tyler's friends who would like to hang out. Meet at Tony Boom Bozz Pizza located on Hurtsbourne Road at 11:30. The gang will then move to Tinseltown for a 1:30 showing of Valkyrie.

The family will return to Memphis on Sunday after church. Tyler is scheduled for another round of chemo on Tuesday. We're looking forward to that last round of chemo. Stay close! Kim

A Heartfelt Thank You!

2009-01-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a year! It is amazing to me that this year has flown by and we are in 2009. The are moments when it feels as if time has completely stopped and others when I can't believe we've been living in Memphis for 8 months.

Our family just wanted to say thank you to everyone who helped to make our Christmas special this year, despite the fact that we spent it in the hospital. It really wasn't that bad, we were together and that is all that matters. Christian and Elijah thought it was fun to sleep at the hospital. Christian keeps talking about it and wants to sleep at "the hotel" again. :) We are so blessed to have so many wonderful friends and family who support us. You have all made Tyler's situation easier to bear. Thank you for coming alongside us, loving us, caring for us and praying for us. We have so much to be thankful for, but most importantly is, TYLER IS ALIVE, he is going to make it through all of this. We firmly believe God has a plan for all of our lives and he will use Tyler to do magnificent things for his kingdom.

Roman 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

I have twice now, met complete strangers while out and about, who have heard of Tyler and how God has continually had his hand upon us and they were impressed by God's goodness. I will never know or understand the scope of God's plan, but He does, He sees the whole picture and I know in my heart it is all for a greater good.

Tyler is taking a short and much needed break from his chemotherapy. His spirits are high, he is smiling again, laughing again and we are enjoying being home together as a family. This is going to be a great year. This is the year Tyler is going to be officially announced as "cured of cancer".

We love you all so very much,

Charles, Sarah, Tyler, Elijah & Christian

Answered Prayer

2009-01-02T13:04:00.001-08:00

Friday, January 2

The New Year is starting off pretty good! After 13 days in the hospital, Tyler is on his way home, discharged at last!!!!! What a relief for Tyler and his family. Thanks for all the prayers!
Stay close! Kim

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T18:19:00.000-08:00

Thursday, January 1, 2009

It's a new year and we are looking forward to a happy, healthy and stronger Tyler. He is feeling better today but his blood counts remain at zero. The doctor's feel as though he could have some kind of rare virus and they are treating him still with antibiotics. The family is waiting and just praying his counts will start rising tomorrow. As soon as they start rising Tyler can go home. Home Sweet Home! It has been a while since he has been home.

Sarah took the younger boys to Shelby Farms park today. They walked 2 miles on one of many trails. Sarah is familiar with this park because she has run miles there while in training for the marathon which was held last month. After their day at the park, they ate Italian and brought some spaghetti and meatballs to Tyler in the hospital. Charles had spent the night last night so he left to go home to get a good night's rest. You can't get a good night's sleep on a chair that extends.

Congratulations Tyler on finishing your final tests in Algebra and Science to end the semester. Can you believe that he is caught up with school work? I find that amazing especially since he has been so sick. God is good!

Take time to pray for Tyler today for his counts to rise so he can go home and get a break from chemo and the hospital. He needs to have some normalcy! Stay close! Kim

Still There

2008-12-29T17:27:00.000-08:00

Monday, December 29

Nine days and counting.....yes Tyler remains in the hospital. This is crazy that he still has a fever even though he is on 4 strong antibiotics. The last 4 days his white blood counts have been low, which is called neutropenic. Since he has already had a platelet and blood transfusion, the doctor's are still baffled. His bone marrow is suppressed also but this is a side effect from the antibiotics. He can't leave the hospital until his fever is gone for 24 hours and his counts return to a normal range. He will remain in his 10 x 10 hospital room for another 3-4 days (minimum). Mama Bear (Sarah) had her claws showing today. She expressed to Tyler's doctor's today how she wants a break from chemo for Tyler. They agreed! After he is released from the hospital he should get about a 2 week break from chemo. He needs to regain his strength before another round of chemo.

Tyler does look better today. He has his color back and not that ugly grey color. He had more energy today and was able to get out of bed for the first time and sit on the couch in their room for about 3 hours. He had been so weak he wasn't able to get out of bed on his own or go to the restroom. He is gradually improving but what a long haul this has been. As always thanks for your prayers. We're praying that the new year will bring a healthy, happy and stronger Tyler back to all of us. Stay close! Kim

Not a Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T19:12:00.000-08:00

Thursday, December 25

As you can tell by the title it has been a Christmas that would rather be forgotten. Tyler continues to feel extremely bad and is still in the hospital extremely sick. His fever remains very high and he was septic today. Sarah said she hasn't seen him look this bad since he started treatment. They were very concerned for Tyler yesterday and this morning. He became so weak and very grey in color and he has been bleeding from the nose. The doctor's still remain baffled as to what is making him so sick. He had a blood transfusion and platelets to help with his counts and to help with his nose bleeds. He is on so many different antibiotics to treat a possible viral, bacterial and even fungal infection. While Sarah keeps her faith that God is holding them tight, she was feeling so overwhelmed today. She is so distressed and low. Sarah and Charles covet you prayers for their boy as he is not responding to any medications to fight off what ever it is he has. On a day that is so bright for so many it is dark for them. Sarah said she would trade all of her earthly possessions along with all of her money to have Tyler's health restored. She can never explain how bad of a situation this is and only people who have experienced this can know the true torture it places on a family. To see your child suffer so and not be able to do anything is excruciating for a parent.

Last night Charles and Sarah were given the opportunity to shop for presents that St. Jude offered their patients who had to be in the hospital for Christmas. They selected gifts for Tyler, Elijah and Christian from hundreds of gifts that were donated from stores. St. Jude wrapped the presents and Santa placed them in his big red bag and delivered them to the boys this morning. The family spent the night in an adjoining room so they could be with Tyler the first thing this morning. Unfortunately, Tyler was so sick he couldn't open any of the presents until later this afternoon. Sarah said she has never seen so many gifts from the hospital, their friends in Louisville and family. She said it was amazing and the kids have never had anything like this before but she would trade all of the presents for a normal day at home with just healthy boys. They so appreciated the "light" of encouragement to help them through this dark time.

Please take time out for special prayer today for Tyler. Every time we come together as a family God responds by giving Tyler a healing boost. He definitely needs one at this time. Thanks for your love and concern. Happy Birthday Jesus! Stay close! Kim

Back In The Hospital AGAIN

2008-12-22T16:47:00.000-08:00

Monday, December 22

After a week of feeling decent, Tyler had his 6th round of chemo on Friday. He is expected to feel poorly after receiving a high dose of methotrexate but this time he spiked another extremely high fever-104 this time!

On Saturday, the Thompson family (Jill, Mike, John and Mark) were traveling to Dallas. A mid point for them is Memphis so they stopped to spend the night to break up their trip. This trip they had a little extra baggage about 30 wrapped presents for the Hanson family. Friends of Tyler's generously gave over $900 for the family to have a Merry Christmas so gifts were purchased. Mike, John and Mark delivered the gifts to the family Saturday evening. Tyler was feeling so poorly that he laid in bed while the Thompson's visited. Sarah couldn't figure out why he was so weak and tired even though he had just had chemo. But later on that night they realized why when he spiked a fever. He was admitted to the hospital early Sunday morning for tests and cultures. They all came back negative so the doctors are baffled again. He is on strong antibiotics to fight off what ever it is he has. Once the fever has been gone for 24 hours he can leave. It looks like Tyler will be in the hospital Christmas day, how sad is that!

Sarah and Charles decided to have the boys wait to open all their presents, all but one. They took one to the hospital for Tyler to open. It was a new phone that he had asked for. When he is feeling stronger, expect a text or call. He was excited to get the phone. Thanks to everyone who contributed money to purchase all the gifts for the family.

Tomorrow Tyler will have a cat scan and Echo cardiogram. They are always checking his heart and his body to make sure he is cancer free. He had x-rays of his leg and they came back great. Since he has a metal prosthesis there is always a possibility of infection so this fever could be a result of that.

Last night Sarah's Aunt Sharon died of cancer. The family is very sad and they are very far away and won't be able to attend the funeral. She lived in California. Tyler has a psychologist to help him through situations such as this. He has been very emotional recently and he fought seeing this psychologist, but since he has been seeing her he really enjoys the time talking with her. Tyler is having to deal with life skills that we adults deal with and talking with an expert really helps him to cope better.

Life is fragile! Take a moment tonight to tell your family how much you cherish them. Christmas is a time for family. Spend time with your family this holiday. Tell them you love them! Remember the one that holds you the closest, our Lord and Savior!
Merry Christmas!
Kim

Hanging Tough

2008-12-17T08:10:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, December 17

Tyler's 7th round of chemo was last Friday and he has done amazingly well since. He has experienced being nauseous on and off and tired but he hasn't been throwing up. Yipee!!!!!
He will receive his 6th round of chemo again this Friday. I am glad they can peel those numbers off the wall and celebrate each time he has finished a treatment. Hang tough Tyler you are getting close to the end. I know we will be rejoicing in Louisville with the angels above when the last number is peeled off that wall and thrown away!

Ice seemed to hit the city of Memphis yesterday and it was a tough commute to the hospital. Sarah said there was ice on the bridges and lots of "idiots "causing accidents. People need to drive differently when there is bad weather. Oh well! I am glad the Hanson's were not involved in one of those accidents.

Thank you to everyone who donated money to bring Christmas cheer to the Hanson family. Jill, Clay, Chad, Jenna Finnesand, Tommy English and Conner and myself shopped until we dropped on Sunday spending over $900 that was collected from friends of Tyler. It was a lot of fun shopping for the family and I know they will greatly appreciate everything they receive. A big thank you to Jill and Mike Thompson who have volunteered to deliver the packages as they travel through Memphis this coming weekend.

Continue to pray for our special Tyler! The family feels those prayers and knows that God has something very special in store for them.

God Bless! Stay close! Kim

It's Time to Heal

2008-12-10T09:49:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, December 10

Tyler has gotten another stomach virus so he will not be having his next round of chemo (methotrexate) until he is over it. Sarah seems to think that her two younger boys brought the virus home. Christian and Elijah attended a Build A Bear party and one of the children at the party had the stomach flu. They probably brought some of his germs home. They can't be careful enough around Tyler. It is very hard to keep their home sterile and germ free. But they try! Last night Tyler received the first "tub" bath in a very, very long time. There is nothing better than a warm bath especially when you are sick! We so take for granted the simple pleasures of life until they are snatched from us.

Tyler's EKG/Echo cardiogram came back normal. It is hard to understand but they measure the pumps of blood that are pushed from his ventricles and they have been low but were in a more normal range this week. They will do an additional EKG/Echo cardiogram next week. The doctor's have to constantly monitor every part of his body. It is hard to fathom the amount of money it costs to treat a patient at St. Jude. Let us give thanks to the thousands of dollars that are donated each year to this wonderful hospital to enable such great care to patients such as Tyler.

Thanks for caring! Stay close! Kim

Worn out!

2008-12-08T10:31:00.001-08:00

Monday, December 8

It is too bad that drugs that save our life can be so dangerous. This is definitely the case with chemotherapy. While Tyler is beating cancer through chemo, the chemo is wearing down poor Tyler. His poor little body has been through so much. Even though he is feeling a little better, he is so tired and weak.

Tyler came home late last Wednesday night from the hospital. He had to return only once more last week for blood counts, clinic, physical therapy and tutoring (school). He had an echo/EKG last week also and will have to have another today. His heart beat was weak and they didn't know if that was accurate or a problem with the machine so they were repeating the tests again today. Let's pray there is nothing wrong with his heart! Chemo can damage the heart and we do not want for Tyler. he is scheduled for another round of chemo tomorrow (methotrexate) depending on the results of the echo/EKG today. Let's pull together and pray Tyler can withstand these next treatments over the next 3 straight weeks.

Tyler received posters from his friends at CAL. He had a great time reading them. Cards, posters, balloons, etc. are a reminder to him that his friends are there pulling for him (even though they are far away) .

This weekend St. Jude held a big marathon to raise money for the hospital. Charles and Sarah participated. Friends from Louisville, Gena and Craig McFarland drove to Memphis to visit and participate also. Gena ran in the race with Sarah and Charles while Craig, Elijah and the Ross family cheered them on. Their goals were accomplished when they crossed the finish line. It was an emotional day! Everyone person on the course and standing on the side lines had a story and their own personal reasons for being there. It was truly amazing to see the support for St. Jude hospital. There was even another Team Tyler. Though they were running to remember and honor their son who had died in September of this year. They all cried and hugged and wished each other well. The Hanson's are so very thankful for St. Jude and for Tyler's life! They are confident that Tyler will be completely healed.

Pray for strength and that God will provide a miracle for Tyler. He has 10 more weeks of chemo and we want him to sail through these next weeks without any nausea, vomiting, fever, infections, mucousitis or anything else! Philippians 4:13 reminds us "I can do everything through HIM who gives me strength".

Thanks for the support! Stay close! Kim

Test Rsults

2008-12-03T09:51:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, December 3

All of Tyler's scans came back clear but the culture for the c-diff came back positive, It means that the good bacteria that lives in the digestive system were killed in Tyler's from all the antibiotics he received and the bacteria that was left breeded and made him sick again. So the doctors are giving him more medicine. He hasn't had a fever today so that is good news! They are not sure when he will be discharged from the hospital but hopefully soon!

Thanks for caring and praying!
Stay close! Kim

More tests

2008-12-02T15:49:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, December 2

Just when the family thought Tyler was getting better and going home from the hospital, he started throwing up again and his fever returned. Ok it is time to stop now! Tyler needs a break there is no doubt. Since he started the fever again the doctor's decided to run some tests. He had blood drawn this morning and the blood cultures were negative so there are no blood infections. Next he had cat scans of the stomach and abdomen. He also had an echo EKG of his heart. I don't know the results yet from these tests. He still is on morphine for pain in his leg. He tried to have physical therapy again today but this stresses Tyler out. There is pain when he moves it and they make him stretch it to try to build strength. As soon as chemo is finished he will be able to rehab his leg quicker.

The doctors have decided to wait until next week for another round of chemo because he still is sick. The good news is only 7 more treatments which could be 10 more weeks and it is over. Pray he will stay on schedule so it can be over and done! He just needs to recover now. The poor child hasn't eaten in so long he might not remember how to eat. It's a good thing he is on the TPN fluids for nourishment. Hang tough Tyler you have so many people pulling for you!
We love you! Stay close! Kim

Doing Better Finally

2008-12-01T17:18:00.000-08:00

Monday, December 1

Finally Tyler is feeling better. He may get to go home from the hospital tomorrow morning as long as he continues to do well though the night. His fever is finally gone, he is free from nausea and his mucousitis is better. His throat is still sore but it is healing now that he is no longer throwing up. He did physical therapy today. It was really hard on him since he hasn't moved around much in three weeks. Sarah said he is going to have to be tough and push through the pain because he lost some of the ground he made after the surgery. The family is so anxious for Tyler to go home. It has been a tough week!

Tyler received a bouquet of balloons and candy from his friends at school. He really appreciated everyone thinking about him and caring so much. Thanks to all who contributed! We pray for Tyler to be stronger and healthier soon. Hang in there Tyler because you have a lot of people who love you and are praying for you!!!!! Stay close! Kim

Thanksgiving in the Hospital

2008-11-27T16:12:00.000-08:00

Thursday, November 27

I am thankful for.... There are so many things to be thankful for this year. I am most thankful for family, friends and a God that loves us. I am also thankful that Tyler is slowly rebounding back.

After 2 days in the hospital, Tyler still has a 103 temperature and his blood counts are at O but he has finally stopped throwing up. This is a huge thank you. The doctor's determined that he had mucositis, which is the painful inflammation of the mucus lining and a bacterial infection. This was the reason he was throwing up blood. He is on different antibiotics to help fight the infection. He is swollen and looks like he has gained 40 pounds but it is from the retention of fluids in his body. Sarah said this is called water poisoning when there are too many fluids and the blood thins. They cut back his TPN nutrients. He has had to have a blood transfusion because of his thinning of the blood. His kidneys are not responding well either but the doctor's are monitoring him very closely. He has sores in his mouth, throat and esophagus.

They are hoping his counts will start rising tomorrow and he will feel better. He is scheduled for chemo again on Tuesday but he will have to be 100% for that to happen. His body is taking longer to bounce back after chemo so this pushes his treatment later and later to being completed. He is on a morphine pump to regulate his pain ( the sores in his esophagus makes his chest hurts). Sarah and Charles can't imagine how Tyler can take much more but they turn it over everyday to God to handle it for them. This is Hard! I can't imagine how hard since it is not happening to me. I feel helpless also. I asked Sarah what can we do as friends for Tyler. Her response....PRAY!

I encourage all of you to continue to pray for Tyler. Please fell free to send him cards as that really cheers him up. The Finnesand family sent a bouquet of balloons to Tyler at the hospital and that was fun! The Ross' extended family cooked Thanksgiving dinner and Sarah and Charles took a break from the hospital (separately of course) to eat. Friends are a blessing and we are so thankful for friends! Stay close! Kim

Back to the Hospital

2008-11-25T18:25:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, November 25

Tyler was feeling so bad he went to the hospital to be checked out. He had a 103 temperature and was admitted. When will Tyler feel better? How much more can he take? The doctor's feel he may have an infection because he has been so sick. He hasn't felt well for 12 days. He has been nauseous and throwing up every day but one. He has also been throwing up blood which is such a concern for Sarah and Charles. Hopefully the hospital staff will be able to help him. His body is badly battered from the chemo and he needs relief. This is a serious time for Tyler. Join me tonight in an earnest plea to God for a speedy recovery. God has answered our prayers before and He will again. PRAY!

I will keep you posted. Stay close! Kim

Finally Feeling Better

2008-11-20T14:23:00.002-08:00

Thursday, November 20

FINALLY Tyler is feeling better. After a week of throwing up, hovering over a bucket, lying in bed and eating nothing it is about time. He was enjoying some video game time with his uncle Aaron today. Thank you God. Sarah said this is the sickest he has been since he started chemo and she is so thankful he may be over the hump. Sarah and Charles are celebrating two things tonight, Tyler feeling better and their anniversary. They are celebrating by going out to eat dinner and to a movie.

Tyler still needs to be covered with prayer on a daily basis. He has a difficult road that we must help him get to the end of. He is a wonderful example of commitment, strength and endurance. He never complains about his situation but works hard to overcome it and win. He has a driven force, his family, friends but mostly God is on his side. Stay close! Kim

A season of Thankfulness

2008-11-17T17:55:00.000-08:00

Monday, November 17

I always feel so thankful after talking with Sarah. I am thankful for healthy children and a normal life. These 2 things Sarah can't wait to enjoy again. I just pray it will be soon!

Tyler went for his chemo treatment on Thursday and returned home late on Sunday. He hasn't eaten in 5 days and has constantly been throwing up. Sarah said this is the worse he has been and he is so very weak.The chemo has made his incision from the surgery reverse it's healing process. His wound care nurse will have to examine it tomorrow and dress it because it is opening up again and that is not good news. He is still wearing his brace but hasn't had any more movement with his leg. It still only measures at 10%. He had a EKO and a EKG this week to check his heart and hearing. His heart is in good shape but he has lost 10% of his hearing. He cannot hear high pitched noises. The cisplatin can cause serious heart and hearing damage so they constantly monitor Tyler in these areas. The good news is he completed the last round of this drug last week so they are hopeful that his hearing will not worsen. The hardest part of chemo is "killing the cancer and not killing the child." They are powerful drugs!!!!!

Tyler received 2 packages today from his friends. The cross country team sent him a package along with his 8th grade friends from school. Sarah said he was so weak today he couldn't even open the packages but he enjoyed some of the notes from his friends. They really brighten his day. Thanks friends for sending them!!!!!!!!

Sarah is hoping Tyler will feel better soon. It usually takes about 11 days for his counts to completely drop and but when they start to rise again, Tyler will have a few good days. He has to peel #8 from the chemo wall and then there will be 7 more treatments to go! YIPEE!!!!!! The family may get to come to Louisville for a couple of days. They take life one day at a time and count their blessings every day.

During this season of Thanksgiving, remember the One who gives us life. Thank him daily for your family and others especially the Hanson family!
Stay close! Kim

Two Thirds of the Way

2008-11-10T15:02:00.000-08:00

Monday, November 10

Can you believe it is November already? I think most of you will agree that time passes way too quickly. Everyone except Tyler or anyone else going through a cancer treatment program. Tyler and his family are celebrating that they are two-thirds of the way through his treatment. Only 12 more weeks of treatment! Hurray!!!!! He finished week 16 and will begin week 17 this Wednesday. He is feeling well but very tired. His physical therapy is moving slow. He can only bend his leg about 10% but they are hoping by the end of this week he will be bending it 30%. I am amazed how well he is progressing considering the severity of his surgery and the chemo treatments on top that. Tyler shows such determination and strength when his body is so weak. I have had people tell me how much they admire him when they experience a 24 hour stomach virus. Tyler has been experiencing a 51/2 month stomach virus plus more. Pray for continued strength, endurance and healing and for his future treatments to be on schedule with no interruptions or complications.

Tyler received a nice visit and surprise yesterday. Two volunteers from Make-A-Wish, Adriane Kraus and Joyce Hall and their families, came with goody bags for the 3 boys and paperwork to apply for Tyler's wish. After thinking about it for a while, Tyler decided his first choice would be to visit Japan. His ancestors and family are Japanese and the best way to learn about his own heritage is to visit. Since this is a big "wish" they asked for a second choice in case it was too expensive to grant. His second wish is to go on a Disney cruise. Either trip would be amazing and something to look forward to. The family wouldn't want to go until he was fully recovered so that he could enjoy it. It could happen as early as spring break or during the summer. Make-A-Wish is an amazing foundation with amazing volunteers that care so much for children.

"Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever...Psalm 100:4-5 Let us remember to give thanks on a daily basis for the good and bad because God is in control!
Stay close! Kim

Stitiches Out!

2008-11-03T09:26:00.000-08:00

Monday, November 3

It has been a week or so since I posted news about Tyler's progress. Sorry for the delay!

Tyler is at the hospital today having his stitches removed from his leg. He will be put under anesthesia because some the the stitches are deep in his muscle. It will be painful so it is better for Tyler to be asleep. The doctors removed the cast last Friday and he will be put back in his brace. His brace has two metal pieces on the side and open in the front. It has dials that can change the angle of his leg. The angle will increase over time until he can bend it all the way. He has physical therapy to help with the movement also. After he wakes up from this procedure today, he will have tutoring and physical therapy. The days get longer and longer at the hospital to get in everything that he needs to do.

School work is going slow. He does a great job when he is at the hospital with his tutor. He sees him 3 times a week but when he is at home Sarah said he gets very little done. Mainly because he hasn't felt well. He received high doses of methotrexate last Friday (10/24). He was in bed until this Friday (10/31). His body is so beaten down from all of the drugs that it is harder to recover from the chemo.

Halloween was a fun night for the Hanson kids. They went to the Ross' neighborhood to trick-o-treat. Elijah dressed in a purple cape that covered his head and body and had a black mesh face. Sarah said she thinks he was a purple ghost. Tyler dressed as a large skeleton bobble head. It was hilarious. The skeleton head was rather large and he looked out through the mouth. He wore a cape over his head and body. He didn't feel so great so he went to a couple of houses and then helped hand out candy. Christian had a nice transformer outfit but decided he wasn't dressing up.

On Saturday, Sarah and Charles took the kids camping. When Tyler was younger, they camped all of the time. Elijah had never been camping so they headed to a nice area in Arkansas that wasn't too far to drive. It was cold at night but the weather was nice during the day. It was great to get away and enjoy being a family together and having fun. Tyler was feeling better so they took advantage and got away.

Today is a sad day for the family because Alli and Aiko (Sarah's sister and niece) is leaving after 7 weeks. She is returning to Arizona. They hope she will return during the Christmas holiday. They will miss her so much!!!! She has been a huge help to the family.

The Finnesand's are traveling south this extended weekend and are stopping in Memphis tonight to see the family on their return home to Louisville. Tyler will have a long day at the hospital but I know he will enjoy hanging out with Clay, Chad and Jenna tonight.

The Hanson's hope to come to Louisville in the next month or so for a weekend to visit. It all depends on Tyler's treatment. His chemo treatment is pushed back another week. His liver enzymes were extremely high this past week so his chemo was pushed back until next week. Liver enzymes should be at a 40 and Tyler's were as high as 1100 last week. This is such a bummer for the family because they are counting down his weeks of treatment. Charles has made a countdown wall. Tyler has 9 more chemo treatments. They celebrate every time they tear down a number and get closer to the end.

Tyler still has a tough road to travel.. The chemo has battered his body down and it takes longer to get over his treatments. Continue to pray for him to recover quickly and to stay on track to be completely healed of this cancer. He will have extensive physical therapy to get his leg operating like normal. Charles has taken a leave of absence without pay so finances are tight. The family is appreciative of all the support and continued prayer. They continue to be patient and put their faith and hope in the Lord. Isaiah 40:31 "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint". His strength is our strength! Thank you Lord!
Stay close! Kim

Week 13

2008-10-24T14:11:00.000-07:00

Friday, October 24

Tyler arrived early yesterday at the hospital to begin week 13 of his chemo treatment. It always begins with his prehydration fluids followed by the chemo by IV. He remains at the hospital for around 15 hours and then returns home. The doctor's delayed his treatment a few days because Sarah and Charles were out of town. Tyler will have a week or so to recuperate from the high doses of methetrexate and have another round some time next week. He should also get his cast removed next week also. He will be put to sleep for the procedure because he will have his stitches removed also. Some of the stitches are very deep and it will be very painful. He will then begin a strenuous physical therapy program to learn to use his leg again.

Sarah and Charles enjoyed their few days away to Cancun. Sarah said it was the best vacation she and Charles have ever had together. The weather was great. She shared with me about an excursion they took. They got to zip line, ride mountain bikes and swim in the underground river. It was a lot of fun.

Ally did a great job taking care of the boys while Sarah and Charles were away. Unfortunately Glen (Sarah's father) wasn't feeling good last week. He felt well enough Wednesday to celebrate his 53rd birthday with the family out to eat. Happy belated Birthday, Glen! I pray you will be feeling better soon!

Tyler we think and pray for you often. Keep working hard! We love you!
Stay close! Kim

Feeling Good

2008-10-15T17:26:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, October 15

After a bad day on Sunday and Monday, Tyler is feeling good today!!!! He went to the hospital yesterday and his counts are back to normal which gives him strength and an appetite. He now has a nice blue cast on his leg and I am claiming he has become a Kentucky fan. I think he just likes blue but I can hope he will come over to the blue side. The cast will keep his leg fully extended for 2 weeks. The brace he was wearing had a little too much give and they need for him to keep it completely straight for 2 weeks. When the cast is removed, his wound will be taken care of and his stitches will be removed. The doctors are truly amazed at how well his leg is healing. He started physical therapy yesterday to strengthen his upper leg muscles. This made him a little sore and he had some pain but other than that he has been pain free. Hurray!!! Sarah and Charles are so pleased with his progress and NO complications.

Tyler is in school. Not real school but he is having private tutoring provided by St. Jude. He started chapter 1 in Algebra and is flying through it. He will be caught up in no time.

Ally is still with the family taking very good care of them. Sarah and Charles have decided to celebrate their anniversary early and fly to Cancun for a few days since they have such great help at home. I am so happy they are getting some time together. They sure do deserve it. Pray for good weather, safety and all is well at home while they are gone.

What are you dressing as for Halloween? Tyler has decided to go as a wounded soldier. His blue cast will fit into his outfit perfectly. Sarah said when he told her that the other day, she was so proud of his attitude and how he has responded to this horrible situation. It is obvious he has trust and faith in God. It shows in his attitude and actions. Tyler, we are all so proud of you! We can't wait to see you.

Stay close! Kim

Take time for prayer

2008-10-11T07:38:00.000-07:00

Saturday, October 11

Tyler's counts are slowly dropping which is normal. They should bottom out today or tomorrow and then begin to rise again. Next week should be an encouraging week, when he will feel his best. Ally leaves on Monday and the family will be on their own. She helped Sarah a lot and the family will greatly miss Ally and Aiko, her niece.

Tyler began school with dad this week. Charles is great at math especially Algebra and I think that is the toughest subject to learn. Charles met Tyler's tutor from St. Jude and he will begin teaching him the curriculum that Christian Academy teaches their 8Th graders. Tyler is such a strong student academically that he will sail through the work easily. Tyler will be in great hands and where he needs to be when he returns to school. We are looking forward to that day with great anticipation.

"The Race for the Cure" was held this morning in Louisville. Over 8,000 people were expected to run for a special cause...cancer. Take time to pray for someone you know who has cancer today. Life is fragile!

Stay Clsoe! Kim

Time with the family

2008-10-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 6

Since Tyler was discharged from the hospital on Saturday, he has been spending time with his family at home. He has to be careful not to contract any germs during this rebound period after his chemo. His numbers will drop over the next 5 - 7 days but will rise again. He is prone to infection and susceptible to catching anything in the air. He has to stay at home secluded and safe from germs. He has been watching a lot of movies. Charles said he will be a movie trivia expert soon. Uncle Aaron has over 300 movies and Tyler is on his way to watching all of them. Sarah and Charles are finding things to do around the house like fix the door. Charles is enjoying just being with Sarah, taking Elijah to school and picking him up, playing with Christian and taking care of Tyler. He has taken a medical leave from work to be with his family.

Charles and Sarah participated in the 24 hour run this past weekend. They ran for 17 miles and Charles was the one to call it quits. He had been at the hospital for 2 days and hadn't slept well or eaten right for a big race. He said it was a lot of fun though and is looking forward to the actual marathon in December sponsored by St. Jude. He and Sarah plan on running the entire 27.2 miles.

Tomorrow Tyler will head for his check up at the hospital. They will take blood draws and check his counts and after several hours he will return home. Tyler's leg is healing amazingly well. The doctor's said he is a model patient. Not only is it healing quickly but he has movement in his toes and is moving around so well on his crutches. He still has to keep it elevated all day. He is taking pain medicine only when he needs it.

Elijah is enjoying school. He will have his fall break Thursday through Monday and Charles would love to take the family somewhere but it is doubtful because of Tyler's recovery. We can pray about it and if it is God's will, it will happen. Ally leaves on Monday and she will be greatly missed by the family.

Only 10 more weeks of chemo! That sounds like a lot but really after what they have been through it should be easier now. It won't be actually 10 weeks because they only count the weeks he receives the chemo but we see the light at the end of the tunnel. What a glorious light that is. Tyler, we are in awe of your strength, endurance and attitude. You have been an amazing patient and we are so proud of you. We love you!
Stay close! Kim

Hanging at the hospital

2008-10-03T12:35:00.001-07:00

Friday, October 3

It is the last day of chemo for this round. Tyler started feeling poorly yesterday but only threw up once. Charles stayed at the hospital last night and Tyler woke up in the middle of the night so they watched a movie until he got sleepy. This round of chemo really wears his body down as though he has the flu. That is why he needs 2 weeks to recover before another round. He will sleep a lot for the next few days to rebound. Uncle Aaron is staying with Tyler tonight so that Charles and Sarah can run.

Running 27 miles "is a social thing" according to Sarah. How can you talk when you run that far? I wouldn't be able to breathe let alone talk. It is a great way for Sarah and Charles to spend time together. I am thankful that they have found something they enjoy doing together. Sarah has a game plan to stay close with her coach. His advice was to take it "Slow and Sweet like molasses".

Tyler will be released from the hospital tomorrow morning and will get to hang out at home for a while before his next round of chemo. It is definitely more fun at home than in the hospital. Hang in there Tyler! We love you and miss you!

Stay close! Kim

Hanging at the Hospital

2008-10-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, October 1

Could it be October already? The time is passing so quickly but not quick enough for Tyler. He started week 12 of his chemo treatment yesterday evening. Charles stayed yesterday and last night and Sarah took over today. Even though this is the tough round of chemo with Doxorubicin and Cisplatin the doctors added a steroid to help with the nausea and it's working. He will remain in the hospital until Saturday morning. Tyler is feeling good and is looking good according to mom. He has his rosy cheeks. This round of chemo makes his counts drop so he will have 2 weeks off to recover. Even though Tyler hasn't eaten much these past couple of weeks his weight has remained around 96 pounds. His doctor's have done a nice job with the TPN fluids. The fluids have given him the calories and nutrients he has needed to maintain his weight.

The doctor's never fully determined what caused his severe pain after surgery. It might have been a reaction to the medicine in the pain block or a spinal headache whatever the cause, Sarah is convinced God released the pain to make Tyler better.

Tyler still has to keep his leg straight while the incision heals. It will take around 6 weeks and then he will begin physical therapy. He needs to be able to bend his leg before PT begins. He is doing great on his crutches. Lunetha, his wound nurse, comes to check his leg several times a day. Evidently it still looks ugly. Sarah took pictures of it so Tyler can see it later. He doesn't have any desire to look at it now. I don't blame him for that. The ugliest part is the skin graph. The doctor's surgical placed a piece of Tyler's skin from his upper thigh over the area where the tumor was removed. It is just starting to dry up and heal but Sarah said you could actually see his muscle through the skin. Yuck! Tyler likes for his leg to remain bandaged so he doesn't have to look at it.

Tyler got news today that he will receive a "Make A Wish". All St. Jude patients receive this and what a nice gift. Dr. Mauer asked him to think about where he would like to go. This is something to look forward to. Tyler, I hope you pick something very special and fun, you sure deserve it!

Sarah and Charles are participating in a 24 hour run on Friday. The "running group" that Sarah joined a few weeks ago is participating. The purpose is to raise money for a team to go to Haiti on a mission trip. Their team's goal is to raise $1500 and they are very close. It is a great way to raise money and train for a marathon. Running 27 miles doesn't sound like too much fun to me but Sarah and Charles are really looking forward to it.

We are thankful that the surgery is behind them. Tyler needs to remain strong and tough to get through these next few months of chemo. I am looking forward to seeing the family back home again. Continue to keep the family in your prayers. God has wrapped his arms around them and your prayers have carried them through. Thank you!
Stay close, Kim

Warning! Pictures of Tyler's leg during surgery. Not for the faint of heart!

The first picture is Tyler's tumor with all the surrounding tissue and bone removed.

The second is what his leg looked like with the tumor out.

The third is the prosthesis they put in.

The fourth shows the gastroc flap the made to anchor Tylers tendons and muscles to and close over the prosthesis.

The last shows everything all stitched up with the skin graft.

Taking It Easy

2008-09-28T09:59:00.000-07:00

Sunday, September 28

Tyler has just been taking it easy at home and enjoying his family. His headache has returned to a lesser degree. The doctor has him measure the pain using a scale of 1-10. He says his headache is between a 3 and 4. This concerns the doctors because they never determined the actual cause of the pain to begin with. He is experiencing some pain again in his back also. Charles took him to the hospital on Friday to have him checked over. They sent him home and told him to just lay around so that is just what he has done. He will return to the hospital on Tuesday. If he is still in pain they will not start his next round of chemo which will again push back his treatment. They need to wait until he is free of his headache.

Elijah had a great 2 days at his school...Briarcrest. He loves his teacher. She is warm, kind and very loving. God picked the perfect teacher for him and he loves her. He can't wait to go to school tomorrow. What a blessing!

Meanwhile, the family is just hanging out at home. They had a water fight yesterday and they are having to find fun things to do at home. Aunt Ally is still visiting and will be there until October 13. Sarah said she has been a Godsend for her. She takes care of Tyler, does the laundry, cleans and cooks. Sarah has had so much fun spending time with her little sister and her niece.

Sarah and Charles are upbeat as usual. Their attitude amazes me. They are always so positive and thankful. They inspire me! Charles remains in Memphis with his family until Tyler is feeling a lot better. Continue to hold Tyler up in prayer for healing and relief of his pain. I look forward to seeing what God has planned for this family!
Stay close! Kim

Hymn of Praise

2008-09-23T16:35:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, September 23

I don't understand it, Sarah doesn't understand it and the doctor's don't understand it. After numerous tests today and quite a scare, Tyler woke up pain free, looking and feeling really good. The doctor's are truly baffled as to why Tyler was in tremendous pain. They sent him for a cat scan of the head and back, a MRI and a spinal tap. The doctor's were seriously concerned and they should be. Tyler had been suffering terribly for almost a week with migraines, neck and back pain. He was so nauseous that he hadn't eaten since last Sunday. He was taken off of his pain block today and that was a relief. When he woke up he felt so good that he asked for some fruit and pretzels and he even got up. Truly amazing! The doctors feel that puncturing his spine 6 times today to get some fluid may have relieved some pressure which released the pain. The point of the spinal tap was to draw fluid to check him for meningitis, but they were unable to get any fluid. They said sometimes it is difficult to retrieve fluid from teenage boys. That makes no sense to me. They couldn't even check him for a bacterial infection or meningitis. Since he is doing so well, they may release him tomorrow to go home. What an emotional day for the family...and for his friends. Psalm 40 reads "I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord." Waiting for God to help us is not easy! Often blessings cannot be received unless we go through trials.

My prayer is that the Hanson's trials will cease. They have had their share. There was good news today. Dr. Maurer shared the results from the lab work on the tumor they removed. The tumor was 91% dead! This was awesome news. All of that chemo that Tyler has been through worked to kill the cancer. The doctor said when he is through with his treatment there should be no cancer anywhere because it is obvious the chemo is working. The family was thrilled with the news. It could have been a gloomy report but the news brightened their day along with Tyler's improvement.

Sarah and Charles decided today to send Elijah to the Christian school that Tyler attended for 4 years. Elijah is excited to go to school and it will be good for him to get back in the routine and to be with kids his age. Homeschooling is a tough job, one that Sarah didn't need. Great decision for everyone!

Thank you again for your dedication to this family. I find comfort in the fact that God is our refuge and strength. How can we spend a day without HIM!

Stay close! Kim

More Prayer Please

2008-09-22T14:23:00.000-07:00

Monday, September 22

What a roller coaster ride the Hanson's have been on. Today the ride got worse. Since Tyler has had so much pain in his neck, back and head, the doctor's are admitting him back into the hospital. He probably shouldn't have been discharged to begin with but that's another story. The doctor's have shown concern that this could be serious. He is being tested for a spinal leak, meningitis and even for disease progression to the brain. My heart just breaks for Tyler. We were so hopeful that with the good news of the surgery things would be getting better. He has been very sick this weekend. When you hear about the high doses of pain medicine you would expect side effects but evidently they should have not lasted this long so there will be more tests to determine the problems. Please be in prayer for Tyler as he undergoes more tests to determine the cause of his pain. Sarah and Charles are exhausted from little rest and sleep. They need to be filled with God's power and strength to endure yet another trial.

Thanks for you committed prayers for this family. I will keep you posted as soon as I hear any news.

Stay close! Kim

Relief Please!!!!

2008-09-21T18:02:00.000-07:00

Sunday, September 21

Tyler was released from the hospital late Friday evening. Unfortunately it wasn't a positive experience. He has been so sick with pain and throwing up and hopes for relief soon! It has been a tough few days. He has had to travel back and forth to the hospital everyday to have his IV pain medicine changed. It probably would have been better for Tyler to remain in the hospital. The stress of traveling back and forth has been very difficult. Not only is it difficult to get into a car, but once he is inside he must lay in the back seat to keep his leg stretched out. It cannot bend because of the cast. Moving around makes him nauseous and causes his head to hurt. Today while at the hospital he had severe pain in his head, neck, back and he was also nauseous. They gave him a medicine that was stronger than morphine and he immediately began throwing up. Sarah believes the medicine is masking the pain and covering up the problem. Hopefully tomorrow when there is a full staff at the hospital, they will get some answers.

Tyler needs specific prayer today. Please pray his pain will be relieved; the pain in his neck, back and especially his migraines. He will be taken off his pain block tomorrow so this is also a big concern. He hasn't felt any pain in his leg from the surgery due to the pain block but tomorrow may be a different story. They are also anxious for the test results from the tumor. They should have those results on Wednesday.

This has been a long hard road and they have two-thirds of it yet to travel. This is only week 11 and they have 29 weeks until Tyler's treatment is completed. Tyler will have another round of chemo next Monday (Doxorubicin, Cisplatin and Bevacizumab). The family appreciates all of the cards and love that is sent to them. They want to thank the Scull family, especially Tristen and Liam. Tristen and Liam had lemonade stands this summer and sent the family a check for $900. That is a lot of lemonade!!!!!! Thank you for your support, the family truly appreciates you and everyone that has sent cards, pictures and gifts.

Continue to pray for Tyler and if you would like to send him a note of encouragement, his address is:
10704 Quiet Cove
Collierville, TN 38017

Stay close! Kim

It's Going to Take Time

2008-09-18T03:27:00.000-07:00

Thursday, September 18

The first 24 hours after surgery are usually the toughest. That rang true for Tyler. Around 10:00 am on Tuesday, Physical Therapy (PT) had Tyler walk from his bed to a chair. This triggered severe nauseousness and a migraine. For the entire next day he threw up numerous times and he cannot shake the headache. The doctor's are slightly concerned. But he was under anesthesia for 7 hours so this could be the result of that. Sarah stayed with him all day and spent the night. Charles arrived yesterday afternoon along with Tyler's Uncle Aaron from California and many other family members. It was a great family time, unfortunately Tyler was heavily sedated and couldn't enjoy it. Charles stayed with Tyler the remaining part of the day and spent the night last night. Sarah took her family to the zoo to try to enjoy some time with them. Elijah and Christian loved the baby animals.

Tyler's leg is heavily bandaged from his hip to his ankle. They will change the dressing on Friday and look at the incision for the first time. Sarah said his poor toes are so swollen you can't tell that they are toes. The doctor's have tried 4 different nausea medicines and 3 different pain medicines for his headache. I pray today he will be much better and over the nausea and headache. The best thing for him now is sleep.

Tyler has been a model patient. He is always so compliant and does whatever the PT or doctor's ask of him. He is so eager to get better and return to a normal way of living. He never complains either. That is the Tyler I know and love. God continue to give Tyler your fruits of your spirit. Thank you for Tyler and his family!
Stay close! Kim

Answered Prayer

2008-09-15T17:29:00.000-07:00

Monday, September 15

Tyler's surgery is over and it went well. No it went great! According to the doctors it went better than any other surgery of this type they have ever performed. Tyler is doing amazingly well, he looks great and was up in the recovery room drinking a coke. He only has a little pain. It is in the area that the doctors grafted skin (which I didn't know they were doing). They grafted skin from his upper thigh to put over his incision area. The doctors said this will be the most painful part of his surgery. After the surgery was over, the anesthesiologist administered a pain block in his sciatic nerve. It will remain there until Friday. This will prevent severe pain because tomorrow he will have to get up and do physical therapy. His leg is in a metal type brace that is open in the front for the incision and he has a drain in the incision. The best news is his incision was from just under his knee down his leg. It was only about 10-12 inches long. Most of these surgeries have incisions that are about 26-28 inches long. The doctors removed all of the muscles and tissues around the bone including the bone and tumor. The tumor was sent to the lab and they should have the results on Friday. There was no sign of the cancer spreading so......Tyler is now cancer free. What a huge relief for all of us that love Tyler so much.

Sarah and Charles arrived early at the hospital this morning (before 8:00). Tyler was scheduled at 10:00 but the surgery didn't begin until 11:30. Sarah went with Tyler into the OR room and she said she was amazed at the instruments. She said there were thousands of metals instruments on dozens of tables around the room. They administered anesthesia and they shuffled her quickly out of the room. The doctors called them frequently with updates throughout the surgery. The surgeon came out around 3:50 to talk to Sarah and Charles while it took the team a while to finish things up. Tyler was in recovery at 5:00. After a time in recovery he was sent to ICU. He will remain there for about 2 days. If everything goes well, he may get to go home on Friday. That makes Sarah a little nervous because of the pain and how to deal with that.

Sarah said they had special prayer on Saturday and again on Sunday. Uncle Steve (who is an elder at his church) anointed Tyler on Sunday during a special prayer time. God provided his mercy, grace and love today on Tyler. We are so grateful and thankful. I want to thank all of you who have had special prayer for Tyler. I feel a tremendous sigh of relief! We received answered prayer today!
Stay close! Kim

It's Time for Serious Prayer

2008-09-12T16:28:00.000-07:00

Friday, September 12
Tyler, Sarah and Charles met with the team of doctors today who will be preforming Tyler's surgery. It is confirmed for Monday morning 10:00 AM. The surgery will take approximately 4-6 hours. This is a time that we need to be in prayer for Tyler, his family and the team of doctors involved. Not only is this a serious surgery, but there are complications that could arise and there is a long healing period that follows.

The strategy of the surgery: The anesthesiologist will insert an epidural into Tyler's groin area to numb his leg. The epidural will remain there for 5 days to prevent Tyler from feeling any pain. The surgeons will remove the tumor from his leg; cutting until there isn't any cancer for at least 1 1/2 centimeters. There will be an incision from his ankle to his upper thigh. They will cut his hamstrings and pull muscles and tendons from the back of his leg and wrap them around muscles in the front of the leg. This will help him to have movement in his leg after it heals. They will install the metal rods screwing them into his remaining bones and replace his knee leaving his patella. The leg will not be casted for probably 3-4 weeks to insure there isn't any infection. It will be casted with the leg extended straight. He will probably remain in the cast for 6 weeks. He will then have tedious physical therapy for many months. Tyler has been on strong antibiotics for a while to help prevent infection. He has a cream that he rubs inside his nose to help prevent staph infections and he has to take an iodine bath Sunday and Monday before the surgery. There is a lot of prevention going on before the surgery even begins. Amazing!!!!

After Tyler's doctors met with him today, he was down. I am sure he is nervous and anxious, who wouldn't be. He went to physical therapy and his friend Vivian was there. She is 14 and had the same surgery about 6 months ago. Even though she had 2 major surgeries and a lot of complications, she was very encouraging for Tyler today. They were enjoying each other's company during PT; talking and laughing. God placed her at the right place and time for Tyler today.

The family will all be together this weekend. Charles is in town for at least 3 weeks. Sarah's sister, Alli, flew in yesterday and their Aunt Debi and Uncle Steve are arriving tomorrow. They have some good support which they really need. The special prayer meeting is still planned for tomorrow also.

I am thankful for a God who cares, listens and loves. I am confident that God is by Tyler's side constantly. We entrust Tyler to HIS care and I know God will be holding him tight Monday morning. Thank you for your prayers!
Stay close! Kim

Rest and Relaxation

2008-09-04T16:43:00.000-07:00

Thursday, September 4

The doctor's finally have a diagnosis for Tyler's fever. CMV....and what is that? Sarah said the medical term was too long and complicated. Basically it was a virus and they determined it by drawing blood and looking for antibodies in his blood. The antibodies that were produced to fight off the virus helped the doctors determine the cause. The good news is he now has those antibodies to fight off the virus if he would develop it again. How he caught it....who knows? This is the main reason the family will not be traveling to Louisville this weekend. His immune system is so weak he could catch anything. It is disappointing but it is the best for Tyler. He needs plenty of rest and relaxation before the surgery. By the way, the surgery date has changed again. The new date is Monday, September 15. They have learned to be flexible and it's a good thing!

Tyler will get to enjoy his weekend and will be off until Tuesday from the hospital. There is an art festival this weekend and they may go to that. It has been rainy and gloomy in Memphis for the last 3 days so they are praying for some sunshine. The kids are bored and ready to get outdoors and enjoy some activities. They are excited to see their aunt Alli (Sarah's younger sister) and cousin Aiko (she is 18 months old) from Tuscon. They are flying in on Thursday to stay for a month. Charles has been busy working in Louisville and will return to Memphis next weekend. Sarah and Charles have a very important meeting with the entire surgical team of doctors on Friday (9/12). Saturday (9/13), Glen's minister, church members, family, friends and anyone who wants to come and pray are welcome. It will be a special prayer session for Tyler. Matthew 18:19-20 tells us when 2 or more are in agreement in prayer, the Holy Spirit will be with them and their requests will be granted. What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday! Amen!

I am thankful for Tyler and his family and their strong faith. What a tough road they have traveled and they have further to go. How do people travel without faith? It is tough to be separated from your husband /father for long periods of time, but tougher when going through something like this. The pressure must be tremendous on both Sarah and Charles. As you pray for Tyler, remember Sarah and Charles also. Stay close to His word! Kim

You Gotta Have Friends

2008-09-03T16:59:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, September 3

What a great day! Why? Because it was just a normal day. No hospital visit. Sarah cleaned house, the kids hung out and they went out to eat with their good friends the Rosses. I am so glad they have the Ross family. They have been such an important part of the Hanson family. They have become their extended family. They ate at Huey's tonight. It is a fun hamburger joint where you throw tooth picks at the ceiling. It sounds like fun.

Tyler received a package from Mrs. McFarren's homeroom class and 8th grade teachers last night. He loved the balloons: Happy Birthday, It's A Girl and a special wedding balloon. Sarah thought that someone made a mistake but Tyler knew that it came from Mrs. McFarren. She is fun and crazy! It made him laugh and he loved the special treats that came with the balloons. Today he received another package of letters from his friends at CAL. Sarah said this makes his day and it means so much to Tyler to hear from his friends. Another friend, Karl Magnuson, made a special DVD for the family. He took special footage from the Walk/Run this summer and put it to music. Tyler hasn't received it yet but I had a special preview and it was awesome. Thanks Karl! All of you have been so wonderful. God has provided encouragement, love and support through all of you. Friends...gotta have em! Stay close! Kim