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Comment by Beth Rosenthal on April 4, 2013 at 8:53pm

Thanks for the update Betsy. You sound like you're doing relatively well. I'm so sad for you, Andrew, and your children. I wish we could pray for a miracle but, it doesn't sound like there's one. I just want you to know I'm thinking of you and your family.

Comment by Betsy Macdonald on April 4, 2013 at 5:25am

Just to update you on Andrew, he is seven week since his diagnosis of "a few months" to live.  We did not do the Temozolomide because he wanted to preserve his quality of life.  His symptoms have increased gradually.  He already had hemiparesis (right side paralysis) and his mobolity is a bit worse but not alot.  He gets tired and has at least one good nap in the day. His speech is getting a bit slurred especially when he is tired.  At certain times he is a bit confused particularly about when and where we have to be during the day.  Overall, he is enjoying life and seeing lots of friends.  We just went on a trip down to Queenstown to see the opening of a huge international standard racetrack.  All of his buddies that raced classic cars with him were there and it was well worth sorting the many logistical details to get there.  My kids are ok and doing well and are getting on as normally as they can. They understand that daddy time is precious and limited.  I have taken paid leave from my job teaching.  The hard part is not knowing for how long that will last.  The school has been very accommodating and supportive and understanding.  Each day strangely get easier but it is hard waiting for the other shoe to drop.  (Like watching a pot boil really)  We have had family photos done and I will post one here when I get hold of them. Please don't lose heart for yourselves or your loved ones when you read this.  He has had three successful surgeries and has survived 16 years since his diagnosis in 1997.

Comment by Peggy Orr on February 18, 2013 at 7:20pm

Hello Betsy:  I was so sorry to hear about your husband's malignant tumor.  It just breaks my heart.  He sounds amazing to fight this fight for so long.  I will be thinking about both of you and will hope and pray (hope that's ok) for strength to fight this new fight.  Sounds like he's the kind of man who can come out the victor.  love,peg

Comment by Ann Manzi on February 12, 2013 at 5:30pm

Betsy, I know about the risk of tumors changing from benign to maligment. I did a lot of research after my emergency craniotomy and definitely asked questions, as some specialists don't share everything. My heart breaks for you and Andrew. I know every day wil be a challenge and know that so many care. In friendship and prayers, ann manzi

Comment by Betsy Macdonald on February 12, 2013 at 3:32pm

Thanks Beth.  This website has been a great resource for me.  

Comment by Beth Rosenthal on February 12, 2013 at 5:43am

I am so sorry Betsy. I've heard of this, but never really connected to anyone this happened to. IJB will also be educating about this possibility w/ benign BTs. It's been up and down for you these last few years. Please keep is posted on how Andrew is.