tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80160928193224920472023-11-16T08:53:01.573-08:00OliviasMomAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-85831871521588062732015-09-04T00:10:00.002-07:002015-09-04T00:10:10.018-07:00September 4, 2015
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In December 2010 Ceil was first diagnosed with breast
cancer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember New Year’s Eve for
the upcoming year at Sebby and Lynn’s house and hugging Ceil to reassure her
that we’d share the bad news after everyone celebrated the New Year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the ball dropped, I told her 2011 was
going to suck, but we’ll get thru it together and 2012 and further we’d be good
to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The plan was simple, stay
positive no matter what and battle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What I didn’t know was Ceil was going to teach me, the kids,
her family, friends and complete strangers the way you take on a dreaded disease
and fight with every ounce of your mind, body and spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Throughout her first battle and again, for
the past 25 months, Ceil’s spirit and attitude never waned even when she
continued to get more negative news and the disease took away her ability to move
and do things for herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Up until the
last few days, Ceil could still light up a room with her great smile and she
was still more interested in seeing how a visitor was doing, than talk about
herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s who she is and who she
will continue to be in all of our hearts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s with a heavy heart, but with gratitude that her
suffering is finally over, that I let you know Ceil passed away at home today,
September <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I would like to thank everyone who has helped us along the
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For two years, we have not had to worry about making dinner
for the kids because our Berlin community has looked out for us with meals
every other day and for that type of support, I cannot thank everyone
enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For all of the notes to Ceil and
for the rides for the kids, thank you for making our tough situation a little
easier.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thank you to the teachers, the nurses and the Doctors who
all touched the kids and Ceil’s lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lastly, I’d like to thank our families who have been there
with love and support.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’d like to leave you with this, we learned many things from
Ceil through the last few years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I
reflect back, probably the two I hope you carry in your life in memory of Ceil;
Smile Every Day and Live Each Day With a Positive Attitude.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">God Bless You Ceil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
love you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Every day may
not be good, but there's something good in every day. ~Author Unknown</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">The day which we
fear as our last is but the birthday of eternity. ~Seneca</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-79848277751372645012015-01-20T13:13:00.001-08:002015-01-20T13:13:38.261-08:00January 20, 2015<br />
<br />
I wanted to give you an update on the MRI and a request to all.<br />
<br />
The MRI from last week came back and we need to keep on fighting. While having clear results would have been the best news possible, Ceil is the toughest woman I know and she'll keep up the good fight. Your positive energy and prayers are all appreciated as battling cancer is not easy for anyone.<br />
<br />
My request - while everyone we know is very important to us and we appreciate your support, being asked from everyone what is going on is not going to work. As I said back in 2011, asking Ceil to repeat what she's got going on does not help her stay positive. You need to understand that while the intention is good, repeating to 50 people what she's going thru is counter-productive. Just know that we are continuing to fight.<br />
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Also and probably the most important, please do not speculate or form your own opinion and repeat it in front of someone that may repeat it and have it overheard from one of our children. Protecting them is just as important to the other battle we have on our hands.<br />
<br />
I appreciate everyone's cooperation regarding these requests.<br />
<br />
So please keep the positive vibes coming our way so Ceil can beat this thing.<br />
<br />
VinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-51358514330368830212014-05-13T13:36:00.003-07:002014-05-13T13:36:55.319-07:00May 13 - First MRI ResultsWe are up at Dana Farber today for Ceil to start the second cycle of the clinical trial. With this cycle, we will come to Boston only once per week for a treatment. At the beginning of each cycle they will do an MRI to see how the treatments are working. So today is the first big day to see if the trips and the hours invested in Boston are paying off. <br />
<br />
Based on the way Ceil has been the last couple of weeks with more energy, better memory and the ability to walk around with only some assistance to make sure she doesn't take any quick rights into a wall, my money was on it was working and getting better. But even with these signs, the scan would be the actual confirmation that the drug is working. <br />
<br />
I am glad to let you know that the scans showed a positive improvement in both her head and spine. While there is still work to be done and the continuation of the treatments will hopefully continue the depletion of any active cells, this is the best news we could get today. <br />
<br />
The advances they have made in cancer research over the past twenty years is what we owe this good news to! And we got the good news the week of the Relay for Life, a cause that raises money for the American Cancer Society. Whatever we need to do as a community and a society to keep the research going until NONE OF US needs to worry about cancer in the future is when we can stop fighting. There's been great support of the Ava'sMom team and other teams in the Berlin Relay - let's keep it up! <a href="http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=58938&pg=team&team_id=1574999" target="_blank">Donate here</a> <br />
<br />
Thanks everyone!<br />
<br />
Tonight, kiss your loved one, let them know you love them and raise a cocktail in honor of our great news!!! Pictures of cocktails are welcomed at <a href="mailto:vbiscoglio@gmail.com">vbiscoglio</a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">@gmail.com</a> or on my Facebook page.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-86079095796943928842014-04-30T15:52:00.003-07:002014-04-30T15:52:29.203-07:00Latest CT ScanIt's been a while since the last post and I wanted to share some good news! Ceil had her latest CT scan today on her neck down, organs and such...and it came back clear! That is a relief with the nausea that started a little bit. We'll take it. The trips to Dana Farber continue and the treatments continue to get easier for Ceil to handle. <br />
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The last two times up to DF Ceil has walked in instead of using a wheelchair which is really great to see. Yesterday we had a few appointments on different floors so we had a lot more walking to do than normal and still was able to walk out instead of taking the easier way out with a ride.<br />
<br />
A couple weeks ago the Berlin Lions and Lenny Tubbs held the Pasta Supper. There were over 800 tickets sold and over 100 raffle prizes donated. I cannot thank Lenny, the Lions and everyone that showed their support. Remember 100% of the profits that we do from any of this go to the American Cancer Society. We are doing our part to raise as much as possible to raise money to find a cure for Ceil and everyone else out there so we can end what a family goes through when a loved one is diagnosed with cancer.<br />
<br />
Theres a few weeks left to the Berlin Relay for Life. Let me know if you are interested in joining the squad.<br />
<br />
Thanks for checking in!<br />
<br />
VinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-73420833721050113062014-04-09T12:40:00.000-07:002014-04-09T12:40:07.507-07:004 trips to Boston the past 4 daysWe've been up to Boston the last four business days for appointments. The last three were for a study to see how the flow of Ceil's spinal fluid is circulating. This is what last week's surgery was for. She had a couple of new valves put into the shunt in her head along with a new reservoir that will accept a needle that will deliver the treatments.<br />
<br /><br />
I was asked today if the Denali had auto-pilot to get us there and we've done it so many times now that I kind of lose track of driving the MA pike, so it has become part of my sub-conscious I suppose. Ceil is able to sleep during the trips which is good based on what time we've been waking up to make the drive. I also pointed out to Ceil that the valet guys seem to know us now and I've definitely got accustomed to city driving!<br />
<br /><br />
Ceil continues to be tired from all of this but we have got to do whatever it takes to get my girl better.<br />
<br /><br />
This weekend is the big Pasta Supper that the Berlin Lions are throwing to support the Ava'sMom Relay for Life team. The support has been staggering! We look forward to a great night of seeing everyone and to raising some money for the continued search for a cure for cancer. <br />
<br /><br />
If you haven't got tickets yet, I would get them soon as the number of tickets sold is incredible. There will be some sold at the door, but they will shut it down when they think they will run out of food. Tickets can be bought thru Friday online at <a href="http://www.berlin-littleleague.com/">www.berlin-littleleague.com</a> under the "association" tab - Berlin Lions Pasta Supper.<br />
<br /><br />
Also, a big shout out to Deb Carson, the Powerhouse Gym and those "Warriors" who showed up to the Warrior Ride this past Saturday. A great event with a lot of people pushing it thinking of Ceil!<br />
<br /><br />
Treatments look like they start next week. I'll let you know once I have a more concrete answer.<br />
<br />Thanks everyone.<br />
<br /><br />
VinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-69315951945528453142014-03-31T12:08:00.001-07:002014-03-31T12:08:11.734-07:00Surgery completeWhile everyone in Berlin, CT was enjoying the March 31st snow event that every news channel missed, including Mama Simeone's beloved Scot Haney, Ceil and I got out right as the flakes started to fly for Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. We arrived on time and she was checked right in. The only delay was the hospital not being able to find her small, deep veins. She told them upfront, but it took an hour of probing to finally give up on the challenge of finding a vein.<br />
<br />
She went into surgery and at about 1:33 the doctor came to see me to let me know that all went according to plan. The rest of the areas of the shunt that were not replaced were working properly which made for the best possible results.<br />
<br />
Ceil is in recovery and will be released tomorrow. She'll be home recovering. Please, lets give her a few days before the phone starts ringing off the hook. Reminder, the Sarge is back in Berlin (Karen Lee Tomlinson)!<br />
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We'll be back up here next Monday for the pre-screening for the clinical trial and then the treatments will start the following Monday, Patriot's Day. Red Sox game at 10:30. Who's got some tix that won't be used?<br />
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Thanks for the prayers and the support.<br />
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-71465638935553737692014-03-26T08:56:00.002-07:002014-03-26T08:56:36.569-07:00And so Dana Farber beginsJust got a call that we will start up in Boston on Monday. Ceil's scheduled for surgery at high noon and we are still waiting to hear how long we'll be up there as the first few days she's got to be monitored. How long will be based on how long the shunt can be turned off.<br />
<br /><br />
We also will take the ride up tomorrow for her pre-opp appointments. This is all good news and we're looking forward to taking part of this clinical trial. With anything like this you can imagine that there is nervousness about the unknown, but we're doing what needs to be done to get Ceil better.<br />
<br /><br />
She had her blood transfusion yesterday and seems to have gotten a little more energy from this. <br />
<br /><br />
Couple of items - <br />
<br /><br />
If you would like to take part in a Warrior Ride to raise money for the Relay for Life, Powerhouse Gym, the official gym of Ceil Biscoglio, they are holding one on Saturday, April 5th from 9 - 12. They are looking for riders and teams to cover an hour or the full three hours. $50/hr. If we fill them up, the event will raise $3300 for the Ava'sMom team and you'll get a heck of a workout! Please contact Deb Carson at Powerhouse to register 860 836-4613.<br />
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Thanks Powerhouse and Deb!!!!<br />
<br /><br />
Berlin Lion's Pasta Supper is Saturday, April 12th from 4:30 - 7:30. HUGE TURNOUT EXPECTED. Make sure to get your tickets from a Lion, Simeone's Mobil, Roger's Market, Kensington Auto or on the Berlin Little League website <a href="http://www.berlin-littleleague.com/">www.berlin-littleleague.com</a> under the association tab. If you can't make it and would like to donate some swag for the raffle, please let me know - <a href="mailto:vbiscoglio@gmail.com">vbiscoglio</a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">@gmail.com</a> or on Facebook - go ahead friend me!<br />
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We'll keep you all updated next week. Thanks to everyone that has helped out and thanks for the wonderful support. I have said it before, but you really learn what community is all about when you face adversity. While the weather still sucks, I wouldn't trade living here in Berlin, CT all because of each and every one of you. A sincere, thank you.<br />
<br /><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-49900779306015606572014-03-24T13:00:00.001-07:002014-03-24T13:00:07.007-07:00March 24 2014First off, thanks to everyone for sending birthday cards to Ava! It made the little girls birthday to get a lot of birthday wishes like her older sister.<br />
<br /><br />
Ceil and I went in for her normal treatment today. She has been feeling weak again, having trouble getting up the stairs at home and developed a cough and had some nausea which continues. We let the Doc know in the appointment about the symptoms and she ordered a blood test which we needed regardless after being off of the radiation. <br />
<br /><br />
The good news is her white blood count is back up. The bad news is her red blood count is down which requires a blood transfusion tomorrow. It's an all day affair at Hartford Hospital. We'll be there first thing in the AM and out by quitting time.<br />
<br /><br />
It just another obstacle that life has thrown at us. My hope is that after the transfusion, Ceil gets some needed energy back and loses the low-grade nausea feeling I'll let you know when she's out and that everything is better.<br />
<br /><br />
Prayers please - Thanks!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-59836837734793516752014-03-14T06:33:00.002-07:002014-03-14T06:33:45.733-07:00Consults at Dana FarberHappy Friday!<br />
<br />
Ceil and I spent Tuesday and Wednesday making the trek to Dana Farber and Brigham & Women's Hospitals for consults this week. It gave me an idea that I think would work out well for consults with Doctors, mortgage people and others. <br />
<br />
This would be in cases where it's a somewhat intermediate drive or over state lines. Imagine if you could sit in front of your camera equipped computer monitor or IPad or smart phone and have the person you are consulting with on the same type of device and talk through a video type service. It would be like you are meeting in person, yet you are at your home or office. I even thought of a name, we could call it a web meeting or dare I say...facetime! Think of the good it would do the environment from the gas and CO2 not burned by big Yukon Denali's, think of the traffic it could cut down on the roads, etc... I need to seriously look into creating something like this. I kid around, but it would make a heck of a lot of sense!<br />
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Regardless, we met with the Docs that gave us the head's up. It looks like next week we will be back up to Boston for pre-screening followed by the start of the clinical trial the following week. The schedule hasn't been set in stone but this is the estimated timeline. Also next week is Ava's 8th birthday. To think that half of Ava's life has been watching her Mom deal with the effects of cancer is heartbreaking. But she and the rest of the kids seem to be handling everything in stride. It shows the resiliency and the strength they get from Ceil from within. She is the toughest fighter I know. She's still tired from the radiation but this past Wednesday seemed to get some energy back. If you do stop by for a visit, please make sure to keep it quick. Ceil is the master of the Italian Goodbye and will not kick you out no matter how tired she's feeling. Please be aware of this.<br />
<br />
Auntie Carla wrote a request and wanted me to post it on here -<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">Hi Family and Friends;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">As promised another birthday request for the very sweet <span style="color: #8000ff;"> Ava Biscolgio</span>. Her 8th birthday is coming up on <span style="color: #8000ff;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1170216630" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">March 20th</span></span></span>. Ava is a sweet and sparkly and looking forward to her <span style="color: #8000ff;">own special day</span>! Please help me fill her mailbox with birthday wishes and let's spread the word! Let's let Ava know she is in our thoughts, especially on her big birthday! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">PLEASE NO GIFTS; only a sweet wish for a sweet girl for a Happy Birthday!</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">Feel free to make the card from scratch, as big or as special as you want. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">You can mail her card to 102 Devonshire way, Kensington, CT 06037</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">I have also set up an email address for virtual birthday wishes at </span><a href="mailto:avasbirthdaywish@gmail.com" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">avasbirthdaywish@gmail.com</span></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span style="font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">There will be a "mailbox" at Simeone's Mobil, 21 Chamberlain Hwy, Berlin to drop cards off as well</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">Please take a few minutes to send a birthday wish to Ava, don't forget to forward to others that may want to send birthday wishes too!</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: bookman old style, new york, times, serif;">P.S. As you're sending your birthday wish to Ava, also send an extra stay-strong thought for Ceil.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Bookman Old Style;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Bookman Old Style;">THANK YOU!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-80726877601623250972014-03-08T17:06:00.001-08:002014-03-08T17:06:46.546-08:00Olivia Wins March Madness Essay for DonationUpdate on Ceil - we are done with radiation and expect to start up at Dana Farber in two weeks for the clinical trial. Where we thought we needed to get an MRI showing that there was still disease, they drug company did not require this and we are doing the trial. We will be in Boston on Wednesday for a consult with the neuro surgeon who will place the port and change out the shunt. Ceil is very tired from the amount of radiation they gave her over the past month. Please understand that she needs her rest, so if you call and she doesn't pick up or call back, she's resting.<br />
<br />
At the middle school, they have their own March Madness each year and it's for the kids to raise money and have some fun playing basketball. I received a call from the teacher who handles March Madness Friday morning to let me know that they had picked Olivia's essay as the winner! Each student that wants to, writes an essay as to why they want the donation to be made to a specific charity. I'm going to share it here for you all to read.<br />
<br />
Also, it's Olivia's 12th birthday today. A huge thanks to all that sent birthday cards to her. Especially the aunt that put it together - Carla RN. She has been walking around the house with a smile from ear to ear. Through our three plus years of dealing with Ceil being sick, the amount of love and support that the community that surrounds us has provided is staggering. I always complain that I want to move away from the cold winters, but I know the reason we all stick around in this miserable part of the country - it's because of the community we all belong and it's because we know spring is right around the corner. <br />
<br />
Here's Olivia's essay that will be donated to Ava'sMom for the Relay for Life. If you would like to donate to the cause after reading Olivia's essay - <a href="http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=58938&pg=team&team_id=1574999" target="_blank">click here </a><br />
<br />
There is also a big pasta dinner being put on by the Lion's Club of Berlin on Saturday, April 12th from 4:30 - 7:30 at McGee School. The event is to raise money in Ceil's name to donate. Ceil and I would love to see you all there. For more information or to buy tickets with a debit or credit card through the Berlin Little League website by <a href="https://leagueathletics.com/UserForm.asp?RegID=75588&org=berlin-littleleague.com" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2/10/14</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-c0688eca-a45f-1143-7535-dcdd2b1b6a66" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear March Madness Committee,</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>I really would </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">love</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> if you could donate some money to Ava's Mom Army. It’s a Relay for Life team that’s run by me and my father. All the money that the team and any other teams collect is all donated to the American Cancer Society.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> I participate in the Relay for Life, because when I was about nine my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was in the hospital for a long time having surgery done and recovering. I missed her so, so much and cried a lot at night. I missed having her with me and her sweet voice always asking me if I had done my homework or cleaned my room, even to tell me to stop asking her questions. I only had my dad for a long time. About a year after she fully recovered I thought it was over. I thought that I would still have her with me all the time, in August in 2013, we went on a vacation to Myrtle Beach. My mom was starting to feel sick and had terrible headaches. At night I would be able to hear her throwing up in the bathroom. So we decided to go home. My dad had dropped me off at my cousins house, along with my brothers and sister. He had said that he was taking my mom to the doctor to get checked out. That night I didn’t sleep a wink. I knew it was happening again. I was scared. The next morning my dad picked us up and said we were going to see mom. She was in the hospital. When I saw her I cried. It wasn’t fair that my mom had to do this twice. I felt so bad. My mom had a tumor in her head and needed brain surgery. She could have died at anytime during the surgery and I wasn’t there to say I loved her, I was really scared. She was in the hospital for three months and had to go to rehab for physical therapy for another month or two. My Nana had to fly down from florida to take care of my family. I still felt awful for her and this is how I can help her.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>If you guys pick the Ava’s mom army it would mean the world to me and especially to my mom. She would be so proud of me if I could win money to donate to the relay for life! I really want to win this because the more money that the American Cancer Society gets, the more scientist can research and find a cure. I just don’t want someone else to go through what my mom had to go through, or anyone not having a relative or a friend at home with them. It really hurts to see people in pain so pick the ava’s mom team so no one will go through this again. We could have a healthier, happier world. Let’s celebrate more birthdays and a longer life.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sincerely,</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Olivia Biscoglio</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ava’s Mom Army</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; line-height: 1.15; text-indent: 36pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-83761108227118462582014-02-28T14:40:00.000-08:002014-02-28T14:40:00.673-08:00Our Visit to Dana Farber February 28thThe last day of February already. Time definitely goes faster the older you get! You'd think by now the weather would be breaking but Mother Nature is obviously disagreeing with Al Gore. <br />
<br />
We went up to Dana Farber to meet with some doctors about a clinical trial they are doing for patients that have had Ceil's type of breast cancer that has moved on to the brain and spine. It's known that the drug she is on - herceptin - is great at going after HER 2 Positive cancer cells and wiping them out. This is the drug she was on upfront with her original diagnosis in 2010. The issue is that the herceptin molecules have a tough time getting thru the protective membrane that protects our brain and spine from toxins and other elements. This protective "plastic wrap" doesn't know that the herceptin is there to help and will not let it in to combat the HER 2 Pos cells. <br />
<br />
This clinical trial will present the herceptin directly into the spinal fluid through a port that will be inserted into Ceil's head. This will be accessed for treatments just like the one she has now that is direct to her jugular vein. The thought is the herceptin drug being introduced right into the spinal fluid will allow the drug to do what it's meant to do. Wipe out the cancer cells that exist.<br />
<br />
In order to do this, Ceil would have surgery in Boston to insert the port and to swap out the shunt so that it's programmable. Believe it or not, this type of brain surgery is outpatient, where you go in and are checked out the same day.<br />
<br />
If we go this route, we'll need to go up twice a week for the first month, once a week for the second month and every other there forward. A lot of time in the car listening to NASCAR radio - Ceil's favorite!<br />
<br />
To be eligible, Ceil will need another MRI and have her spinal fluid checked to verify that cancer cells still exist. If there isn't evidence of them, she will not participate in the trial. Prayers that God finally decides that she's been put through enough and smiled all the way through it and it is gone and never comes back!<br />
<br />
She's been doing radiation for the past three weeks and is coming down to her last week on Friday. The treatments are making her tired but she seems to be getting a bot better with the walking. I've been working out of the house for the past three weeks quite a bit just as a precaution and I have to say, it's pretty good! I'm able to do everything I need to to keep my clients happy and my company makes things very efficient which is great. Hold on one sec for a shameless plug - who do you know that can use my help buying or refinancing their home in CT or MA right now or in the coming months? Please call me to introduce me so I can make sure to help them out 860 305-1609. There that wasn't too painful, but someones got to pay for the blog!<br />
<br />
Kids are doing great. They've been through a bunch but are resilient. <br />
<br />
We'll keep you updated here over the next few weeks as we know more. Thanks for checking in and a HUGE thank you to all that have dropped Ceil cards, messages, dinners, etc...<br />
<br />
One last thing - The Berlin Lions is having a pasta dinner on April 12th to raise money in Ceil's name for the Relay for Life and American Cancer Society. It should be a ton of fun and 100% of the proceeds will be donated as everything has been donated. More info on tickets will be posted here once the flyer is completed. We are in need of donations for the raffle. If your company or you would like to help out and throw some swag our way, we'll take care of raising money with it!<br />
<br />
Tell someone you love them, choose a positive attitude and enjoy your blessings!<br />
<br />
Vin<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-16496215813046389092014-02-07T08:44:00.000-08:002014-02-07T08:44:08.830-08:00The Battle ContinuesI just wanted to update everyone with what is going on with Ceil. Due to her getting week in the legs and having a tingling sensation in her legs, the doctor suggested that we get an MRI done on Ceil's lower back. We did this last week and were called to let us know that she has some disease that spread to her lower spine. We started radiation again this Wednesday and she'll be going for the next month over to UConn. We worked it into the schedule where we are able to get the kids off on the school bus and head over there. What I have found is when you have something going on like this, structure is the key to keeping your sanity.<br />
<br /><br />
We are also going to meeting with Ceil's Doc to look at a clinical trial up at Dana Farber in Boston. With Hartford Hospital now being part of the Sloan Kettering system, we are also seeing what they have available.<br />
<br /><br />
The kids are doing good. From our first bout three years ago, I was told that kids are resilient - there isn't a question in my mind that this is true!<br />
<br /><br />
Everyone always asks me if there is anything they can do for us so I will put this out there - the Ava's Mom team for the Relay for Life will be on the Relay website today. Please help support the team so we can raise money for the fight against Cancer. The Relay for Life is the non-profit that Ceil loves being a part of. This year, Olivia has asked that she be the captain of the team. Like I said, kid's are resilient and Olivia wants to make this year's Relay the best ever so she wants to get involved in support of her Mom.<br />
<br /><br />
Here's the link - you can donate, join, buy a luminaria to remember or celebrate someone special. <a href="http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLCY14NE?team_id=1574999&pg=team&fr_id=58938" target="_blank">Support or Join Ava'sMom 2014 link</a><br />
<br /><br />
One other request - and this idea came from Auntie Carla - <br />
<br /><br />
<div>
Hello Family and Friends,</div>
<div>
I am reaching out to you today to let you know of a very special day coming up; Olivia's 12th Birthday on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_956747013" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">March 8th</span></span></span>. I have a simple request to fill her mailbox with birthday wishes. Let's let her know she is in our thoughts, especially on her Birthday! Can we spread the word about a special girls' special day? I think we can! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
PLEASE NO GIFTS; just a sincere wish for a Happy Birthday!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Feel free to make the card from scratch, as big or little or as sparkly as you want, as we all know Olivia is a Sparkly young lady! </div>
<div>
You can mail her card to her home address...</div>
<div>
I have set up an email address to send her virtual birthday wishes at <a href="mailto:oliviasbirthdaywish@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">oliviasbirthdaywish@gmail.com</span></a></div>
<div>
or there will be a "mailbox" at Simeone's Mobil, 21 Chamberlain Hwy, Berlin to drop cards off as well.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Please take a few minutes to send a birthday wish to Olivia. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
P. S. Ava's birthday is coming up too at the end of March, so stay tuned for another birthday wish request :) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With that, your prayers are appreciated and we'll keep fighting the fight on our end. Remember, only you get to decide if it's going to be a Positive or Negative day - Choose Positive!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Vin</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-15798010398673478552013-12-06T12:50:00.002-08:002013-12-06T12:50:30.747-08:00MRI ResultsSo I received the results today from the Radiology Oncologist from the MRI done yesterday to follow up on the three weeks of radiation Ceil had after the surgery. I am glad to let you know that it came back CLEAR!! The two very small specs they were concerned about are gone and the area that surrounded the tumor are clear. This is the best news we could have received! We'll have to watch things over the coming months and years due to what popped up over the last year, but we'll take it.<br />
<br />
So this weekend, raise a glass to toast the good news and say a prayer for Ceil that things will continue to get better for her.<br />
<br />
Happy Holidays!<br />
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-44620047814600375982013-10-22T15:13:00.001-07:002013-10-22T15:13:49.747-07:00October 22Time for an update!<br />
<br />
My mom, Karen T, was finally able to depart the state of CT to go down south to sunny Florida as Ceil continues to get better. To state that her help is what got us through a tough time is the understatement of the year. We couldn't have accomplished what we did without her and I will be forever grateful. We'll see her soon as Ed and Kar come back before Turkey Day and stay until Santa comes but I believe beat him back to Florida (it's a little known fact that Santa, in fact, does not stay in the North Pole during the winter anymore. With the price of heating and the Elves unionizing to get Obama-care, he's resorted to the possibility of shutting down the biz)<br />
<br />
Like I said, Ceil is getting better. I think it is definitely taking more time than we both imagined but at least the small steps are in the right direction. She finished up radiation therapy last week so that ends her daily trip to Farmington. <br />
<br />
Since then, she has had another scan neck-down to verify no other tumors or lesions have developed which we are elated to let you know came back 100% clear. In a couple of months they will do another MRI to check her head to see how the radiation therapy did.<br />
<br />
Ceil is going to have another power port put in on Friday. This will be used to give her herseptin (you will notice alot of mispelled words in my blogs - I'm not a Doctor. Medicine names tend to get mispelled by me. I don't feel bad though, the darn spell checker hasn't figured them out either). The herseptin is used as a preventative drug to deter any cancer coming back in the future. Ceil will get a 1/2 hour bag thru the port every third week. The port just makes it easier due to Ceil's small, deep veins.<br />
<br />
So all in all, a good post for you to go out and celebrate!<br />
<br />
Thanks for checking in.<br />
<br />
VinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-37395809509242980262013-10-09T14:39:00.001-07:002013-10-09T14:39:28.595-07:00Been a whileSorry it has been so long since the last post. I have been in the middle of a move from Envoy to Village Mortgage...I know, can you believe I had to put work first for a while? Like all moves, it was a little stressful but with the support of Ceil and my Mom, it went as good as it could.<br />
<br />
Ceil update - PT over Today!! OT over last week!! Speech Therapy - as expected, that was the first thing she was done with...the girl can talk. She also went to an eye specialist today that figured out why she was having issues with the mid-range sight and was able to figure out to correct it. The guy...well, he's a specialist. Highly recommended by Ceil.<br />
<br />
I want to thank everyone for respecting Ceil's time at home to recooperate. The rest and therapy has worked wonders and she has come a very long way in a relatively short period of time. To throw in a plug - if anyone you know is in need of home health care or therapy, Salute Health Care was great to work with and Ceil will attest to that. Thanks to everyone at Salute.<br />
<br />
Ceil has been doing radiation therapy for the past two weeks. She has one more week left. She went back to UConn in Farmington as she did the last time she needed radiation for the original breast cancer. The reason for the need for radiation is as you probably have figured out, the tumor removed from her brain did have traces of the breast cancer in it. There were also a couple of specs on the MRI outside of the tumor. The tumor itself was verified to be completely removed from the MRI scan. The Doc felt the best course of action to minimize the reoccurence in the brain was to do the radiation treatments. Ceil has done exceptionally well through radiation. It hasn't really knocked her out at all. We hope this continues. <br />
<br />
We meet with her Oncologist on Friday to come up with the rest of the plan as to how to treat for preventative measures going forward.<br />
<br />
We received the big box today filled with an afgan (spelled completely wrong!) and a book with the people that knitted the squares to make it. Like all the support we have received, it was just another reminder of how much love there is for Ceil out there. I let Carla know that it was absolutely the best thing I have ever seen in my life. It really tugs at the heart strings and from the husband, thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to put that together. It is huge, colorful and means the world to her.<br />
<br />
I'm going to end this post with a copy of the letter that was in the package. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Dear
Ceil,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">We
hope this package brings you strength and the feeling of love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This project was started for you when some of
us heard that your blanket had gone missing at The Hospital for Special
Care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We knew we could never replace the
one that was gone, but the idea was to make a new blanket for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One that would provide for you a feeling of
strength and let you know how many people are rooting for your quick and full
recovery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">So
we started knitting, and thinking about colors for yarn and although you are
strong and tough, we searched for the softest materials to bring you
comfort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People all around Connecticut,
New England and as far away as Florida knitted and shopped for materials for
your new blanket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each yarn was hand chosen for you, and each
square was hand knit for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each
square is as unique as your relationship with that person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And even though each square was chosen and
knit individually, they have all been sewn together, in the hopes of providing
even more strength and warmth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The
book was put together for you to see<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>what materials each person chose for you, and to have as a keepsake if
you ever need reminding that we are all thinking of you, your kids, your
family, and wishing you the best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">With
Much Love, Prayers and Warmth,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Your
Family and Friends<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4nYl7UCrDMmUPIjQ2P_FJtEabzS0-KLLv84m8WZ-wTfFANdPMBos1AfuHWEXvQkE9xIcT6NSfZ4L8btjpAxOtW5gwWr-Lw0DY5DmwG5zdNJDIZrYDnO6qOXL36a8H77ygwYaC3aIGDAd/s1600/back+afgan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4nYl7UCrDMmUPIjQ2P_FJtEabzS0-KLLv84m8WZ-wTfFANdPMBos1AfuHWEXvQkE9xIcT6NSfZ4L8btjpAxOtW5gwWr-Lw0DY5DmwG5zdNJDIZrYDnO6qOXL36a8H77ygwYaC3aIGDAd/s1600/back+afgan.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-84047374006612186472013-09-17T04:59:00.003-07:002013-09-17T04:59:32.753-07:00Making a Mark from an 11 year oldCeil is continuing to recover. She sounds 100% like her old self with complete memory back and not saying things that come from left field with no ryhme nor reason. It's great to hear her back to normal. I've been pushing her to rely less on the walker which she is doing now. While still a little wobbly, she is definitely getting her strength back and her legs are starting to look like they have muscle again.<br />
<br />
I wanted to share something with you that Olivia wrote for school. When I picked it up, I had no idea what I was about to read. The perspective of an 11 year old can be pretty powerful. With all the talk about being positive, please read what an 11 year old's perspective is after having a Mom that was diagnosed with cancer. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">I
am going to make my mark at McGee by making everyone smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate to see people sad because it brings
back flooding memories of when I was nine and found out my mom had cancer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All I really needed was a laugh or a smile,
so I’m not going to let people just be sad and lonely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to make someone’s day because all
you need is a smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No more pain or
sadness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You just forget for a while and
feel happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So happy it will warm your
heart on a freezing, cold day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<br />
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Olivia
Biscoglio<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I hope this made it a better day for you and gave you some prospective that there is a silver lining with all that life throws at you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-71318211523399168652013-09-12T18:54:00.002-07:002013-09-12T18:54:24.188-07:00Return to Home SetThe day we have been waiting for exactly one month is tomorrow. Ceil will be checking out of HSC tomorrow at 11 and I will be bringing her directly home. She will continue with therapy at home for PT/OT/ST through Salute Home Health Care. We picked Salute as it is the very same Italian word we say when we clink wine glasses while we are making the Simeone Vino in September. <br />
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Kidding of course, Salute is a company owned by a friend of mine that handles exactly what Ceil will need for home care. It's great to know someone I can count on to put this all together...Crea, that is an official plug - kickback...<br />
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Ceil is looking forward to coming home to be with the kids and to be in her home which I hope will give her the ability to recuperate quickly. The road to recovery may be long but it will make it even sweeter when she gets there. <br />
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The kids continue to do well under the circumstances of having their mom away for so long. Something I wish no child would ever have to endure. But the kids did show maturity understanding everything she is going through is to make her well again. <br />
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While I know everyone wants Ceil to be back to the way she was a month and 1 day ago, please understand that this recovery will take time as she went through some very serious surgery. It's things you don't know or understand until you have got to live through it. As amazing as you could ever think the brain or the body is, you go through what we just did and you realize what a complete miracle the human body is. Just to know what it takes for a human to do the daily, taken for granted tasks we all do (like type what I just typed), it truly is a miracle. Something we should never take for granted.<br />
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My Uncle John text me when this all first started telling me to stay strong, BiscStrong. I have received hundreds of emails, texts and people telling me to stay strong which I think I have pretty much held it all together under the circumstances. <br />
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Through this journey I realize where that strength has come from for me. It comes from the tanacity of my beautiful wife who inspires me to know you can get through anything with the right attitude and you can get through it with grace. I learned this two years ago, and she just showed me again. Truly the toughest woman I know!<br />
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I also get my strength from my mother. The one I called to say I needed her help when this all started. Without skipping a beat, she uprooted her and Ed's life to move into the house and take care of the kids...and pretty much everything else...for me so I could do what I needed to with Ceil without needing to worry about where the kids would be. She also has been here anytime I needed to talk and doesn't wince anymore when the occasional F-bomb comes from my lips. I know I don't tell her nearly enough but I love you Mom and I can't imagine going through this without your support. Thanks for showing me how to be tough and it means the world to me that you are here. <br />
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Thanks to Ceil's Mom, Dad, siblings and in-laws for your help through this all as well. You guys are a close knit family that has remained close and there for each other through thick and thin. You are a testament to what a family is all about. For all the kidding I do about never leaving the nest on Edgewood Road, in reflection, I don't know why anyone ever would. <br />
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I also want to thank everyone that has helped with the support, getting the kids places, and lending an ear, etc... While this isn't over, we appreciate it and appreciate it in the future. <br />
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So tomorrow Ceil comes back to us at home. We'll start that next chapter of our lives with big smiles on our face that she is back where she belongs. We'll stay positive and we'll appreciate every single day. I hope you do the same!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-24934646175103091282013-09-10T11:55:00.001-07:002013-09-10T11:55:39.326-07:00Good News on a TuesdayI met with the case worker at HSC this morning to discuss how Ceil is coming along. While she is getting better, she still needs some therapy both physical and occupational. The great news is they feel as though she will be able to come home on Friday!!! She will need 24 hour supervision which I along with my dedicated staff at Devonshire Rehab will be glad to do. She also is having a little short term memory loss which is typical for the type of serious procedure she had done.<br />
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So there is the good news to make your Tuesday a heck of a lot brighter.<br />
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The kids and I are looking forward to getting her home on Friday!! Feel free to load up Devonshire Way with signs and banners welcoming her home.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-25326773989378255302013-09-06T21:41:00.000-07:002013-09-06T21:41:45.402-07:00Friday updateCeil's being doing well. She's got her marbles all together and they have cut down her speech therapy from two sessions to one a day cause like you would expect, her talking has come back faster than expected. I'd imagine that it's due to her 42 years of heavy exercise over the phone and in person.<br />
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As far as her recovery with PT and OT, it is and will be longer than I think we both anticipated. Last time we went through a major ordeal with her breast cancer, the most Ceil was gone from the house was about a week. As of today, she has not been home since August 12th. Way too long! <br />
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Ceil is doing well and pushing herself, but the amount of strength you lose in such a short time is unbeleivable and is taking time to recover. She is doing 4 OT and PT sessiona 6 days a week. Her strength is getting better, but there is a lot of work ahead.<br />
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The kids continue to do well with what is going on. With the support system we have had in the past and with whats going on, it makes it all possible.<br />
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Guys, just know this - your support is extremely appreciated and its why Ceil made a recovery through her last battle. While I would never ever wish it on anyone, it gave Ceil and I our eye opening moment that life is fragile and you need to appreciate every single day. You need to take what life gives you and figure out what is truly important. You need to get rid of the negative bullshit in your life and truly decide that you will live as a positive person that will make your time on earth a betterment for the people you know and surround you. <br />
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If you realize and understand this from following along, maybe, just maybe, this all will make sense to you.<br />
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As I have been typing this, I got an email from our sister-in-law Carla that went out to a distribution list. I want to share it because I think it is absolutely awesome and know Ceil will appreciate it. I have been asked by so many of you what ever you can do to help...this may be it - please read and make this happen for Ceil.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hello Family and Friends,<span> </span>I have a project in mind, and I’m asking for your craftiness! This project is for Ceil.<span> </span>During her stay at Hospital for Special Care, her very favorite blanket has gone missing.<span> </span>From what I hear it was very special to her and helped comfort her during treatments for Breast Cancer.<span> </span>It would be impossible to replace!<span> </span>So the idea I had was to create a new blanket, one that will also give her strength and let her know how many people care and are rooting for her quick recovery.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have employed my Grandmother, aka Big Nonni, to help me, and I’d like your help too.<span> </span>The idea is to have as many friends and family knit squares that can then be knitted together to make her one big blanket.<span> </span>Each square can be as unique as your relationship with Ceil.<span> </span><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I know there may be people that don’t know how to knit, like me </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><span>J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> , but would still like to contribute, so there are a few options:<span> </span>You can pick out the yarn you would like to see used, send it to me and Big Nonni can knit the square for you, OR you can send a silk ribbon that can be added to the blanket as an embellishment.<span> </span>Any unused materials that you send will be returned to you.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Just a few more things: <u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please make your square 6” X 6 “ ( feel free to make more than one)<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When you make your squares, please leave your name, a message (optional) and an extra piece of material on the side so I can put the yarn with the name/ message all together <span> </span>in a book or folder when we give it to Ceil.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I will have a box at Simeone’s Mobil, <span> </span>21 Chamberlain Hwy, behind the counter to collect all squares and ribbons.<span> </span>Please have your materials in a bag to keep it clean and all together.<span> </span>The employees will be aware that the<span> </span>materials will be coming in <u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I would be happy to pick up any materials as well! <u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now we all know how strong Ceil is, but when you’re picking yarn, think soft and cozy.<span> </span>Any and All colors too! <span> </span><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here are some links of Soft yarn ideas.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.joann.com/bernat-soft-boucle-yarn/prd27703/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">http://www.joann.com/bernat-<wbr></wbr>soft-boucle-yarn/prd27703/</span></a><u></u><u></u></div>
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<a href="http://www.joann.com/martha-stewart-crafts-extra-soft-wool-blend-yarn/zprd_11116258a/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">http://www.joann.com/martha-<wbr></wbr>stewart-crafts-extra-soft-<wbr></wbr>wool-blend-yarn/zprd_<wbr></wbr>11116258a/</span></a><u></u><u></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.michaels.com/Bernat-Baby-Blanket/nw0976,default,pd.html?cgid=products-yarnandneedlecrafts-yarn-bernat" target="_blank">http://www.michaels.com/<wbr></wbr>Bernat-Baby-Blanket/nw0976,<wbr></wbr>default,pd.html?cgid=products-<wbr></wbr>yarnandneedlecrafts-yarn-<wbr></wbr>bernat</a><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">My email is </span><a href="mailto:simeonecarla@sbcglobal.net" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">simeonecarla@sbcglobal.net</span></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">, cell<a href="tel:860.967.9031" target="_blank" value="+18609679031">860.967.9031</a>, home <a href="tel:860.284.4242" target="_blank" value="+18602844242">860.284.4242</a> for any questions, pick-ups etc. <u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’d like to collect everything by <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_498933609" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">September 20</span></span>, and have the blanket ready for her as soon as possible after that.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size: small;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you’d like a photo of the finished product, leave your email or home address and I can forward it along when it’s done.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I've added as many family and friends that I could think of, but PLEASE FORWARD to others that may want to contribute too! Oh, and try to keep it a secret!, Shhh!<var></var><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks for helping out! I can’t wait to see what it’s going to look like and present it to her!<span> </span>Feel free to call with any questions! Carla<span class="HOEnZb"><span style="color: #888888;"><u></u><u></u></span></span></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-79173672676094127002013-09-03T06:34:00.001-07:002013-09-03T06:34:25.275-07:00Tuesday 9/2Happy September! Unreal how fast time flies.<br />
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After our Saturday, Ceil had a couple of good days with no therapy due to Sunday and the holiday yesterday. Today she's got a lot of therapy scheduled so she will be tired throughout the day I am sure.<br />
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Yesterday I brought up Great Taste (its on the way) and both of us agree, Wa-Wah in Berlin is much better tasting chinese. <br />
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Everyone in the house is counting down the days until Ceil is able to come home.<br />
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The lack of news to give you is welcomed on our end.<br />
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Slow and steady recovery is what we'd like to continue.<br />
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Have a great day and thanks for following along.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-60686578830384984162013-08-31T19:20:00.001-07:002013-08-31T19:20:43.344-07:00Good newsAfter eight agonizing hours in the Hartford Hospital ER the CAT scan was finally read and proved to be negative which is great news. Ceil has returned to HSC and will continue her therapy.<div><br></div><div>I was able to catch up on the 1st three out of four installments of Indiana Jones on USA while waiting.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-20429601884731385102013-08-31T09:28:00.001-07:002013-08-31T09:28:25.442-07:00Saturday updateAll afternoon visits are suspended. Our patient tried to get up herself and took a spill. As a precaution they sent her back to Hartford for a ct scan. I did speak with her and she sounded fine. Once we are out of here I will give the blog an update.<div><br></div><div>Thanks</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-42545060037709783942013-08-29T15:14:00.001-07:002013-08-29T15:14:34.786-07:00On to her next stopCeil was discharged and transported to Hospital for Special Care in NB. Many thanks to Dr Rossi and the staff at HHS who took care of Ceil. We'll miss the great nurses but it definitely was time to go. It ended up being a full two weeks in the hospital. <div><br></div><div>Couple of things I won't miss - the parking garage and the inconsiderate boobs that take up two spots in an already overcrowded garage, the residents of Hartford that believe everywhere and anywhere on a street is a crosswalk mo matter the time of day and for Ceil the cowboy coffee.</div><div><br></div><div>We got to HSC at about 3:30 pm. Robin greeted us at the door and got Ceil all setup in her room with her hand picked team to get Ceil home as soon as possible. </div><div><br></div><div>If you are going to visit Ceil please let me know. She's got therapy throughout the day so I'd be able to let you know a good time. It'll also allow me to run crowd control so she's not overwhelmed and have any setbacks. If you do visit her, please understand even if she's tired, she won't tell you to leave so please use common sense if she seems tired. Remember its all about getting Ceil home to the kids and I as soon as possible,</div><div><br></div><div>Thanks everyone, she's a little closer to home!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-56459001573575818242013-08-28T11:14:00.001-07:002013-08-28T11:14:56.949-07:001st day outCeil is doing great today!!!!!! Wide awake, watching TV and able to read some of the magazines she has. Her headaches seem to have diminished.<div><br></div><div>The kids went back to school today and all with no tears. I was nervous for them without mom being there.</div><div><br></div><div>It looks like we will be checking out in a couple days with a temporary stop at a rehab facility. We are hoping to get her over to Hospital for Special Care to be with our friend Robin Cop to whip her into shape. </div><div><br></div><div>So all good news from Hartford today!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8016092819322492047.post-86866022174720738592013-08-27T08:21:00.005-07:002013-08-27T08:21:44.264-07:00Time to moveI just got the call that Ceil is being moved to a step down unit which is good news. The Doc let me know we need to get her moving and out of the ICU which will hopefully get her energized a bit. She is still very tired and definitely likes to sleep more than ever. With the change of scenery and a roomate, I am sure she will be looking to break out.<br />
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Please do me a favor and understand that I am requesting that everyone holds off on coming up to the hospital. The worst thing we can do is keep her awake and using energy to visit with everyone and when the kids show up, she is sleeping. I appreciate you respecting this and it goes for everyone that does not have Simeone blood pumping through their body.<br />
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One of the things Ceil requested from me before surgery was for me to volunteer to run this year's Berlin Relay for Life. With so many things going on in my life I had said No in the past as it would just add another layer of responsibility to my docket. I have obviously had some time to really think about the important things in life over the past week and a half and let Ceil know that I would do it. My decision was based on how important the Relay for Life is to Ceil and what it means to her. Working with her on it will be one of the most satisfying jobs I will be involved with in my 43 years to date. <br />
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So be on the lookout for something coming up the pike to celebrate Ceil's recovery from this ordeal which will use to also raise funds for the Relay for Life. I would imagine it will be an event like the last Ava'sMom benefit which we raised a bunch of cash and everyone had a phenomenal time...and who could forget the Ava'sMom Drink?<br />
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If you want to be on the advance invite list to receive info on this, just shoot an email to me.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10913995754845048967noreply@blogger.com