I feel a little redundant each time I post a message, because I am always thanking everyone for all of your generosity. As one of the wise gentlemen that I work with always tells me, “I wish there were stronger words than Thank You.” I feel as though I just can’t say it enough. All of the cards that everyone has sent to Barry and Shirley should keep the Post Office operating for several years and means so much to both of them. The whole family has really enjoyed all of the food and dinners that so many people have helped out with. For those of you who know us, we are BIG fans of food! Unexpected giving like sending over a gardener and a subscription to Netflix are also greatly appreciated! And each little token of kindness allows us all to spend a little more time together. So for lack of better words, THANK YOU!
I have titled this post, “Live, Laugh, and Love”. If you were to spend any time in the Riggs house, you would find a lot of all 3. We spend a lot of time laughing-and everyone knows how much Dad likes to laugh. Sometimes he begs us to stop laughing because it hurts so much. It is also apparent that there is TONS of love all around us. Don and Alice have arrived in town and have been spending time with the family and have brought some pictures from the past with them. It is apparent that we have always been a family with lots of love to give. Some of the best pictures are from camping and motorcycle trips, Grandma on a pony, and some great pictures that are older than me.
Living is not as easy to describe, or even talk about. Everyone is always talking about living for today. This really has involved talking a lot about the past. In a life changing event like this, you realize how much living you really have done. There are many times that we sacrifice or make big changes in life, without knowing the outcome. It isn’t until later that you realize the rewards of the sacrifice or change. Barry has always given of himself for others. I remember stopping on the side of the road to help a stranger in distress or helping someone fix their car for nothing more than dinner. He continues to help us all live a better and more fulfilling life. I have never thought twice about stopping to tow in a fellow boater or helping a friend in need with nothing expected in return.
We hope that you all take time to appreciate each other in your own home. Take a few moments to Live, Laugh, and Love with your family and friends. And remember to appreciate every minute that you have together. We have realized that each minute together is precious and creates a memory that can last longer than any picture.
With Love and Many Thanks!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
More of Your Emails
Hello Barry,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. My Dad lights a candle for you in church every week when he attends. Scott say's we still owe you and Shirley dinner. Remember our first meeting, Shawn & Tiffany took us out on the boat and it broke down. We had a great time even though the boat broke down and we needed to get towed back to the dock. It was too late for us to go out for dinner. We'll never forget the day. Over all it was a great time.
You are a wonderful, happy soul with a great jolly laugh.
Scott and I will bring dinner to you and Shirley. You have too much life left and will fight this battle.
See you soon,
all our love Scott & Cindy Coppes
To Barry:
"During this time may sweet memories fill your heart. And if your soul needs to shed some tears -let them flow. And if laughter creeps in...give yourself that gift. May time be your friend and give you comfort."
My heart is filled with sorrow for the pain you have to go through. My thoughts and prayers are with you everyday. I will continue to follow your blog.
Love you,
Your Canadian Cousin Rita
Barry is a man that loves unconditionally. He always has time for anyone and any project that came along the way. His family has always been his priority and he showed that in everything that he did. We are praying for him and all those around him.
Amber Pimm
Hello, Barry and your Family
This, is Becky Borud. Don and Lylas' neice. We met quite a few times when we would make a trip to California, from North Dakota.
Our prayers are with you. My Mom called last night to tell me about your sickness. My Dad is battleing with cancer for the 3rd time, as well. God is with us all.
Love from Bob, Roberta and Becky Borud
Barry,
I remember when I was in grade 11, I got a chance to go to your mom and dad's in Calgary for my summer holidays. I had picked strawberries (I earned $1 for every 24 pints I picked) to earn money for bus fare. This was my first trip alone and my first time on a Greyhound bus.
When I arrived in Calgary, Don and Alice were living in a trailer park and they had this small dark haired boy in a stroller. I took you for a walk every day in that stroller. I was no stranger to kids as Pearl had a few and I had spent a lot of time at her place. You were a very huggable and cheerful even then. I am glad you kept close contact with all of us over the years. Ours is a special family.
Your mom and dad both come from large families and then each of these families expanded. At the Riggs family reunion, we had over a hundred people there and not all members of the family were there. Just think two people, my mom and my dad started all this for the Riggs clan. I think the Morisseau family is even bigger. That's a lot of family.
At one of the family reunions, one of the family members had told Barry that they couldn't afford to go. Barry said, "The way I see it, you can't afford not to go." This was Barry's view of family; family is important.
Love,
Aunt Winnie
Dauphin, Manitoba
You are in my thoughts and prayers. My Dad lights a candle for you in church every week when he attends. Scott say's we still owe you and Shirley dinner. Remember our first meeting, Shawn & Tiffany took us out on the boat and it broke down. We had a great time even though the boat broke down and we needed to get towed back to the dock. It was too late for us to go out for dinner. We'll never forget the day. Over all it was a great time.
You are a wonderful, happy soul with a great jolly laugh.
Scott and I will bring dinner to you and Shirley. You have too much life left and will fight this battle.
See you soon,
all our love Scott & Cindy Coppes
To Barry:
"During this time may sweet memories fill your heart. And if your soul needs to shed some tears -let them flow. And if laughter creeps in...give yourself that gift. May time be your friend and give you comfort."
My heart is filled with sorrow for the pain you have to go through. My thoughts and prayers are with you everyday. I will continue to follow your blog.
Love you,
Your Canadian Cousin Rita
Barry is a man that loves unconditionally. He always has time for anyone and any project that came along the way. His family has always been his priority and he showed that in everything that he did. We are praying for him and all those around him.
Amber Pimm
Hello, Barry and your Family
This, is Becky Borud. Don and Lylas' neice. We met quite a few times when we would make a trip to California, from North Dakota.
Our prayers are with you. My Mom called last night to tell me about your sickness. My Dad is battleing with cancer for the 3rd time, as well. God is with us all.
Love from Bob, Roberta and Becky Borud
Barry,
I remember when I was in grade 11, I got a chance to go to your mom and dad's in Calgary for my summer holidays. I had picked strawberries (I earned $1 for every 24 pints I picked) to earn money for bus fare. This was my first trip alone and my first time on a Greyhound bus.
When I arrived in Calgary, Don and Alice were living in a trailer park and they had this small dark haired boy in a stroller. I took you for a walk every day in that stroller. I was no stranger to kids as Pearl had a few and I had spent a lot of time at her place. You were a very huggable and cheerful even then. I am glad you kept close contact with all of us over the years. Ours is a special family.
Your mom and dad both come from large families and then each of these families expanded. At the Riggs family reunion, we had over a hundred people there and not all members of the family were there. Just think two people, my mom and my dad started all this for the Riggs clan. I think the Morisseau family is even bigger. That's a lot of family.
At one of the family reunions, one of the family members had told Barry that they couldn't afford to go. Barry said, "The way I see it, you can't afford not to go." This was Barry's view of family; family is important.
Love,
Aunt Winnie
Dauphin, Manitoba
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Peachy Chemo
Dad says he's feeling "peachy chemo" these days. He is so strong and has been handling the chemo fairly well so far. He has had no nausea or vomiting from his treatments, the only real side effect he's had is some sensitivity to cold in his fingers and hands. Today they were able to drain his abdomen again, they removed a little more than 2 liters of fluid. Hopefully the chemo will kick in and stop the cancer from producing this fluid that's making him so uncomfortable.
He's been craving certain foods, Mexican food and spaghetti. We've all listened and Tuesday night five of our family members made spaghetti for him...not to mention the fact that we're on a first name basis with the Taqueria. We've been catering to his every wish, god bless Shirley!
Grandpa and Grandma (Barry's parents) are on their way here from New Mexico, Dad is looking forward to seeing his dad and mom. His spirits are high and he really is feeling better than he has in weeks, he's on the phone and just told his mom "I feel like a million bucks tonight". Dad is really enjoying all of the time he's been able to spend with his family and friends over the past few weeks. Thanks for all of your support!
A NOTE FROM BARRY & SHIRLEY:
We thank all of our family and friends for all of their support in each and every way! Thank you for all of your prayers and well wishes! God bless you all, and good tidings.
He's been craving certain foods, Mexican food and spaghetti. We've all listened and Tuesday night five of our family members made spaghetti for him...not to mention the fact that we're on a first name basis with the Taqueria. We've been catering to his every wish, god bless Shirley!
Grandpa and Grandma (Barry's parents) are on their way here from New Mexico, Dad is looking forward to seeing his dad and mom. His spirits are high and he really is feeling better than he has in weeks, he's on the phone and just told his mom "I feel like a million bucks tonight". Dad is really enjoying all of the time he's been able to spend with his family and friends over the past few weeks. Thanks for all of your support!
A NOTE FROM BARRY & SHIRLEY:
We thank all of our family and friends for all of their support in each and every way! Thank you for all of your prayers and well wishes! God bless you all, and good tidings.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Your Emails to Barry
Thanks to everyone who has sent emails for Barry and Shirley. I have forwarded them on for their reading. Here are some of the wonderful words that you have shared with us.
"...your aunt Audrey and I were best buds in high school. Your dad was older brother to us all. He taught me to water ski on Lake Don Pedro and he kept us out of trouble! We had some awesome times and he was always smiling and laughing...let him know I am thinking of...... and praying for him.... every day."
Lovingly,
Donna Isernhagen Coleman
"I just heard and am in deep sorrow for what you are going through. Edith & I, Lorrie, Kevin & grandson Austin will constantly monitor your blog. We wish you best of luck."
Cousin Gary
"I am very encouraged to see so many family members involved in sharing Barry's infirmities.
I know God is with each of you as you and family members pray for his guidance.
If I may I would like to add my daily prayers for God's will to be done for Barry and Shirley and your whole family?
-2Cor12:9 And He said unto me, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
-2Cor13:4 For though He was crucified through weakness, yet He liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you.
With brotherly love I ask Jesus to guide each of you as you walk in Jesus' name."
Love Glenn Laplante and family
"Don and Alice Riggs are our very best friends and neighbors. We met Barry on his most recent trip to Silver City. Just like his mom and dad, Barry is one of the white hats.
In July of 2008, our youngest son, age 46, was diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma so we can appreciate what you folks are going through today. It sounds like Barry is approaching this with the same positive attitude that our son has shown.
We wish all the family the strength to get through this."
Best wishes,
Monte and Lee Bulger
"...your aunt Audrey and I were best buds in high school. Your dad was older brother to us all. He taught me to water ski on Lake Don Pedro and he kept us out of trouble! We had some awesome times and he was always smiling and laughing...let him know I am thinking of...... and praying for him.... every day."
Lovingly,
Donna Isernhagen Coleman
"I just heard and am in deep sorrow for what you are going through. Edith & I, Lorrie, Kevin & grandson Austin will constantly monitor your blog. We wish you best of luck."
Cousin Gary
"I am very encouraged to see so many family members involved in sharing Barry's infirmities.
I know God is with each of you as you and family members pray for his guidance.
If I may I would like to add my daily prayers for God's will to be done for Barry and Shirley and your whole family?
-2Cor12:9 And He said unto me, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
-2Cor13:4 For though He was crucified through weakness, yet He liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you.
With brotherly love I ask Jesus to guide each of you as you walk in Jesus' name."
Love Glenn Laplante and family
"Don and Alice Riggs are our very best friends and neighbors. We met Barry on his most recent trip to Silver City. Just like his mom and dad, Barry is one of the white hats.
In July of 2008, our youngest son, age 46, was diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma so we can appreciate what you folks are going through today. It sounds like Barry is approaching this with the same positive attitude that our son has shown.
We wish all the family the strength to get through this."
Best wishes,
Monte and Lee Bulger
Thursday, February 12, 2009
The First Day of Treatment ("Peachy Chemo"-to quote Barry)
Today was the first day of chemotherapy for Barry. Who thought that 6 hours in reclining chair could make such a difference. I guess that the IV drip played a hand as well. They pumped a lot of good stuff into Barry before switching to the chemotherapy drugs. Then they top him off with more of the good stuff. Because the chemotherapy attacks the good cells with the bad, they want to make sure that he has enough calcium, potassium, and the like.
After his treatment today he had another CT Scan of his liver, but most importantly...was craving tacos! We all met at "Camp Riggs" after Dad ate his tacos on the way home from the hospital. Everyone had a little something to eat. The Grand kids (Garrett and Dustin), enjoyed playing with Lego's on the floor, driving Dad's remote control Mini-Cooper, and jumping for joy at the thought of having a piece of Marilynn's cake.
He has regained some of the color in his face, seemed rested, and was in great spirits. Both he and Shirley were telling us about the people they saw today in the treatment center and Shirley even got a little nap in the chair next to Barry's. (I am sure glad they didn't give her any drugs!) We all really enjoyed the time spent with Dad tonight! I can't wait to have more nights like tonight. You'll notice in the picture that he is giving a thumb's up! I guess he wants to go faster.
I have updated the slide show with a couple of new pictures...I love the pony picture. I have also posted a mailing address for Barry and Shirley should you wish to send cards or letters on the right side of the site.
Thank you all again for your thoughts and prayers.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
A Really Tough Day
Today was a very tough day for everyone. The good news is that Dad starts chemotherapy tomorrow. This is about a 5 hour process and will hopefully keep the fluid from building up in his abdomen. He is scheduled to go in for 2 of the IV drugs every 3 weeks and taking one of them orally twice a day. Dr. Kang was great today and was very willing to answer all of our questions...no matter how crazy we may have sounded. Dad's "drug dealer" is Kay. (Kay will give him his treatments and make sure he is keeping up on his pills.) She seems very nice and tough as well. Just what we need!
We ask that you continue to send your thoughts and prayers as Barry begins the next chapter in this journey. We are all very tired after today and ask that you please allow a couple of days for the family to have some time together and allow Barry to get settled into his treatment schedule. His immune system will take a beating during this treatment. Please do not send plants or flowers at this time...although remember, he does love hearing from you on this site. If you are planning a visit, please make sure that you call first. Also, because of the challenges on his immune system, if you are sick are think you are getting sick, we ask that you please postpone your visit until you are feeling better.
All of your love, support, and prayers definitely helped us all through today.
God Bless You All!
Glen
We ask that you continue to send your thoughts and prayers as Barry begins the next chapter in this journey. We are all very tired after today and ask that you please allow a couple of days for the family to have some time together and allow Barry to get settled into his treatment schedule. His immune system will take a beating during this treatment. Please do not send plants or flowers at this time...although remember, he does love hearing from you on this site. If you are planning a visit, please make sure that you call first. Also, because of the challenges on his immune system, if you are sick are think you are getting sick, we ask that you please postpone your visit until you are feeling better.
All of your love, support, and prayers definitely helped us all through today.
God Bless You All!
Glen
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Oh Canada!
Barry was born in Calgary, Canada and lived there for some of his childhood. He has a lot of great family there that cover quite a large territory. Here are some emails that I have received from some of them:
"I'm your Dad's cousin Dianna...I have a couple of pics of your dad that I took when he was here for the Morrisseau reunion a couple years ago - unfortunately, I was taking the pictures so I don't have one of us together, but I did include a great one of the incredible pot luck meal that was there! In that picture, Barry is sharing a table with Aunt Joan (far left), Aunt Winnie (my mom), and Uncle Ed (married to Aunt Joan - from Campbell River BC). I think you have met everyone at the Riggs reunion (that I sadly missed).
I am forever grateful that your Dad, aunties and Grandparents make the huge effort to come to Canada to visit us as often as they do! Lord knows the last time I was in California was when I was 10 or 12!! Just remember, "family" is there for you to lean upon, to carry you and to uplift you."
XOXO Cousin Dianna from Winnipeg!
"My prayers are with you and your family. I am so sorry to hear Barry is sick. One of the messages speak about his laughter. Well, I can hear it all the way to Manitoba,Canada!
In many of the pictures he looks like his Uncle Romeo. I haven't seen your Dad much but will never forget the few times we met. Once when I went to California with Aunty Theresa and Uncle Johnny Jackson and once when he and Shirley came to Portage la Prairie and both times the visits were so much fun. So much laughter and joking. Give your Dad a hug for me and let him know I am praying for him."
Gloria Nagy Winnipeg,Manitoba,Canada
Gloria Nagy Winnipeg,Manitoba,Canada
Monday, February 9, 2009
Thank you for the Comments
I wanted to let everyone know how much Barry, Shirley, and the entire family are really enjoying all of your comments. Staci told me that Dad and Shirley leave the web page open on their computer all day long so they don't miss any postings that you might leave. Shirley said that "checking the blog" is the first thing that Dad does in the morning. He tells me how much he enjoys it every time we talk.
Tomorrow morning they will be draining his abdomen as it is getting quite full of fluid again. This is quite a time consuming project. They first drain the fluid and then keep Barry for observation for several hours. The last time he went, he was really excited about the lunch they bring him! This will be the third time it has been drained. The first time was 4.5 litres, the second time was 4.25 litres; should we start a pool for this round?
Wednesday is a big doctor's appointment! We will be meeting with the oncologist and he should have all of the test results to go over. Please keep Barry in your thoughts and prayers for Wednesday, and I will post an update as soon as I get the opportunity after the appointment Wednesday afternoon.
Thanks again to EVERYONE for their kind words and offers of support!
Tomorrow morning they will be draining his abdomen as it is getting quite full of fluid again. This is quite a time consuming project. They first drain the fluid and then keep Barry for observation for several hours. The last time he went, he was really excited about the lunch they bring him! This will be the third time it has been drained. The first time was 4.5 litres, the second time was 4.25 litres; should we start a pool for this round?
Wednesday is a big doctor's appointment! We will be meeting with the oncologist and he should have all of the test results to go over. Please keep Barry in your thoughts and prayers for Wednesday, and I will post an update as soon as I get the opportunity after the appointment Wednesday afternoon.
Thanks again to EVERYONE for their kind words and offers of support!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Looking Forward to a Good Weekend
So, Barry has been doing pretty well since he had the fluid from his abdomen drained earlier in the week. One of the issues with the metastasis in the Omentum (belly area), is that it is weeping into the lower abdomen and causes discomfort for Barry. This causes difficulty sleeping becuase he can't get comfortable, and a loss of appetite. Hopefully he can get this drained again early next week. For those who don't know, he has had this drained twice now. Each time it has been drained, they have removed over 4 litres of fluid. He keeps calling it his weight loss program.
Both he and Shirley have really enjoyed a couple of days with no doctor appointments, and I can't say that I blame them. The next appointment is scheduled for Tuesday with the Oncologist, Dr. Kang. This is a really important appointment as he will help us to understand the treatment schedule and should have all of the test results at that time.
We also found out today that Shirley is going to be able to get some time off of work to be with Barry. This is especially helpful with all of the appointments. It looks like the wheels of the truck will continue to roll as well. I know that they are both looking forward to a weekend of sleeping in and spending time with friends and family.
Thanks to everyone for checking in and for your thoughts and prayers! We hope that you take the time to enjoy the weekend with friends and family as well.
Both he and Shirley have really enjoyed a couple of days with no doctor appointments, and I can't say that I blame them. The next appointment is scheduled for Tuesday with the Oncologist, Dr. Kang. This is a really important appointment as he will help us to understand the treatment schedule and should have all of the test results at that time.
We also found out today that Shirley is going to be able to get some time off of work to be with Barry. This is especially helpful with all of the appointments. It looks like the wheels of the truck will continue to roll as well. I know that they are both looking forward to a weekend of sleeping in and spending time with friends and family.
Thanks to everyone for checking in and for your thoughts and prayers! We hope that you take the time to enjoy the weekend with friends and family as well.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Welcome!
Welcome to Barry's Journey! I must start out by saying that blogs are not my forte, but in an effort at keeping everyone updated, I will do my best to maintain and update this site...as we have a new mantra, "No Secrets!"
Even before creating this site, I have to say THANK YOU! We (the family) sincerely thank everyone for their prayers, meals, time, and overall generosity. We are already overwhelmed by the number of people who have already reached out to help.
Please take a moment to share a fun story, just browse the site, or post your positive thoughts to help everyone get through this. After all, we are celebrating life! I have never known my Dad to turn away from a challenge; and this is just another one of those hills to climb (on his motorcycle), rivers to cross (rowing because the boat won't start), and journeys to begin (like that trip to Canada with 12 people in the camper).
Thanks again for just taking a few moments to think about him!
Glen and the fam
Even before creating this site, I have to say THANK YOU! We (the family) sincerely thank everyone for their prayers, meals, time, and overall generosity. We are already overwhelmed by the number of people who have already reached out to help.
Please take a moment to share a fun story, just browse the site, or post your positive thoughts to help everyone get through this. After all, we are celebrating life! I have never known my Dad to turn away from a challenge; and this is just another one of those hills to climb (on his motorcycle), rivers to cross (rowing because the boat won't start), and journeys to begin (like that trip to Canada with 12 people in the camper).
Thanks again for just taking a few moments to think about him!
Glen and the fam
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