Well here we are. We’re on plan “H”. We’ve been through plan “A” on Kramer’s cancer journey…that was the lung surgery that was unsuccessful.
Then we went to plan “B”. That was radiation and chemo.
Then we went to plan “C” which was bone cancer.
Then plan “D” the broken neck.
We got sidetracked on our way to plan “E” with what we thought was pneumonia.
Then on Tuesday after the PET scan, we skipped right past plans “F” and “G” to plan “H”. Plan “H” for us is hospice care.
We were at the clinic bright and early for the PET scan on Tuesday morning. We weren’t supposed to see the doctor that day but I called and started pushing that we get the results the same day. I saw Kramer and saw the toll the long back and forth car trips were taking. I didn’t want him to have to go back to Lacrosse on Wednesday just to hear the results of the PET scan. So I messaged our nurse. I told her we needed this appointment to happen that day …and it did.
We were told that PET scan results take 2 1/2 hours to come back at best. The only appointment they had seemed to be in the afternoon with the main doctor. I continued to push and offer that we were willing to see either of the PA’s as we have seen and like both of them. There was a receptionist that I loved from the start of all of this and more or less begged for her to make it happen sooner. Then there was a hope that maybe we could see one of the PAs closer to lunch time. That was MUCH better. Kramer was called back into the office at 1 1/2 hours time and we didn’t have a real appointment. That’s when we heard the news….The scan was bad enough that about three doctors on the team had already seen the scan and they had all consulted. All agreed that our fight was over and and the leaving time had begun.
Kramer’s lungs are full of cancer (except the spot that was radiated). That spot was completely clear. He has cancer in his neck still. He has cancer in his hip and his femur…his colon, along with multiple other places that they didn’t even go into detail about. It’s too aggressive. It’s too much. It’s not anything they can treat so the details of where it all is is pointless.
The doctor was great. Our nurses that came in. They were great. Everyone was VERY kind. There are no other treatment possibilities for Kramer. So that is when we were moved to plan “H”…HOSPICE.
For those of you who don’t know about hospice, it’s nurses and social workers that come in to our home and make life as comfortable as possible for Kramer. Once people get to this stage everything is expedited for the patient through hospice. Keeping Kramer comfortable and finding moments of happiness is our priority.
Karl is on his way home….I need a big Karl hug. We all do. Seriously, he’s the best hugger.
We’re muddling through…all of us are sad but trying hard to find ways to smile. We don’t want Kramer’s last times with us sad and unhappy.
As far as the blog goes, I’ll be in and out. Posts might not be as regular or about crafty topics. It will likely be more of our family life as right now, that’s really all I care about. I promise at some point, I’ll be back at it again on a regular basis. Please know if I don’t post all the time…I’m okay…We’re okay.  We are watching out for each other and will make sure we’re all okay. Our kids and now the grandkids have always been a refuge for me….I’m going to need them….and so the leaving time begins.
Many, many prayers…Don’t worry about us, just take care of your precious family and enjoy every minute you can with Kramer. Just have the girls post a short update occasionally.
My prayers continue to be with Roger, you and your entire family during this time. May God bring comfort to all of you in the days ahead.
Dear Jo and family,
I am so grieved to hear of this news but not surprised. Many years ago, I wrote a poem while going through a difficult time in my life, part of it went like this…”it may not be your liking, it may not be your plan, but God is right beside you, He will help you so you can.” That has proven so true in my life and I know it will in yours too. Prayers continue for you all. Take whatever time you need and don’t worry about posting. We will be here, praying daily as you need it. Return when you are ready.
Pat B.
My prayers continue to be with Roger, you and your entire family during this time. May God bring comfort and peace to all of you in the days ahead.
Tears here along with everyone else. You are so sweet to share your family and all its love with us. My prayers will continue for your comfort and peace. God is still faithful to hold you. Drive safe.
My heart is breaking for you. Please know you are continuing to be in my heart and prayers. Do take time to laugh, joke and remember all the fun family times you have. It is Ok to laugh.
Prayers heading your way that God is with you. From experience, I can tell you the folks with HOSPICE are the best. They will become dear friends.
Continued prayers for all of you. ay you walk with Our Lord through this very trying time.
I’m so sorry to hear this. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. I have been through this journey with my mother, who has now been gone for over 18 years, and although it wasn’t easy, the hospice/palliative care she received was amazing and allowed us as a family to enjoy her last months. Some of my fondest memories are the laughs and fun we still managed to have, despite the outcome.
My prayers are with you. My husband was in Hospice a couple years ago for dementia. I was determined to keep him home. Hospice and some private caregivers, made it possible. At the time, the Hospice doctor made house calls about once a month. She was a special person. Would examine him and then would sit me down and talk to me to make sure all was well with me. That helped me get thru a tough time.
My thoughts are with you and may God give you the strength to get thru this.
I’m so sorry to hear this. May Kramer find peace and comfort during this time. May God be with you during this journey. Kramer Strong!
Oh no! I am so sorry to hear this. We just got similar news with my uncle. I am copying a link here, which I found fascinating and at this point, there is nothing to lose. I am so happy he has gotten lots of pictures with those new grandbabies. I wish my folks would be more photogenic.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.koco.com/amp/article/edmond-man-claims-cheap-drug-for-dogs-cured-his-cancer/27276538
So sorry to hear your news. Prayers for your family. Hospice nurses are wonderful. We have been blessed to have had their help in our family. We now have a hospice nurse in our family too. They are a special breed.
Hugs and love to you and your entire family. And prayers.
Oh no, Jo. I am SO sorry. Sending virtual hugs to all and hope Kramer will be comfortable during this time. Prayers for all as you journey on a road you wouldn’t choose.
Jo-
You have an amazing family and I know they will be your strength as you walk this road together. But I also know God is with you and your family and he will give you the peace and strength you need to make it through each day, each minute. Know that we are all praying for your whole family and we are with you in this journey. K-
Our time here on earth is but a stepping stone to our eternal life. I will continue to offer prayers for the Kramer family as they join together to make Kramer’s life as comfortable and meaningful as possible. Hospice workers are the best!! They become extended members of your family. Enjoy the time you have together, and take care of yourself.
Hospice is wonderful. Roger, you, and your family are in my prayers. Cyber hugs to you all.
Gentle hugs to each of you and continued prayers. So many of us have already walked this road with family. It’s difficult to walk this path, but know you are never alone and our prayers are always with you. Take one day at a time or one hour at time and share memories with each other of the good times. That’s what has kept your family Kramer Strong.
Much love, gentle hugs and many prayers for peace for you all. Enjoy every moment and especially those Karl hugs.
I’m so sorry Kramer family! My thoughts & prayers are with you through this journey!
Oh how I hate to hear this. You and your family will continue to have my prayers. Thank God for Hospice. They will be a great source of comfort for both of you.
Sending prayers!!
Jo, Roger & Family,
I can’t imagine what you are going through right now but my prayers are that God will bring you strength, comfort & contentment as only He can. Savor every day! together! Many thoughts & prayers along with cyber hugs coming your way.
So sorry! Will be praying and have been thinking about you and your family this past month when I’ve been basically out off the grid of the internet.
I just don’t know what to say. I’m so sorry it’s turned out this way for Kramer & your family. I hope his hospice workers are as wonderful as the ones my brother-in-law had. They did everything they could for him and the whole family. Again, I wish it could have turned out better for all of you.
Leaving time is hard! Praying for you all.
Dear Kramer Family,
May God bring peace and comfort to you, as you hold tight and love each other well. With love and our prayers.
-Jean
I am so sorry to hear this news. Of course, we all hoped the news would be different. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. May you be surrounded with the love of your children during these precious days. If you need anything, let us know. We are here for you.
I’m so sorry Jo
Sending prayers and air hugs to the entire Kramer Family.
Hugs & prayers.
I’ve never commented before, but I love your blog. I’m praying for your family. Hugs from the U.K. Gill xxx
I so respect the love, strength and closeness of your family. This is Kramer’s legacy (and yours, Jo!) … that he can feel peaceful about leaving you with. Enjoy all the moments given to your family. Peace and love to you all.
Praying for your family in this difficult journey you are on. Hoping you feel the strength of all the thousands of people praying for you now.
Continued prayers for all of you, as you hold each other up and find the joys in the little things and bigger things of family and grandchildren. There are many supporting you.
Continued prayers for all of your family members and friends. Praying for strength, peace and comfort for each of you. Prayers, hugs and love.
Love, prayers and hugs to you Jo and Roger and your entire family. What a blessing your family is to you both. You both have created together a warm and loving home for your family and friends and have much to be proud of. Cherish this time together. You have given so much to those of us who are touched by your blog. Please call on us for whatever you need.
Roger, Jo, and family, Not the news we wanted to hear. Even tho we have never met, my heart aches for you and your family. I will continue to prayer for God’s peace, comfort, and encouragement during this time.
I am so so sorry. My prayers are that God will hold each of you close during the long goodbye and you will find some peace and joy among the sadness.
So sorry to hear your news. Don’t worry at all about the blog . Family is what is important right now. Make as many memories as you can. Hospice is wonderful and extremely helpful. Thinking about you all at this time. Kramer family strong!
Oh, yes, you need a Karl hug. Prayers to you and your family, Jo.
I have no words that can express how sorry I am to read this news nor any that I feel would give you any comfort other than “I am praying for you all to draw on your faith and family’s strength based on love for one another.”
There are no words, just prayers for your whole family.
Oh Jo and family. The pain of loosing one so loved is immense, all consuming and painful. I know such pain. Enjoy every moment. Laugh. Laugh. Laugh and Laugh some more. Embrace Roger with your love, as I am sure you are. Your future will be hard and unknown. Yet you will get through this. You will feel Roger’s love and presence. Roger, know that your family is loved. Not just the immediate love, but from those near and far. Be comfortable. Please! It is what you need and what your family wants. Laugh. Love. Enjoy. You have been an amazing provider, lover, father and friend. One day we will all join hands….I know you! You were the farmer….you were the friend….you were the father and you were known through Jo’s Country Junction. I look forward to that day~
Jo, Kramer, kids and grands… I am so sorry your family is going on this journey. You are all so lucky to have each other. Such a warm, caring family, always there for each other.. SO LUCKY… I have sent prayers for love and strength. Spend your time with each other and don’t worry about the blog, we’ll all be here when and if you can make it back. Blessings to you all.
The blessing of hospice is that Kramer’s comfort will be the first and foremost priority. Your family will be able to have good days and create good memories during this time. Don’t worry about the blog, we’ll all be here. Please let your virtual friends know if there’s anything we can do. Peace be with you.
I’m so sorry this has turned out this way for you. I too got this need about my hubby on my birthday in March. His heart was done and he only had a short time left. Hospice is such a wonderful organization. They were here when we needed what they could offer and what we needed. He passed much sooner than anyone expected on May 20th so I’m on the other side alone. I have to tell you as you were dealing with Kramer’s issues I was listening and reading every word you wrote. It helped John and I figure out what he wanted and how he wanted to die. He came home made possible with hospice and he slipped away in no pain. He made a his arrangements and he did it his way which is what I wished for him. He got to see his kids and family No more
drs or hospitals just family time and our time
I couldn’t have asked for a better way for him
I have to thank you for a your frank conversations about Kramer and your lives
It made things easier for me
Take care and god bless you all
Hugs
May you feel God’s hugs…… as you continue this journey…… love and hugs for all.
Your post always arrives around 6pm and tonight it was late and I wondered what was up. When you mentioned plan H, my first thoughts were “hospice”. I am so, so sorry to hear this diagnosis; my prayers will be with all of you.
I’m so sorry to hear this news. I have been following your journey and I’m sending prayers for you Jo and your entire family.
Oh no, I’m so sorry to hear this news! I hope it helps that so many people care and wish you all strength during this difficult time. Hugs to all the Kramers {{hugs}}.
I am so sorry, I don’t know what to say. Jo, your family is so close and loving, you have each other. Sending love and many, many prayers for Kramer and each and every family member. You have so many neighbors and people that care, others to rely on during this time, use that strength to get through. Blessings.
I am so sorry to hear this news. I will keep you in my prayers. I am so glad you have a warm, loving, and strong family.
I am so saddened, sending you prayers love and hugs. May God help you and your family through this sad time. Try and smile when you can but let K know you are sad and cry together and then remember all the good times . Love hugs and blessings Sandra
I wish you and your family much love and peace as you cherish the time that you have together until you all meet again.
So, so sorry. My heart breaks for the whole family.
May God’s grace keep him pain free and the comfort of his family keep his heart warm with love.
Jo, I did not expect this message but my heart sank at what you are facing. One positive thing (if that is even possible in this time of your lives), is that hospice has been a godsend for anyone I have known who has had to face this time in their lives. It is a wonderful support system for all of you and they know what they are doing, how to do it and are true angels. I support our local hospice because I know a few who have had to use it and ours has a special program for teenagers who have lost a loved one. I make quilts for the kids in the program and they always add a pocket to the quilt made from a piece of clothing of their loved one that has left this world. The kids learn how to wrap up in the quilts when they are overwhelmed with their loss and while it doesn’t change anything, it gives them a warm hug and calmness. Am sure hospice will be your strength and please lean on them when you need time, space or comfort. Your family is so strong but leaning on each other when you need it is going to be your gift to each other. Hugs to all of you and I really pray that Kramer will be in minimal pain and enjoy having his family there to keep him entertained and loved.
My thoughts are with you and your family. HUGS from Massachusetts!
That’s bad news to have to hear. No matter when or who it’s happening to. I’m so sorry it’s going this way. Will continue to pray for all of you in this time of the battle. My best to everyone in your family. You show what family really means. God be close with each of you during this time.
Love, hugs, and everlasting happy memories for all of you during this time. When I was taking care of my dad (he also had lung cancer), some of my best memories were made during this time. Take all the love that the people around you give you and wrap yourself in it as you need to. Hugs, Vicki
Prayers for the Kramer Klan. May God hold you in his arms and make this journey one that you will cherish forever. Prayers that Roger will we comfortable and pain free. Love to all.
My prayers and are with you and your dear family.
I’m so sorry to hear about Kramer. I’m wishing you happy times with your family and that this journey can be as painless as possible.
Hugs
Jo, Kramer and family, I am so sorry to hear this news. Although we have never met I feel as if you are a part of my family. I will continue to pray for a miracle and also peace and comfort for you all.
Having lost my husband to lung cancer, my heart aches for you all. May God’s love sustain your family during this very difficult time.
Even though I read your blog religiously, Jo, I was not prepared for the news you shared. Tears flowed this morning as I was reading it. Like so many, I feel like you are family since you share so freely all the Kramer happenings. I will continue to offer prayers and blessings for Roger and the whole Kramer family as you continue on the journey.
Oh No my heart is so sad for you, Kramer, your kids all those beautiful grandkids. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Dear Kramer and Kramer, You have included us all in your journey, and I thank you..May His peace be with you all as the journey continues. Our hearts are tender toward you all….
I am so sad this has come so soon. The in home hospice will now allow you all to be together during this leaving time. My heart goes out to you and your entire family. I know all the love coming from your blog family as well as your community will be a continuing comfort. Thank you for sharing with us and allowing us to share our love back to all of you.
I am so so sorry that you received this news. I know it is news nobody wants to hear about a loved one. The one positive is that you have been given the gift of a little time to say all the things that you need to say to each other. You have an amazing family that will stand by your side through all of this. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers
Sending prayers for courage and strength. Plan H also stands for holding onto each other in the days ahead. Love endures all things.
Praying for the entire Kramer family as you go through this valley together. Your extended family through your blog will be supporting you all in every way we can…I hope you can feel the love and prayers from us around the world. This is the time to be selfish with your time and energy…focus on each other, we’ll be here whenever you can return.
So sorry to hear this sad news. I will continue to pray for Gods peace and love to surround you constantly. Sending much love to you all from the Uk. Sue
As a survivor of cancer I so so feel for you and your family go be with hubby and family making memories as we will all still be here when you come back to us sending love from the uk xxx
OH JO…. I knew this was coming, as a nurse, I knew….. But it makes me sad anyway. Hospice is wonderful We used it for my mom, and my FIL when they passed. Do what you have to do, daily posts are not necessary, we’re here praying for you all regardless.
Prayers for you all in is hard time.
So sorry Jo. Continued prayers and hugs for your amazing family.
Oh Jo…my heart goes out to all of you. You have been an will continue to be in my prayers. Hugs to you all.
I’m so sorry to hear the news. You have a wonderful loving family, I’m still praying for all. God Bless!
I am so sorry to hear that is it now hospice time. You and your family will continue to be in my prayers. Updates are nice, but you, Kramer and the family come first. We will all still be here whenever you are able to post.
Hugs and prayers.
Hugs and peace to your family. Enjoy your time together. Take care of yourself and your family.
I am so sorry to hear this sad news about Kramer. I will be saying lots of prayers for your family during this tough time. Make every moment count. Big hugs.
Losing a dear loved one is never easy, and it’s not supposed to be. But you are not alone, you have a wonderful family that personifies love, you have a blog family that is praying and will be there for you anytime you reach out, and you are a huge part of your community family. (Just look at the love they poured into your house and garden). I’m not sure why God needs Kramer now but he does, and Kramer will be pain free forever when he is sitting at the right hand of Jesus. Until then, please know that your blog family loves you and is on this journey with you as much as we can be through prayers, love and hugs. You and Kramer will always have the comfort and memory of being loved and in love forever.
Blessings to you all,
Nancy
So, so sorry Jo! You’re family has been in my prayers since the beginning and they will continue to be. There is no words to express how sad I am for you all.
I am SO very sorry.
God Bless all the Kramers, such a strong family filled with love, devotion and strength. I will continue to keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
I was expecting to read this news but not quite this soon. My mother-in-law received hospice care, and I can’t say enough about it. It was such a help. I have silently followed your blog for some time now. Don’t worry about it or your readers. Take care of yourself and Roger! I have loved hearing about your strong family, and am so thankful that you have their love and support. And lean on the Lord during this hard time in your life. In all the hard times in my life, the Lord has been there to love and comfort me. My own father died when I was 30. The Lord kept showing me things to be thankful for even as I mourned. I was so busy thanking God for the good things, that it helped me get past the hard things. And now at 76 the Lord is still doing it.
Oh Jo! I am so sorry for you and your family. I will continue to pray for you all. God bless.
Jo and family, I’m so sorry to learn of these latest developments. You know that God is still in control. I know that he can heal Kramer. That may or may not be His plan, but that is what I’m going to ask Him to do.
So sorry to hear this. Sending you and your family lots of love, and prayers for strength
Your family is loved by so many. I’ve followed your blog for a few years now and I never tire of hearing the goings on of your family. You have a wonderfully close-knit family.
Hospice is a two-edged sword, knowing it is the end and the wonderful care that they take.
Know that there are thousands of us sending lots of love and prayers to you and your family.
Although I don’t know you, I have been incredibly moved by how you all as a family have lived this experience and continued to celebrate life and love. My heart aches for you. Sending long distance hugs and prayers from Australia.
Jo, I just wanted to give you cyber hugs and love, I have been through this with my husband and it is a hard road. But you are surrounded by so much love and support that I know you will work through it and the focus now is to keep Kramer comfortable and happy.
So sorry to read this. Will continue to pray for you and your family. God Bless.
Gloria G here.
As you all hold Kramer in your hands & hearts you can count on all the comfort and peace being mutual. The family closeness and faith plus all the support and encouragement from your friends, family, & bloggers is so special. When the circle of life puts way too many of us in this familiar situation it’s the bump in the road we get through. Live, love, laugh, cry, sing?, rest, hold a hand, elbow, cheek as you Drive Safe. Hugs & prayers
I am in shock over your news. I’m so sorry. I will keep all of you in my prayers. Take care of yourselves as best you can.
Jo & family,
I am so sorry that you all have to go through this. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.