MRI Results and Other Stuff
I'm writing this entry from Bryce's hospital room during some point in the middle of some night. I don't know what day it is, but I'm pretty sure I heard it was October (Halloween happens to be my favorite day, so I'm pumped)! Amazing--life can charge ahead yet remain frozen at the same time. As for charging ahead, that would be Dani. She is doing the "stinkbug" crawl, where she sticks her cute little booty in the air and wiggles forward to reach her destination, which is usually something nasty that shouldn't be eaten. I must remember to remove all foreign particles from our floors. She is cute, demanding, starting to have separation anxiety, and loves to eat. Nine months--I don't remember months six through nine very well.
Bryce hasn't been eating because it's too exhausting, so he has lost all of his energy. He doesn't get out of bed much because it's too strenuous, so his muscles have wasted away. What a fun cycle. He has lost about 70 lbs since July. Be thankful for your muffin top--at least you can eat (how many times do I have to say that until I believe it?! Yeah, right!)! The docs have tossed around the idea of a feeding tube, but it sounded annoying and "last stage-ish", so we have avoided it. A few days ago, Dad and I let Bryce know how critical it was that he get adequate calories, and that a feeding tube was crucial--especially since Bryce couldn't get out of bed to go to his MRI appointment. We rescheduled the MRI and ordered the feeding tube for Friday (yesterday). I'm not sure Bryce was convinced he needed the tube until he got up to walk to the bathroom (located three feet from the foot of the bed) the other night. Matt and I were working on my computers in the kitchen (seriously, what a stud--and Stacey is a bigger stud for allowing him to be MIA as he selflessly maintains this site and my computers--don't edit this out, Matt!) when we heard a loud moan and THUD come from upstairs. We ran up to find Bryce passed out on the floor. I called Nic (my brother-in-law) to come help us, and the guys were able to lift Bryce to the bed. I ran through some tests and questions with Bryce to assess his mental status, and I felt confident that he fell because he was weak and malnourished, and not due to his brain tumors. The guys hung out with in our bedroom and chatted with Bryce until after midnight to make sure things were stable. Thanks, guys!! The same crew, along with Bryce's family,came over the next morning to help get Bryce out of the house and to the hospital for the scan and tube. They brought the wheelchair upstairs to the bed, lifted Bryce into the chair, and we all carried him down the stairs and to the car. Bedside service!
Bryce feels humiliated that he can't do these simple things right now, and it makes me feel guilty for taking my own energy and mobility for granted. He would do anything to be able to mow the lawn, go for a run, fix the stairs, reach things for me (I always ask him if I can borrow his "tall" and have him reach things), run errands, and change Dani's diapers. These are all things nobody really wants to do, but when you're not physically able...you get my point. Will this inspire/guilt me into exercising more and running more errands? Ummmmm....
We arrived at the hospital and played the waiting game. His MRI was first. The results? NO GROWTH!! The six brain tumors have just chilled out and not developed any new buddies during the past month, which none of us were expecting. Stable tumors are good news in my book right now! Dr. Isotope will cherry-pick those tumors next week using radiation surgery. Had the tumors grown or multiplied, brain surgery wouldn't have been a viable option. Woohoo! The Nexavar/Temodar chemotherapy treatment must be doing something. Bryce's blood was drawn (which took a small army, lots of needle sticks, and a brave Bryce--his $%#!! PICC lines never stay open), which revealed his hemoglobin was five (that's bad). Dr. Isotope said we could admit Bryce for a blood transfusion after the feeding tube placement and new PICC line insertion. The feeding tube placement was really cool--the staff let me come into the procedure room and watch. Poor Bryce was gagging and wretching as the tube was going up his nose and down the back of this throat, and the doc couldn't get it to thread past the stomach into the small intestine. He kept saying, "Bryce, think of your favorite food." The line kept coiling around in his stomach as Bryce gagged. The doc stopped and said, "Seriously, Bryce--what's your favorite food?" Bryce answered, "Ice cream",and suddenly *BLOOP* his duodenum popped open and the tube shot into his intestine. Ahhh, the power of suggestion. He does like his ice cream... Next came the PICC line, the admission to the oncology ward, the long speech regarding feeding tubes, and finally the blood was hung at night. The last bag just finished, and it's now morning. Thanks to Mom for keeping Dani. Thanks to Roger, Nate and Holly, who spent the majority of their day or night here with us. Especially thanks to Holly for bringing nachos and the Spongebob Operation game, and thanks to the nurse who tracked down a screwdriver so Holly and I could get the batteries installed for optimum noise and electrocution. We're awesome surgeons!
We'll go home today when Bryce feels strong enough to get out of bed. I can't wait to see Dani (the grandmas have had her for several nights) and to feed her and play with her! We're trying to figure out how to keep Dani from pulling the feeding tube out--it won't be easy. The good MRI news, the new blood, and new calories will hopefully get Bryce back on his feet and in fighting spirits once again. We were watching CSI:Miami the other night (Horatio cares), where a guy was trapped in a burning car. Bryce said, "I feel like that guy." Yep. That sucks.
On a really happy note, Jessi sent us our pictures! She made a beautiful album with 40 of our favorite photos, gave us a CD (in a satin-lined box) of all the photos, and created three purse-size photo albums for us and our parents. She sent a hand-made card with our family photo on the front, with a note inside thanking us for the opportunity to do this. She thanked us!?! What a classy, selfless, remarkable person! Remember, she didn't know us when she did the photo shoot, and she wouldn't accept any payment. People are GOOD. Check out our photo shoot at www.jessistringham.com/brown, and help us repay Jessi by booking her for your own photo shoot! Thanks, Jessi (and Julie and Topher Steadman)!!! Another happy note will occur next week when my dear friend Reed will fly to SLC and spend an evening shooting video and interviewing Bryce. Reed has offered to create a beautiful video tribute for us, containing advice to Dani from her daddy, photos, and other surprises. I can't wait to see him!!
Thanks for commenting--Bryce truly loves hearing them!! Keep it up!
48 Comments So Far!
Hey Bryce and Tammy,
Wow! You've kept those tumors down! What an accomplishment!! This is exciting news! We'll be praying that the "cherry picking operation" on the brain tumors is successful. Tell us when the next time is that we can donate more blood for you and let's have another blood drive! (How long do you have to wait to give blood again?)
Thank heaven for feeding tubes! Rebecca had one for two weeks as a baby. It kept her going. Just think how good the food (cheetos) will taste when you have more energy! :)
One day at a time. One night at a time. One feeding tube at a time. One blood transfusion at a time. One oxygen tank at a time. One post at a time. One breath at a time. One hug at a time. One step at a time. One prayer at a time. It all adds up to ONE MIRACLE AT A TIME. And Bryce, YOU are that miracle!
Get your sleep. Let your body do its work. We're all counting on you to just do ONE thing at time. You are the tortoise in this race and you are going to win because you are slow and steady! And the hare (cancer) is going to wonder why you made it!
Love,
Barbara
Hi Guys,
Grandma and Grandpa Nic and Tammy's great-aunt Kathleen just left our house in Baker. They missed not being able to see you yesterday. We think about you a lot and love reading your journal. I am always amazed when I think about the incredible influence you both are having on people throughout the world. Tammy, you have written great advice for everyone to read and hear. Thank you for reminding all of us that life is too short to be critical, unforgiving, etc. Bryce, we've only been around you a few times, but our kids talk about what a funny and nice guy you are. We pray for you daily, many times! We love you both and can't wait to meet Dani someday!
Love,
Karen and Greg Baxter
Bryce!
You are a fighter, man. Remember the 300, and keep fighting! YOU ARE WINNING, and we can't wait 'til you are well enough to come outside and play with the dog. You are my hero as YOU ARE BEATING THE ODDS...fight, fight, fight! You are stronger than you think (and I believe you and Tammy know you are a tough guy). Keep up the fight. You, Tammy and Danika are in my, and my parents', thoughts and prayers.
And Tammy...anything you need, at any time, I'm right next door. Don't hesitate to ring the bell, okay!?
Your neighbors,
Michelle & K9 Rolf
Hey Bryce and Tammy,
So glad to hear the good news about the MRI results. I talked with your dad today at work and he updated me along with what I just read. I knew I liked Bryce for a reason and the comment about ice cream just confirmed it to me. Bryce you are awesome! We love you and keep praying for you daily. Tammy I admire you more than you know. I WILL be over with the ice cream soon. LOVE YA!
Roni
Hi there to our favorites!!
Well I am doing the celebration dance here at the computer! Yea-I am so excited about the great MRI results. Good job on "swallowing" the feeding tube Bryce- you are so tough! The army's prayers are being heard and answered. I am also glad to hear that you'll be with Dr. I next week, maybe I'll see you there, if not you'll for sure be in my thoughts and prayers. Thanks for the sweet reminders Tammy of what is really important in this life. I have to say when I started my journey in Radiation Therapy 16 years ago my life changed, really I have grown to become someone who is much better than before it all began. It is through examples of family, patients, friends, doctors, caregivers that I have come to know what is really important in life. It is truly the little things, the precious moments that you think don't matter. It is the hugs, kisses, and tears shed with a stranger or a loved one. I am changed because of the examples I see of how to fight and endure to the end, whatever that end may bring. The Lord is on our side, and knows that we can ony make it through life with the help of one another. That is truly how he loves us, through others. Thanks for sharing your lives with us. The experiences you are facing so valiantly, lessons you are learning, are helping someone else right now and will have an eternal effect on many, many lives. Thanks for being so brave and again for your willingness to share. I loved the photo shoot, and the trip down the engagement/wedding lane! You are a beautiful family and the glow you have radiates even through pictures! Keep the faith and we will have you close in our hearts, and prayers.
love-kristin
Tammy and Bryce,
You continue to AMAZE and AMUSE us! A sense of humor is so important for coping. Bryce, way to go...keeping those tumors at bay! Hope this "bypass of the taste buds" helps you gain strength for your continued brave battle. You are an inspiration!
Tams, your words of wisdom are priceless gems to live by, giving us pause to re-evaluate our service to our fellowmen and vow to do better! Thanks for making a difference. We pray for health and happiness for both of you! Hugs for the trio...
We Love You! Aunt Shawnee and Uncle Dave
PS. For great belly laughs, check out the comedy of Brian Regan... tooooo funny!
Bryce,
I am so excited right now to hear how well the MRI went. I pray that the feeding tube brings back some strength for you. It's so wonderful that you're still here with us and beating the odds. Keep up your fight and be that 1% Mike and I know that you can do it!!
Teri
Bryce and Tammy,
I am so excited that the tumors are stable YAY!!! The feeding tube will help alot. You will start seeing result really soon. I told Maliyah that Bryce just got a feeding tube. She wants to know what color it is? She just got out of the hospital again but is doing better. We keep thinking she needs a feeding tube again to, but I can't bring myself it do it. I have a little saying that I use all the time when I am really struggling with life it go like this "Happiness is not having what you want it wanting what you have". Its being greatful for each and everyday even when you don't think that you can do it any longer. Bryce and Tammy you are an inspiration and I know that you never wanted to inspire people like this, but you are teaching me everyday that no matter what I can do my trials. I think of you often and pray often that Bryce will make it for as long as he wants by killing the cancer. I truly have faith that he can make it and want nothing more for you all. I know that you love to read jokes but I have to tell you I have none to tell. I just wanted you to know that I think and Pray for you often. The pictures are beautiful!!!
Love,
Erin
Thanks for posting such good news today! I know you are being sustained by all the faith and prayers coming your way (did you know there have been scientific studies which have statistically proved the healing power of prayer - of course we know what the power is!) You certainly are in all mine. Bryce, with all you have been through, I'm not surprised you made it through the awful tube insertion. I empathize with you (I remember too well the Eg tube I had to have last year with a bowel obstruction). I did find one thing that saved me from going nuts with swallowing around the tube and having my throat so sore - chewing gum. I would be glad to bring you some if you think you could stand to chew it without having it tire you or make you nauseated. You are both my inspiration! I know you can beat this wicked thing! Miracles happen! Keep believing. Sending lots of love your way,
Ann LeVitre (and Richard, who gets me online)
Wow! I am so glad that you had some good news!! It seems silly, but my husband and I just came back from a Halloween party tonight. We dressed up like Superman and Supergirl (we are real cheeseballs...but it is fun). I came home to check to see how you and Bryce were doing, and it occurs to me that YOU are SUPERGIRL and Bryce is SUPERMAN!! You both are fighting the good fight and have this amazing strength. I wish for you both those moments that you can enjoy being in each others presence, surrounded by this amazing force field of love and prayers where no harm can come to either one of you.
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you..
Kelli
Stroudsburg, PA
Bryce and Tammy,
Glad to here the good news about the tumors not growing! We are praying that good news will keep coming.
Bryce, just wanted to let you know that you have been an example to me -- your faith, reaching out to those who visit you and keeping an upbeat attitude. You have helped motivate me to approach life with faith, to not get too focused on myself and my own problems, and to focus on what really matters.
Thanks for opening up your lives through this whole ordeal. I really believe that you have touched a lot lives by letting everybody participate in what you have been going through.
I admire you guys a lot! Just know that we are praying for you...
Paul Anderton
Dear Bryce,
Don't give up. The tide is turning. We love you!
Bryce and Tammy,
Wonderful news! I'm so glad you got the feeding tube to help you regain your strength. Way to swallow! That is fantastic news on the tumors. Great Progress! Thank you for the good news to start my Sunday. (My wrist band is in place and I wear it proudly for everyone to ask me about it.)
We had an indoor garage sale yesterday and friday night in our old home on the property. Maddi is raising money to go to New York next summer and this was one of her big chances to get ahead. Well, we learned that not alot of people want to come out on a snowy day with 40 mile an hour winds to an indoor garage sale. Plus most of Wyoming is out hunting. hehe. It has been sooooo cold up here and the wind factor is making it unbearable. I can only go out for short periods of time to see the new little animals we added to our zoo. I worry about them 24/7 because I'm afraid they are going to freeze. The mini horses have really thick hair right now and I'm reading that it's going to get thicker but the little goats look so cold. We are going to try to build them a nice shelter this coming week, weather providing. They are every bit as cute as I had thought they would be. I just wish we had warmer weather to enjoy them. I guess we got them at a bad time but I had to jump at the chance. Next year they will feel my love! We let our granddaughters name the mini baby horse and the small pygmy goat. My granddaughters are 2 and 5. So the names are "Flower" for the little white goat and "Starburst" for the mini baby horsey. So cute!! The mommy mini was already named "Buttons" and the Boy goat's name is "Moe".
Doorway, you keep up the good fight and keep getting stronger with each day. You can only do what you can do right now. It will get better. Know that our prayers are with you constantly and how much we care about you and your family. Thank you for the update. I hope you have a wonderful Sabbath.
Love,
Stepstool
Bryce and Tammy,
My heart is really bursting with love for you this morning. I feel like the Grinch--I'm sure it's grown at LEAST 3 sizes! Every opportunity for HOPE...I am just so happy and greatful for your good news.
That's really all I wanted to say in this post...just how much my heart is overflowing with love and warmth for you and yours.
Take good care,
Aunt Melanie
Bryce and Tammy,
We are so happy to hear that the tumors have stopped growing. What a blessing that is. We know God has been helping you so much.
Today I taught a lesson to the priests in the ward. I used for my text Elder Wirthlin's talk from the most recent conference. He spoke on the power of Love and Charity. He talked about how the measure of love we have is the measure of the greatness of our souls. You two are truly GREAT. Thank you for the love and gratitude you continue to show during such a difficult time. We appreciate your endurance and faith.
Keep up the good fight!
Nathan and Suzie
Bryce & Tammy -
I've been away from my computer for a few days and couldn't wait to get home and check in on you.
Praise the Lord for the stability of the tumors! That will allow for the surgery, which will be a turning point for Bryce, right?!
You are both very amazing, and Dani is so blessed to have you for her parents.
Keep the faith, keep fighting, and DEFINITELY keep finding the humor in the small things ~ sometimes it's the only thing to keep your sanity for another day...
Sending huge prayers and hugs your way,
Becky from MN, wife of melanoma angel Brad 5-12-07
Hi Bryce and Tammy,
You don't know me (I'm Nikki Stephens' sister-in-law), but I have been enthralled with reading your blog. You guys are so amazing and inspiring! I think about you a lot and hope for the best for your little family.
I was reading the Sunday paper this evening and came across an advertisement. Maybe you have already heard about it, but I thought I'd pass the information along anyway. There's a clinical research study for people with Stage 3 or Stage 4 melanoma.... You can go to www.aimmstudy.com or call 877-343-6389 for more information. Just thought I'd pass it along.
Please know you are in our prayers. Your sweet family is so inspiring.
HOORAY! We have been hoping & praying for good MRI results. We will keep it up for the radiation surgery. It amazes us how you two can keep going in such a positive way. I know of few people that can fight a battle such as this without bitterness. I am ashamed to say that I don't think I could. Your strength is contagious!! Keep going. You are always in our thoughts and prayers!
Tammy & Bryce,
I was so glad to read the good news. Something must be working--how wonderful.
I'm waiting for some test results myself. I had a PET/CT done last week. An awful thing occurred though...I was stuck in the tube, not able to move and I had the theme song to the Golden Girls stuck in my head for the whole 45 minutes. I didn't even know all of the words, but that didn't stop me.
Bryce, the feeding tube is a necessary evil. But it is also a temporary one. I had one surgically implanted in May and had a high protein formula that I had pumped through at night. It really saved me during the chemo and radiation. The best part was that it came out in August. I'm sure yours will too when it has served its purpose. (On a side note: NG tubes can come out really easily. I speak this from my experience and my sister Jessica's experience. Don't you dare get down on yourself if it happens. Just get it replaced. )
Tammy, I thought of you last night. I was watching an old Ab Fab on BBC America before I went to bed. The show has still got it! Ah the good old days...
--Aimee
Bryce,
you are so brave and you are such a fighter, don't let anyone or anything make you think any different. So many people admire you in so many ways. You are a hero.. I am so blessed to know you. Tammy, you are an amazing women, thank you again for keeping everyone updated..
Praying for you always.
P.S. Bryce, I left Mrs. Fields. I am now at Cafe Rio. ltripp@caferio.com
You are truely remarkable. I found your website through Jessi Stringhams website. Your family is beautiful. Best of Luck. I am praying for you!!!
Amanda
Bryce and Tammy
HOORAY FOR GOOD RESULTS! We were so excited to hear that the tumors are stopping in their tracks! That's the way to take them down Bryce! You are so much stronger then any of those dumb ole tumors, now you just need to prove it to them! We are praying so hard for you, and have our families praying as well. Keep your spirits high, I'm sure it may seem impossible to do so at times. Just remember what you are both fighting for. The Lord is with you, and has guided you to these doctors and treatments. Continue to put your faith in the Lord and in all that he has given to you. You can do this!!! No question about it!!!
Brittani Martin
Bryce and Tammy,
Bryce, I don't know if you will remember me or not - Nancy Briscoe @ Master-Bilt in New Albany, MS. We have spoken on the phone several times down through the years. Steve Lambert at Redditt Sales told us about you.
I just wanted to let you know that we are praying for you and your family.
Tammy, please keep the updates and pictures coming. You are truly blessed with such a sweet family.
Good luck and God Bless You.
Nancy
WOW!!! CAN I GET AN AMEN!!!!!
GOD IS GOOOOOOD!!!!
Tammy you know when you sent that text I just had to call...sorry... I just had tears jumping out of my eyes!!! We had just talked the night before and man oh man was it good to hear your voice!! I sure miss those late night talks. Bryce I felt like I was right there with you my friend!! Hearing your voice made me cry I stood there on my porch in the pouring down rain with my hand in the air saying "Praise God Praise God". When I hung up my neighbor, who happens to be my Landlord who had witnessed me praying with Tammy the very first day Tammy and I had spoke on the phone again witnessed me crying and shouting "Praise God" while I was on the phone with you. When I got off the phone I turned around will all these tears running down my face and I went to get my boys and I looked at her and she was holding her almost 9 months old baby girl (Tori) and she said to me "I take it that was good news" and I said yes and once again you were a witness and it was for the same people. She had tears in her eyes. She said there is just something about you Christine and I can't figure it out but there is something there where you make ME want to pray. I said to her that's a good thing. and I went in the house with my guys to give them gigantic hugs!!!
You keep up the good work My friend Bryce Brown!!!! Remember we are in this fight together!!!
Love you friend,
Christine Uporsky
Hi Tammy & Bryce (and Dani too!!),
A friend from high school sent me the link to your amazing blog last week and I have been pouring over it since. I went through Oak Hills, Millcreek and BHS with Bryce(same year). Although we didn't have the same circle of friends, I still remember you! Great sense of humor, pensive, caring - and you always struck me as the kind of guy who loved and would be loved by children! Dani is a lucky little lady!
I am in awe of your struggles and so impressed by the fighting spirit in both of you. Things are looking up! Tammy, what a wonderful blog. And the photos.... the soon-to-be video... so much good stuff :) And you are an amazing writer - keep that up and you'll soon be submitting to publishing companies!
Much love and many hugs to your family! We are thinking of you,
~Brook Garoutte & family
Hi precious Brown family,
I love to hear the Good Stuff!! It makes me think of an old song, "Blue skys, nothing but blue skys from now on." Told you it was old. But that's what I'm wishing and hoping and praying for you. That old song really has a lot to say. I just want your lives filled with all that is good, abundantly good,(?) well, yes, just good whatever! I know I'm a Pollyanna, but man does it ever feel good to me to visualize those blue skys with orange kites, and seeing Dani smiling and clapping her hands and hearing her say, "Higher daddy, make them go higher." Miracles are happening for you all the time! And it couldn't happen to a more deserving family than you. You've created so much good in this crazy world and is it ever needed! You are in my heart, my thoughts and my prayers constantly. Love you - Thoughts become things, choose the good ones!
YOU are a MIRACLE. AMAZING. Keep up the miraculous fight, Bryce and Tammy.
love,
brenda
Hello Brown Family- I am so glad to see the miracles working at your house. I hope Bryce able to get some calories in him. It sounds like ice cream is the trick so just keep saying that over and over to him.
I was sad to read that Bryce feels like a worthless lump( or something like that) Has he no idea the impact he has had on everyone who knows him or has even heard of him. I hug my husband and my kids a little tighter every day! I enjoy my family,even when I am scrubbing crayons off the wall. I pray for you every night and I also thank Heavenly Father for all of my blessing. Blessing I might not have thought so important if it was not for Bryce the FIGHTING MACHINE!! You bless us all with your strength and courage. Pleae don't get discouraged. Remember you three are never,ever alone. Love Jenny
Dear Tammy, Bryce & Dani,
We absolutely LOVED the wonderful photo video!!! How photogenic you all are. You continue to be a very handsome man, Bryce, at ANY weight! What a beautiful, beautiful family you are!
What GREAT news to read about the brain tumors! We are happy that the feeding tube is in place and pray that giving you more nourishment will be a huge help to you.
What a darling little doll Dani is! How fun that she is doing the bottom-up crawl!
Please know that we continue to think and pray for you daily. You add a very special touch to our lives each day.
With lots of love, the Reeves
That's great news about the MRI! Yay! Sorry to hear about the feeding tube, but hopefully it will help in the long run!
Today, and today only, I will appreciate my 'muffin top'! That made me LOL!!
Keep up the fight! :)
I will remain nameless as to not embarase my child. Sunday was our Primary Program in Sacrament Meeting. I have a Sunbeam(3 years old)and they always put those cute little ones right in the front for the whole congregation to see. My little one decided during one of the songs to start singing "The Wheels on The Bus". It soon snowballed and she had the whole Sunbeam class singing it and doing the motions. So it was a round the little ones performing and the rest of the primary singing the loveing Primary song. You can guess which got more attention! Needless to say her teacher stood by her the next song. Boy am I in for it with this one!
We love you so much - keep your head up Bryce! Lots of Love.
Tammy, I saw your post on my niece's Julie's blog, and I really feel for what you are going through. It is rather scary since Julie has been mostly so well up to this point. Thank you for taking the time to post on their blog.
What cute little darlings! But then, they all take after their mommies in the looks department. I can say that, because their mommies take after their aunt (moi) he he he. Okay, all you other aunts--don't be jealous of me!
That is such wonderful news about the MRI. It gives us all hope that you are the 1%. I don't know anyone that could have a feeding tube put in without gagging so I'm glad that the doctor had that favorite food trick up his sleeve! :)
Know that you are all loved by so many people. I continue to be amazed at the many kindnesses that are being showered on you. You are lucky to have so many friends, and strangers, who continue to buoy you up. I wish I lived closer so that I could help.
And now, a little story for you:
A father was packing for a business trip while his 3-year old daughter was having a wonderful time playing on the bed. At one point she said, "Daddy, look at this," and stuck out two of her fingers.
Trying to keep her entertained, he reached out and stuck her tiny fingers into his mouth and said, "Daddy's gonna eat your fingers!" pretending to eat them before he rushed out of the room again.
When he returned, his daughter was standing on the bed staring at her fingers with a devastated look on her face.
He said, "What's wrong, honey?"
She replied, "What happened to my booger?"
My love and prayers to you.
Aunt Elaine
Way to go!!!!! I know that feeding tube was really hard to swallow but it will be worth it. You just have to do this one day at a time and now your days sound better just keep it up and everything will be better.
We all miss you so much at work just keep up the good work and keep fighting and you'll be back hee in no time.
I've always wanted to know someone as brave as to be the 1% I'm really glade you work here.
See you soon
Karen
Bryce & Tammy -
Glad to hear about the great MRI results! What an answer to prayer, huh?
I checked out your family photos - so beautiful and what a cutie pie Dani is!! Congratulations on such a beautiful little girl!
Bryce...wanted to let you know that my husband and I are expecting our first - it's a girl, due March 1st. Thought you'd want to know. :)
We all miss seeing your face around here. Deb asks of you often.
Take care of you, and Tammy don't forget to get a little shut-eye now and then.
You both are a tremendous inspiration. Let us know if we can do anything!
-Jill
Your family is so beautiful! I loved the picture slide show- she did a great job capturing your family and your love.
I am so thrilled for the wonderful news about the tumors on your brain and lungs staying stable. I am so excited for your future! With stable tumors, a feeding tube for energy, your determination and the whole nation praying for you- I know you will have continued miracles. Thank you for sharing your stories and thus your lives with all of us to remind us of God's power, mercy and love.
I'm so glad we finally got to be wosses together last night! It was fun...we'll definitely have to do it again. Next time it will be fried Twinkies and "Cry Baby". I'll make sure I keep the video camera on my bedside every time Nic takes ambien too so you can get in a good laugh :) You guys are the best. Thanks for letting us come over and be pointless. We really do enjoy being with you guys. And let 'DANI' (said in Camryn's smoker voice) come play soon! Love ya, Steff
Tammy,
Thank you for sharing this experience...your heartache and hopes. After reading your last two entries my eyes were opened and my spirit lifted. Thanks for putting my own concerns and disappointments in perspective. We pray for you and your family daily.
Love, D.L.
Bonjour Bryce,Tammy and Dani!
I don't know you guys personnally but after reading all of your blog from july till now(that is all today) i feel like a know a great family. I couldn't go on with my day without saying hello.
You are all so gorgeous in those pictures. I think that every family should have a photo session like that. It's just so great to have all that love and connections captured on film forever. I think we'll have one scheduled before Christmas.
You guys focus on your love and that will get you through the tough times. Illness i found from experience can break your couple or make it stronger. We can tell that it has made you guys rock solid.
I wish i had a good joke but i never can remember them.Just remembered one i read on a french joke site(cause i'm french)One day a blonde has a flat tire.she's on the side of the highway and wonders what she'll do.Another blonde drives by, stops and tell her to blow her in her tire. The first blonde thanks her and starts blowing air through the muffler. Out of breath she asks the other blonde why it's not working. The other blonde answers: you idiot you're blowing air in but you left your windows open.
Bryce, you have an amazing lady as your wife,I wish I had someone like her for a friend.
Dani you have two amazing parents.
I'm glad you got super good news about your health today. keep up the good work.
Nathalie and family
You are a hero, a mentor and so much more. I can't imagine how many lifes you have touched and inspired to enjoy life, "pay-it-forward", love one another, etc. etc. Hang in there! Miracles are all around us! You are in so many prayers and I know god is with you plus so many special angels!
I linked to your site through my friend Julie's blog. She too is battling melanoma. I have scrolled through your entries and have been touched by your courage. God Bless you, Bryce and your adorable daughter Dani. Count on another set of prayers going up for you and your families each day.
Dear Bryce and Tammy,
What wonderful news! It felt like someone threw open a window and the sunlight came pouring in. We keep you in all our prayers. We'll pray that things keep getting better. The Saints in Guadalajara Mexico and Idaho Falls Idaho are praying for you too. I wish I had words that could strengthen you and buoy you up, as this news has done for me. Hang in there. Baskin Robbins in Bountiful has 48 flavors, and Ben and Jerry's will let you create your own. There are yet reasons to rejoice.
We love you and your family,
Sally
Dani is getting cuter by the day. Glad you got such good news.
Suzan
Hi guys!
Ok, the little chicks are ADORABLE! Why didn't I get to meet Camryn and Brooklyn? Geez Louise Steff...Holly made it over to see us! OK, just teasing...sort of (spank). Dani is wearing her cute little striped leggings! Aren't those a crack up? I hope she likes them ;D.
So glad to hear good news for Bryce. WOO HOO! Sorry you are so weak. D@#N it! Sounds like you have gotten some stern talking to's about EATING Mr. Bryce! I wish we were still there so we could try to push more chocolate cream pie on you.
Tammy--are you going to put on your Wonder Woman outfit for Halloween? I hope if you don't have one that someone will dash over with one. You should wear it every day. And come on...you KNOW Bryce would like it! You are AWESOME.
Just wanted to say hello and that we are still thinking about you guys ALL THE TIME and what a nice time we had hanging out with ya. We are already talking about when we can come back.
Take care...love your guts...HATE the cancer.
XOXO
LOve, Kathleen
Bryce,
After watching "the video", you now know someone with something truely worthy of embarrasment.
"Toughness is in the soul and spirit, not in muscles and an immature mind."
Bryce and Tammy,
Just wanting you to know the prayers never cease for complete healing for you, for a cure for this dreadful disease, and for you to be able to return to your wonderful life and grow old together.
Hope this finds your spirits up, and here's hoping the feeding tube has given Bryce some much needed nourishment and strength to bounce back soon.
Take care of yourself,
Jenni, wife of Brian (35 y/o) stage IV melanoma
Glad to see that Bryce is getting the much needed nutrients and getting stronger. Still praying everyday for him.
Golf Joke #5 to make Bryce laugh:
A man is getting married, and is standing by his bride at the church.
Standing by him is his golf clubs and bag.
His bride whispers: "What are your golf clubs doing here?"
And the man said "This is not going to take all day is it?"
I don't think I have posted that one yet. I should really keep track.
Take Care,
Judy
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Hi Bryce, Tammy and Dani,
Yay - I'm so glad to hear your MRI had awesome results. You should have a reward like that for having to put up all the scans and procedures you've endured lately. You truly are an awesome strong warrior (you even have the Melanoma Cleaver to prove it :) I was SO happy to be able to see you guys at the hopsital on Friday (although, I wish we could meet somewhere much more fun next time). And I was being so honest when I said that Bryce still had the best smile with him. Y'All are just the best - don't ever forget that! I hope you guys can have a relaxing and cuddly weekend in all this rain. We all love ya' lots!
Natalie