updates

September 5
Dear Friends,

     I am writing this as I am returning from spending four days with Mary Beth in Pittsburgh. This was our second weekend together made possible by the support of friends and family. The time with MB and her parents in the home of longtime family friend Susie Steitz (in a 1910 era neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Shady Side) has been a breath of fresh air in this ordeal.

     Many of you are aware that MB had several rough days last week when she experienced several seizures as the result of edema (pressure) and minor bleeding.   We now feel comfortable that increases in her seizure medication, dialantin has that symptom under control although MB periodically does experience headaches, the precursor to last week's seizures. Today we celebrated the completion of radiation. Administration of the chemo drug, temozolomide is set to begin Thursday and run through next Monday. MB may elect to return to KC following an assessment next week.

     One of the many fringe benefits of working with this team of melanoma health care professionals at the University of Pittsburgh's Cancer Clinic is that MB has been able to contact other survivors of cancer similar to her own. Mary Beth is invigorated by these discussions as she is by the many postings on the website and private notes to her. We thank you for your unending support and prayers.

With our Love,
Keith, MB and the children

August 29
To all of my family and friends,

     Your support and positive encouragement has meant more than you will ever know. I love you all so much.
     Here in Pittsburgh, I have seen Drs. Flechinger and Kirkwood and feel very positive by their plans. I plan on finishing radiation next week and plan to start chemotherapy shortly after. We will hopefully make it home soon. (Hopefully you'll recognize me without hair.)
     I love you all. Thanks for being there for the Connors.
                                                                         Mary Beth

August 22
Dear Friends of Mary Beth's

     We have experienced a week filled with community support since I last took a moment to update you on Mary Beth.

     The spiritual dimention of Mary Beth's case is in full swing, kicking-off with a large and punctual rosary gathering at Dick and Bernadette Miller's home last Wednesday evening. Friday evening's prayer service at Visitation was standing room only. The presence of many old and new friends at the service gave great strength to Mary Beth. Fr. Norm's grace set a dignified tone for the evening until Mary Beth quieted the sanctuary by announcing that she was going to "kick-butt" with this disease.

     Fr. Connor led the transition from prayer to service by putting in two full days prepping and painting at 829 West 53rd. It was amazing what 30 plus professional men can accomplish on a Saturday with beautiful weather, a little food and beer, and minimal direction from spouses. Thanks to Sean, Ace and Murph for organizing the painting event and thanks to all for giving us a part of your weekend. (I accumulated a pile of tools in my garage if any of you are missing anything.) As you could imagine, Mary Beth was overwhelmed with the results when she returned to the house Saturday evening. Check out the links to the painting pictures to see the results.

     Mary Beth and I are heading to Pittsburgh for an assessment meeting with Dr. John Kirkwood upon his return from Germany. Mary Beth will be in Pittsburgh from August 22 through at least August 28. Cards can be sent to her at the following address:
                                                       Mary Beth Connor
                                                          c/o Susie Steitz
                                                        704 Amberson Ave.
                                                       Pittsburgh, PA 15232

We'll keep you posted on our findings and progress.

August 15
     As many of you know, Mary Beth was diagnosed on August 9 with an advanced stage of melanoma (a form or skin cancer) that has spread to her brain and her lungs. The tumor in her brain began causing her headaches which prompted Mary Beth to go to St. Luke's Hospital where she has worked as a nurse for almost 20 years. CAT scans revealed tumors in her brain and in her lungs.

     St. Luke's team of oncologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons, including many personal and professionals friends of Mary Beth's, successfully addressed the immediate symptoms of the headaches within the first few hours of her stay.

     Since then, your physical and emotional support of Mary Beth and our family has allowed us to be in contact with a half dozen national medical experts in melanoma, neuro-oncology and immunotherapy.

     Based on this consultation, a treatment plan has been determined. Whole brain radiation will begin on Wednesday, Ausust 15, 2001. It will be followed by Temodar, a chemotherapy drug last year approved for use with melanoma patients, especially those with disease in the brain. In 30 days, Mary Beth's progress will be assessed and adjustments made to her treatment as necessary.

     Mary Beth and I appreciate your many efforts on our behalf. We know Mary Beth has been in your prayers these last few days. Mary Beth's spirits are uplifted by the generosity of your time and talents. We hope to be released for outpatient treatment following today's radiation. We know that our great and expanding community of faith will keep Mary Beth in their prayers. I am off to be with my wife.