Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Hard news - but surrounded by love

Madeleine’s Blog

December 10, 2013
So do not fear, for I am with you
Do not be dismayed, for I am your God
I will strengthen you and help you
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand
Isaiah 41:10


Madeleine had her scans done yesterday afternoon, and the results came surprisingly quickly. Our local oncologist (Dr. Andersen) came by the house after he got off work to personally give Madeleine and her family the news. He sat on the edge of Madeleine's bed and uttered the words that we have for some time been hoping not to hear: that the cancer had spread significantly throughout her liver...that she has some small blood clots in her lungs that are causing her most recent breathing difficulties...that the most recent clinical trial drugs appeared to work only for a short time...and that there were no more treatment options available that would be helpful to Madeleine, especially in her weakened state. His recommendation was that we meet with Hospice in order to get the kind of assistance we will need in these coming days. All of this difficult news was delivered with genuine concern and tenderness - we have been through a lot with this doctor, and he has been so helpful every step of the way. 

When the doctor left, the reality of the news hit, and the crying together as a family began. It was actually a bittersweet time - with the bitterness of the reality of the depth of this pain, and yet at the same time there was a beauty in the depth of the love expressed between each member of the family. It is hard to describe, but I will never forget it. 

And so, we ask your prayers for Madeleine and for the family at this time. We made arrangements today to have help from Hospice in overseeing her care. In recent weeks, Madeleine has become significantly weaker and is now needing oxygen at times throughout the day. She is often uncomfortable, but not in significant pain at this point. She tires quite easily and so can only handle short visits, but has been blessed by people's expressions of love.

Chloe - making herself at home on Madeleine's bed :)
A special treat tonight:
Madeleine's friend, Devon, brought her tiny dog Chloe over to spend the night on Madeleine's bed and keep her company (at Madeleine's request). Hopefully, they will both get some good sleep tonight :)

Thank you again for your continued prayers, and thanks to those who have been bringing meals, sending notes, and helping to support the family during this time. 

14 comments:

Auntie Leslie said...

Hello Sweetie. Emily and I are so glad we had some time with you this past weekend. You are always in my heart - you have been since the day you were born. We continue to send prayers and love and hugs your way every moment of the day...Hopefully you can feel the HUGS!
Love to Mommy, Daddy and Max too!

Anonymous said...

Madeleine and Family,
I love and pray for all of you. Please know that our family holds you in our hearts every day.
Love Always,
Jim Haas and Family.

Anonymous said...


I can only imagine how hard it must be to accept this recent news. I hope that these days are full of lots of love, shared feelings, and trust that you will all be together again one day. You have all been so brave and Madeleine has fought the good fight. May God give you strength to make the most of these coming days. ❤️

Anonymous said...

Dear Maddie, Deanne, David & Max, You are constantly in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Madeleine - you have touched us -- and so many others --- with your smile and bravery. With much love,
Phil & Debbie Krohn

Anonymous said...

Madeleine and family,

I work with David and see the amazing strength he carries everyday and the genuine love he has for Maddie. There are no words during this time. Love and prayers to the Bonta Family!!

Sincerest,
Shannah Ahmed

Robinlvs said...

I only met you a few times, but what stuck with me always, was that amazing smile and beautiful, bubbly energy you displayed. I have held you in my thoughts and followed your progress since Austin told me of this blog. You have touched so many with your journey. I hope you feel the love that so many, probably from some you would never imagine, are sending. Sincerely, Robin Smandra & Family

fyrebrand said...

Hi Madeleine (Max, Your Mom and Dad too) - I'm so glad you get to have Chloe tonight, What a sweet friend to share her with you! Plus, the kitties! Nelson! Never underestimate furball love. Though this is crappy news, I and your cousins here in the east and Great Uncle Dayne love all of you deeply and are holding you all in our prayers and thoughts. You are bear hugged!

Cousin Julie said...

Forgot to tell you it is cousin Julie (Fyrebrand)

Kircarp said...

Dear sweet Madeleine, brave Maddie...may the Peace that surpasses our human understanding fill you, surround you and care for you. I have watched your bright smile shine for so many years as you have grown so lovely and so mature. :) You have blessed and inspired me and so many. With love, Kirsten

Anonymous said...

Bonta Family you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
The Anderson's Eric, Sandy, Kayla , Ryan and Alyssa

Janet Johnson said...

Madeleine, Max, Deanne and David,

My heart and prayers continue to go out for you all. I am so saddened by the cancer growth. But so touched by all the love and prayer surrounding you all. You are a beautiful family. You are on holy ground. This is a holy time.

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2Cor. 4:16-18

Praying for God's eternal glory to be surrounding you all.

Janet

Anonymous said...

Madeline and family,
For the past year and half my Mom has been inspired by you you since she was diagnosed with advanced stage Melanoma in June of 2012. She is a member of kaiser and when I searched information about her Oncologist Dr. Galani your blog came up. I shared your blog with our family and friends and you inspired us all. Not because you were winning or losing your battle, but because of the dignity, grace and hope you fought it with. I read your blog to my Mom today and she wept for you. She has a special place in her heart for you. She understands your battle all to well, Last year we read your blog and realized we saw you in the waiting room. You guys had pet-scans one after the other at Kaiser Riverside. I realize nothing I can say can make things better for you or free you from your circumstance. But, I can tell you that your blog inspired my family and gave us faith in the human spirit and humanity. Words cannot express our gratitude.

Unknown said...

Madeleine, I have only met you a couple times and In those times I have seen such a beautiful young women. I am so so sorry to hear about the recent news. When I heard my heart just broke. I have been thinking about you and praying for you. My prayers go out to you and your family.

kelly said...

May the Lord bless you all. I am so sorry.