_{Hughes B. Hoyle III
1941 - 2008}

December 2007

Mon. Nov. 24, 2008 - morning sun

Simon refused to leave Hughes' bed
after he passed away.
 

Welcome to my website!
Come on in!

Christmas 2007 - the family at the foot of his bed
from left to right - daughter Jamie, daughter Elisabeth,
wife Janet, son Hughes (IV), and son Sam
(Elisabeth is holding either Simon or Sullivan)
 

Son Sam and Daughter Elisabeth - 2008

Janet and Elisabeth at the
Music Fest n' Sugar Grove, NC.

clockwise from bottom - Daughter Elisabeth,
ex-wife Carol, and current wife Janet
at the Music Fest n' Sugar Grove, NC.

Here is the evidence! 
Soon after this picture was taken,
Hughes fell out of bed. 
He claims he had a dream that he was
in the road and a car was coming and
he jumped out the way and then
found himself on the floor.
But, the family thinks the cats pushed him -
see how they are taken up more than half the bed! 
Sullivan says Simon did it and, of course,
Simon says Sullivan did it.
No Hughes' were harmed in the falling out of the bed.

Dr. Elisabeth Harrington just before her recital.

Math can be fun!

Pills are yucky.

Your webmistress - daughter Jamie

Son Sam - Dec. 4, 2007

Hughes & Janet at their 25 Year Anniversary
Renewal of their Wedding Vows

Hughes driving to Folly Beach - July 9, 2008

Do you want to be notified when Hughes' website is updated?
To be added to the distribution list, please send an e-mail to
larsenj@winthrop.edu with the subject line of 'Hughes'
Thanks!

Mon. June 29, 2009 - It's been a few months since
Hughes' memorial service and we want to update you
as to what Hughes' family has been up to since December. 
Also, today would have been Hughes' 68th birthday!

Janet moved to Rock Hill, SC in January.
The cats, Simon & Sullivan, were not too sure about this, but
after conferring amongst themselves for a couple of days they
agreed that the new house was acceptable.

Janet's house in Rock Hill  /  S&S on Day 1 of living in RH ("Can we go home now?")

S&S - Day 2 in Rock Hill  ("Okay, this picture window is nice. We can stay.")

Jamilyn still works at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC and
over her spring break she flew to California to visit Elisabeth.

Elisabeth in front of a redwood stump in the Redwood Forest behind
Humboldt State University.

Elisabeth just completed her 3rd year as a faculty member
at Humboldt State University in Arcata, CA.

Hughes IV moved from Charleston, SC to Greensboro, NC.

Sam continues to work at a hospital as a
surgical assistant in Columbia, SC.

Earlier this month, we got together to set Hughes' ashes
adrift off the pier at Nags Head, NC. 
Hughes spent many summers in the Outer Banks as a child and
this was one of his final requests.

(from left to right) - Janet, Mary (Sam's girlfriend); Sam; Hughes IV; and Elisabeth.
There we go with the color coordinated outfits again!

And Charcoal has a new home in Jamie's office on the campus of Winthrop University.

Charcoal kept Hughes company at the hospital and when he went to the doctor
(adopted from the Roper Hospital Gift Shop).
 

(Want more pictures?  Click Here!)

We hope you are all well and having a wonderful summer!

-The Hoyle Family

Fri. Dec. 12 - Janet traveled to Rock Hill, SC 
yesterday to take a look at the construction at the Rock Hill house.
She had a nice visit with daughter Jamilyn, Lars, the
five cats, and the new dog Rocco.

Wed. Dec. 10 - Well, there is supposed to be a video to the left,
please let your webmistress know if you can see it - because she can't!
Meanwhile, see below for pictures from the reception following the
Memorial Service and the Music & Game Celebration!

(Pictures of Reception, Music, and Games)

Tues. Dec. 9, 2008 - Words can not express the appreciation the
family of Dr. Hughes B. Hoyle III feels toward everyone who sent cards,
e-mails, flowers, food, condolences, and/or attended Hughes'
memorial service this past Saturday, December 6.
 - - -
The bagpiper, Gospel Choir, and trumpeter from The Citadel and
the church choir were amazing!
Those who spoke at the Service gave the audience a varied
view of Hughes as a colleague, student, teacher, family member,
musician, church member, and friend.
And many people mentioned to the family how inspirational the
ministers were in their selection of bible passages, words, and stories.
 - - -
There is a CD recording of the service, and if your webmistress
(who is not a web designer, but plays one at work)
can figure out how to link it to this website, she will.
The same goes for the PowerPoint slide show which played
in the Fellowship Hall following the service.
 - - -
In the next couple of days, we'll also post pictures from the
reception and a small gathering at the family home Saturday evening
where the celebration of Hughes' life continued with music and
games (of course) with those who for years performed with
or played games with Hughes.
 - - -
Thank you again for all your thoughts and prayers.
Wishing you the best,
The Hoyle Family

Mon. Dec. 1 - For those of you from out of town who plan to
attend Hughes' memorial service (Sat. Dec. 6 at 2 p.m.), there
are four hotels within close proximity of The Citadel and
John Wesley Methodist Church:

Best Western Charleston - Downtown
Comfort Inn Charleston
Courtyard by Marriott Charleston Riverview
Charleston Marriott

On www.hotelfinder.com, search under
'Charleston, SC' ('show properties near' The Citadel),
the hotels above are listed in order of expense
(lowest to highest).

The church is located at 626 Savannah Highway  / Charleston, SC

You can get a map of the church's location
by going to www.mapquest.com

Tues. Nov. 25, 2008 - We are saddened to let you know that
Hughes B. Hoyle III passed away peacefully in his sleep late Sunday night 
He was unconscious the last 48 hours of his life and was not suffering.
A memorial service will be held Sat. Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. at John Wesley United Methodist Church (West Ashley) in Charleston, SC.

Link to Obituary

Once again we'd like to thank everyone for your thoughts and
prayers the last 13 months.  Janet and the family would not have been
able to handle everything if it wasn't for the love and support of
family and friends.

We've tried to call everyone we had contact information for
to let you know personally.  If you are just hearing this news, we
apologize for not being able to let you know over the phone.

Thank you again,
With love and blessings,
the Hoyle Family 

Wed. Nov. 19 - Please keep Hughes and family in your prayers and thoughts.  Hughes is having a difficult time recovering from the chemo
he received last week.  We hope he feels better soon. Thank you.

Mon. Nov. 17 - One more round of chemo down...
two more to go.  Hughes completed his 4th round of
chemo (2nd regimen) this past Friday.
Currently he is scheduled for 2 more rounds - Nov. 24 and Dec. 8. 
The effects of this round have been difficult. 
He is sleeping a lot, not eating, and very weak. 
Please keep him in your prayers/thoughts the next few days.
Thank you as always for all your support.

Wed. Nov. 5 - Still doing okay and at home.
Hughes continues to get stronger and have a good appetite.
He works several times a week with the physical therapist. 
At his last doctor visit, the doctor was pleased with Hughes'
progress and said he could start back on chemo when he feels like it. 
Hughes wants to wait another week to get stronger. 
His next doctor appointment is Monday.
-------
Take note of the new pictures to the right.
Deconstruction of the Rock Hill House has begun.
Several of you asked if Hughes and Janet are moving.
Yes, they own a house in Rock Hill, SC (where your
webmistress lives) and they plan to move January 1st since
Hughes has now officially retired from The Citadel.
 

Sun. Oct. 26 - Hughes ate a good breakfast and a good lunch. 
Mr. Washington came to the house to help Janet clean, pack, and help
Hughes in and out of his wheelchair and into bed.  Mr. W also took
Hughes for a ride in the wheelchair outside for some
sunshine and fresh air.

Sat. Oct. 25 - Daughter Jamie arrived for a visit.
Jamie and Janet went to lunch and then made Hughes' request of
spaghetti and meatballs for dinner.  Jamie slept downstairs on the couch to help Hughes in the night so Janet could have a full night's sleep with
no interruptions.  Jamie played the piano (badly) for Hughes.

Fri. Oct. 24 - Doctor visit in the monsoon...
Hughes' platelets, white cell count, and clotting times were all good. 
The oncologist explained that Hughes can not have more chemo until
he is routinely up, out of bed (not just sitting in a chair) but actually
walking around doing things for half of each day. 
 - - -
Then the chemo will be in pill form not an IV (same
chemical in an easy to swallow form and just as effective). 
The doctor thought it might take weeks or even months for Hughes to
be strong enough for more chemo.  It depends on how hard Hughes
works at therapy and exercises. 
 - - -
The doctor also repeated that the CT scan taken while he
was in the hospital showed that the new lymph tumor at
the base of his left lung which the radiologist saw in August is gone! 
We received orders for a hospital bed, physical therapist to
come to the house, and a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) to
come three days a week.

Thurs. Oct. 23 - Son Sam came for a visit today from Columbia.
John M. who lives down the street from Hughes and Janet asked what
he could do to help.  Janet told him that Hughes needs a ramp over
 the back stairs to get him in and out of the house with his wheelchair. 
John M. arranged for the Citadel Physical Plant to install
an official handicap ramp at the back door. 
The ramp is wide enough for the wheelchair, steel, and safe. 
This is a great help for when Hughes goes to the doctor's office. 
Many thanks to John M. and the Citadel Facilities Management workers!
 - - -
Also, a Mr. Washington came to meet with Janet to discuss the
possibility of helping a few days a week with packing, lifting Hughes when needed, and other household duties.  He was highly recommended by friend Dr. A and has worked in an assisted living facility in the past.
 

Wed. Oct. 22 - Hughes is feeling a bit better today.
When Hospice came to see him yesterday, Hughes told them that
he had decided to try chemo again.  He has a doctor's appointment
Monday to see if the doctor agrees with this decision. 
If so, Hughes will start round 4 of chemo next week.
Meanwhile, the physical therapist came back yesterday to help
Hughes get stronger so he can better sit up, stand up, and walk.
Several new people have asked to be added to Hughes' update list -
there are now 44 people of the list!
Also, here is a quote from an e-mail from one of Hughes' former students:
"I do think of his lessons often.  He is one of a few teachers that
I've ever had that challenged me to think, instead of just memorize
the material.  I think he has taught me more than he intended." 

Mon. Oct. 20 - Hughes was not feeling well this morning.
He had a 10 a.m. appointment with the oncologist and was too weak to go.
Janet called the doctor's office to ask what to do since she and son Hughes could not get Hughes in the car.  Finally, the doctor's office called back
and asked Janet to come in to talk with the doctor. 
Son Hughes stayed with Hughes at home.
The doctor asked Janet what was going on and after explaining the increasing weakness and other complications, the doctor said we should hold off on the next round of chemo and that he would make a referral to Hospice.
 - - -
A nurse from Hospice will visit Hughes at 9 a.m. Tues. morning (10/21/08)
to evaluate his situation and to see what assistance is needed.
Janet asked that everyone please pray for and send good thoughts Hughes' way  - we are hoping that with a break from chemo maybe his body will rebound and he will feel better over the next few days.
Thank you as always for all your thoughts and prayers.

Sat. Oct. 18 - Friend Bud from NC came to visit.

Fri. Oct. 17 - Hughes has left the hospital to go home!
And we had just decorated his hospital room for Halloween!
The CAT scan also showed that the chemo is working on the cancer in his lymph nodes.  This is good news because until he heard that Hughes was thinking of not continuing with chemo treatments.

Thurs. Oct. 16 - The CAT scan showed that due to all the
 blood thinners Hughes was on a capillary burst which caused the large bruise on his chest and back.  The doctor said this is not harmful is just looks bad.  Now that Hughes is off some of the blood thinners the internal bleeding has stopped and his hemoglobin levels are going up.  He is looking better, feeling better, and he is hungry.

Tues. Oct. 14 - Still in the hospital...
Hughes was supposed to go home today, but after a
visit from the oncologist and blood work they decided he
needed 2 more units of whole blood. 
Hughes was supposed to have a CAT scan before the
next round of chemo which was supposed to start yesterday. 
The CAT scan hasn't been done and chemo hasn't started. 
The doctor isn't answering questions about this and the
nurses aren't allowed to give their opinions. 
This is a bit frustrating. 
 - - -
It's been 3 weeks since Hughes had chemo and
his hemoglobin is down enough that after today he will have
received six units of blood in the past week.
 - - -
Former student (and current co-worker of Hughes' nephew Alan),
Mr. F,  stopped by for a visit this weekend. 
And Shirley and Bill from church visited.
 - - -
Son Sam visited last Wed. and Jamie was here Thurs. - Sun.
Son Hughes has dinner ready for Janet each day she comes home from
the hospital: ribs, barbecue chicken, country style steak, etc. 
He is a very good cook.
 - - -
Here was one funny exchange (laughter is the best medicine):
Hughes:  When can I have my pain medication back?
Doctor:  Well, you are getting Tylenol.  Isn't that enough.
Hughes:  But that's only once a... month.
Doctor:  Once a month?  That's not enough?
Jamie:  But Daddy, it's extended release Tylenol.
Doctor: (laughs) Okay, I'll put in an order for pain medication.

Breaking News - 3:45 p.m.
We interrupt today's program of Whole Blood to
do a CAT scan of a swelling on Hughes' chest. 
We will return to the Whole Blood program as soon as possible.
 

Thurs. Oct. 9 - And he's up!
Hughes is still in the hospital but has gotten up and is
working on walking.  He will not need an angioplasty which is
good news!  Son Sam is here and daughter Jamie will
arrive from Rock Hill around 4 p.m. 

Wed. Oct. 8 - Still in the hospital, but feeling much better!
Hughes is still in the hospital and may be able to come home Fri. or Sat. 
The doctor took him off all unnecessary medications and that seemed to
help a lot - he is much more alert now and his appetite has returned.
The MRI showed that his "head is on straight" as Hughes put it.
 - - -
Unfortunately, we've had to postpone Hughes' retirement party.
Many thanks to those in the Citadel Math Department who were
planning to attend and to John M. and wife who were
hosting the party at their home.
 - - -
Breaking News - Janet just called your webmistress as
she was about to post this...
the doctor came in and said the MRI also showed that Hughes has
had a series of mini-strokes.  They will start him on a blood thinner and
other stroke preventing medicine.  They will also do an ultrasound to
determine if an angioplasty is necessary.
 

Mon.  Oct. 6 - Back in the hospital...
Hughes went for a check up this morning and his oncologist sent him to
the hospital.  Hughes has low platelets, low blood pressure, low
hemoglobin, anemia, and malnutrition (from not eating due to chemo). 
The doctor said Hughes should be fixed up within 24 hours. 
Let's hope so, the math department retirement party is this Thursday!
Son Sam is coming to visit Tuesday - Thursday and daughter
Jamie will be here Thursday - Sunday.

And for those of you who have been following Hughes' progress, it
was a little less than a year ago when Hughes first went into
the hospital and was diagnosed with lung cancer. 
From that first hospital visit - see the new pictures to the right! 
This is when Charcoal was adopted!

Thurs. Sept. 18 - Hughes will start his 3rd round of chemo Monday.
Meanwhile he is still recovering from the last round - and although
his hair wasn't supposed to fall out this time it still did.
He had to have a couple of bags of plasma this round.
Today Janet is going to visit daughter Jamie in Rock Hill, SC and
to check on the Rock Hill house.

Mon. Sept. 1 - Labor Day - No chemo this week!
The doctors are not planning to start Chemo this week because
it is a five day protocol and they don't labor on Labor Day (imagine that!)
Kitties Simon and Sullivan have a 1st birthday coming up and
they want two cakes.
Mothers of twins please advise... is this common practice?
At least they both agree on Lemon Glaze, but Simon wants
Tuna and Sardine and Sullivan insists on Flounder and Anchovy...

Sun. Aug. 31 - Son Sam came for a short visit. 
Daughter Jamie was not able to make it - something about a
draft of her master's thesis due October 1st.
Hughes is feeling much better this week than last.

Mon. Aug. 25 - Hughes went to the doctor for blood work
and the report was continue 5mg of Coumodin and come back next
Tuesday... no platelets, no shot, no magnesium, no potassium drip, etc.
 Hughes started taking an antibiotic for thrush. 
By today he was able to eat some better,
had less hiccups, and is resting a lot.
 
Sat. Aug. 23 - Margaret Downs, Director of Music
at John Wesley United Methodist Church and 16 of her closest
friends from the JWUMC Choir came to visit and sang. 
Young Gates was visiting and wanted them to sing "Jingle Bells"
but the four songs they selected were even better than "up on
the rooftop" (Janet's personal favorite).  [You try explaining
Christmas Caroling to a five year old in August!]  We loved it!
Thanks for the songs and the good cheer!
 
Sun. Aug. 17 - Robbie the Robot has left the building!
Jamie goes to Hughes' office to pack up a few more items and
takes Robbie the Robot back to Rock Hill.  Robbie was very
excited and even got to wear a seatbelt!
The effects of chemo are catching up with Hughes and
today he didn't feel very well.

Sat. Aug. 16 - To office, to office, to sort and toss stuff.
Hughes and Jamie go to Hughes' office to sort books and throw out old paperwork.  They find Hughes' high school diploma and his dissertation.
Jamie says that compared to visual art faculty offices (studios) that
Hughes' office is easy.

Fri. Aug. 15 - Hughes finishes his first round of Chemo Part II.
Daughter Jamie arrives to visit and help Hughes
start cleaning out his office.

Thurs. Aug. 14 - Uncle John arrives!
Janet's brother John from NJ stops in for a visit.

Mon. Aug. 11, 2008
We would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and
prayers the past few days as we waited for Hughes' CAT scan results.
Unfortunately, this morning the doctor said there are cancerous spots on Hughes' lymph nodes near his diaphragm and lungs.
These spots are 1/2 inch to 1 inch in size and were not there previously. 
So, Hughes started chemotherapy again today around 12:30 p.m.
The plan is for 6 rounds of chemo
(1 round = 5 days of chemo and then 2 weeks off).
The good news is - and there always is good news - the
bone lesions have not changed and the type of chemo Hughes
is taking this time will not affect his kidneys as badly as the last chemo.

Also, please note that Hughes' website has had over 1,000 hits!  Wow!  That's 1,000 times that someone has thought about and
checked in on Hughes' progress.
Please keep thoughts and prayers coming as Hughes starts
Round 1 of his 2nd set of chemo treatments today.
Thank you.

Thurs. Aug. 7 - CAT Scan
Hughes had a CAT scan this morning.  Son Sam came to visit from Columbia to help.  Hughes is expecting to receive results from the test on Monday.  Please keep Hughes and family in your thoughts and/or prayers as the results of the CAT scan will determine if Hughes will teach this Fall.

Aug. 2 - 4 - Friend Peter visits from Virginia.

Sat. July 12, 2008 - Girl's day out!
Wife Janet, daughter Elisabeth, and daughter Jamie go to the Music Fest 'n Sugar Grove (NC)  - along with Elisabeth's mother (Hughes' ex-wife) - and you think your family is weird!
They had a great time listening to the music, browsing the vendors wares, and they were introduced to the music group the
Carolina Chocolate Drops.
Check them out!
www.carolinachocolatedrops.com

 

Wed. July 9 - Field Trip!
Hughes, Janet, and daughters Elisabeth and
Jamie went to the beach!
Hughes drove to Folly Beach! 
Hughes and Janet sat on the pier and watched Elisabeth and Jamilyn swim in the ocean and
people fishing - one lady caught a baby shark!
No worries - the shark was released!

Tues. July 8, 2008 - Another fall...
but this one was a bit more comical.
While dreaming, Hughes thought
he was jumping out of the way of
an on-coming car, but really he
 jumped out of bed onto the floor. 
Fortunately, he was not hurt.
Actually, see picture and caption to the left -
we think the cats want Hughes' bed.

Mon. July 7 - Elisabeth has a recital!
Daughter Jamie arrives from Rock Hill and
Elisabeth gives an evening recital at
John Wesley United Methodist Church in
West Ashley (Charleston) -
one song was dedicated to Hughes!

Wed. June 12 - Hughes has been busy
the past few weeks!
After his CAT scan, he had his catheter removed.
Then, he was feeling so well he decided to
sing in the church choir one Sunday.
Unfortunately, he fell on his way up the
choir loft steps and broke 3 toes!
So despite feeling better while off chemo,
he still can't get around as easily as expected -
but is still thankful for many blessings including
no chemo and that he only broke 3 toes.
Meanwhile, Hughes goes to the doctor
once a week to have his Coumadin levels checked.
We are looking forward to seeing daughter
Jamie this weekend and daughter Elisabeth on
Mon. June 23 who will be visiting from California.
 

Mon. May 19 - Hughes had a dr. appointment this morning.
Dr. G said they only give 8 chemo treatments to patients in Hughes'
condition so Hughes is now done with chemo.
But then Dr. G.  said something Amazing -
it appears that Hughes is cancer free at this point! 
The chemo worked!
This Thurs. May 22 Hughes will have CAT scan to make sure - but he could be in remission!
If the CAT scan looks good - Hughes won't have to go back to the dr. for 3 months!
For now, Hughes' plan to teach in the Fall looks promising!
Hughes feels great - he is eating, he has energy, he sang at church last week!
It's hard to believe that just over 6 months ago, the
doctors said Hughes might only have 3 months!
As Janet said - prayers, thoughts, and warm fuzzies directed
toward people in need really do help!
Please keep Hughes in your prayers as he prepares for his CAT scan on Thursday.
 

Thurs. May 15 - Wow!  He sings!  It was better than watching American Idol!
We are trying to get a video of Hughes singing
in the John Wesley United Methodist Church talent show last night to
put on the website.
For now, anyone who can e-mail me the song Hughes sang from the musical Oliver gets -
um... a virtual prize by way of e-mail - ?
Sorry, your webmistress isn't prepared to offer real prizes.
 

Mon. May 12, 2008 - Hughes went to Roper today for platelets and fluids. 
But, amazingly, he has been feeling pretty well.  He and Janet went to church Sunday. 
 
Hughes is planning to sing in a
talent show this Wednesday evening
after the church supper at
John Wesley United Methodist Church,
628 Savannah Highway,
West Ashley (Charleston).
Supper is sloppy joes at 5:30 p.m. and the talent show will begin around 6 p.m. and last until 7:30 p.m. 
All are welcome and invited. 

This week's trivia is which song from the
musical Oliver! is Hughes planning to sing?

We are prayerful about this and the
CAT scan on the 22nd, and a possible
9th round of chemo on the 19th...
 
As always we are grateful for everyone and your thoughts and prayers.
 
-----------------

Mon. May 5, 2008 - Hughes' 8th round
of chemo is complete!
He received magnesium today but has been very tired and hasn't been up as much.
In about 2 weeks, he will have a CAT scan and another biopsy to see the results of his treatment so far.
Just in case, a 9th round of chemo has been scheduled, but the original plan was for just 8 rounds.
Daughter Jamie will visit this weekend for Mother's Day. 
It was just over 6 months ago that Hughes was diagnosed with cancer.
Hughes and the family are very grateful for all the help, cards, meals, visits, phone calls, thoughts, and prayers these past six months.
Please be thinking of Hughes May 19 and 22 when his CAT scan and biopsy are scheduled.
Charcoal, Simon, and Sullivan are not allowed
to assist with the CAT scan and
they are very upset.

Thurs. April 17, 2008 - At 6 p.m. Hughes was still napping after a long morning at the doctor.
He received magnesium again and a white blood cell shot. 
He woke up long enough to say that yes, he still wanted hamburgers for supper.

"I'll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today." - J. Wellington Wimpy
Popeye the Sailor comic strip - this week's trivia subject

Daughter Jamie is coming to visit this weekend and plans to take Janet back with her
to Rock Hill and then Janet will drive back on Monday.
Son Hughes (IV) will be with Hughes (III) while Janet is gone.


Mon. April 14 - Hughes was at the doctor's office today from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
He had lab work done and received magnesium fluids.
Hughes didn't feel very well over the weekend.
He was not up much at all and slept all the time.
This is normal after chemo treatments and usually passes after a few days.

Mon. April 7, 2008 - Hughes' 7th round of chemo is scheduled to start today

Sun. April 6 - Hughes wanted to go to church, so
Janet, Jamie, and Hughes went to 8:30 a.m. service.
Afterwards, they went to eat at the Blue Rose Cafe and Hughes
walked into the restaurant and didn't use his wheelchair!
After breakfast, Hughes and Jamie played 500 Rummy and Quirkle.

Sat. April 5 - Jamie came to visit and brought a Harry Potter
jigsaw puzzle which Hughes and Jamie put together Saturday evening.
Hughes walked upstairs again.

Thurs. April 3 - With the help of his physical therapist,
Hughes walked up the stairs at home and back down! 
This was the first time he had walked upstairs in about 4 months!

Wed. April 2, 2008 - Hughes goes back to the doctor for labs and
4 hours of magnesium by way of IV.  Talk about looking for silver linings...
Hughes is very pleased that since October he has lost 79 pounds.

Mon. March 31, 2008 - Hughes came home today!
Janet made Black Forest Chocolate Cake with
cream cheese and cherry filling and three
tall layers.  Yum! 
Hughes enjoyed riding in the sunshine to the
usual post discharge relay stations:
doctor's office for Rxs, the bank, Bi-Lo, the other Bi-Lo,
Harris Teeter for good orange juice,
the news stand to chat with Hassie and
get a week's worth of Charleston newspapers, etc. 
Even Janet's driving was better than the hospital...
Hughes is feeling much better after antibiotics, whole
blood, and lots of other fun IV chemicals.

Fri. March 28, 2008 - Hughes goes back into the hospital.
Hughes' temperature goes over 100 and his throat hurts. 
The doctor's office says his white blood cell count is
zero and sends him back to the hospital.

Fri. March 21 - Elisabeth and Jamilyn go home.

Thurs. March 20 -   Hughes, Elisabeth, Jamilyn, and son Hughes (IV)
play a new game called Quirkle.
Take scrabble and combine it with 6 colors and 6 shapes.

Wed. March 19 - Daughter Jamie arrives for her spring break

Tues. March 18 - The results from Hughes' scan and biopsy are
better than expected.  The 6th round of chemo starts today.

Mon. March 17 - Peter and Aileen go back to VA.

Sun. March 16 - Grand Central Station!
Daughter Jamie leaves to go back to Rock Hill, SC.
Daughter Elisabeth arrives from California
for a visit during her Spring Break.
And, oldest son Hughes (IV) arrives from NC.
Peter and Aileen are here.

Sat. March 15 - Peter and Aileen arrive for a visit from Virginia.
Daughter Jamie arrives this morning.

Fri. March 14 - Friend Bud comes for a visit from NC

Thurs. March 13 - Hughes has a bone scan and a bone biopsy to
see how he is doing.  Son Sam is here from Columbia.

Wed. Feb. 27 - Still Home!
Hughes is getting ready for another liver biopsy possibly this week.

Wed. Feb. 20 - Free at last!
Hughes came home today!
Thank you ever so much to:
Ann and Darold who picked Hughes up from the hospital,
helped Janet with the prescriptions, and ran errands;
Spencer came over and helped;
Judy helped carry Hughes' things in from the car;
Virginia took Janet to the doctor this morning and was here until 12 noon;
and Becky brought dinner over last night.

Tues. Feb. 19 - Keep your fingers crossed!
Hughes is scheduled to come home from
the hospital tomorrow!
His levels seem to be okay after the 5th
 round of chemo last week.
------------
This past month has been challenging with Hughes
in the hospital and Janet with a broken foot.
Thank you to everyone who has called, helped, brought food, and kept us in your prayers. 
Special Thanks to:

Bev - food:  Salmon patties & wonderful red rice
(Janet wants the recipe) and she read
Letters from Mrs. Billy Graham
Sheila - read Harry Potter (2x)
Bill - read more Harry Potter
(and Shirley) delivery of food from the choir
Barbara - meals with the worlds' best Lemon Torte Cake
Sylvia - Meatloaf -- Perfect
(just like Janet's childhood memory)
Fran -  Honey Baked Ham and fixin's
especially Pine Mt. Dinner Rolls
Cathy - food
Mai - errand running
Susan - food, support, love
Lenore - bread (homemade Love)
Janice - visit
Rebecca - transportation to the hospital Wed. pm
Virginia - taking care of Janet (the kitchen smell like heaven)
Peggy - live-in help for two weeks, sister-ship
Everyone - PRAYERS
Cards and letters from many many friends and family

We don't want to leave anyone out - please e-mail the
webmistress if you have been overlooked.
Also, see the 'Many Thanks' page.

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Mon. Feb. 18 - Janet's sister Peggy goes home
to Texas.

Sun. Feb. 17 - Friend Virginia arrives from NC.

Sat. Feb. 16 - Jamie and Lars visit
Jamie reads to Hughes Friday night and brings him
dinner - 1/2 a turkey sandwich, an orange, and
chocolate cake.  Even though he said he wasn't hungry,
Hughes eats everything!

Thurs. Feb. 14 - Happy Valentine's Day!
Son Sam visits from Columbia, SC.

Mon. Feb. 11 - 5th round of chemo starts
while Hughes is still in the hospital.
He is working with Physical Therapists to get strong
enough to get up and walk by himself.

Wed. Feb. 6 - still in the hospital (just over 2 weeks now)
hoping to go home this week as soon as Hughes is
strong enough to get around a bit better.

Tues. Feb. 5 - Hughes plays Crazy Eights with Peter
and Peter plays the guitar and reads to Hughes.
The swelling in Hughes' leg is much better today.
It is amazing the healing qualities of music, art, and literature.
Medical University of South Carolina and College of Charleston
Art Exhibition at MUSC's Ashley River Tower

Mon. Feb. 4 - Friend Peter from Virginia arrives

Sun. Feb. 3 - Janet's sister Peggy arrived from Texas
She will be staying for a couple of weeks to help while Janet's foot mends and to
help get Hughes settled when he comes home.
Hughes' leg is very swollen he is trying to keep it elevated.

Mon. Jan. 28 - Sam went to visit Hughes at the hospital this morning,
then he went back home to check on Janet.
We don't know when Hughes will come home from the hospital,
but every day his creatin, blood, b.u.n., levels have improved.
The reason he was so sick last Monday was his blood count was so low that
he wasn't getting enough oxygen.
The oncologist's physician assistant feels this was just a bad couple of days and that
Hughes should continue with treatment.

Sun. Jan. 27 - Janet's foot doesn't hurt as much and
she felt like getting out and visiting Hughes at the hospital.
They had a nice but short visit as Janet had to go home to elevate and ice her foot.
After a week of being in Charleston, Jamie leaves and
Sam comes in to take her place for the next week.
We don't know what we are going to do Saturday when Sam has to go back to work.
The church brought spaghetti, salad, and garlic bread for lunch!

Sat. Jan. 26 - Janet's foot hurts pretty bad so she stayed inside and napped
with her foot elevated and iced.
The hospital took chest x-rays of Hughes to compare his lungs now to before 4 rounds of chemo.
We haven't heard about results of these x-rays.
Wayne brought by dinner - grilled chicken, steamed green beans, bread, and baked sweet potatoes.

Wed. Jan. 23 - Janet does not need surgery on her foot, thank goodness!
But she has to wear a heavy boot and can't put weight on her foot for 2 weeks.
While Hughes is in the hospital she is using his wheelchair.
When Hughes gets home maybe we can get another one and they can have wheelchair races!
Doughnuts in the morning and Kentucky Fried Chicken were delivered for dinner.

Tues. Jan. 22 - The oncologist on call admitted he wasn't sure
Hughes was going to make it last night. 
But after 2 units of whole blood, fluids to flush out his kidneys,
and oxygen Hughes is feeling better.
A ham, black eyed peas, and cornbread was delivered from the church for Janet, Sam, and Jamie.

Mon. Jan. 21 - Janet's Birthday
Unfortunately, Hughes was very sick and around 5 p.m.
Jamie had to call 9-1-1 to take him to the hospital.
Janet rode with Hughes to the hospital with her broken foot.
Hughes and Janet's minister met them at the ER and was very supportive.
We were joking later that the ER could have taken care of both Hughes and Janet's foot.

Sun.  Jan. 20 - Jamie and Sam arrives to be here for Janet's birthday which is Monday.
Hughes does not feel well but this is normal for the mid-point between chemo rounds.

Fri. Jan. 18 - Janet went to the doctor and found out that she actually broke her foot.
We are waiting for an appointment with an orthopedic doctor to find out if she needs surgery.
Caring for Hughes with a broken foot is not easy.

Wed. Jan. 16 - Janet fell down the stairs and hurt her foot.
She can walk on it so we think it is just a bad sprain.

Tues. Jan. 8 - Still home!
Hughes hasn't been in the hospital for two and a half weeks!

Fri. Jan. 4 - Physical Therapy (aka Pain & Torture)
The Physical Therapist stopped by today.
Hughes was very sore tonight.

Wed. Jan. 2 - Peter and Eileen
from Virginia stop by on their way home from the beach;
while Judy and Virginia left this morning.
Hughes gets 7 hours of fluids at the doctor's office - but he's doing okay.

Mon. Dec. 31 - Virginia and Judy
from Greensboro, NC come to visit for the New Year!

Sat. Dec. 29 - 10th day after chemo
Hughes felt pretty bad this morning.
Elisabeth, Hughes IV, and Jamie left this morning.
Sam is still visiting.

Thurs. Dec. Dec. 27 - Doctor appointment
Hughes still doesn't have to go to the hospital!
He can stay home and continue to spend time with
the four kids while they are here.

Tues. Dec. 25 - Blessings of Christmas:
All 4 kids being home;
Cute twin kittens (S&S);
Piano duets and singing (Elisabeth and Jamilyn);
Watching movies (Hughes and Hughes IV);
Reading aloud to Hughes (Hughes IV);
Lots of good food (turkey; Nero Wolfe Steak, shepherd's pie);
indoor wrestling (Sam and Hughes IV); and
Playing Cards (Hughes, Elisabeth, Sam, Jamie, Hughes IV).

Mon. Dec. 24 - Doctor appointment
Hughes doesn't have to back to the hospital!
He will be home for Christmas with
all four kids, Janet, and the cats Simon & Sullivan -
this is everyone's best Christmas present!

Sun. Dec. 23 - Daughter Elisabeth and son Hughes IV arrive!
Neither of them have seen Hughes since he got sick.
Elisabeth arrived from California and Hughes IV from Raleigh, NC.

Thurs. Dec. 20 - Home!
After 3 days of chemo (3rd round)
Hughes is allowed to go home!
He doesn't have to go back to the doctor
for blood tests until Monday. 
Unfortunately, Monday is Christmas Eve and
it's possible he will be sent back to the hospital.
We hope and pray that Hughes will
be home for Christmas.
All 4 of his children will be here to see him:
Hughes IV, Elisabeth, Sam, and Jamie.

Tues. Dec. 18 - 3rd round of chemo starts!
Finally, Hughes' creatin levels are low enough that
they start chemo again.
They plan to keep him in the hospital during this round
and an extra day.
Maybe Hughes can be home for Christmas!

Mon. Dec. 17 - Still in the hospital
The doctor won't let Hughes come home or
start the next round of chemo until his
creatin levels in his kidneys go down.
The third round of chemo has
been delayed for a week now.
We are still hoping Hughes can
be home by Christmas.

Sun. Dec. 16 - Allison and Gates stop by
to visit Professor.
Sam and Jamie go home.

Sat. Dec. 15 - Jamie and Sam come to visit
Jamie helps Hughes pay some bills and
opens holiday and get well cards.
Jamie puts them up around the room - to
make it look less like a hospital room.
Daughter Elisabeth calls - she will be here next Sunday!

Fri. Dec. 14 - The cats, Simon and Sullivan,
report to Janet that the dish monster in the kitchen
is peeing all over the floor.
S&S pointedly remark that they are younger and
are litter-box trained.

Mon. Dec. 10 - still in the hospital
Hughes has had 3 units of whole blood and magnesium sulfate fluid.
He looks better but still feels pretty bad.
A urologist will stop by the hospital today - there is a possibility
Hughes will have to go on kidney dialysis.
Also the third round of chemo scheduled for today has been canceled.
The oncologist will also stop by the hospital today.

Sun. Dec. 9 - Set-back
Hughes has to go to the emergency room with kidney problems.
He is admitted to the hospital with uric acid and creatin levels very high in his kidneys
due to the chemotherapy.  He will need fluids and plasma.

Sat. Dec. 8 - Uncle John and Jamie
go buy a tree stand, lights, and sheet plastic to
"enclose" the back screen porch.
Janet starts installing Christmas decorations.
Gates comes to visit and has fun saying hello to professor,
Nina (Miss Janet), and playing with a train.
Jamie goes home.

Fri. Dec. 7 - Chemo port installed
Everything went very well. 
Right afterwards, Hughes, Janet and Jamie
went to the airport and picked up Uncle John
(Janet's brother) who will be here until Tuesday.

Thurs. Dec. 6 - 2 doctor appointments today
the kidney doctor and the oncologist to
check clotting levels for surgery tomorrow. 
Levels were okay - surgery is still planned for Friday.

Wed. Dec. 5 - Surgery delayed again
instead Hughes had to get his blood
clotting levels checked.
Now hoping for surgery on Friday.
Jamie and son Sam arrive.

Tues. Dec. 4 - Preparing for surgery tomorrow
to install a chemo port - nor more IV needles!
But, a problem comes up and Hughes
has to go to the hospital and get an infusion
of blood platelets due to his blood
clotting levels being too slow.

Thurs. Nov. 29 - Friend Peter and Son Sam are here

Sun. Nov. 25 - No doctor's visit for
the 2nd day in a row!
Jamie and Lars leave.

Sat. Nov. 24 - No doctor visit today!
Today's outing is to visit Hassie in
Mt. Pleasant and buy newspapers. 
Hassie saved Hughes three weeks worth of newspapers.

Fri. Nov. 23 - Bloodwork at
the doctor's office this morning.
Daughter Jamie and son-in-law Lars
arrive for a holiday visit.

Thurs. Nov. 22 - Thanksgiving!
We are thankful for family near and far -
not everyone has family.
We are thankful for neighbors and friends -
who have been so helpful the past few weeks.
We are thankful for health insurance -
some don't have it.
We are thankful for our church family -
and the support they have given us.
We are thankful for all that we have -
some people don't have anything.
We are thankful for our pets -
life would be so bland without them.

Wed. Nov. 21 - Sporting a new haircut!
Janet took Hughes to get his hair cut yesterday
- 1/4 of an inch all around.
We'll try to get a picture soon!

Tues. Nov. 20 - The oncologist changed the type of chemo
Hughes is receiving to lessen the chances of kidney problems and
he doesn't feel as bad as he did during the last treatment.
Last night he actually practiced for a solo he hopes to sing in church at Christmas:
"Mary Did You Know?"
He also ate some of the chicken alfredo casserole that Becky brought by.
This morning he walked down the stairs with almost no help and
he walked into the doctor's office and didn't need a wheelchair!

Mon. Nov. 19 - Oncologist visit - plan is to start 2nd round of chemo!
Steve helped Hughes down the stairs this morning.
Latest prognosis - the chemotherapy has a 70% chance of eliminating the cancer.
If this happens, only 50% of the time the cancer returns within a year.
Keep in mind - Janet was given 6 months to live when
diagnosed with cancer - that was 8 years ago.
And who knows what treatments they may find tomorrow -
cancer research is so prolific that treatments change weekly!
- - -
Paul, the minister at church, came by while Hughes was getting chemo.
He prayed with Hughes and the other patients receiving treatment
and for the healthcare workers who are so vital to this process. 
Everyone was so appreciative!

Sun. Nov. 18 - Place:  Roper Hospital - 7th floor - Outpatient fluids
Hughes - My hair falls out when I touch my head.
Daughter Jamie - Well, don't touch your head.
Hughes frowns.
Jamie looks at the hairs on Hughes' shirt.
Jamie - Don't worry, we'll vacuum you when we get home.
Hughes frowns deeper.

Sat. and Sun Nov. 17-18 - Three more liters of fluid at doctor this
takes at least 4 hours each day.
Margie brought by a chicken pot pie - yummy!
Cathy brings by a sausage and rice casserole - thanks!

Fri. Nov. 16 - Three liters of fluid at doctor and friends Bud, Nancy, and Jill visit!
Fran brought by dinner - ham, broccoli, and sweet potato casserole.

Thurs. Nov. 15 - Son Sam is here to help.

Tues. Nov. 13 - Many thanks to all the visitors and helpers!
Spencer went to the pharmacy and grocery store so
Janet could make Hughes something special for dinner
(Brunswick stew) - he is actually hungry!

Mon. Nov. 12 - Hughes comes home from the hospital.

Sun. Nov. 11 - Hughes' weight is 232.
He's lost 70 pounds since August. 
Not hungry for anything except lemon icees.

Sat. Nov. 10 - Daughter Jamie spends night in hospital
with Hughes so he and Charcoal won't be alone.

Fri. Nov. 9 - Back pain is back and bad.
Janet stayed Thurs. night in the hospital with Hughes and Charcoal so
they wouldn't be alone.
They changed Hughes' pain medicine to be administered intravenously so no more yucky pills - yeah!
Kidney function is back up to 1/3-1/2 which is good.
White blood cell count is up from 0% to .5% which is not great - but getting better.
Hughes may be able to go home Monday.

Thurs. Nov. 8 - Daughter Jamie and son Sam are here.
Anne and Dottie from church come to visit and bring a pot of pretty yellow pansies which
Janet takes home because Hughes isn't allowed live plants or fresh fruits.

Wed. Nov. 7 - Youngest son Sam, daughter Jamie, and friend Peter come to visit.
Janet, Sam, Jamie, Peter and Charcoal all wear masks so not to give Hughes germs.
Hughes has orange sherbert for lunch.
Frozen lemon, lime, orange, and raspberry are now Hughes's favorite foods.

Mon. Nov. 5 - At an afternoon oncologist visit, Hughes is admitted back into the hospital due
to chemo side-effects concerning his kidneys.
Many thanks to the facilities crew for installing a railing on the back stairs.

Sat. Nov. 3 and Sun. Nov. 4 - Many meds, morning doctor appointments for
vitals and a shot, a little food, lots of sleep, and a few visitors. 
Much thanks to neighbor Paul for helping Hughes get up the back stairs on Sunday.

Fri. Nov. 2, 2007 - Hughes is released from the hospital and
sent home with more than 12 prescriptions to be filled. 
Many thanks to the wonderful nurses and staff of Roper Hospital.
They really do care for their patients at times like these. 
Many thanks to neighbor Beth for helping carry Hughes' things into the house.

Tues. Oct. 30, 2007 - Hughes is diagnosed with small cell lung cancer.
This is a very aggressive cancer. 
Having had the cancer less than 6 months it has
already spread to his liver and lymph nodes. 
For more info on small-cell lung cancer see the link below.
Chemotherapy was started that evening followed by two more nights of chemo.

Mon. Oct. 29 - Bone Scan
very painful - had to lie flat on back for 20 minutes -
can not lie flat on back without being in extreme pain.

Fri. Oct. 26 - Liver Biopsy

Tues. Oct. 23 - Hughes is admitted to the hospital for what
was thought to be a relapse of pneumonia.
Symptoms:  weight loss, severe back pain, and coughing up blood.

Hughes at the end of Folly Beach Pier!
July 9, 2008

Field trip to the beach - July 9, 2008
Hughes, Elisabeth, and Janet
Do we have a color theme going here or what?

October 2007 - Before daughter Jamie arrived

October 2007 - After daughter Jamie arrived  -
she adopted Charcoal from the hospital gift shop
(and found Hughes a hat for Halloween)

Richmond Drive House in 2002

Hughes and Janet's house in Rock Hill, SC
is in the beautiful tree-lined quiet
Richmond Drive Elementary neighborhood
 

This used to be a screened-in porch.

Your webmistress wonders....
do construction workers purposefully bring all
that red dirt in or does Rock Hill just have red clay "soil"?

There were bushes in front of the house...
that's okay they were ugly anyway.

---------------------------------

10/8/08 - And he's up! 
Notice Charcoal on the bed - Jamie is
bringing Charcoal a present from Rock Hill today!

10/14 Update - Charcoal, Hughes, and the
nurses did not like the present - it has been
taken back to Rock Hill and replaced with a
small stuffed mouse.
The rejected present, by the way, was a
mechanical cat that meowed, purred, and moved.

Janet with Hughes at the hospital.

At the doctor's office - Wed. Sept. 17.

Simon and Sullivan -
Hughes and Janet's latest additions to the family
will soon celebrate their first birthday!

Praying for