Friday, July 8, 2016

Still Here

Gee, I just want to say that you all are the greatest.  

It seems like when I'm at my lowest and I haven't posted in a while, so many of you send me an email to ask how I'm doing and hope that I'm okay.  I know I've said it a thousand times before but I want to thank you all again from the bottom of my heart for your thoughts, prayers and concerns.  I wish I could put into words how much I appreciate each and every one of you who takes the time to read my blog and stay in touch.

I have debated whether I should mention anything at all but because of your expressed concern and loyalty, I've decided that you you deserve an explanation as to where I've been and why I've been so quiet lately.

Those of you who have been following me for a while know that I was diagnosed with cancer six months after moving to Nova Scotia back in 2010.  About a year and a half later in August of 2013 and after extensive chemo and radiation, the bones in my left hip fractured as a result.

To make a long story short, I've had two failed hip surgeries on the same hip simply because the bones in that area are too weak making it virtually impossible to attach the necessary apparatus that would keep my hip together. Because of this, the next surgery will involve bone grafting, something that I hope and pray will never happen.

The hip surgeries left me with my left leg being about 1cm shorter than my right leg.  1cm might not seem like a lot but when it comes to the body's physical structure, it's enough to throw one's back and lower spine out of alignment which accounts for the excruciating pain that I've been living with on-and-off for the last 3 years.

The last couple of months have been a nightmare.  I've been housebound for the most part because I can't stand erect for more than 30 seconds at a time, nor can I take 10-15 steps without my legs giving out.  If I didn't have my walker to support me, I wouldn't be able to do even that because I have no feeling in the bottom of my feet.  Sitting doesn't bother me but I have to get up and "walk" around at least once an hour because I'm afraid of blood clots.

I don't know what I'd do without Mr. Painted Quilt.  He's my rock and I rely on him to do virtually 98% of the things I used to do around the house which both he and I now realize was a lot.  My "disabilities" have put a lot of stress on both of us and for this I ask you to keep us in your thoughts and prayers.

With the help of pain meds, I have managed to get the pain under control which is a huge blessing.  Next, we have to find the cause of the swelling and lack of feeling in my lower legs and feet.  My doctor seems to think I'll be admitted to the hospital some time soon in order for them to do more "work-ups".

Needless to say, there hasn't been too much happening on the quilting or sewing front.  Last week I did manage to make a couple of placemats using fabrics from my "A Vintage Autumn" collection for my couldn't-have-asked-for-better next door neighbors, Charlie and Martha.  Two more wonderful and caring people you'll never meet.



And that's my story.  I'm sorry to have burdened you but as I said above, I think you warrant an explanation.

I'll try to keep you posted as things develop and as I'm able.



Happy stitching!

104 comments:

Carolyn said...

My heart goes out to you. As one who stopped blogging several years ago because chronic pain from shingles has made my life a challenge, I know how it feels to try to control the pain and to have to watch your partner do almost everything you used to do. Although my husband is very willing to do it and I do what I can when the pain allows it, I can't get past the feelings of guilt that he HAS to do it, that I physically can't. I pray that I can get past that some day. In the meantime, I'm grateful. I will keep you and your husband in my prayers.

JoyD said...

I will keep you in my thoughts.

Paula said...

I will keep you my prayers and heart. Hugs to you and your husband.

barcord said...

So sorry to hear of all your suffering. You are a great positive example as you never grumble. Praying that you will get help with pain and mobility. God Bless you and Mr PQ the angel.

barcord said...

So sorry to hear of all your suffering. You are a great positive example as you never grumble. Praying that you will get help with pain and mobility. God Bless you and Mr PQ the angel.

Marge said...

Thank you for sharing your struggles with us. Now we know the reason for your recent silence. You are brave, you are strong, and you have been blessed with an awesome husband in Mr PQ. May God give you strength and pain free days!

Linda - Behind My Red Door said...

Kaaren, I am so sorry! My dad also had failed hip surgeries as well and his leg on one side was inches shorter than the other side. I saw the struggles and I know they aren't easy. I so hope your doctor can get to the bottom of the other problems and find a way to keep you more comfortable and active. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs, Linda

Pam in IL said...

So sorry to hear you're having so much pain. You & Mr. PQ are in my thoughts and prayers.

Marie said...

I'm so glad you posted Kaaren, I've been concerned about you, rest assured, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Nice to have you back.

http://thankfullga447 said...

I am glad you told us, life isn't easy prayers is what is needed.

Dee said...

Thanks for the catch up. I presumed that you were keeping busy, sorry to hear of your ongoing medical issues. I found your blog just before you moved, hard to believe that it was so long ago. Keeping you in my thoughts

terriquilts said...

Reading this with tears in my eyes; I am so sad you must deal with this. We've never met, but I feel like I know you from following your blog for years and enjoying the many patterns you have so generously shared with us! I pray that the doctors will find an answer for you and that you will feel better soon.

Sydney said...

My heart goes out to you. You have been and continue to be in my prayers and thoughts! I have MS and understand that constant pain and weakness. I hope they find an answer for you and some relief comes soon. God bless you both! Your placemats are adorable!

paulette said...

Oh my gosh...I was so sorry to read this! My heart goes out to you, Kaaren! I am hoping that they can get to the bottom of everything so that you will be back to your old self! Big HUG being sent your way!
Pxo

Laura said...

Kaaren - So sorry for all your troubles and pains. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and pray that things get better for you soon. Hugs to you!

Karen said...

Just yesterday, I was thinking that you hadn't posted in a while and wondering if any more fabric lines were in your future. You have had a lot of pain to deal with and many health concerns. I hope there is a solution so that you can get up and round easier and doing some of the things you love to do.

Kaylene said...

I have wondered why we haven't heard from you. You don't burden us with your news. We all worry & wonder what is up. My prayers for you & Mr.PQ, that soon you'll be able to move forward and feel so much better. Please keep us posted on how everything is going. God Bless...

Bonniedoo said...

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Chris said...

You've been thru so much, Kaaren. Has hip replacement been discussed? Sometimes we wonder just how much pain we can cope with before we break. Aren't we fortunate to have husbands who have so much caring and love for us.....

Denise in PA said...

Dear Kaaren, I am glad to share your burden in some small way, so I can keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you healing and peace, and strength for you and Mr. PQ. Many hugs.

Polly said...

Hang in there, Kaaren! Be patient with yourself and the doctors as they try to find out how to make you healthy again. I'm glad the meds are helping with the pain. Many healing prayers coming your way. God bless you and Mr. P!

Sheila said...

I am so sorry to hear this news , I hope that things will improve and you can get back to the things you love to do like create beautiful quilts . I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers .

Carole Y. said...

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

My father had one leg shorter than the other and he always asked the shoemaker/cobbler to install a thicker sole and heel to his shoe.

Carole Y

Janet O. said...

Oh my, Kaaren, there are certainly plenty of challenges you have faced over the past few years. Sorry to hear about all that is facing you right now, but I am certainly glad you have shared it with us. When we unite our faith and prayers good things can happen, whether it be physical healing, or strength to overcome.
I am glad to know that you have good, caring neighbors. What a blessing!
Mr. P.Q. will be in my prayers, too.
God bless!!

C said...

Dear Kaaren....Thank you so much for the explanation - it is appreciated. You are such a trooper to deal with these issues, but I have always respected your clear view on the world and know it will serve you well here. The journey of our lives sometimes take paths that are not anticipated but none the less - they are still journeys that we travel. This may sound so trivial, but try to focus on the small joys around you and continue to share your journey with those in your heart! Hopefully, we can all share any burdens that come and also the joys and blessings too! 'Thinking of you with much respect and caring, every day. Thanks, Chris

Wendy Caton Reed said...

Oh Kaaren, I am so sorry to hear of all this. I too will send my prayers to you. I am wishing you every happiness and for all this to end on a positive note very soon! Take care!

Anne said...

I'm so sorry. I can't imagine what you're experiencing, but I realize it's both an emotional and physical struggle after reading your post. Thankful for your supportive hubby and sweet neighbors. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Unknown said...

I love your post and watch for them so I too was worried about your health. So sorry you are having these problems. My prayers are with both of you. Please keep us posted you are like an old friend to us by now. Thanks for sharing. Take care friend.

tink's mom said...

Prayers are with you. Nothing beats a wonderful support system. Bless your husband and neighbors. Keep reading, your blogger friends will do what they can to keep your spirits up. It's what they do.

Rosie said...

I'm so sorry to hear of all the challenges you're going through. I enjoy your blog immensely and always look forward to seeing what you're up to. Hopefully, your quilting can give you some relief from dealing with your health issues. It is such a blessing to have an attentive and helpful husband and caring neighbors.

Donna-Maree said...

Sharing isn't a burden and when you can't be doing what you would normally be doing, you sometimes have to do more of the things that you can do which maybe blogging. It is good to hear that the meds are getting things under control as that can be a tricky thing. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband as you work through this situation. Take care and heal well.

Sheila said...

Sending all good thought to both you and your husband.

Susan Kane said...

Quilts lift one up. When I look at my stash, my brain swirls away from my own pain. Even if I don't make one just then, certainly those fabrics will thrill someone else.

There are no words adequate to give you comfort, but I will pray for you. I promise.

Grandma Judy said...

Praying for healing and good thoughts to lift your spirits too.

piecefulwendy said...

I'm so sorry to hear this, Kaaren. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. Keep us posted, so we can encourage you when you need it. :) Wendy @ piecefulthoughts.com

celkalee said...

Dearest Kaaren, I suspected that your health was being problematic. I am so sorry for your troubles. Knowing the strain of prolonged illness from a professional level I know it takes strong people to continue to live their lives in spite of the illness. My good thoughts and prayers go with you and Mr. May you find relief your pain and limitations soon. Good friends and neighbors are priceless.

manos de chicureo said...

I'm sorry for what you tell us. I did not know what was happening to you. I will include you in my night prayers so that you and your husband have more strength and courage to continue fighting with that horrible disease.
A hug,
Yasmin

Nancy in IN said...

Lord, hear our prayers for Kaaren and Mr.
Glad you let us know.

Nancy in IN said...

Lord, hear our prayers for Kaaren and Mr.
Glad you let us know.

Unknown said...

Prayers for you both. I don't know what I would have done without my Mr. when I had cancer treatments. Thank you for your explanation.

Anita said...

I love you post, I love you quilts!! Praying you will heal soon.

Lesley said...

Kaaren, positive thoughts, prayers, and virtual hugs will continue to be sent your way. Hope the medical folks can help you sort this out and find a way for your days to be much less challenging and much more rewarding. Take care...

Jacqueline said...

Prayers and hugs coming your way.

Patti L. said...

I am so glad that you posted all that you are going through. I have followed you for many years from upstate NY to our move to NM! Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you...Take care of yourself :)

dmf said...

Kaaren - thanks for letting us all know. Hope you find help for your pain, and your health improves quickly.

Needled Mom said...

You have been through so much, Kaaren. I will be keeping both of you in my prayers.

lej619 said...

My prayers and thoughts going out to you and your family

WoolenSails said...

I am sorry to hear you have been going through so much and you are in my prayers.

Debbie

Carole said...

Keeping you and your husband in my thoughts and prayers. Take care of yourselves.
Carole in Arizona

Debra G said...

I am so very sorry to hear of your health issues. I will hold you and your husband in my prayers. I enjoy your blog; you are so generous with your talent and creativity. I pray you will find some relief from the pain and can enjoy simple activities again, Debra In Virginia

Donna B said...

My first time to leave a message. ....... Sometimes silence isn't golden especially when it comes from someone that we have grown to love and admire. Your generosity and sharing of Mr. Painted Quilt, Ollie,and Frankie have become one of our "families". Thank you!!!! Your sharing is not a burden. Praying that God will bless you and yours.
Donna B.

MoeWest said...

Hi Kaaren, I hope your upcoming medical workups can come up with a way to improve things for you. Have you considered a custom orthotic to compensate for the 1 cm. difference in your leg length? Best wishes from Calgary

Glynis said...

Thinking of you Kaaren and I hope that you feel better soon.

Brenda mb said...

Sorry to hear about your medical problems,I hope they get to the root of your problems soon.

PatriciaLud said...

Sending positive thoughts and prayers your way. Best wishes improvement in every way.

margaret said...

so much you have been through I will keep you in my prayers and hope they will find some answers to the lack of feeling etc and be able to help you, so good to read you have such a supportive husband who has taken on the chores for you. It is good to read you have found something that is dealing with the pain which will make life a little easier for you bless you

Karin said...

Thank you for your update. I will pray for you. Take care.

Unknown said...

I think of you. take good care of you!

suz said...

Thank you for letting us know what's been happening. I'm so sorry to hear what you've been going through. I have arthritis in my knees and that's a difficulty, so I can only imagine what you are dealing with. You're so lucky to have your husband to help. Hopefully the doctors will find a solution for you. Just take care of yourself and we'll keep sending warm thoughts and prayers.

Susan said...

Keeping you in my prayers.

DebbieM said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your hubby, Kaaren!🙏🏻

Helen Bowie said...

Hi Kaaren,
I am so sorry to hear of your health issues. Nothing worse than nerve and back, leg, spine pain. It is like a toothache and effects your entire being. I will say prayers for you my dear, you are so talented it is not fair. You should be enjoying your new line of fabrics and whipping up a storm of new projects. Hopefully the medical society will be able to help you this time. Take care and know you have lots of people thinking and praying for you.

Deborah Smith said...

I know you will rise up again, as you always do, to create, share and motivate those around you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Judy said...

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you will soon be able to make some more beautiful things.

Tina said...

My husband has very similar health problems like yours, and I know what a challenge it is for both of us to work through these 'new' things as they arise, sometimes on a day-to-day basis. It certainly changes the roles we once had. I work very hard in finding laughter in the littlest things every day and in staying as positive as possible. Sending you and Mr Painted Quilt a BIG HUG and keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

moosecraft said...

Sending you both prayers and hugs!

Barbara in TN said...

Thank you for the update on your health problems. Please don't think you are burdening "us" with your problems - that's what friends are for - and I'm sure I speak for thousands of your 'online friends' when I say this - friends!
Hopes and prayers going your way!
Barbara in TN

gracie said...

Thank you for sharing...I care. Sorry you are having such a rough time. I send hugs to Mr Painted Quilt for being strong for you...and of course hugs to you for being who you are. You are in my thoughts often.....

Katie said...

There is no burden. I look forward to hearing you are having some relief and success in treatment. Best wishes! :-)

Melody A. said...

thank you for being courageous and just telling all of us what you are suffering with. I am positive that prayers and good thoughts being put out in the universe help us all with life's hardships. I know everyone who reads and comments and even those who don't say anything are wishing and praying that you will be well. Hugs to Mr. Painted Quilt and you.

The Prairie Stitcher said...

Kaaren--you're in my prayers. Hope you feel better soon. I'm going to add you to my prayer list at church. Many prayers can never hurt. Hope you're able to be sewing again soon.
Jan/WI

Sherry said...

Thank you for sharing and letting us know how we can pray for you and Mr Painted Quilt.

Jeanine said...

Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers hoping you are feeling better soon!

jackie said...

My you have been through the wringer. Thank you for sharing. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Charlotte said...


Kaaren, I feel so bad for you. I know that you are an upbeat person but this sounds like it has put you over the edge and rightfully so. I will keep you and your husband in my thoughts and prayers.

With that said (and I have no medical background), have the doctors considered neuropathy for the "no feeling" in the bottom of your feet? My friend went through chemo for breast cancer and now suffers from neuropathy.

Hoping for positive outcomes,
Charlotte

T Holzer said...

Yikes, that's more than enough, heh?? You bet that I will keep you in my prayers, Kaaren. I'm glad to have discovered you through the FW quilt along!! Take care.

LoriCR said...

Kaaren, thinking of you, you are in my prayers. You have been through a lot. I am confident the docs will be able to sort everything out. Thanks for letting us, your followers, know. Lori

Carolie said...

Oh Kaaren, you have endured so much. You exude such strength; you and Mr. Painted Quilt are real inspirations. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Justamom65 said...

Sending prayers for you and Mr. Painted Quilt, may the pain be eased and your heart filled with hope.

Lori said...

Praying for you both!

Eileen said...

Kaaren, I am so sorry this has happened! I was born with one hip higher than the other and now the higher (right) one is deteriorating. All you can do is one day at a time, maybe some handwork from your fellow Nova Scotian, http://faeriesandfibres.blogspot.de/ would tickle your fancy.

Take care, you'll be in my good thoughts and prayers.

Linda said...

Kaaren, thank you for sharing, sending healing 'Hugs' your way with tons of good thoughts and prayers to you and that very special 'Mr Painted Quilt'!! Your updates are always appreciated, take care .........

basketnut said...

Hugs....

Tammy

Sandra said...

Le deseo lo mejor para que se recupere, mucho ánimo y fuerza, un gran abrazo desde Tenerife.

Beverley said...

My thoughts are with you and I hope very much that you get better very soon. Bev. x

Sharon Brown said...

You will be in my thoughts and prayers, Kaaren, and I pray your health improves. God bless you and your hubby, and those kind neighbors. I am sure many friends wish they lived closer so they could help out and I am one of them.

Unknown said...

You have always been such an inspiration to me and as you travel through your challenges you continue to inspire me in yet a different way. May the coming months bring you less pain and more comfort.

Regina said...

Just wanted to leave you a note to let you know that you are in my prayers.

Sandy said...

So sorry to hear this but praying they will get you up and running soon. Hang in there!!!

joan said...

Oh Kaaren so sorry to hear your are not well. My prayers are with you and please know if there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate to call. We are not that far from one another. I miss you! Hugs

Carole said...

I am so sorry to read this! (((Hugs)))

Quiltgal said...

I am generally just a lurker but I want you to know you are in my prayers.

Sew Create It - Jane said...

So sorry to hear that you are in such pain. I'll be keeping you in my thoughts! ((Hugs))

Heartsdesire said...

I've loved your blog from the first time I saw it: pictures of Frankie and Ollie, wonderful Civil War quilts, your recipes, and your flower garden at your old house. I hope you will be able to keep posting, and that your health will eventually improve. It's so hard to keep positive thoughts when life is not treating you as you would expect. I'm sending positive thoughts and prayers your way and hoping they help. If you can sit comfortably, maybe you could do some knitting and put the quilting on hold for a while. Stay strong, you have a lot of people in bogland that are cheering for you.

Patty said...

you are my go to Blog! I hope your on the mend soon.

Kate/Massachusetts said...

I've been thinking about you a lot, saying lots of prayers for healing for you and Mr. PQ, and hope things are getting better! Please let us all know if there is anything we can do to help...'

Rina Spina said...

So sorry to hear this! I follow your blog since you moved in Nova Scotia, although I don't post comments it's a pleasure to me read your blog , you are such an amazing lady and always I have prayed for you and your health. I'm still praying and learning from you.
Greetings from Catania, Sicily.
Rina.

Rina Spina said...

So sorry to hear this! I follow your blog since you moved in Nova Scotia, although I don't post comments it's a pleasure to me read your blog , you are such an amazing lady and always I have prayed for you and your health. I'm still praying and learning from you.
Greetings from Catania, Sicily.
Rina.

Rina Spina said...

So sorry to hear this! I follow your blog since you moved in Nova Scotia, although I don't post comments it's a pleasure to me read your blog , you are such an amazing lady and always I have prayed for you and your health. I'm still praying and learning from you.
Greetings from Catania, Sicily.
Rina.

Puri said...

Espero que su salud se vaya recuperando. La tendré presente en mis oraciones.
Un fuerte abrazo desde Barcelona (Spain)

Cindy said...

Kaaren, I just today found your site and I love it! You are so talented and generous. I have only been quilting for about a year (I'm 58!!!) so hope I live long enough to use most of the fabric I've inherited from my mother and given to me by my sisters!

I am so sorry to hear of your physical problems - please know that I will keep you in my prayers.

Lesauri said...

Hugs Kaaren, Prayers coming your way, Hope all is going well for you.

Bonnie said...

Haven't heard from you in a while now...just beginning to worry. Hope you are feeling some better...

roccagal said...

Big hugs and prayers for you fear Kaaren