Shauna is sharing about her Cancer Journey on Facebook. I decided to save all of her posts for her.
About half way through her journey she and Jeff came up with this clever summary:
During the pandemic I've fallen among cut throats (port placement), been disemboweled twice, been poisoned 4 times (chemo), almost bled out (4 hour nosebleed), been ballooned and burned (in nose), been stabbed and bagged (ileostomy), and irradiated multiple times (CT and MRI).
3/24/2020
3/24/2020
This is the second most difficult post I have ever written. Those who have been my Facebook friend for more than 3-1/2 years will remember the most difficult post was when my beautiful Cassie died suddenly. Today the post is about myself.
On Saturday, March 14 I went to the ER with abdominal pain. They did a CT scan and found a tumor in my colon and 2 lesions on my liver. I had a colonoscopy today so the doctor could see it, and the tumor is almost completely blocking my colon at the top of the descending colon. Because of the danger that it will close off completely, and the growing numbers of corona virus cases about to fill the hospitals, the doctor strongly recommended doing a bowel resection tomorrow (cutting out the bad section then sewing the cut ends together). I don’t know what time the surgery will be yet, but it will be sometime tomorrow (Wednesday).
Everyone I have already told asks what they can do to help. I don’t need much right now, except for prayers! I have a strong belief in the power of prayer and in the goodness and love of God! I know He is with me always! Please join your faith and prayers with me and my family. I am so grateful for your support! I will post updates as I get more information.
3/25/2020
I’m getting ready to leave for the hospital in a few minutes. My surgery will start at about 1:30-2pm today. Thank you to the multitude of well wishes and prayers! I feel the love and strength from you! 
I have hope and faith that things will go well! 
I’m praying that angels will be watching over me during surgery and recovery.
I have hope and faith that things will go well! I’m praying that angels will be watching over me during surgery and recovery.
3/26/2020
My surgery was successful and I finally “woke up” from the anesthesia enough to write a post. 
I’m feeling ok now, with some mild pain. The anesthesiologist did a few nerve blocks so that the initial pain would be lessened and it seems to be working! The doctor had to remove my whole transverse colon, but she was able to sew the two ends back together.
I’m feeling ok now, with some mild pain. The anesthesiologist did a few nerve blocks so that the initial pain would be lessened and it seems to be working! The doctor had to remove my whole transverse colon, but she was able to sew the two ends back together.
I can’t thank you, my friends and family, enough for all your faith and prayers as I go through this challenge! Please keep the prayers coming as I go through recovery and chemo!
I won’t be able to have the PET scan for a few weeks, and that will tell me how much the cancer has spread. Sending love to you all!!!!!!
3/27/2020
Recovery update
I’m still in the hospital, but went for a walk in the hall today. I also was moved from clear liquid diet to full liquid diet. I’m able to keep my pain to a manageable level. Thanks again for the many prayers! I feel loved and strengthened by them! Sending lots of love to you all!!
3/28/2020
Saturday update:
My pain is decreasing and I get to eat regular food today! I’m hoping to go home tomorrow. All the prayers have helped immensely! Thank you!!
All the prayers have helped immensely! Thank you!!
3/29/2020
Sunday update:
I get to go home today!!!! I’m feeling stronger every day 
. I’m so grateful for all the medical providers that have helped me on this journey, and for you, my friends and family, that have been praying for me!! I will take several weeks to recover from surgery then have a PET scan and start chemo. I love and appreciate each of you for your support!!
. I’m so grateful for all the medical providers that have helped me on this journey, and for you, my friends and family, that have been praying for me!! I will take several weeks to recover from surgery then have a PET scan and start chemo. I love and appreciate each of you for your support!!
I’m happy to report that I’m home!!
. We did practice social distancing and stayed 15 feet away (that was hard!).
Ammon Gruwell and Jamie Lynn Gruwell
were waiting for us to arrive. They decorated the front yard and brought us dinner. We did practice social distancing and stayed 15 feet away (that was hard!).
Josh Gruwell and Lauren Jo Gruwell also left cards, door decorations, treats, and the poster picture board. I love my family so much!!
3/31/2020
I had a hard day today, but my faith in God and his love remains strong!
4/3/2020
My recovery from surgery has been slow and painful.
I was feeling intense abdominal pain yesterday afternoon and was too dizzy/ lightheaded to get to the car, so we called for an ambulance to get me to the hospital. Several CT scans were done but nothing serious was found, so it was chalked up to post op pain. I’m on the way to see my surgeon right now. Thank you for the continued prayers!
Update:
While in the surgeons office, I suddenly got intense chest pain that was unbearable. I had to go to the ER again to get checked out (3rd time in 3 days). They said it was NOT a heart attack, thank goodness. They want to admit me for observation, though, since my symptoms are getting worse. I’m not sure how long I will have to stay. Please keep up the prayers!
4/5/2020
Sunday update:
I’m still in the hospital but doing a little better! I haven’t had a pain episode since yesterday morning and my blood counts have stabilized, although my hemoglobin is running low. I hope to go home this afternoon! Thank you to all who have been praying non-stop for me!! I feel very blessed to have such amazing and supportive family and friends!!
The next plan is to have a PET scan on Wednesday morning, then meet with my oncologist the following Monday to made a plan for treatments going forward.
4/7/2020
Tuesday update:
I’m feeling quite a bit better now!! No more episodes of terrible pain, and no need for pain pills other than Tylenol. I’m so grateful to be feeling better! I also found out that I was approved for a one month leave of absence from work. That will give me time to heal and rest. I will have a PET scan tomorrow morning and hope to get the results by the end of the week. Thanks to everyone who has been praying for me—the prayers really help!!
4/9/2020
I just got a preliminary result from my PET scan—nothing showed up other than what we already knew about!!! I’m so very grateful!! I will meet with the oncologist on Monday to discuss the treatment plan. Thank you for the many prayers—I feel so blessed!!
4/13/2020
I had a video meeting with my oncologist this morning. She recommends that I do 3 months of chemo then have surgery to remove the tumors in my liver. I will have an MRI of my liver this week and also have a port put in. Chemo starts next week. Please continue to pray for me that the treatments will work and that my side effects will be minimized. I so appreciate the love and support of all my dear family and friends! I do continue to have faith that God is in control and things will work out according to His plan for me!
I do continue to have faith that God is in control and things will work out according to His plan for me!
4/14/2020
I needed this today as I prepare for chemo to start next week!
4/16/2020
I found out today that my first chemo treatment will be on Monday morning at 10 am.
I also learned that Jeff will not be allowed to be with me during the treatment due to corona virus restrictions . I will have my port installed tomorrow in preparation for chemo.4/18/2020
A beautiful uplifting message for these trying times!
4/20/2020
I’m at the infusion center getting the anti nausea medicine first. Since this is my first treatment, Jeff is allowed to stay with me after all! It is a tender mercy!
Also, yesterday, instead of stressing about chemo today, Larissa went into labor and had a baby girl last night! My whole attention was on her all day. I was able to participate digitally by phone during the delivery and it was such a blessing to me! Little Lumina Anne Wiscome was born at 9:19 pm and is 7 lb 9 oz and 21-1/2 inches long. She is perfect and beautiful! Pictures to come later.
I was able to participate digitally by phone during the delivery and it was such a blessing to me! Little Lumina Anne Wiscome was born at 9:19 pm and is 7 lb 9 oz and 21-1/2 inches long. She is perfect and beautiful! Pictures to come later.
4/21/2020
Introducing our newest grand daughter, Lumina Anne Wiscome! She is precious and perfect! I can’t wait to kiss her sweet face! Congratulations to Gentry and Larissa!
This was posted on the 21st by one of Shauna's Chaplain friends: Peggy Ayers
I think about my other dear friend
Shauna Gruwell
who is usually the one chaplaining others be it our grief group, her family, neighbors or her patients. Now she is in the fight of her own life. Thanks for shining your light 
no matter what you are facing. You are my hero through & through in all you do!!4/25/2020
I broke quarantine for the first time in 6 weeks to get some much needed “medicine” (kisses from/for grandkids)! My mental status is much improved!!
4/27/2020
I met with my liver surgeon today and he gave me lots of good information about my liver resection surgery. It should take place in early August after I complete 6 rounds of chemo then rest for a month. I have 4 tumors in my liver currently, two of which are very small. The biggest tumor is 3.4 cm and is located in the top right corner. The next largest one is in the top left corner. He will need to remove about 60% of my liver, basically the top half. It will be a major surgery with a large incision. I knew that the liver regenerates, but was surprised to learn that it does so very quickly—about 85% regeneration in a week.
The surgeon was very encouraging, saying that my 5 year survival likelihood will be more like 50-60% if the surgery removes all of the tumors. I like those odds better than the 20% survival rate that goes with stage 4 colon cancer.
5/4/2020
I want this with all my heart, too!!
5/5/2020
I had my second chemo infusion yesterday morning and it was better than the first. No nausea or vomiting this time because they doubled up on the anti nausea meds. A few of the other side effects are worse this time, though. There is something called “first bite” that I get when I first put food in my mouth. It hits in both jaw joints right below each ear. It is similar to the pain you sometimes get when you eat something sour, but way worse for me. Also I had the weird sensation of my tongue being temporarily paralyzed for about 30 minutes, making talking very challenging!
My energy is definitely lower, but not horrible. I’m still going on walks around my neighborhood. My white cell count was quite low before the chemo, so I will get a shot tomorrow that will boost my count for next time. If it goes too low the chemo will have to be delayed by a week. I was right on the borderline this week. Overall, it has been ok this week! Thank you for all the love, support, and prayers from all my family and friends! I continue to have faith that I’m in God’s hands!
5/6/2020
God will carry us through our hard times!
5/10/2020
Happy Mother’s Day to my sweet and beautiful Mom!!! We don’t live near each other anymore, so I won’t be able to celebrate with her today, but she has been my unfailing support all my life and especially now as I battle cancer. I love you, Mom!!!
A sweet memory from my angel daughter!
Cassie Gruwell posted this May 10, 2015
A mother's love is the best kind of love. Happy Mother's Day momma!!!
#imstillyourbaby
Posted by her daughter, Larissa Wiscombe for Mother's Day:
Happy Mother’s Day to my sweet, beautiful, strong mother,
Shauna Gruwell
. She has been the most wonderful mother I could ever ask for. She has loved me and taken care of me my whole life without a single complaint. She puts her whole heart and soul into her role as a mother. Not only does she love and take care of her own children and grandchildren, but she extends that love to everyone she knows. I can only hope to become a mother like her!
I got to spend time with Ammon, Jamie, and the boys today for Mothers Day.
We had a picnic on the back porch, read stories, and started putting together a swing. It was a wonderful day with lots of the best “medicine”, kisses and hugs from grand babies!
5/11/2020
I needed this memory today!
5/12/2020
This week should be a good week for me! The chemo side effects are fading so I have a week to feel semi normal
. Last week was pretty rough. I’m going to request a reduction or even elimination of the one chemo drug that causes the most trouble (oxaliplatin). Hopefully my oncologist will agree.
I got the news today that my employer is going to extend my medical leave of absence for a full year, with the option of returning earlier if I get medical clearance. I’m grateful that they will let me return to my original job when I’m healthy. They have been so kind and supportive of me!! I only worked there for about 2 months before I got the cancer diagnosis.
I’m going to put my full focus on getting better! I’m implementing many lifestyle changes and learning all I can about cancer. I’m meditating, praying, and working on changing my diet radically—no meat, dairy, sugar, or processed foods (this is a work in progress). I ordered a juicer that should arrive in a week or so. Hopefully these changes will help me heal!
5/17/2020
We celebrated little Ethan’s 2nd birthday today! It was a great boost to me as I prepare for chemo #3 tomorrow morning.
Tough guy Isaac!
5/25/2020
Jeff and I did our annual Memorial Day visits to family graves today. Jeff diligently cleaned off each headstone while I offered moral support
. Ammon and Jamie were with us at Cassie’s grave. Their two oldest kids were at their other Grandparents house today, so Ethan was the only kid with them.
5/27/2020
More bad news today—I have some blood clots in my right arm. It has been hurting for about a week. I got an ultrasound today to check it out. I really hate blood clots, for obvious reasons! I’m at the oncologist now to see a doctor and get some treatment.
Note: the doctor put me on Xarelto, a blood thinner pill. With our family history, this may be for life. I’m grateful that I don’t have to do the daily Lovanox shots instead of the pills!
5/31/2020
Jeff and I went to a poppy field in Highland with Ammon Gruwell, Jamie Lynn Gruwell, and their boys. It was beautiful! It was already dusk when we got there, but I was still able to get some good pictures.
6/3/2020
Posted by Aldine Allen
My daughter, Shauna Gruwell , is back in the hospital again. She was experiencing excruciating pain in her abdomen this morning. Her doctor ordered a CT scan, which showed what looked like air in her abdomen. Apparently, when she had her surgery to remove her tumor, they said the colon tissue was very thin, which was concerning. They think it has developed a hole and is allowing air to escape into her abdomen. There is no infection yet, she is not running a fever. She may be having exploratory surgery tonight. Prayers would be appreciated!
6/4/2020
This is Jeff,
Here is an update on Shauna:
She had a small bowel perforation but they caught it early and the surgery went well. No complications even though she was on blood thinners because of the blood clot. It didn’t develop into sepsis. She is still pretty out of it on pain meds. today. She’ll probably be in the hospital for about 4-5 days. They had to install an ostomy bag this time. Thanks to everybody so much for all the prayers. They were very powerful and helpful. Much love to everybody. She appreciates all the love and support everyone is offering to her.
This is Shauna . I’m overwhelmed by the much love and many prayers from each of you!! Thank you so much!! I feel the love so strongly that I’m brought to tears! I’m sure that the many miracles that happened were because of all the prayers! My surgeons hands were greatly aided, the blood thinner I am on did not cause excessive bleeding, and I was protected from septic shock in spite of a bowel perforation. Thanks to God and each of you for your love and support!!
. I’m overwhelmed by the much love and many prayers from each of you!! Thank you so much!! I feel the love so strongly that I’m brought to tears! I’m sure that the many miracles that happened were because of all the prayers! My surgeons hands were greatly aided, the blood thinner I am on did not cause excessive bleeding, and I was protected from septic shock in spite of a bowel perforation. Thanks to God and each of you for your love and support!!
6/7/2020
6/7/2020
I had to have my second emergency surgery this week. The first was in March for an almost completely blocked colon. This one was for a bowel perforation at the site of the previous surgery. This time more bowel was removed and I was given an ileostomy, which hopefully can be reversed in a few months. I’m still in the hospital and having a rough recovery. I hate this, but I’m glad to be alive. Any advice on dealing with ileostomy bags would be appreciated!
6/7/2020
Posted by her friend Peggy Ayers
M A N Y prayers are being offered in your behalf beautiful friend. You are well loved & in the hearts of countless souls. Thanks for allowing me to share wmany prayer warriors as you battle this recovery. Love you
6/7/2020 4:11 pm
Latest update: I’m still in the hospital from my latest surgery to repair a perforated bowel at my last surgery site. The surgeon had to remove even more bowel and gave me a temporary ileostomy to let my remaining colon rest. It is a steep learning curve with lots of emotional trauma for me. I’m also having a lot of pain from a large incision. I hope to go home in a day or two, though. I’ve been blessed to have Jeff stay in the hospital with me this time.
I so appreciate the many prayers offered in my behalf! I know there are more than I will ever know! Please pray for relief from the intense pain and strength to endure this latest setback. I love and appreciate you all and I know there is much power in prayer!
6/10/2020
After a very long and painful week in the hospital, I’m finally going home!! My pain is decreasing and I’m feeling stronger bit by bit. It will be so nice to sleep in my own bed and not be interrupted through the day and night. I will have some home health and physical therapy support for a while, too. Thanks to everyone for all the love, concern, thoughts, and prayers!!!!
6/17/2020 Post from Peggy Ayers
She has encountered another set back this week & is feeling at her limit 
.
.
I thought it would be nice to SHOWER 
her with encouraging/love notes 
of ALL the reasons we need & want her to keep fighting!!
her with encouraging/love notes of ALL the reasons we need & want her to keep fighting!!
Ie: what memories stick out in your mind of her & the impact she has had on you & your family etc... DON’T hold back - let it GUSH out
Shauna needs fuel 
to keep holding on for the hours & days ahead that feel unbearable 
- SO LET’S SEE HOW MANY examples of Shauna’s love we can share to keep her spirits sparked w/hope & love. Who’s with me
to keep holding on for the hours & days ahead that feel unbearable - SO LET’S SEE HOW MANY examples of Shauna’s love we can share to keep her spirits sparked w/hope & love. Who’s with me
Pic: This is Shauna loving on someone in the hospital 
(true Shauna form) now it’s our turn to LOVE on her. You can also send a video to her as well:)
(true Shauna form) now it’s our turn to LOVE on her. You can also send a video to her as well:)
(permission from Shauna to post this fyi;)
I’ll start: this is a piece I wrote for our LDS chaplain group this week:
Sister Chaplains
There are times in your life when God places a soul so beautiful in your path you wonder what you did to deserve her. Shauna Gruwell is one of those souls. Shauna is a member of this chaplain group and together we attended our first chaplain conference last October with most of you.
Shauna is the type of friend you have for life. Her loyalty for me seared in my heart when we both attended a hot, steamy sweat lodge with our CPE group a few years back. I was looking forward to a special experience as my son had recently attempted to take his life and he - along with my husband - agreed to join us. When the heat turned up and the light was next to nothing, I panicked and excused myself. My PTSD from almost losing our son flared in my mind like wildfire. For the next two segments I sat outside the tent feeling defeated and discouraged wishing I had what it took to finish.
During the last break before the final segment, Shauna (in true chaplain form) offered me a place by her side. As we lied there snug as sardines in a can sucking the air from underneath the blankets, I knew she was an angel; my angel. The kind of guardian who sees someone in need and goes the distance no matter how awkward or uncomfortable.
Today she battles her own personal pressure cooker of surviving through stage IV colon cancer....
As chaplains we see suffering - a lot of it- but when it is happening to one of your own it feels different. Over the last year-and-a-half, I have been privileged to witness Shauna in her element over and over again. Shauna a hospice chaplain, also started an inspired senior grief group at the Evergreen Recreation Center. Her gift to sit in a sacred space of grief with people is remarkable. Many returned again and again because of the safe space she offers them to actively mourn.
We need one another, don’t we? I know I needed a friend on that hot, sticky steamy summer’s day outside the sweat lodge and God provided one in Shauna. We may have little control of how our stories end, but we may leave our imprint on how we endured the course. Shauna is enduring hers well, better than I would if roles were reversed. Yet no matter how well we face our trials, there is always room for tender mercies in the form of prayers. So please join me in offering up many for our sweet sister chaplain Shauna Gruwell, an angel among us.
Warmly,
Chaplain Peggy Ayers
After my six childrens’ father was killed last year, you reached out in love and continual support of me during that time. You felt more like a sister than a new friend. You gave me hope to keep living and striving for goodness.
To be honest, you have been a major influence in my life towards opening my heart back up to the possibility of a loving God.
Your spirit and joy and selfless kindness penetrated my hardened heart and made me hope again in the goodness in humanity.
Thank you for sharing your life with me and my children during such a difficult time for us.
I want you to know I love you.
Ask for the help you need and know you deserve all good things!
I am so sorry this is so hard. I pray for grace and healing and strength for you today and ahead.
Big hugs friend
6/12/2020
Well, being home has not been as good as I hoped. I ended up in the ER the night I went home with a 4 hour nosebleed. We were there most of the night. The next day I was so exhausted, that I slept most of the day. Today started out ok, but I spiked a fever of 102.8 in the afternoon, so , at my doctor’s direction, I’m back in the ER again. I may or may not be admitted again. It is probably related to the surgery. Prayers appreciated!
( they did a scan and did blood work. They couldn't find any problem causing her fever, so after about 4 hours they were sent home. Now, several days later she continues to have a fever off and on, but is controlling it with meds.)
6/13/2020
This is my son, and he would do an amazing job if elected! He has been politically active in various campaigns and causes for years. He is honest, kind, and intelligent. If you live in his district (Layton, Utah) you couldn’t have a better representative!
I needed this today!!
6/14/2020
I’m gaining strength little by little! I keep spiking a fever randomly, but then it goes away. I have three doctor appointments tomorrow and will know more after that. Thank you so much for the love and prayers!!!!
Thinking about you!!
6/15/2020
I had a busy day today! I met with my oncologist and she confirmed that chemo is on hold while I recover. She will consult with my liver surgeon, and I might not need more chemo before liver resection. No timeline yet, though. (Happy dance about no chemo for a while, at least!)
I then met with an ear, nose, and throat doctor, and he cauterized my nose where it was bleeding for 4 hours last week. It is painful, but I’m hopeful the nosebleeds will stop! (Another happy dance!)
Lastly, I met with my colon surgeon and had my 29 staples removed (ouch!). She is a little worried about my incision, so she put me on some antibiotics. I will follow up with her on Friday.
A special thanks to my friend Karen Brown who took me to all three appointments and even pushed me around in a transport chair so I could reserve my strength!! She is an earthly angel!! Jeff had his first day of teaching summer school today, so he couldn’t take me.
I’m so grateful for all the love and support from each of my friends and family! I’m still very weak and sore, but I can see lots of improvement and healing! Sending love to you all!
I think we're all doing a happy dance for you too! Much love. Mike Satter
Shauna, you are so faithful and valiant! And you are loved and sustained by many, many people. Thank you for your constant example of faithfulness, courage, and grace under fire. We love you and are all so blessed to have had you in our lives at various times and places. I hope you have a good day and even a better one tomorrow! May the Lord bless you with peace, comfort, and steady healing in the days ahead. With lots of love! Joe Tieman (former bishop from Texas)
Shauna, you are an amazing woman. I admire you so much. As always you are in my prayers. God is watching over you. Lots of, as one of your mom's favorite sayings, "Tender Mercies". Glad you don't have to go through chemo for a while. Give your body a rest. Love you. 💜💜💜 Toni Pardoe Ellsworth-Reid
I’m so glad your day included some hope for you, and confirmation that that your thoughts about next steps were in line with your oncologists. ❤️ Jayna Friberg Cleamons
6/25/2020
I’ve had some ups and downs since my last post. I enjoyed visits from my two sons and their families over Father’s Day weekend. That included 7 of my 8 grandchildren. Hugs and kisses from grandchildren are always a blessing!
On the down side, I’ve been feeling more weak and tired. My incision has two open spots that are causing me trouble. They are 2-3 cm deep. I got great assistance from the wound clinic at IMC Hospital, and I now have daily assistance from my home health nurse to do wound care. I will also have a wound vac placed in a few days which speeds healing.
Although I’ve been struggling with healing from this last surgery 3 weeks ago, I’m trying hard to stay hopeful I will get better soon! I also got the great news that I don’t have to have anymore chemo before my liver surgery, which will probably be in August. I just have to focus on healing right now, and not worrying about the next surgery.
Thanks to all who have been praying for me!! I’ve also been blessed by many calls, text messages, and service given to me by so many! I love and appreciate you all!! ❤️
6/29/2020
My daughter, Shauna Gruwell is in need of immediate prayers! She was not feeling well yesterday and had no energy. When the visiting nurse came she realized that Shauna probably had an infection in one of her open wounds again, as there was a large hard mass that felt hot. She already had an appointment this morning at the wound clinic, so they decided to wait and have it checked out today. While at the clinic, they contacted her surgeon who told them to have her go to the ER. As of today, only the patient is allowed in the hospital, so her husband can't be there to support her through all of this. She is discouraged, and scared! She is afraid she may have to have yet another surgery. Please pray for her!
Shauna's post
I went to a wound clinic appointment this afternoon hoping to get a wound vac attached. Instead, they sent me to the ER worried about infection. I’ve been sitting in the hall for over an hour waiting for a room to come available. It’s very possible that I may have to have another surgery 😥. I’ll post another update when I know. Prayers appreciated!!
Update:
The doc just came in and said that I don't need surgery after all! The CT showed inflammation from an infection but not an abscess. They will give me some IV fluids and an antibiotic, then I can go home 😊.
7/1/2020
I went back to the wound clinic again today and this time they did place the wound vac. It’s not painful at all, just annoying to carry around a machine everywhere I go, but I’m grateful to have quicker healing! On the down side, my new infection next to my stoma is looking worse and is still very painful. I’m on two antibiotics and will see my surgeon tomorrow. Hopefully it will resolve quickly!
Yesterday I went to my surgeon and she found that my infection had become an abscess and she drained it (extremely painful!). She suggested I get admitted to the hospital, but with Larissa Wiscombe and family arriving later that day, I declined. Instead she ordered IV antibiotics to be administered at my home.
Jeff and I then went to Ammon and Jamie’s house in Layton to celebrate a grandson’s 4th birthday. Larissa and Gentry came there from the airport and we had all the grandkids together for the first time! I had lots of tears when I got to meet little Lumina for the first time and hug my daughter again after 9 months apart!
While I was in Layton, my wound vac stopped working and couldn’t be fixed. I only had it attached 1 day! The manufacturer sent me a new machine that arrived at midnight and my nurse attached it this morning.
After a bumpy road yesterday, things are going better today! I have a little more energy and not much pain! Definitely an improvement!! ❤️
Seeing my daughter for the first time in 9 months.
[
All the grandkids together for the first time.
[
7/10/2020
I finally have an update with no bad news! I completed the IV antibiotics and my abscess is almost completely healed up! The new wound vac is working well. One of my incision wounds is making good progress in healing up, the other is about the same. I don’t have anymore pain, so no more need for pain pills! 🎉 I still have low energy, but it is improving a little each day. I started walking again and have worked up to walking around my block 😊. That’s actually a big improvement for me!
I’m following my doctors’ advice to eat lots of protein to speed healing and prepare for the next surgery (removal of half my liver). I had to go off the vegan diet to do that, so I’m back to eating dairy, chicken, and fish. I still try to avoid red and processed meats, and most sugar.
I meet with my liver surgeon on Monday and will hopefully make a plan for the liver surgery in August. I’m grateful to be headed in a positive direction!! Thank you for the love, prayers, cards, calls, and texts as I travel this challenging path back to health! I will never take good health for granted again! I love you all!!! ❤️
7/13/2020
I met with my liver surgeon this morning and he wants to do the surgery in about two weeks 😬. I have to have a chest CT and a liver MRI in the next few days to check for any new tumors that may have grown. My two largest tumors have shrunk quite a bit from the chemo, so I guess the torture was worth it! I will hopefully have my bowel reconnected in the same surgery (yay!). Because of the location of the tumors (2 at the very top) and the fact that I’m having two surgeries in one, it will be an open surgery rather than laparoscopic, so another lengthy healing process.
If you would please pray that I can be strengthened in preparation for this surgery, and also pray that I don’t have any more tumors show up on the scans, I would greatly appreciate it!! ❤️]
7/20/2020
I met with my colon surgeon today and she said that she was pleased with my progress towards healing! She also said that my next surgery is tentatively scheduled for August 4, so I have another two weeks to prepare.
7/30/2020
7/30/2020
It turns out that there have been some scheduling complications for my next surgery. It is really a double surgery (colon reconnection and liver resection), and the two surgeons involved had trouble coordinating. I’m now set for August 18. Hopefully this will not change again!
8/1/2020
Jeff and I went on an exploring expedition up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Albion Basin above Alta Ski Resort today. It was so beautiful! We went on a short walk through a huge field of wild flowers where I got most of these pictures. They must be at peak beauty right now! It costs $8 per car to get to this area, but so worth it!! 😊
4 views of the sunset last night as we were on an evening walk. Do you see the angel in the first picture? 😇❤️
8/3/2020
Jeff and I went on another exploring expedition today! This time we went up Big Cottonwood Canyon and walked around Silver Lake. It was so beautiful!!
8/4/2020
Pictures from yet another adventure! We drove to near the top of Millcreek Canyon and went on the first part of Big Water hike. Round trip I walked 1.25 miles! The only wildlife we saw was the spider 😬, but we saw lots of beautiful wild flowers!
8/8/2020
On Thursday we drove up Logan Canyon to Tony Grove Lake where we met up with family that was camping there. We had a delicious dinner with them then drove home after. Thanks to Rick and Cindy Hogan for letting us crash their family camp out!
8/16/2020
On Saturday we went on a hike with Ammon Gruwell, Jamie Lynn Gruwell, the 4 boys, and my good friend, Bonnie Humes. It was Rocky Mouth Falls Trail in Sandy. It was steep but beautiful! Afterward we had a picnic at Murray Park and celebrated Jeff’s birthday (which was Sunday). Saturday was also the 34th wedding anniversary for me and my Sweetie! ❤️
8/17/2020
My surgery is scheduled to start tomorrow at 1:45pm. I’m nervous but looking forward to getting it behind me! After the surgery I hope to be free of cancer and stoma! The surgery will be 3-5 hours long. I probably won’t be able to post anything until the next day. I will be in the hospital for about a week, and no visitors are allowed 😥. Prayers are greatly appreciated!! ❤️🙏🏻
8/18/2020
Today is Shauna's BIG surgery. She will have two surgeons working on her. One will reattach her small intestine to what is left of her colon, and the other will remove her gallbladder and 60% of her liver.
The following are the text messages throughout he day from Jeff as he received information from the doctors.
Mom,
They took Shauna back to surgery about 1:30. I was not allowed to stay at the hospital after that. They took my phone number to call me. I will update you when I hear something. We love you!!
️
They took Shauna back to surgery about 1:30. I was not allowed to stay at the hospital after that. They took my phone number to call me. I will update you when I hear something. We love you!!
Shauna's surgery to reattach her bowels went great the surgeon said. Her part is finished and now the liver surgeon is starting his part.
The liver surgeon’s nurse just called and said the surgery is going really well so far. They’ve removed some tumors and been able to have a positive result with cutting out margins around the tumors to get good cuts. They are still operating and it sounds like they have one more to go before the final procedures. They’ll update again in awhile. 
They got the last tumor and said she is all clear. 
They’ll spend about the next half hour closing her up and then Dr. Zendejas will call me and give me the full details.
The liver surgeon just called and filled me in on some details. He said he was able to successfully cut out with good margins and burn as needed 3 tumors and then also took care of a couple of swollen places. He doesn’t see any more cancer. He said the chemo-therapy reduced the tumors about 90%. He said Shauna has a beautiful liver and he doesn’t think she should have bleeding after having gotten her all sewn up. He said she’ll probably be in the recovery room for about 2-3 hours. She doesn’t need to go into ICU but will be going to the tenth floor where she’ll probably recover for about 4-5 days. We’ll have to see when we’ll get to talk to her sometime later tonight. I’ll let you know when I’ve been able to talk to her. Thank you for all of your prayers and support of us through all of this. 
🥰
8/19/2020
I finally woke up enough to post something! I haven’t talked to my doctors yet. According to what Jeff posted, everything went well! I’m still very groggy and.having fair amount of pain. I’ll give more info later this morning! Thanx for the love and prayers!!
8/22/2020
Thank you so much for the love, prayers, and support!! I feel like I “turned a corner” tonight, especially when talking about pain, and of the ability to move around! I’m feeling so much better, that I probably will get to go home tomorrow! The two complications I have had are more nosebleeds and coughing, but both have been less frequent tonight. I definitely have been lifted by all your prayers!
I’m home!!! I got home at about 1:45 then promptly fell asleep for about 4-1/2 hours! I’m hoping and praying that my recovery will go well from here! ❤️🙏🏻
8/27/2920
4 years ago
Today was supposed to be one of the happiest days of Spencer Dunlop, Cassie Gruwell, and my life! Instead we are all grieving the loss of my beautiful baby girl! 😢 it will be a difficult day, but we and our families will be in the Salt Lake Temple today anyway sealing together some of our ancestors families. I'm certain that Cassie will be with us!! And we will all gather in the temple again as soon as the sealing between Spencer and Cassie is cleared to happen! They will still be able to be together through the eternities!! I'm so grateful for temples where families can be sealed together forever!! ❤️❤️ I'm also extremely grateful that Cassie insisted on having her bridal pictures taken really early (3 months before the wedding) so that we have these beautiful pictures of her in her wedding dress!!
8/18/2020
I’m in the hospital and will be going into surgery shortly! Thank you for all the prayers and support!! I’m praying for angels to be with me! 🙏🏻😇
Shauna's surgery to reattach her bowels went great the surgeon said. Her part is finished and now the liver surgeon is starting his part.
The liver surgeon’s nurse just called and said the surgery is going really well so far. They’ve removed some tumors and been able to have a positive result with cutting out margins around the tumors to get good cuts. They are still operating and it sounds like they have one more to go before the final procedures. They’ll update again in awhile. 😃
They got the last tumor and said she is all clear. 🤗😃They’ll spend about the next half hour closing her up and then Dr. Zendejas will call me and give me the full details.
The liver surgeon just called and filled me in on some details. He said he was able to successfully cut out with good margins and burn as needed 3 tumors and then also took care of a couple of swollen places. He doesn’t see any more cancer. He said the chemo-therapy reduced the tumors about 90%. He said Shauna has a beautiful liver and he doesn’t think she should have bleeding after having gotten her all sewn up. He said she’ll probably be in the recovery room for about 2-3 hours. She doesn’t need to go into ICU but will be going to the tenth floor where she’ll probably recover for about 4-5 days. We’ll have to see when we’ll get to talk to her sometime later tonight. I’ll let you know when I’ve been able to talk to her. Thank you for all of your prayers and support of us through all of this. 😀🥰
Hi everyone,
A little less than a half hour ago they called me and left a message saying Mom was being moved to her room (room # 1015). I when I called back they said they’re getting her all settled in and she is currently sleeping. They said she is doing well. It was quite amazing one of the ways the Lord reached out in love for Shauna, when the hospital called, all at almost the same time I had the Bishop and his wife (Shauna's ministering sister) call on the phone, the Stake Relief Society President show up at the front door, and one of our ministering brothers texting me checking on Shauna. Really all at the same time! I think our Savior wants us to know that He loves and is caring for Shauna dearly!!!
8/19/2020
I finally woke up enough to post something! I haven’t talked to my doctors yet. According to what Jeff posted, everything went well! I’m still very groggy and.having fair amount of pain. I’ll give more info later this morning! Thanx for the love and prayers!! ❤️🙏🏻
8/22/2020
Thank you so much for the love, prayers, and support!! I feel like I “turned a corner” tonight, especially when talking about pain, and of the ability to move around! I’m feeling so much better, that I probably will get to go home tomorrow! The two complications I have had are more nosebleeds and coughing, but both have been less frequent tonight. I definitely have been lifted by all your prayers! ❤️🙏🏻😷
8/23/2020
I’m home!!! I got home at about 1:45 then promptly fell asleep for about 4-1/2 hours! I’m hoping and praying that my recovery will go well from here! ❤️🙏🏻
8/26/2020
More complications! 😥
I started having increased upper left abdominal pain, very similar to the abscess I had after my last surgery. My surgeon sent me to the ER for evaluation this morning. I went to the closest hospital (in Riverton) and was there all day. After a chest X-ray, chest CT, and abdominal CT, it was determined that there is not an abscess, but that there is a possible blockage at the reconnection site. I also have some pleural effusion in both lungs. This is fluid build up between the lungs and the lining of the lungs. This is probably a side effect of the liver surgery and means that I need oxygen full time for now. I was transported by ambulance to IMC Hospital about an hour ago. I possibly will have another surgery tomorrow 😥. Please pray that the fix will be simple and will NOT include a new stoma! Thank you in advance for your prayers and support!!!! ❤️
Update: no surgery today after all! They are just watching me to see if I have an intestinal blockage.
Such a beautiful message from a fellow cancer fighter! I had to share!
Post from Tiffany Studebaker Freeman
A year ago today, I woke up from anesthesia and was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. It’s been a wild year. And I’m certainly still recovering and learning from this experience in many ways.
Last year, on this day, we chose to celebrate LIFE with the kids after we told them about my diagnosis. Chocolate Cake and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off were the right choice that day, and we have decided to make a family tradition of celebrating life on this day - in that way - every year. Every day is precious now in a way that it never was before, and I thought I had always been fairly good at finding joy in the small things!
Sunday we went for a beautiful hike and discovered countless fungi in so many incredible varieties (Some of them pictured here. Apparently the White Mountains of Maine are a mushroom paradise. Who knew!?) In the past couple of years, I have read a few books about how fungi are both deadly/destructive to trees but also essential parts of their ecosystems and lived experience.
There were some weeks/months that I felt very angry at cancer and the things it took from me/mine. In these moments, cancer was only ugly and awful. (I still have the rogue day or hour where I let myself feel those very valid feelings.) But as I found myself geeking out over every mushroom on the trail this past weekend, I realized that cancer and fungi have much in common. Both are destructive, dangerous and deadly. But just like mushrooms help trees thrive and communicate and have a balanced ecosystem in simple/complex ways, cancer has given me many gifts that have made my life more meaningful and resonant and rich.
I often wish I could have learned all these things without cancer, but I’m not sure I can have it both ways. In the end, I wouldn’t trade trials with anyone. I know this is an important part of my story, even if it means that I will always be looking over my shoulder for cancer as I age. Turns out, fungi (or cancer?) are one of the most interesting things in the forest. They add variety to the experience and unexpected moments that matter.
One of the best parts of getting cancer was finding Colontown. I joined this online support group in the Autumn of 2019. This Summer, I completed their “Empowered Patient Leader” training course. I now work with Colontown to support others navigating Colorectal Cancer. The things I have learned in this organization, the people I have met and the strength it has given me is a gift that I don’t have the words to convey. I’m so grateful to be able to share with others a portion of what I have received. Colontown saves lives in more ways than one. Colontown is a big, beautiful and complex fungi byproduct that I carry in my pocket wherever I go. I feel very called to the work that Colontown is doing and if I had to get cancer to be qualified? Then I’m grateful for cancer too.
My takeaway: Mother Nature continues to teach me. Cancer is like a fungus. Not ideal but also beautiful and essential in unexpected ways. Here’s to another year of life and living and loving!
8/28/2020
Thanks to all those who have been praying for me!! No blockage was found! I get to go home from the hospital with no additional surgeries! God is Good!! ❤️🙏🏻
9/1/2020
I had a hard day yesterday! I was feverish most of the day (about 101 degrees) and had no energy all day. I went for a post op visit to one of my surgeons, and he decided to keep the staples in for another week 😥. Thankfully the fever broke during the night and I’m feeling somewhat better today! 😊
9/4/2020
I’m still having intermittent fevers, and my white blood cell count jumped up, so I’m on an antibiotic now. If this one doesn’t work, I’ll probably have to have IV antibiotics. I’m still fighting with pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs), too. Healing and post op recovery is never uncomplicated for me! With God and good doctors on my side, I’ll get through it! ❤️
9/6/2020
Thanks to everyone for the love and prayers!! I was started on IV antibiotics last night, so hopefully improvement is coming soon! ❤️
9/10/2020
I met with both of my surgeons this week, and they are both happy with my progress! I will have a CT next week to make sure everything looks good. I was very happy to get the staples removed! The pathology report from the surgery was also good—clean margins and clean lymph nodes! Technically, I’m considered NED (no evidence of disease) now, for which I’m extremely grateful!! I’ll see my oncologist in two weeks to discuss next steps.
9/16/2020
I have lots of updates today. I had an abdominal CT on Monday and the doctor said it looked great! My liver has mostly regenerated and no sign of abscesses.
On advice of my home health nurse, I went to the wound clinic today. I have three openings on my incision that don’t want to heal. Two will have to be packed to encourage healing from the inside out. I may have to have the wound vac again. Healing is never an easy road for me, but I’m trying to stay positive and hopeful! I’m grateful that I have so much medical assistance and so many prayers in my behalf!
I also talked to a genetic counselor today. Based on family history, she doesn’t think my cancer is from inherited gene mutations, but I’m going to have a thorough genetic test to be sure.
9/27/2020
I got a double birthday celebration this year! Last Sunday we celebrated at our house with Spencer & Maddie, Ammon & Jamie, and the boys. This Sunday we went to Josh and Lauren’s house. They made an amazing gourmet dinner with homemade beef Wellington! So delicious! I love my family so much!!
9/30/2020
I’ve had 3 doctor appointments this week already—colon surgeon, oncologist, and wound clinic. My oncologist is pushing for up to 4 more months of chemo to eliminate microscopic cancer cells, starting as soon as possible. I reluctantly agreed to do some chemo, but I don’t think I will go that long. (I do have to admit that my tumors were mostly killed off by the 2 months of chemo I already had.) I figured I would need to wait for my belly wounds to heal up before starting chemo, so I THOUGHT I would have a month or more to get used to the idea, but my wound Doc this morning said that I could start chemo right away. 😥 I’m nervous to do this as I believe the chemo caused my bowel perforation after my first surgery. I’m leaning towards waiting a few more weeks to get more internal and external healing done, first.
10/2/2020
I reluctantly called my oncologist yesterday to let her know that I have been cleared to start chemo. I found out two things that will slow down the start. One, my oncologist is on vacation for the next 12 days, and two, it turns out my iron/hemoglobin level is too low. They will have to get insurance authorization to give me an iron infusion next week to build it back up. Therefore, it will probably be a week or so before chemo starts, after all. God has me in His hands! Thank you all for the prayers in my behalf!! ❤️
10/8/2020
I’m at my oncology center getting an iron infusion today. I’ll probably start chemo next week. I also had an MRI of my sternum today at the request of my wound doc. One of my wounds is getting worse rather than better and it is right next to the low end of my sternum. He is worried that there may be bone involvement.
10/9/2020
I’m at my oncology center getting an iron infusion today. I’ll probably start chemo next week. I also had an MRI of my sternum today at the request of my wound doc. One of my wounds is getting worse rather than better and it is right next to the low end of my sternum. He is worried that there may be bone involvement.
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