For 11 months we provided updates about Carol to help friends around the world to share in her journey and support her in prayer. She ended her battle with cancer on Aug. 11, when she was peacefully ushered into the presence of Jesus.
We will provide this page for those who are only now hearing of Carol's passing and as a reminder for us to continue to pray for Rob, Kyle, Alissa, Ryan, and the extended family.
Many have asked about specific entries:
>> Audio recording of memorial service Aug. 18, 2006
>> Obituary link Aug. 14, 2006
>> News story from Daily Herald Aug. 16, 2006
>> Letter from Carol Jan. 3, 2006
Friday, August 18, 2006, 3:30 p.m.
Thank you all for your expressions of sympathy and support this week. What an amazing demonstration of love, service, and sacrifice.
God allowed us to honor the gift of Carol's life and bring praise to Him through her Memorial Service Wednesday evening and during the Prayer and Celebration Service at Wheaton Bible Church last Sunday. We are pleased to provide recordings of both services to you now.
Please continue to pray for Rob, Kyle, Alissa, Ryan, and their extended family. May each know and feel God's comfort, peace, and love.
Aug. 16 Memorial Service
Listen to the service.
For a free audio recording (CD) and/or video recording (DVD) of Carol's Memorial Service, please tell us what you would like and provide mailing information. Send that information to media@wheatonbible.org.
Aug. 13 Prayer and Celebration Service
Listen to the service.
For a free audio recording (CD) and/or video recording (DVD) of the Wheaton Bible Church's Service of Prayer and Celebration, please tell us what you would like and provide mailing information. Send that information to media@wheatonbible.org.
Thursday, August 17, 2006, 12:30 p.m.
More than 2,000 of us remembered Carol and praised God for her life last night at her memorial service. We know many more of you would like to have attended. Therefore, we will be making available audio and video recordings of her memorial service and the Aug. 13 Wheaton Bible Church worship service in the next few days on this page.
Rob, Kyle, Alissa, and Ryan shared a message in the memorial service program that we repeat here: "Words cannot adequately express how deeply our family appreciates the incredible love, prayer, and support given to us during the past year. Carol was a phenomenal woman, wife, mother, and friend. And, though we will miss her greatly, she is now complete, overflowing with joy in the presence of Jesus. Her joy is our joy."
Wednesday, August 16, 2006, 9:30 a.m.
Thank you all for showing your love for Carol and supporting the family by being a part of the visitation yesterday. What an outpouring!
Carol's memorial service will be held tonight at Edman Memorial Chapel, Wheaton College, at 7:00 p.m. Edman Chapel is located three blocks directly east of Wheaton Bible Church. If you can, we recommend that you park at our church and walk to Edman Chapel. Parking also is available behind the Chapel and along Washington Street. A reception will be held in Fellowship Hall at Wheaton Bible Church immediately following the funeral.
Yesterday, a local newspaper, the Daily Herald, ran a story about Carol on its front page based upon interviews with Pastor Rob and one of Carol's best friends, Joan Robbins. Many of you have asked for a copy. Here's a link to the article, "Fight with Cancer Shed Light on Little Joys."
Monday, August 14, 2006, 10:30 a.m.
Here is a summary of plans to celebrate the gift of Carol's life, share with the family, and bring praise and worship to her God and Father:
Visitation
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 3:00-9:00 p.m., at Wheaton Bible Church, Main and Franklin St., in Wheaton.
Memorial Service
Carol's memorial service will be held at Edman Memorial Chapel, Wheaton College, on Wednesday, Aug. 16, at 7:00 p.m.
Edman Chapel is located three blocks directly east of Wheaton Bible Church. Parking is available behind the Chapel and along Washington Street. You also might want to park at our church and walk to Edman Chapel.
Reception
A reception will be held in Fellowship Hall at Wheaton Bible Church immediately following the funeral.
Interment
Interment will be held privately at the Wheaton Cemetery.
Memorials
Memorials may be directed to the Capital Campaign at Wheaton Bible Church or Greater Europe Mission.
Obituary
Carol's obituary is available online at the Hultgren Funeral Home site.
Letter from Carol
This is a letter written by Carol to friends about her battle with cancer. It was referred to in Sunday's worship services, and we want those of you who haven't read it to get that chance. Carol's Letter
Saturday, August 12, 2006, 11:00 p.m.
24 hours ago Carol went to be with her Lord. Thank you for continuing to pray for Rob, Kyle, Alyssa, and Ryan.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 3:00-9:00 p.m., at Wheaton Bible Church, Main and Franklin St., in Wheaton.
Her memorial service will be held at Edman Memorial Chapel, Wheaton College, on Wednesday, Aug. 16, at 7:00 p.m. Immediately following the service, a reception will be held in Fellowship Hall at Wheaton Bible Church.
Interment will be held privately at the Wheaton Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to the Capital Campaign at Wheaton Bible Church or Greater Europe Mission.
Carol's obituary is available online at the Hultgren Funeral Home site.
Saturday, August 12, 2006, 7:00 a.m.
Carol was very peacefully ushered into the presence of her Lord on Friday, Aug. 11, at 11:04 p.m. Rob and the family were all with her at that time.
During the past 11 months, Carol never ran fearfully from her battle with cancer, rather she walked confidently through it to the end. Her confidence was always rooted in the promises of God's Word and in her belief that His ways are perfect. Carol never tried to control God, she simply trusted Him fully with every aspect of her life.
Just as Carol was always comforted by her knowledge of God's sufficiency, please pray that Rob, Kyle, Alissa, and Ryan will be comforted in the same way during the challenging days that lie ahead for each of them. Pray that they"and each of us"will claim the promise of II Corinthians 12:9, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
Message from the Board of Elders
"As a church family, our hearts and prayers are with the Bugh family after Carol's departure to her eternal home. We praise God for the time we had with Carol and the powerful testimony of her life of faith, courage, and love (I Cor. 16:13-14). Throughout her battle with cancer, Carol grew stronger in her love for God, her love for her family, and her love for Wheaton Bible Church. Even in her final days, Carol was a blessing to those around her. With limited voice and breath, she wanted to know what was happening at our church. She wanted to know about God's work among us. Now she is with her Lord. We are asking you to pray that God will comfort and guide Pastor Rob, his immediate and extended family, and the Wheaton Bible Church family as well through this time."
Jim Goetz
Chairman of the Board of Elders
We find comfort and hope from God's Word during times like this.
Expressions of support may be sent to rbugh@wheatonbible.org or to the Bugh's home at 0N661 Marion Ave., Wheaton, IL, 60187.
_______________________________________________________________________
Friday, August 11, 2006, 5:30 p.m.
Carol's health continues to deteriorate rapidly. She has been relatively non-communicative most of today. Rob and the family sense that she will transition to an even more seriously weakened state soon. Carol does appear calm and relatively pain free for which they are thankful. Please pray that God's will in this situation will be accomplished and that He will be the rock and refuge that the whole family needs at this time.
Thursday, August 10, 2006, 2:30 p.m.
Carol has been home for two days and has remained relatively stable health wise, however her condition is still extremely poor. She is awake a small amount of time out of each hour but is reasonably coherent during those times. She is receiving significant pain medication as well as IV fluids. Rob and the family are thankful for the hospice care that Carol is receiving and to be able to have her at home with them. Please continue to pray for Carol's relief from pain, her ability to rest comfortably and that Rob and the family will experience God's peace and wisdom as they care for her.
Tuesday, August 8, 2006, 11:30 a.m.
The doctors and Rob have concluded this morning that Carol is stable enough to be brought home by ambulance this afternoon. She has developed additional difficulty swallowing today, particularly if she tries to speak. Her voice is still only at a weak whisper level at best. They have arranged for hospice care and are very thankful that the two nurses that have been assigned to her care are from our own Wheaton Bible Church family. Please pray that Carol's transition home will be a smooth one and that the whole family will find comfort in having her home. Please also pray for Rob's peace of mind and clarity in decision making in the difficult days ahead.
Monday, August 7, 2006, 3:00 p.m.
Carol's health condition is still extremely serious but has been marginally stabilized. All of the medical efforts at this point are geared toward regulating her breathing and adequately managing her pain so that she may be taken home and cared for with hospice assistance. Please pray for the doctors" and Rob's wisdom as they make this decision and take steps to move in this direction. Please continue to pray for Carol's comfort and her relief from pain.
Saturday, August 5, 2006, 4:30 p.m.
Carol's situation has remained largely unchanged during the past twenty four hours. Please continue to pray that God will comfort both her and the family.
Friday, August 4, 2006, 4:30 p.m.
The doctors reported this morning that Carol lungs have cleared up somewhat over the past twenty four hours but she is continuing to struggle greatly to breathe. Her overall condition remains extremely serious. The chemotherapy she is receiving is intended to help with pain management. Please continue to pray for Carol's relief from pain and that Rob and their children will experience God's sufficiency for all of their needs at this time. The family is keenly aware of the world-wide prayer support they are receiving and are very grateful for it.
Thursday, August 3, 2006, 4:00 p.m.
Carol's health condition continues to be very serious. The time that she is awake and coherent is decreasing. She has begun a chemotherapy regimen intended to provide some additional pain relief. The doctors are monitoring the fluid build-up in her lungs as well as her breathing difficulties. Please pray for Carol's relief from pain and that Rob and their children will experience God's sufficiency for all of their needs.
Wednesday, August 2, 2006, 4:30 p.m.
Carol's health and strength has deteriorated significantly over the past 48 hours. Her breathing has become more labored due to some fluid around her lungs as well as a reaction to some of the stronger medications. She did have a procedure today to remove as much of the fluid as possible. The MRI that was done yesterday did show a tumor near her spine which will not be able to be treated until she regains some strength. If she is able, the doctors plan to begin additional chemotherapy tomorrow to try to slow some of the tumor growth. Please pray that Carol's pain can be managed and that both Rob and the doctor's will have wisdom in caring for her at this time.
July 2006
Monday, July 31, 2006, 2:30 p.m.
During Carol's doctor appointment this morning, it was determined that the pain in her right leg has both sufficiently limited her mobility and reached such intensity that she needed to be hospitalized immediately. The doctor is unsure if the pain is tumor related or possibly disc related. She will be undergoing a series of tests over the next few days to determine the cause and a treatment plan. She has also lost most of her voice again and while hospitalized, may receive the same injection she received two months ago to stimulate the nerves to give her some speech back. Please pray for the removal of the pain Carol is experiencing and that the doctors" will have wisdom as they determine the next steps in her treatment. Pray that Rob and the family will have meaningful peace that only God can give them during these uncertain and stressful days.
Friday, July 28, 2006, 4:00 p.m.
Carol has finished her fifteen days of radiation treatments and the doctors have continued to see shrinkage of the tumors on her neck. She is however, now dealing with several of the expected but unpleasant side effects of radiation. They include increased weakness especially as Carol is weaned from the steroids she has been given to bolster her strength during the treatment period. Recently some suspected tumor activity in her right hip and leg (the opposite leg that she had had radiation on in June), has limited some of her mobility. She will have a follow up doctor's appointment this coming Monday to discuss next steps in her overall treatment. Praise God for the partial shrinkage in the tumors on her neck. Please pray that the doctors who are treating her will have wisdom in determining a future course of treatment that will be effective.
Thursday, July 20, 2006, 3:30 p.m.
Carol had a follow up doctor's appointment on Tuesday to assess the initial results of the radiation treatments she is receiving. While it will not be known for some time what effect the radiation has had on the brain lesions, the doctor did observe some shrinkage in the tumors on her neck. She has also had a few days in the past week of feeling slightly stronger. She will have another follow up doctor's appointment in thirteen days near the end of the radiation treatments. Please pray that the treatments will be effective in both areas that are being radiated. Pray also for Carol's ability to endure the cumulative effects of the radiation that lie ahead and that the pain she experiences from other tumor activity would subside.
Thursday, July 13, 2006, 9:00 a.m.
Carol has completed three days of radiation treatments on her neck and brain. The major effect that she has felt from these treatments thus far has been greatly increased fatigue however some of the steroids she is required to take also deprive her of much needed sleep during the night. All of the tumor activity in her upper body continues to be increasingly painful and has caused her to struggle with increased nausea and swallowing difficulty. Please continue to pray that Carol can remain strong during the radiation treatments and that they will be effective in both areas that will be radiated. Pray also that she will be able to sleep better during the night time hours and that the pain she is experiencing would be minimized. Pray for Rob as he balances the challenges of being the husband and father that his family needs with the ministry leadership responsibilities that he also desires to carry on.
Thursday, July 6, 2006, 1:30 p.m.
Carol was released from Lutheran General on Wednesday morning and felt slightly stronger. However, as part of the testing she had undergone, a CT scan definitively revealed that there are five lesions on her brain that are cancerous. These are a likely factor for her recent sleepiness and disorientation. The type of lesions present are often treatable by radiation so today at Edward Hospital in Naperville, Carol was marked for the radiation she will now receive on both her brain as well as the tumors on her neck. The daily radiation treatments are scheduled to begin on Monday of next week and will last for three weeks. As was requested on Tuesday, please pray that Carol can remain strong during the radiation treatments and that they will be effective in both areas that will be radiated. Pray for the entire family's ability to rest in their knowledge of God's sovereignty and His boundless grace and love.
Tuesday, July 4, 2006, 9:30 p.m.
Carol was hospitalized at Lutheran General late Monday night. The admission process and testing lasted until approximately 3:00a.m. She was hospitalized due to the combination of a fever, the pain she was feeling from the tumors, some disorientation she was experiencing and a general weakened condition. She received steroids, blood transfusions, IV nourishment and oxygen throughout the day on Tuesday and as a result was feeling some relief later in the day. The doctors hope to release her on Wednesday and begin out-patient radiation treatment on Thursday at Edward Hospital in Naperville. Please pray that Carol can remain strong during the radiation treatments and that they will be effective. Pray also that Rob and the family will continue to have the strength, wisdom and mercy that they need while caring for Carol during these challenging days.
June 2006
Friday, June 30, 2006, 2:00 p.m.
Rob and Carol are very thankful for her ability to participate in 's wedding last Saturday as well as for the opportunity to see so many friends and family who have be praying regularly for Carol but do not live in the Chicago land area. She has been regaining some strength this past week while at the same time reducing her use of steroids that were necessary to take as part of the radiation treatments she had received on her leg. In a doctor's visit today, it was felt that because of their size and internal hemorrhaging, the tumors on both sides of her neck are in need of immediate radiation to try to slow or stop their growth. Her overall condition today was borderline for needing hospitalization but she was able to return home. Please pray that the radiation can be scheduled and started quickly and that it will have the desired effects. Pray also that the experimental medication Carol continues to take will work, that the pain she is experiencing throughout her body will subside.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006, 11:00 a.m.
Carol has continued to regain strength in her left leg as a result of the radiation treatments she has received. She has been able to be up and about more and without the use of a wheelchair. While the treatments have now ended, the radiation continues to be active and the full effect will not be known for another month or so. The tumor on her neck has continued to spread which the doctors feel is due to internal hemorrhaging and is being closely watched. The procedure that she underwent on her vocal chord two weeks ago has marginally strengthened her voice for which Carol and Rob are very thankful. They are eagerly anticipating 's wedding this weekend and the opportunity to be with family and friends from all over the country. Please pray that the entire weekend will be a time of joy for their whole family and that Carol will have the necessary strength to participate in all of the events. Pray also for the doctors" continued wisdom as they chart the best possible treatment course for her. Carol and Rob's ongoing prayer request is that amidst everything they are experiencing, God will continue to be glorified through their lives.
Tuesday, June 6, 2006, 9:00 p.m.
Carol successfully underwent the procedure today to relive the pressure on her left vocal chord and the doctor felt that all went just as planned. It will be a few days before the results will be fully known. Carol was then able to return home later today and is very thankful to be back with her family. The strength in her left leg continues to be limited but the effects of the radiation will also need time to be effective. She will continue to have the daily radiation treatments through next week. Carol and Rob are very thankful for the continual prayer support that they are receiving from friends and family and are trusting God for His strength in their lives day by day.
Monday, June 5, 2006, 9:00 p.m.
Carol remains hospitalized as her pain medication is being stabilized and she receives the daily radiation treatments for the tumor on her hip. To deal with the increased difficulty Carol has had breathing and swallowing, on Tuesday the ENT specialist will perform a procedure involving an injection to reduce the complications from the tumor in her neck. Please pray that this procedure will be successful and that Carol will be able to leave the hospital later Tuesday or Wednesday.
Saturday, June 3, 2006, 7:30 p.m.
Carol remains hospitalized as her medical team is treating the complications she has been experiencing due to the spreading cancer. What was thought earlier in the week to be cancer in the bone has now been diagnosed as a very large tumor in the hip muscle which is creating the weakness and numbness in her left leg. She has begun daily radiation treatments on the tumor that will last for the next ten days. Carol and Rob are hopeful that she can go home on Sunday or Monday depending on the effectiveness of her pain medication. They have also met with an ENT specialist affiliated with Lutheran General who will be prepared to perform a procedure to help ease the pressure of the tumor that has affected her voice but no date has been set for that procedure as of yet. Please continue to pray for Carol's relief from the pain she has been experiencing and that her doctors will have the wisdom to determine an effective treatment plan.
Thursday, June 1, 2006, 9:30 a.m.
Carol remains hospitalized to determine both the cause and best course of treatment for the acute pain in her left leg and lower back. The x-rays and bone scan done yesterday did show that some cancer has metastasized in her bones and lower spinal column which is the likely cause of her weak left leg; however, further testing including an MRI and CT scan today, will give them more definite information. Carol's doctor has concluded that they will start radiation in her lower back and hip areas to reduce the size of one known tumor. She has been receiving morphine to combat the pain and it has been effective. Carol and Rob are very thankful that she was able to sleep through the night last night for the first time in a very long time. In addition she was able to walk around her hospital room with less pain than she has experienced in more than a week. Please continue to pray for Carol's relief from the pain she has been experiencing and that her doctors will have the wisdom to determine an effective treatment plan.
May 2006
Tuesday, May 30, 2006, 8:30 p.m.
Carol and Rob met with an ENT specialist today and learned that Carol's left vocal cord has been paralyzed by the tumor that is pressing on it. It is possible that it can be repaired with minor surgery however they will need to see a different specialist who would actually be able to do the procedure. At the same time the tumor pain that is especially in Carol's left leg and lower back has become acute and constant over the past few days. During her follow up appointment today with the doctor who is monitoring the kinase inhibitor drugs, he required that she be admitted to Lutheran General immediately so that they can do x-rays and an MRI on Wednesday to further assess the tumor growth. Please pray that Carol will have relief from the tumor pain that is very prevalent throughout her body and that the tests on Wednesday will yield concrete information that will aid the doctors in treating Carol. Please also pray that the entire family will experience God's peace in the days to come.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006, 10:00 a.m.
Carol and Rob met with their doctor at Lutheran General Hospital on Tuesday and received the kinase inhibitor drugs. They were told that in several cases this particular clinical trial has yielded good results in slowing or stabilizing the cancer growth but not curing it. They were also told that there should be fewer side effects from these drugs compared to regular chemotherapy. Carol's voice continues to be at a whisper level likely due to tumor activity, and it has been recommended that she see an ENT specialist as soon as possible regarding possible treatment alternatives.
Please pray that the kinase inhibitor treatment will be effective and that Carol will also have relief from the tumor pain throughout her body. In addition, please pray that they will be led to the ENT specialist that God can use to help effectively treat Carol's loss of voice condition.
Friday, May 19, 2006, 3:00 p.m.
Carol has received the approval to participate in the kinase inhibitor clinical trial and this past Thursday had a baseline CT scan so that the doctors will be able to monitor her tumor reaction to the drugs. She is hopeful for an appointment early next week to actually receive and begin the drug therapy. Carol's voice continues to be at a whisper level only and while her throat itself is not sore, the tumors in the area of her neck are painful.
Rob and Carol are thankful for the positive response that they have received to participate in the clinical trial and that she has recently completed the three month period of daily blood thinning shots. Please continue to pray that once started, the kinase inhibitor treatment will be effective and that Carol will have relief from the tumor pain throughout her body. The entire Bugh family continues to hold tightly to the promise of Philippians 4:19, "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."
Monday, May 15, 2006, 5:00 p.m.
After more than three weeks, Carol and Rob have still not received the approval to participate in the kinase inhibitor clinical trial. They were able to speak to their doctor at Lutheran General today who is equally frustrated with the delay and is working as diligently as possible to expedite the approval. This past weekend Carol's voice was reduced to a whisper which is of concern due to the fact that some of the tumors on her neck have been persistently bothersome. She also has experienced some pain when coughing. The doctor wants to wait another day or two to determine if this condition is related to a virus rather than the tumors. Carol and Rob are thankful that she has not had a fever for over a week and she is able to stay hydrated with through the daily use of an IV.
Please pray that the approval to participate in the clinical trial would be received quickly and that the general pain Carol is experiencing and especially the pain in her neck and throat area would be minimized. Pray also for her increased strength.
Friday, May 5, 2006, 9:30 a.m.
During Carol's follow-up appointment last week with her melanoma specialist at Lutheran General, she and Rob learned that she was not a candidate for gene therapy due to the results of several of the lab tests that she had undergone. She is however, a candidate for a clinical trial involving a multi-targeted kinase inhibitor, (a type of drug therapy), that is intended to stabilize the existing tumors and keep them from growing. She is waiting for various approvals to begin this treatment. The newer pain medication that Carol has been taking has given her some relief especially during the daytime hours, from the pain caused by the tumors.
Carol has asked that people pray specifically for relief from the extremely bothersome tumors that continue to spread in her neck area and also that she will be approved and be able to begin the new drug therapy referenced above as early as today. Carol and Rob would also appreciate your prayer support as they balance the challenges of Carol's health needs with the joy of planning a wedding for their daughter . became engaged on April 27th and plan to be married on June 24th. Please pray that their whole family will be able to rest in God's abundant grace during a very busy next few months.
April 2006
Thursday, April 27, 2006, 7:30 a.m.
The appointment that Carol and Rob had on Tuesday with a melanoma specialist at Lutheran General Hospital went well. They discussed possibilities for both drug and/or gene therapy treatments that would be intended to stop the existing tumors from spreading. The treatment options that would be available will depend upon the lab results from tests that Carol had on Tuesday. She was also given a different pain medication that has been preliminarily more effective than her previous one. Carol and Rob are thankful to have learned that she may be a candidate for additional investigative therapies. Please pray that the doctor will have wisdom in recommending a course of treatment that will be effective.
Monday, April 24, 2006, 1:00 p.m.
Carol has had a few days of partial relief from the fever that she was experiencing over this past weekend, but it seems probable that the fever is more related to the growing tumors in her body rather than some other conditions that were originally thought to be the cause. She continues to be in constant pain from the tumors. Please pray for Carol and Rob as they consult with one of the leading melanoma experts in the Chicago area on Tuesday afternoon to discuss any investigative therapies that he might be aware of that Carol could try. Pray that they will sense God's presence and power with them both during and after the appointment.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006, 4:00 p.m.
Carol is continuing to experience a fever as well as constant pain from the tumors in her body. The doctors are considering a new antibiotic to ward off the fever as the current one does not appear to be working. She is relying on other medication to deal with the tumor pain and is receiving an IV treatment at home once a day in order to stay hydrated. Both Carol and Rob continue to spend considerable time researching the possibility of being part of a clinical study either through MD Anderson or the National Institute for Health, however there is a lack of current studies at this time that pertain to the rare form of cancer that Carol has. Rob and Carol continue to covet your prayer for the wisdom and patience that they need to pursue their medical options and for Carol's immediate relief from the fever and tumor pain she is experiencing.
Monday, April 17, 2006, 4:30 p.m.
From the latter half of last week to the present, Carol has had a fever and also has been dehydrated once again. This necessitated emergency room treatment on Saturday evening, April 15. After several tests, the medical team at Edward Hospital in Naperville is still not sure of the exact cause of the fever. Carol and Rob have spent the majority of today back at the hospital for more tests and for Carol to receive additional fluids. Please pray for the fever to subside, for her ability to stay properly hydrated, and for her relief from the increased pain caused by the tumors.
The medical team at MD Anderson continues to pursue the possibility of Carol receiving trial drugs as part of a clinical study, however the treatment itself and/or any related medical services that she may require would likely not be covered by insurance due to the experimental nature of the program. Rob and Carol ask for prayer that they will have the needed wisdom and patience in knowing how to proceed and that there would be a quick and positive resolution with the insurance company.
Thursday, April 6, 2006, 3:00 p.m.
Carol had her scheduled doctor's appointment at Edward Hospital on Tuesday and began the first of two rounds of chemotherapy. She received an infusion of one drug at the hospital and is now taking several other drugs orally for five consecutive days. She is experiencing some of the unpleasant side effects of the chemotherapy but is still thankful to be able to be receiving the treatment at home. Carol is also thankful to have been able to attend church last Sunday and walk outside a little more often. As was requested last week, please pray that the unpleasant side effects from the chemotherapy would be minimal to nonexistent and continue to pray for Carol's relief from the increasing pain she is experiencing from some of the existing tumors. Please also pray that amidst all of the uncertainty they are facing, Carol, Rob and their family will receive an extra measure of God's grace and peace.
March 2006
Friday, March 31, 2006, 1:00 p.m.
Carol is scheduled for her first of two rounds of chemotherapy beginning next Tuesday. The regimen will consist of receiving an infusion at Edward Hospital on Tuesday followed by five days of oral treatments. She will then have two weeks to recover before repeating the process. Please pray that the side effects from the chemotherapy would be minimal and continue to pray for Carol's relief from the increasing pain she is experiencing from some of the existing tumors.
Thursday, March 30, 2006, 10:00 a.m.
Carol and Rob received a mixed report from MD Anderson Cancer Center on Wednesday. After reviewing all of the tests that Carol had undergone last week, it was confirmed that the cancer has not spread into her vital organs but still remains in areas of fatty tissue only. This is an item of continued praise. However, because both the number of tumors and the size of some have increased, Carol will not be able to have the surgery to reconnect her colon. Instead, it was recommended that she receive two, three-week cycles of a different type of chemotherapy and then undergo the same battery of tests at MD Anderson that she just completed to reassess her situation. Carol will not need to be hospitalized for the two rounds of chemotherapy and will receive them at Edward Hospital in Naperville through a coordinated effort with MD Anderson. Please pray that she will be able to schedule and begin the treatments quickly, as well as for their effectiveness. In addition, since some of the tumors are very painful, please pray for Carol's relief from the pain and especially for her ability to sleep.
Friday, March 24, 2006 11:30, a.m.
Rob and Carol have been cleared to travel home today. She is feeling much stronger after receiving eight days of IV fluids and will continue the same process at home. Please continue to pray that early next week, the MD Anderson medical team will be able to determine a new and clear plan of treatment for Carol. Also pray for continued negative test results so that her follow-up surgery can be scheduled. Rob and Carol are thankful to now have their "resident nurse" back home and look forward to the medical expertise and physical assistance she will be able to provide.
Wednesday, March 22, 2006, 11:00 a.m.
Carol and Rob will remain in Houston at least through Friday of this week to continue the process of meeting with MD Anderson medical staff and undergoing the same regimen of tests Carol has had several times before to verify that the cancer has not invaded any of her vital organs. They have learned that the extreme weakness and fatigue she experienced prior to returning to Houston was the result of severe dehydration, which is currently being remedied. It also has been confirmed that the biochemotherapy that has been discontinued was not as effective as had been hoped and that other alternatives must be sought.
To that end, Carol's overall condition will be reviewed this coming Monday by a group of surgeons and oncologists to discuss alternative treatments. In addition, assuming that the cancer has not spread, they will consider scheduling her for surgery in early- to mid-April to reconnect her colon, which is a necessary step to ensure her eligibility for other types of treatments. Please pray for wisdom for the medical personnel who are evaluating and treating Carol's condition and especially for the meeting on Monday. Pray also that Rob, Carol and their children will experience a "peace that transcends all understanding" as they wait and trust God to direct their paths.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006, 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006, 10:30 a.m.
Carol arrived home on Saturday feeling better than she has after previous treatment cycles. She is in recovery mode now, trying to regain strength. Carol and Rob plan to return to MD Anderson Cancer Center next Thursday for the fourth round of biochemotherapy. Continue to pray that Carol will gain strength and that her nausea will stop.
Join the Wheaton Bible Church family tomorrow night at 7:00 p.m. in our Sanctuary for an all-church prayer meeting that will include a time of prayer for Carol and Rob.
February 2006
Monday, February 27, 2006, 5:00 p.m.
Carol is handling the third round of biochemotherapy that began Friday night, however she is struggling with the accompanying nausea. Rob and Carol continue to talk to their medical team about other treatment options.
Please pray that Carol will get over the nausea and regain her strength. Pray for wisdom as Rob and Carol and the doctors explore treatment options. Remember the whole family in prayer: Rob, Carol, Kyle, Alissa, and Ryan.
Friday, February 24, 2006, 9:30 p.m.
Carol and Rob were encouraged after meeting with her doctor today to review test results. He was positive, saying that her response to the treatment was in line with expectations. Specifically, some tumors are shrinking, some have almost disappeared, and a few are growing. Carol's vital organs are clear, as is her brain. In balance, her disease seems to be slowing.
Carol checked into the hospital tonight and she will begin the third round of biochemotherapy later this evening. The treatment is expected to last five days, she will rest for about two days, and then return home. Please pray that Carol will be able to tolerate the treatment and that it will be effective.
Thursday, February 23, 2006, 2:30 p.m.
Carol and Rob flew to Houston yesterday. Upon arriving at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Carol ran into complications with a hematoma in her upper left arm, near the area of the blood clot. As a result, she and Rob spent seven hours in the Emergency Room Wednesday night. In the process of dealing with the complications, the physicians discovered several more tumors. Carol is undergoing tests today and tomorrow to determine the extent of these and to evaluate her overall condition. Rob and Carol will be meeting with their team of doctors late tomorrow afternoon to review the results of the tests. Carol still is expected to begin the third round of her biochemotherapy on Friday.
This is not how Carol and Rob wanted to begin this trip. While the news has been discouraging, they continue to rest in God's love. Pray that they will be overwhelmed by the deep and refreshing hope and peace that only their Heavenly Father can give.
Monday, February 20, 2006, 3:30 p.m.
Carol is feeling stronger. She and Rob will be returning to Houston on Wednesday, Feb. 22, for the third round of biochemotherapy. Pray that Carol will continue to gain strength and that her bouts with nausea will subside.
During the past six months, Jeff Erickson, a close family friend, has been helping Rob and Carol in many practical ways during a time of career transition. He sees his availability as a gift from God. Rob and Carol describe him as an unbelievable servant. He has handled everything from travel arrangements to posting these messages. Weeks ago, Jeff learned that he too has cancer. He is undergoing cancer surgery this afternoon. Jeff is expected to be hospitalized at Central DuPage Hospital for about a week. Join Rob and Carol in praying that God will protect Jeff's body from infection and that he will have a swift recovery.
Tuesday, February 14, 2006, 10:00 a.m.
Carol was able to return home late Saturday afternoon. While traveling was physically very difficult for her, being at home is very comforting. Compared to her recovery from the first round of biochemotherapy, she is regaining her strength slightly faster this time around. The blood clot in her arm appears to be under control and she is tolerating the daily injections of blood thinner to ward off any additional clots. Please pray that Carol's nausea will subside and that her appetite will return so that she can continue to regain strength. The present plan is for Carol and Rob to return to Houston later next week for round three of the biochemotherapy.
Thursday, February 9, 2006, 4:00 p.m.
Carol was released from the hospital today (PTL), and is recuperating in Houston from her biochemotherapy treatment. Her vital signs were stable enough for the intravenous line to be removed and the doctors feel that the blood clot in her arm will be able to be treated. The blood thinner/anti-clotting drug Carol will need however, must be taken as an injection once a day for the next two to three months. As injections are not her favorite activity, please pray that she will both tolerate the daily pain and that the clot will respond to the blood thinner drug. The Lord willing, Carol plans to return home on Saturday, a day or two earlier than originally expected. Given the blood clot complication, she and Rob see this "early release" as continued evidence of God's grace and mercy. Please pray that her nausea will subside and that her appetite will return as well as for her easy adjustment to the daily injections.
Tuesday, February 7, 2006, 7:00 p.m.
Carol's reaction to the biochemotherapy she is receiving is slightly improved from her first round of treatment; however, nausea continues to be a persistent problem that in turn affects her appetite and overall strength. Late Tuesday afternoon, a blood clot had formed around the intravenous line in her left arm, through which she receives her drug treatments. In order for Carol to receive anti-clotting drugs, she must first be weaned off of one of her other biochemotherapy drugs 24 hours sooner than was planned (which will hopefully not have any negative consequence), and then have the intravenous line removed. The anti-clotting drug also requires that she have a specific blood platelet level and stable blood pressure, both of which have been less normal for her recently. Please pray that 1) that Carol's blood pressure and blood platelet levels remain stable so she can receive the anti-clotting drug, 2) that the clot does not become any larger or move, and that the drug will be effective is eliminating it, and 3) that the intense nausea Carol has been experiencing will subside.
Saturday, February 4, 2006, 8:00 pm.
Dear Family and Friends,
Finally after 2.5 months since Carol's surgery, we"ve received some good news again! Praise God! After an uneventful trip down to Houston on Friday (thankfully !!), Carol and I (Rob), saw Carol's doctor on Friday afternoon before being admitted to the hospital. Her medical oncologist was very excited about the results of the first cycle of biocheomtherapy. Prior to this treatment, he had referred to Carol's cancer as "galloping" because it was spreading so rapidly. Yet as a result of this first round of treatment, Carol's biggest tumors have shrunk significantly. The doctors said this is very positive and very unusual following just the first round of treatment.
We are not surprised. Over the last two weeks we have been overwhelmed by the depth and richness of prayers from the body of Christ. The prayer service for Carol was unbelievable. If God is choosing to turn this thing around, and we know that whatever happens we are in His hands, somehow Heaven will reveal that prayer played a decisive role. After all, Joshua prayed and the sun stood still.
Carol is on the threshold of a very difficult week of treatment; (yes" her shots will still hurt, nausea will accelerate, blood pressure will drop and the biochemotherapy drugs will hammer, pulverize and fry her body). Yet the encouraging news we received on Friday, will make the days go so much quicker. The pain is so much more palatable. Carol and I thank you for your amazing support. The body of Christ on its knees is a thing of beauty.
Living in His grace,
Rob
Wednesday, February 1, 2006 8:00 a.m.
Carol has been experiencing some good and some less positive days health wise this past week. She has regained some strength over the past few days and has been able to be slightly more mobile. The combination however, of strong side effects from the biochemotherapy as well as healing from her tooth extraction continues to negatively impact her diet and energy level. Please pray that she will be as strong as possible when she and Rob return to Houston this Friday for round two of the biochemotherapy treatments. If all goes as planned, she will again be hospitalized for five days of treatment and two days of recuperation. Kyle and Alissa are continuing to do a great job of managing the home front while plans to join her parents next week in Houston to help care for Carol. Please pray that this second cycle of treatments is clearly effective in attacking the cancer. It is an important step in determining the continued protocol for Carol's ongoing care. Please also pray that the entire family would sense God's protection and peace throughout the coming week.
January 2006
Saturday, January 28, 2006 2:00 p.m.
Carol and Rob are extremely thankful for all of the activities of last Thursday. They were aware of individuals literally all over the country and in foreign countries as well who were both in constant prayer on their behalf and also fasted throughout the day. The culminating event of a prayer service at Wheaton Bible Church on Thursday night was both inspiring and inspired. By the time the service started, the entire church was filled with people who prayed publically, silently or in small groups. In addition to corporate prayer, scripture was read and a cappella singing filled the sanctuary in worship and praise to God, the great physician, comforter and healer. Carol's tooth extraction on Friday was thankfully uneventful and they were particularly pleased to be able to extract the tooth in one piece. Please pray for her during this healing process and pray against any infection and for minimal pain. She has been able to be up slightly more than earlier in the week but needs to continue to gain strength prior to her return to Houston on Friday. Carol and Rob are totally humbled by the outpouring of love and support from the world-wide body of Christ and ever mindful of God's sufficiency, grace and love that they continue to experience during these difficult days.
Thursday, January 26, 2006, 3:30 p.m.
Monday, January 23, 2006, 1:00 p.m.
Carol was released from the hospital last Friday afternoon but had to return to the emergency room later the same night due to an abscessed tooth condition that had begun earlier in the week and was causing intense pain. The emergency room staff was able to start her on an antibiotic which is required prior to any dental or oral surgery work, however, any additional drugs and or medial/dental procedures she receives must be closely coordinated with the biochemotherapy treatment she is receiving through M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Carol was able to fly home on Saturday afternoon but is experiencing extremely strong reactions to the treatment she has and is continuing to receive. She is extremely weak and lacking in appetite for both food and drink. Rob and Carol have asked for prayer regarding three specific items. 1). Please pray that her appetite and physical strength increases. 2) Please pray that the nausea she is experiencing might pass; and 3) please pray that the dental work that is needed can be completed without further jeopardizing her health and biochemotheraphy treatment.
Thursday, January 19, 2006, 6:00 p.m.
It was determined this afternoon that Carol would not be released from the hospital because of a lingering fever and continued nausea. Please pray that these two conditions could be brought under control so that she might still return home before the weekend is over.
Rob and Carol are very thankful for the many ways in which their children have always sensed and been responsive to the Lord's leading but especially so since the onset of Carol's illness.
has been in Houston with Carol repeatedly over the past several months and is currently there helping care for her mom and then will accompany her back to Chicago. has made the decision to move back home from Denver early in March, live at home and continue her nursing career at an urban hospital in Chicago so as to be more available for her family.
As most know, although Kyle was ready to return to South Carolina for her senior year in college last fall, she changed her plans and decided to stay at home to manage the home front and care for Ryan. She has now transferred to Wheaton College and is a full time student this semester while continuing to live at home and serve as the one and only true "head of the household".
Alissa made a loving and selfless decision this past week to take the current semester off rather than returning to school in Arizona in order to help care for Carol, Ryan and Rob. Her presence will also free up some of Kyle's time that is now needed for school.
Ryan remains an active fifth grader focusing on basketball, the saxophone and his required academics when all else fails. He has been very patient with all of the changes going on around him and is growing up rapidly.
Please continue to pray for all of the Bugh children as their faith and trust in God is increased, while they support their parents and each other during this challenging time.
Thursday, January 19, 2006, 8:00 a.m.
Carol has completed her first round of biochemotherapy but is still hospitalized as she recovers from it. She will need to continue taking one of the oral drugs daily for several more weeks and is presently scheduled to return to Houston in just two weeks for a second round of the same regimen of biochemotherapy that she has just completed. Please pray for her rapid recovery from the uncomfortable and somewhat incapacitating effects of her recent treatment, and for her ability to return home this weekend. Please also pray that the drugs that she has received will be effective in stimulating her body's immune system to fight off the cancer. Rob and Carol have been encouraged this week by the words of the Psalmist found in Psalm 103 and are continuing to trust God for the healing touch He can provide.
Saturday, January 14, 2006, 5:00 p.m.
Carol has been able to tolerate the biochemotherapy she has been receiving the past three days, but has experienced many of the unpleasant side effects that were to be expected due to the intensity of the treatment. She remains on the same course that was planned, namely receiving treatment for the next three to four days prior to being released from the hospital and then spending some time in Houston recovering before she is able to travel home. Rob and Carol are very aware of and thankful for the continual prayer support they are receiving. They are equally thankful for both family and friends who are able to be present with them while they are in Houston.
Thursday, January 12, 2006, 3:00 p.m.
The tests that Carol has had the past two days have indicated that the melanoma has not infected any vital organs but has remained and spread in fatty tissue. Additional information from a radiologist is still pending. Carol has checked into the hospital to immediately begin bio-chemotherapy as opposed to the traditional chemotherapy she had been receiving. Bio-chemotherapy is designed to stimulate the body's immune system to attack the cancer cells and is more intense than the previous protocol. She will be in the hospital for seven days and continue oral chemotherapy for an additional 28 days after returning home. Rob and Carol are thankful for the information that they have received and for the new treatment she can receive.
Please pray that this new chemotherapy regimen will be effective. Today they are claiming the promise and comfort of God's Word as found in Psalm 62:1-2. They are thankful for the ongoing prayer support they are receiving.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006, 8:00 p.m.
Carol and Rob began their doctors" appointments and tests at 6:30 a.m. this morning in Houston and they are planned to continue until 10:00 pm this evening. The only thing that has been confirmed thus far is that the chemotherapy regimen that had been anticipated will not occur and a new course of treatment must be planned. They will learn what the revised plan will be during an 11:30 a.m. doctor's appointment on Thursday morning.
Please pray for their peace and comfort this evening as they wait for this new information.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006, 4:00 p.m.
Carol and Robs" plans have been altered even before they have arrived in Houston. Because Carol was experiencing pain today with any deep breathing, the doctors at MD Anderson have ordered a series of tests that will last both Wednesday and Thursday. At this time, her hospital admission to begin chemotherapy treatments will be delayed until at least Friday.
Please continue to pray for Carol's relief from the pain associated with both the tumors and her deep breathing, as well as for the doctors wisdom in correctly diagnosing and treating her.
Monday, January 9, 2006, 10:00 a.m.
Carol and Rob will return to MD Anderson on Tuesday of this week and Carol will check into the hospital on Wednesday for the same regimen of chemotherapy that she received in December. They especially covet your prayers at this time as the cancer in her body continues to be spreading more aggressively than expected given the extremely strong chemotherapy he is receiving. During the past week there have been additional tumors that have appeared and some are now becoming quite painful as well.
Please pray for Carol's relief from the pain, for her ability to tolerate the chemotherapy that she will be receiving and for it to be effective. Pray for wisdom for all of the medical personnel who are treating her. And finally, please pray that the entire Bugh family will experience God's rich and sustaining grace and mercy throughout every moment of the coming days.
Tuesday, January 3, 2006
Dear Praying Friends,
I want to thank all of you once again for your prayers. They have truly gotten us through the last few weeks. The time we spent in Houston was very difficult emotionally for our whole family. After such great news post-surgery, it was hard to go down and find that the cancer had spread, and was growing aggressively. There were many tears and much discouragement for all of us. But I want to share a story with you about what God did during that time to encourage us.
Rob and I talked a lot about our need for hope, especially toward the end of my chemo, and our stay there in Houston. I needed to grieve, and I had certainly done that, but I felt I couldn't stay stuck there forever. I was praying that God would give me hope. I had written in my journal that I needed courage, hope and strength; underlining those words. When we got back home the Wednesday before Christmas, I spent the evening going through the mail. I had received two books from people while I was gone. Both were on the subject of hope and both written for people with cancer! In the front cover of one of the books, the woman who gave it to me had written a note to me. She started by saying she was praying for me to have courage, hope, and strength--the exact words I had used when expressing my need. Have you ever wished you would get an email from God? I sort of felt like I had. Psalm 139:4 says: "Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord." God knew my need before I ever expressed it, and provided for me. The books have been encouraging, and I have enjoyed reading them, but they are merely reminders that our only hope is always in God. Whatever happens, God promises courage and strength for each day and incredible hope for our future.
I take great comfort in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
I believe God is able to heal completely, and he is also able to use our troubles for His glory. We can trust Him no matter what the outcome, that He will always love us and always be intimately involved in our lives.
Thank you for being there for us.
Carol
Dec. 19, 2005
Carol was discharged from the hospital last Saturday afternoon and has been recovering slowly from a very strong chemotherapy regimen. She still has a schedule of treatments to receive over the next seven days but can do so on an outpatient basis both in Houston and back home in Wheaton. Barring any complications, Rob and Carol will be able to return home on Wednesday of this week. At this time, it is planned that she will need to return to Houston toward the middle of January for the same routine of tests and treatments she has just received. Please pray for her continued healing and renewed strength as well as for Rob and Carol's safe travel home.
Dec. 16, 2005
Rob just called in. He wanted to thank all of you for praying. Carol has tolerated all the drugs but the side effects are huge. They are hoping she"ll be released from the hospital Saturday or Sunday; however, they will still need to stay in Houston to continue treatments on an outpatient basis.
Dec. 15, 2005
Carol has tolerated the first three days of chemotherapy she has received. While she has had some moderately uncomfortable side effects, the Doctors are encouraged by her ability to receive the high levels of chemo that she has been given. Carol has approximately six additional days left in this round of chemo before being able to return home. A determination will be made on Friday as to the possibility of her receiving the last five days of chemotherapy on an outpatient basis; however it would still have to be administered and monitored in Houston. Carol and Rob's prayer requests remain unchanged, namely that she will continue to be able to tolerate the drugs and that they will be effective in battling her cancer.
Dec. 9, 2005
This week in Houston, Carol has had extensive testing that has lasted a day or two longer than expected. She learned that melanoma has recurred in several parts of her upper body, primarily in fatty tissue. This is however, a more common and medically understood situation than some she has faced. All of her vital organs remain healthy and in tact.
As a result of this development, the originally planned chemotherapy protocol will have to be changed and will be significantly more aggressive than originally thought. She will have monthly cycles of a full week followed by several isolated days of chemo with some breaks in between. Because of the intensity of the protocol, her first two cycles will now require hospitalization during the first part of each cycle so that her reactions can be closely monitored and treated.
Carol and Rob have three very specific prayer requests at this time. First, please pray that she will be able to tolerate the three types of chemo she will receive especially since the one that caused a significant rash prior to her surgery, will now be given in a dosage many times greater than she originally had received it. Secondly, please pray that chemotherapy is effective in killing the cancer cells as has been the case in other patients. Thirdly, please pray for Carol's and Rob's emotional and spiritual strength while dealing with this undesired turn of events.
They are thankful that God has provided such an incredibly extensive prayer support network and are equally thankful for what they continue to feel is the best medical care they could be receiving anywhere in the world. Carol and Rob will come home on Saturday, before returning to Houston for at least nine days beginning this coming Monday morning. Please also pray for their traveling mercy and safety.
Dec. 7, 2005
Carol and Rob arrived in Houston this morning for her check-up appointments as well as to discuss the chemotherapy protocol she is to begin. Over the past two days however, Carol has noticed two small lumps on either side of her neck and today one more on her back. These are requiring additional tests (they plan on being at the hospital until 10:00pm tonight) to try to determine if/how they are associated with her cancer. Please pray for wisdom for the doctors that Carol is seeing and for emotional strength for her and Rob at this time. They are thankful to have had this happen while they are in Houston but are very concerned as well. They will not be able to return home on Thursday evening as planned. They would appreciate the prayer support of as many people as possible.
Dec. 1, 2005
Carol is continuing to recover from her surgery but at a fairly slow rate. Her Doctors have advised her however, that this is normal. She and Rob will return to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston next week for two days both for check-up appointments as well as to discuss her new chemotherapy regimen and starting date. Rob and Carol are thankful for the healing that has occurred and for the fact that Carol has remained free from any other illness. Please continue to pray for a renewed appetite as well as for safe travel and good reports from the Doctors next week.
Nov. 21, 2005
Carol and Rob were able to return home safely last Saturday afternoon, although the trip was very tiring for Carol. She is regaining her strength and appetite at a slightly slower than hoped for pace. She is easily tired by any sustained activity. Please pray for the continued increase of Carol's appetite as well as for her increased endurance and strength.
The Bugh's are looking forward to spending Thanksgiving at their home with all of their children as well as Carol's parents who are helping care for her during this time. Rob and Carol cannot express in words how grateful they continue to be for the countless and overwhelming expressions of support that they have received and especially for the world-wide prayer support. This Thanksgiving, more than ever, they are "praising God, from whom ALL blessings flow."
Nov. 15, 2005
Carol and Rob are very thankful that Carol was released from the hospital earlier this afternoon, although with some reservation on the part of one of her doctors. He continues to be concerned about the possibility of dehydration. Please pray that she will be able to eat and drink sufficiently to avoid this condition. At this time Rob and Carol are staying with Carol's sister who lives in Houston. The possibility of their returning to Wheaton this weekend will depend upon Carol's strength, the completion of several Doctor's appointments and follow-up tests by end of day on Friday and securing airline reservations. Please pray that God will lead in all of these matters.
Nov. 14, 2005
Carol and Rob have been both encouraged and discouraged over the past few days. After experiencing the worst day of pain on Friday/Saturday since her surgery, on Sunday Carol felt the best she has been since being hospitalized. The pain management team has been able to provide her with a combination of relatively narcotic free pain medicines that have helped ease the pain greatly. She has been able to walk up and down the hallways in the wing adjacent to her room with minimal support. The results of the pathology report from surgery were received on Sunday and were also very encouraging.
Carol's diet continues to be of concern as her lack of appetite is impeding the healing process. In addition, until her appetite increases she will run the risk of rapid dehydration. While the original hope was to leave the hospital today, she now may not be discharged until Wednesday or later this week. Carol and Rob also learned today that after being discharged, they should plan on daily home health care for an additional week prior to leaving Houston. (Rob's "new math" continues to count four to five days as equaling one week. It is unclear if the Doctor's count the same way.) Please pray first and foremost for an improved and continually strong appetite for Carol and for her corresponding discharge from the hospital as soon as possible. Pray that she will not be dehydrated at any time. And again, please pray for there to be no obstacles when they do attempt to make last minute air travel plans during the holiday period. Carol and Rob continue to feel that they are being carried through this entire experience by the love and support of the body of Christ and are very thankful for that fact.
Nov. 10, 2005
Carol experienced a twelve hour or so set-back on Wednesday due to very intense pain precipitated by the removal of one of the lines that had been placed in her body during surgery. A combination of three drugs was used to control the pain through the night and will continue to be used for the next two to three days. She was able to walk around the nurses" station four times today very slowly and with assistance. Her diet included some jello and apple sauce for the first time but her appetite is still very minimal. Carol and Rob are praising God for the definite answered prayer in her pain being brought under control yesterday and for the physical strength she has regained. Please continue to pray that the pain can be medically managed as well as for her appetite to increase and her corresponding ability to tolerate food. Carol and Rob are continuing to trust God for that which He gives them one day and often one hour at a time.
Nov. 9, 2005
Carol is progressing in slow but measured ways. She did have an improved night's rest on Tuesday night. While she was not able to walk last evening, she was able to circle the nurses" station outside of her room twice so far today and is aiming for four times before tonight. She has been transferred to a limited liquid diet today as well as "gourmet" saltine crackers. Carol's pain is being managed medically and is tolerable but still significant after the major surgery she has undergone. Please continue to pray for daily renewed strength and healing from the surgery as well as protection from any infection and blood clotting. Carol and Rob desire to be an encouragement and minister to all of the individuals with whom they are in contact. Pray for their effectiveness in doing so.
Nov. 8, 2005
Carol has continued to remain stable and strong in her recovery following surgery. She had a reasonably comfortable night and was seen by her team of surgeons this morning who were pleased with her progress thus far. She is alert, able to converse and has been able to sit in a chair and walk a few steps (both activities which then require much rest.) Rob and Carol continue to be very aware of the phenomenal prayer support that they have received and are extremely grateful for it. They are understanding and experiencing the incredible greatness of God's power and richness of His mercy day by day.
Nov. 7, 2005
Pastor Rob reports that the surgery "couldn"t have gone better." The two surgeons believe that they got all of the cancer. They describe the outcome as "incredible."
The surgery began at 10:00 a.m. and lasted almost five and a half hours. Carol is resting. She is expected to be in the hospital for a week. The family is doing great. Kyle and Ryan are now on their way home. is on her way to Houston. Many relatives and friends were at the hospital today.
Carol and Rob are so thankful for your prayers. They are very thankful for all God has done. In the last few days, they have been sustained by Psalm 31:14-15a, "But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." My times are in your hands" ."
The early verses of Isaiah 43 also have been comforting, "But now, this is what the LORD says " he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." Isaiah 43:1-2
Please don"t stop praying for Carol's recovery. Pray for the contacts they continue to make while in the hospital. Praise God for His grace and love.
Nov. 6, 2005
Carol's surgery has been confirmed to begin at approximately 9:00am on Monday morning and last until 3:00pm. She and Rob are thankful for having had a good weekend in Houston with some family members and are resting in the assurance of God's faithfulness and His sufficiency. Throughout all of her medical tests earlier this week (and even before they had the good news of the significant shrinkage of the tumor), Carol was claiming Isaiah 41:13, as her verse for those days. It says, "For I am the Lard, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you". Please continue to pray that Rob and Carol will hold God's hand tightly during the days ahead and receive His sustaining strength, love and grace. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the next update on this website regarding Carol's condition is planned to be on Monday November 7th, at approximately 6:00pm CST following the surgery.
Nov. 3, 2005
Carol and Rob are praising God today for His abundant and never-failing grace and mercy. After two days of extensive testing in Houston, they have received significant and positive information this morning. First and foremost, they have learned that Carol's cancer has not spread to any other detectable place in her body. They were also informed that the tumor has shrunk by nearly 60-70%. They heard her team of surgeons using terms like "unbelievable" as they reviewed her current test results and strong physical condition. The medical team observed that they have never followed the exact treatment protocol that they have taken with Carol, but based on the preoperative success, they will begin to use it with other patients. Other positive news is that her blood work shows a healthy white blood cell count and her chest x-ray shows that her lungs are clear. Her MRI brain scan also came back negative and the CAT scan yielded the good news noted above.
Carol's surgery is scheduled for Monday morning with the exact time still to be determined. At this point, the surgery is planned to be approximately six hours long. Carol will not check into the hospital until Monday morning. The doctors are requesting that following surgery, she remain in Houston for slightly longer than the one week time frame originally anticipated, however they have also confirmed that once leaving Houston, she will be able to receive the post operative chemotherapy treatments through Edwards Hospital in Naperville.
October 27, 2005
To my dear praying friends,
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39
I am so thankful for the truth of this verse. Although we have been surprised and shaken by my diagnosis of cancer, each and every day God shows us His love. He is not surprised, and He has shown us that by taking care of many things ahead of time for us. I want to share just a couple because these are reminders for me of how much I can trust God.
The cancer was initially diagnosed on Monday, August 22nd. The night before that on Sunday night, a woman in our church was awakened in the middle of the night and felt strongly that she needed to pray for me. She could not sleep, and studied her Bible (specifically Psalm 116), and repeatedly prayed for me, not knowing why, and in fact thinking she was to ask me to be a part of a ministry she was involved in. She called the next day, only to have Rob tell her that we were awaiting the results of the biopsy. This is not someone I know well, or that I even see very often, yet she was faithfully praying for me. I am amazed at God's ways--that He would have someone praying for me ahead of time, knowing what we would be facing the next day.
Another specific way God has shown himself is in regards to the men's Huddle, which is the men's Bible study at our church. Rob usually teaches this every Thursday morning at 6:15am. This year, for the first time ever, he had planned a study based on a video series, although he was going to personally do the teaching. When it became clear that we would be out of town so much, the video series was already in place, and ready to be used for the men's Bible study. This is so clearly God's provision.
I also want to say a most sincere thank you to every single one of you who has prayed for us. Thank you for every card, every verse, every meal, and both your thoughtful and generous gifts. We have been grateful for everyone who has so selflessly walked with us through this experience thus far. We would not be where we are spiritually, emotionally or physically without the body of Christ. You have upheld us in every way possible. I will never be able to say thank you enough. You have been the hands and feet of Jesus to us.
Our prayer requests for the coming two weeks are as follows:
Physically, please pray that I will gain strength and remain healthy prior to the surgery. Pray that the surgery would be successful, free from complications and that the surgeons" hands and minds would be guided by the Great Physician. Pray also for a speedy recovery and that the cancer will not spread.
Spiritually, please pray that we would be faithful servants of Christ and that our lives will honor Him in all we say and do through this experience. Pray that we will trust Him fully.
Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts for everything you have done and most importantly for your ever-faithful prayer support.
With my love and appreciation,
Carol (for our whole family)
Oct. 14, 2005
Carol continues to experience pain and discomfort as a direct side effect of the three weeks of radiation treatments that she has received. Her mobility continues to be limited. She is thankful that she has had some relief over the past four days from the side effects of chemotherapy. Rob and Carol are also thankful that the dates for her surgery have been finalized. She will return to Houston on November 1st for a series of preoperative procedures and the surgery will take place six days later on November 7th (the exact time is still to be determined). The length of her hospitalization is not known at this time. Please continue to pray for her protection from any infection and for renewed strength and mobility prior to the surgery. Carol continues to rest in the promises found in one of her favorite Psalms, namely Psalm 121 which expresses great assurance and full hope in God's continual and untiring protection over us both day and night.
Oct. 10, 2005
Carol and Rob returned home last Friday evening. Please pray for her relief from the ongoing effects of the radiation and chemotherapy treatments she had while in Houston. The radiation has significantly limited her mobility and increased the pain associated with movement. She is now also experiencing several of the unpleasant side effects of chemotherapy that she had been spared from up to this point. Please continue to pray that nothing would delay her planned surgery in approximately five weeks. The exact date still has not been confirmed. Please also pray that she will remain free from any infection prior to the surgery date. Rob and Carol are grateful to be at home and are very thankful for the outpouring of love and the consistent prayer support that they have received from so many people.
Oct. 5, 2005
After a second restart of Carol's chemotherapy on Tuesday and an almost instantaneous serious rash reaction, the intravenous chemo has been permanently discontinued and her picc line has been removed. Carol is however, able to continue one of the oral chemo treatments as well as the daily radiation. Please pray for her relief from the effects of the rash and that discontinuation of the primary chemotherapy would not negatively impact the intended effects of the radiation. Please also pray that the date of her planned surgery would be sooner than the possible six week wait that may be necessary due to the coordination of multiple surgeon's schedules. Rob and Carol are thankful that their housing situation for this week was resolved easily on Tuesday morning. They are continuing to claim the promise of 2 Corinthians 12:9; "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
Oct. 4, 2005
Rob and Carol returned safely to Houston on Monday and the rash that Carol had experienced last weekend had subsided. She received her radiation treatment and her chemotherapy was reinstated. This process however, took over six hours to complete before they went back to their hotel. By 1:00am on Tuesday morning, the rash had returned with such a vengeance that Carol and Rob had to go to the emergency room where they continue to be this morning. She has been disconnected from the chemotherapy and is being treated for the rash. Please pray that 1) Carol will have relief from the effects of the rash and 2) that the doctors would be able to determine the most effective response and future treatment plans. Please pray also that they would be able to return to their regular hotel accommodations, as their reservation was not honored last night. This was due to the fact that Hurricane Katrina evacuees who are still occupying approximately half of the hotel space, are not checking out as planned, thus causing a shortage of rooms. Rob and Carol were given a room at a different, but far less than ideal hotel, especially to get the rest they desperately need. Rob and Carol thank you very much for your continued and immediate prayer support.
Sept. 30, 2005
Carol is thankful that although she had a three and one half hour wait, she was finally able to see her Doctor this afternoon. He stated that the rash that she has developed is quite unusual, so much so that they will be suspending her chemotherapy today. Assuming that the rash shows improvement over the weekend, on Monday they will resume only one of the two daily chemotherapy treatments she has been receiving. This may or may not have an impact on the effectiveness of future radiation treatments. Please pray that it would not. Carol will be able to return home on Saturday morning as planned. Rob and Carol thank you very much for your continued prayer support.
Sept. 30, 2005
Carol has developed a fairly extensive upper body rash over the past twenty four hours. She is seeing her doctor later this morning regarding this condition. Please pray that during this appointment, her condition would be easily diagnosed, that it is able to be treated and that Carol will have relief. Pray also that this does not jeopardize her plans to return home on Saturday to be with her family.
Sept. 29, 2005
Carol and her daughter are thankful for a safe and on-time return to Houston this past Monday. While neither Houston nor the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center had returned to a totally normal operating state, Carol was able to navigate some challenges to receive her treatments on Monday and they have continued on schedule throughout this week. She is thankful for minimal side effects thus far and asks for your continued prayer for physical strength and protection from any infection as her immune system will be diminished. Carol plans to come home for this weekend on either Friday or Saturday and then return to Houston next Monday morning. Please continue to uphold the needs of the entire Bugh family in prayer and specifically that God will continue to reveal Himself to them through this journey.
Sept. 22, 2005
Praise God for His loving and very evident protection and provision for Rob and Carol today. Carol was able to complete her medical appointments and they were able to make their flight on time, however not without some challenges related to the massive evacuation taking place. While their flight was delayed in leaving for one hour due to heavy air traffic, they are now safely at home in Wheaton.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Due to hurricane Rita, Rob and Carol have been advised to leave Houston before their previously planned Friday departure. As reported on the news, major portions of the city are evacuating as well. Carol will receive a radiation treatment before leaving and her chemotherapy will be suspended a day earlier than planned.
Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2005
Carol began receiving her daily radiation treatments on Monday of this week, as well as the continual drip chemotherapy. At this early stage she is feeling fine; however, the combination of travel, multiple medical procedures and the emotional aspects of her situation is all tiring. Carol and Rob are very thankful as they continue to see God's hand and encouragement in all that they are experiencing. A retired pastor and his wife from Texas, who are also at M.D. Anderson for treatment, had been told by friends in Wheaton that Rob and Carol are in Houston as well. On Monday, this couple found Rob and Carol in a waiting room and they were able to meet, talk and pray together and experience loving Christian fellowship. Later that same day, as Carol laid down for her first radiation treatment, she noticed that Christian music was playing softly in the background, just one more reminder of God's ever present Spirit.
Carol and Rob have three prayer requests today. First, please pray that Carol's treatments would progress as planned and that she will be protected from any infection. Secondly, pray for their family as the separation of so many miles makes their ability to support one another much more difficult. Pray especially for Ryan for whom the separation is very painful. And thirdly, as there are some early predictions that hurricane Rita could be headed for the Galveston and Houston area at week's end, please pray that its path would be diverted from every portion of the gulf region to prevent any further destruction, and that Rob's and Carol's flight home on Friday night could take off as scheduled.
Thank you for being faithful prayer warriors.
Sept. 15, 2005
Through Friday the 16th, Carol will continue to see medical personnel in Houston and undergo tests and other preparation activities for the radiation and chemotherapy treatments which will begin later in the day on Monday the 19th. Because of the rare and serious nature of her cancer, it was recommended that the treatments take place in Houston so that any reactions or changes in Carol's overall health condition can be monitored on a daily basis by the same team of surgeons who will be performing her surgery at the end of October. Rob and Carol will be able to return home for this coming weekend and will determine future travel plans on a week by week basis. They are very thankful for the timely, capable and loving care they are receiving at M.D. Anderson and continue to rest in God's matchless and infinite grace.
Sept. 6, 2005
Dear friends,
Sept. 2, 2005
Rob and Carol got some sobering news today. It looks like the diagnosis from Mayo has changed to a melanoma. This is more serious and will require surgery ASAP (likely sometime next week). Carol had a 2nd biopsy this morning to confirm this diagnosis. Pray as they make some quick decisions that they"ll find a very good specialist to do the surgery as it's a highly unusual combination of cancer and location. This situation is a moving target. They should know more information later today or tomorrow, certainly next week.
