Great News!

I got a call from Hank yesterday. He had just hung up the phone from is doctor who delivered the good news that the MRI and CatScan had come back negative on a reoccurance of cancer. The surgery was successful!! The feeling is that since the type of cancer Hank had was so aggressive that a reoccurance would happen quickly. Nothing was found!

So now Hank's focus is on PT and getting his leg back in shape.....Thanks everyone for keeping the faith...

Mike

July 31st, 2009

Hank-Just thinking of you and wanted to drop a note onto the Blog. I spoke to Kelly and he mentioned that he saw you. I hope you are not in a great deal of pain and are getting stronger each day. We are all sending out positive "vibes" and hope that you will be back up and chasing after Teddy soon. Much love from the Maguires.

Hello Hank, My prayers are so totally with you. You have the strength to heal and move on with years filled with fun with family and friends.
We did not end up having a drunken reunion at our little farm this weekend, which is good because it was HOTTT and then the neighbor's Alpacas got loose and came over to graze. The males were loose with the girls and this was NOT a breeding year. I went over to help in a nightgown covered with a terrycloth robe. They were determined to head for the road and so I used the bathrobe like a bull matador and swung and snapped thir butts to get them back home. So much for a calm quiet early morning.
Saturday morning was opened at 5am wwith the neighbor across the way driving over his 75 acres in his truck shooting the coyotes. Never a dull moment.
My cancer had counts of 656 in March. Normal is 0-30. As of July the counts have improved to 206. Taking chemo in the heat is a bitch, but it could be worse. Thinking of you!! Laura V

Updates from Paul and Kelly

From Paul Dickson
Hi. I havent copied everybody I'd like to on this so pls forward to those you choose. Hank just had major surgery last week. I think it was "successful" but after seeing him, I'm not sure of the definition. I just talked to him and he is home now, but completely bedridden and in a lot of pain. Pls keep him in your (good Catholic) prayers.

From Kelly and Thalia Doherty
Thalia, Conor and I stopped in yesterday on the way back from Black Butte and visited with Hank, Suzanne and the kids. He actually looked great other than a pretty good zipper on his stomach and the color of his groin area through all the radiation. Both doctors felt the outcome was the best scenario they could hope for. He still has his leg, and the reconstructive surgery consisted of some pretty amazing stuff to add muscle to his groin area from his stomach. They took the tumor out and now we just need to pray and hope the cancer is gone. We came away very encouraged but we know he still has a rough recovery ahead. Feel free to call him, he does get pretty bored hung up in bed and I’m sure he would love to hear from you. His Irish stubbornness, thick headedness and resolve has worked so far.

Thinking good thoughts

Just received updates- glad to hear your spirits (well being v. well drinks) are rising, your determination unmatched and pleased you are through that phase and now in recovery mode. Hang tough and never give in.
Being a neophyte to blogs, I have not written much but please know i think of you every day. You are an amazing person Mr Murphy- Much love, tio

Monday Update

I spoke with Hank last night. He is now home and happy to "breathe some fresh air." As you can imagine, Murph gets a bit antsy cooped up in a hospital room.

He is able to get around a bit on crutches although getting in an out of bed is really hard. Lots of pain still and the docs are working to adjust his pain meds. This is pretty standard for such a major surgery.

He had visits over the weekend as Thalia and Kelly dropped in. Paul saw him on Friday.

Good signs, but a very tough recovery is in front of him...keep him in your thoughts.

Thursday Night

Hank-Just wishing you all the best. Keep positive and we're all here for you. Can't wait to see you again. Take care. Dennis, Ashley, Wilder and Jack Maguire

Hank Surgery Update

I talked to Hank today. First of all, he sounded good....a bit woozy...but who on this blog have not experienced that...
Hank said his surgery went very well on Monday. The doctors were very happy with the outcome and Hank said they cut out most of the cancer..and then some.

This was a major surgery, but as Hank said...."another challenge overwith." He is definately up for the challenge.

The surgery was extensive and Hank has a "zipper" from his collarbone to his knee. Lots of pain......and pain killers, so he has been resting quite a bit. But the great news is that he can wiggle his toes on his right foot, has his classic sense of humor, and his fighting-Irish spirit.

He said he appreciates everyone's prayers, thoughts and mojo....keep it coming.

Sunday

I was up in Portland last weekend and got to see Hank and Suzanne. Hank was nice enough to BBQ some tube steaks for me and my famished daughter, Audrey, who just completed a dive meet out at Tualatin rec. Paul was there as well and yes, I did feel a bit awkward being the only one drinking beer.

Harry looked great and was looking forward to an evening of camraderie at the Racquet Club for Harte's wedding reception. Jeez, those events used to be like every weekend......back in the day.

Murph is going into surgery tomorrow and I know he will have an army of friends there in spirit. We are all pulling for ya Conaher (not be be confused with conifer which is a tree). Prayers, thoughts, mojo, karma, voodoo....all with you tomorrow.

Steamy New Orleans...

Hank-Just sitting here Sunday Afternoon and was wondering how you are doing. I know tomorrow will be a busy day for you and I just wanted to let you know that I'll be thinking of you, Suzann and the kids. Please know you are always in our thoughts down here. I'll check in with Buz to see how you are doing later this week. Love to you from the Maguires.

New Orleans

Hank-OK, it's truly hot and humid down here now. I miss the beach in Malibu more and more each day!
How are you? What are you up to lately? I heard it was great fun in Sisters and am sorry I missed it. Next year, for sure. Got the "Hall Pass" already from Ashley. Hehe
We're off to Pensacola Beach this weekend. It's Ashley's Birthday on July 4th. Her mom rented a beach house for several of us. It will be fun to sit on a beach for the first time in...
Well, give Suzann our love and I hope to see you soon.
Much love.
Dennis

Friday-June 19

Hank-It was so good to see you last weekend in Portland. I wish we could have done it again before I left town. I heard all had fun at Sisters Rodeo. Good fun according to Buz Quinlan. All behaved themselves which is rare knowing who showed up!! Hehe
I had fun seeing Caitlin Graduate from Oregon University. First time on the campus, actually. Nice grounds. They did her graduation in the Gym. I had only seen it on TV during UCLA Basketball Games usually. Maybe an occasional USC one too.
Paul Dickson looked great. Would have been fun to see Dick W.; Jeff G.; Stan Brock; but not enough time. OH, well. Next time.
OK, hang in there. Give my love to Suzann.
Take care.
Dennis
xo

Oregon University Graduation-2009

Hank-So, Caitlin Graduates on Saturday, June 13th in Eugene. I can't believe I'm getting one of 4 out of College. Molly just finished Freshman year at Sonoma State. She's there on a Tennis Scholarship. She was ranked #10 in Division II West Coast. Wilder is now going into 4th Grade. Jack, almost 9 mos. will be attending Harvard Next Year. Yep. Straight to college for that one. Hehe OK, he's back at Baby Gate next year at McGehees School here in New Orleans.
Hey, if possible, I would like to see you. Let me know what you are doing Tomorrow, Wednesday. I'll try to reach you after I land in Portland.
OK, hope to see you.
Dennis
xo

Memorial Day

What a beautiful sunny Memorial weekend. Tons of people crammed into cars and headed for the beach. Can't blame them as it was a great weekend. Can we all finally wear our white pants and shoes?
Remembering the days when we'd all razor clam, eat and meet up till closing at the golf course. Those days were fun.
This weekend we watched all of the frantic traffic squish through Dundee and Newberg and had our own party on the acreage.
Neil turned 15 on May 24 and so a bunch of teenagers played Sardines and hide and seek and would occasionally check in with our adult crowd to roast some s'mores and heat up by the fire pit. They ran the acreage until at least midnight and then hunkered in the game room with XBox Live until 3am.
They were not too happpy about being awakened at noon. Oh to be carefree young and irrespnsible.
Hank, I hope you had fun with your family this weekend as well. Laura V

Rainy New Orleans...

Hank-
Just here in the rain, Monday Memorial Day. Happy Holiday to you.
I heard P-Town is sunny and gorgeous. Good for you all up there. Buz must be racing up
and down the river on his ski boat. What fun. Are you getting any sun? Bronzing the Greek
Bod of yours? Hehe I remember fun times around your pool with your girls and mine.
Well, I'm set for a visit to Portland for the weekend of June 12-14. I hope to stay at Buz's
chateau. Not sure if I'll go down to Eugene Friday afternoon for the Saturday morning Graduation
at OU or not yet. Let me know if you go to Sister's with the group. Unfortunately, I don't think
I'll be able to make both events this trip.
OK, I hope all is well for you, Hank. We're thinking of you. Love to you and Suzann.
Dennis, Ashley, Wilder, and Jack.
xo

Hanks Birthday and a great show......

Hank's birthday celebration was a bit toned down...I am sure, yesterday. May 11 is a special day as it is also my niece and sister's birthday. On Sunday, while tailgating before the Dead show at Shoreline with Brently Von Dross, Jamie Strohecker and Peter White, we decided to give Harry a ring. Lo and behold he picked up the phone and sounded great! A few Harry-only tidbits. He said the chemo is kinda like the worst hang over you've ever had....and doesn't go away. He is just completing round 3, I believe and mentioned that he was proud to tell the Doc "thank you sir, may I have another" His resolve is strong, spirits are positive. He even was planning on heading into work on Monday....awesome!!

Anyway, Hank really appreciates the great support, love and mojo everyone is sending him.

New Orleans Humidity

Hank-Hey, how are you? Round #2? I hope you are doing well. I think you are amazing. Keep up your spirits and know that you are loved by all of us.

It's hot down here and humid now. OH, well. We did have it good for quite a long time and I'm grateful for those days. I took Wilder to Jazz Fest. We didn't make it to Bon Jovi. He just could last another couple of hours. It was so crowded and hot/humid. I'm proud of him for trying.

I heard from Buz that he's been on the river already with his boat. It's such a fun time racing up and down that river with him. Wilder still recalls the times he's been allowed to drive Buz's boat. He loves to go fast. "The need for speed."

Well, I'm still trying to figure out my trip to Eugene to see Caitlin graduate June 13th. I should plan it out soon.

Take care, Hank and know we're all thinking positive thoughts out there for you and your family.
Love ya.
Dennis

Happy Mothers Day

Mother's day is quite special in my family. An early morning roust of the kids to attack the kitchen to build the perfect Mom's day breakfast in bed.....we always make a huge mess and the breakfast is a bit uneven with the toast being cold and the eggs runny. But there is nothing better than the look in Lisa's sleepy eyes and the relief on her face that this is her day and she can relax...for the most part. This Sunday I know a couple Moms that can use your thoughts and prayers....Sue and Suzanne Murphy are doing their best to keep things together while Hank is on the mend. I am sure Hank would like to be in better shape to celebrate with the 2 Suz....it probably tough on him that he can't participate like usual on Mom's day.

Happy Mothers Day to all you Moms

House of the Rising Sun....

Hank-Michael is right. I woke up this morning, tired as all hell, but knew I had it better than most. Wilder is happy and playing baseball. Jack is now almost 8 months old and is gorgeous. Ashley is awesome. Caitlin and Molly are back in my life. Caitlin graduates this June from Oregon University. Molly had an amazing Tennis Season at Sonoma State. She is ranked #10 in the West for Division II. So, Mike is right.
I think you start round #2 soon, and I'm thinking of you. I hope you are doing well. I think of you often.
I will keep you posted as to my trip to Oregon to see Caitlin Graduate and if possible I'd love to see you.
All my best to you and Suzann + kids.
Dennis
xo

Transitions...

These days.....these days. I don't think I've experienced so many dynamics. It gets challenging to deal with things like the crappy economy, terrorism, the drought (in California...they are forcing us to not wash our cars!!), Swine Flu (have another BLT!). And now, friends and family like Hank, Laura and Bud facing these huge challenges. Its seems overwhelming at times. But think of them.... We need to collectively pull together for these people. I believe in positive energy and its affect. WE CAN DO THIS!!


I yearn for the simple days where Friday nights at Jakes, or the Mill or the VQ or the.....just add your favorite watering hole here....was the paramount decision. What wonderful, brainless times they were.....
Then, I think back to what our parents went through....not only a fricken depression, but World War II. My mother and father were relatively unscathed from those momentous events..but they were shaken and it did toughen their resolve. I believe, that since we didn't have these "life-training" events, we are a bit soft. But we are dealing with it, albeit later in life.

As you go through your day, mentally connect with Hank, Laura and Bud. Only takes a second...I believe it will make you feel better about them and yourself. And as you walk through your week, take the extra effort to say hi, how are you. Tell your kids you love them, pet the dog, let the driver pull in front of you, thank people...land don't be so cranky.....build your karma.

Thursday-Bayou Days

Hank-What are you up to? How's P-Town? Been thinking of you and hoping that all is well for you.
I'm hoping to get to Jazz Fest this weekend. Atleast Sunday-Neil Young closes out the Festival. So, should be good.
How's your weather up there? We're enjoying an amazing Spring. Low, low humidity. I know it will come, but I'm glad for these days.

Ashley has asked for you. I tell her I write to you. Jack is now 7 months old and will be a giant. He's bigger than Wilder at this age. Scary. He's eating me out of house and home. I'll make sure he's got either a golf club or tennis racket in his hands soon. I'm thinking of being his manager-early retirement.!! Hehe

OK, Hank, be well.
Dennis

Cardboard Sledding in July

Jill and Laurie are coming to the farmon May 8. I thought we would get plans started for a summer bash with prison ball in the lower field and cardlboard sliding on the upper hill and sleeping and beverages, music and food at all points in between. Sound like fun? I ran into Bernie C and he is in. How are you doing? I go back to St V's today to biopsy a new mass by the lungs and to determine if we actually have 2 types of cancer confusing the medications. Laura V

Hello Henry!

Hank,

Cully and I have been thinking about you and your fight with cancer. We say a prayer for your recovery every night at dinner. If there was ever a fighter, it's you Henry, so stay strong! Went to Bend last weekend and came home thru Tumalo. Of course thought about St. Patrick's day with Lauren's B-day, stopping for a Irish whiskey at the Emporium and the escapades at Mt. Batchelor Village and Black Butte. Again someday with Suzanne and the kids. When yo're up to it, would like to visit with you and Mr. Dickel. Love ya Hank.

Cully and Heff

Hank-Awesome weekend down here in New Orleans. Although we were not able to get to Jazz Fest this past weekend, we heard it was awesome. I'm hoping to attend this coming weekend.
How's P-Town? Is it warming up there? I bet Buz is hoping to get on the river with his boat.
I'm hoping to deal with my trip to Caitlin's Graduation from Oregon University this June sometime later this week. I'll keep you posted. I promise.
Wilder's playing baseball. We have a very ambitious coach this year. He had us practicing Saturday morning at 8:30a.m. to 10:30a.m. WTF. OH, well. Could be worse.
Ashley directed High School Musical at McGehees School for Girls. All went well last week with it.
The company I'm working for, HORIZON ENTERTAINMENT [www.horizonent.tv] is moving forward with our first film, FATHER OF INVENTION. Kevin Spacey is attached. We're hoping to close everything soon. With Prep starting mid May. I'll keep you posted as to it's closing.
How are you feeling? Are you home now? Session #2 will be in a few weeks? I forget how it will go for you.
Just know we're thinking of you.
Dennis
xo

New Orleans-House of the Rising Sun

Hank-How's this week for you? What's the weather up there doing now? Needless to say it's warming up down here. Not brutal yet with the humidity, but we all know it will be here soon. I'm told it will be in the 80's for Jazz Fest. They are expecting huge crowds.

I'm busy getting thru scripts, budgets and shooting schedules for proposed films. I'll keep you posted.

OK, love to you and Suzann.
Dennis
xo

From Mag Cecchini Wehrley

From: Mag Cecchini Wehrley
Friends since High School.


April 21, 2009

Hank, I sit here and think of all of the things I want to say to you. No doubt, you really don't want to hear all of them. My heart ached when I heard of your cancer and what you have been through to date. And then I thought of Suzanne and your two little cuties. Oh my God...............

My family is also going through a bit of life changing stress as well. Tim was diagnosed with ALS - Lou Gehrig's disease last fall. His balance is a bit off and his walking is a challenge (but he can still get down to the MAC and do the eliptical). He walks with a walking stick, can still drive, and goes to work every day! He will be starting a clinical study in late May - has proven to stop progression of ALS. So we will keep our fingers crossed!!

Enough of us tho. My hope for you is that this cancer will be defeated. Your body is in dis-ease. Now, it needs to be eased (through all of your positive thoughts, faith & treatments). Sounds like many prayers & a ton of good karma is being sent your way. Hank, I know you as a strong Irishman with a positive mind and a tender smile - always. LIFE IS NOT FAIR.............it is what it is. You are surrounded with a wonderful family as well as an abundance of people who love you. (Some people have none of this.)
You are truly lucky!!!

Please let Suzanne know that both Tim & I are praying for your recovery and sending our good karma to the both of you. I hope to see your tender smile soon.

BFN...................Love to you, Mag

Jazz Fest-2009

Hank-So, since you are not coming to Jazz Fest this year; Great line up this weekend and next-Go to NOLA.com and check out who's playing this year. You must commit to next year. It's a great time with lots of music, food and ... I hope all is well this week for you. Dennis

New Orleans...

Hank-Hey, just here thinking of you. How was your first week? I hope you are well. Ashley and I are thinking of you and Suzann + kids too.
I did a Cub Scout Camp Out with Wilder this weekend. Yes, the beach boy was camping in the woods! We were in Kiln, Mississippi. Great campsite for Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts. Wilder had a ball too. Weather was great. Gotta love the New Orleans' dads, quite a few adult beverages were had by all.
How is your weather up there. Our local newscast never mention the west coast. Amazing. OH, well. I hope it's getting warm and sunny there. We had a blast of rain Saturday Night, but Sunday, yesterday was gorgeous.
OK, keep your spirits up, Hank, and know that you are loved by all.
Dennis, Ashley, Wilder, and Jack.
xo

high school buddy

Hi Hank.Stephanie Gregores here. I just heard about your cancer. If any one can beat this diesease hank it is you. You are one of the most postitive upbeat people that I know. The last time that I saw you was in front of Nordstrom at Christmas time with your arms full of bags and a big smile on your face. Wade and I are sending our good thoughts in your direction. We had our twins at OHSU. Its the BEST hospital!

From Sue Casey.....

You've been in the thoughts and prayers of the Casey clan and John Pyle. Hope OHSU has treated you well.
There's nothing tougher than an Irishman...
Mind the nurses,they have the keys and the drugs.....

Love, Nurse Casey

Hank,  I am looking forward to hearing positive news about your treatment.  Hang in there and be strong. Some of my best memories  were getting into trouble walking to St. Thomas More, throwing crab apples at cars and then being chased through the woods.  You always got out of trouble.  You will get away from this one too.  Get well soon.  Tom Hart

Hey Hank, It is a gorgeous weekend and I wish we could be cocktailing at Gearhart and you trying to direct my car over oppossums. Sending prayers your way. Laura

Hey Henry, Hopefully you are finishing up round one. Congrats! Looking forward to the new hairdo. The things you will do to look like me. We are all thinking about and God is overwhelmed with all the Murphy prayers, we just hope like hell he is Irish or has a good sense of humor. Who loves ya baby! Remember the night Kendall was born, all of Good Samaritan Hospital was awakened. Hope to see ya soon. Love ya Murph, Fuzzalini

From Laura Vranizan, a St. Thomas More Classmate

Hello Mike, I was shocked to hear that the invincible black Irishman would dare to pee red. Chemo is a bitch, but it is also a cure. I would like to be a part of the blog and need your help to sign up. My email is
lvgequine@onlinenw.com OHSU has splendid new quarters. I just spent
last Thursday, Friday and Saturday at St. Vincents in the Oncology floor due to a major cancer re occurrence in all of my bones. The spasms were like a cougar was chomping at my back. The many tests showed that I had broken 4 ribs and compressed and fractured vertebra's #10 and #11. I have been introduced to Morphine and lots of other narcotics which keep me in a dull blur. They are doing daily radiation to the vertebrae and a monthly IV of Zometa to strengthen the bone.
Could you please pass on the word to our STM classmates as well as my email. I am too stoned to drive but if anyone is going up to visit Hank, I would love to tag along. Brad and David Lane live kind of near Newberg. I think that if we still want to do a camp out on our acreage, it should be this summer while we still have all of us together. Love to you all, Laura Vranizan Gravatt 503-537-1003

From Tim Anderton

Hi Hank, we've had you on our minds. We know you are making the best of this latest venture. Sherry and I are leaving NC 4/18 for Dick's 80th at Gearhart. While in PDX, we will be sure to check in and see how you are doing. I spoke with Mark Anderton last night, and he sends his best thoughts for your full recovery. He is also having some problems with an eye condition for which he is under treatment. Today it is Carolina blue all day, 72 degrees as I sit here at work in my shorts and ball cap. I told your Mom and Dick that we are bringing this weather with us! It is fun reading all your support messages. I wonder if you and your New Orleans friends ever visit one of our all time favorite NO bars, Port O' Call? When you are ready, we need to meet there and give Mayor Nagin something to really talk about! Hope you are checking your email, I've sent you a few blurbs that you ought to get a kick out of. Later, Uncle Tim.
--
Timothy J Anderton

Hank,
Hope you are doing well as you near the end of this first week of chemo! Glad to hear that you are getting the "rainbow treatment" from your chemo nurses as well. I wonder if your reaction was similar to mine when the nurse told me the red stuff she was about to add to the mix would make me pee red and then pink for awhile! I'm thinking about marketing the stuff so Cougar fans can "pee crimson" when they go to Husky Stadium!
Saw a report on the news this morning as I was on the eliptical in the basement that said exercise helps cancer patients recover quicker and last longer. So when you get home Saturday play with the kids and take the dog for a walk, or play with the dog and take the kids for a walk!
Thoughts and prayers!
Bud

April 16 update

I received a surprise call from Hank last night. He described his set up at OHSU. Sounds like a great view....at least. He was going through the last of his first round of chemo, described as a reddish brown mixture being pumped through his veins. Yikes. he said he feels OK....kind of "sea sick."

If all goes well, he goes home soon. Hank promised to post in the next couple days to give everyone an update.

So far so good.......

two days left of week one; hang in there Hank- we are all thinking of you.

Bayou Boy...

Hank-It's Wednesday Afternoon down here in New Orleans. Just been thinking of you and wish you all the best. How are you feeling? Where did they put your "Port?" Keep your spirits up. Give Suzann my love and know that all of the Maguires down here are thinking of you both.

Weather is clear and beautiful here. The humidity is coming, I'm sure, but it's been great so far this spring.
Work is going OK. I thought we'd be in production on a film by now, but hopefully by this summer. We are circling a few to choose from.

Wilder and I are off camping this weekend. Yes, Dennis is camping out. Tent and all. Wilder's a Cub Scout, so we have the Spring Camp Out in Kiln, Mississippi Friday and Saturday. It's a fun time and I'm looking forward to it. Several of the dads are fun to hang out with and laugh at ourselves that we are "camping out."

OK, love you, Hank.
Dennis

From Shannon Murphy-Warner and family

Hank:

We are all thinking about you and the crew just wanted to wish you a good night:

I am soooooooooooo sorry that you have cancer. I bet you will be fine. Michaela!!!!!!!!!!!

I say a prayer for you every day. I hope that you get better soon. Sincerely Trevor

I love you a load and you are the best uncle I'v ever known and always will be. I want to make you happy but I dont know any good joke so I'm going to say I love you. Caleigh

I hope you are really confident. Don't ever look on the bad side. Just keep thinking about the good things happening. Try not to get bored. When I had heart surgery I got super bored. Always try to be doing something. We have a movie that we want you to see. It is full of good English humor. I love you! Sincerely, Cole

Hank's first day of chemo...from Suzann

Hello all. Here is a quick update from Suzann

Hank had his first day today. It started at 6am for checking in for port placement. That went well. he arrived at his room for the next 5 days, 1305K. Beautiful new rooms at OHSU Phil Knight cancer center. Large and an amazing view. Keeps the spirits up despite the cold, rain and chemo! He had a hard time coming out of anesthisia. Received his first chemo at 9pm tonite. It was very emotional for me but Hank was cracking "irony" jokes. He took it well. Thanks again for keeping the blog momentum. You are a great friend to him. Hi to Lisa and the girls. Love suzann

New Orleans Blogger

Hank-
Hey, I just wanted to give you an email to read after your first day of Chemo. I hope it goes well and you are not too uncomfortable during the process.
We are all thinking of you and I can't wait to see you when I go to Caitlin's Graduation from Oregon University this June. I'll keep you posted as to my travels.
All is well down here in New Orleans.
Take care, Hank.
Dennis
xo

Go Get 'em!

Hank,
Great talking with you yesterday! Hope Easter with the family and the haircut went well!
Saw the report on the news tonight about your project being shut down, but they didn't mention your name or blame it on you at all, so no worries!
Be strong this week!

3rd Blog

Well everybody, Happy Easter. I spent the entire day with my family - tomorrow the fun and games begin. The posts have been incredible, the support really helps. I am ready for what they are going to throw at me next week. I will be able to post more often - the last week has really been a full one. On top of all this my main project at work made the front page of the Oregonian - we are delaying it until 4th quarter 2009. When it rains it pours. It is just time to be strong - i feel very fortunate to have reconnected with a lot of people I have not talked with in a very long time.

I hope everyone had as special Easter as I am having. I think I can honestly say I had a better day than Tiger and Phil.

Thank you. Hank.

Happy Easter to All

I remember fondly the Easter Beer hunts I had with Hank during our college days....we would awaken early....probably around noon....bright and fresh with anticipation of what the Easter Beer Bunny had left for us the night before. Our search around the back yard was a difficult one as we were challenged to identify the full Easter Beers from the empties strewn around. The extensive process would take at least an hour with a few breaks to sample our findings.... after which we would gather our treasures on the kitchen table. The event would be christened by the the ceremonial shaking of the backyard Avocado tree. As Hank and I were too weak because of the exhausting night before and the extensive beer hunt, we would summon the local Tree Shaker, notorious because she always wore a Stetson Hat, show us the proper method to bring down those little green gems. And finally, Hank when he had regained enough strength would end the blessed day with the ceremonial "Avocado First Pitch" at the plate glass living room window......aaaah the memories.

HC Murphy - 2nd Blog

Hey everybody,

Thank you so much for the responses. The internet and this blog has reconnected me with a lot of people I have not talked to in a very long time. The last few days have been packed with doctors appointments and work in anticipation of next week. I check into the hospital on monday morning for my first session of chemo. If everything goes well I get to come home the following Saturday. Suzann will then have 3 children she will be taking care of. 

Yesterday, some friends took me out to lunch and gifts were exchanged. One of the gifts were some professional hair clippers - a good friend and fellow cancer survivor "passed them on" to me. I will try and get some before and after pictures - if I can talk my kids into in we will have a head shaving event on Easter Sunday. 

Thank you to everybody who has signed up and contributed to the blog - it really means a lot to me and my family. 

Hank.  

Chemo Pal

Hank,
Welcome to the club, a club we would prefer not to be members of! I joined the club in January. I had a couple of cysts removed from my scalp. The doctor told me they were sabacious cysts, nothing to worry about, come in and get them removed if you want to, or just leave them be. Fortunately one got big, big enough for people to give it a second look. Didn't look good on TV, and was kind of right next to my headset when I was doing play-by-play. I decided to have it removed. It was surgically removed on New Year's Eve day. 8 days later I was driving to Pullman to do a game and got a call from the doctor who removed the cysts, and he told me I needed to see an oncologist. Certainly got my attention! My wife and I visited an oncologist a few long days later, and we were told that I had lymphoma. I did alot of blood work, had a bone marrow biopsy....they pulled a plug of my bone out of the back side of my pelvis...interesting to say the least! I then had a PET/CT scan to see where else the cancer was. The results turned out to be pretty good. The doctor said it was very rare to have lymphoma on your head, and not in any other lymph nodes. He told me I would have 6, 4 or 3 chemo treatments depending on further tests.
Like you, I have been doing a treatment every three weeks. My treatment is an all day affair, but that pales in comparison to 5 days as you will do. The good news is that they have made great strides in chemo and how to keep us feeling better as we receive it. The worst problem I had with the treatments was the steroids I had to take to boost my immune system. I think I could hit at least 20 homeruns if I play LF for the Giants! The steroids made it tough to sleep, and I did not eat much. I had to take pills. Since you will be on a 5 day cycle maybe they will give them to you thru the IV, and hopefully they will be easier to deal with that way! I'm guessing they put a port in to administer the drugs?
This blog is a great idea, because everyone will want to know how you are doing, and it can get tiring telling the same story over and over again. It has been humbling to me the support and prayers that have come my way during this.
I've worn a Livestrong band on my wrist for about 4 years now. I say a daily prayer for friends who are dealing with cancer. It was an odd feeling to include my name in that. There are a number of people I know who are in remission or cancer free, and that is the next club that I hope to join. I'm looking forward to joining that club this summer, and reserving a spot for you to be there at the end of the summer!
I'll be thinking of you each night I touch that Livestrong bracelet. My wife and daughter and I will be walking the Race for the Cure next Sunday in Spokane, we'll be thinking of you as we do it.
Be Strong!
Bud

First Blog

Dear Friends and Family,

My first Blog and entry into this website. As my dear friend Mike (Mikey) Deneffe has stated I have been diagnosed with cancer. I have a fairly rare form of cancer called Sarcoma. I  had a tumor removed in my leg a few weeks ago and my next step in combating the cancer will be chemotherapy - and a lot of it. 

Sometime around April 13th I will check into the hospital for a five day stay. I will be tethered to an IV machine for 5 days and then I will be let out of the hospital to recover for 2 weeks. This cycle will happen 5 times in total. God willing I will be done by mid-August. 

Mikey and I have been through a lot of "firsts" together as BB King once said "we go way back and we will go way forward" that is the type of positive attitude I hope to maintain through this difficult period. Thanks again Mikey for ushering me through this first blog and Mikey has assured me that nothing is ever posted to a blog that my grandmother couldn't read.

It is difficult for me to ask for help but I do need and want your support and prayers not only for myself but my wife and children. Thank you in advance. At times I have been referred to as; stubborn, aggressive, opinionated, single minded and judgemental - and those may be some of my better character traits. Hopefully those character traits will assist me in this upcoming battle. 

Thank you all in advance for your support. 

Love. Hank.

Welcome to the Harry Blog

I found out this week through the grapevine that my great friend Hank Murphy has been diagnosed with cancer. Wow...wake up call. I talked to Hank on Wednesday night (April 1...fools day it wasn't) The type of cancer he has been diagnosed with his a soft tissue version which affects the muscles. So far he has had two surgeries in his right groin area to remove tumors. The doctors say they got it all, but want to put him on an extensive chemotherapy schedule to mark sure. This will start in the next couple weeks.

Hank was his usual self depreciating self, but I could tell his is scared. He vowed to "fight like hell" and said he is most worried about the extra pressure this is putting on Suzanne and the family as he will be laid up for a while.

I encourage you to post your thoughts and encouragement to this blog. I am working to get Hank used to the process and once he does and this blog is broadly distributed, think it will be a great way to stay in touch, keep informed and offer encouragement and support to Hank and the rest of his network.