I have kind of given you a scrap of info that we are going through something “big” and today is the day…Nick is going to be having “brain” surgery for a 3cm tumor that is attached to the pituitary gland and causing all kinds of issues that we have been trying to figure out for years…so the good news is this…we finally have an answer to his symptoms…and then if you have a tumor, this is the one you want…I don’t want to say they are never cancerous, but very rarely, so we are not dealing with the big C, but it is still a big surgery…
Nick was going through pre-op for back surgery when our GP finally figured out his “real” problem….His features have changed in the last couple of years….He has gotten bigger…his shoe size when from a 12 to 15…this hands are huge, fingers like bratwursts…and so on…he also went from about 220 to 270 and is not any “fatter” just bigger…he is way over producing adrenaline and this also makes him very tired…wore out…has to take a 2 hour nap daily…He also will still have to have that back surgery which I’m sure is also a side effect from this tumor as well, all that extra weight on his spine…
So now is the time for those prayers…I don’t care who or what you pray too…just please, if you can…we would VERY much appreciate them…He has great Docs…Dr. Wascher, the Neurosurgeon and Dr. Bechard the ENT specialists at Theda Clark in Neenah.
I am going to be selfish here for a minute because I need him to come through this and get back to being himself…I don’t know what I would do without him…He doesn’t think I need him and that I would be fine without him…and It may seem that way to a lot of people…but lets just get this straight…sometimes it’s really not about needing… it is more about wanting…after 20 years I still WANT him with me by my side to enjoy what we have accomplished and worked so hard for…so nothing bad can happen today and that is why I’m asking for your help…
I also have to say I am so sad and praying myself for anyone who is dealing with the effects of Harvey…I am hoping my quilters in Houston area are all OK and that while their sewing rooms may be underwater, I hope they are safe…that is all that matters, we can replace everything else…please if you follow my blog, let us know how you are doing in the comment section here, because we care…and we all can’t imagine our sewing rooms underwater.
I will give some updates on FB while I get them…so thanks for your time and again for the prayers…I know this is not about quilting,.. but I really need your help…surgery is scheduled for 10am.
It is always a relief to know there is a plan. We will gladly pray for you and for Nick. Great days will hopefully be ahead for you both as he recovers.
Praying for God to quide the surgeons hands during the surgery, and for Nick to come through this with flying colors. Praying for you Lisa for strength, peace, patience and comfort during this surgery. You have so many people that care about you. Best Wishes for a speedy recovery to you Nick!
Prayers are flowing for Nick, you and your famiy. For the surgeon and team involved.
May you feel the arms of God wrapped tight around you today and I the days to come.
My heart and prayers are with you both, Lisa. I have tremendous confidence that all will be well as it sounds like Nick is in good care. I was widowed young (though remarried an equally wonderful man) so I get the feelings you’re going through.
Please know that you are not alone. Many of us have been in your situation and are sitting with you in that waiting room today giving you support and prayers.
Your family is in my prayers. I had that surgery nine years ago. Surprisingly easy to recover from-very stressful regardless. Wishing you both all the best.
Am familiar with what Nick has. My mother had this when they were first figuring out how to treat it. She had radiation. Now they can fix the problem with surgery. I am praying here in Orange County Cali. God Bless Nick, the surgery team, and your family. I know how you feel about losing your love! Stay strong.
Patty
I pray that God protects Nick during this surgery and cover him with his healing power for Nicks recovery. And may God give Lisa and her Family Strength and Comfort while you all go through this day and months ahead. Have Faith. And for the people and families in the State of TEXAS and surrounding areas, my thoughts and Prayers goes out to you.
Oh, Lisa, this is indeed a big day! I’m so thankful that you finally have an answer to Nick’s puzzling symptoms, and I will be praying for all of you, as well as his surgeon, today and throughout the healing process. May you feel surrounded by grace and comfort!
LISA, When I read the post about your husband’s condition, I decided to respond to let you know that I am praying for him and your family, and that oddly, my best girlfriend in WA State (where we reside) is scheduled for the EXACT SAME surgery on Friday, September 1 in Seattle.ย Joanne is my friend’s name.ย She never realized there was a problem until she noticed a lump in her throat.ย Because she had thyroid cancer in the past, she was concerned.ย After numerous tests, it was discovered that she has a growth on her pituitary gland and that it is pressing on her optic nerve.ย Joanne had gained weight so she just attributed it to the fact that her feet had grown from size 7-1/2 to size 11, and that her hands had grown very large.ย Along with this, she has hundreds, if not thousands of “skin tags” on her face and neck, which the doctor said is caused by her pituatary gland issue.ย MARGARET DUKES
From: Lisa Bongean’s Weblog To: “margaretanndukes@yahoo.com” Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2017, 7:02:43 AM PDTSubject: [New post] the big dayโฆ | lisabongean posted: ” I have kind of given you a scrap of info that we are going through something “big” and today is the day…Nick is going to be having “brain” surgery for a 3cm tumor that is attached to the pituitary gland and causing all kinds of issues that we have b” | |
My prayers are with Nick and you as you guys go through this. I know Nick will do good and come thru with flying colors. He is just to nice a person for it not to have a positive outcome. My GOD be with you both.
Thoughts, prayers and hugs for you both. Your only concern now is Nick, you have been blessed to have each other and always will be. Prayers, faith, and trust. In God will get you through this together . ๐
Praying for you and Nick at this time and especially for the doctors for their skill and good judgement to the only God who hears our prayers, cares for you and has the ability to answer.
My heart is full of love for you and Nick. You have my prayers and good thoughts that all will go well. Continue to be strong Lisa. Nick needs to lean on you now. xo Red
Lisa, I have said my prayers and I will tell you that a very good friend of mine had this same surgery and I can remember how 4 days later, he was good to go, you wouldn’t even know that he had surgery.
My father-in-law had the exact symptoms and surgery that your husband is having. This was several years ago when technology wasn’t what it is today and he came through with flying colors. Our prayers are with you that you may have the same good outcome.
OMG! Huge cyber hugs and prayers to you, Nick, and all of you going through this. What the two of you have is a rare relationship and it’s so wonderful to be a part of it. May love surround you. Get as many hugs as possible. If you need down time for this, we all can wait. This is so much more important now. You and your family are the priorities. God bless.
We are safe in central Texas. My daughter & her family live in Victoria. They have been with us since Fri. Going home today since water & power have been restored.
My prayers are for you & Nick. My sister has/had (not sure it ever goes away but no symptoms since surgery in 1989) Cushings. Try to relax, I believe he will make a full recovery! Sitting outside the hotel in Houston last year, he gave me comforting words when I learned my grandson had received a horrible football injury. I pray that I’ve given you some.
The prayer warriors are praying for Nick and you and all the family. It is so hard to place all our loved ones in God’s care sometimes but we need to know he will carry us through the tough times.
Lots of prayers coming your way Lisa — prayers for surgeon’s steady hands, speedy recovery for Nick with better days ahead, and strength and comfortable for you as you worry about your man!
Surgeries, whether minor or major, are never easy. That goes for the patient and the ones in the waiting room filled with anxiety. Hugs & prayers to you, Nick, and your entire family.
Nick is one of the nicest guys I’ve met in the quilting world. I’ll be praying that everything goes great for him. Lisa, just because you’re one tough cookie doesn’t mean you don’t have a nice soft center. I’ll be praying for you too. Best of luck.โค๏ธโค๏ธโค๏ธ
He’s in good hands with competent surgeons and nurses although it’s still so scarey to anyone facing these difficult situations. We will wait with our prayers for word from you he is in recovery and putting a smile back on your face again. Lots of hugs from NY.
Oh Lisa, I so know the feelings of waiting for the outcome. Continued prayers all through this for both you and Nick and your girls and for sure hands of the Doctors involved. The love of your sewing community is surrounding you today with much love.
I am happy for you that you have discovered the cause of your husband’s health problems. (And your love for each other is wonderful.) I will pray for God to guide your doctors’ care for him and for many years together. And that you will find the God who loves you and is always there for you.
Praying for you and Nick, the surgery doctors and the great people in Houston. Also for a speedy recovery for Nick! We can wait, he needs all of you right now!!!
Love. Hugs. And prayers. I do think of you both and your families every time I look at my walls with pieces of you on them and feel the warmth of your quilts on my bed. Have met you both in my travels. I will pray.
Lisa , prayers going up for you and your family. All surgeries are scary. I have always had a bit of envy for your relationship with your husband. He seems so involved in all aspects of your live and that is so good. God is good and will care for your gentle giant.
Lisa and Nick…prayers for a successful and speedy recovery! We have your back as you have had ours in the quilting world! God bless you and your family!
Praying for you both; that Nick has a successful surgery and the you find the strength you need to get through the wait. Always scary when a loved one is taken away to that operating room; and praying that the surgical team is able to do everything necessary for him. Looking forward to your post later today, telling us all that he is out of surgery and on his way to recovering. My friend and I really enjoyed meeting him at the Maine Quilt show last year. He was doing an awesome job at your booth; and was a great way to finish the day after taking your class earlier. God Bless you both. HUGS from Maine
Dear Lisa and nick. Sending prayers and hugs to both of you. I know in my heart that the surgery will be a success. Here in Seabrook TX we have had about 30+ inches of rain since last night and still raining. I pray for all the affected families and all true quilt shops in the area that are probably flooded
Keeping you, Nick and the surgical teams in my prayers! I fully understand the “want” more than the “need” for that loved one in your life. Wish you the best!
Praying for Nick and your family. Praying for a positive outcome for Nick. Prayers for the long road back for the families of Texas. Prayers of support and heart felt love goes out to everyone.
Praying for you and Nick!! Met you and Nick at a Houston Show many years ago, he seemed to have a strong will and a sense of humor. I think he will pull through just fine. Bless you both, hope to follow you for years to come.
Prayer is a very powerful thing and today you all have mine. Always love seeing Nick at the shows. He is a fun, goofy, bundle of joy and we hope for a speedy recovery. God bless you both.
Prayers, for sure, and hopes for a speedy recovery and resolution to all the other issues impacted by this nasty tumor.
I hadn’t thought about the Quilters as Quilters, although seeing the convention center as a refuge did make me think of the big Houston show coming up. Hopefully all the Quilters are high and dry with or without their machines. What a terrible storm, I worry about the children and the emotional impact there.
Right now, praying for Nick, the Quilters, their families and all the little children of Houston.
I believe in miracles! God hears our prayers. Wishing for a speedy recovery and the best results possible! Piecefully, Mary Anne from Long Island, New York
Prayers for Nick, you and your family as you go through the surgery and the recovery…Also prayers for Texas and the devastation that Harvey is doing to so many areas there. I have many family and friends there and we also winter in Port Aransas where it first hit-total disaster ..so very sad.
Prayers and well wishes coming your way for your hubby, you and your family.
Take care my friend and know there is a great power looking over him.
See you soon.
Mary Lou Ripper (louripp)
Lots of us down here in Texas will be with you and Lisa and your family. Nick, all you have to do is just get some needed rest (I am sure) and let those amazing doctors do what they “do” best. See you soon.
So sorry this is something you all are going thru. But it sounds like answers and a good outcome are on their way. The next few months are “me” time as he recovers and you nurse him back to the old Nick. We all definitely understand that. Nick is in good hands and with you by his side will recover quickly. Love you guys and you are both in my thoughts today.
Lisa and Nick,
Prayers are with you both – know that there are so many who care about you, and thank you for all you have added to our lives with your talents. Debbie
Wow, what a weight of concern you must have been bearing trying to figure all of this out, and now to go through the surgery. Definitely praying for you, Nick, and the surgeons!
Prayers for Nick and God’s hands on both of you during this time. Prayers and well wishes for all those affected by Hurricane Harvey. May they recover speedily.
Best hopes for Nick and you as you live this challenge together.
And thank you for your generosity to the quilting community- it’s impressive that you’ve continued your work with and for through all of your personal ups-and-downs
Lisa, thank you so much for sharing this with us. May you all feel the love of God as he holds you all in his arms. Praying for guidance for the medical team. Many blessings for a long and happy continuation of your marriage.
I will be praying for Nick! I had a tumor on my pituitary gland, it ruptured the gland and the tomor attached itself to my kidney. I had ot for nine years, with a lot of the same symptoms Nick had. Big surgery, but it went well. I do know what he is going through! God was so good to me!
So heartwarming to read about all the positive energy, love and prayers that are going to you, Nick, and the surgical team.
Waiting for results is difficult, and I am sending more healing thoughts, prayers to your family, the doctors and the hospital staff from Gig Harbor, WA. I think you have prayers coming from every direction, which is a good thing.
prayers for you and Nick. Such a really hard time, for you folks and for the hurricane folks too. I am going thru treatments for throat cancer, and could not do it without my loving Lord and and my special loving husband. Thank you so much Lord for those who care for us.
My prayers are with you both. Speedy recovery for Nick ( you need to get back to fishing) and strength to Lisa to take care of him. Thinking of both of you on this day, and best wishes everyday.
Lisa, about 15 years ago my husband had a tumor removed from his adrenal gland. Very rare most are found at autopsy because the patient strokes out. His doctor calls him a miracle man. Fast forward those 15 years and I find myself sitting in a waiting room once again only today it’s just routine cataract surgery! We need our spouses no matter our level of confidence and seeming independence. I know who my biggest supporter and cheerleader is, as do you! I’ll say a prayer for yours as I wait for mineโค๏ธ
Sending prayers to you and your family. Also praying for all the caregivers and medical people that the gifts of healing that God has given them will be there for Nick. Know you both are being carried through your storm by a loving, caring God.Blessings to you.
From: Lisa Bongean’s Weblog To: janj215@yahoo.com Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2017 9:03 AM Subject: [New post] the big dayโฆ #yiv3078513909 a:hover {color:red;}#yiv3078513909 a {text-decoration:none;color:#0088cc;}#yiv3078513909 a.yiv3078513909primaryactionlink:link, #yiv3078513909 a.yiv3078513909primaryactionlink:visited {background-color:#2585B2;color:#fff;}#yiv3078513909 a.yiv3078513909primaryactionlink:hover, #yiv3078513909 a.yiv3078513909primaryactionlink:active {background-color:#11729E;color:#fff;}#yiv3078513909 WordPress.com | lisabongean posted: “I have kind of given you a scrap of info that we are going through something “big” and today is the day…Nick is going to be having “brain” surgery for a 3cm tumor that is attached to the pituitary gland and causing all kinds of issues that we have b” | |
That is a biggie! Thoughts and prayers for you and Nick, and the rest of your family. Hope everything goes as supposed to. And prayers for Texas also. I have a few relatives there in the middle of the mess.
Many good thoughts and my very best prayers for Nick’s surgery/recovery and for your support and encouragement for Nick and your family and for all of our friends and fellow quilters who are struggling with the high water/storms.
Wow. It is quite a big surgery . He will come. thru with flying colors. God bless you Nick & may God hold you tightly in his hands for a few days. Any surgery has its risks but it sounds like you have him with great doctors
Prayers for you both!!
On Aug 29, 2017 7:02 AM, “Lisa Bongean’s Weblog” wrote:
> lisabongean posted: ” I have kind of given you a scrap of info that we are > going through something “big” and today is the day…Nick is going to be > having “brain” surgery for a 3cm tumor that is attached to the pituitary > gland and causing all kinds of issues that we have b” >
Lisa,
Sending thoughts and prayers your way for Nick today and his recovery!
We are hanging in, day 4 of Harvey rains here and hoping for the best. The Brazos River will decide what happens next. So many thousands have lost everything here, it is truly beyond comprehension.
I hear you! My husband had a benign 5cm tumor removed from his brain last November. He is feeling the best he has in years! Was so scary! And they sent him home with only regular Tylenol! Hang in there. We’re all pulling for you both!
We are all praying for all your family and friends. Thank you for your concerns about our state at this time.
I know all will be well. Patsy from Texas.
Prayers are sent your way to you and your family. I am glad they found the issue. Sometimes that seems to be very difficult but now they know what to do for it.
God’s blessings to Nick, you and your family. Nick… we love seeing you in all the photos (your bike, fishing, with the kids & grandkids) and with Lisa’s smiling face. You are apart of our quilt family. Get well. Jeter misses you too!
Lisa, Praying for you and Nick. As a native Houstonian, I am so sad to see all the destruction to my home, Houston. So many people have lost everything. We are so blessed living north of town and dry but totally surrounded by water. We need the rain to stop. I have checked the Quilt Festival site and it is posted the show will go on. We will recover and see your fabulous booth at the show in a few months.
Prayers for both Nick and you and the family. You are correct that a pituitary tumor is usually not cancerous. Brain surgery is very scary, nevertheless. I actually have a “shadow” that was found on my pituitary gland as well but we are watching it since nothing is definitive. BTW, I live in the Houston area and it is a mess here. Will the rain ever stop! We are faring ok in our area. My thoughts and prayers are with all those that have been displaced and suffered damage to their property. A heartfelt thanks goes out to our first responders and general citizens for all their help and putting their lives at risk to help those in need. We are blessed.
Sending hugs your way and well wishes nor a successful surgery and speedy recovery for Nick. You two make a great team in business and in life. I wish you all the best. God bless.
“It is the Lord that goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you nor forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8.
Praying everything is going well.
Lisa and Nick – I am so sad to hear this news but also overjoyed that they have found the issue and it can be fixed. I understand about “need” and “want”. Sometimes guys think we just want them for their helpfulness around the house, etc. I tell my husband I can hire that person, it’s you I want around to share my life with. I will be thinking of you both and saying a prayer for Nick.
Praying for Nick , you and your family. Also for guidance for his doctors. I live in Corpus Christi, and we missed the worst of Harvey. However, I have friends and family in Rockport, Tx that weren’t so lucky. Please keep all those affected by Harvey in your prayers. There is so much devastation that it is hard to comprehend. I have a quilting friend that just moved to Houston and her house is under water. Please pray for the Smith family. We are strong, compassionate people here in Texas, and we will get through this – it will just take some time.
Lisa-
Sending love, prayers and good thoughts to you and Nick. Be patient with yourself and with Nick during the recovery period. There may be no big scar to show after the surgery but it takes a while for your body to reset and feel human again. Love you lots!!
May his surgeons hands be guided by the man upstairs! May his recovery be without complications. Hopeful that going through this together only strengthens the bond the two of you already share. May you both continue to be blessed!
Lisa I’m sending my prayers for the skilled Doctors to guide them in the surgery and for Nicks speedy healing and for you and your family patiently waiting. Hugs!
I wishing you two all of the best and thinking of you and hope the surgery will go as smooth as possible. And I hope everybody is safe in Texas and stays this way. Hugs to all of you.
Father God… guide the hands of the surgeons as they remove this tumor from Nick’s body. Comfort Lisa and the family with Your overwhelming peace. Give Nick the best outcome possible and restore health to his body. Provide financially, emotionally and physically for every need they might have. And let his recovery be faster and smoother than expected. Give them the gift of Your Presence today and in the days ahead. Bless them with all they need to navigate a full and complete recovery.
And we pray for Texas… send angels (big strong ones) to hold up the levees that are in jeapordy of breaking… hold them up… and keep the people in harm’s way safe. Help the resources and supplies to get through to those who need them. Encourage and strengthen the first responders… give them wisdom… and comfort those who are so very afraid, including my daughter’s in-laws in Sugar Land. Comfort their fearful hearts and minds. Keep them safe. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Praying for Nick and a great outcome to his surgery. God is the Great Physician, and he is guiding Nick’s doctors as they perform his surgery. Praying for you also, Lisa, that you will be comforted and will stay strong. Hugs sent your way. Please update us as you can. God bless you both.
Lisa…
Prayers, for sure…for Nick and you too! How do you deal with it ALL? Might be a sign to just slow down a bit and enjoy life! My thought & prayers.
Sharon
Oh my gosh, Lisa, praying for both you and Nick. I don’t know how you have gotten through all the classes and traveling you have done with this looming over you. Praying for Nicks health and a successful surgery and for you for God’s precious peace.
Praying for you and Nick and your family today. I met him last year in Augusta Maine, and he was so nice and patient helping me because I have a hard time making up my mind. Praying that all goes well, and Nick is feeling more himself soon.
Oh my gosh. I am so sorry to hear that you and Nick have been going through this. Praying real hard Lisa for complete success with this surgery. Lifting up Nick’s surgeons for their best work. Praying that God gives you peace as you wait that all will be well. Hugs.
Oh, Lisa, what shocking news! My thoughts and prayers are with you, Nick, his medical team and surgeons for their expertise in performing a successful surgery and recovery! May God Bless!
Praying for the doctors to have steady hands, the nurses to speed up the recovery and Nick to through in flying colors. Asking a God to watch over you, family and friends.
Lisa I’m praying for Nick, you, and your family as you go thru this… your in my heart always and you have my number if you need anything.. love hugs and lots of prayers Liz
Lisa. You and Nick are absolutely in my thoughts and prayers as you both go through this little storm. Moving to China in the morning but will be watching fb for updates as he comes through this and will stood be back by your side making magic together.
When you gave a hint, I thought it might be about Nick. It’s 1 hour past surgery time here in the East and I’m just reading your blog since hubby was doing some preop this morning also. I said my prayer for both of you and for a full recovery for your Sweetie. I’ll have to try and find you on FB for an update.
Prayers to you and your family Lisa! You do so much good and good comes back I am sure! Our nephew has the same type tumor and it also took a few years to diagnosis. His is controlled by a medication that reduces it in size. You will have your Nick for a long time!! Hang in there today. =)
My prayers and heartfelt thoughts for Nick, You, your family, doctors and medical personnel that will be working so hard for Nick’s successful surgery and speedy recovery. Please remember your strength and love is your family’s glue, and that blessing comes from above. There are many who care deeply without sending a special note here.
Prayers and best thoughts also for all those impacted by Harvey, may your strength bring you through this safely.
Lisa:
All my prayers to you and husband. To finally get an answer must be a relief! I know you are worried sick.
Please keep us posted and know you’ll be in my prayers.
Mary in New Braunfels
God is THE great Physicisn, and He has a plan for you and Nick. Praying for strength and acute senses for the doctors during the surgery, for compassion and alertness for the nurses, and the Peace that passes all understanding for you as you wait. Hugs to you!
Dear Lisa and Nick….by now, hopefully surgery is over and all is well. I just saw this message. I will still pray for you both, As I do know how difficult this can be, having gone through this with my Son in Law just last year. Hang in there….you are both really strong people who have worked so hard and have accomplished so much! There is an army of people praying, and I know that really really helps! Glen and I are pulling for you! Love, Jeni, and Glen Gaston.
Praying for you and Rick today and in the coming days that the Lord will surround you with His Love and Presence and Comfort. Praying also for Him to guide the surgeon’s hands. You are never alone.
Prayers for the doctors to have the wisdom and skill to get Nick through the surgery with the best outcome. Prayers for strength for you and your family to keep positive and walk with him through his recovery.
Prayers for Nick that all will be well and prayers for you as well because the hardest thing to be is a caregiver who wants so much to have your loved one back and enjoy the “best that’s yet to come”. God bless you both and hold you in his hand๐๐
Sending positive thoughts, prayers and hoping for a speedy recovery when it’s all done ! Just wished I lived closer so I could be cooking for you when needed !!!
This explains so much. When you only see him once a year at Road To California and he has physically changed like this. I’m grateful you have an answer and also our prayers. God bless.
Prayers from Campbellsport, Wi. Although we’ve never met, I feel like I know you from following you on email. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Hoping someday to get to your store. God Bless.
Oh my! I missed Nick at the Houston Quilt Show!! Please know that so many many of us really care about you and Nick and your families. Praying that God will give the Dr’s skill in removing this tumor and that all of the problems involved will be solved. God is the Great Physician and only He can give you the peace and calm during this time. Just ask him!! Please keep us updated. Nick is so cute, funny, kind and even remembers when I revisit your booth!! I pray that you will have him around for many more years. Our 54 wedding anniversary is on Thurs. I know I still want Jack around for a long long time.
Please everyone pray for Houston. The 9000 at the convention center where we enjoy the quilt show is only a portion of the people evacuated. It is truly a phenomenal disaster of huge proportions. We have had 33″ of rain -my husband loves his new digital rain gauge! we have had no water in our neighborhood and even the streets haven’t flooded. We feel blessed. Like a minister at our church said–ok -those of us who are high and dry need to get ready to put on our boots and help those who weren’t. True!! Houston is a terrific city where neighbor always helps neighbor!!
Praying for you and Nick and for an amazing recovery!!
My Dear Lisa and Nick, i will pray for you and your family. I can’t imagine but I know its times like these our faith must be strong. Prayers for you all
Please know that you ,Nick and the family are in my thoughts and heart. This must be so hard but together you will get through it. We just celebrated our 45th anniversary and even though day to day may not seem so, as you say, we want to be together always. You guys are not done yet. This will be a big bump in the road and make you both stronger than ever! Think how crazy you can drive each other when he is well and you are on teaching break!!! .love,ethelann
Lisa, I too just read your post and am praying that the surgery went well and Nick is in recovery. Thoughts and prayers coming to you both. Remember to take care of yourself too, as you are as important to Nick as he is to you. I am also sending prayers to the effected areas of Texas. Hugs to you and Nick from Michigan.
I met your son once in Daytona. I only hope
To come to one of your retreats. I’ve had 2 back surgeries but this is a bit much for anyone. As long as you have the best docs and prognosis is good he will be in gods hands. Long road ahead but know that all of us who know and adore you can only hope for the best and my thoughts and prayers to you and yours.
With warmest regards
Linda Franklin.
Praying for you and Nick! I do believe in the power of prayer and as an operating room nurse my prayers are very specific for you all!!! God I thank you for your great love for us, your children. I thank you for excellent doctors and surgeons, and nurses taking care of Nick right now!! I am reminded of your faithfulness to us and using all things, the good and the bad to draw us closer to your side!! Continue to wrap your arms around Lisa and her family right now–let her know she is not forgotten or alone. That you’ve guided the hands of her surgeon and will continue to bring health and healing back to Nicks body!! Let her know people from all over that she doesn’t know well re lifting her up in prayer because of your great love for her!! Thank you Lord for Lisa and Nick–thank you for your care over them! I ask this in the mighty name of Jesus who gives us the authority to ask and who loves us so!! Amen. I will be keeping you in my prayers Lisa, I know you’ve had a lot that you’ve had to walk thru–He is faithful! –Sue Mills (MI)
Of course I would pray for you both. This is a serious time for each of you. Having gone through something serious with my husband a Year ago. Every kind word, every prayer, every friend is a very good thing for all the family. Blessings and be brave, think positive, Anne Ontario, Canada
Lisa, my prayers go out to you and to Nick! God works miracles every single day! Please keep us all posted and I’m praying that you and Nick will grow old and grey together! Hang in there. We will look for your next email.
Hugs,
Rose Ann at Quilter’s Emporium in Houston (we are high and dry)
You have me in tears! Remain strong for him! We will all be praying for a successful surgery, a full recovery and your man holdin you safe in his arms again.
Sincerely,
Cathy from BC, Canada
My love to both of you. I read FB first so I know things are going well. I appreciate your comments about wanting/needing someone; yours is one of those special relationships. Thank you for sharing so much of it with us in these posts. Respect for your comforting remarks to Houston as you are going through this yourself.
Prayers coming your way until this is under control. So thankful this was discovered and that surgery is being performed. My cousin’s wife had this, wasn’t diagnosed for many many years and while surgery helped, the affects of the massive adrenaline on her body took a terrible toll on both her physical and mental health. God bless you both and your family. We’re waiting for better news. Love from Iowa.
I can see you sitting there reading all these posts. I hope it helps your day go quickly and the hours pass by so fast . The nurse in me knows whats involved with nick’s surgery. I spent my whole career in the operating room/surgery/ICU. My stress reliever was you !!! Finding quilting and crafts. So I know he will be fine….thoughts and prayers to both of you and all your family. Take care of yourself cause you will be taking care of Nick and need to be ready for that !๐
Loving you and Nick and asking God to keep you both in His caring arms and lift you up to Him who has the power to do a complete healing. Also, praying for the people affected by Harvey. We can thank Him for all things because He has his reasons for doing what he does and don’t think satan doesn’t get in there and try to side track us – he usually does his best when we are vulnerable. God bless you and know you are loved.
I had surgery last April for the same kind of tumor… attached to both optic nerves and pituitary gland and right carotid artery it was about the same size but there must not have been as much involvement of Pituitary as I didn’t have all the growth issues. Will pray for your husband. I lost 25 % of vision in my right eye and issues with forgetting words, but no complaints here. Maybe we can do some kind of donations to quilters that lost their sewing rooms. Not sure how that would be organized but that’s for later. Prayer Warriors today. Thank you for letting us know. Jane
Thoughts, prayers, and wishes for a speedy recovery for Nick. Love, thoughts, prayers for you — it’s hard to watch your best friend and companion go through health issues. Looking forward to seeing you in Houston in November.
My Husband had a Stroke in his Intestines 2 years ago and I know a lot of what you are feeling Just put it in Gods Hands and except what he says It will all be OK By the way God wasn’t ready for my husband so he may not be ready for Nick to come his way either Praying for you all
Thank you for being so vulnerable and allowing us into your innermost thoughts. You and Nick have given so much to us quilters…we all will pray, think of you often, and wait to hear good news.
I am so sorry to hear this. You are both in my prayers. You tell Nick I can’t wait till he is better so I can see him at some of the quilt shows. He always appreciates that I use my husband’s Cabelas’s visa for the purchases. Take care.
Praying for a 100% recovery. So sad about our coastline and Houston. Years before things are back to normal. We were lucky our area missed the bullet. Keep us informed on hubby’s progress.
Thoughts and prayers for you and your family during this time, as well as for those in Texas. I’m sure there are a lot of us out here standing with you and for you and Nick. We will be anxious to hear that all is well.
My thoughts are with you. I hope he comes out with flying colors. Having great doctors makes a world of difference-my husband had two strokes and if it weren’t for his great doctors and a great Rehab center here I hate to think where he would be now. We are in Houston in one of the very few areas that haven’t flooded-we are so lucky. But watching TV it is just such a tragedy for so many others.
I will pray for you n your hubby. This is a very difficult time for you n I do understand your “want” of him. May God keep him n you safe. May the nurses n doctors do their very best to help him n you. Pat Simington. Fellow quilter
Many prayers for your Nick, and for you, Lisa. May God guide his doctors in surgery and in his recovery. Also God bless the victims of Harvey and keep them safe. Things can be replaced – people can’t.
Dear Lisa,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and Nick at this anxious time. Take time to breathe deeply and visualise him now as whole and well and feel what that feels like. Fill your heart with thankfulness for this as if it has already come to pass. (And for the wonderful man that he is.) Give thanks, too for the amazing doctors you have. They are indeed a gift to you both at this time.
I have been following you on your blog for some time all the way from Melbourne, Australia. I love your generosity and kindness. And now is the time we can send some love back to you.
Kind regards, Jeanette W.
Lisa, my thoughts and prayers are with both you
and Nick. Please God watch over you all and
guide the surgeons as they do their best in
surgery.
I have been around Nick very little only at quilt shows but he is delightful and very helpful.
He will come through this with flying colors and
all husbands say these things at times if only for
our attention!! Little boys need approval and
nurturing at times- they surely Do Not Mean
It! Hugs and prayers.
By the time I read this, the surgery was over and hopefully 100% successful.. I will add you and Nick to my prayer list for a speedy recovery. Glad to hear that the dr. found the cause of his symptoms.
Prayers and positive thoughts for you and Nick. And heartfelt sympathy for Texas. I live in Eastern NC and know first hand the devastating power of a flood.
Lisa…32 years ago my husband was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor. It was Cushing’s syndrome/ disease. He was working out every day and still gaining weight …nothing was helping. He had a moon face, a bit of a hump between his shoulders and a torso that looked like it was pumped full of air. He was producing over 200% of the cortisone he should have been producing. Luckily we had a doctor in Tulsa who was familiar with the symptoms.
He had all but 10 % of his pituitary removed…just enough to be compatible with life. He takes cortisone replacement every day and is absolutely fine.
I guess mypoint is….medicine becomes more refined every day. Treatments that weren’t able to do done before are the new norm.
Hugs to you and know that everyone’s who’s life you’ve touched is pulling for you.
I’m sure nick is in great hands and will pull through with flying colors.
Lots of prayers coming your way — for today and for the upcoming few weeks of recovery. My son’s father-in-law went through this exact surgery 5 years ago – with a 5cm tumor – benign and he has been SOOOOOO healthy every since. YOU CAN DO THIS!!! Nick will feel so much better, have his strength and his body back ! Sending big hugs and lots of love to you both —- I believe in miracles and know God still sends them daily!
Lisa, first of all big hugs! My husband and I are prayer warriors, we will be lifting up you and you husband as you go thru this journey in life. Please keep us updated and know that you are being lifted up for comfort and healing.
Prayers for you and your family, especially your husband. From one who also feels especially blessed to have come through the Houston floods. God is good
There are so many comments…showing how much you are loved!!! I wanted to tell you that I will be praying, not to a “who or what”, but the One Who created all of us (His so needy “dust people”) because of His need to express a love that we aren’t able to comprehend the depth of. Praying for wisdom and skillfulness for the medical staff and His strength and peace for you (and your family). He just waits ready to pour His best into our lives. Sending uber hugs your way……….
Hi Lisa from Brisbane Australia. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time for your family. It’s wonderful that you have an answer and it can be rectified. Stay strong. Big hugs ๐๐
Prayers for a successful surgery and a safe and speedy recovery. For both of you. Seeing a loved one go through something like this is very hard on the body and the spirit. Both of you take care.
Prayers for you both for comfort, the doctors to be given the skill and wisdom needed, for recovery, and for many more years together to enjoy the blessings! ๐
Praying really hard for you and Nick. And you are right about the needing him vs wanting him. You see, I lost my husband 7 months ago. Although I am finding I am strong and can do all this on my own, I still would want him to be by my side to enjoy all the things we worked for through our time together! He will pull through and will recover better than ever and your wish will come true! The whole quilting world is pulling for you. โค๏ธ
Hi Lisa ….. just had to reply to this email …. my son had this surgery 11 years ago …. he was in his 30’s and is now 47 …. he came through the surgery well …. had 6/8 weeks off work …. he has to have yearly checkups with his specialists where they measure what is left of his pituitary gland and the bit of tumor they couldn’t get .. eventually he will have to have r/therapy to get rid of the rest of the tumor … so thinking of you and hoping all goes well …. regards Liz xx
Lisa, I so wish you and your husband the best with his surgery. What a difficult time you have been going through, but still kept the creative juices flowing. You are one amazing lady. I pray your husband recovers well and returns to the man you have loved your whole life. My husband had a very scary illness that took him away from me for months. But he worked hard with doctors and he is once again the man I fell in love with. I wish you goodness and hope you will take each day with the strength you have always shown. Also find some quality time for Lisa!will watch for your updates!๐๐
Lisa, I am so sorry to hear what you and your husband are going through. I will continue to pray for you and him, that God will give you strength, courage and peace of mind. God will be with you two every step of the way,continue to look to Him. Praying for a complete and speedy recovery. You have touched many lives with your talent and I thank you for sharing your love of quilting.
It goes without saying that my thoughts and prayers are with you and Nick. Many of us need and want both of you to be happy, healthy and “around” for a very, very long time.
Just read this and although it’s way past time when Nick’s surgery must be over, I’m saying prayers that he came through fine and is in his way to a complete and speedy recovery!
โค๏ธ
Just read this and although it’s way past time when Nick’s surgery must be over, I’m saying prayers that he came through fine and is in his way to a complete and speedy recovery!
โค๏ธ
Praying for you both. Trust surgery went well and God has everything under control. Blessings for speedy recovery on both surgeries. Glad you finally know what the problem was.
I pray that God keeps Nick in his care and blesses him with a speedy recovery and road to good health. I also pray that God keeps you strong Lisa. Love to you from Lakewood, CA
Lisa and Nick – How stressful to have gone so long without knowing what’s wrong. Thankfully you were able to find out. I’ll be praying for surgical success, a full recovery and a sense of peace in the process.
To our Texas friends – Sending you love and prayers that the rain stops and water subsides so you can begin to rebuild and move forward with your lives. My heart hurts for you all.
Oh my goodness. You certainly have grace under fire. I wouldn’t be able to function. All the best to you, Nic, and your family. Prayers for the best possible recovery and some relief from the stress. Your faith in God will see you through, along with all these prayers!
I get it boy do I understand. I will spend my day sewing and with each stitch I will be grateful for my ability to sew today and offer a prayer for those in harms way.
And for Nick- Lord thank you for revealing the true issue needing to be resolved to restore Nick’s health. Please bring healing and comfort to both Nick and Lisa. Wrap your loving arms around them
Amen
Hello, you don’t know me but I’ve been following your blog from the UK. I prayed for Nick and you before the surgery and really hope all went well, and that he makes a good, strong, recovery.
Praying that God heals him completely with the aid of excellent doctors and the love of his family and friends. Lisa, you have a bazillion friends that you have touched through the years, know that we will be praying for you too! โฅ๏ธ๐ชโฅ๏ธ๐
Lisa and Nick…Dale and I hope all of your prayers were answered yesterday and that Nick is on his way to a complete recovery today. Hugs and continuing prayers!
I had that same kind of tumor over 30 years ago and at the time had to go to Stanford to have it removed. They used fiber optics to see it and knocked it off leaving it for my body to absorb. The pressure on my pitutary gland was causing all sorts of hormonal problems like not having my period for one and within one year after the surgery I got pregnant. Yay! I remember that it took about a month to fully recover, but I still have numbness in my mouth and a dead tooth where they entered with the tool that removed it. Quit remarkable how such a small thing can affect your body. Get well quick Nick!
Most definitely he is in our prayers. And I know how you want and need him. Lost my hubby a year ago after 48 years of marriage and five years of dating before that and the loss still hurts today. I miss him so. I am claiming victory over Nick and anxiously awaiting the good news that he is fine. Lisa and Little Man need you, as well as the whole family. Nick. A speedy recovery to you.
Also I have a brother-in-law and his family in Houston. This is the third time in a couple years he has been hit. This is by far the worse one……..not sure what if anything they will go home to. Prayers and donations to one of the many agencies helping the cause is important.
Thoughts and prayers for you and family……we all need our loved ones no matter how strong we are individually for they are the foundation of strength that the Good Lord sent us to draw from. I am reading this late in the day so hopefully Nick is back in recovery doing well. God Bless and take care!
Prayers coming your way for you, Nick, and your family. God bless the surgeons and physicians and their capable hands that will be caring for Nick.
Stay strong Lisa.
Lisa n nick
We lost our son at 16 years of age in a tragic accident. Something you never think will happen to you but it does. I gave up prayers and gave up on God till our Priest that we love so very much asked me as a favor to him to pray at least one our father everyday of which I did but not very nicely. One day while saying my our father it hit me hard and I broke down that without God I would have never had my son in the first place. I was very grateful to have him for 16 years. I can tell u now I pray every opportunity I get. I will also tell you if God takes you to it he WILL get you through it.
You have been in my prayers since your first mention of needing them. I have attended your wool workshop n have learned so much. I wanted to pass onto you n nick what I have learned. Much prayers.
I keep waiting for Lisa to post something after the surgery. Have you seen any updates?
I made it into the quilt retreat. Looks like 32 are signed up. Details are to come Friday or Saturday. Talk about efficient. I mailed my form Tuesday and I know Thursday. WOW
On Tue, Aug 29, 2017 at 9:01 AM, Lisa Bongean’s Weblog wrote:
> lisabongean posted: ” I have kind of given you a scrap of info that we are > going through something “big” and today is the day…Nick is going to be > having “brain” surgery for a 3cm tumor that is attached to the pituitary > gland and causing all kinds of issues that we have b” >
Sending love,strength and the warmest of wishes to you, Nick and your family for positive outcomes from the surgery today.
Believe all will be ok.
Leanne
Melbourne
Australia
Lisa, I have a friend whose son had the same surgery and all went very well as it will for your husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Praying for a great recovery! Sounds like he did ok with the surgery. My daughter has a tumor in same spot. After she had been married a couple of years, wanting to get pregnant they discovered it. Hormones are way out of whack. No surgery option for her, maybe it is still too small to bother with? Similar situation with weight gain etc. Hard as she works out, the weight just keeps climbing. ๐ I know how hard this is. Praying for you both.
I don’t blog. Your sharing of you and Nick’s struggle has tough me. The hurricane path to the medical the causes is hopefully resolved. Now recover and hope like TEXAS will happen for you, Nick, and your family. I don’t pray alot, but you, Nick and Texas have help me to keep praying. So my hopes, wishes and PRAYS to all especially Nick
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