The latest from Reno

Today I've spoken with both Justin and Leslie. Carol is much calmer today. Justin says they've gotten a good system of keeping her medications regulated. She's on a rotating schedule of morphine, Dilaudid and Valium. If not given at regular intervals, the pain gets out of control. The sad part is that when the meds wear off, Carol is lucid, but then the pain is too much to bear. It's just not worth it.

Carol will remain at home and be cared for there. Until Monday, Justin and "staff" will take turns staying with her through the night. Starting Monday, a nurse will be on duty in two shifts: 1 - 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. - 8 a.m. Justin has taken time out of work (without pay) to be with his mother. The family would really like Justin to stay on, without jeopardizing his finances.

This brings me to money matters. The fundraiser on August 31st is off. However, anyone who planned on sending Carol money, PLEASE still do. The nurses are costing $240 per day. This is not covered by her medical insurance, get this, because it hasn't been 3 months since her diagnosis!!!! Also, any money raised will go toward helping offset Justin's expenses, and will enable him to stay and care for his mom.

Any cards already sent to me, I will forward to Reno. Any cards you send in the future, send directly to Carol's house and make the checks out to: June Grocki.

Carol's address is:
Carol Hardy
1907 Villa Way South
Reno, NV 89509

Thanks so much,
Ellen