A Sister's Visit

Hi there.

My name is Gretchen and I am one of Kristine's sisters. I just wanted to fill in a few blanks for all of Kristine's friends and family who have been patiently and not so patiently waiting for her next blog. I totally understand the frustration that you all have been experiencing since I too have been waiting for an update.

Before I begin, I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you for all of the support you have given my sister over the many months that she has been enduring this constant roller coaster. I can't begin to express how much the love and support has meant, not only to Kristine, but to her family as well.

I met with Kristine last night at the Miami Airport. YES, SHE IS FINALLY HOME!!!! Even before her friend, Jane, had to leave Ecuador, Kristine realized that staying on her own was not a feasible option. The Oleander juice that she had been drinking on and off during her stay, had many of the same side effects that chemo had on her. It made her very weak and unable to do many things on her own, which made staying there unaccompanied very difficult. In addition to being weak, she is emotionally raw, crying at the slightest emotional encounter. This too is another symptom of the treatment she has been receiving. She has lost some motor skills in her left arm and leg. It is very difficult for her to maneuver herself in and out of a vehicle, up the stairs as well type her daily/weekly blog among other things. Hopefully, Ryan will be giving us some updates when he is able.

To say the least, my 2 hour visit with Kristine was not nearly long enough. It was very difficult for me to watch her walk away, not knowing when I would be seeing her next. Living far apart has been difficult for our whole family. We all wish that we lived much closer so that we could support not only Kristine and Ryan, but each other.

While she is still very weak, please remember that she is still the same strong-willed firecracker that will not ask for help even when she needs it the most. At this point in time, Kristine is in need of the same positive love and support you all have been delivering these past many months.

Thank you again.

g