Friday, October 8, 2021
It is 10 a.m. and I am sitting here wondering what today will bring. Diane worked her usual magic and got my appointment moved from October 14th to today at 6 p.m., so we will be heading out to Iowa City in an hour or so. It is amazing how, in the throes of all this, life inextricably moves forward. This morning it was a trip to the dry cleaner and then the bank and a couple of loads of wash to be done for good measure. I did all this alone.
So, where was Diane? She was on the phone where she spends most of her time these days in a ceaseless quest to get things done in the most efficient and expedient manner humanly possible. In addition to getting my appointment moved to today, she is trying to retrieve records from my procedure done in Cape Coral, Florida, in March 2010 for base of tongue cancer as Mayo wants them as they continue to evaluate my case before deciding whether or not to “accept” me. It is a bit like being a senior in high school waiting to see if you are going to get into your college of choice. Diane talks to folks at Mayo, in Burlington, and Iowa City, Iowa, and Northwestern attempting to get things in order for second or maybe even third opinions. I am not mentally equipped to do any of this so fortunate to have Diane “in my corner.” Did I forget to add grateful? When I was out walking at 6 this morning, I thought, with the exception of actually undergoing the PET Scan or MRI or whatever the “treatment of the day” is, Diane has been way more involved. I’m just the patient.
The past ten days have gone by slowly, very slowly. There has been yard work to do, and some general upkeep completed by our friendly neighborhood contractor. We’ve watched football and post-season baseball. In addition, we enjoyed the fourth season of Goliath starring Billy Bob Thornton. We binged this series, viewing all eight one-hour episodes in a single day. We do try to keep our minds occupied.
As I close for today, I can’t help but wonder, “Is today the day we have a procedure (MRI) that will finally give us answers regarding my immediate mortality, be it good news or bad?” The journey continues.
Saturday, October 9, 2021
Back home in Macomb and our own bed tonight. Yesterday proved to be a long day. Iowa City was chaotic as it was the scene of Iowa/Penn State football game, so revelers were arriving. We got to at the hospital at 5 p.m. for a 6:00 procedure. It went without a hitch but lasted from 6:15-7:15 and oh so noisy. The MRI machine is very loud. Suddenly, it felt like 2010 all over again as they put me on my back and fastened a mask over my face so I couldn’t move. This would be an awful experience if you suffer from claustrophobia, which thankfully, I don’t.
Exhausted when we returned to the hotel so, of course, it was pajama time and then DATELINE. Today we attended the wedding of the wonderful man, who has produced all 300 of my local access tv shows, and his lovely and talented bride. We got back to Macomb at 5 p.m. and must admit, again, we are just “spent” and really tired. I can only guess it is the unrelenting pressure of “one crisis after another” for three-plus months.
It is our understanding that the results will come our way sometime next week. We don’t know if that will be via a phone call or personal appointment back in Iowa City. We are at the juncture where there is probably no more guessing as the MRI should definitively answer the question—”What is it?” The doctors will, we hope, tell us what lies ahead and how we should best proceed. The hours will continue to drag on but at least, in terms of some sort of end game, we will know precisely what we are facing.
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
We were hoping that yesterday would find us getting a call with results of MRI but no such luck. Consequently, it was another day of waiting and try as we will, that is simply not an easy exercise. It rained all day Monday so no walk for me and quite a bit of painting for Diane. It was just a pretty gloomy day except the most recent painting is beginning to blossom into another Diane Taylor work of art to brighten things up at 35 Indian Trail.
Today will be a look on the bright side as it is sunny crisp day that will bring us some good news—right? Actually, I’m somewhat optimistic though there is no medical reason for me to feel this way. For the life of me, I actually will be a little surprised if the results show cancer as since this sad adventure began, fast forwarding to the “hot spot” of September 1st and discounting the neck/pneumonia/PEG regimen of June and July when I was literally beside myself with pain and frustration, Gordy Taylor has been feeling pretty damn good. Now, for English majors among you, that stream of consciousness last sentence would be for the readers of William Faulkner, known for his long, very long sentences.
It would seem odd to me that I would feel fine if cancer is in my neck/head or wherever MRI explored and not feeling anything bad. For a while, I would wake up in the morning waiting for severe pain or blurred vision or something but to date, nothing, so will continue to hope for the best. As I type this upstairs, Diane is downstairs making what she refers to as “THE CALL” to see if results will be forthcoming today. Tick tock, Tick tock, Tick tock….
Wednesday, October 13, 2021
Nope, it didn’t happen!! Diane and I have been given a new date as to when information will be forthcoming. It can’t be soon enough. “They” called yesterday afternoon to inform us that a group meeting of specialists will be held Friday morning to discuss the results of the MRI. These doctors have independently reviewed the results, and they come together to discuss what was found and propose a course of action. I surmise that at this point, Diane and I are told how they collectively recommend we proceed and we go from there.
Today is Wednesday and of course Friday seems like a “new eternity” for us but then suppose we should be getting used to the way all this plays out. Naturally, the important thing is to “get it right” so wait we shall. Diane will paint; I will walk. By the time this concludes, Diane will have painted the equivalent of the Sistine Chapel; I will have walked back and forth across the United States twice.
Gordy and the Fourth Quarter 
Praying for good news!
PS. Loved your painting Diane !❤️
Prayers said for patience and continued resilience. As you take your walks each morning please remember of the thousands of lives you and Diane have touched. It seems like yesterday that I found myself making my way up the stairs of the Alumni house to meet with Cathy Onion. These visits typically included memorable visits with you as well where you always provided encouragement, support and words of wisdom. I will forever be grateful for my many Western mentors, which of course includes you. More prayers said for answers and guidance on how to move forward.
As you know, we are all with you and Diane on this… and whatever the Drs. find & recommend as next steps… will take them one at a time, knowing that you are in the Palm of His Hand… and that our love and prayers are with you, Di and family always!
Positive Vibes!!
John & Kathie
We continue to pray for you and wish you a good phone call on Friday. We will all anxiously wait to learn what’s next.
Diane I love sunflowers. An original sunflower painting from you would be awesome to have and look great hanging here at SolShine! 🙂 Please if you need anything let me know. I will use up my vacation days to come help. Drive, mow, pickup leaves whatever!
Throughout all this agony of waiting, we are able to appreciate your brilliant writing and story telling and Diane’s artistry. You make quite a pair! Sending positive thoughts and love!
Thanks for sharing your journey. Yes, Diane is amazing and her artwork awesome! Rooting for your strength and waiting for physicians and God’s plan to put you back on a more normal and healthy life path!!We are all thinking about ya!!!!
Praying for actual news today and not a waiting game again. Praying that Mayo’s can get what they need and you can get accepted and move forward soon. Diane you are so talented.
Sending positive thoughts for the best possible news on Friday! Diane is a great advocate!
You two are lucky to have each other!
Will be waiting for hear your Friday results. “Let’s get an answer” Our thoughts are with you. Diane and Terry Newell should open an art gallery in Macomb. Prayers with you Gordy.
Waiting is the worst. We continue to think of you often and offer up prayers for positive outcomes.
Praying for positive feedback on Friday. Sending you both our love. Diane, the lilac painting turned out super great.
Prayers are still Gordy et al.
Diane is very talented and her painting is beautiful. I am so sorry that you keep getting excruciatingly delayed. If I can help any way with the doctor in the Cape, let me know. I have no idea how Diane was able to get several doctors from different hospitals to discuss your treatment. She is definitely a miracle worker.
❤️🙏”The Taylors “
We are here for you Gordy!!!
Waiting is so hard! Prayers for peace as you endure the hours. Diane, your painting is beautiful!!
Sounds very familiar. For approx. 15 years after my father was diagnosed with colon cancer, his wife researched doctors, treatments, tracked medical experts, and supported all his medical needs. I’m a firm believer he lived at least 10 years longer than anyone ever expected, which can be attributed to her dedicated efforts and his resolve to be the good and positive patient. The roles sound very similar and proved very successful. Hang in there, you have so many praying for you!!
Praying for both of you. God has all of this in his hands.
My prayers continue for both of you. 🙏🙏
Well, the meeting of the minds is a good sign. At age 16, I was paraded in front of those Drs at Mayo. It was experimental at that time since Open Heart Surgery was just beginning. These people know what they ar3 doing and it’s a group effort, not just one guessing. Let’s hope that they have a solution for you. Best as always friend.
What’s the name of the Tom Hanks movie in which he runs and runs and runs?
Do you have long hair and a beard yet??
Love you Brother!
You are two very talented and beloved people, not necessarily in that order! Best wishes as you wait for an answer.
Thank you for sharing your journey. Prayers for good news on Friday. May God continue to give you strength and peace.
It sounds like you are in good hands, slow but good! Love the painting, Diane!
Wish I knew the right words to comfort you. We think of you often, hoping for the best and looking forward to your blogs. So appreciate your honest and positive attitudes. Keep walking and painting. With love and caring.
Keeping you and Diane close in my thoughts and heart. You both are such amazing people. Diane – keep painting and Gordy keep walking and writing!
Hope the news is good on Friday. You deserve some. In the meantime, you have a great corner person!
Prayers are with you Gordy. I would be cheered up as well, looking at Diann’s art!
I imagine the waiting must be agony.
Diane, Brooke and I are so impressed by your painting skills!
Take care, Gordy and Diane. You are in our prayers.
So much to do, and then all you can do is wait and wait. I hope things go your way on Friday. It’s your turn for some good news!
You are both such remarkable people! The news has to be good!
Your blogs are more addicting than a Netflix series! Holding positive thoughts…
Sending all my best thoughts as you continue on this journey; you and Diane make a very strong team. I hope that you hear good news about the next plan of action. How fitting that you are a walker…as this health journey does have you concentrating on just putting one foot in front of the other as you wait for more news. Sending prayers for both of you.
So, the journey continues. Hang in there, my friends.
Gordy when I went thru my issues I also found it very important to share the feelings I was experiencing to help others understand but more importantly to help relieve myself. Keep it coming we’re with you and Diane al the way.
Gordy, thanks for your update. Maybe by now you have heard something. Waiting must really be the pits. Glad to hear you are no worse. Sending all my prayers and good wishes 🙏❣️.
Diane, you are a saint. Gordy is so lucky to have you. I love your painting. Hopefully good news very soon.👍🙏
Keeping you both in our thoughts and prayers. Love you both. Try to stay positive, but we know its difficult.