28th February 2009-Goodbye February. HELLO March!

A month has just passed by. It has been an interesting February.

Many things happened. I won't say it was all GREAT! It's not all that BAD too. The challenges that I faced throughout the month of February has made me a stronger person. I thank God for guiding me through and for being there just to keep me strong. :)

Tomorrow will be the first day of March. There are a few dates for me to look forward to in March.

2nd March- Daddy going for his first Qi Gong class.

6th March- My dad's 2nd check up & EE WEN'S BIRTHDAY!

20th March- Ee Wen's home coming.

23rd-26th March- Our (Han & I) long awaited holiday.

30th March- Daddy's Birthday! (Well, he said that he has a new birth date, that is 3rd February. We will celebrate his new "birth date" next year.)

I'm looking forward to the dates above. Well, time flies. So I will also appreciate every day as it passes by.

Tomorrow is also HRU's first time organizing a treasure hunt. 

ALL THE BEST to the hunters participating and also the hunters organizing it! :)

Here's a photo of the new bed that my dad bought for himself. The verdict: Better sleep! :)

My mum "enjoying" the bed while waiting for my dad to call it a day.

My dad composing a post to be posted up on his blog. He has yet to post it up so I can't link it. Do go to this blog to see his latest post! :) The bar table has turned to his "laptop table". He likes the height of the stool. 

27th February 2009- YES YOU CAN!

I haven't had time to update my blog lately. Many apologies.

My dad has been progressing well. He has been doing a lot of trial & error to see what type of food gives him discomfort and he will just avoid whatever food that gives him discomfort. He also got a new bed for himself. It's like the ones they have at the hospital. This is so that he can sleep comfortably. Well, it's his first night trying it out. We'll see what the verdict is tomorrow. :)

My dad's friend has also given him a list of food that he can consume. I call it the "Vincent Woo's food list/menu". I'll revamp it for him so that it doesn't look so depressing to see so many "Xs" on the paper. Perhaps design some recipe for my mum to cook/make for my dad. Make everything more colourful. 

Hey, who said you can't have fun while you are going through tough times? :)

A lot has been happening lately to my personal & corporate life. It did irritate me but I know that it's the reality and I have to face it & solve it. After all, I've only been working for almost 3 years, I think there is like 10x more to come.  Will just have to pray for guidance every day.

My colleague forwarded an e-mail to me which I find very touching & motivating. 

It's about a father & son (Dick & Rick Hoyt). 

Here is the message from the e-mail:

A true story; 

One day, a son asks his dad "Daddy, would you like to run a marathon with me?". 

The father says "yes". And they ran their first marathon together.
Another time, the son asks his dad again "Daddy, would you like to run a marathon with me?".
The father says "Yes son."
One day, the son asks his father " Daddy, would you run the Ironman with me?"
[The Ironman is the most difficult triathlon ever ( 4 kms swimming, 180 kms biking, 42 km running )]
And the dad says "Yes". 

Watch this clip and clips that are related to it. You will be inspired to be strong and you will see just how amazing God & love can be.

Just remember, whatever obstacles come your way, He will always be there. 

24th February 2009-A visit from Malacca

I went for Ash Wednesday vigil mass today with my in-laws after work.

When I came back, I was surprised to see my dad's treasure hunt mates. This time with an additional hunter from Malacca, Uncle Johnny. He is actually a good friend of my dad. I've known him since I was 12? or is it younger than that? 

Well, with no surprise, his first words when he saw me "WAH! So big already ar?"

Perhaps the last he saw me I was less than 5 feet tall. :P My dad's other treasure hunt mates answered him.. "Married woman already lar." hahaha.. Time flies! 

Uncle Johnny told my dad to just have faith. Forget about the past, it's all said & done. Now look forward and just make a decision that you are comfortable with. I'm sure my dad has all of that in his mind. Well, I guess some things are easier said than done. I don't blame my dad for having some negative thoughts/feelings/doubts in him but with so much support from his family & friends, he will just have to keep reminding himself to POWER THROUGH! 

My dad is progressing well. He noticed that he don't have to catch his breath so often now when he talks. That's a WONDERFUL sign of recovery. He will just have to introduce exercise to his life, so that his lungs will open up more. 

My dad talking to Uncle Johnny. 

The moment I came back, my dad made a sign that says take a picture! hahaha. I'm now my dad's official photographer whenever his friends come over. :)

Here's the treasure hunting gang! (besides my mum) The 3 hunters on my dad's left side are my dad's regular team mates. Their team is named Hunters "R" Us. In short, HRU. I'm sure my dad can't wait to get back into the treasure hunting world. I'm also sure that he will join them soon! :)

During mass, our priests told us to reflect during this Lenten season on "How we have hurt others for our own benefit?", "Who killed Jesus?" and "Who benefited from Jesus' death?"

I think it's a very good topic for me to reflect for the next 42 days. If you ask me now, I would say, I hardly hurt anyone but I'm sure there is somewhere somehow, I've hurt someone with my words, actions or by doing nothing. I shall reflect on this throughout this whole season of Lent.

One of the hymns sung tonight reminded me of my kindergarten days. I used to perform at my kindergarten concert. I'm not sure why (well, I don't seem to remember anything that happened from 8 years old and below). But when I went to Ireland, my cousin heard this song on the radio and exclaimed "Hey! Do you remember performing this last time?" 

When I saw my photos, then it clicked! Perhaps I was called to follow Him even when I was in kindergarten. :)

Here is the lyrics to the song that put a smile on my face this evening.

I once thought that love was meant for anyone else but me,

I once thought no one knows the way,

Now that only goes to show how wrong we all can be,

'cause now it seems He loves me more each day.

His love is warmest than the warmest sunshine,

softer than a sigh,

Deeper than the deepest ocean,

wider than the sky.

His love is brighter than the brightest star that shines every night above,

and there is nothing in this world that can ever change His love.

Something happened to my heart the day I met Him,

something that I've never felt before.

And that something is that He has buried all my sins,

and everyday it seems He loves me more.

His love is warmest than the warmest sunshine,

softer than a sigh,

Deeper than the deepest ocean,

wider than the sky.

His love is brighter than the brightest star that shines every night above,

and there is nothing in this world that can ever change His love.

-His Love-

23rd February 2009 - A surprise visit from Hong Kong

To begin my post for today. Let me just write a little on yesterday. 

Han & I brought my dad to church yesterday. It was his first time attending mass in a Catholic church (besides my wedding). Well, I hope he had a good experience. To us, it was just bringing my dad there so that he can attend mass. It doesn't matter which road he takes after this experience.

My dad is sorting out his diet. He has some discomfort once in a while. So he is trying to cut out whatever food that gives him discomfort. 

Today, my dad had a surprise visit. Susan Kan (my youngest aunty, Aunty Jennifer's good friend) came to visit. She is from Hong Kong. She went to my parent's place but failed to see them at there. Luckily my parents' neighbour, Mr. Chua was outside and he guided them to my place.

It was indeed a pleasant surprise for my parents to have her come all the way to pay us a visit. Unfortunately, I was at work. Would have been nice to snap a photo of her. :)

My dad feels much better today. He went back to his place and played with the 2 furry creatures. My mum said that both of them were so happy to see him. My dad gave them both a good rub and groomed them. I assured my mum that they are clean as I have given them a good bath on Saturday.

Uncle Kien Ping & Aunty Lilian dropped by in the evening. Uncle Kien Ping helped my dad order a bed that is similar to the ones that the hospital has. My dad needs the electronic foldable bed so that he can get a good sleep. Hopefully the bed will be delivered to our house soon.

My dad had more guests. KL Tan & wife are now downstairs talking to my parents. :) KL Tan is my dad's ex-treasure hunt mate. They do stay in touch and remained good friends even after KL Tan retired from treasure hunting.

The fruit basket that KL Tan & wife gave.

My dad explaining his health condition. He must have repeated this many times but each time I hear him explaining it in a different way but the message is the same. My dad is always innovative in these things. You can put a message across in different ways. 

21st February 2009-Decisions

I had a long day. 

I went back to my parents' place to help my mum out with the housework. Usually I would be greeted by 3 furry creatures. However today, there were only 2 jumping around. One was struggling to stand up. The moment I saw Pingu, I knew that there isn't much time left.

I decided to give her a good bath. A lot of thoughts came to my mind while I was attending to her. I dealt with the other two dogs after I finish attending to Pingu until Han came and pick me up to send Pingu to the vet. We decided to do an enema first.

On the other hand, my dad had some difficulty passing motion. My mum attended to him immediately and soon after, he manage to discard the waste. :)

I told my dad about Pingu's health condition. My dad then gave me the authority to make a decision. I felt the responsibility & burden all stacked on me.I don't know which road I should take. I don't blame my dad for giving me this role as I understand his health condition too. Perhaps this is his way to teach me how to make decisions. I can't always depend on him to make the decisions.

My dad then told Han & I about his decision & the road that he wish to take to fight this battle. We heard him out and we respect his decision. We will support him all the way through and help him at all times.

My dad had visitors today. His UOB ex-colleagues. Thank you all for dropping by. I could see that my dad was very happy to have his ex-boss, Mr. Wong over. My dad even asked me to wait for him to come before I go out for lunch. Well, all of my dads' ex-colleagues who came were telling me the last time they saw me was when I was a little girl. haha.. TIME FLIES! :)

My dads' UOB ex-colleagues & their family members. 

This round of visitors did not sit on the stairs. haha. 

Many thoughts came to my mind throughout the day. I spoke to Han about it and he gave me his point of view. Spoke to my parents again just before going to the vet to see Pingu. My parents both have the same view but different opinions on how we should do the burial.

I have been the one who wanted her to come back after her operation in June 2007. The Dr gave us two options then. To put her to sleep or to keep her and feed her the best food that we can afford. I chose to keep her & my dad agreed. We kept her and her health has improved. However, at one point, her health started to deteriorate. Today is the day to decide again what the Dr proposed 1.8 years ago. 

We have decided to put her to sleep tomorrow. She will be put to rest at 10am. I met her for one last time and gave her all the love that I can on behalf of my family & those who adored her. I said a prayer and asked God to protect her and bring her to meet Happy & Shaggy (my two other dogs who passed away) in heaven.

I have never thought that something like this would happen as the other two dogs went off naturally. It is a very difficult decision to make. It takes a lot of courage to tell the Dr our decision. However, it is the best for her as she is suffering.

Here's to Pingu. The "human" dog. The tamest & most unselfish dog that we've ever had. She taught me that you don't have to fight with the others in able to get what you want. Just be yourself, you will still be loved & pampered. I love you Pingu. Thank you for coming into our lives. May you rest in peace. 

19th February 2009- Massage away!

My mum & dad has requested for me to massage/rub their backs before they sleep. Every time I massage them, I pray that the pain/burden/ache on their shoulders/back would go away.

Well, lucky thing, I can give a good massage. :) At least they would feel a little better after the massage.

My dad is feeling much better today. Tomorrow will be his first check up since his discharge. We will just have to wait and see what the Dr say his next step should be. My dad has a few questions for the the Dr and he will just have to make the wisest choice after seeing the Dr tomorrow. :)

Today is Han's birthday! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DARLING! I'm sorry that I can't celebrate your birthday this year with you. Hope you'll have a good one with your parents. :) 

18th February 2009-The smell of food

The smell of food puts a smile on my daddy's face. :)

My mum was cooking our dinner (as in for my mum & I) & my dad was standing at the door. He said "Mmmm.. smells nice. Can I have a little taste of it?" 

Well, can't blame him as he has been eating porridge, soup & blended food. So my mum said he can taste the sauce. However, he didn't because the chicken didn't have much sauce.

Here's the chicken that got my dad drooling. Chicken Chop Mummy Woo style. :P

My dad had a number of visitors today. First it was one of my bestie's (Syaza) parents. They came by and gave my dad two boxes of birds nest. Thank you Aunty & Uncle for dropping by & for the thoughtful gift.

Since I wasn't around to take a picture of them. I thought take a picture of their gift! :)

Later in the evening, two of my dad's colleagues came by. I missed them also (was still on my way home). 

Here's the card that they gave. Well if you can strain your eyes a little, it's actually a card with a joke. :) It says. "Vincent, You're Missed At Work. There are people here who know you and like you and want you to get well.. Of course, a lot of others just don't want to get stuck with your work!"  :) 

2 of my dad's treasure hunt team mates came by at night. They brought more grapes! Their purpose was to pick up something from our house. They ended up hanging around and we all had a good chat. :)

My dad made a progress today. He manage to publish a post on his blog! 

Well Done daddy! Keep it up! :)

17th February 2009-What can daddy eat?

My mum & I were discussing what my dad can eat. She told me that my dad threw up today after eating Mee Suah. She thought that he would be able to digest it as it is soft. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case.

My dad is feeling much better now. He is back to eating porridge & soup. 

My parents' neighbours came by and again they were sitting on the stairs. Haha. I think we didn't have to buy any sofa for the house. Just get some cushions for guests to sit on the stairs. :)

They were quite impressed with my dads' progress. They also mentioned that it's amazing that my dad can walk up & down the stairs so quickly.

My dad is getting used to having visitors. He is very much a private person but he understand that everyone is concern. 

There's something new that I need to get for the house & for my dad. A weighing scale! Perhaps this would help motivate him to gain weight. :)

I read this article in Times. (My colleague subscribe to Times) The article is titled "How Faith Can Heal". I'm still reading it. So far it's very interesting. Shall see if I can summarize the article and hope it will help everyone.

16th February 2009-Home Theatre System

It's a super warm day! Ok, I've downgraded the weather today. IT'S A SUPER DUPER HOT! arggghhh! :P

Since it's a working day, it's back to the norm. My mum sending me to the station. She will pick me up from the station in the evening. My mum told me about her bringing dad home (to their house) today. She was nagging my dad the whole way cause my dad dismantled his home theatre system (HTS) all by himself. Besides that, he got to play with the 3 furry creatures at home too. I'm sure they gave him joy. He once told me that he missed the 3 dogs. Well, they are just so adorable, I miss them too.

My mum kept telling me about my dad not listening to her and she had to keep nagging him to stop. When they brought the HTS back, my mum warned him not to touch it. My dad asked my mum to help him but she refused. So my dad said that his daughter (meaning me) will do it for him.

Uncle Kien Ping & Aunty Lilian came. So Uncle Kien Ping helped my dad out. Eventually, my dad had to touch the HTS too. haha. Itchy fingers?

In my opinion, my dad loves these stuff. He wants to do it, let him do it. As long as he is happy. He knows whether he is in pain or not. I'm sure after going through so much at the hospital, he would know when to stop and ask people to help him. 

Here is daddy & Uncle Kien Ping fixing the HTS. Initially it was just me & Uncle Kien Ping fixing it but half way through I had to attend to my phone. Then my dad took over and he stayed there until it's fixed. The smile on his face when he got it fixed was priceless! When Uncle Kien Ping mentioned the word "projector", my dads' eyes immediately widen and he asked "You have a projector at home?" with a big smile. My dad is a fan of Liverpool Football Club and at his home, he enjoys watching Liverpool matches using the projector. (Yes, his house has a projector & a projector screen.) His projector broke down a few months back. So when my uncle mentioned "projector", it got my dad excited. :)

My mum complaint that her shoulders are aching. Perhaps from the sleepless nights last week. My dad helping her reliever the ache while watching tv. I always feel that you can show TLC at any age & I find it very sweet when old folks show TLC towards their partners. My parents are perfect examples. They are both in their early 50s and they are still holding hands when they are out shopping/walking. I would always tell Han, "My parents look so cute holding hands." :)

I read this entry on my dad's blog (shared with his treasure hunting mates) & it touched me. 

Here is the longer version of the reading that was mentioned in the entry.

Do Not Worry

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life,

what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear.

Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?

Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns,

and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. 

Are you not of more value than they?

And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?

And why do you worry about clothing?

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow;

they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, 

even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.

But if God so clothes the grass of the field, 

which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven,

will he not much more clothe you - you of little faith?

Therefore do not worry, saying, "What will we eat?"

or "What will we drink?" or "What will we wear?"

For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things;

and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.

But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness,

and all these things will be given to you as well.

"So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own.

Today's trouble is enough for today."

Matthew 6:25-34

15th February 2009 - A day full of well wishers!

I started off my day very early. Went for breakfast with my hubby then we went for 8.30am mass at TTDI. I dropped Han off at Grand City, PJ to join his friends there. Well, he deserve some "Boys Time". 

Came home and just a while after, my dad welcomed his first group of guests for the day: the TREASURE HUNTERS! (a.k.a Pirates since they are always treasure hunting. :) )

I was very happy to see my dad laughing and talking to them. Although he had to speak softly. It was nice to have them over as it has liven up the house. Plus my dad needs to, as he puts it, borrow positive energy from them.

This moment reminded me of the movie "Sound of Music". My dad, Julie Andrews and the others are the kids surrounding her. Well, the only difference is my dad wasn't teaching them how to sing. :)

Thank you all for dropping by! :)

We had lunch after the treasure hunters left. My dad then took a short nap. The next group of visitors came: Daddys' colleagues.

The stairs seem to be my dads' favourite spot. His colleagues were shocked to see him sitting on the stairs but they joined him immediately. They sat there throughout the whole visit. :)

My in-laws came for the 2nd time this weekend. This round with my bro-in-law. It was nice to have them around too. It's always nice to have family coming around. Unfortunately, I couldn't catch any moment with my camera cause I was busy doing house work or just walking up & down settling stuff. haha. (I've done a lot today and I just kept doing & doing & doing. I think I better sit back & reflect what I've accomplished today.)

This photo was taken yesterday. My in-laws with Uncle Kien Ping's family.Han was showing them the Russian Doll that was given by Suresh. They were all fascinated by it. :)

When everybody left, I decided to do more house work. Washed our slippers & made orange juice. My dad then decided to take a walk outside. So I accompanied him. We walked about 15 minutes, just around the neighbourhood.

After dinner, daddy was talking to Han & I continued to do house work and then joined my mum at the living room watching tv. Uncle Kien Ping & family then came by as a daily routine. My dad would always advise my uncle not to come by but he would still come. Well, he is after all his only brother & sibling in Malaysia.

My cousin, Elijah playing a game of English Chess with Han. My dad made the wooden chess board himself. He made it many many years back. I think it's more than 20 years. I was chatting with my dad at the bar table this morning and he said that it's nice to play chess here. I told him I don't know how to play. Then he suggested to bring his chess set over. He only told me the basics & rules then my mum reminded him that he needs to rest. I have yet to play my first game of chess. :)

Brotherly talk. :)

14th February 2009- Discharged & Home Sweet Home

Well, not exactly home sweet home cause my dad moved to my house. :) But it's still good to be out of the hospital. :)

I'm happy to see my dad back to where he will be more comfortable. He went back to his normal self almost immediately. He sat on the living room sofa. In less than 30 minutes, asked for his laptop. haha. That's Vincent Woo. He was online while the tv is on. And no prize for guessing which channel he tuned in to also. (It's CNN!) He did take a walk around. Just to get some exercise.

Another good news is that my sister will be back for good! The Woo Family will be reunited next month! Double YAY!!

It's Valentine's Day. It's good that we are celebrating it together as a family. All at home even though we are all doing our own things. Han is working in the room, Daddy is busy downloading series for mummy, Mum nagging daddy to take a nap, Ee Wen talking to us via Skype & Me updating my blog and I am just glad to have everyone at home. :)

Daddy sorting out his letters. Spot the laptop?

Done with the laptop, now the PC. :) hahaha.. 

My mum gave up nagging my dad to take a nap. (A normal scene for me.)

Well, time for me to get some rest. Was cleaning up the house the whole day. From today onwards, I have to make sure my house is clean at all times. Well, I have to confess that I'm not as interested to do house work as my sister. But when I'm tasked to do it, I'll do my best. :)

13th February 2009- Day 9 at Room 6051

It's finally the weekend! :) I was looking forward to it so badly.

We get to go home at 4.45pm on Fridays. I got off work slightly after 5pm and arrived back at Subang nearly 6pm. My mum & I went for dinner and she "dragged" me to see my family Dr. The Dr said it's just some inflammation. Gave me medication to release all the gas trapped inside my body. :)

When we went to the hospital, Uncle Kien Ping & Aunty Lilian was there. They bought some organic food stuff for my dad. How thoughtful of them. :)

My dad told us, "I will be discharged tomorrow!" He will still need to continue eating food that are blended for a few days. The Dr needs to see him again on Friday to see his progress.

Praise the Lord for giving my dad so much strength to recover. :)

It is a beautiful day although it's Friday the thirteenth. I'm sure this news is the best Valentine's Day gift for my mummy. We just can't wait to have my dad home.

Well, tomorrow is not only Valentine's day. It's also a big day for the Woo Family! Better go rest and greet the new day with a BIG CHEERFUL SMILE!

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

May you be blessed with LOVE every second, JOY every minute, PEACE every hour & GOOD HEALTH all year long!

12th February 2009 - Day 8 at Room 6051

The day started very early for me. I took the 6.55am train to work cause I had to rush a couple of things.

I manage to get home by 7pm. My mum picked me up from Parade then we went for dinner before heading to the hospital.

My mum told me about my dads' day. He vomited, twice! After eating his lunch which contained rice, mushroom, flour stuff and vegetables. So the Dr put my father back to "Fluids Only". Well, we personally felt that my dad was asked to eat solid food too fast. We thought that he would be put on "Fluids Only" for a few days then only go for solid slowly. Perhaps the hospital dietitian is a little more ambitious.

My mum fell down at the hospital today. However, she didn't hurt herself. Probably will just get a bruise on her knee. The nurse measured her blood pressure and it's normal. Praise the Lord!

My dad looked more comfortable when I visit him today. All tubes were removed! Yayy!

However, I wasn't feeling very well. I'm not sure what it is, there's a big question mark to my body. My dad held my hand and started soothing me, made me want to cry. (Well, I am the emo kind) But I don't think it's stress cause I know I have faith in Him. Perhaps it's something that I don't consciously realize. Well, whatever it is, I just want to be sure and don't be careless. At the moment, it's 80% sure that it may be due to stress.

Uncle Kien Ping and Aunty Lilian came by. We said a prayer. After a while, my dad asked us to go home cause he was just too tired from the "drama" he had this afternoon.

When I said good night to my dad, gave him a kiss on his forehead. He held my hand tight, hugged me and told me "Don't be stressed up k? You must take care."

The gesture & words brought slight tears to my eyes. I have to learn how to not cry so easily. 

Daddy, I promise you I will do my best to manage everything. :)

 

11th February 2009- Day 7 at Room 6051

I manage to leave the office on time today. And catch the earliest train that I could and lucky for me, there wasn't any train delay. PHEW!

My mum picked me up from Subang Jaya station and we went for dinner before heading to the hospital. My mum told me about my dads' progress and she sounded happier herself. Firstly, she was happy that her 2nd sister came for a visit. Amongst her 8 siblings, she is closest to her 2nd sister. My aunt comforted her and gave her some emotional booster! :)

Secondly, my dad did an X-ray today and the results turned out GREAT! :) Mum kept teasing dad about being worried before the results came out but I think she has the same worry in her too. 

I'm happy to see her laugh & talk more openly today and also eating a full plate of rice! Kudos to mummy! :)

As much as she projects that she is strong, I know that deep inside her, she is hurting. She has been very strong for my dad and I love her for that. For showing me how a wife should be when your husband needs you to just be there to give him the morale support and to take care of him.

The Dr removed my dad's drips! YAY! That would mean, my dad can now eat anything & everything! (Well, not exactly everything & anything. He has to watch his diet.) However, there are some food that was given by the hospital that my dad don't eat naturally. He call them the "5 whites". 

1) Milk

2) White Sugar

3) Flour

I can't remember the other two whites, I think it's White Bread & White Rice. 

The reason why the above food is white is because it's bleached. Therefore, there isn't any natural nutrition in it. Apparently, if you pour white sugar on the floor, no ants would go near it because it's not "healthy". (You may try the theory.)

These were BIG NO-NOs for daddy!

And the healthier form of sugar, FRUITS! :)

Daddy has one more tube attached to him. The Dr said he will remove the last tube tomorrow! WOOHOOO! my daddy is clear off tubes tomorrow! 

Now he just needs to concentrate gaining weight & strength. The Dr will need to monitor his weight before he can be discharged. My dad is also advised to stay home for a period of time to regain the strength and immune system that he needs.

This is something that he needs to do to strengthen his lungs or "open up" his lungs. It's called "Balloon Blowing". He has to do it every hour for 5-6 times. It's not that easy when you have just undergone surgery as your lungs get tired easily.

My dad has also recovered from his surgical pain. Praise the Lord! It was a miracle as yesterday he still had difficulty shifting himself because of the pain. However, he still had to deal with his coughing today. He hasn't been sleeping well because he kept coughing.

So today, we tried something new.

VINCENT WOO, the Mount Everest climber!

He is determined to solve this coughing issue. My uncle suggested that he wears a jacket and cover his head. So he went home to get this jacket for my dad. I figured that my dad's neck might be cold, so I wrapped a towel around his neck. Hopefully he could catch some sleep tonight.

I was told to recite this Psalm when my dad was undergoing surgery last week. I find it soothing and it is "Thanksgiving for Deliverance from Many Troubles". Here is part of the reading.

Some were sick through their sinful ways,

and because of their iniquities endured affliction;

they loathed any kind of food, 

and they drew near to the gates of death.

Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,

and he saved them from their distress;

he sent out his word and healed them,

and delivered them from destruction.

Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love,

for his wonderful works to humankind.

And let them offer thanksgiving sacrifices,

and tell of his deeds with songs of joy.

~Psalms 107:17-22~

10th February 2009- Day 6 at Room 6051

It's my first day back at work after taking the whole of last week off. Started quite fast as I had to play catch up with work.

It became a habit for me to ask my dad how he is every morning. So I e-mailed him from work. 

He told me that the Dr has removed the Urine tube and one of the blood tube. WHAT A JOY! He now has 2 more tubes to remove! Then he'll be ready to come home. :) 

Great progress daddy! 

I bought a small bottle of Tropicana Apple Juice as a reward. However, we are still unsure whether he is allowed to drink it. Hopefully he will remember to ask the Dr tomorrow.

I miss tending to my dad. However, I know I must concentrate at work. I had to solve my "burping" problem before getting back to stressful stuff. So I went to my company's panel. The Dr prescribed me with liquid & pills to treat Gastric. :)

My daddy received SUNFLOWERS today! It was from my colleagues! :) 

Thank you all so much for this SUNNY surprise! :)

The basket was indeed heavy. It has 10 stalks of sunflowers & 10 fruits in it. :)

I was stuck at the train station after work for about 1.5 hours. I decided to take a train from the opposite direction, all the way to the last station. Take the same train back home. Luckily the last station is only 3 station away from Bank Negara Station.

I was frustrated cause I wanted to see my dad earlier. Wanted to spend more time with him but because of the delay, I only got to see him for about an hour.

When I went into the room, I saw him like this...

Vincent Woo the Musketeer!

He said that the cold air is blowing on his face, making him feel cold. So he decided to cover the lower half of his face. 

We spent the hour talking about corporate stuff & about him wanting to pass on his skills to me, my sister & my husband. (My dad can manage talking without stopping for about 3 minutes now. However, he still had to pause a while to control his cough & his voice is still a little husky.)

Thank you daddy for guiding & loving us. For pointing out our weaknesses, for helping us grow up to be a better person. We will show the same kind of love to our children. :)

I shall wrap up todays' post with a song. I love to watch the movie "Sister Act".  If you haven't watched it before, you should. I find it entertaining, meaningful & re-energizing when I listen to the choir sing. There are 3 songs that I like in this movie: "Hail Holy Queen", "My God" & "I Will Follow Him".

Here's part of the lyrics to the song "My God":

Nothing you could say that could tear me away from My God.

Nothing you could do cause I'm stuck like glue to My God.

I'm sticking to my God like a stamp to a letter,

Like birds of a feather we stick together

I'm telling you from the start, I can't be torn apart from my God.

9th February 2009-Day 5 at Room 6051

My dad made more progress! :) Wonderful news!

When the Dr came in this morning , he said to me with a smile "Hey, you are always here in the morning?!"

Well, I wanted to say "He is my daddy!" haha.. but I just smiled and said "Yup!"

However, tomorrow onwards, I will only be around in the evening after work except for weekends. 

The Dr would always greet my dad with a smile. He checked my dads' stomach today and told me just when he stepped out of the room "OK. He looks good. I'm going to remove the nose tube and he is allowed to drink clear fluids."

I responded, "Very good news! Thank you Dr."

I went into my dad's room and shouted (not very loudly).. "YAYyyy!"

My dad responded with a smile. Seeing him smile means a lot to me. 

Here are photos to show my dad's progress for the day!

 

My dad with one of his favourite toy: his handphone! He couldn't play with his hp for long after the surgery. His eyes will want to shut when he looks down. Today, he made a progress, he played with his hp until he has nothing else to do with the phone! :)

Just before the nurse remove his nose tube. The nurse changed the tag behind from "Sips of H2O" to "Fluids Only". My dad then told me "Do you know what I feel like drinking now?" I said "What is it?" He said "Tropicana Apple Juice!" with a BIG SMILE! :) 

NO MORE NOSE TUBE! Yayy! Spot the "Fluids Only" sign?

Today he also asked whether we brought his laptop. :) My daddy is back to his old ways. Praise the Lord. :) We brought his laptop to the hospital in the evening and he used up the battery. The hospital does not allow us to charge the laptop in the room. We can only use handphone battery chargers. Daddy will have to wait til tomorrow morning to continue surfing the net.

My dad tend to cough more at night and it makes him very uncomfortable because of the surgical pain. We were searching for ways to keep him warm. Turned up the air conditioner temperature. Covered his chest & back with towels and blankets. Rubbed ointment on his back. He used pillows to block wind from flowing to his back. 

After a while, he suggested: "Cover my head!"

VINCENT WOO, The Treasure Hunter! (ARrrrr!)

My daddy, auditioning for a place in Pirates of the Caribbean 4. :P

I was reading the Bible this morning. One of the readings for today touched me.

"When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gen-nes'a-ret and moored the boat. 

When they got out of the boat, people at once recognized him, and rushed about that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 

And wherever he went, into villages or cities or farms, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; 

and all who touched it were healed."

~Mark 6:53-56~

The title of this reading is "Healing the Sick in Gennesaret". :)

8th February 2009-Day 4 at Room 6051

My dad is still struggling with his surgical pain. It's even tougher now because he seem to be coughing often. Every time he coughs, he will have to hang on to the sides of the bed or hold on to his abdomen because it's just too painful.

He begin to look very tired because he can't sleep with the need to cough almost all the time.

PROGRESS! The Dr said that he will remove the tube at his nose tomorrow. HOORAY! One more tube down. 4 more to go!

Dr encouraged my dad to not give up. He said it's normal to feel chesty and to be coughing after surgery. Asked my dad not to hold it back. Just cough it all out. He gave my dad the thumbs up for progressing so well. He said "Just a few more days and I'll send you home. Don't give up!"

My dad responded with his thumbs up! :) The nurse then said "JIA YOU JIA YOU!" (direct translation, "add oil add oil!".  It's a kind of cheer/motivation for people to work harder and not give up!)

We then helped my dad to find the most comfortable position.

We went back to the hospital in the evening. We found my dad sitting on the chair! More PROGRESS! My dad earned 3 bonus points today. 

Bonus Point No. 1) Dr said he will remove the nose tube tomorrow.

Bonus Point No. 2) He could sit on the chair for 3 hours.

Bonus Point No. 3) He passed motion for the first time since surgery.

PRAISE THE LORD! :)

We moved him back to the bed because he was too tired of sitting down. He then fell into cold fever. The nurse said he is not allowed to take any form of medication. So all we could do is use a ice pack to warm him down.

My dad felt very cold. He asked us to rub his hands & feet. After some "magic" touches, he felt warm again. His temperature was back to normal.

Uncle Kien Ping & family then came to visit him. We could see that he is very happy to see them and indeed very happy to have the lil ones holding his hand in prayer.

He then felt feverish again. This time his body was very warm. We informed the nurse to give him a new ice pack. My mum & I couldn't tend to my dad further as the guard has "shoo-ed" us away. (It was pass the visiting hours.)

I pray that my dad will recover from his fever. And that he will get some rest from the tiring day. Heavenly Father, hold my dads' hand and tell him that he will be ok. Have him getting enough sleep to build up his strength.

I came back and found messages on FB & my blog. Thank you all so much for your messages & words of encouragement. :)

One message from a FB friend touched me as I have not known him very well. He is a treasure hunter like my dad. The title of his message "Wishing Vincent Woo a speedy recovery". The title itself means a lot to me. I'm glad that my dad is famous in the treasure hunting world that he has even more friends (known/unknown to him) praying for him.

This part of the message touched me further:

"I felt compelled to write to you because I related very much to your story when I read it. My mum went through the same passage as well after being diagnosed with breast cancer 2 years ago. She too had a successful surgery and is now on medication for another 5 years as part of the treatment.

Your friend's brother in law is right. Take treatment as a friend and continue with daily life is the way to go. And with the support that he seems to be getting from his family and friends, I'm sure it'll be no time before I see him treasure hunting again!"

Dear friend (you know who you are. don't dare to mention your name in case you don't want to be mentioned), Thank you so much once again for these words of encouragement. :)

I shall wrap up todays' post with one of my favourite Psalm:

You who live in the shelter of the Most High,

who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,

will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress;

my God, in whom I trust."

For he will deliver you from the 

snare of the fowler

and from the deadly pestilence;

he will cover you with his pinions,

and under his wing you will find refuge;

his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.

You will not fear the terror of the night,

or the arrow that flies by day,

or the pestilence that stalks in darkness,

or the destruction that wastes at noonday.

A thousand my fall at your side,

ten thousand at your right hand,

but it will not come near you.

You will only look with your eyes

and see the punishment of the wicked.

Because you have made the LORD your refuge,

the Most High your dwelling place,

no evil shall befall you,

no scourge come near your tent.

For he will command his angels concerning you

to guard you in all your ways.

On their hands they will bear you up,

so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.

You will tread on the lion and the adder,

the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot.

Those who love me, I will deliver;

I will protect those who know my name.

When they call to me, I will answer them;

I will be with them in trouble,

I will rescue them and honour them.

With long life I will satisfy them, 

and show them my salvation.

~Psalm 91:1-16~

For those who believe, when you are in doubt, recite this Psalm. This is God's assurance of His protection.

2nd February- The day that has changed my life

My dad has been diagnosed with Stomach Cancer on 2nd February 2009. The news came as a shock to us.

Dr. Robert P. Jalleh, my dad's saviour, advised him to do an operation to remove his stomach & spleen. My dad then called my mum to inform her and they both made a quick & wise decision to follow the Dr's advice.

My dad, being his practical self, then called our insurance agent to come over to discuss about insurance and his last will. 

My dad was then admitted into the hospital on that very evening. The surgery was scheduled to be on the next day.

My first thoughts when I heard the news, "Oh Lord, please help us."

Han came back that night from PD and I thank him for doing so. He is a very loving husband who understands my need.  I took the rest of the week off and Han was on emergency leave for a day.

We slept in fear that night. Praying for the best. 

3rd February- The Surgery Day & Day 1 at HDU

At 1pm, my dad was wheeled into the operation theatre. Tears fell from his eyes and so did mine. There were plenty of mixed feelings. We put our trust in God but at the same time we were fearful.

I texted my friends, in-laws and family to pray at 2pm. That's when my dad's surgery started. I believe in the power of prayer.

7pm- Our prayers were answered! My mum received a call from the hospital and was told that my dad came out of the OT safely. :)

The surgery was successful! The Dr removed my dad's stomach & spleen & as many cancer cells as he can. However, there were some left that he could not remove. He told us not to worry as my dad will undergo treatment once he has regained his strength. The Dr told us not to think about Chemo just yet. We should just focus on helping my dad regain his strength.

My dad was admitted into the Highly Dependancy Unit (HDU). He was conscious when we met him. Making jokes, talking. After a while, he was tired. So we left him so that he can catch some sleep.

My feelings: My dad is a HERO! :) He made it through with God beside him and all the Saints protecting my dad from any harm. After the surgery, we know, God is here with us to go through these tough days and my dad will fight this battle with God's guidance and with God & our love and care. :)

4th February 2009 - Day 2 at HDU

We were only allowed to visit my dad at 11am-1pm & 5-8pm. My dad had some post operation pain on his left shoulder. Told the Dr. and he explained why there is such a pain. The Dr gave 2 reasons:

1) During the operation, my dad's hands were lifted up high so that the Dr could see everything clearly. His hands were in that position throughout the operation which lasted 5-6hours. Therefore, the pain.

2) The Dr removed the spleen as well. The spleen is located below the left side diaphragm. During surgery, there may be blood clod at the diaphragm and the nerve is connected to his left side collar bone. 

The Dr recommended pain killers. My dad was a little reluctant to take it initially but the Dr told him not to reject the idea immediately. He then gave in. The drug made him drowsy and he couldn't feel his limbs. He don't like that feeling. He then told the nurse not to give him anymore. He will just bare with the pain.

My feelings: It was heart breaking to see my dad in pain and helpless lying down. I know he will fight through this. I pray every day that he will be stronger and that he will progress.

5th February 2009- Day 3 at HDU & Day 1 at Room 6051

By this time, my dad was B.O.R.E.D! it' understandable. For a person who is always active, suddenly stuck on the bed 24 hours with nothing to watch, nothing to do. He eventually fell into depression. He told us he felt like vomiting cause he is so freaking bored. 

We of course, told him to hang on in there. When the Dr came to check on him and said that he'll be moved to the normal ward, the news immediately brighten up my dad's day.

However, the hospital took nearly 8 hours to locate a vacant ward for him. His spirits went down again.

When we visit him in the evening, he was still in HDU. We went there to cheer him up. He said he can't take it. He felt like vomiting. Then the nurse came with good news : "The room is ready. We are going to push you up to Level 6 soon."

We had to wait for about 30mins before the porter came. Then my dad told us to go up first and ask us to switch on the tv. He wants the tv to be switched on before he's there. haha. Yup, that's how depressed he was.

The TV saved my daddy! Immediately, he tuned in to CNN and Barack Obama was on. He didn't even answer us when we spoke to him. His eyes & ears were glued to the tv. 

My feelings: I'm happy to see my dad to go back to being himself the moment he was moved to the normal ward. 

6th February 2009: Day 2 at Room 6051

My dad had some discomfort because he has been lying down too long. His left shoulder is still giving him pain and also the left diaphragm. It is also the day that they removed the epidural. My dad can now feel the surgical pain.

Progress! My dad was asked to drink more water. From 10ml to 30ml.

When my mum & I visited him, he was still glued to the TV.  My dad received a lot of messages from his friends, sending their regards & wishes. 

He also received a basket of flowers & fruits from his company. :) His company HR is very nice. They wanted to visit him but my dad is not comfortable to receive guests at the moment.

We have a visitor! My mum was just walking around outside the room and she bumped into my dad's treasure hunt friend, Carol! She came by to say "Hi!". However, my dad was struggling to talk because of his surgical pain. 

He was also struggling to find the best position to lie down as he is afraid of getting any bed sore.

At night, my parents' neighbours came by to say HI!. They brought along a basket of fruits.

My feelings: I'm glad that my dad is progressing well day by day. Praise the Lord for healing my dad. I was in pain when I saw my dad struggling to control his surgical pain. Immediately, I prayed to the Lord to give him strength.

7th February 2009: Day 3 at Room 6051

We did our routine, going to the hospital in the morning after breakfast.

My dad received his 2nd bouquet of flowers from his Treasure Hunt mates. :) It was very nice and the nurse told my dad: "Uncle, your flowers are all shining so bright. You must be strong & cheerful like the flowers."

Suddenly, a guy walked in. He introduced himself: "Hi, I'm Carol's brother-in-law." Carol told him about my dad and he decided to walk in to motivate my dad. He is a cancer survivor for 10 years. He reassured my dad that medicine is so advanced these days that we don't have to worry. At whichever stage my dad is, it doesn't matter. The most important is for my dad to keep praying and receive the treatment like his friend. Don't allow other people to bully him. He then told us that he wrote a book on his journey and has a website that we could view : www.geocities.com/ejsoo

We then found out that he is a journalist for the Star and his name is Soo Ewe Jin. (His name sounds familiar, perhaps from the articles that he wrote for the Star.)

My dad was very happy to have him. He was very thankful to have such a person just dropping by to give him one push of motivation!

In the evening, our insurance agent (one of my dad's close friend), came with her family. My dad knows her husband too. Her husband came and it put a big smile on my dad's face. He cheered my dad up and I was so happy to see my father, talking (i mean whispering) and laughing (though he had to control himself).

My feelings: Very thankful to have the two surprise visits. Thank you so much for cheering up my dad. :)

Photos:

My dad watching TV. He has now switched to watching more channels rather than just CNN, ESPN & Discovery Channel. :)

The messages & best wishes from his Treasure Hunt mates & his company, AIG.

The flower bouquet from his Treasure Hunt mates.

The flower & fruits basket (the fruits were removed when this picture was taken) from his company, AIG.

Special Thanks & Appreciation:

To Uncle Kien Ping & Aunty Lilian: Thank you for coming by every day just to say a prayer for my dad. Thank you for touching my dads' heart and for guiding him through his journey in Christian faith.

To Susan (our insurance agent): Thank you for handling the financial matters for us and for being there immediately when my dad called you. You have been of great help & we are glad that we don't have to worry about financial matters. Thank you for bringing Uncle Simon & your children over. It was indeed a cheerful day for my daddy.

To those who have prayed for my dad: I thank you for your prayers and for keeping him in your daily prayers. May you continue to pray for him.

To my relatives & in-laws: Thank you for being such a supportive family. The sms-es and calls touched my heart and I am truly blessed with such a wonderful family. Thank you for your encouragement and for praying for my dad every day. 

To my mum-in-law and dad-in-law: Thank you mummy & papa for taking care of Han when I had no time to. And I thank you for praying for my dad every day. I thank you for asking me every day how my dad is doing and also your care & concern.

To Syaza, Sulo & Tuty: Thank you for coming over on Friday. It was indeed a good "break" for me. I'm sorry to have canceled our plans on Monday. I hope that Friday made it up. Will see you girls soon for a drink/catching up!

To my husband: Thank you for being so supportive throughout these tough times. I'm truly blessed. No words can describe how much you mean to me and I thank God every day that I have you in my life.

To my mum: Although she won't read this, but I would like to thank her for being such a strong woman. She was there to tell me to hold my tears. She was there to tell me to be strong for daddy. 

To my friends, my mums' friends & my dads' friends: Thank you for motivating us to be strong and for praying for my dad. There is no chance for us to be weak with such strong support from all of you.

To my Saviour, Heavenly Father: I thank you for blessing me with so much love and care. I pray that you will bless these beautiful people with love, joy & peace and all that they have been praying for.

Note: This post is written for my dad and my sister in Japan. (I will continue to publish post on my dad's daily progress.)

My dad, so that he would read it when he is well enough to go online. May he be reminded of the support that he has when he is fighting this big battle against cancer. 

My sister, it's tougher for you since you are far away. May the posts on daddy's progress keep you updated and assure you that daddy is in good hands. Your prayers are the strongest support that daddy can have. Just be strong for him and keep yourself healthy. When you are home, you will be able to contribute more. :)

As Liverpool Supporters would shout & sing: 

"YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE!"