Paul Daniel Hougen

Over the past few days - actually, over the last few weeks - we've had many good visits together, and right along with all the tears, we've been sharing many stories of Paul. While making arrangements for Paul's funeral, John asked Stephanie if he could write Paul's obituary. John carefully crafted this and we think he captured Paul quite well.

Paul Daniel Hougen

With his eyes wide open, Paul Hougen confidently stepped from this life to the next on December 24, 2010. His final gift to his family was the peace and dignity with which he accepted his death.
It was with great sorrow that Paul left Stephanie, his true love. She gifted him with the love and family that was the core of his life. With equal sorrow, he left his girls, Emma and Sarah. They put the never-ending twinkle in his eyes.

The boy who never left for school without a kiss for his mom seamlessly became the father who got daily hugs and kisses from his girls. Paul’s parents, brothers and sisters will never forget the excited call he made announcing Emma’s birth and later Sarah’s; he was so proud to be a Dad.

Paul’s loves are too numerous to mention, but included the Louisville Cardinals, the Vikings, the Minnesota Twins, Ford Mustangs, his motorcycles, and all sports involving balls. His skills at baseball and golf were the envy of many. Never the gourmet, he loved all things Spam. His last full meal was linguini with Spam sauce, made especially for him by his family.

Paul was loved by all his nieces and nephews because in him they found a kindred spirit. The kid in him was never far from the surface. While all the uncles and aunts showed interest in the nieces’ and nephews’ video game, Paul was the only one who would go out and buy one for himself.

Paul had a wickedly quick wit and a gift for spotting life’s absurdities. He had no fear as a friend. He was with his friends when they were hurting with the same ease he was with them when they were celebrating.

Paul Daniel Hougen was born to Jim and Vella Hougen on July 23, 1963. He is survived by his wife Stephanie and their daughters Emma and Sarah, his parents Jim and Vella, and Stephanie’s parents David and Gillian Ley. He is also survived by brothers John (Michelle) Hougen and David Hougen, sisters Jane Hougen, Ardis (Craig) Kraft, and Susan (Marty) Lieberg, nephews Erik Hougen, Luke Kraft, and Ben Lieberg, nieces Meghan (Brandon) Fortman, Rachel (Ryan) Galemore, Krysta Hougen, Carlie Hougen, and Kjerstie Lieberg, and great-nephews Elijah and Caden Galemore, and William Fortman. Paul’s brother Charlie preceded him in death, and seeing Charlie again gave Paul great comfort.

Paul’s service will be held at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Larimore at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 29. Visitation at the church one hour before the service. Interment will be at Bellevue Cemetery at a later date. This is a celebration of Paul’s life. Please feel free to dress casually and colorfully.

Funeral arrangements by Bakke Funeral Homes of Larimore, North Dakota.

God bless you so that you may be a blessing to others.

Paul passed away peacefully this afternoon at home with Steph right by his side.

After Paul and Stephanie made the decision to quit treatment and medication, our family all came to accept that this was the best thing for Paul. He was at peace with this decision, and so were we. We were all able to say goodbye to our Paul. He was lucid and aware of our presence, and we all felt blessed to be with him at this time. We made the difficult decision to bring Dad home from the nursing home to say goodbye to Paul. This is difficult because our Dad is not himself, and we knew this would be stressful. However, soon after Dad left Paul this afternoon, Paul called for Steph to come into his room, and he peacefully and quietly passed away. Even at the end, Paul was thinking of his family.

We are still taking all of this in, but we are all blessed by Paul and so lucky to have him in our lives. Decisions will be made in the next couple days about arrangements, but in the meantime please know that your thoughts, prayers, visits, and kindness has buoyed our spirits. Paul knew he was loved, and this helped him go home to Heaven with dignity, peace, and grace. We know that he is with Charlie, his big brother, and that gives us all such comfort to know that they are together. Who knew that Charlie would be helping us through this difficult time?

God bless Paul. God bless Stephanie, Emma, and Sarah. God bless you that you may be a blessing to others.



Merry Christmas, all.

Tough Decesions

Paul and Stephanie made some tough decicions while he was in the hospital earlier this week. They decided to end the chemo treatments. They shared the decision with the family yesterday, and it has been a tough time.

The cancer and chemo have taken a huge toll on Paul. His body is weak and tired, and this suffering is no what we want for Paul. He has quit taking all of his other medications except the morphine, which still - thankfully - is giving him pain relief.

We are making the most of our time together. Paul is very weak, but tolerates our company for brief spurts. Yesterday we were able to do some storytelling, read some Bible verses (at Paul's request), laugh a little, and cry quite a bit.

Mom's prayer, "God bless you so that you may be a blessing to others" is not a static prayer. We have been on the receiving end of so much kindness over the past few weeks... God has surely blessed us with everyone's support, visits, kind words, and thoughts.

We love Paul Daniel, and know that so many do. He has been a blessing to us, and this is what makes it so hard. He shared with Stephanie as they made this decision, "I'm ready to see Charlie." Since the decision has been made, Steph says he is so much more calm. He is at peace, and we are trying to be at peace, as we know he will be taken care of so well.

Breathing Treatments and Heparin Shots

Paul Daniel is still serving time in the hospital. He is getting breathing treatments and Stephanie is now getting trained on how to give Paul heparin shots. Evidently Paul does have several blood clots - they don't know if they have moved up, but said the treatment would be the same regardless.

We are thankful for many things - Steph has been amazing, and she continues to learn new things. We are thankful Steph's parents can be here now as well. Dave and Gillian are two wonderful people -Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah are happy they are here!

Steph hopes that Paul is headed home tomorrow - as we all do. Hopefully he is good and rested up for Christmas. We'll get this hospitalization business behind us and dive right in to a special Christmas together. Uncle David has been baking up a storm. I'm hoping Steph can make those wonderful caramel-shortbread sinful delights. Marty made venison sausage to add to John's gumbo, and he's starting jerky fixings tonight per Krysta's standing order for Christmas venison jerky. Oh, yes, - and lefse. There's a saying that it's not what's on the table but who's around it - but we are kind of interested in both...

Merry Christmas, everyone.

Vikings and Hospitals

Maybe Paul knew what he was doing. Last night he was having difficulties breathing, so he was ambulanced to Grand Forks. They have things under control now, but it may have been fortuitous that Paul was in a comfy hospital bed while the Vikings are trying to slug it out with the Chicago Bears in the freezing drizzle. The Vikes claimed the first touchdown, but after that... well, it wasn't a total blowout, but it would have been nice to end the season with a victory!

Anyway, Paul is in good care, and if weren't for the weather around Grand Forks, he may have come home today. Doctors felt it best to keep him just in case. We feel good that Steph has her parents in Larimore now - the more the merrier, and how good it is to have that extra support when determining what to do. There are many decisions to be made!

Hopefully, that's the only episode this week, and we have healthy appetites and hearty visits at Christmas!

Chemo Tired

It's been nearly a week since Paul's second chemo treatment, and he is getting reacquainted withe the classic chemo side-effects. His number one side-effect is his tiredness. The chemo has a way of sucking out all of his energy. He's had some queasy spells as well, and his appetite just isn't there. In addition to her nursing duties, Steph is also taking on the dietitian role. Her patient can be a bit unruly and stubborn at times, but she continues to push the food - even if it's a tiny bit at a time.

Being able to drain his abdomen at home through the port they installed during his hospital stay has been good. Steph has become quite adept at it, and it gives Paul more "room" to eat.

Steph's parents arrived safely from England. They are reacquainting themselves with Larimore and are adjusting to the brisk North Dakota winter! We are all excited to have them here!

Emma and Sarah have been looked after well by the school and community. This weekend they were part of the "Socks for Kids" program, a local Christmas charity. While they are a little overwhelmed at times, they certainly appreciate all the kindness as well.

The "usual suspects" will converge on Larimore for Christmas. We are all looking forward to being together, especially with Steph's parents able to celebrate with us. For those who don't know, Paul is the second youngest of the seven Hougen kids. John and his wife Michelle - who live in Bismarck -will be in town, along with their kids Erik who is living in New York City, Krysta who is living in Washington, D.C., and Carlie who is going to school in Chicago. Jane lives in Bismarck and will be home as well. David lives in Larimore. Susie (me) and husband Marty and Ben and Kjerstie live in Greenbush and will be in Larimore as well. We always have a great time together - Emma, Sarah, Ben, and Kjerstie especially like it when the "big cousins" come home!

We will have the Christmas Steph has decreed: "A fun-filled, family-filled Christmas!"

Spam Linguine and Chemo

So, brother John decided to mark Paul's second chemo with a new culinary treat (?): Spam linguine. Those who know Paul know of his love of this canned delight. According to John, it was a tasty meal and even Steph conceded to the allure of Spam in fine food.

Yesterday was Paul's second chemo treatment. Emma and Sarah played hooky from school and went to the cancer treatment center at Altru with Uncle John to see how everyone was treating their Dad. They saw the room Paul receives the chemo in, met the nurses, and were even able to be there when the doctor came in to check on Paul. In between visits with their Dad, Uncle John took them out to see Grandpa in the nursing home and a good meal at the Blue Moose.

Steph, Paul, and the girls are all looking forward to tomorrow: the British are Coming! Steph's parents will fly in tomorrow night. We are all excited to see them!

Thanks for your continued support and prayers. Mom's prayer continues to be the best: God bless you so that you may be a blessing to others...

Round Two

After a week-long hospital stay, we are happy to report that Paul has regained some strength, has boosted his appetite, has found a pain-killer that works more efficiently, and has unearthed his sense of humor again. Although he wasn't able to go to the Benefit Friday night, he is well aware and very humbled by everyone's support.

Tomorrow is round two of chemotherapy. This is the dose that was delayed due to his hospital stay. So, we are well aware that the chemo might knock him down again; we are still thankful for the benefits of the hospital stay and perhaps more aware and ready to act when the chemo side-effects emerge. Steph has been a trooper, an extraordinary student of cancer and chemo, and continues to be an employee, a wife, and a mother. She has trumped any multi-tasking feats previously held!

Brother John is coming up from Bismarck tonight to spend time with the family, and he will go with Paul in for chemo Tuesday. Steph has been working with the support staff at Altru and thought it may be good for the girls to see where their Dad is getting treatments. So that is the plan for Tuesday.

Again, continued thanks for your support.

P.S. The new look of the blog is because nephew Ben thought the other one didn't really "look" like Uncle Paul. Hence the BMW motorcycle - one of Paul's favorite toys.

Many Thanks...

Thank you. We want to say so much more, but we don't know how.

We just returned from Paul's benefit at Good Friend's. We were overwhelmed with all the support from friends and family. It was heartwarming to visit with everyone. Every time we turned around, there was a new group of people coming in with good wishes for Paul, Steph, and the whole family.

Many helped out, but we need to extend special thanks to Terry Trosen and his whole family for organizing and serving the supper. Special thanks to Karen and Ryan Knutson for setting up and organizing the silent auction and making things look so nice. Thanks to all who donated items for the silent auction as well. Thank you for coming out on a busy Friday night during the holiday season to support Paul and his family.

Despite these tough times, we are overwhelmed with all the good deeds and kind acts people have done since we found out about Paul's diagnosis. Our hearts are full.

Paul was not able to attend the event - best to keep him as isolated as possible from all the winter cold and flu bugs. However, Paul is well aware of all the support.

Many, many, thanks.

Home on Thursday!

Paul is scheduled to go home on Thursday!

The week-long hospital stay turns out to be "just what the doctor ordered." Paul got a chance to rest up.

His abdomen pain was addressed and he received pain management that was effective. Morphine works best for him and he will be going home with a form of morphine as well.

The hospital bed relieved his aching back and bedsores. The doctor wrote a scrip for a hospital bed at home too, and they are working out a delivery date for his new bed.

His fluid build-up was drained, and they have now installed another port so he can have his abdomen fluid drained at home. Steph is learning the skill of "tapping" - she's thinking pretty maple trees in Vermont. Hopefully this will not only help his discomfort but also increase his appetite.

He received much needed hydration.

He's eating good protein and lots of it.

Home health is also being pursued, which would be good for Paul and will relieve Steph's mind as well to know someone is "checking" up on him.

As Steph has reported, Paul's acerbic wit, sarcasm, and dry humor have all returned in proper, full force. So, Paul is back.

As Steph also reported, he's been getting a dose of laugher as the best medicine as well. Anyone have any dirty jokes? I'm sure Paul (and his twisted friends and siblings) would appreciate anything tacky and tasteless.

The hospital stay relieved both Paul and Steph's mind - it's good t know he was in good hands, and it also allowed Steph to get some proper sleep. Now that his pain issue has been addressed and he's built up some strength, she'll hopefully be able to keep resting.

The benefit is Friday night. All of us appreciate this. Thank you so much for all the support and help. Never underestimate the power of a good deed or a kind word.

Resting...

We were happy to find out the CAT scan did not reveal any need for surgery. That was the concern Friday and Saturday, as a possible explanation for the pain was the tumor in Paul's abdomen was obstructing his bowel.

Why he's experiencing the pain isn't fully explained, but it is a relief he does not need surgery and while in the hospital, he's been hooked up to morphine which is taking care of the pain without any side effects. He's also on a very comfortable air bed which he appreciates!

They also gave him a shot of heparin, as his right ankle is swollen and a blood clot is a potential cause of that.

Paul has received more attention than he may want at the hospital, however - he is more comfortable than he has been in a few days, and Steph and all can rest a little easier knowing he's being monitored (every hour all night long!)

Steph camped out at the hospital Friday night, but she did go to Larimore Saturday night for a good rest. We are thankful that the hospital is not far away!

Paul will have another x-ray today of his chest area to check out an air pocket outside his lung. They speculated that when his right lung was drained air somehow got in before the drainage site closed.

His second round of chemo was to begin Monday, but it has been delayed one week in order to take care of the pain issue.

Thank you for your continued support. There have been many Christmas elves busily helping out Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah - working on the back room, moving out the snow from the driveway, meals, cards, phone calls, and texts. Mom appreciates the cards and visits as well - she will always be happy to brew a pot of coffee and David has been keeping her supplied with cookies and brownies to share! Many, many thanks.

Hospital Run

Steph was concerned about Paul's increasing pain and cramping this afternoon, so she brought him into Altru. They admitted him and are running a cat scan this evening to see if they can determine the cause of this new pain.

They did give him morphine to help quell the pain. As Dad has a history of not mixing well with morphine, they are keeping a close eye on Paul.

We hope to know more soon. Although a hospital run is not ideal, both Paul and Steph feel reassured that they are under the close care of doctors and his pain can be managed more directly.

Hooray! The British are coming!

A bright spot in the week is news that Stephanie's parents will be flying into the States on December 16. Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah are so very excited to have them here, and especially excited to have them here for Christmas. The rest of us are excited too. Steph's parents are wonderful people, and we are so happy for Steph.

Paul had a couple days this week with an increased appetite, but we are wondering if he picked up a flu bug, as yesterday his stomach was cramping and his appetite vanished. We were hoping he could pack in as many calories as possible this week in preparation for his second chemo treatment on Monday.

Next week is Paul's benefit at Good Friend's in Larimore. We continue to be grateful for all the support!

Chemo, Tapped, Benefit

Chemo is not fun. Two weeks in have left Paul very tired and with little appetite. The last few days have seen a couple days where he has a little bit more of an appetite, but at a time when Paul needs food and fuel, he had no desire to eat. This is the third week after chemo, so we are hoping for an upswing in energy and appetite.

Brother John took Paul in for a check-up on Friday. Blood work from that day indicated that there will be no change in his chemo - he will stay the course set out for him earlier.

One thing that may help his energy and appetite is getting "tapped." Today he will get his abdomen fluid drained again.

Thanksgiving was low-key, but most of the family was together in Larimore. Plenty of eating and plenty of decorating for Christmas. We are anticipating a full house at Christmas. The "usual supsects" will be there - John and his family, Jane, David, Paul and Family, Susie and family - and hopefully even Ardis and family will be here. We are also hoping Stephanie's parents from England will be here as well. This gives us something to look forward to!

Check out information about the benefit planned for Paul on December 10 on the sidebar of this blog! THANK YOU!

Don't Miss the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Paul is feeling marginally better and had an appetite this morning for split pea soup. Hmm... the new breakfast of champions? Whatever the case may be, it was good to hear he had a craving for some food.

Steph has been busy researching all things cancer and chemo related. She has been able to do her work from home as well, which has been a blessing. She does need to go into the office for some things, but has been able to be flexible with that. Her colleagues have been great. All of Paul's siblings appreciate her wonderful care for our brother and her attentiveness to our Mom as well - her plate is full, but she continues to find room for more.

Emma and Sarah have been busy with school and friends. Both have a solid network of frienship and support.

Paul's colleagues and supervisors have been great as well. And now his old "Booth Avenue" buddy Ryan has been working away in the back addition to get it ready. The Hougens have been surrounded by some pretty spectacular friends and family. Thank you, thank you.

Now - if you happen to be a parade watcher, you are in for a treat this Thanksgiving. We are proud to announce our nephew Erik will be parading down the streets of New York City carrying the string on one of the floats: Kaikai and Kiki. We weren't sure who these characters were either - kind of some odd looking creatures from Japan. Either way, you can bet we will all be watching the parade around 9:57 Central Standard Time to see if we can catch a glimpse of Erik and the balloons.

Happy Thanksgiving, all. In the midst of these tough times, we are keenly aware of all our blessings. Our mom's prayer is still the best: God bless you that you may be a blessing to others.

Week One

Today marks one week after chemo began. Recovery from chemo has been rough but not unexpected for Paul.

On Friday, Paul went back to Altru and had a port "installed." The day wore him out, but it will be a good thing to have that port for future treatments, blood work, etc.

He is dealing with the side-effects of a myriad of things - the chemo itself, the medications, the procedures, the pain killers, etc. Peace and quiet is what he appreciates on most days - and a warm bath!

Yesterday he seemed to feel a bit better, just in time for the Vikings game... that's another story.

It's amazing the close-knit community of families who have dealt with cancer. Paul and Steph have received so many tips and words of encouragement, many of which have been put to use already.

We are hoping the negative side-effects of the chemo diminish this week and that the relief of his symptoms begins.

We continue to be grateful for your support and encouragement!

Chemo, cont.

Paul had a six-hour chemo drip yesterday in Grand Forks. Steph reports that the room and amenities were all very nice. They try to make it as comfortable as possible for patients and family. Paul has "shy" veins, however. He was very patient as they tried five times to get the right one, and plans are set for Paul to get a port this Friday. His nurse is a cancer survivor herself, and she told them that a port is the only way to go. That will make things so much easier for everyone!

He went to bed feeling fine last night, and Steph said he actually slept quite well.

Today, Chemo Day + One, was not a good day. Paul has been knocked out a bit by the chemotherapy. I guess we'd like to think that means the chemo is doing it's job; it's some potent, powerful stuff.

Again, our Mom's prayer works the best: "God bless Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah that they may continue to be blessings to others."

Thank you all for being blessings to our family...

Chemo 101

Paul will begin chemo on Monday. His chemo treatment will be six hours at the Altru hospital. He will then have three weeks off before his next treatment. Doctors will determine the treatment and timeline of future sessions based on how Paul responds to the first treatment.

They hope the chemo treatments have some quick effects on the fluid build up in his abdomen and in his right lung. They also hope the chemo relieves the pain in his back. Radiation is recommended for the cancer in his lower back, but if they started radiation it would delay the chemo.

The last two days Paul has felt stronger. He had his abdomen and lung drained Monday, but he felt a little nauseous afterwards. Now he's feeling better and has made a trip to Grand Forks - not to see a doctor! He made supper last night as well - a little more "normal." Today he and Steph made a run to Grand Forks to shop for a comfy chair for his chemo recuperation time.

Paul is preparing for the treatments, and friends have helped him in the preparation too with nice notes and good visits. He's received some tips about chemo as well. Our cousin gave him a Chemo 101 update - she even named names as to who it the best nurse for finding the vein!

Again, thanks from all of Paul's family. We are overwhelmed with this turn of events and are left numb at times, but our hearts are full. We are surrounded by some very caring family and friends.

Our Mom prayed with us last night, "God bless Paul that he may continue to be a blessing to others." That is our daily prayer, and know that your kind attention is a blessing to us. So, "May God bless you that you may continue to be a blessing to others."

Tapped...

Paul was "tapped" this morning. His abdomen was drained, and for the first time, his right lung was drained. He may be a bit sore, but the hope is that he has more energy and more appetite! Steph is counting on a good meal this evening.

Chemo is now slated for next Monday. He needs to be on a folic-acid rich diet prior to this beginning. Today, in addition to some anti-nausea and pain medication, he also received a shot of B 12. Steph asked for a shot too, but they were stingy and only gave Paul the energy boost!

The chemo schedule will be one day of chemo, three weeks off. They will see how he responds to the treatments and adjust or extend accordingly. Radiation will take place after chemo, as the doctor feels that the chemo will help ease the pain in his back as well.

Again, Paul and Steph are so appreciate of the kindness and support they are receiving. "Random Acts of Kindness" are a good thing!

Starting out the week...

...Paul was pleased that the Vikings made a heroic comeback to start out this week with a win. Although tired and understandably worn out from his thorough check-up at the Mayo Clinic, Paul had enough energy to watch the Vikes Sunday afternoon. What a faithful fan!

Friends and family were around to visit this weekend. One thing Paul, Steph, and the girls have learned is the simple power of a kind word or act. Paul has received many messages from friends, co-workers, and even customers. All of our family is thankful for every kindness.

Paul's biggest discomfort at this point is the fluid that builds up in his abdomen. He is going to get that "tapped" today, which will give him great relief. His right lung has also filled up with fluid, so plans are to drain that as well. This fluid build-up really cuts into his energy.

Chemo is to begin Thursday. Radiation for his back is not scheduled yet, but it will be commencing soon.

Stephanie has really hit the books. She is researching any and all possibilities for Paul's treatment and comfort. "Knowledge is power!"

In other news, our Dad's condition has deteriorated rather dramatically, and he is being moved to a nursing home in Grand Forks to better handle his dementia. Our Mom is handling it as well as she can, but with everything going on, we know any visits, calls, or notes would help lift her spirits a bit. If you know Vella, you know phone call isn't necessary before you come over. Stop on by, and she'll be delighted to put on some coffee.

so.. I'm sorry but this is not an update.. I found this on a blog that I pay attention to, and then went to White Castle's website to confirm this was an actual product. Guess what? It is! This is a White Castle candle that produces the scent of a slyder. After paying attention to the posts on your health, and reading that White Castle is one of the things that stays down, I thought of you immediately.. I have heard of aromatherapy helping in some situations but I'm not to sure about the power of this scent. I know this isn't the most helpful post Paul, but I hope it will produce a good laugh.

Back Home

Paul and Steph are back home in Larimore and happy to be there too!

Chemotherapy is slated to begin November 11 at Altru in Grand Forks. If there is a cancellation, Paul could get started earlier. Everyone is relieved that this can begin.

A note that shows just how lovable and charming Paul can be. Of course there have been many tears on this journey, but Steph reported that even the oncologist was in tears on Tuesday at the Mayo Clinic.

Not everyone knows this, but back in his elementary days, Paul had a trick if his Booth Avenue buddies picked him up for school before he could give his Mom a hug and a kiss. He'd start down the sidewalk and then "remember" that he left something at home. He'd run back and give Mom a hug and kiss and be on his way. That Paul Hougen charm must work on the oncologist too?

Have you picked out Paul in the picture? He's the cutie by the cake. Do check out sister Jane adjusting her glasses. She's always been a rebel. We'll try to get some more pictures posted as well.

Thanks for checking in. We have a lengthy prayer list going on, and to the previous list, I can add: Catholic-Lutheran, Irish, German, French, Dane (Mutt:)), Burro, Polar Bear, mother, daughter, sister, Michiganer, Idahoan, cousin, friend, teacher, pastor, scientist, in-law, buddy, aunt... Many, many thanks.

The Plan

Paul and Steph are heading back home today, after two days in Rochester this week. They are anxious to get back home.

As of now, all of Paul's records are being sent to Altru in Grand Forks. The recommendation is to start chemotherapy and radiation.

Please share this blog address with family and friends so they can keep posted and send messages to Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah. Now that they will be home for awhile instead of in various waiting rooms and exam rooms of the Mayo Clinic, they will have time to catch up on the messages.

We have a lot of praying going on - Hougens, Leys, Norwegians, British, Lutherans, Non-Denominationals, Anglicans, Fightin' Irish, North Dakotans, Catholics, Kansans, Minnesotans, Viking Fans, New Yorkers, Chicagoans, Washington D.C.-folk, and I've heard a few accomplished swearers and cursers have sent up a few as well. Keep it up and keep it going.

Back to the Mayo

Paul and Steph headed back to Rochester after a quick trip home to Larimore.

An odd piece of gastronomical news: Paul's abdomen fills up with fluid, which makes quite a dent in his appetite. He knows he needs to eat to keep up his strength, however. He's discovered that Ensure/Ice Cream shakes go down, he also discovered that White Castle burgers hit the spot. So, he's doing the senior citizen/Harold & Kumar food plan. Whatever works!

At Paul's appointment today, he learned that the primary source of his cancer is the lung. Fortunately, they were able to get Paul into a pulmonary oncologist tomorrow morning. This is hopefully where a treatment plan will get hammered out.

He and Steph took home several pounds of informational literature about cancer, chemotherapy, and other medical "stuff." That will make for some light reading tonight.

Paul feels quite certain that he has a lot of praying going on for him. I am certain he's right. Please keep Paul Daniel, Steph, Emma, and Sarah in your prayers. Pray for those doctors too. We want those doctors to be at the very top of their games when dealing with Paul!

Weekend at Home

Paul and Steph came home for a quick weekend. At the end of their week at the Mayo Clinic, they have learned much, but they will return next week to learn more and find out the plan of attack.

What they learned:

• Paul's biopsies came back positive.
• He has a tumor on his lung and in his abdomen.
• Fluid builds up in his abdomen, which makes Paul uncomfortable. When it is drained, he feels much better.
• They are checking out this fluid as well, as it may have cancer cells.
• This is not an "exotic" type of cancer. They have seen this type of cancer before.
• Doctors do not know the "primary" source of the cancer.
• "Primary Source" is where the cancer started. It is important to know this, as this is how the doctors will determine what specialist Paul needs to go to and what "cocktail" of chemotherapy they will prescribe for Paul.
• The doctor suspects three primary sources: the lung, thyroid, or mesothelioma - cancer caused by asbestos (Paul worked in carpentry for several years). This is speculation - more to be determined next week.
• At this point, chemotherapy is the plan for combating the cancer.

What they like about the Mayo:

• Paul and Steph are very impressed with their doctor. They feel they are in excellent hands.
• The Mayo is very thorough and exhaustive in their testing. They will find out exactly what "Paul Hougen's" cancer is like. They are not going to generically treat the "cancer." They will find out as much as possible about Paul's cancer so they can effectively treat it with the right chemotherapy.

What's next:

• Paul has an appointment with his doctor Monday at the Mayo clinic.
• More pathology tests and other tests will point them in the right direction for treatment.

Thank you for keeping posted with Paul's progress. As we learn more, we will update this blog.

Thank you from all of Paul's extended family for your thoughts and prayers. We know there's a long road ahead, but the road is much more bearable with the support of wonderful friends and family.

Day Four - On the Road Home

Paul had his doctor appointment this afternoon, and they like Paul so much at Mayo, they want him back on Monday.

The doctors want more decisive information before they begin treatment, so Paul and Steph will have a quick trip home before they turn around and head back to Rochester. More testing and more results next week will help the doctors determine the origin.

Both really like the doctor.  He reminds Steph of the psychologist on the Geico commercials, Mr. Namby-Pamby land.  Same haircut and build.  Very smart and very straight forward - a little more tactful than the commercial, though.

Day Three at Mayo

Steph reports that Paul looks quite "fetching" in his blue gown and sneakers.  He spent quite a bit of time in that particular outfit today, as he had more tests and procedures.

Last week at Altru in Grand Forks, he had fluid drained from his abdomen which gave him a lot of relief.  They have continued to do that, and today they again drained fluid.  He feels very good after that procedure and gets a little boost in energy.

Paul and Steph had some free time, so they got out and about this afternoon and went to the movie RED starring the old guys.

Paul has an appointment with his doctor tomorrow morning.  No definite news to report at this time.  Hopefully all of this testing will point the doctors in the right direction!

Day Two at the Mayo

Paul had an ultrasound today and other tests and bloodwork.  They had to do a bit of waiting around today, and tomorrow they will start the day with more tests in the morning. Steph has been logging a few hours in various waiting rooms!

He has an appointment with his doctor on Thursday morning, so that is the earliest they will know anything conclusive.

Paul is a little tuckered out at the end of the day!  They are finding their way around Rochester. Their motel is not far from the clinic, and it also has a good restaurant.  They are comfortable there.

They continue to be very impressed with the level of care they are receiving at Mayo.  We are all so happy and relieved he's getting care there.

Day One at the Mayo

Day One at the Mayo left Paul and Steph both exhausted and impressed. 

Paul had a colonoscopy and various blood work completed.  Tuesday will bring some more tests.

Paul and Steph have like the doctors and staff they have worked with so far, and feel good to be in Rochester - it's the best place to be.

Thanks for keeping posted...

Here we go...

Erik set up this blog so we could all stay connected with Paul's progress. 

Hopefully this will be an easy way to keep informed.

You deserve the world's best medical care, Paul, and the Mayo is the place to be. You will be in good hands, and you, Steph, Emma, and Sarah will be in our hearts, on our minds, and in our prayers.

"Keep Calm and Carry On."  We all know the best way to keep calm is to vent every once in awhile with tears and a few good curse words.  Let us know how we can help with keeping, venting, and carrying on!