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Rita Ann

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  1. megestrol
    a synthetic progestational compound used to treat endometrial carcinoma
    Actually she is taking Megestrol daily to enhance appetite which should take effect in 5 to 7 days.
  2. recliner
    an armchair whose back can be lowered
    After Friday's visit with cousins when she went to the recliner in the living room, she has not been out of the bed.
  3. adenocarcinoma
    malignant tumor originating in glandular epithelium
    The official diagnosis is Stage 4 Adenocarcinoma of the Lungs.
  4. tail bone
    the end of the vertebral column in humans and tailless apes
    She awoke at 5AM today for BR trip and was so weak that I had to almost lift her on and off toilet but she went back to sleep with a shot of morphine for the pain in her tail bone.
  5. payables
    money that you currently expect to pay on notes and accounts
    Today she was determined to work on the computer and organize the payables due this month but could not get comfortable with the computer in her lap so if she will let me do it, she can "coach" me from the recliner tomorrow.
  6. hospice
    a lodging for travelers
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  7. nausea
    the state that precedes vomiting
    So the good news is that her appetite is better (not great) and nausea and vomits have not been a problem for 3 days.
  8. healthcare facility
    building where medicine is practiced
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    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  9. chopped steak
    a patty of ground cooked beef
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  10. hairball
    a compact mass of hair that forms in the alimentary canal
    Don


    Thursday, August 5, 2010 8:00 AM, CDT
    It's mid-week now and Rita woke up at 6AM today wanting me to clean the kitty's hairball that got spit up in front of her bedside.
  11. CST
    standard time in the 6th time zone west of Greenwich, reckoned at the 90th meridian; used in the central United States
    Saturday, March 13, 2010 7:19 AM, CST
    Yesterday was a rough day for Rita.
  12. til now
    used in negative statement to describe a situation that has existed up to this point or up to the present time
    So from yesterday afternoon til now, Rita is feeling much better! yes, she had the second chemo treayment this morning and all went well.
  13. chop steak
    a patty of ground cooked beef
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  14. mattress pad
    a protective pad over a mattress to protect it
    A nurse came to our home immediately and evaluated her condition and changed some meds and ordered an improved comfort mattress pad and anything else needed.
  15. oncologist
    a specialist in oncology
    Friday, March 26, 2010 7:08 PM, CDT
    Rita, Don, Debbie and David met with the oncologist today.
  16. radiation therapy
    (medicine) the treatment of disease (especially cancer) by exposure to a radioactive substance
    Tomorrow, Rita's radiation therapy will start back.
  17. blood platelet
    tiny bits of protoplasm found in vertebrate blood
    Sincerely, Don
    Tuesday, August 24, 2010 8:43 AM, CDT
    TodayRita goes back to doctor to check blood platelets to see if she is ready for the Tarceva drug treatment.
  18. update
    modernize
    Mike Manous was referred to as "Mile Manous" in the last update.
  19. CPA
    an accountant who has passed certain examinations and met all other statutory and licensing requirements of a United States state to be certified by that state
    With a masters in finance and being a CPA, Thrifty will finally get professional management and can finally leave the "M0m and POP" era.
  20. inpatient
    a patient who is residing in the hospital where he is being treated
    Rita is going to stay inpatient until they get these symptoms under control.
  21. car rental
    a rented car
    With great leadership from the whole Thrifty team in new airport facilites. we are becoming a real car rental company!
  22. morphine
    an alkaloid narcotic drug extracted from opium
    Wed all day her breathing and awareness changed for the worse so I kept a close watch on her with morphine doeses frequently.
  23. thrifty
    mindful of the future in spending money
    He must have some experience with that in his part time days at Thrifty.
  24. energy level
    a definite stable energy that a physical system can have
    In the meantime every day is managed care for comfort and energy level.
  25. garbage pickup
    the collection and removal of garbage
    I dont't won't to miss the garbage pickup today because cans are full!
  26. chemotherapy
    the use of drugs to treat disease, especially cancer
    She instead began a more standard chemotherapy regimen earlier today.
  27. Friday
    the sixth day of the week; the fifth working day
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  28. beef tenderloin
    beef loin muscle
    And yes, she did watch "Dancing With The Stars" last night in the LR because we do not have a DVR on the BR TV.

    And ,before forget, let me thank my roundtable group for sending Jim Hunt over last night with a beef tenderloin feast!
  29. clinical trial
    a rigorously controlled test of a new drug or a new invasive medical device on human subjects; in the United States it is conducted under the direction of the FDA before being made available for general clinical use
    Then we went on to Dr Penley,s office and learned that Rita did not have to do the clinical trial due to changes in the MrI report.
  30. lung cancer
    carcinoma of the lungs; one of the commonest forms of cancer
    Now this was an interesting visit because Rita asked Yvonn about her son, Brad, who died of lung cancer in 2007 at age 46.
  31. milk shake
    frothy drink of milk and flavoring and sometimes fruit or ice cream
    First a nausea tablet that disolves, then "food " like ceral and bananas, beeforni for lunch or cannation milk shakes and last night 4 bites of pork chop and potatoes.
  32. radiation
    the act of spreading outward from a central source
    The suggestion by Ed Womack, anoher cancer survivor, to take zofran nausa in tablet form that disolve in your mouth was a great prayer answered because Rita still cannot swallow pills well because of the radiation burns to her throat.
  33. Don
    a Spanish gentleman or nobleman
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  34. cancer
    a malignant growth caused by uncontrolled cell division
    Now this was an interesting visit because Rita asked Yvonn about her son, Brad, who died of lung cancer in 2007 at age 46.
  35. scan
    examine minutely or intensely
    The PET scan report was tuesday and some was good and some not.
  36. potty
    (British informal) trivial
    With a push the kitty reluntatly moved and I helped Rita to the bedside potty.
  37. turn on a dime
    have a small turning radius
    You just push the "port" wheel forward and the "starboard" wheel backward and it turns on a dime!
  38. valet parking
    a service provided (at a club or restaurant or airport etc.) whereby a patron leaves a car at the entrance and an attendant parks and retrieves it
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  39. club soda
    effervescent beverage artificially charged with carbon dioxide
    So I get the club soda and wipe it up!
  40. disorient
    cause to be lost or confused
    She became extremely weak over the weekend that she needed help to get in and out of wheelchair to go to BR. Pain patch was increased to 100 mg but that dose has made her very disoriented(she can not remember what day it is or how to work TV remote).
  41. platelet
    a cell fragment essential for blood clotting in vertebrates
    Sincerely, Don
    Tuesday, August 24, 2010 8:43 AM, CDT
    TodayRita goes back to doctor to check blood platelets to see if she is ready for the Tarceva drug treatment.
  42. today
    on this day as distinct from yesterday or tomorrow
    Details about service and life celebration will follow today but we are planning visitation and events about Sept 23 to 25 (in 2 weeks) to have time prepare arangements .
  43. smoothie
    someone with an assured and ingratiating manner
    That means a successful (painless) ride to the BR, only one quick throw-up, and then breakfast of carnation milk with bannas and blueberries blended for a smoothie.
  44. pain
    a physical feeling of suffering or discomfort
    The morphine and pain patch help her sleep and keep pains down that are increasing daily.
  45. thanks
    an acknowledgment of appreciation
    Thanks gain to all of you.
  46. bed cover
    decorative cover for a bed
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  47. motor home
    a recreational vehicle equipped for outdoor living while traveling
    Since she is not able to be on the boat this summer, I had the bright idea that a MOTOR HOME might work for travel after chemo so she could rest while touring.
  48. pot roast
    cut of beef suitable for simmering in liquid in a closed pot
    I am almost done with Christa's pot roast reference in my last notes and it was GOOD Christa.
  49. gross out
    fill with distaste
    We stay prepared with an. in-car-can for these emergencies without grossing out other people at the traffic lights.
  50. hip
    either side of the body below the waist and above the thigh
    And I reduced pain patch to 50 mg last nite to see if that will manage hip pain well enough ....and so she can remembed how to use TV remote.
  51. roundtable
    a meeting of peers for discussion and exchange of views
    The CEO roundtable members, Cedar creek Club members, Rock Harbor Club members and my Skal group that have offered consistant support.
  52. smoothy
    someone with an assured and ingratiating manner
    Rita's special request was a milk shake from Elliston Place Soda Shop which we froze what she did not drink for future Smoothies with fruit added.
  53. treatment
    the management of someone or something
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  54. Tues
    the third day of the week; the second working day
    The hospice nurse was here Tues. afternoon and assisted me with med adjustments and comfort suggestions.
  55. PET
    using a computerized radiographic technique to examine the metabolic activity in various tissues (especially in the brain)
    The PET scan report was tuesday and some was good and some not.
  56. calorie
    unit of heat raising 1 gram of water by 1 degree centigrade
    But appetite is still limited but 1500 calories is our goal per day.
  57. preform
    form or shape beforehand or determine the shape of beforehand
    Since David and Elizabeth were also here with two year old Larkin, they all got to see her sing and preform for her "Grammy" (Rita). larkin went outside and picked her own flowers and put them in a vace for Grammy.
  58. prayer shawl
    a shawl with a ritually knotted fringe at each corner
    Thanks especially to Gail Livingston for the prayer shawl that Rita's keeps near her all day.
  59. zap
    a sudden event that imparts energy or excitement, usually with a dramatic impact
    Pray especially that this chemo doesn't completely zap what energy she has left.
  60. progress report
    a report of work accomplished during a specified time period
    Don



    Sunday, August 29, 2010 7:41 AM, CDT
    It's time for another progress report on Rita's health so I will try to explain her good and not-so-good condition.
  61. ham sandwich
    a sandwich made with a filling of sliced ham
    Soups, small ham sandwichs, and occasional baked beans and potatoe salad work.
  62. thank
    express gratitude or show appreciation to
    Thanks gain to all of you.
  63. pelvis
    the structure of the skeleton supporting the lower limbs
    But the real nagging issue is the small crack n her pelvis bome that shoots pain down her right leg to her ancle when not in the support position of the bed or recliner.So the daily routine is managing the pain meds to be comfortable when she moves.
  64. medication
    something that treats or prevents the symptoms of disease
    I think we all know how horrible those side effects can be so please pray with us that the medications to control the effects work their magic.
  65. side effect
    a secondary and usually adverse effect of a drug or therapy
    Saturday, June 5, 2010 8:43 AM, CDT
    Another week has passed and Rita is still managing side effects of chemo treatments.
  66. pill
    a dose of medicine in the form of a small pellet
    In 10 days Rita will start taking a daily pill,TARCEVA, which is a targeted drug thearpy used in lung cancer treatment.
  67. murder suspect
    someone suspected of committing murder
    Missing the next episode of "Cold Case Files" and trial of the murder suspect could ruin the day.
  68. cards
    a game played with playing cards
    And yes she would be surprised at the at the many people who have expressed in cards and journal notes how she had influenced their lives.
  69. enjoy
    derive or receive pleasure from
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  70. Nashville
    capital of the state of Tennessee
    First
    Previous
    «
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5
    6
    of 19
    »
    Next
    Last

    See All Photos
    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  71. Elvis
    street name for lysergic acid diethylamide
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  72. MRI
    the use of nuclear magnetic resonance of protons to produce proton density images
    Rita and I had an interesting day today.Rita had an MRI scheduled at 7.30 this morning and we normally are never anywhere at that early hour.. except when I have a CEO meeting.
  73. boating
    water travel for pleasure
    Weather is beautiful, not as hot...yet, and a perfect boating day for those on the water.
  74. spit up
    discharge from the lungs and out of the mouth
    Don


    Thursday, August 5, 2010 8:00 AM, CDT
    It's mid-week now and Rita woke up at 6AM today wanting me to clean the kitty's hairball that got spit up in front of her bedside.
  75. flower arrangement
    a decorative arrangement of flowers
    Sue McSweeney brought a delicious cake Sunday and Christa Huesby cooked a mexixcan special that lasted two meals for me.And yesterday Rebecca Ramsey sent a very beautiful flower arrangement.
  76. Ron
    a Chadic language spoken in northern Nigeria
    Harold and Nancy, Bob and Christa, Ron and Karen, Dennis and Becky, Dick and Juliet, Bill and Donna, Varralo's, and many,many other friends and family who have continually been there for us.
  77. voice mail
    a computerized system for answering and routing telephone calls; telephone messages can be recorded and stored and relayed
    Home phone is 615 665 1614 with voice mail on both.
  78. schedule
    a list of times at which things are planned to occur
    Let me share a small part of the evening of Rita's pasing on Sept 8 at 8:45 PM. All of us were with her except Debbie who was on the plane scheduled to land at 11PM.
  79. bed
    a piece of furniture that provides a place to sleep
    Daughters Debra Smith and Michele Burgner changed her bed and clothes that nite.
  80. blah
    pompous or pretentious talk or writing
    (David Wilson,Rita's son, left Kraft CPA's to become CFO of our company)

    The chemo treatment that she took last friday probably contributes to the "blah--blah mood she has been in.
  81. manage
    be in charge of, act on, or dispose of
    The goal now is to live better and maybe longer while managing a life-limiting disease.
  82. rental
    the act of paying for the use of something
    With great leadership from the whole Thrifty team in new airport facilites. we are becoming a real car rental company!
  83. visit
    the act of going to see some person or place or thing for a short time
    The good news is that the weather was beautiful over the Labor Day weekend and all of our kids (adults over 40) were here to visit with Rita.
  84. prayer
    reverent petition to a deity
    Thanks again to all for continued prayers and support.
  85. Chattanooga
    a city in eastern Tennessee
    And then Rita's cousin from Chattanooga, Lowell Bennington, stopped in for a great "reunion" of family times.
  86. eat
    take in solid food
    Today Don Weidnecht brought lunch for me whils Rita napped in the recliner but he left cookies made by Susie which Rita ate with milk later in the day.
  87. nagging
    continually complaining or faultfinding
    But her energy level and nausea resumed by Sunday alongwith that nagging cough.
  88. cook out
    cook outdoors on a barbecue grill
    Don and Susie Weidknecht cooked out with us on Friday.
  89. Tuesday
    the third day of the week; the second working day
    Tuesday, August 31, 2010 11:39 PM, CDT
    Well it's Tuesday nite and Rita and I have already had a full week of visitors and great comfort care from Alive Hospice!
  90. parkway
    a wide scenic road planted with trees
    Sincerly, Don



    Saturday, May 29, 2010 8:49 AM, CDT
    As a follow up to the last entry just completed, I forgot to mention Chris Wroblesky, Thrifty's station manager at the Briley Parkway office.
  91. September 11
    the day in 2001 when Arab suicide bombers hijacked United States airliners and used them as bombs
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  92. cookout
    an informal meal cooked and eaten outdoors
    We had our own Labor day cookout complete with homemade ice cream.
  93. Livingston
    American Revolutionary leader who served in the Continental Congress and as minister to France (1746-1813)
    Gayle Livingston had a nice visit with Rita on Friday which Rita enjoyed.
  94. ester
    formed by reaction between an acid and an alcohol with elimination of water
    Ester, the hospice aid also came in at 2'30 to give Rita a shower and she and Jerry, the hospice nurse, did a great job assisting Rita with her needs.
  95. appetite
    a feeling of craving something
    You never know what her appetite will crave for now!
  96. club member
    someone who is a member of a club
    The CEO roundtable members, Cedar creek Club members, Rock Harbor Club members and my Skal group that have offered consistant support.
  97. adjustable
    capable of being changed so as to match or fit
    Today, Monday, Rita stayed in bed to noon and managed a shower before we made our first trip to Dr Cato in our brand new Drive Delux (fancy black wheel chair) with chrome wheel pullers and adjustable "wheelee" wheels and foot rests.
  98. Saturday
    the seventh and last day of the week
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  99. continue
    keep or maintain in unaltered condition
    Thanks again to all for continued prayers and support.
  100. Thursday
    the fifth day of the week; the fourth working day
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  101. celebration
    a joyful occasion for festivities to mark some happy event
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  102. Mary Jane
    street names for marijuana
    Mary Jane and Jim Hagar saw her briefly about 5PM with no response.
  103. Monday
    the second day of the week; the first working day
    Hospice sent a nurse on Monday to insert a catherter for urination and gave me directions for continuing care.
  104. applesauce
    puree of stewed apples usually sweetened and spiced
    Such as sliding pills down with applesauce and using a "shot" glass to gulp cough syrup instead of a messy spoon.
  105. Karen
    the Tibeto-Burman language spoken in the Thailand and Burmese borderlands
    Harold and Nancy, Bob and Christa, Ron and Karen, Dennis and Becky, Dick and Juliet, Bill and Donna, Varralo's, and many,many other friends and family who have continually been there for us.
  106. meal
    any of the occasions for eating food that occur by custom or habit at more or less fixed times
    Three days of wine and beer bottles along with meals for 10 or more creates a lot of trash.
  107. clinical
    relating to or based on direct observation of patients
    Then we went on to Dr Penley,s office and learned that Rita did not have to do the clinical trial due to changes in the MrI report.
  108. card
    thin cardboard, usually rectangular
    And yes she would be surprised at the at the many people who have expressed in cards and journal notes how she had influenced their lives.
  109. yesterday
    the day immediately before today
    Her beauty shines through ,with or without Mary Kay. The Hospice nurse came out again yesterday and noted her rapid decline and advised how to administer meds with changing conditions.
  110. walking shoe
    a light comfortable shoe designed for vigorous walking
    Despite the pain in her leg, she still picked out a matching top and pants to go with her blue stripe walking shoes.
  111. tomorrow
    the day after today
    She got to see Grammy's "new" bed that moves with a "remote"like the TV.

    Tomorrow morning I will be quiter than today since I woke her up cussing my new computer.
  112. quality of life
    your personal satisfaction (or dissatisfaction) with the cultural or intellectual conditions under which you live (as distinct from material comfort)
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  113. wheelchair
    a movable chair mounted on large wheels
    She became extremely weak over the weekend that she needed help to get in and out of wheelchair to go to BR. Pain patch was increased to 100 mg but that dose has made her very disoriented(she can not remember what day it is or how to work TV remote).
  114. move around
    pass to the other side of
    That is why she does not get up much or move around to keep from getting sick.
  115. Sat
    the seventh and last day of the week
    Don



    Wednesday, September 8, 2010 7:35 AM, CDT
    It's Wed. morning, Sept. 8th, and it seems like ages ago since my notes of Sat, Sept. 4th, only 4 days.
  116. endue
    give qualities or abilities to
    I may need more help in coming weeks since Rita does need daily help while enduing the side effects of chemo.
  117. kraft
    strong wrapping paper made from pulp processed with a sulfur solution
    (David Wilson,Rita's son, left Kraft CPA's to become CFO of our company)

    The chemo treatment that she took last friday probably contributes to the "blah--blah mood she has been in.
  118. hospital bed
    a single bed with a frame in three sections so the head or middle or foot can be raised as required
    He got the oxygen machine working and helped me bring the power hospital bed to our room which we have had since March.
  119. good morning
    a conventional expression of greeting or farewell
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  120. Wednesday
    the fourth day of the week; the third working day
    Don



    Wednesday, September 8, 2010 7:35 AM, CDT
    It's Wed. morning, Sept. 8th, and it seems like ages ago since my notes of Sat, Sept. 4th, only 4 days.
  121. cough
    a sudden noisy expulsion of air from the lungs that clears the air passages; a common symptom of upper respiratory infection or bronchitis or pneumonia or tuberculosis
    Tumor in the lung has decreased or not grown (less coughing noticed) but tumor in the liver has grown or not changed (reason for no appetite).
  122. day
    time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  123. info
    a message received and understood
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  124. throw up
    eject the contents of the stomach through the mouth
    At least she has not thrown up.
  125. napped
    (of fabrics) having soft nap produced by brushing
    Today Don Weidnecht brought lunch for me whils Rita napped in the recliner but he left cookies made by Susie which Rita ate with milk later in the day.
  126. challenge
    a call to engage in a contest or fight
    Each day will be a new challenge until her strength improves and perspectives for the future.
  127. diagnose
    subject to a medical analysis
    Today, Rita was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the lungs.
  128. waking up
    the act of waking
    She is waking up and calling.
  129. crispy
    tender and brittle
    But last week she had a taste for Kentucky Fried Chicken, extra crispy, so off I go to Charlotte Ave in 5 o'clock traffic to get it!
  130. David
    the 2nd king of the Israelites
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  131. wake up
    stop sleeping
    Yesterday, (Friday) I stayed home with Debbie to care for Rita but she did not wake up until 1:30 PM! I really thought she was in a coma, but the hospice nurse came in at 2PM and she was OK...sort of.
  132. disoriented
    having lost your bearings
    She became extremely weak over the weekend that she needed help to get in and out of wheelchair to go to BR. Pain patch was increased to 100 mg but that dose has made her very disoriented(she can not remember what day it is or how to work TV remote).
  133. playlist
    a list of musical selections for performance or for broadcast by radio
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  134. yacht club
    club that promotes and supports yachting and boating
    Lorna used her time with Rita to study her lines for her role in the up coming Cedar Creek Yacht Club play "Golden Girls" in September.
  135. CFO
    the corporate executive having financial authority to make appropriations and authorize expenditures for a firm
    (David Wilson,Rita's son, left Kraft CPA's to become CFO of our company)

    The chemo treatment that she took last friday probably contributes to the "blah--blah mood she has been in.
  136. funeral home
    a mortuary where those who knew the deceased can come to pay their last respects
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  137. lung
    either of two saclike respiratory organs in the chest of vertebrates; serves to remove carbon dioxide and provide oxygen to the blood
    Now this was an interesting visit because Rita asked Yvonn about her son, Brad, who died of lung cancer in 2007 at age 46.
  138. hopefully
    it is hoped
    Hopefully Rita will discuss more about life issues that she is concerned about.
  139. improve
    to make better
    A nurse came to our home immediately and evaluated her condition and changed some meds and ordered an improved comfort mattress pad and anything else needed.
  140. maybe
    by chance
    She is still asleep so maybe today will be a good one for her.
  141. backup
    the act of providing approval and support
    On monday the social service member of Hospice visited and gained info about Rita and made some suggestions for her care, like a bedside potty and oxygen machine which was delivered by 5 PM. The potty is a backup if the driver of the WC can't get there fast enough.
  142. good
    having desirable or positive qualities
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  143. red blood cell
    a mature blood cell that contains hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the bodily tissues; a biconcave disc that has no nucleus
    She had her 4th chemo treatment and a dose of PROCRIT last friday to produce more red blood cells to offset her anemic condition and to avoid the need for a blood tranfusion.
  144. urination
    the discharge of urine
    Hospice sent a nurse on Monday to insert a catherter for urination and gave me directions for continuing care.
  145. Sunday
    first day of the week
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  146. get
    come into the possession of something concrete or abstract
    She is continuing to get weaker.
  147. service department
    the division of a business that provides customer services
    Everyone in the service department and rental operations has done an outstanding job.
  148. regimen
    a systematic plan for therapy
    She instead began a more standard chemotherapy regimen earlier today.
  149. fire truck
    any of various large trucks that carry firemen and equipment to the site of a fire
    I told him the fire truck was on the way to get me now, but i asked them to wait until the Hagers and Hunters left.
  150. Wed
    the fourth day of the week; the third working day
    Wed all day her breathing and awareness changed for the worse so I kept a close watch on her with morphine doeses frequently.
  151. Labor Day
    first Monday in September in the United States and Canada
    The good news is that the weather was beautiful over the Labor Day weekend and all of our kids (adults over 40) were here to visit with Rita.
  152. caregiver
    a person responsible for attending to the needs of a child
    And my caregiver substitute, LORNA SULLINS, who spent 3 days with Rita this past weekend while I was in Chattanooga for my father's memorial and party.
  153. 30 minutes
    a half of an hour
    Her breathing rate really increased so I called the hospice nurse out again and morphine was authorized again every 30 minutes.
  154. Calorie
    a unit of heat equal to the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by one degree at one atmosphere pressure; used by nutritionists to characterize the energy-producing potential in food
    Calorie counting and eating are each day's challenge with a goal of at least 1500 a day.
  155. fan mail
    mail sent to public figures from their admirers
    Rita has fan mail every day and looks forward to it.
  156. good time
    a highly pleasurable or exciting experience
    But we all had a good time and Rita was in sight so we could check on her consistently.
  157. two year old
    a racehorse that is two years old
    Since David and Elizabeth were also here with two year old Larkin, they all got to see her sing and preform for her "Grammy" (Rita). larkin went outside and picked her own flowers and put them in a vace for Grammy.
  158. week
    any period of seven consecutive days
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  159. 65th
    the ordinal number of sixty-five in counting order
    It's like we are all preparing a big "surprise" party for Rita's 65th birthday in December.
  160. pasta
    shaped and dried dough made from flour and water and sometimes egg
    She can stay by herself for a few hours as long as I am back to prepare delicious meals.She loves my pasta dishes with noodles, meat sauce with cheese....
  161. evaluate
    estimate the nature, quality, ability or significance of
    A nurse came to our home immediately and evaluated her condition and changed some meds and ordered an improved comfort mattress pad and anything else needed.
  162. eating
    the act of consuming food
    Appetite is gone and mouth tasts like metal so eating anything is a challenge.
  163. sleep
    a natural and periodic state of rest
    The morphine and pain patch help her sleep and keep pains down that are increasing daily.
  164. feel
    be conscious of a physical, mental, or emotional state
    He felt it might help her be more comfortable.
  165. lymph node
    the source of lymph and lymphocytes
    It has spread throughout her body and into her lymph nodes.
  166. healthcare
    the preservation of mental and physical health by preventing or treating illness through services offered by the health profession
    First
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    See All Photos
    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  167. campsite
    a site where people can pitch a tent
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  168. nag
    bother persistently with trivial complaints
    But her energy level and nausea resumed by Sunday alongwith that nagging cough.
  169. prepare
    make ready or suitable or equip in advance
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  170. spaced
    spaced apart
    I'm not exactly sure what that will consist of, but her treatments, from what I understand, will be spaced 21 days apart.
  171. prepare for
    prepare mentally or emotionally for something unpleasant
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  172. scrambled eggs
    eggs beaten and cooked to a soft firm consistency while stirring
    She has enjoyed scrambled eggs with cheese this week with soft toast and jam yesterday.
  173. need
    require or want
    I must go now to attend to her needs.
  174. daily
    of or belonging to or occurring every day
    The morphine and pain patch help her sleep and keep pains down that are increasing daily.
  175. pappa
    an informal term for a father
    In 30 minutes Pappa Johns had a fresh one at the door and Rita ate a large slice.
  176. subside
    wear off or die down
    The intense pain in her neck and hip do seem to be subsiding on most days.
  177. boost
    increase
    Rita is eating about the same with supplements of Boost.
  178. relive
    experience again, often in the imagination
    I need to review all Deb's BVI trip pictures from 07 (Wow,3 years ago) and relive the "good ole days".
  179. stuff
    the tangible substance that goes into a physical object
    I am really a nerd with that stuff.
  180. city manager
    the head of a city government
    With Chris Turner doing an outstanding job as City manager with fleet and rate management along with Ashley Phillips who manages and schedules all rental staff, Thrifty is able to function without me or Rita!
  181. stay
    continue in a place, position, or situation
    Debbie came in from Atlanta on Wed nite so she stayed with Rita while I went to the office.I could still remember how to get there and my desk had not been moved, but I wasn't on the work schedule.
  182. again
    anew
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  183. routine
    an unvarying or habitual method or procedure
    But we do have fun with her reminding me do do stuff and not forgeting any part of our new daily routine.
  184. April
    the month following March and preceding May
    Don
    Friday, April 30, 2010 2:26 PM, CDT
    Just a quick update from this morning..
  185. yahoo
    a person who is not intelligent or interested in culture
    E-MAIL AUTHOR
    elua00@yahoo.com
  186. better
    superior to another in excellence or quality or desirability
    Well the weather was better news than Rita's condition so hre it is.
  187. donate
    give to a charity or good cause
    Donate now to CaringBridge in tribute to Rita.
  188. obituary
    a notice of someone's death
    The official obituary will give notice of where to send honorary gifts to Rita's favorite charities.
  189. beer bottle
    a bottle that holds beer
    Three days of wine and beer bottles along with meals for 10 or more creates a lot of trash.
  190. will
    the capability of conscious choice and decision
    The official obituary will give notice of where to send honorary gifts to Rita's favorite charities.
  191. scheduled
    planned for some certain time or times
    Let me share a small part of the evening of Rita's pasing on Sept 8 at 8:45 PM. All of us were with her except Debbie who was on the plane scheduled to land at 11PM.
  192. fun
    activities that are enjoyable or amusing
    But we do have fun with her reminding me do do stuff and not forgeting any part of our new daily routine.
  193. traffic light
    a visual signal to control the flow of traffic at intersections
    We stay prepared with an. in-car-can for these emergencies without grossing out other people at the traffic lights.
  194. game show
    a television or radio program in which contestants compete for awards
    Highlights of the week are "PEOPLE" magazine on Fridays, THE CLOSER TV series and game shows...and me for errands and necessities.
  195. jigger
    a small glass adequate to hold a single swallow of whiskey
    Then Rita takes a jigger of liquid pain med and then a nap, suppplemented by a zanax anxiety pill.
  196. all
    entirely or completely
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  197. time
    the continuum of experience in which events pass to the past
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  198. goal
    the state of affairs that a plan is intended to achieve
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  199. good day
    a farewell remark
    Maybe feel good days are ahead.
  200. sign off
    cease broadcasting; get off the air; as of radio stations
    Sunday, March 28, 2010 2:18 PM, CDT
    oops, forgot to sign off ... previous entry by Don Burgner



    Sunday, March 28, 2010 1:34 PM, CDT
    Good afternoon family and friends.
  201. weekend
    a time period usually extending from Friday night through Sunday; more loosely defined as any period of successive days including one and only one Sunday
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  202. handrail
    a railing at the side of a staircase or balcony
    Showers take a lot of strength with a seat and handrails but we do get a couple in every week.(Hospice will be able to help with bathing and care if needed) Last evening during the Braves game, she woke up after a nap and said she was hungry... and wanted a pizza!
  203. tenderloin
    the tender meat of the loin muscle on each side of the vertebral column
    And yes, she did watch "Dancing With The Stars" last night in the LR because we do not have a DVR on the BR TV.

    And ,before forget, let me thank my roundtable group for sending Jim Hunt over last night with a beef tenderloin feast!
  204. shower
    a brief period of precipitation
    Ester, the hospice aid also came in at 2'30 to give Rita a shower and she and Jerry, the hospice nurse, did a great job assisting Rita with her needs.
  205. nurse
    one skilled in caring for young children or the sick
    The hospice nurse was here Tues. afternoon and assisted me with med adjustments and comfort suggestions.
  206. insulate
    surround with material to protect from heat, cold, or noise
    Of course Rita never moves during the nite...the pain meds insulate her from all the animal movements.
  207. days
    the time during which someone's life continues
    Don



    Wednesday, September 8, 2010 7:35 AM, CDT
    It's Wed. morning, Sept. 8th, and it seems like ages ago since my notes of Sat, Sept. 4th, only 4 days.
  208. manicure
    professional care for the hands and fingernails
    The good news this week is that Rita decided to get her hair done and a manicure on Thursday.
  209. tire
    lose interest or become bored with something or somebody
    It was a great day but she was tired.
  210. deb
    a young woman making her debut into society
    Thanks also to Deb and Jim Varello for the neat digital pcture frame sent this week.
  211. help
    give assistance; be of service
    The morphine and pain patch help her sleep and keep pains down that are increasing daily.
  212. comfort
    a state of being relaxed and feeling no pain
    The hospice nurse was here Tues. afternoon and assisted me with med adjustments and comfort suggestions.
  213. casserole
    large deep dish in which food can be cooked and served
    First, Sheila Crisp also came over yesterday and brought a turkey casserole for me in addition to her fun, exciting presonality that always lifts Rita's spirits.
  214. fracture
    breaking of hard tissue such as bone
    The pain in her hip(fracture in pelvic bone) is not there!
  215. parking
    the act of maneuvering a vehicle into a location where it can be left temporarily
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  216. visitation
    the act of going to see some person or place
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  217. taco
    a tortilla rolled cupped around a filling
    Christa brought Taco soup back for Rita which she enjoyed.
  218. March
    the month following February and preceding April
    He got the oxygen machine working and helped me bring the power hospital bed to our room which we have had since March.
  219. food
    any substance that can be metabolized by an animal
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  220. patch
    a small contrasting part of something
    The morphine and pain patch help her sleep and keep pains down that are increasing daily.
  221. ongoing
    currently happening
    But the ongoing issue now is weakness and low energy level that keeps interest from doing anything except limited TV and resting.
  222. nap
    a short period of sleep
    Today Don Weidnecht brought lunch for me whils Rita napped in the recliner but he left cookies made by Susie which Rita ate with milk later in the day.
  223. tumor
    an abnormal new mass of tissue that serves no purpose
    Tumor in the lung has decreased or not grown (less coughing noticed) but tumor in the liver has grown or not changed (reason for no appetite).
  224. pray
    address a deity, a prophet, a saint or an object of worship
    Pray for a good day TODAY!
  225. living room
    a room in a private house or establishment where people can sit and talk and relax
    After Friday's visit with cousins when she went to the recliner in the living room, she has not been out of the bed.
  226. wake
    stop sleeping
    Yesterday, (Friday) I stayed home with Debbie to care for Rita but she did not wake up until 1:30 PM! I really thought she was in a coma, but the hospice nurse came in at 2PM and she was OK...sort of.
  227. morning
    the time period between dawn and noon
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  228. discus
    an athletic competition in which a circular object is thrown
    Hopefully Rita will discuss more about life issues that she is concerned about.
  229. sandwich
    two (or more) slices of bread with a filling between them
    I made her a chichen sandwich the next day from the left overs.
  230. but
    and nothing more
    But she may surprise us when she brings Elvis to sing with her at her party.
  231. energy
    forceful exertion
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  232. tiring
    producing exhaustion
    A walk across the room is very tiring and leaves her out of breath.
  233. Nancy
    a city in northeastern France in Lorraine
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  234. bedside
    space by the side of a bed
    Debbie arrived at 11 Pm so we called the hospice chaplain and nurse for a family bedside service before Rita's body was removed.
  235. coaching
    the job of a professional coach
    But she does like "coaching ' me in the kitchen as a reference to where everything is and to make sure I put thing back in thei place.
  236. can
    airtight sealed metal container for food or drink, etc.
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  237. afternoon
    the part of the day between noon and evening
    The hospice nurse was here Tues. afternoon and assisted me with med adjustments and comfort suggestions.
  238. nerd
    a student ridiculed as being boringly studious
    I am really a nerd with that stuff.
  239. memorial
    a recognition of meritorious service
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  240. rolling stock
    collection of wheeled vehicles owned by a railroad or motor carrier
    Oh, I forgot to mention that Rita got a new addition to her "rolling stock".
  241. August 15
    celebration in the Roman Catholic Church of the Virgin Mary's being taken up into heaven when her earthly life ended; corresponds to the Dormition in the Eastern Orthodox Church
    Don


    Sunday, August 15, 2010 8:18 AM, CDT
    Here is a short progress report on Rita.
  242. leg
    a human limb
    She can actually sit in the WC and on the throne without leg pain.
  243. hop up
    make more powerful
    This morning Rita woke up at 5AM asking for help and needing to go to BR. So I hop up and find the kitty asleep on her stomach which was creating a little bladder pressure.
  244. puller
    someone who applies force so as to cause motion toward herself or himself
    Today, Monday, Rita stayed in bed to noon and managed a shower before we made our first trip to Dr Cato in our brand new Drive Delux (fancy black wheel chair) with chrome wheel pullers and adjustable "wheelee" wheels and foot rests.
  245. plan
    a series of steps to be carried out or goals to be achieved
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  246. pelvic
    of or relating to the pelvis
    The pain in her hip(fracture in pelvic bone) is not there!
  247. therapy
    the act of providing treatment for an illness or disorder
    Tomorrow, Rita's radiation therapy will start back.
  248. ham
    meat cut from the thigh of a hog (usually smoked)
    Soups, small ham sandwichs, and occasional baked beans and potatoe salad work.
  249. last
    coming after all others in time or space or degree or being the only one remaining
    The last journal note gave details on those events.
  250. September
    the month following August and preceding October
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  251. now
    at the present moment
    We know now that Rita can now meet and sing with Elvis!
  252. good night
    a conventional expression of farewell
    Good night.
  253. bedtime
    the time you go to bed
    She watched TV till bedtime and I made a hard boiled egg sandwich for for dinner.
  254. sleeping
    the state of being asleep
    Don



    Friday, July 9, 2010 9:13 AM, CDT
    It's 9:30 AM and Rita is still sleeping.
  255. hookup
    a device providing a connection between a power source and a user
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  256. dishwasher
    someone who washes dishes
    Dishwashers and washing machines are easy with a push of a button and Kroeger shopping is fun too.
  257. hospital
    a medical institution where sick or injured people are given medical or surgical care
    First
    Previous
    «
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5
    6
    of 19
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    Next
    Last

    See All Photos
    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  258. devastate
    cause extensive destruction or ruin utterly
    While we are all devastated by this news, I think in our own ways, we were prepared for it.
  259. resilient
    recovering readily from adversity, depression, or the like
    She is quitely resilient during this and does not dwell on the big picture of this illness.
  260. keep up
    maintain a required pace or level
    Thanks for keeping up with us.
  261. DVD
    a digital recording (as of a movie) on an optical disk that can be played on a computer or a television set
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  262. toxic
    of or relating to or caused by a poison
    So a less toxic chemo was selected with only two drugs and she completed the first treatment today.This chemo will have no hair loss and will be managed by Dr Penley instead of a trial doctor for the group.
  263. Chico
    United States comedian
    Christa Huseby bought her some new clothes at Chico's that fit...Rita is a 0 or 1 size today for her trim 125 lbs.
  264. process
    a particular course of action intended to achieve a result
    This means Ester had to hand her the makeup and face creames etc. that completes the process while Rita keeps the oxygen clip in her nose!
  265. March 17
    a day observed by the Irish to commemorate the patron saint of Ireland
    Wednesday, March 17, 2010 5:32 PM, CDT
    For the most part, the adjustment from the hospital to home has gone well for Rita.
  266. walker
    a person who travels by foot
    A friend gave us a "sport model" walker complete with seat and basket.
  267. anemic
    relating to or having a deficiency of red blood cells
    She had her 4th chemo treatment and a dose of PROCRIT last friday to produce more red blood cells to offset her anemic condition and to avoid the need for a blood tranfusion.
  268. heal
    recover
    In time, the crack should heal but when we don'know.
  269. come by
    obtain, especially accidentally
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  270. marina
    a fancy dock for small yachts and cabin cruisers
    Rita could not eat but she enjoyed the visit.Michele stayed with Rita on Sat. so I could take the boat for a cruise with Don and Susie to Gallatin Marina for lunch.
  271. lunch
    a midday meal
    My friends Charlie Umbarger and Mark Slater drove over from Chatt. to visit so we went to lunch before driving back to my house to see Rita.
  272. oxygen
    a colorless, odorless gas that is essential for respiration
    This means Ester had to hand her the makeup and face creames etc. that completes the process while Rita keeps the oxygen clip in her nose!
  273. slater
    any of various small terrestrial isopods having a flat elliptical segmented body; found in damp habitats
    My friends Charlie Umbarger and Mark Slater drove over from Chatt. to visit so we went to lunch before driving back to my house to see Rita.
  274. on time
    at the expected time
    To make Rita sleep better, Dr Penley ordered a special bed to ease her pain in the hip while it heals and thew in a wheel chair so I could get her to appointments easier, and on time!
  275. cedar
    any cedar of the genus Cedrus
    The CEO roundtable members, Cedar creek Club members, Rock Harbor Club members and my Skal group that have offered consistant support.
  276. August 1
    commemorates Saint Peter's miraculous deliverance from prison; a quarter day in Scotland; a harvest festival in England
    Don



    Sunday, August 1, 2010 7:53 AM, CDT
    Here is a brief update on Rita.
  277. feel like
    have an inclination for something or some activity
    She will answer if she feels like it.
  278. old fashioned
    a cocktail made of whiskey and bitters and sugar with fruit slices
    But he is a great friend and survives and runs a busines on charm and old fashioned BS. Now about those answered prayers(othe than the miracle) Rita managed to eat 3 good meals yesterday and move to the recliner where she visited with Julie Hafner, her personal trainer from the YMCA.
  279. curing
    the process of becoming hard or solid by cooling or drying or crystallization
    We assume it is all part of the "cancer curing chemo process" that has to be endured.
  280. not
    negation of a word or group of words
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  281. weak
    wanting in physical strength
    She has had a few visitors and she recognized them and responded with a weak hello.
  282. 4th
    coming next after the third and just before the fifth in position or time or degree or magnitude
    Don



    Wednesday, September 8, 2010 7:35 AM, CDT
    It's Wed. morning, Sept. 8th, and it seems like ages ago since my notes of Sat, Sept. 4th, only 4 days.
  283. rearrange
    put into a new order or arrangement
    So now that I have rearranged the bedroom for the new bed and have set the oxygen machine for the nite, it's time for another beer!
  284. blood cell
    either of two types of cells (erythrocytes and leukocytes) and sometimes including platelets
    She had her 4th chemo treatment and a dose of PROCRIT last friday to produce more red blood cells to offset her anemic condition and to avoid the need for a blood tranfusion.
  285. distilled water
    water that has been purified by distillation
    Since a distilled water


    attachment had to be installed with a plastic screw, I waited to today for the hospice nurse to put it on.
  286. steak
    a slice of meat cut from the fleshy part of an animal
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  287. skillet
    a pan used for frying foods
    The skillet is getting hot and she wants to eat in 5 minutes!
  288. asleep
    in a state of sleep
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  289. wheel
    a simple machine consisting of a circular frame with spokes (or a solid disc) that can rotate on a shaft or axle (as in vehicles or other machines)
    This complements the "sedan model ' (wheel chair).
  290. CEO
    the corporate executive responsible for the operations of the firm; reports to a board of directors; may appoint other managers (including a president)
    The CEO roundtable members, Cedar creek Club members, Rock Harbor Club members and my Skal group that have offered consistant support.
  291. friend
    a person you know well and regard with affection and trust
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  292. airport
    an airfield equipped with control tower and hangars as well as accommodations for passengers and cargo
    Chris has helped get our IT equipment moved to the expanded counter location in the Nashville airport.
  293. eat on
    worry or cause anxiety in a persistent way
    I really have enjoyed making meals at home and eating on more of a schjedule.
  294. cruise
    travel about for pleasure, relaxation, or sightseeing
    Rita could not eat but she enjoyed the visit.Michele stayed with Rita on Sat. so I could take the boat for a cruise with Don and Susie to Gallatin Marina for lunch.
  295. another
    an additional or different one
    So now that I have rearranged the bedroom for the new bed and have set the oxygen machine for the nite, it's time for another beer!
  296. supportive
    furnishing assistance
    First I want to thank everyone for for the many kind words of encouragement and supportive cards sent to Rita.
  297. news
    information about recent and important events
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  298. supplement
    an additional component that improves capability
    Rita is eating about the same with supplements of Boost.
  299. bring on
    cause to arise
    She does not have pain and can walk across the room without the WC, but it tires her and brings on the cough with too much movement.
  300. docking
    the act of securing an arriving vessel with ropes
    I guess I know who will be docking the boat when she gets well this summer!
  301. support
    the act of bearing the weight of or strengthening
    Thanks again to all for continued prayers and support.
  302. work
    activity directed toward making or doing something
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  303. option
    one of a number of things from which only one can be chosen
    Treating lung cancer is a moving target with different applications for different patients with new trials going on every day to discover improved treatment options.
  304. stabilized
    made stable or firm
    Weight has stabilized for now.
  305. trivia
    something of small importance
    I hope this trivia doesn't
    bore our faithful readers.
  306. sincerely
    without pretense
    Sincerely, Don
    Tuesday, August 24, 2010 8:43 AM, CDT
    TodayRita goes back to doctor to check blood platelets to see if she is ready for the Tarceva drug treatment.
  307. Turner
    English landscape painter whose treatment of light and color influenced the French impressionists (1775-1851)
    Then our managers at Thrifty, Chris Turner and Ashley Phillips, came for a visit and stayed until the hospice nurse arrived to adjust meds and attend to Rita's needs.
  308. get up
    rise to one's feet
    Yesterday she did not get up until 1030AM and stayed in bed all day.
  309. progress
    the act of moving forward, as toward a goal
    Don



    Sunday, August 29, 2010 7:41 AM, CDT
    It's time for another progress report on Rita's health so I will try to explain her good and not-so-good condition.
  310. coughing
    a sudden noisy expulsion of air from the lungs that clears the air passages; a common symptom of upper respiratory infection or bronchitis or pneumonia or tuberculosis
    Tumor in the lung has decreased or not grown (less coughing noticed) but tumor in the liver has grown or not changed (reason for no appetite).
  311. August
    the month following July and preceding September
    Tuesday, August 31, 2010 11:39 PM, CDT
    Well it's Tuesday nite and Rita and I have already had a full week of visitors and great comfort care from Alive Hospice!
  312. effects
    property of a personal character that is portable
    Saturday, June 5, 2010 8:43 AM, CDT
    Another week has passed and Rita is still managing side effects of chemo treatments.
  313. anymore
    at the present or from now on; usually used with a negative
    David said we don't fire people , their name just does't apear on the schedule anymore if they don't show up.
  314. recovery
    return to an original state
    It's been a tough week for nashville's flood recovery but we were were fortunate to have a dry home and office. ( not counting 10 flooded rental cars, but that's another story)

    Rita's week was not the best but Saturday was better.
  315. club
    a formal association of people with similar interests
    I give her "fan club" mail to her every day and we both thank you for thinking of us.
  316. caterer
    someone who provides food and service (as for a party)
    Probably next week when the caterer is back from vacation.
  317. compiling
    the act of compiling (as into a single book or file or list)
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  318. trivium
    (Middle Ages) an introductory curriculum at a medieval university involving grammar and logic and rhetoric; considered to be a triple way to eloquence
    I hope this trivia doesn't
    bore our faithful readers.
  319. peddle
    sell or offer for sale from place to place
    The hip pain is gone so she can walk to BR and move around better with the WC as a walker or she can peddle it herself.
  320. posted
    publicly announced
    I will keep you posted on new developments.
  321. cook up
    prepare or cook by mixing ingredients
    Ron cooked up a great pasta and sauce for Sat nite wiyh enough left over for me this week.
  322. burger
    a hamburger
    The Wendy's burger saved me!
  323. compile
    get or gather together
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  324. photo
    a picture taken with a camera or phone that shows people or scenes
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  325. keep
    continue a certain state, condition, or activity
    Wed all day her breathing and awareness changed for the worse so I kept a close watch on her with morphine doeses frequently.
  326. sherry
    dry to sweet amber wine from the Jerez region of southern Spain or similar wines produced elsewhere; usually drunk as an aperitif
    Especially Tommy and Sherry Francis, Marty Ligon, Mary Jane and Jim Hagar,Eddie and Marshal, Nancy Morris, Christa Huseby and many, many others who consistantly keep Rita in their prayers.
  327. mail
    the bags of letters and packages that are transported by the postal service
    E-MAIL AUTHOR
    [email protected]
  328. tremendously
    extremely
    Being able to elevate the leg while resting and sleeping should help her tremendously.
  329. good afternoon
    a conventional expression of greeting or farewell
    Sunday, March 28, 2010 2:18 PM, CDT
    oops, forgot to sign off ... previous entry by Don Burgner



    Sunday, March 28, 2010 1:34 PM, CDT
    Good afternoon family and friends.
  330. next
    immediately following in time or order
    First
    Previous
    «
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5
    6
    of 19
    »
    Next
    Last

    See All Photos
    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  331. blueberry
    any of numerous shrubs of the genus Vaccinium bearing blueberries
    That means a successful (painless) ride to the BR, only one quick throw-up, and then breakfast of carnation milk with bannas and blueberries blended for a smoothie.
  332. milk
    a white nutritious liquid secreted by mammals and used as food by human beings
    Today Don Weidnecht brought lunch for me whils Rita napped in the recliner but he left cookies made by Susie which Rita ate with milk later in the day.
  333. ice cream
    frozen dessert containing cream and sugar and flavoring
    We had our own Labor day cookout complete with homemade ice cream.
  334. day of rest
    a day set aside for rest
    More later, Don
    Sunday, July 4, 2010 12:32 PM, CDT
    Well it is July 4th again,Debbie's birthday, and we are at home for another quite day of rest for Rita.
  335. cooked
    having been prepared for eating by the application of heat
    Don and Susie Weidknecht cooked out with us on Friday.
  336. washing machine
    a home appliance for washing clothes and linens automatically
    Dishwashers and washing machines are easy with a push of a button and Kroeger shopping is fun too.
  337. log in
    enter a computer
    I might as well put a log in the bed.
  338. tourney
    a sporting competition
    And all this time she kept her eye on The Masters Tourney to see if she could spot David Livingston or Wayne Smith in the crowd who were enjoying our Masters tickets with their friends.
  339. times
    a more or less definite period of time now or previously present
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  340. home
    where you live at a particular time
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  341. boat
    a small vessel for travel on water
    Rita could not eat but she enjoyed the visit.Michele stayed with Rita on Sat. so I could take the boat for a cruise with Don and Susie to Gallatin Marina for lunch.
  342. Vanderbilt
    United States financier who accumulated great wealth from railroad and shipping businesses (1794-1877)
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  343. kitty
    young domestic cat
    This morning Rita woke up at 5AM asking for help and needing to go to BR. So I hop up and find the kitty asleep on her stomach which was creating a little bladder pressure.
  344. later
    happening at a time subsequent to a reference time
    Today Don Weidnecht brought lunch for me whils Rita napped in the recliner but he left cookies made by Susie which Rita ate with milk later in the day.
  345. frisky
    playful like a lively kitten
    At least it will give Simba (aging 15 yr puppy) and Nala (frisky cat) more room on the bed.
  346. discuss
    consider or examine in speech or writing
    Rita wanted to know about his cancer journey and discussed some of her concerns with Yvonn.
  347. Atlanta
    state capital and largest city of Georgia
    Debbie Wilson had gone back to Atlanta.
  348. elevate
    raise from a lower to a higher position
    Being able to elevate the leg while resting and sleeping should help her tremendously.
  349. family
    a group of people related to one another
    Sunday, September 12, 2010 6:39 AM, CDT
    Good morning again to all friends and family.
  350. good and
    completely or thoroughly
    Don



    Sunday, August 29, 2010 7:41 AM, CDT
    It's time for another progress report on Rita's health so I will try to explain her good and not-so-good condition.
  351. in good spirits
    without losing equilibrium
    For just being diagnosed with a not-so-great type of cancer, Rita is in good spirits.
  352. subsiding
    a gradual sinking to a lower level
    The intense pain in her neck and hip do seem to be subsiding on most days.
  353. doctor
    a person who holds Ph.D. degree from an academic institution
    Sincerely, Don
    Tuesday, August 24, 2010 8:43 AM, CDT
    TodayRita goes back to doctor to check blood platelets to see if she is ready for the Tarceva drug treatment.
  354. back
    the posterior part of a human (or animal) body
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  355. working
    a mine or quarry that is being or has been worked
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  356. strength
    the property of being physically or mentally powerful
    Showers take a lot of strength with a seat and handrails but we do get a couple in every week.(Hospice will be able to help with bathing and care if needed) Last evening during the Braves game, she woke up after a nap and said she was hungry... and wanted a pizza!
  357. Wilson
    American Revolutionary leader who was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence (1742-1798)
    Debbie Wilson had gone back to Atlanta.
  358. rerun
    a program that is broadcast again
    Also when I talk too much and she misses something, she can rerun it.
  359. Creek
    any member of the Creek Confederacy (especially the Muskogee) formerly living in Georgia and Alabama but now chiefly in Oklahoma
    Lorna used her time with Rita to study her lines for her role in the up coming Cedar Creek Yacht Club play "Golden Girls" in September.
  360. skip
    jump lightly
    I got another comcast DVR for the bedroom so she can tape shows and skip commercials.
  361. delicious
    extremely pleasing to the sense of taste
    Sue McSweeney brought a delicious cake Sunday and Christa Huesby cooked a mexixcan special that lasted two meals for me.And yesterday Rebecca Ramsey sent a very beautiful flower arrangement.
  362. Bennington
    a town in southwestern Vermont
    And then Rita's cousin from Chattanooga, Lowell Bennington, stopped in for a great "reunion" of family times.
  363. move
    change location
    Debbie came in from Atlanta on Wed nite so she stayed with Rita while I went to the office.I could still remember how to get there and my desk had not been moved, but I wasn't on the work schedule.
  364. trial
    the act of testing something
    Treating lung cancer is a moving target with different applications for different patients with new trials going on every day to discover improved treatment options.
  365. Sept
    the month following August and preceding October
    Let me share a small part of the evening of Rita's pasing on Sept 8 at 8:45 PM. All of us were with her except Debbie who was on the plane scheduled to land at 11PM.
  366. new
    not of long duration
    About 10 PM I moved her to the new "power bed" and went to sleep by her.
  367. adjust
    alter or regulate so as to conform to a standard
    Then our managers at Thrifty, Chris Turner and Ashley Phillips, came for a visit and stayed until the hospice nurse arrived to adjust meds and attend to Rita's needs.
  368. boring
    so lacking in interest as to cause mental weariness
    Enough for now. too much of this could get boring!
  369. illness
    impairment of normal physiological function affecting part or all of an organism
    She is quitely resilient during this and does not dwell on the big picture of this illness.
  370. come over
    communicate the intended meaning or impression
    Michele is the only one in town this week to "party" with so she and Thomas may come over later.
  371. e-mail
    (computer science) a system of world-wide electronic communication in which a computer user can compose a message at one terminal that can be regenerated at the recipient's terminal when the recipient logs in
    E-MAIL AUTHOR
    [email protected]
  372. watermelon
    large oblong or roundish melon with a hard green rind and sweet watery red or occasionally yellowish pulp
    So i gave her an anxiety pill,some watermelon and we watched the Predators and went to bed.
  373. get to
    arrive at the point of
    She got to see Grammy's "new" bed that moves with a "remote"like the TV.

    Tomorrow morning I will be quiter than today since I woke her up cussing my new computer.
  374. office
    place of business where professional duties are performed
    Debbie came in from Atlanta on Wed nite so she stayed with Rita while I went to the office.I could still remember how to get there and my desk had not been moved, but I wasn't on the work schedule.
  375. predator
    any animal that lives by preying on other animals
    So i gave her an anxiety pill,some watermelon and we watched the Predators and went to bed.
  376. ahead
    at or in the front
    Difficult days are ahead but we will make the best of them while we can.
  377. still
    not in physical motion
    They left a beautiful silk rose which I still have proped on her pillow beside me.(And
  378. node
    any thickened enlargement
    It has spread throughout her body and into her lymph nodes.
  379. tasty
    pleasing to the palate
    Lunch was tasty beefroni with cheese and milk.
  380. rest
    take a short break from one's activities in order to relax
    Of course I had the "duty" to eat the rest of it.(
  381. really
    in actual fact
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  382. planned
    planned in advance
    Rita is open to visits if planned so as not to tire or stress her.
  383. cheese
    a solid food prepared from the pressed curd of milk
    She has enjoyed scrambled eggs with cheese this week with soft toast and jam yesterday.
  384. continuing
    remaining in force or being carried on without letup
    She is continuing to get weaker.
  385. start
    take the first step or steps in carrying out an action
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  386. get well
    improve in health
    I guess I know who will be docking the boat when she gets well this summer!
  387. bring
    take something or somebody with oneself somewhere
    But she may surprise us when she brings Elvis to sing with her at her party.
  388. prop
    a support placed beneath or against something to hold it up
    They left a beautiful silk rose which I still have proped on her pillow beside me.(And
  389. deliver
    bring to a destination
    On monday the social service member of Hospice visited and gained info about Rita and made some suggestions for her care, like a bedside potty and oxygen machine which was delivered by 5 PM. The potty is a backup if the driver of the WC can't get there fast enough.
  390. sleep with
    have sexual intercourse with
    She awoke at 5AM today for BR trip and was so weak that I had to almost lift her on and off toilet but she went back to sleep with a shot of morphine for the pain in her tail bone.
  391. appreciate
    be fully aware of; realize fully
    The many cards that Rita continues to recieve are appreciated and fun to read.
  392. complete
    having all necessary qualities
    We had our own Labor day cookout complete with homemade ice cream.
  393. journey
    the act of traveling from one place to another
    Rita wanted to know about his cancer journey and discussed some of her concerns with Yvonn.
  394. special
    adapted to or reserved for a particular purpose
    All the "kids" are doing some special part to remember their mother.
  395. social service
    an organized activity to improve the condition of disadvantaged people in society
    On monday the social service member of Hospice visited and gained info about Rita and made some suggestions for her care, like a bedside potty and oxygen machine which was delivered by 5 PM. The potty is a backup if the driver of the WC can't get there fast enough.
  396. loft
    a large unpartitioned space over a commercial space
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  397. soup
    liquid food especially of meat or fish or vegetable stock often containing pieces of solid food
    Christa brought Taco soup back for Rita which she enjoyed.
  398. trusty
    worthy of trust or belief
    To start with Rita was a litle short on pain med at that hour so I used my trusty travel pack of morphine!
  399. positive
    characterized by or displaying affirmation or acceptance
    Since I always try to have a positive answer even when I have no clue to solutions, she is beginning to think of me as "Dr. Quack" .I
  400. getting
    the act of acquiring something
    The difficulty is getting her back in bed in the same comfortable position.
  401. giver
    someone who devotes himself completely
    One of the benifits of care-giver).
  402. weight
    the vertical force exerted by a mass as a result of gravity
    Shis is still very weak and can not eat enough to keep weight up.
  403. chef
    a professional cook
    I feel like a chef with all the delicious heat and serve meals delivered.
  404. Elizabeth
    daughter of George VI who became the Queen of England and Northern Ireland in 1952 on the death of her father (1926–2022))
    Debbie is with David,Elizabeth and Larkin picking up tar balls on the beach and swimming in the pool.
  405. challenging
    requiring full use of your abilities or resources
    Rita and I both are proud of this Thrifty team and sincerely thank al of you for your dedication and commitment to helping us get through these challenging times.
  406. want
    the state of needing something that is absent or unavailable
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  407. painless
    not causing physical or psychological pain
    That means a successful (painless) ride to the BR, only one quick throw-up, and then breakfast of carnation milk with bannas and blueberries blended for a smoothie.
  408. Morris
    United States statesman who led the committee that produced the final draft of the United States Constitution (1752-1816)
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  409. ready
    completely prepared or in condition for immediate action or use or progress
    Yes, shs very fatigued but when Ester rolled her into the room she was "Mary Kay" fresh and ready for visitors.
  410. planning
    an act of formulating a program for a course of action
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  411. puppy
    a young dog
    At least it will give Simba (aging 15 yr puppy) and Nala (frisky cat) more room on the bed.
  412. waking
    marked by full consciousness or alertness
    She is waking up and calling.
  413. transfusion
    the introduction of blood or plasma into a vein or artery
    The good news is that the "poison" is workin even as it kills good cells as well as the bad ones since she needed a transfusion.
  414. immobile
    not capable of movement or of being moved
    This means there must be some improvement in the pelvick fracture which has made her immobile.
  415. pillow
    a cushion to support the head of a sleeping person
    They left a beautiful silk rose which I still have proped on her pillow beside me.(And
  416. website
    a set of pages on the internet organized as a single unit
    First
    Previous
    «
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5
    6
    of 19
    »
    Next
    Last

    See All Photos
    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  417. stabilize
    support and make steadfast
    Weight has stabilized for now.
  418. messy
    dirty and disorderly
    Such as sliding pills down with applesauce and using a "shot" glass to gulp cough syrup instead of a messy spoon.
  419. on and off
    not regularly
    She awoke at 5AM today for BR trip and was so weak that I had to almost lift her on and off toilet but she went back to sleep with a shot of morphine for the pain in her tail bone.
  420. remote
    located far away spatially
    She got to see Grammy's "new" bed that moves with a "remote"like the TV.

    Tomorrow morning I will be quiter than today since I woke her up cussing my new computer.
  421. bad
    having undesirable or negative qualities
    Wed all day her breathing and awareness changed for the worse so I kept a close watch on her with morphine doeses frequently.
  422. boiled egg
    egg cooked briefly in the shell in gently boiling water
    She watched TV till bedtime and I made a hard boiled egg sandwich for for dinner.
  423. hurdles
    a footrace in which contestants must negotiate a series of hurdles
    She sleeps well at night and so do I!

    To make movement easier in the house with the new (FBWC) Fancy black wheel chair, now nick named "The Truck", I removed the hospital bed and changed her side to be closest to the BR and have room to park it without navigating so many hurdles.
  424. humans
    all of the living human inhabitants of the earth
    Debbie said Rev Becka Humans came by to see Rita but she was asleep then too.
  425. intake
    an opening through which fluid is admitted to a tube
    Her goal now is to increase calorie intake by eating more and taking supplements like boost or Insure.
  426. tired
    depleted of strength or energy
    It was a great day but she was tired.
  427. details
    true confidential information
    The last journal note gave details on those events.
  428. car
    a motor vehicle with four wheels
    We keep a bucket at bed and recliner and in the car.
  429. needs
    in such a manner as could not be otherwise
    I must go now to attend to her needs.
  430. chrome
    another word for chromium when used in dyes or pigments
    Today, Monday, Rita stayed in bed to noon and managed a shower before we made our first trip to Dr Cato in our brand new Drive Delux (fancy black wheel chair) with chrome wheel pullers and adjustable "wheelee" wheels and foot rests.
  431. improvement
    the act of making something better
    This improvement began last Friday, the day of her last chemo.
  432. recover
    regain or make up for
    At least she can recover from the treatments and enjoy eating again.
  433. take
    get into one's hands
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  434. many
    a large number of the persons or things being discussed
    And yes she would be surprised at the at the many people who have expressed in cards and journal notes how she had influenced their lives.
  435. miss
    fail to perceive or to catch with the senses or the mind
    Don't miss it !
  436. Masters
    United States poet (1869-1950)
    And all this time she kept her eye on The Masters Tourney to see if she could spot David Livingston or Wayne Smith in the crowd who were enjoying our Masters tickets with their friends.
  437. site
    the piece of land on which something is located
    Sorry for the late update on Rita's progress but as you were advised on this site,my father, Everett Burgner, passed away last Saturday,June 12, after a brief illness and stay at St Thomas hospital in Nashville.
  438. assist
    give help; be of service
    The hospice nurse was here Tues. afternoon and assisted me with med adjustments and comfort suggestions.
  439. noodle
    a ribbonlike strip of pasta
    She can stay by herself for a few hours as long as I am back to prepare delicious meals.She loves my pasta dishes with noodles, meat sauce with cheese....
  440. begin
    set in motion, cause to start
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  441. culprit
    someone or something responsible for harm or wrongdoing
    It appears that whatever it is has developed since the last scan, so hopefully another will help reveal the culprit.
  442. fan
    a device for creating a current of air by movement
    I give her "fan club" mail to her every day and we both thank you for thinking of us.
  443. complicate
    make less simple
    And e mails are just too complicated.
  444. too
    to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits
    Debbie said Rev Becka Humans came by to see Rita but she was asleep then too.
  445. bob
    move up and down repeatedly
    Harold and Nancy, Bob and Christa, Ron and Karen, Dennis and Becky, Dick and Juliet, Bill and Donna, Varralo's, and many,many other friends and family who have continually been there for us.
  446. for short
    as an abbreviation
    For short bed to chair runs, the 'sport model works best and she gets excercise.
  447. slip by
    pass by
    Nothing really slips by her no matter how bad or weak she feels!
  448. donation
    a voluntary gift made to some worthwhile cause
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    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  449. sissy
    a timid man or boy considered childish or unassertive
    Rita says this cancer stuff ain't for sissies as many of you already know.
  450. July 4
    a legal holiday in the United States
    More later, Don
    Sunday, July 4, 2010 12:32 PM, CDT
    Well it is July 4th again,Debbie's birthday, and we are at home for another quite day of rest for Rita.
  451. well
    in a good or satisfactory manner or to a high standard
    We are all doing well.
  452. improved
    become or made better in quality
    A nurse came to our home immediately and evaluated her condition and changed some meds and ordered an improved comfort mattress pad and anything else needed.
  453. keeping
    the act of retaining something
    Thanks for keeping up with us.
  454. donna
    an Italian woman of rank
    Harold and Nancy, Bob and Christa, Ron and Karen, Dennis and Becky, Dick and Juliet, Bill and Donna, Varralo's, and many,many other friends and family who have continually been there for us.
  455. pizza
    Italian open pie made of thin bread dough spread with a spiced mixture of e.g. tomato sauce and cheese
    Showers take a lot of strength with a seat and handrails but we do get a couple in every week.(Hospice will be able to help with bathing and care if needed) Last evening during the Braves game, she woke up after a nap and said she was hungry... and wanted a pizza!
  456. breathing
    the bodily process of inhalation and exhalation
    The sad news is that Rita passed away at 8:45 PM last nite after a difficult breathing day.
  457. coma
    a state of deep and often prolonged unconsciousness
    Yesterday, (Friday) I stayed home with Debbie to care for Rita but she did not wake up until 1:30 PM! I really thought she was in a coma, but the hospice nurse came in at 2PM and she was OK...sort of.
  458. reeve
    pass a rope through
    And my "assistant care givers" Gayle Livingston and Charlott Reeves, for spending days with Rita so I can catch up on oyher things.
  459. at a time
    simultaneously
    With proper preparation with pills laid out and a cold water supply, she can be alone for two to three hours at a time.
  460. hamburger
    a sandwich consisting of a fried cake of minced beef served on a bun, often with other ingredients
    On Friday afternoon she called me and asked if I thought it would be OK to eat a WENDY's hamburger.
  461. like
    having the same or similar characteristics
    It's like we are all preparing a big "surprise" party for Rita's 65th birthday in December.
  462. just
    and nothing more
    Just as well!
  463. Lind
    Swedish soprano who toured the United States under the management of P. T. Barnum (1820-1887)
    It started with the bla's (not feling good but not hurting) ad ended with a fun visit from Alex and Kathy Stillwell and Charlie and Carolyn Lind.
  464. some
    quantifier
    All the "kids" are doing some special part to remember their mother.
  465. blog
    an online journal where people post about their experiences
    Or is this called BLOGGING?
  466. get in
    to come or go into
    Now a shower takes a lot of energy to get in and back to the WC, but Rita insists on "sink" time afterwards.
  467. entourage
    the group following and attending to some important person
    But lucky for us all, she has an entourage of family and friends ready to fight along side of her

  468. eliminate
    end, take out, or do away with
    The scan revealed that the cancer has spread to the region of her brain, thus eliminating her from the clinical trial that was to begin today.
  469. limited
    subject to restrictions or constraints
    Time is limited for Rita so we are preparing for end of life, however not easy.
  470. May 1
    observed in many countries to celebrate the coming of spring
    Don



    Saturday, May 1, 2010 2:02 PM, CDT
    Here is another quick upate to "Rita Fans".
  471. go to
    be present at (meetings, church services, university), etc.
    After Friday's visit with cousins when she went to the recliner in the living room, she has not been out of the bed.
  472. thankful
    feeling or showing gratitude
    Tell them about CaringBridge
    They will be so thankful.
  473. hie
    move fast
    His very firm written and verbal instructions to donate hie body to Meharry Medical School were also honored.
  474. May
    the month following April and preceding June
    May his soul rest in peace.
  475. counting
    the act of counting; reciting numbers in ascending order
    Calorie counting and eating are each day's challenge with a goal of at least 1500 a day.
  476. objective
    the goal intended to be attained
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  477. mid
    used in combination to denote the middle
    Don


    Thursday, August 5, 2010 8:00 AM, CDT
    It's mid-week now and Rita woke up at 6AM today wanting me to clean the kitty's hairball that got spit up in front of her bedside.
  478. homemade
    made or produced in the home or by yourself
    We had our own Labor day cookout complete with homemade ice cream.
  479. potato
    an edible tuber native to South America
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  480. someday
    some unspecified time in the future
    She hopes to desire food again and to enjoy a meal someday.
  481. do work
    be employed
    She fights nausea daily with meds that do work but it is an effort.
  482. determine
    find out or learn with certainty, as by making an inquiry
    When she recovers from treatments, we may travel....how and where to be determined.
  483. call
    utter a sudden loud cry
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  484. comfortable
    providing or experiencing physical well-being or relief
    An emotional time but we were all glad Rita was comfortable and at peace.
  485. lymph
    a thin coagulable fluid (similar to plasma but) containing white blood cells (lymphocytes) and chyle; is conveyed to the blood stream by lymphatic vessels
    It has spread throughout her body and into her lymph nodes.
  486. errand
    a short trip taken in the performance of a necessary task
    Monday started off with Christa Huseby coming to stay with Rita for me to do errands, but Christa did the errands while I waited for Rita to wake up and wait for the hospice visit.
  487. causing
    the act of causing something to happen
    Wednesday, April 7, 2010 1:54 PM, CDT
    Rita will return to the doctor again tomorrow for another scan to see exactly what is causing the pain in her hip and leg.
  488. too much
    more than necessary
    Enough for now. too much of this could get boring!
  489. anyway
    in any way whatsoever
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  490. physical
    involving the body as distinguished from the mind or spirit
    She read the paper and laid down to finish her morning nap...to about 10am so she can get up for physical thearpy at 11.
  491. trip
    miss a step and fall or nearly fall
    She awoke at 5AM today for BR trip and was so weak that I had to almost lift her on and off toilet but she went back to sleep with a shot of morphine for the pain in her tail bone.
  492. computer
    a machine for performing calculations automatically
    She got to see Grammy's "new" bed that moves with a "remote"like the TV.

    Tomorrow morning I will be quiter than today since I woke her up cussing my new computer.
  493. clock in
    register one's arrival at work
    And it's only 7:40 AM and I don't clock in til 8 AM. I want tell her or charge for the "overtime".
  494. time of day
    clock time
    Sort of, depending on the time of day and if the nausea meds are working.
  495. thank you
    a conversational expression of gratitude
    I give her "fan club" mail to her every day and we both thank you for thinking of us.
  496. caretaker
    a custodian who is hired to manage something or someone
    I'll have to say, Rita could ask for no better caretaker than Don. He's as precise about documenting medication and making sure the right amount of crushed ice is in the cup as he is about parking cars and boats.
  497. turnout
    attendance for a particular event or purpose
    ( BIg turnout and fun event!
  498. left over
    not used up
    Ron cooked up a great pasta and sauce for Sat nite wiyh enough left over for me this week.
  499. thankfully
    in a thankful manner; with thanks
    Thankfully, she's gotten the rhythm of the pain medication and nausea medication under control.
  500. counseling
    something that provides direction or advice
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  501. venue
    the scene of any event or action
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  502. pajama
    loose-fitting nightclothes worn for sleeping or lounging
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  503. agitate
    move or cause to move back and forth
    Movement and too much "chatter" around her makes her agitated and brings on coughing, which can bring on the "throw-ups", which she hates.
  504. life expectancy
    an expected time to live as calculated on the basis of statistical probabilities
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  505. Johnny
    `Johnny' was applied as a nickname for Confederate soldiers by the Federal soldiers in the American Civil War; `greyback' derived from their grey Confederate uniforms
    Also Johnny and Sally Chilton came too so we had a good time that day.We have traveled and partied with these folks many times so there was a lot to remember.
  506. carnation
    Eurasian plant with pink to purple-red spice-scented usually double flowers; widely cultivated in many varieties and many colors
    That means a successful (painless) ride to the BR, only one quick throw-up, and then breakfast of carnation milk with bannas and blueberries blended for a smoothie.
  507. walk
    use one's feet to advance; advance by steps
    She does walk to BR now and even took a shower while I was gone .
  508. taped
    recorded on tape
    But the walk and ride took it's toll on Rita's energy and pain tolerance so we used the handy morphine kit and came home and put on two new 3 day pain patches and she slept till 8:30 PM! Yes, she slept through the first hour of "Dancing With The Stars" but it is ALWAYS taped so she can watch it later.
  509. over
    beyond the top or upper surface or edge
    The good news is that the weather was beautiful over the Labor Day weekend and all of our kids (adults over 40) were here to visit with Rita.
  510. gone
    no longer retained
    Debbie Wilson had gone back to Atlanta.
  511. pass away
    pass from physical life and lose all bodily attributes and functions necessary to sustain life
    The sad news is that Rita passed away at 8:45 PM last nite after a difficult breathing day.
  512. drug
    a substance that is used as a medicine or narcotic
    The tarceva drug was put on hold last Tuesday because Rita was just to weak to begin another chemo round.
  513. roll
    move by turning over or rotating
    Yes, shs very fatigued but when Ester rolled her into the room she was "Mary Kay" fresh and ready for visitors.
  514. work day
    a day on which work is done
    Friday is blood work day at Dr Cato's so there is an agenda most every day,

    Tonite Rita enjoyed fresh tomatoes, onion, and a small red potatoe and milk.
  515. a lot
    to a very great degree or extent
    Three days of wine and beer bottles along with meals for 10 or more creates a lot of trash.
  516. frustrate
    hinder or prevent, as an effort, plan, or desire
    She is frustrated and irratated with little things and does not know why a good "feel good day" has to be followed by several "not so good" days.
  517. leave
    go away from a place
    They left a beautiful silk rose which I still have proped on her pillow beside me.(And
  518. reveal
    make visible
    The scan revealed that the cancer has spread to the region of her brain, thus eliminating her from the clinical trial that was to begin today.
  519. tape
    a long thin piece of cloth or paper as used for binding or fastening
    Gosh, I hope we don't miss "The View", but we can tape it.
  520. see
    perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  521. outstanding
    of major significance or importance
    With Chris Turner doing an outstanding job as City manager with fleet and rate management along with Ashley Phillips who manages and schedules all rental staff, Thrifty is able to function without me or Rita!
  522. changed
    made or become different in nature or form
    Daughters Debra Smith and Michele Burgner changed her bed and clothes that nite.
  523. detail
    a small part considered separately from the whole
    The last journal note gave details on those events.
  524. effect
    a phenomenon that is caused by some previous phenomenon
    Actually she is taking Megestrol daily to enhance appetite which should take effect in 5 to 7 days.
  525. while
    a period of indeterminate length marked by some action
    Debbie came in from Atlanta on Wed nite so she stayed with Rita while I went to the office.I could still remember how to get there and my desk had not been moved, but I wasn't on the work schedule.
  526. adjusted
    altered to accommodate to certain requirements
    Going to the BR means we have to get adjusted again on return to bed or recliner with pillows and position.
  527. sitter
    an organism (person or animal) that sits
    I do leave her alone for 2 tp 4 hrs and she can manage OK. She does not like being an "invalid" and having a "sitter"watch her sleep as she describes it.
  528. check in
    announce one's arrival, e.g. at hotels or airports
    Long enougn for store runs and a check in at the office.
  529. answer
    a statement made to reply to a question or criticism
    She will answer if she feels like it.
  530. check
    examine to determine accuracy or quality
    But we all had a good time and Rita was in sight so we could check on her consistently.
  531. adjustment
    the act of making something different
    The hospice nurse was here Tues. afternoon and assisted me with med adjustments and comfort suggestions.
  532. go in
    to come or go into
    I found her making it go in the hall.
  533. birthday
    the date on which a person was born
    It's like we are all preparing a big "surprise" party for Rita's 65th birthday in December.
  534. cooky
    any of various small flat sweet cakes
    Today Don Weidnecht brought lunch for me whils Rita napped in the recliner but he left cookies made by Susie which Rita ate with milk later in the day.
  535. hour
    a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  536. about
    (of quantities) imprecise but fairly close to correct
    Mary Jane and Jim Hagar saw her briefly about 5PM with no response.
  537. sick
    affected by impairment of normal physical or mental function
    On Thursday she felt sick again and no appetite since the chemo was in her system again.
  538. make
    perform or carry out
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    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  539. overtime
    work done in addition to regular working hours
    And it's only 7:40 AM and I don't clock in til 8 AM. I want tell her or charge for the "overtime".
  540. prop up
    support by placing against something solid or rigid
    Rita enjoyed the day proped up in my big recliner in the middle of it all.
  541. hello
    an expression of greeting
    She has had a few visitors and she recognized them and responded with a weak hello.
  542. appointment
    a meeting arranged in advance
    To make Rita sleep better, Dr Penley ordered a special bed to ease her pain in the hip while it heals and thew in a wheel chair so I could get her to appointments easier, and on time!
  543. hazel
    Australian tree grown especially for ornament and its fine-grained wood and bearing edible nuts
    Hazel Hughes, her Mary Kay consultant for 20 years, came by and told her how beautiful she looked and she was right!
  544. normally
    under normal conditions
    Rita and I had an interesting day today.Rita had an MRI scheduled at 7.30 this morning and we normally are never anywhere at that early hour.. except when I have a CEO meeting.
  545. work on
    to exert effort in order to do, make, or perform something
    Until then we will work on getting stronger to plan for some "feel good" times.
  546. at least
    not less than
    At least it will give Simba (aging 15 yr puppy) and Nala (frisky cat) more room on the bed.
  547. navigate
    direct carefully and safely
    She sleeps well at night and so do I!

    To make movement easier in the house with the new (FBWC) Fancy black wheel chair, now nick named "The Truck", I removed the hospital bed and changed her side to be closest to the BR and have room to park it without navigating so many hurdles.
  548. come
    move toward, travel toward
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  549. few
    a small number of the persons or things being discussed
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  550. addition
    the arithmetic operation of summing
    It is probably time to consider comfort treatments in addition to chemo to improve life quality.
  551. 3rd
    coming next after the second and just before the fourth in position
    The 3rd chemo was last Friday and Dr. Penley said it "looked like" she was improving.
  552. consolidate
    form into a solid mass or whole
    During this time this team has consolidated the brentwood store into the Briley Parkway location for cost savings and efficiency and moved the entire airport counter into a new and larger area.
  553. pickup
    the act or process of picking up or collecting from various places
    I dont't won't to miss the garbage pickup today because cans are full!
  554. water supply
    a facility that provides a source of water
    With proper preparation with pills laid out and a cold water supply, she can be alone for two to three hours at a time.
  555. difficult
    requiring great physical or mental effort to accomplish
    The sad news is that Rita passed away at 8:45 PM last nite after a difficult breathing day.
  556. a few
    more than one but indefinitely small in number
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  557. arrive
    reach a destination
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  558. needed
    necessary for relief or supply
    A nurse came to our home immediately and evaluated her condition and changed some meds and ordered an improved comfort mattress pad and anything else needed.
  559. June
    the month following May and preceding July
    Don


    Saturday, June 26, 2010 7:54 AM, CDT
    Good morning to all friends following Rita's cancer journey.
  560. continued
    without stop or interruption
    Thanks again to all for continued prayers and support.
  561. shopping
    searching for or buying goods or services
    Boy do I have some shopping to do now!
  562. completed
    successfully completed or brought to an end
    She completed a shower in early afternoon and felt better, but very tired from the effort.
  563. get worse
    deteriorate in health
    The pain she's experiencing in her hips and legs has seemingly gotten worse.
  564. diesel
    an internal-combustion engine that burns heavy oil
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  565. event
    something that happens at a given place and time
    The last journal note gave details on those events.
  566. for a while
    for a short time
    She took a shower without morphine and can sit in the WC for a while.
  567. file
    record in a public office or in a court of law
    It's a diversion from Rita's favorite re runs of "The Closer" and other murder stories from "Cold Case Files".
  568. able
    having the necessary means or skill to do something
    Showers take a lot of strength with a seat and handrails but we do get a couple in every week.(Hospice will be able to help with bathing and care if needed) Last evening during the Braves game, she woke up after a nap and said she was hungry... and wanted a pizza!
  569. blood
    the fluid that is pumped through the body by the heart
    Sincerely, Don
    Tuesday, August 24, 2010 8:43 AM, CDT
    TodayRita goes back to doctor to check blood platelets to see if she is ready for the Tarceva drug treatment.
  570. create
    bring into existence
    Three days of wine and beer bottles along with meals for 10 or more creates a lot of trash.
  571. report
    to give an account or representation of in words
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  572. brief
    of short duration or distance
    So Rita slept most all day Thursday in the living room recliner except for a brief time that evening.
  573. please
    give enjoyment to
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  574. Presbyterian Church
    the Protestant denomination adhering to the views of John Calvin
    Therefore I am skipping that process of his death and proceeding to a memorial and life celebration event to be held in Chattanooga, Saturday, JULY 31, at 3 PM, at Northside Presbyterian Church on Mississippi Ave. Obituary and confirmation of this memorial will follow in later anouncements.
  575. park
    a piece of open land for recreational use in an urban area
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  576. bucket
    a roughly cylindrical vessel that is open at the top
    So Lorna got to "hold the bucket" for a few days until I get home today.
  577. pod
    the vessel that contains the seeds of a plant
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  578. payable
    subject to or requiring payment especially as specified
    Today she was determined to work on the computer and organize the payables due this month but could not get comfortable with the computer in her lap so if she will let me do it, she can "coach" me from the recliner tomorrow.
  579. good part
    a place of especial strength
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  580. go to bed
    prepare for sleep
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  581. toilet
    a plumbing fixture for defecation and urination
    She awoke at 5AM today for BR trip and was so weak that I had to almost lift her on and off toilet but she went back to sleep with a shot of morphine for the pain in her tail bone.
  582. entry
    the act of going in
    Sincerly, Don



    Saturday, May 29, 2010 8:49 AM, CDT
    As a follow up to the last entry just completed, I forgot to mention Chris Wroblesky, Thrifty's station manager at the Briley Parkway office.
  583. baked
    (bread and pastries) cooked by dry heat (as in an oven)
    Soups, small ham sandwichs, and occasional baked beans and potatoe salad work.
  584. Mary
    the mother of Jesus
    Mary Jane and Jim Hagar saw her briefly about 5PM with no response.
  585. brad
    a small nail
    Now this was an interesting visit because Rita asked Yvonn about her son, Brad, who died of lung cancer in 2007 at age 46.
  586. worse
    inferior to another in quality or condition or desirability
    Wed all day her breathing and awareness changed for the worse so I kept a close watch on her with morphine doeses frequently.
  587. 12th
    coming next after the eleventh and just before the thirteenth in position
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  588. tribute
    something given or done as an expression of esteem
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    11,214 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    THIS CARINGBRIDGE WEBSITE SPONSORED BY

    HEALTHCARE FACILITY
    Baptist Hospital
    2000 Church Street
    Nashville, TN 37236
    United States
    615.284.5555
    4 TRIBUTE DONATIONS
    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  589. phone
    electro-acoustic transducer for converting electric signals into sounds; it is held over or inserted into the ear
    Home phone is 615 665 1614 with voice mail on both.
  590. mentality
    a habitual or characteristic attitude of the mind
    That independance and 'do it myself" mentality still comes out.
  591. 21st
    coming next after the twentieth in position
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  592. throw
    propel through the air
    At least she has not thrown up.
  593. nutrition
    the organic process of nourishing or being nourished
    Always a new strategy to add nutrition.
  594. quietness
    a state of peace and quiet
    Sometimes she feels great and welcomes company and other times she'd just rather enjoy quietness and sleep.
  595. retire
    withdraw from active participation
    Now I know what you retired guys do all day!
  596. hurdle
    a light barrier that competitors must leap over in races
    She sleeps well at night and so do I!

    To make movement easier in the house with the new (FBWC) Fancy black wheel chair, now nick named "The Truck", I removed the hospital bed and changed her side to be closest to the BR and have room to park it without navigating so many hurdles.
  597. remember
    recall knowledge; have a recollection
    All the "kids" are doing some special part to remember their mother.
  598. irritate
    cause annoyance in
    Because her throat is irritated from the radiation and the incessant cough that won't seem to go away, talking is beginning to zap what energy the radiation hasn't taken away.
  599. props
    proper respect
    She has consistent pain in her tail bone so it makes it hard to get comortable without a lot of pillow props.
  600. helping
    an individual quantity of food or drink taken as part of a meal
    Rita and I both are proud of this Thrifty team and sincerely thank al of you for your dedication and commitment to helping us get through these challenging times.
  601. watch
    look attentively
    Wed all day her breathing and awareness changed for the worse so I kept a close watch on her with morphine doeses frequently.
  602. liver
    large and complicated reddish-brown glandular organ located in the upper right portion of the abdominal cavity; secretes bile and functions in metabolism of protein and carbohydrate and fat; synthesizes substances involved in the clotting of the blood; synthesizes vitamin A; detoxifies poisonous substances and breaks down worn-out erythrocytes
    Tumor in the lung has decreased or not grown (less coughing noticed) but tumor in the liver has grown or not changed (reason for no appetite).
  603. cobbler
    a person who makes or repairs shoes
    However, last nite she requested some apple cobbler with ice cream and ate it all.
  604. Belmont
    a racetrack for thoroughbred racing in Elmont on Long Island
    He wanted her to come to the father's day event at Belmont Village to hear music he thought she would like but he died on the 12th and Rita was could not have attended anyway.
  605. even
    being level or straight or regular and without variation
    Let me share a small part of the evening of Rita's pasing on Sept 8 at 8:45 PM. All of us were with her except Debbie who was on the plane scheduled to land at 11PM.
  606. bounce
    spring back; spring away from an impact
    If I had written a check for vaults, caskets or funerals it would have bounced in heaven!
  607. cozy
    enjoying or providing comforting warmth and shelter
    It was getting too cozy for the four of us, since one was a cat who is insulted if she has to move and the dog won't wake up.
  608. Hughes
    United States industrialist who was an aviator and a film producer; during the last years of his life he was a total recluse (1905-1976)
    Hazel Hughes, her Mary Kay consultant for 20 years, came by and told her how beautiful she looked and she was right!
  609. summer
    the warmest season of the year
    Since she is not able to be on the boat this summer, I had the bright idea that a MOTOR HOME might work for travel after chemo so she could rest while touring.
  610. Mama
    a name under which Ninkhursag was worshipped
    Now what gal would Rita play if Lorna was "Mama" ?
  611. truck
    an automotive vehicle suitable for hauling
    When Rita need to take a BR break this morning, I got up to push the "truck" and she said "I CAN DO IT MYSELF" in a louder than her"inside voice".
  612. felt
    a fabric made of compressed matted animal fibers
    He felt it might help her be more comfortable.
  613. define
    show the form or outline of
    Prayers have worked for Rita and all of us in many ways that are difficult to define at this time.
  614. medicine
    the profession devoted to alleviating diseases and injuries
    "Dr." Ron this weekend offered several new medicine techniques for Rita.
  615. reduce
    make smaller
    And I reduced pain patch to 50 mg last nite to see if that will manage hip pain well enough ....and so she can remembed how to use TV remote.
  616. sing
    produce tones with the voice
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  617. cup
    a small open container usually used for drinking
    Since I am the "cup is half full" type I want to let everyone know that we are maintaing that level even though the cup continues "to leak".
  618. leak
    enter or escape as through a hole or crack or fissure
    Since I am the "cup is half full" type I want to let everyone know that we are maintaing that level even though the cup continues "to leak".
  619. hallway
    an interior passage or corridor onto which rooms open
    A trip to the BR or hallway walk saps her strength and leaves her out of breath.
  620. soda
    a sweet drink containing carbonated water and flavoring
    So I get the club soda and wipe it up!
  621. limit
    as far as something can go
    Time is limited for Rita so we are preparing for end of life, however not easy.
  622. talk
    use language
    ( Got to go for a minute, Rita called and wants to talk about food !
  623. survivor
    one who lives through affliction
    I have a new appreciation for statements like "after a long battle with cancer" or the relief expressed by "cancer survivors".
  624. fall asleep
    change from a waking to a sleeping state
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  625. favorite
    preferred above all others and treated with partiality
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  626. peaceful
    not disturbed by strife or turmoil or war
    Rita wae not ready to jog the block or lift weights but she enjoyed a rather peaceful day.
  627. journal
    a daily written record of experiences and observations
    The last journal note gave details on those events.
  628. figuring
    problem solving that involves numbers or quantities
    You see, I am figuring out now how to sell this idea to her.
  629. coach
    a vehicle carrying many passengers
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  630. very
    being the exact same one; not any other:
    Yes, shs very fatigued but when Ester rolled her into the room she was "Mary Kay" fresh and ready for visitors.
  631. cuss
    utter obscenities or profanities
    She got to see Grammy's "new" bed that moves with a "remote"like the TV.

    Tomorrow morning I will be quiter than today since I woke her up cussing my new computer.
  632. cater
    give what is desired or needed
    And, Gene and Judy Kirby have ordered a hot catered meal to be sent over when I order it.
  633. know
    be cognizant or aware of a fact or a piece of information
    We know now that Rita can now meet and sing with Elvis!
  634. time out
    a pause from doing something (as work)
    It was the first time out of the slip this year.
  635. send
    cause to go somewhere
    The official obituary will give notice of where to send honorary gifts to Rita's favorite charities.
  636. appreciated
    fully understood or grasped
    The many cards that Rita continues to recieve are appreciated and fun to read.
  637. for anything
    under any circumstances
    Two or three "Boost" drinks with 360 cals each plus two or three very small portion meals are targets but she has no real taste for anything and does not want me to even discuss menue items until she has to eat something.
  638. yes
    an affirmative
    And yes she would be surprised at the at the many people who have expressed in cards and journal notes how she had influenced their lives.
  639. then
    at that time
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  640. cycle
    a periodically repeated sequence of events
    Weight loss was down 5 lbs. last week so hopefully we are at the bottom off this cycle since chemo is over.
  641. more
    greater in size or amount or extent or degree
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  642. brave
    possessing or displaying courage
    The Braves won so the day was complete.
  643. beer
    an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting a cereal with hops
    Three days of wine and beer bottles along with meals for 10 or more creates a lot of trash.
  644. good enough
    adequately good for the circumstances
    I checked on the boat "SENORITA" this week for the first time in 3 months and will get it cleaned up and Direct TV back on in case she feels good enough one day to visit the lake.
  645. sorry
    feeling or expressing regret
    Sorry Mile..I mean MIKE!
  646. hunger
    a physiological need for food
    You see, she is planning now to prepare for physical thearpy by eating early and taking a Boost with her for hunger spells.
  647. early
    at or near the beginning of a period of time or course of events or before the usual or expected time
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  648. give notice
    inform (somebody) of something
    The official obituary will give notice of where to send honorary gifts to Rita's favorite charities.
  649. downhill
    the downward slope of a hill
    This has been a slow downhill battle with Rita's energy,strength and weight loss that must reverse course soon.
  650. beautiful
    pleasing to the senses
    They left a beautiful silk rose which I still have proped on her pillow beside me.(And
  651. good spirit
    a benevolent spirit
    For just being diagnosed with a not-so-great type of cancer, Rita is in good spirits.
  652. issue
    some situation or event that is thought about
    Hopefully Rita will discuss more about life issues that she is concerned about.
  653. big
    above average in size or number or quantity
    It's like we are all preparing a big "surprise" party for Rita's 65th birthday in December.
  654. throat
    the passage to the stomach and lungs
    The suggestion by Ed Womack, anoher cancer survivor, to take zofran nausa in tablet form that disolve in your mouth was a great prayer answered because Rita still cannot swallow pills well because of the radiation burns to her throat.
  655. Labor
    the federal department responsible for promoting the working conditions of wage earners in the United States; created in 1913
    The good news is that the weather was beautiful over the Labor Day weekend and all of our kids (adults over 40) were here to visit with Rita.
  656. target
    a reference point to shoot at
    In 10 days Rita will start taking a daily pill,TARCEVA, which is a targeted drug thearpy used in lung cancer treatment.
  657. matching
    being two identical
    Despite the pain in her leg, she still picked out a matching top and pants to go with her blue stripe walking shoes.
  658. yeast
    a single-celled fungus that reproduces asexually
    So I run to krogers and get 3 ears of corn, boil, and serve with a yeast roll.And she said ,'I want real butter,not that "you cain't beleve it's not stuff'.
  659. least
    the superlative of `little' that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by `the'; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree
    At least it will give Simba (aging 15 yr puppy) and Nala (frisky cat) more room on the bed.
  660. loss
    the act of losing someone or something
    Weight loss was down 5 lbs. last week so hopefully we are at the bottom off this cycle since chemo is over.
  661. funeral
    a ceremony at which a dead person is buried or cremated
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  662. already
    prior to a specified or implied time
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  663. cell
    the basic structural and functional unit of all organisms
    Contact me first on cell 615 202 1264 to plan time.
  664. July
    the month following June and preceding August
    Don
    Thursday, July 22, 2010 7:26 AM, CDT
    Well, here I am again for another mid_week report for Rita before the last chemo treatment tomorrow.
  665. mailed
    wearing protective mail
    Slater of Chattanooga actually e mailed a message on this journal!
  666. request
    express the need or desire for; ask for
    So I requested Dr Penley to authorize Alive Hospice of Nashville to take over Rita's pain and comfort management at this time.
  667. wed
    get married
    Wed all day her breathing and awareness changed for the worse so I kept a close watch on her with morphine doeses frequently.
  668. take effect
    go into effect or become effective or operative
    Actually she is taking Megestrol daily to enhance appetite which should take effect in 5 to 7 days.
  669. guy
    an informal term for a youth or man
    When "The Blues Brothers" arrived (What David called the two body transport guys in dark suites), we were sad but lifted in spirits because ot the music we enjoyed together with Rita.
  670. get through
    succeed in reaching a real or abstract destination after overcoming problems
    Nothing has really changed since the last update except we both agree that as Dr. Penley said in the beginning, "cancer sucks" The 5th chemo will be next friday so Rita continues to hold on to short periods of "feel good" times to get through this process.
  671. consistent
    the same throughout in structure or composition
    She has consistent pain in her tail bone so it makes it hard to get comortable without a lot of pillow props.
  672. tablet
    a small, flat, compressed cake of some substance
    First a nausea tablet that disolves, then "food " like ceral and bananas, beeforni for lunch or cannation milk shakes and last night 4 bites of pork chop and potatoes.
  673. hopeful
    having or manifesting optimism
    Hopeful she will feel better when I get home and Lorna will have survived her stay.
  674. decreased
    made less in size or amount or degree
    Tumor in the lung has decreased or not grown (less coughing noticed) but tumor in the liver has grown or not changed (reason for no appetite).
  675. cookie
    any of various small flat sweet cakes
    Today Don Weidnecht brought lunch for me whils Rita napped in the recliner but he left cookies made by Susie which Rita ate with milk later in the day.
  676. working out
    developing in intricate and painstaking detail
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  677. makeup
    the way in which someone or something is composed
    This means Ester had to hand her the makeup and face creames etc. that completes the process while Rita keeps the oxygen clip in her nose!
  678. corn
    tall annual cereal grass bearing kernels on large ears: widely cultivated in America in many varieties; the principal cereal in Mexico and Central and South America since pre-Columbian times
    Corn on the cobb was good too until the last one came up.
  679. fresh
    recently made, produced, or harvested
    Yes, shs very fatigued but when Ester rolled her into the room she was "Mary Kay" fresh and ready for visitors.
  680. forget
    dismiss from the mind; stop remembering
    Oh I forget to mention that David brought Larkin over after work to bring Rita (Grammy) a picture she drew in school.
  681. dose
    a measured portion of medicine taken at any one time
    She became extremely weak over the weekend that she needed help to get in and out of wheelchair to go to BR. Pain patch was increased to 100 mg but that dose has made her very disoriented(she can not remember what day it is or how to work TV remote).
  682. 5th
    coming next after the fourth and just before the sixth in position
    Rita's 5th chem was Friday and she feels OK. Not great, but OK considering her weakness and very limited energy.
  683. life
    the organic phenomenon that distinguishes living organisms
    And yes she would be surprised at the at the many people who have expressed in cards and journal notes how she had influenced their lives.
  684. More
    English statesman who opposed Henry VIII's divorce from Catherine of Aragon and was imprisoned and beheaded; recalled for his concept of Utopia, the ideal state
    More later.
  685. wow
    impress greatly
    I need to review all Deb's BVI trip pictures from 07 (Wow,3 years ago) and relive the "good ole days".
  686. medical school
    a graduate school offering study leading to a medical degree
    His very firm written and verbal instructions to donate hie body to Meharry Medical School were also honored.
  687. creative
    having the ability or power to invent or make something
    My creative menue selections don't always appeal to her.
  688. don
    a teacher or tutor, especially at Cambridge or Oxford
    Rita is determined to don the pirate ' ware with Grady Devan at a summer party as they both battle the cancer wars.
  689. eat in
    eat at home
    The skillet is getting hot and she wants to eat in 5 minutes!
  690. sauce
    flavorful relish or dressing or topping served as an accompaniment to food
    She can stay by herself for a few hours as long as I am back to prepare delicious meals.She loves my pasta dishes with noodles, meat sauce with cheese....
  691. exactly
    indicating preciseness
    And if I forget, i call Rita and she tells me exactly where it is and asks "why do I need that".
  692. actually
    in fact
    Actually she is taking Megestrol daily to enhance appetite which should take effect in 5 to 7 days.
  693. hope
    the general feeling that some desire will be fulfilled
    Gosh, I hope we don't miss "The View", but we can tape it.
  694. sliced
    used of meat; cut into pieces for serving
    And today she wanted a ham sandwich so I bought some fresh sliced ham and made a small ham and cheese sandwich with milk.
  695. job
    a specific piece of work required to be done as a duty
    Ester, the hospice aid also came in at 2'30 to give Rita a shower and she and Jerry, the hospice nurse, did a great job assisting Rita with her needs.
  696. left
    being or located on or directed toward the side of the body to the west when facing north
    They left a beautiful silk rose which I still have proped on her pillow beside me.(And
  697. pretty
    pleasing by delicacy or grace; not imposing
    Don and Susie Wiednecht and Jim and Lorna Sullins planned to visit Thur. afternoon so she worked on her "feel good" objective all day and did pretty well for their visit which really does her good.
  698. closer
    (comparative of `near' or `close') within a shorter distance
    Highlights of the week are "PEOPLE" magazine on Fridays, THE CLOSER TV series and game shows...and me for errands and necessities.
  699. after
    happening at a time subsequent to a reference time
    The sad news is that Rita passed away at 8:45 PM last nite after a difficult breathing day.
  700. wanted
    desired or wished for or sought
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  701. avenue
    a wide street or thoroughfare
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  702. ago
    gone by; or in the past
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  703. Benton
    United States legislator who opposed the use of paper currency (1782-1858)
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  704. complement
    something added to embellish or make perfect
    This complements the "sedan model ' (wheel chair).
  705. out
    moving or appearing to move away from a place, especially one that is enclosed or hidden
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  706. authorize
    grant permission or clearance for
    So I requested Dr Penley to authorize Alive Hospice of Nashville to take over Rita's pain and comfort management at this time.
  707. magic
    any art that invokes supernatural powers
    Was it the magic chemo stuff on Friday or positive results from the PRAYER WARRIORS?
  708. dime
    a United States coin worth one tenth of a dollar
    You just push the "port" wheel forward and the "starboard" wheel backward and it turns on a dime!
  709. and then
    subsequently or soon afterward
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  710. quick
    moving rapidly and lightly
    Don



    Saturday, May 1, 2010 2:02 PM, CDT
    Here is another quick upate to "Rita Fans".
  711. excite
    act as a stimulant
    First, Sheila Crisp also came over yesterday and brought a turkey casserole for me in addition to her fun, exciting presonality that always lifts Rita's spirits.
  712. at home
    at, to, or toward the place where you reside
    But at home she only wears her "inside" clothes that bag and sag but are what she likes for bed and recliner time.
  713. ware
    articles of the same kind or material
    Rita is determined to don the pirate ' ware with Grady Devan at a summer party as they both battle the cancer wars.
  714. thinner
    a diluting agent
    The doctors are still working on finding a combination of pain medicine, blood thinners, and anti-nausea medicine that work.
  715. sedan
    a closed 2- or 4-door car seating at least 4 people
    This complements the "sedan model ' (wheel chair).
  716. quack
    the sound made by a duck
    Since I always try to have a positive answer even when I have no clue to solutions, she is beginning to think of me as "Dr. Quack" .I
  717. night
    the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside
    She sleeps well most nights with pain meds and zanax.
  718. assume
    take to be the case or to be true
    We assume it is all part of the "cancer curing chemo process" that has to be endured.
  719. travel
    change location
    It's portable so it can travel with me.
  720. vacation
    leisure time away from work devoted to rest or pleasure
    Probably next week when the caterer is back from vacation.
  721. lot
    anything (straws or pebbles etc.) taken or chosen at random
    Three days of wine and beer bottles along with meals for 10 or more creates a lot of trash.
  722. enough
    sufficient for the purpose
    On monday the social service member of Hospice visited and gained info about Rita and made some suggestions for her care, like a bedside potty and oxygen machine which was delivered by 5 PM. The potty is a backup if the driver of the WC can't get there fast enough.
  723. chair
    a seat for one person, with a support for the back
    This complements the "sedan model ' (wheel chair).
  724. get around
    move around; move from place to place
    David spent the afternoon with her and said she was getting around really well.
  725. there
    in or at that place
    Well let me back up a bit to Thursday and start from there...can't remember much farther back than that!
  726. hurting
    a symptom of some physical hurt or disorder
    It started with the bla's (not feling good but not hurting) ad ended with a fun visit from Alex and Kathy Stillwell and Charlie and Carolyn Lind.
  727. cover up
    hide from view or knowledge
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  728. over again
    anew
    Time to start the process over again.
  729. toast
    slices of bread that have been toasted
    She has enjoyed scrambled eggs with cheese this week with soft toast and jam yesterday.
  730. limiting
    restricting the scope or freedom of action
    The goal now is to live better and maybe longer while managing a life-limiting disease.
  731. location
    the act of putting something in a certain place
    Chris has helped get our IT equipment moved to the expanded counter location in the Nashville airport.
  732. awareness
    state of elementary or undifferentiated consciousness
    Wed all day her breathing and awareness changed for the worse so I kept a close watch on her with morphine doeses frequently.
  733. neighbor
    a person who lives near another
    Christa Huseby, for your quick trip to Nashville when Rita was first in the hospital and to Nancy Morris and Wendy Sullivan, my neighbor, for delicious meals.
  734. figure out
    find the solution to or understand the meaning of
    You see, I am figuring out now how to sell this idea to her.
  735. surprise
    come upon or take unawares
    It's like we are all preparing a big "surprise" party for Rita's 65th birthday in December.
  736. randy
    feeling great sexual desire
    Randy and Karen Williams who we have not seen in a few years.
  737. response
    the speech act of continuing a conversational exchange
    Mary Jane and Jim Hagar saw her briefly about 5PM with no response.
  738. definitely
    without question and beyond doubt
    Yes hey are appreciated and definitely keep the cup at least "half full", Don Burgner



    Monday, April 12, 2010 10:49 PM, CDT
    It,s Monday nite and Rita has had a fun and busy two days.
  739. good health
    the state of being vigorous and free from bodily or mental disease
    I suppose everyone that faces these types of things feels the same way, but you should never ever take good health for granted.
  740. load
    weight to be borne or conveyed
    Braves struck out with the bases loaded and lost!......oh..that's not good..I said...You see, some things do get her attention!
  741. appreciation
    understanding of the nature or meaning of something
    I have a new appreciation for statements like "after a long battle with cancer" or the relief expressed by "cancer survivors".
  742. hop
    jump lightly
    This morning Rita woke up at 5AM asking for help and needing to go to BR. So I hop up and find the kitty asleep on her stomach which was creating a little bladder pressure.
  743. count
    determine the number or amount of
    Calorie counting and eating are each day's challenge with a goal of at least 1500 a day.
  744. except
    prevent from being included or considered or accepted
    Let me share a small part of the evening of Rita's pasing on Sept 8 at 8:45 PM. All of us were with her except Debbie who was on the plane scheduled to land at 11PM.
  745. great
    a person who has achieved distinction in some field
    Ester, the hospice aid also came in at 2'30 to give Rita a shower and she and Jerry, the hospice nurse, did a great job assisting Rita with her needs.
  746. much
    great in quantity or degree or extent
    Well let me back up a bit to Thursday and start from there...can't remember much farther back than that!
  747. encouragement
    the act of giving hope or support to someone
    First I want to thank everyone for for the many kind words of encouragement and supportive cards sent to Rita.
  748. anywhere
    at or in or to any place
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  749. Marshall
    United States actor (1914-1998)
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  750. beginning
    the act of starting something
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  751. sag
    droop, sink, or settle
    But at home she only wears her "inside" clothes that bag and sag but are what she likes for bed and recliner time.
  752. timing
    the regulation of occurrence, pace, or coordination to achieve a desired effect (as in music, theater, athletics, mechanics)
    She had a couple of throw-ups friday but today i reviewed the prescription instructions again and changed the timing on one of the nauses pills.
  753. clear out
    empty completely
    The plan is to wait for the radiation to clear out of her body before beginning other treatments.
  754. first
    preceding all others in time or space or degree
    Just call me first so I can plan best times. (615 202 126

    Thanks to all for cards calls and visits.
  755. enhance
    increase
    Actually she is taking Megestrol daily to enhance appetite which should take effect in 5 to 7 days.
  756. spirits
    an alcoholic beverage that is distilled rather than fermented
    When "The Blues Brothers" arrived (What David called the two body transport guys in dark suites), we were sad but lifted in spirits because ot the music we enjoyed together with Rita.
  757. ordered
    having a systematic arrangement
    A nurse came to our home immediately and evaluated her condition and changed some meds and ordered an improved comfort mattress pad and anything else needed.
  758. sadden
    make unhappy
    It saddens us all that he's had to take on this responsibility but he's handling it like he was born to do it.
  759. lake
    a body of (usually fresh) water surrounded by land
    I have my boating magazines and pictures to be ready for the time Rita and I can be back on the lake.
  760. diagnosis
    identifying the nature or cause of some phenomenon
    The official diagnosis is Stage 4 Adenocarcinoma of the Lungs.
  761. expectancy
    an expectation
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  762. trainer
    one who trains other persons or animals
    But he is a great friend and survives and runs a busines on charm and old fashioned BS. Now about those answered prayers(othe than the miracle) Rita managed to eat 3 good meals yesterday and move to the recliner where she visited with Julie Hafner, her personal trainer from the YMCA.
  763. short
    having little length or lacking in length
    Don


    Sunday, August 15, 2010 8:18 AM, CDT
    Here is a short progress report on Rita.
  764. highlight
    an area of brightness in a picture
    Highlights of the week are "PEOPLE" magazine on Fridays, THE CLOSER TV series and game shows...and me for errands and necessities.
  765. emotional
    of or pertaining to feelings
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  766. garbage
    worthless material that is to be disposed of
    I dont't won't to miss the garbage pickup today because cans are full!
  767. bladder
    a distensible membranous sac
    This morning Rita woke up at 5AM asking for help and needing to go to BR. So I hop up and find the kitty asleep on her stomach which was creating a little bladder pressure.
  768. may
    thorny shrub of a small tree having white to scarlet flowers
    But she may surprise us when she brings Elvis to sing with her at her party.
  769. condition
    a mode of being or form of existence of a person or thing
    Well the weather was better news than Rita's condition so hre it is.
  770. pie
    dish baked in pastry-lined pan often with a pastry top
    An hour later she asked if I had her pie ready so I brought another dish and she ate that!
  771. management
    the act of controlling something
    So I requested Dr Penley to authorize Alive Hospice of Nashville to take over Rita's pain and comfort management at this time.
  772. cousin
    the child of your aunt or uncle
    After Friday's visit with cousins when she went to the recliner in the living room, she has not been out of the bed.
  773. every week
    without missing a week
    Showers take a lot of strength with a seat and handrails but we do get a couple in every week.(Hospice will be able to help with bathing and care if needed) Last evening during the Braves game, she woke up after a nap and said she was hungry... and wanted a pizza!
  774. make sure
    make a point of doing something
    But she does like "coaching ' me in the kitchen as a reference to where everything is and to make sure I put thing back in thei place.
  775. mash
    compress with force, out of natural shape or condition
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  776. especially
    to a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  777. bone
    rigid tissue that makes up the skeleton of vertebrates
    She awoke at 5AM today for BR trip and was so weak that I had to almost lift her on and off toilet but she went back to sleep with a shot of morphine for the pain in her tail bone.
  778. meet
    come together
    We know now that Rita can now meet and sing with Elvis!
  779. run
    move fast by using one's feet
    It was a nice break and the boat need a run.
  780. balancing
    getting two things to correspond
    It's definitely a balancing act.
  781. efficient
    being effective without wasting time, effort, or expense
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  782. sleep in
    live in the house where one works
    Also, sleeping in a regular bed is likely not helping the process, so she'll be getting an adjustable medical bed delivered today.
  783. every
    (used of count nouns) each and all of the members of a group considered singly and without exception
    Her breathing rate really increased so I called the hospice nurse out again and morphine was authorized again every 30 minutes.
  784. Johns
    United States artist and proponent of pop art (born in 1930)
    In 30 minutes Pappa Johns had a fresh one at the door and Rita ate a large slice.
  785. roast
    cook with dry heat, usually in an oven
    I am almost done with Christa's pot roast reference in my last notes and it was GOOD Christa.
  786. meeting
    the social act of assembling for some common purpose
    The scan is on Mon, the 16th and meeting with DR Penley is Tues afternoon to see results of chem the last 4 months.
  787. also
    in addition
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  788. Charlotte
    the largest city in North Carolina
    But last week she had a taste for Kentucky Fried Chicken, extra crispy, so off I go to Charlotte Ave in 5 o'clock traffic to get it!
  789. depending on
    determined by conditions or circumstances that follow
    Sort of, depending on the time of day and if the nausea meds are working.
  790. room
    an area within a building enclosed by walls and floor and ceiling
    After Friday's visit with cousins when she went to the recliner in the living room, she has not been out of the bed.
  791. long
    primarily spatial sense
    She enjoys and needs company ( in my opinion) but may be too weak to request visits or enjoy for long.
  792. slice
    a thin flat piece cut off of some object
    In 30 minutes Pappa Johns had a fresh one at the door and Rita ate a large slice.
  793. yacht
    an expensive vessel propelled by sail or power
    Lorna used her time with Rita to study her lines for her role in the up coming Cedar Creek Yacht Club play "Golden Girls" in September.
  794. attend
    be present
    All are welcome to attend any or all of these events.
  795. honorary
    given as an award without the normal duties
    The official obituary will give notice of where to send honorary gifts to Rita's favorite charities.
  796. health
    the general condition of body and mind
    Don



    Sunday, August 29, 2010 7:41 AM, CDT
    It's time for another progress report on Rita's health so I will try to explain her good and not-so-good condition.
  797. care
    providing treatment for or attending to someone or something
    Hospice sent a nurse on Monday to insert a catherter for urination and gave me directions for continuing care.
  798. Rock
    United States gynecologist and devout Catholic who conducted the first clinical trials of the oral contraceptive pill (1890-1984)
    The CEO roundtable members, Cedar creek Club members, Rock Harbor Club members and my Skal group that have offered consistant support.
  799. portable
    easily or conveniently transported
    It's portable so it can travel with me.
  800. distill
    undergo condensation
    Since a distilled water


    attachment had to be installed with a plastic screw, I waited to today for the hospice nurse to put it on.
  801. casket
    box in which a corpse is buried or cremated
    If I had written a check for vaults, caskets or funerals it would have bounced in heaven!
  802. cook
    transform by heating
    Don and Susie Weidknecht cooked out with us on Friday.
  803. tell
    narrate or give a detailed account of
    Hazel Hughes, her Mary Kay consultant for 20 years, came by and told her how beautiful she looked and she was right!
  804. offset
    a compensating equivalent
    She had her 4th chemo treatment and a dose of PROCRIT last friday to produce more red blood cells to offset her anemic condition and to avoid the need for a blood tranfusion.
  805. slow
    not moving quickly; taking a comparatively long time
    Breathing slowed about 8PM and ceased about 8:45 PM. with me, Debra,David, and Michele with her.
  806. both
    equally or alike
    I give her "fan club" mail to her every day and we both thank you for thinking of us.
  807. chop
    cut with a hacking tool
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  808. liquid
    fluid matter having no fixed shape but a fixed volume
    Then Rita takes a jigger of liquid pain med and then a nap, suppplemented by a zanax anxiety pill.
  809. survive
    continue in existence after
    Hopeful she will feel better when I get home and Lorna will have survived her stay.
  810. go back
    return in thought or speech to something
    Debbie Wilson had gone back to Atlanta.
  811. fleet
    group of aircraft operating under the same ownership
    With Chris Turner doing an outstanding job as City manager with fleet and rate management along with Ashley Phillips who manages and schedules all rental staff, Thrifty is able to function without me or Rita!
  812. in for
    certain to get or have
    And then Rita's cousin from Chattanooga, Lowell Bennington, stopped in for a great "reunion" of family times.
  813. weakness
    a flaw
    She could not attend physical thearpy on Tues because of nausea and weakness but another is scheduled today at 11 AM so maybe she will go.
  814. across the country
    extending throughout an entire nation
    Don Burgner
    Sunday, April 18, 2010 7:49 AM, CDT
    Good morning to all of you again.It's another beautiful spring day in Nashville and PRAYERS are being answered from all of the prayer chains across the country fo Rita's comfort and progress.
  815. misery
    a state of ill-being due to affliction or misfortune
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  816. in the meantime
    during the intervening time
    In the meantime.
  817. post
    piece of timber or metal fixed firmly in an upright position
    I will keep you posted on new developments.
  818. financial
    involving fiscal matters
    Another area Rita excells is "coaching" David on financial issues and administrative items at Thrifty since he took over her job there 3 weeks ago.Just being able to answer a question or where to locate a file has been a big help to him.
  819. potential
    existing in possibility
    She will meet with the doctor again next Friday to discuss potential chemotherapy treatments and clinical trials she may be eligible for.
  820. regain
    get or find back; recover the use of
    Anyway when Rita completes this chemo period and regains strength and appetite, we will be able to do things since our business is in such capable hands.
  821. cooler
    a refrigerator for cooling liquids
    Maybe fall when it's cooler.
  822. distil
    undergo condensation
    Since a distilled water


    attachment had to be installed with a plastic screw, I waited to today for the hospice nurse to put it on.
  823. locate
    determine the place of by searching or examining
    Another area Rita excells is "coaching" David on financial issues and administrative items at Thrifty since he took over her job there 3 weeks ago.Just being able to answer a question or where to locate a file has been a big help to him.
  824. instead
    in place of, or as an alternative to
    She had a blood tranfusion a week ago last Friday instead of a chemo treatment which was delayed to this past Tuesday.
  825. vomit
    the reflex act of ejecting the contents of the stomach through the mouth
    So the good news is that her appetite is better (not great) and nausea and vomits have not been a problem for 3 days.
  826. syrup
    a thick sweet sticky liquid
    Such as sliding pills down with applesauce and using a "shot" glass to gulp cough syrup instead of a messy spoon.
  827. gulp
    utter or make a noise, as when swallowing too quickly
    Such as sliding pills down with applesauce and using a "shot" glass to gulp cough syrup instead of a messy spoon.
  828. exciting
    creating or arousing uncontrolled emotion
    First, Sheila Crisp also came over yesterday and brought a turkey casserole for me in addition to her fun, exciting presonality that always lifts Rita's spirits.
  829. anxiously
    with anxiety or apprehension
    Sorry for the lack of details, but I know many were anxiously awaiting an update from yesterday's appointment.
  830. 23rd
    coming next after the twenty-second in position
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  831. Mark
    Apostle and companion of Saint Peter
    My friends Charlie Umbarger and Mark Slater drove over from Chatt. to visit so we went to lunch before driving back to my house to see Rita.
  832. sent
    caused or enabled to go or be conveyed or transmitted
    Hospice sent a nurse on Monday to insert a catherter for urination and gave me directions for continuing care.
  833. interesting
    catching or holding your attention
    Now this was an interesting visit because Rita asked Yvonn about her son, Brad, who died of lung cancer in 2007 at age 46.
  834. type
    a subdivision of a particular kind of thing
    ( NO, CT doest not mean a cancer catscan but CUMBERLAND/ TENNESSEE) for you non boating types.
  835. fast
    acting, moving, or capable of acting or moving quickly
    Life is changing fast for all of us now.
  836. cut to
    move to another scene when filming
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  837. think
    judge or regard; look upon; judge
    Yesterday, (Friday) I stayed home with Debbie to care for Rita but she did not wake up until 1:30 PM! I really thought she was in a coma, but the hospice nurse came in at 2PM and she was OK...sort of.
  838. trash
    worthless material that is to be disposed of
    Three days of wine and beer bottles along with meals for 10 or more creates a lot of trash.
  839. group
    any number of entities (members) considered as a unit
    The CEO roundtable members, Cedar creek Club members, Rock Harbor Club members and my Skal group that have offered consistant support.
  840. before
    at or in the front
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  841. consolidated
    joined together into a whole
    During this time this team has consolidated the brentwood store into the Briley Parkway location for cost savings and efficiency and moved the entire airport counter into a new and larger area.
  842. requested
    asked for
    So I requested Dr Penley to authorize Alive Hospice of Nashville to take over Rita's pain and comfort management at this time.
  843. clean
    free from dirt or impurities
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  844. scramble
    move hurriedly
    She has enjoyed scrambled eggs with cheese this week with soft toast and jam yesterday.
  845. fatigued
    drained of energy or effectiveness
    Yes, shs very fatigued but when Ester rolled her into the room she was "Mary Kay" fresh and ready for visitors.
  846. feeling
    a physical sensation that you experience
    Rita has a very extensive fan club so the Motor home idea will create opportunities to visit friends when she is feeling better.
  847. two weeks
    a period of fourteen consecutive days
    The 6th and last chemo is in two weeks so we hope it has done some good for all this misery Rita has endured.
  848. take over
    seize and take control without authority and possibly with force; take as one's right or possession
    So I requested Dr Penley to authorize Alive Hospice of Nashville to take over Rita's pain and comfort management at this time.
  849. tolerance
    willingness to respect the beliefs or practices of others
    But the walk and ride took it's toll on Rita's energy and pain tolerance so we used the handy morphine kit and came home and put on two new 3 day pain patches and she slept till 8:30 PM! Yes, she slept through the first hour of "Dancing With The Stars" but it is ALWAYS taped so she can watch it later.
  850. jog
    give a slight push to
    Rita wae not ready to jog the block or lift weights but she enjoyed a rather peaceful day.
  851. clean up
    put (things or places) in order
    I checked on the boat "SENORITA" this week for the first time in 3 months and will get it cleaned up and Direct TV back on in case she feels good enough one day to visit the lake.
  852. briefly
    for a short time
    Mary Jane and Jim Hagar saw her briefly about 5PM with no response.
  853. say
    utter aloud
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  854. service
    an act of help or assistance
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  855. team
    a cooperative unit
    With great leadership from the whole Thrifty team in new airport facilites. we are becoming a real car rental company!
  856. breath
    the process of taking in and expelling air during breathing
    A walk across the room is very tiring and leaves her out of breath.
  857. at peace
    dead
    An emotional time but we were all glad Rita was comfortable and at peace.
  858. reduced
    made less in size or amount or degree
    And I reduced pain patch to 50 mg last nite to see if that will manage hip pain well enough ....and so she can remembed how to use TV remote.
  859. two
    the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one
    When "The Blues Brothers" arrived (What David called the two body transport guys in dark suites), we were sad but lifted in spirits because ot the music we enjoyed together with Rita.
  860. take on
    take on titles, offices, duties, responsibilities
    Nausea meds MUST bs taken on schedule to be effective and now stomach cramps were a problem.
  861. machine
    a mechanical or electrical device that transmits energy
    On monday the social service member of Hospice visited and gained info about Rita and made some suggestions for her care, like a bedside potty and oxygen machine which was delivered by 5 PM. The potty is a backup if the driver of the WC can't get there fast enough.
  862. awake
    not in a state of sleep; completely conscious
    The daily meds are ready when she awakes and prepares for afternoon visits.
  863. make it
    succeed in a big way; get to the top
    She has consistent pain in her tail bone so it makes it hard to get comortable without a lot of pillow props.
  864. advise
    give advice to
    Her beauty shines through ,with or without Mary Kay. The Hospice nurse came out again yesterday and noted her rapid decline and advised how to administer meds with changing conditions.
  865. sally
    a military action in which besieged troops burst forth
    Also Johnny and Sally Chilton came too so we had a good time that day.We have traveled and partied with these folks many times so there was a lot to remember.
  866. suggestion
    an idea that is proposed
    The hospice nurse was here Tues. afternoon and assisted me with med adjustments and comfort suggestions.
  867. always
    at all times; all the time and on every occasion
    And the envelopes always addressed to "The Beautiful Mrs Rita" from her very special friend, Hazel Hughes, her Mary Kay consutant.
  868. shuttle
    bobbin that passes the weft thread between the warp threads
    Thanks again for all the cards and calls (to me) And those of you that saw me at thrifty Friday, don't tell her I helped Chris Turner shuttle cars for two hours.
  869. problem
    a question raised for consideration or solution
    So the good news is that her appetite is better (not great) and nausea and vomits have not been a problem for 3 days.
  870. reunion
    the act of coming together again
    And then Rita's cousin from Chattanooga, Lowell Bennington, stopped in for a great "reunion" of family times.
  871. moved
    being excited or provoked to the expression of an emotion
    Debbie came in from Atlanta on Wed nite so she stayed with Rita while I went to the office.I could still remember how to get there and my desk had not been moved, but I wasn't on the work schedule.
  872. small
    limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude
    Let me share a small part of the evening of Rita's pasing on Sept 8 at 8:45 PM. All of us were with her except Debbie who was on the plane scheduled to land at 11PM.
  873. go for
    intend with some possibility of fulfilment
    ( Got to go for a minute, Rita called and wants to talk about food !
  874. come out
    appear or become visible; make a showing
    Her beauty shines through ,with or without Mary Kay. The Hospice nurse came out again yesterday and noted her rapid decline and advised how to administer meds with changing conditions.
  875. be on
    appear in a show, on T.V. or radio
    Let me share a small part of the evening of Rita's pasing on Sept 8 at 8:45 PM. All of us were with her except Debbie who was on the plane scheduled to land at 11PM.
  876. offer
    present for acceptance or rejection
    Becka offered communion and prayer for all of us.
  877. on the way
    on a route to some place
    However she stayed too long and got sick on the way home.
  878. weather
    atmospheric conditions such as temperature and precipitation
    The good news is that the weather was beautiful over the Labor Day weekend and all of our kids (adults over 40) were here to visit with Rita.
  879. agenda
    a list of matters to be taken up, as at a meeting
    Friday is blood work day at Dr Cato's so there is an agenda most every day,

    Tonite Rita enjoyed fresh tomatoes, onion, and a small red potatoe and milk.
  880. cocktail
    an appetizer served as a first course at a meal
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails
  881. mattress
    a large thick pad filled with resilient material and often incorporating coiled springs, used as a bed or part of a bed
    A nurse came to our home immediately and evaluated her condition and changed some meds and ordered an improved comfort mattress pad and anything else needed.
  882. through
    having finished or arrived at completion
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  883. mike
    a device for changing sound waves into electrical energy
    Mike Manous was referred to as "Mile Manous" in the last update.
  884. body
    an individual 3-dimensional object that has mass
    When "The Blues Brothers" arrived (What David called the two body transport guys in dark suites), we were sad but lifted in spirits because ot the music we enjoyed together with Rita.
  885. put on
    put clothing on one's body
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  886. increase
    a process of becoming larger or longer or more numerous
    Her breathing rate really increased so I called the hospice nurse out again and morphine was authorized again every 30 minutes.
  887. taste
    the faculty or act of tasting
    But last week she had a taste for Kentucky Fried Chicken, extra crispy, so off I go to Charlotte Ave in 5 o'clock traffic to get it!
  888. go away
    move away from a place into another direction
    We would all give the world to make this go away and for her to feel better.
  889. cure
    a medicine or therapy that treats disease or relieves pain
    Cures have not been found yet, but different applications offer expended survival time with improved life quality within that time, what ever it is.
  890. manager
    someone who controls resources and expenditures
    Then our managers at Thrifty, Chris Turner and Ashley Phillips, came for a visit and stayed until the hospice nurse arrived to adjust meds and attend to Rita's needs.
  891. developed
    being changed over time, as to be stronger or more complete
    It appears that whatever it is has developed since the last scan, so hopefully another will help reveal the culprit.
  892. pregnancy
    the state of being pregnant
    Tell a Friend About CaringBridge
    Do you know a family facing cancer, pregnancy complications or serious injury?
  893. try
    make an effort or attempt
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  894. party
    an occasion on which people gather to socialize and have fun
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  895. attend to
    get down to; pay attention to; take seriously
    I must go now to attend to her needs.
  896. Night
    Roman goddess of night
    Good Night!
  897. coupled
    joined together especially in a pair or pairs
    The pain in her neck and back was pretty prevalent because of the awkward positions she had to get in for the PET scan coupled with the radiation.
  898. consultant
    an expert who gives advice
    Hazel Hughes, her Mary Kay consultant for 20 years, came by and told her how beautiful she looked and she was right!
  899. hours
    an indefinite period of time
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  900. real
    being or occurring in fact or actuality
    Two or three "Boost" drinks with 360 cals each plus two or three very small portion meals are targets but she has no real taste for anything and does not want me to even discuss menue items until she has to eat something.
  901. gas
    state of matter distinguished from solid and liquid states
    The boat is clean, full of gas and beer, but no food or coffee....yet!
  902. drive back
    force or drive back
    My friends Charlie Umbarger and Mark Slater drove over from Chatt. to visit so we went to lunch before driving back to my house to see Rita.
  903. pet
    a domesticated animal kept for companionship or amusement
    The pet scan is Monday and DR visit on Tuesday to evaluate progress of the chemo.
  904. develop
    progress or evolve through a process of natural growth
    We are developing a new routine to life now and are getting used to it, somewhat.
  905. level
    a relative position or degree of value in a graded group
    In the meantime every day is managed care for comfort and energy level.
  906. pirate
    someone who robs and plunders at sea
    Rita is determined to don the pirate ' ware with Grady Devan at a summer party as they both battle the cancer wars.
  907. loaded
    filled with a great quantity
    Braves struck out with the bases loaded and lost!......oh..that's not good..I said...You see, some things do get her attention!
  908. push
    move with force, "He pushed the table into a corner"
    With a push the kitty reluntatly moved and I helped Rita to the bedside potty.
  909. decrease
    a change downward
    Tumor in the lung has decreased or not grown (less coughing noticed) but tumor in the liver has grown or not changed (reason for no appetite).
  910. around
    in the area or vicinity
    Movement and too much "chatter" around her makes her agitated and brings on coughing, which can bring on the "throw-ups", which she hates.
  911. watering
    wetting with water
    They. brought baloons to sparkle the room (no watering) and delious fruit and soup. (for me mostly) Rita always enjoys visits once she comits to feelind good.
  912. aging
    the organic process of growing older
    At least it will give Simba (aging 15 yr puppy) and Nala (frisky cat) more room on the bed.
  913. evening
    the latter part of the day
    Let me share a small part of the evening of Rita's pasing on Sept 8 at 8:45 PM. All of us were with her except Debbie who was on the plane scheduled to land at 11PM.
  914. position
    the particular part of space occupied by something
    The difficulty is getting her back in bed in the same comfortable position.
  915. select
    pick out or choose from a number of alternatives
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  916. despite
    contemptuous disregard
    Anyway we are still getting along despite my short memory on stuff.
  917. sparkle
    emit or produce sparks
    They. brought baloons to sparkle the room (no watering) and delious fruit and soup. (for me mostly) Rita always enjoys visits once she comits to feelind good.
  918. add
    join or combine or unite with others
    The best tarceva could do would add 2 or 3 months but at what cost to quality of life.
  919. determined
    having been learned or found especially by investigation
    When she recovers from treatments, we may travel....how and where to be determined.
  920. talking
    an exchange of ideas via conversation
    She stills enjoys company when she feels good but talking too much tires her.
  921. sore
    causing misery or pain or distress
    The original hip pain is gone but more are lurking as coughng makes her body sore.
  922. bedroom
    a room used primarily for sleeping
    So now that I have rearranged the bedroom for the new bed and have set the oxygen machine for the nite, it's time for another beer!
  923. medical
    relating to the study or practice of medicine
    His very firm written and verbal instructions to donate hie body to Meharry Medical School were also honored.
  924. boil
    change from a liquid to vapor
    Like, how long does corn need to boil, or does baked potatoes take 30 minutes or longer?
  925. facing
    an ornamental coating to a building
    Tell a Friend About CaringBridge
    Do you know a family facing cancer, pregnancy complications or serious injury?
  926. plus
    on the positive side or higher end of a scale
    Two or three "Boost" drinks with 360 cals each plus two or three very small portion meals are targets but she has no real taste for anything and does not want me to even discuss menue items until she has to eat something.
  927. blended
    combined or mixed together so that the constituent parts are indistinguishable
    That means a successful (painless) ride to the BR, only one quick throw-up, and then breakfast of carnation milk with bannas and blueberries blended for a smoothie.
  928. eats
    informal terms for a meal
    She has no appetite and only eats by necessity of 3 very small meals daily.
  929. lucky
    having or bringing good fortune
    He was one of the lucky ones.
  930. starboard
    right side of a ship or aircraft to someone facing the bow
    You just push the "port" wheel forward and the "starboard" wheel backward and it turns on a dime!
  931. minutes
    a written account of what transpired at a meeting
    Her breathing rate really increased so I called the hospice nurse out again and morphine was authorized again every 30 minutes.
  932. talk about
    to consider or examine in speech or writing
    ( Got to go for a minute, Rita called and wants to talk about food !
  933. immediate
    directly before or after as in a chain of cause and effect
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  934. digital
    relating to or performed with the fingers
    Thanks also to Deb and Jim Varello for the neat digital pcture frame sent this week.
  935. overnight
    during or for the length of one night
    It took 3 months to lose 45 pounds so she cain't gain it back overnight.
  936. story
    a record or narrative description of past events
    Rita told her story and will be assigned to a support group.
  937. back up
    move backwards from a certain position
    Well let me back up a bit to Thursday and start from there...can't remember much farther back than that!
  938. bake
    cook and make edible by putting in a hot oven
    Soups, small ham sandwichs, and occasional baked beans and potatoe salad work.
  939. strike out
    set out on a course of action
    Braves struck out with the bases loaded and lost!......oh..that's not good..I said...You see, some things do get her attention!
  940. Rebecca
    (Old Testament) wife of Isaac and mother of Jacob and Esau
    Sue McSweeney brought a delicious cake Sunday and Christa Huesby cooked a mexixcan special that lasted two meals for me.And yesterday Rebecca Ramsey sent a very beautiful flower arrangement.
  941. chicken
    a domestic bird bred for meat or eggs
    But last week she had a taste for Kentucky Fried Chicken, extra crispy, so off I go to Charlotte Ave in 5 o'clock traffic to get it!
  942. administer
    supervise or be in charge of
    Her beauty shines through ,with or without Mary Kay. The Hospice nurse came out again yesterday and noted her rapid decline and advised how to administer meds with changing conditions.
  943. scrambled
    thrown together in a disorderly fashion
    She has enjoyed scrambled eggs with cheese this week with soft toast and jam yesterday.
  944. eligible
    qualified for or allowed or worthy of being chosen
    She will meet with the doctor again next Friday to discuss potential chemotherapy treatments and clinical trials she may be eligible for.
  945. decline
    grow worse
    Her beauty shines through ,with or without Mary Kay. The Hospice nurse came out again yesterday and noted her rapid decline and advised how to administer meds with changing conditions.
  946. model
    a representation of something, often on a smaller scale
    A friend gave us a "sport model" walker complete with seat and basket.
  947. item
    a distinct part that can be specified separately in a group
    Two or three "Boost" drinks with 360 cals each plus two or three very small portion meals are targets but she has no real taste for anything and does not want me to even discuss menue items until she has to eat something.
  948. Lowell
    United States poet (1874-1925)
    And then Rita's cousin from Chattanooga, Lowell Bennington, stopped in for a great "reunion" of family times.
  949. quality
    an essential and distinguishing attribute of something
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  950. cream
    the part of milk containing the butterfat
    We had our own Labor day cookout complete with homemade ice cream.
  951. sometimes
    on certain occasions or in certain cases but not always
    Nausea is sometimes mistaken for hunger so we have to be prepared.
  952. business
    the principal activity in one's life to earn money
    Thanks again for a great staff at Thrifty that keeps cash flowing and a business growing!
  953. sap
    a watery fluid that circulates in a plant
    A trip to the BR or hallway walk saps her strength and leaves her out of breath.
  954. visitor
    someone who visits
    She has had a few visitors and she recognized them and responded with a weak hello.
  955. advised
    having received information
    Her beauty shines through ,with or without Mary Kay. The Hospice nurse came out again yesterday and noted her rapid decline and advised how to administer meds with changing conditions.
  956. frustrated
    disappointingly unsuccessful
    She is frustrated and irratated with little things and does not know why a good "feel good day" has to be followed by several "not so good" days.
  957. blues
    a state of depression
    When "The Blues Brothers" arrived (What David called the two body transport guys in dark suites), we were sad but lifted in spirits because ot the music we enjoyed together with Rita.
  958. drive in
    cause a run or runner to be scored
    I said, and promptly went thru Wendys drive in and took it to her.
  959. water
    compound that occurs at room temperature as a clear liquid
    I don't have to water it).
  960. said
    being the one previously mentioned or spoken of
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  961. change
    become different in some particular way
    I will try to offer more frequent and brief reports in the future because changes happen fast.
  962. unfortunately
    by bad luck
    The head scan portion from yesterday was not clear, so unfortunately, she had to go in again early this morning for a re-scan.
  963. spread
    distribute or disperse widely
    The scan revealed that the cancer has spread to the region of her brain, thus eliminating her from the clinical trial that was to begin today.
  964. store
    a mercantile establishment for the sale of goods or services
    Long enougn for store runs and a check in at the office.
  965. things
    any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)
    So I think things may improve soon but Rita may need some home health assistance at some point..
  966. stomach
    enlarged and muscular saclike organ of the alimentary canal
    This morning Rita woke up at 5AM asking for help and needing to go to BR. So I hop up and find the kitty asleep on her stomach which was creating a little bladder pressure.
  967. used
    previously owned by another
    Tarceva can be used at a later time if her health will allow it.
  968. welcome
    the state of being received with pleasure
    All are welcome to attend any or all of these events.
  969. kidney
    either of two bean-shaped excretory organs that filter wastes (especially urea) from the blood and excrete them and water in urine
    The cancer appears to have already spread to her liver, kidneys and bones.
  970. live
    have life, be alive
    After Friday's visit with cousins when she went to the recliner in the living room, she has not been out of the bed.
  971. deserts
    an outcome (good or bad) that is well merited
    Lorna all brought plenty of food and deserts for me!
  972. prevalent
    most frequent or common
    The pain in her neck and back was pretty prevalent because of the awkward positions she had to get in for the PET scan coupled with the radiation.
  973. drive
    operate or control a vehicle
    My friends Charlie Umbarger and Mark Slater drove over from Chatt. to visit so we went to lunch before driving back to my house to see Rita.
  974. lift
    raise from a lower to a higher position
    When "The Blues Brothers" arrived (What David called the two body transport guys in dark suites), we were sad but lifted in spirits because ot the music we enjoyed together with Rita.
  975. sliding
    being a smooth continuous motion
    Such as sliding pills down with applesauce and using a "shot" glass to gulp cough syrup instead of a messy spoon.
  976. honor
    a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction
    An unusual way to honor Rita's passing moments, but she was smiling!
  977. dedication
    complete and wholehearted fidelity
    Rita and I both are proud of this Thrifty team and sincerely thank al of you for your dedication and commitment to helping us get through these challenging times.
  978. behalf
    as the agent of or on someone's part
    Don
    Saturday, June 12, 2010 3:38 PM, CDT
    A post today by Elizabeth on behalf of Don:

    Everett Burgner, Don's father, passed away early this morning.
  979. rough
    having or caused by an irregular surface
    This is rough, no doubt.
  980. traffic
    vehicles or pedestrians traveling in a particular locality
    But last week she had a taste for Kentucky Fried Chicken, extra crispy, so off I go to Charlotte Ave in 5 o'clock traffic to get it!
  981. fried
    cooked by frying in fat
    But last week she had a taste for Kentucky Fried Chicken, extra crispy, so off I go to Charlotte Ave in 5 o'clock traffic to get it!
  982. side
    a place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location
    Saturday, June 5, 2010 8:43 AM, CDT
    Another week has passed and Rita is still managing side effects of chemo treatments.
  983. bowel
    the part of the alimentary canal between the stomach and the anus
    She forgot that she already had one bowel.
  984. follow up
    increase the effectiveness or success of by further action
    Sincerly, Don



    Saturday, May 29, 2010 8:49 AM, CDT
    As a follow up to the last entry just completed, I forgot to mention Chris Wroblesky, Thrifty's station manager at the Briley Parkway office.
  985. endure
    undergo or be subjected to
    The 6th and last chemo is in two weeks so we hope it has done some good for all this misery Rita has endured.
  986. consistently
    in a systematic or steady manner
    But we all had a good time and Rita was in sight so we could check on her consistently.
  987. pains
    an effortful attempt to attain a goal
    The morphine and pain patch help her sleep and keep pains down that are increasing daily.
  988. only
    without any others being included or involved
    Don



    Wednesday, September 8, 2010 7:35 AM, CDT
    It's Wed. morning, Sept. 8th, and it seems like ages ago since my notes of Sat, Sept. 4th, only 4 days.
  989. pants
    a garment extending from the waist to the knee or ankle
    Despite the pain in her leg, she still picked out a matching top and pants to go with her blue stripe walking shoes.
  990. counter
    a calculator recording the number of times something happens
    Chris has helped get our IT equipment moved to the expanded counter location in the Nashville airport.
  991. note
    a brief written record
    The last journal note gave details on those events.
  992. Here
    queen of the Olympian gods in ancient Greek mythology
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  993. minute
    a unit of time equal to 60 seconds or 1/60th of an hour
    Her breathing rate really increased so I called the hospice nurse out again and morphine was authorized again every 30 minutes.
  994. downtown
    the central area or commercial center of a town or city
    Debra is working today to p[repare for Nashville's big CVB event downtown for the 4th celebration.
  995. month
    one of the twelve divisions of the calendar year
    The best tarceva could do would add 2 or 3 months but at what cost to quality of life.
  996. consume
    take in as food
    Beyond the calorie goals, the persistant cough makes her sore and consumes energy.
  997. banana
    a treelike herb bearing hanging clusters of elongated fruits
    First a nausea tablet that disolves, then "food " like ceral and bananas, beeforni for lunch or cannation milk shakes and last night 4 bites of pork chop and potatoes.
  998. spelling
    forming words with letters according to the principles underlying accepted usage
    I will try to watch my spelling this time.
  999. running
    the act of running; traveling on foot at a fast pace
    My only comparasion is a bad case of the flew when both ends are running and you feel like sh...!
  1000. Green
    an environmentalist who belongs to the Green Party
    On Monday she started physical thearpy at Star in Green Hills and has another session tomorrow.
  1001. drink
    take in liquids
    Since Everett didn't believe in burials or funerals, I spent the money on music,food, and drink)

    Rita was one of Everett's favorite people and they did not get to visit in his last days, but he knew the situation.
  1002. staff
    a strong rod or stick with a specialized utilitarian purpose
    Thanks again for a great staff at Thrifty that keeps cash flowing and a business growing!
  1003. dance
    taking a series of rhythmical steps in time to music
    And yes, she did watch "Dancing With The Stars" last night in the LR because we do not have a DVR on the BR TV.

    And ,before forget, let me thank my roundtable group for sending Jim Hunt over last night with a beef tenderloin feast!
  1004. cramp
    a painful and involuntary muscular contraction
    Nausea meds MUST bs taken on schedule to be effective and now stomach cramps were a problem.
  1005. follow
    travel behind, go after, or come after
    Details about service and life celebration will follow today but we are planning visitation and events about Sept 23 to 25 (in 2 weeks) to have time prepare arangements .
  1006. changing
    marked by continuous modification or effective action
    Life is changing fast for all of us now.
  1007. salad
    food mixtures either arranged on a plate or tossed and served with a moist dressing; usually consisting of or including greens
    Soups, small ham sandwichs, and occasional baked beans and potatoe salad work.
  1008. be sick
    eject the contents of the stomach through the mouth
    (Christa was the friend that hopped a plane immediately from Florida when Rita was first in the hospital in March)

    To honestly answer the question "How is Rta doing?",she is tired of being sick and somewhat depressed about when she will improve.
  1009. flooded
    covered with water
    It's been a tough week for nashville's flood recovery but we were were fortunate to have a dry home and office. ( not counting 10 flooded rental cars, but that's another story)

    Rita's week was not the best but Saturday was better.
  1010. forward
    at or to or toward the front
    Rita has fan mail every day and looks forward to it.
  1011. space
    the unlimited expanse in which everything is located
    She has learned to space the nausa and liquid pain meds with nasty meals to prevent the throw-ups.
  1012. ice
    water frozen in the solid state
    We had our own Labor day cookout complete with homemade ice cream.
  1013. Mon
    a member of a Buddhist people living in Myanmar and adjacent parts of Thailand
    The scan is on Mon, the 16th and meeting with DR Penley is Tues afternoon to see results of chem the last 4 months.
  1014. here
    in or at this place; where the speaker or writer is
    The hospice nurse was here Tues. afternoon and assisted me with med adjustments and comfort suggestions.
  1015. harbor
    a sheltered port where ships can take on or discharge cargo
    The CEO roundtable members, Cedar creek Club members, Rock Harbor Club members and my Skal group that have offered consistant support.
  1016. full
    containing as much or as many as is possible or normal
    I dont't won't to miss the garbage pickup today because cans are full!
  1017. egg
    animal reproductive body consisting of an ovum or embryo together with nutritive and protective envelopes; especially the thin-shelled reproductive body laid by e.g. female birds
    She has enjoyed scrambled eggs with cheese this week with soft toast and jam yesterday.
  1018. chopped
    prepared by cutting
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  1019. alive
    possessing life
    Tuesday, August 31, 2010 11:39 PM, CDT
    Well it's Tuesday nite and Rita and I have already had a full week of visitors and great comfort care from Alive Hospice!
  1020. dwell on
    delay
    She is quitely resilient during this and does not dwell on the big picture of this illness.
  1021. year
    the period of time that it takes for a planet (as, e.g., Earth or Mars) to make a complete revolution around the sun
    Hazel Hughes, her Mary Kay consultant for 20 years, came by and told her how beautiful she looked and she was right!
  1022. probably
    with considerable certainty; without much doubt
    I probably would have stripped the threads and caused a fire.
  1023. one
    smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  1024. mobile
    moving or capable of moving readily
    That said, she is still not mobile with hip and leg pain and that condition tires her and makes her very iratated.
  1025. pick out
    pick out, select, or choose from a number of alternatives
    Despite the pain in her leg, she still picked out a matching top and pants to go with her blue stripe walking shoes.
  1026. selected
    chosen in preference to another
    So a less toxic chemo was selected with only two drugs and she completed the first treatment today.This chemo will have no hair loss and will be managed by Dr Penley instead of a trial doctor for the group.
  1027. prescription
    the action of issuing authoritative rules or directions
    She had a couple of throw-ups friday but today i reviewed the prescription instructions again and changed the timing on one of the nauses pills.
  1028. Sullivan
    United States architect known for his steel framed skyscrapers and for coining the phrase `form follows function' (1856-1924)
    Christa Huseby, for your quick trip to Nashville when Rita was first in the hospital and to Nancy Morris and Wendy Sullivan, my neighbor, for delicious meals.
  1029. complication
    the act or process of making more difficult or challenging
    Tell a Friend About CaringBridge
    Do you know a family facing cancer, pregnancy complications or serious injury?
  1030. draw in
    pull inward or towards a center
    Oh I forget to mention that David brought Larkin over after work to bring Rita (Grammy) a picture she drew in school.
  1031. ride
    sit and travel on the back of animal, usually while controlling its motions
    For chauffer rides. the WC works best with me driving.
  1032. whiskey
    a liquor made from fermented mash of grain
    Goes down just like whiskey he said.
  1033. verbal
    of or relating to or formed from words in general
    His very firm written and verbal instructions to donate hie body to Meharry Medical School were also honored.
  1034. extra
    more than is needed, desired, or required
    But last week she had a taste for Kentucky Fried Chicken, extra crispy, so off I go to Charlotte Ave in 5 o'clock traffic to get it!
  1035. exhausted
    depleted of energy, force, or strength
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  1036. chapel
    a place of worship that has its own altar
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  1037. shoot
    fire a shot
    But with a shot of morphine and a zanex she ot settled again and back to sleep.
  1038. mistaken
    wrong in opinion or judgment
    Nausea is sometimes mistaken for hunger so we have to be prepared.
  1039. being
    the state or fact of existing
    Next week is the 4th chemo treatment of 6 planned so Rita is closer to being done.
  1040. additional
    further or extra
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  1041. crisp
    tender and brittle
    First, Sheila Crisp also came over yesterday and brought a turkey casserole for me in addition to her fun, exciting presonality that always lifts Rita's spirits.
  1042. insure
    protect by a contract of reimbursement in case of loss
    Her goal now is to increase calorie intake by eating more and taking supplements like boost or Insure.
  1043. tomato
    mildly acid red or yellow pulpy fruit eaten as a vegetable
    Friday is blood work day at Dr Cato's so there is an agenda most every day,

    Tonite Rita enjoyed fresh tomatoes, onion, and a small red potatoe and milk.
  1044. hurt
    be the source of pain
    This morning Rita "wheeled" herself to the LR to visit without extra pain meds AND her hip did not hurt!
  1045. tar
    any of various dark heavy viscid substances obtained as a residue
    Debbie is with David,Elizabeth and Larkin picking up tar balls on the beach and swimming in the pool.
  1046. going
    the act of departing
    Going to the BR means we have to get adjusted again on return to bed or recliner with pillows and position.
  1047. freeze
    change from a liquid to a solid when cold
    And then on Friday Christa and Bob Huseby come over and bring a fresh pot roast, which I had to freeze until later.
  1048. depend on
    be contingent on
    That depends on who you ask and when.
  1049. horrible
    shockingly frightful or awful
    I think we all know how horrible those side effects can be so please pray with us that the medications to control the effects work their magic.
  1050. come in
    to come or go into
    Debbie came in from Atlanta on Wed nite so she stayed with Rita while I went to the office.I could still remember how to get there and my desk had not been moved, but I wasn't on the work schedule.
  1051. rainy
    (of weather) wet by periods of rain
    Don



    Saturday, May 15, 2010 3:02 PM, CDT
    Well it's another rainy Saturday but not like two weeks ago.
  1052. organize
    arrange by systematic planning and united effort
    Today she was determined to work on the computer and organize the payables due this month but could not get comfortable with the computer in her lap so if she will let me do it, she can "coach" me from the recliner tomorrow.
  1053. meantime
    the time between one event, process, or period and another
    In the meantime.
  1054. threads
    informal terms for clothing
    I probably would have stripped the threads and caused a fire.
  1055. taking
    the act of someone who picks up or takes something
    Actually she is taking Megestrol daily to enhance appetite which should take effect in 5 to 7 days.
  1056. Village
    a mainly residential district of Manhattan
    He wanted her to come to the father's day event at Belmont Village to hear music he thought she would like but he died on the 12th and Rita was could not have attended anyway.
  1057. transfer
    move from one place to another
    This week has been some better for Rita with the hip pain gone so she can "transfer" from the WC to bed, BR, or the recliner in the living room (LR).
  1058. couple
    two items of the same kind
    Showers take a lot of strength with a seat and handrails but we do get a couple in every week.(Hospice will be able to help with bathing and care if needed) Last evening during the Braves game, she woke up after a nap and said she was hungry... and wanted a pizza!
  1059. handy
    skillful at making things or doing manual tasks
    But the walk and ride took it's toll on Rita's energy and pain tolerance so we used the handy morphine kit and came home and put on two new 3 day pain patches and she slept till 8:30 PM! Yes, she slept through the first hour of "Dancing With The Stars" but it is ALWAYS taped so she can watch it later.
  1060. inability
    lack of capacity to do something
    Another real issue is her inability to eat.
  1061. Smith
    Scottish economist who advocated private enterprise and free trade (1723-1790)
    Daughters Debra Smith and Michele Burgner changed her bed and clothes that nite.
  1062. hold in
    lessen the intensity of
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  1063. stay at
    reside temporarily
    Sorry for the late update on Rita's progress but as you were advised on this site,my father, Everett Burgner, passed away last Saturday,June 12, after a brief illness and stay at St Thomas hospital in Nashville.
  1064. voluntarily
    out of your own free will
    I guess this proves that if you don't retire voluntarily, something will come along that forces it on you.
  1065. hunter
    a person who searches for something
    Rita is resting now so I will stop this detail so you all don't get over loaded with TMI !(too much info)

    Yesterday Rita had a surprise visit from the Hagers and Hunters.
  1066. thing
    a separate and self-contained entity
    So I think things may improve soon but Rita may need some home health assistance at some point..
  1067. best
    having the most positive qualities
    Just call me first so I can plan best times. (615 202 126

    Thanks to all for cards calls and visits.
  1068. concentrate
    make denser, stronger, or purer
    Rita can read the paper and watch TV now that she can concentrate better with less daily pain meds.
  1069. miracle
    a marvelous event brought about by a divine being
    But first let me acknowledge a little "miracle"that occurred on Friday.Mark
  1070. incessant
    uninterrupted in time and indefinitely long continuing
    Because her throat is irritated from the radiation and the incessant cough that won't seem to go away, talking is beginning to zap what energy the radiation hasn't taken away.
  1071. discomfort
    the state of being tense and feeling pain
    But first I should define our objectives for comfort and quality of life goals versus treatments to extend life that continue misery and discomfort..and maybe no longer life expectancy anyway.
  1072. cleaning
    the act of making something clean
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  1073. bore
    make a hole, especially with a pointed power or hand tool
    Enough for now. too much of this could get boring!
  1074. valet
    someone employed to park and retrieve cars
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktails & Hor...
  1075. auction
    the public sale of something to the highest bidder
    And then Chris Turner had to be at the auction to sell 20 cars at 9AM!
  1076. daughter
    a female human offspring
    Daughters Debra Smith and Michele Burgner changed her bed and clothes that nite.
  1077. closest
    within the shortest distance
    She sleeps well at night and so do I!

    To make movement easier in the house with the new (FBWC) Fancy black wheel chair, now nick named "The Truck", I removed the hospital bed and changed her side to be closest to the BR and have room to park it without navigating so many hurdles.
  1078. instructions
    a manual explaining how to install or operate a device
    His very firm written and verbal instructions to donate hie body to Meharry Medical School were also honored.
  1079. rev
    rate of revolution of a motor
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  1080. interest
    a sense of concern with and curiosity about something
    Now this was an interesting visit because Rita asked Yvonn about her son, Brad, who died of lung cancer in 2007 at age 46.
  1081. mouth
    the opening through which food is taken in
    Appetite is gone and mouth tasts like metal so eating anything is a challenge.
  1082. participation
    the act of sharing in the activities of a group
    To mention everyone that has sent cards,called, or visited would be to long to list, but I APPRECIATE everyone's participation with Rita's recovery.
  1083. gain
    obtain
    Thanks gain to all of you.
  1084. Stevens
    United States psychologist and psychophysicist who proposed Stevens' power law to replace Fechner's law (1906-1973)
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  1085. movement
    change of position that does not entail a change of location
    Of course Rita never moves during the nite...the pain meds insulate her from all the animal movements.
  1086. handle
    touch, lift, or hold
    It saddens us all that he's had to take on this responsibility but he's handling it like he was born to do it.
  1087. ask
    make a request or demand for something to somebody
    Now this was an interesting visit because Rita asked Yvonn about her son, Brad, who died of lung cancer in 2007 at age 46.
  1088. nasty
    offensive or even (of persons) malicious
    She has learned to space the nausa and liquid pain meds with nasty meals to prevent the throw-ups.
  1089. ordeal
    a severe or trying experience
    Well between " ah sh..." it hurts and dammit I'm gonna throw up again, Rita is "managing " this ordeal pretty well.
  1090. irritated
    aroused to impatience or anger
    Because her throat is irritated from the radiation and the incessant cough that won't seem to go away, talking is beginning to zap what energy the radiation hasn't taken away.
  1091. shirt
    a garment worn on the upper half of the body
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  1092. focus on
    center upon
    She just must focus on eating and strength building.
  1093. perspective
    a way of regarding situations or topics
    Each day will be a new challenge until her strength improves and perspectives for the future.
  1094. dancing
    taking a series of rhythmical steps in time to music
    And yes, she did watch "Dancing With The Stars" last night in the LR because we do not have a DVR on the BR TV.

    And ,before forget, let me thank my roundtable group for sending Jim Hunt over last night with a beef tenderloin feast!
  1095. take hold
    have or hold in one's hands or grip
    The prayer efforts by Marty Ligon, Liz Alexander, Donna Tisdale that you explained to me last nite must have taken hold.
  1096. shot
    the act of firing a projectile
    But with a shot of morphine and a zanex she ot settled again and back to sleep.
  1097. digest
    convert food into absorbable substances
    Give us a few days to digest the information and we'll all come out with our fighting gloves on.
  1098. intense
    possessing a distinctive feature to a heightened degree
    The radiation has left her mouth and throat inflammed making it almost impossible to eat or even drink without pretty intense pain.
  1099. music
    an artistic form of auditory communication
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  1100. flower
    reproductive organ of plants especially if showy or colorful
    Thanks again to all you for support, visits, cards, flowers, food and good times with Rita.
  1101. realize
    be fully aware or cognizant of
    Tuesday, May 25, 2010 7:14 AM, CDT
    It has been 10 days now since my lasy entry and I did not realize it had been so long.
  1102. company
    an institution created to conduct business
    She enjoys and needs company ( in my opinion) but may be too weak to request visits or enjoy for long.
  1103. star
    a celestial body of hot gases that radiates energy
    On Monday she started physical thearpy at Star in Green Hills and has another session tomorrow.
  1104. sit
    take a seat
    Don



    Wednesday, September 8, 2010 7:35 AM, CDT
    It's Wed. morning, Sept. 8th, and it seems like ages ago since my notes of Sat, Sept. 4th, only 4 days.
  1105. remove
    take something away as by lifting, pushing, or taking off
    Debbie arrived at 11 Pm so we called the hospice chaplain and nurse for a family bedside service before Rita's body was removed.
  1106. throw off
    get rid of
    And Jim and Rita could discuss 'Dancing With The Stars ' to predict who will be thrown off on tonite show.
  1107. made
    produced by a manufacturing process
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    Nashville, TN 37236
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    Rita's website is made possible through donations.
  1108. clothes
    apparel in general
    Daughters Debra Smith and Michele Burgner changed her bed and clothes that nite.
  1109. up on
    being up to particular standard or level especially in being up to date in knowledge
    Look it up on line for all details and benifits.
  1110. Wayne
    United States film actor who played tough heroes (1907-1979)
    And all this time she kept her eye on The Masters Tourney to see if she could spot David Livingston or Wayne Smith in the crowd who were enjoying our Masters tickets with their friends.
  1111. play
    engage in recreational activities rather than work
    Also yesterday I rolled her out on the deck with family and she played with Larkin, our 2 &1/2 yr old grand daughter for about 10 minutes.
  1112. cold water
    disparagement of a plan or hope or expectation
    With proper preparation with pills laid out and a cold water supply, she can be alone for two to three hours at a time.
  1113. people
    any group of human beings collectively
    And yes she would be surprised at the at the many people who have expressed in cards and journal notes how she had influenced their lives.
  1114. and so
    subsequently or soon afterward
    And I reduced pain patch to 50 mg last nite to see if that will manage hip pain well enough ....and so she can remembed how to use TV remote.
  1115. down
    in a lower place or position
    The morphine and pain patch help her sleep and keep pains down that are increasing daily.
  1116. Thomas
    the Apostle who would not believe the resurrection of Jesus until he saw Jesus with his own eyes
    Michele is the only one in town this week to "party" with so she and Thomas may come over later.
  1117. wheeled
    having wheels; often used in combination
    This morning Rita "wheeled" herself to the LR to visit without extra pain meds AND her hip did not hurt!
  1118. member
    anything that belongs to a set or class
    On monday the social service member of Hospice visited and gained info about Rita and made some suggestions for her care, like a bedside potty and oxygen machine which was delivered by 5 PM. The potty is a backup if the driver of the WC can't get there fast enough.
  1119. different
    unlike in nature, quality, form, or degree
    Treating lung cancer is a moving target with different applications for different patients with new trials going on every day to discover improved treatment options.
  1120. portion
    something determined in relation to a thing that includes it
    Two or three "Boost" drinks with 360 cals each plus two or three very small portion meals are targets but she has no real taste for anything and does not want me to even discuss menue items until she has to eat something.
  1121. application
    the action of putting something into operation
    Treating lung cancer is a moving target with different applications for different patients with new trials going on every day to discover improved treatment options.
  1122. 25th
    coming next after the twenty-fourth in position
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  1123. respond
    show a reaction to something
    Nancy Morris and Susie and Don Weidknecht came by to see her ( with more food) but she did not respond. (however she still could hear so we said pleasant words).
  1124. bathing
    the act of washing yourself (or another person)
    Showers take a lot of strength with a seat and handrails but we do get a couple in every week.(Hospice will be able to help with bathing and care if needed) Last evening during the Braves game, she woke up after a nap and said she was hungry... and wanted a pizza!
  1125. stuffed
    filled with something
    Rita will eat a few bites of this tonite and some of the stuffed potatoes.
  1126. settle
    become resolved, fixed, established, or quiet
    But with a shot of morphine and a zanex she ot settled again and back to sleep.
  1127. result
    something that follows as a consequence
    The scan is on Mon, the 16th and meeting with DR Penley is Tues afternoon to see results of chem the last 4 months.
  1128. improving
    getting higher or more vigorous
    The 3rd chemo was last Friday and Dr. Penley said it "looked like" she was improving.
  1129. pot
    metal or earthenware cooking vessel that is usually round and deep; often has a handle and lid
    I am almost done with Christa's pot roast reference in my last notes and it was GOOD Christa.
  1130. neck
    the part of an organism (human or animal) that connects the head to the rest of the body
    The intense pain in her neck and hip do seem to be subsiding on most days.
  1131. control
    power to direct or determine
    I think we all know how horrible those side effects can be so please pray with us that the medications to control the effects work their magic.
  1132. contact
    the act of touching physically
    Contact me first on cell 615 202 1264 to plan time.
  1133. balance
    harmonious arrangement or relation of parts within a whole
    The balance of eating and nausea is a challenge.
  1134. fruit
    the ripened reproductive body of a seed plant
    They. brought baloons to sparkle the room (no watering) and delious fruit and soup. (for me mostly) Rita always enjoys visits once she comits to feelind good.
  1135. past
    earlier than the present time; no longer current
    The past few day have been filled with planning Rita's celebration weekend beginning with visitation on the 23rd.
  1136. spell
    write or name the letters that comprise the accepted form of
    I will try to watch my spelling this time.
  1137. noon
    the middle of the day
    After a great weekend with Lorna and visits from Krista, she actually was tired so she slept to noon on Monday.
  1138. shop
    a mercantile establishment for the retail sale of goods or services
    Boy do I have some shopping to do now!
  1139. diversion
    a turning aside
    It's a diversion from Rita's favorite re runs of "The Closer" and other murder stories from "Cold Case Files".
  1140. wine
    fermented juice (of grapes especially)
    Debbie is working out the memorial service and music with Rev Becca Stevens; David is compiling the Elvis playlist from his I-pod for the celebration party (Larkin at 3yrs can already sing 4 Elvis songs ) ; Debra is the hospitality host planning the celebration venue at The Wine Loft on Friday; and then Michele (the family thearpist) is counseling all of us, especially me, through these emotional times.
  1141. care for
    be fond of; be attached to
    Yesterday, (Friday) I stayed home with Debbie to care for Rita but she did not wake up until 1:30 PM! I really thought she was in a coma, but the hospice nurse came in at 2PM and she was OK...sort of.
  1142. commitment
    the act of binding yourself to a course of action
    Rita and I both are proud of this Thrifty team and sincerely thank al of you for your dedication and commitment to helping us get through these challenging times.
  1143. mention
    make reference to
    Oh I forget to mention that David brought Larkin over after work to bring Rita (Grammy) a picture she drew in school.
  1144. communion
    sharing thoughts and feelings
    Becka offered communion and prayer for all of us.
  1145. bring home
    earn as a salary or wage
    David, Elizabeth, and Larkin came over to help eat the "bouus" chicken I brought home.
  1146. out of
    motivated by
    After Friday's visit with cousins when she went to the recliner in the living room, she has not been out of the bed.
  1147. pork
    meat from a domestic hog or pig
    First a nausea tablet that disolves, then "food " like ceral and bananas, beeforni for lunch or cannation milk shakes and last night 4 bites of pork chop and potatoes.
  1148. folks
    people in general (often used in the plural)
    So keep it up folks, Rita will make it back soon!
  1149. gal
    alliterative term for girl (or woman)
    Now what gal would Rita play if Lorna was "Mama" ?
  1150. clip
    a small fastener used to hold loose articles together
    This means Ester had to hand her the makeup and face creames etc. that completes the process while Rita keeps the oxygen clip in her nose!
  1151. future
    the time yet to come
    Each day will be a new challenge until her strength improves and perspectives for the future.
  1152. dish
    a piece of dishware normally used as a container for holding or serving food
    An hour later she asked if I had her pie ready so I brought another dish and she ate that!
  1153. driving
    the act of controlling and steering the movement of a vehicle or animal
    My friends Charlie Umbarger and Mark Slater drove over from Chatt. to visit so we went to lunch before driving back to my house to see Rita.
  1154. 8th
    coming next after the seventh and just before the ninth in position
    Don



    Wednesday, September 8, 2010 7:35 AM, CDT
    It's Wed. morning, Sept. 8th, and it seems like ages ago since my notes of Sat, Sept. 4th, only 4 days.
  1155. in the beginning
    with reference to the origin or beginning
    Nothing has really changed since the last update except we both agree that as Dr. Penley said in the beginning, "cancer sucks" The 5th chemo will be next friday so Rita continues to hold on to short periods of "feel good" times to get through this process.
  1156. rolled
    rolled up and secured
    Yes, shs very fatigued but when Ester rolled her into the room she was "Mary Kay" fresh and ready for visitors.
  1157. exhaust
    wear out completely
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  1158. gene
    part of DNA controlling physical characteristics and growth
    And, Gene and Judy Kirby have ordered a hot catered meal to be sent over when I order it.
  1159. session
    a meeting for execution of a group's functions
    On Monday she started physical thearpy at Star in Green Hills and has another session tomorrow.
  1160. expend
    use up or consume fully
    Cures have not been found yet, but different applications offer expended survival time with improved life quality within that time, what ever it is.
  1161. get along
    have a smooth or friendly relationship
    Anyway we are still getting along despite my short memory on stuff.
  1162. survival
    the state of remaining alive
    Cures have not been found yet, but different applications offer expended survival time with improved life quality within that time, what ever it is.
  1163. turkey
    large gallinaceous bird with fan-shaped tail
    First, Sheila Crisp also came over yesterday and brought a turkey casserole for me in addition to her fun, exciting presonality that always lifts Rita's spirits.
  1164. healing
    the natural process by which the body repairs itself
    Don Burgner



    Friday, April 16, 2010 9:15 AM, CDT
    A good morning this Friday to all of you keeping up with Rita's healing journey.
  1165. hair
    a covering for the body (or parts of it) consisting of a dense growth of threadlike structures (as on the human head); helps to prevent heat loss
    The good news this week is that Rita decided to get her hair done and a manicure on Thursday.
  1166. decide
    reach, make, or come to a conclusion about something
    The good news this week is that Rita decided to get her hair done and a manicure on Thursday.
  1167. why
    the cause or intention underlying an action or situation, especially in the phrase `the whys and wherefores'
    That is why she does not get up much or move around to keep from getting sick.
  1168. shawl
    a garment used to cover the shoulders or head
    Thanks especially to Gail Livingston for the prayer shawl that Rita's keeps near her all day.
  1169. gallon
    United States liquid unit equal to 4 quarts or 3.785 liters
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  1170. somebody
    a human being
    Had somebody "stolen" Rita and the 'Chair:?
  1171. confirmation
    information that verifies
    Therefore I am skipping that process of his death and proceeding to a memorial and life celebration event to be held in Chattanooga, Saturday, JULY 31, at 3 PM, at Northside Presbyterian Church on Mississippi Ave. Obituary and confirmation of this memorial will follow in later anouncements.
  1172. must
    a necessary or essential thing
    I must go now to attend to her needs.
  1173. expanded
    increased in extent or size or bulk or scope
    Chris has helped get our IT equipment moved to the expanded counter location in the Nashville airport.
  1174. Call
    a special disposition to pursue a particular course
    Call me if you prefer 615 202 1264.
  1175. depressed
    filled with melancholy and despondency
    (Christa was the friend that hopped a plane immediately from Florida when Rita was first in the hospital in March)

    To honestly answer the question "How is Rta doing?",she is tired of being sick and somewhat depressed about when she will improve.
  1176. motor
    machine that creates mechanical energy and imparts movement
    Since she is not able to be on the boat this summer, I had the bright idea that a MOTOR HOME might work for travel after chemo so she could rest while touring.
  1177. get at
    reach or gain access to
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  1178. get it
    understand, usually after some initial difficulty
    But last week she had a taste for Kentucky Fried Chicken, extra crispy, so off I go to Charlotte Ave in 5 o'clock traffic to get it!
  1179. interval
    the distance between things
    This past 3 week interval has been difficult.
  1180. cause
    events that provide the generative force of something
    I probably would have stripped the threads and caused a fire.
  1181. give
    transfer possession of something concrete or abstract
    The last journal note gave details on those events.
  1182. chaplain
    a member of the clergy ministering to some institution
    Debbie arrived at 11 Pm so we called the hospice chaplain and nurse for a family bedside service before Rita's body was removed.
  1183. joke
    a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter
    It all feels like some cruel joke.
  1184. Hunt
    Englishman and Pre-Raphaelite painter (1827-1910)
    And yes, she did watch "Dancing With The Stars" last night in the LR because we do not have a DVR on the BR TV.

    And ,before forget, let me thank my roundtable group for sending Jim Hunt over last night with a beef tenderloin feast!
  1185. role
    the actions and activities assigned to a person or group
    Lorna used her time with Rita to study her lines for her role in the up coming Cedar Creek Yacht Club play "Golden Girls" in September.
  1186. Tell
    a Swiss patriot who lived in the early 14th century and who was renowned for his skill as an archer; according to legend an Austrian governor compelled him to shoot an apple from his son's head with his crossbow (which he did successfully without mishap)
    Tell a Friend About CaringBridge
    Do you know a family facing cancer, pregnancy complications or serious injury?
  1187. ways
    structure consisting of a sloping way down to the water from the place where ships are built or repaired
    Prayers have worked for Rita and all of us in many ways that are difficult to define at this time.
  1188. go forward
    move ahead; travel onward in time or space
    David is doing an excellant job and is going to add a new perpespective
    to to our company going forward.
  1189. crack
    a narrow opening
    But the real nagging issue is the small crack n her pelvis bome that shoots pain down her right leg to her ancle when not in the support position of the bed or recliner.So the daily routine is managing the pain meds to be comfortable when she moves.
  1190. away
    at a distance in space or time
    The sad news is that Rita passed away at 8:45 PM last nite after a difficult breathing day.
  1191. prepared
    made ready or fit or suitable beforehand
    Nausea is sometimes mistaken for hunger so we have to be prepared.
  1192. ask for
    increase the likelihood of
    This morning Rita woke up at 5AM asking for help and needing to go to BR. So I hop up and find the kitty asleep on her stomach which was creating a little bladder pressure.
  1193. spoon
    a piece of cutlery with a shallow bowl-shaped container and a handle; used to stir or serve or take up food
    Such as sliding pills down with applesauce and using a "shot" glass to gulp cough syrup instead of a messy spoon.
  1194. show up
    appear or become visible; make a showing
    David said we don't fire people , their name just does't apear on the schedule anymore if they don't show up.
  1195. sit in
    attend as a visitor
    She can actually sit in the WC and on the throne without leg pain.
  1196. making
    the act that results in something coming to be
    The short answer is fine"and making progress.
  1197. rash
    imprudently incurring risk
    Side effects of chemo are the usual nausa and a llittle rash on her arms wich is managed with various nausea meds.
  1198. alone
    isolated from others
    With proper preparation with pills laid out and a cold water supply, she can be alone for two to three hours at a time.
  1199. arrive at
    reach a destination, either real or abstract
    Debbie arrived at 11 Pm so we called the hospice chaplain and nurse for a family bedside service before Rita's body was removed.
  1200. review
    look at again; examine again
    I need to review all Deb's BVI trip pictures from 07 (Wow,3 years ago) and relive the "good ole days".
  1201. lay out
    lay out orderly or logically in a line or as if in a line
    With proper preparation with pills laid out and a cold water supply, she can be alone for two to three hours at a time.
  1202. pad
    a flat mass of soft material used for protection, stuffing, or comfort
    A nurse came to our home immediately and evaluated her condition and changed some meds and ordered an improved comfort mattress pad and anything else needed.
  1203. clue
    evidence that helps to solve a problem
    Since I always try to have a positive answer even when I have no clue to solutions, she is beginning to think of me as "Dr. Quack" .I
  1204. tow
    drag behind
    Now let's see......gas or diesel, 40 ft or more, and choice of options?...special power hookups and parking at Thrifty...what car or cycle to tow...charts,(maps now, its not a boat) on campsites(not marinas)...and ,yes. the good part, a fuel efficient coach should get at least 3 miles to the gallon which is 6 times better than the SENORITA (which does not use any gas now because it don't go anywhere).
  1205. warrior
    someone engaged in or experienced in warfare
    Thanks for cards and prayer warriors!
  1206. consider
    think about carefully; weigh
    It is probably time to consider comfort treatments in addition to chemo to improve life quality.
  1207. battle
    a hostile meeting of opposing military forces
    This has been a slow downhill battle with Rita's energy,strength and weight loss that must reverse course soon.
  1208. means
    how a result is obtained or an end is achieved
    This means Ester had to hand her the makeup and face creames etc. that completes the process while Rita keeps the oxygen clip in her nose!
  1209. officially
    in an authoritative role
    She is officially retired from Thrifty now, but consults with David on where to find stuff in her office.
  1210. smoked
    dried and cured by hanging in wood smoke
    Since Rita is in the 10% of people that get lung cancer that have never smoked, the chance of lung cancer is greater if you do smoke!
  1211. off
    from a particular thing or place or position
    Monday started off with Christa Huseby coming to stay with Rita for me to do errands, but Christa did the errands while I waited for Rita to wake up and wait for the hospice visit.
  1212. set up
    create by putting components or members together
    Ron Perkins and Karen Unger were with us today in this process and were a big help setting up the house for change.
  1213. 16th
    coming next after the fifteenth in position
    The scan is on Mon, the 16th and meeting with DR Penley is Tues afternoon to see results of chem the last 4 months.
  1214. frequent
    coming at short intervals or habitually
    I will try to offer more frequent and brief reports in the future because changes happen fast.
  1215. get over
    travel across or pass over
    Rita is resting now so I will stop this detail so you all don't get over loaded with TMI !(too much info)

    Yesterday Rita had a surprise visit from the Hagers and Hunters.
  1216. rhythm
    an interval during which a recurring sequence occurs
    Thankfully, she's gotten the rhythm of the pain medication and nausea medication under control.
  1217. sure
    having or feeling no doubt or uncertainty
    But she does like "coaching ' me in the kitchen as a reference to where everything is and to make sure I put thing back in thei place.
  1218. most
    used to indicate the greatest amount or degree of a quality
    So Rita slept most all day Thursday in the living room recliner except for a brief time that evening.
  1219. 125
    being five more than one hundred twenty
    Christa Huseby bought her some new clothes at Chico's that fit...Rita is a 0 or 1 size today for her trim 125 lbs.
  1220. fancy
    not plain; decorative or ornamented
    The hospice aid had just left from cleaning her bed and nite shirt (one of my old large T shirts cut to fit for bed cover up..Rita would not wear fancy pajamas) and that really took energy and exhausted her.
  1221. 6th
    coming next after the fifth and just before the seventh in position
    The 6th and last chemo is in two weeks so we hope it has done some good for all this misery Rita has endured.
  1222. picture
    a visual representation produced on a surface
    Oh I forget to mention that David brought Larkin over after work to bring Rita (Grammy) a picture she drew in school.
  1223. await
    look forward to the probable occurrence of
    Sorry for the lack of details, but I know many were anxiously awaiting an update from yesterday's appointment.
  1224. each
    separately for every person or thing
    Each day will be a new challenge until her strength improves and perspectives for the future.
  1225. part
    one of the portions into which something is regarded as divided and which together constitute a whole
    All the "kids" are doing some special part to remember their mother.
  1226. Presbyterian
    a follower of Calvinism as taught in the Presbyterian Church
    Therefore I am skipping that process of his death and proceeding to a memorial and life celebration event to be held in Chattanooga, Saturday, JULY 31, at 3 PM, at Northside Presbyterian Church on Mississippi Ave. Obituary and confirmation of this memorial will follow in later anouncements.
  1227. onion
    bulbous plant having hollow leaves cultivated worldwide for its rounded edible bulb
    Friday is blood work day at Dr Cato's so there is an agenda most every day,

    Tonite Rita enjoyed fresh tomatoes, onion, and a small red potatoe and milk.
  1228. fight
    be engaged in a contest or struggle
    She fights nausea daily with meds that do work but it is an effort.
  1229. idea
    the content of cognition
    Since she is not able to be on the boat this summer, I had the bright idea that a MOTOR HOME might work for travel after chemo so she could rest while touring.
  1230. 2nd
    coming next after the first in position in space or time or degree or magnitude
    Next Friday is the 2nd chemo treatment so we will hope for more progress by then.
  1231. authorized
    sanctioned by established authority
    Her breathing rate really increased so I called the hospice nurse out again and morphine was authorized again every 30 minutes.
  1232. mile
    a unit of length equal to 1,760 yards or 5,280 feet
    Mike Manous was referred to as "Mile Manous" in the last update.
  1233. toll
    a fee levied for the use of roads or bridges
    But the walk and ride took it's toll on Rita's energy and pain tolerance so we used the handy morphine kit and came home and put on two new 3 day pain patches and she slept till 8:30 PM! Yes, she slept through the first hour of "Dancing With The Stars" but it is ALWAYS taped so she can watch it later.
  1234. build
    make by combining materials and parts
    She has excercises to do at home to build strength.
  1235. catch up
    learn belatedly; find out about something after it happened
    And my "assistant care givers" Gayle Livingston and Charlott Reeves, for spending days with Rita so I can catch up on oyher things.
  1236. plastic
    synthetic material that can be molded into objects
    Since a distilled water


    attachment had to be installed with a plastic screw, I waited to today for the hospice nurse to put it on.
  1237. clothe
    provide with clothes or put clothes on
    Daughters Debra Smith and Michele Burgner changed her bed and clothes that nite.
  1238. instal
    set up for use
    Since a distilled water


    attachment had to be installed with a plastic screw, I waited to today for the hospice nurse to put it on.
  1239. suck
    draw into the mouth by creating a vacuum in the mouth
    Nothing has really changed since the last update except we both agree that as Dr. Penley said in the beginning, "cancer sucks" The 5th chemo will be next friday so Rita continues to hold on to short periods of "feel good" times to get through this process.
  1240. wait
    stay in one place and anticipate or expect something
    Since a distilled water


    attachment had to be installed with a plastic screw, I waited to today for the hospice nurse to put it on.
  1241. flood
    the rising of a body of water and its overflowing onto land
    It's been a tough week for nashville's flood recovery but we were were fortunate to have a dry home and office. ( not counting 10 flooded rental cars, but that's another story)

    Rita's week was not the best but Saturday was better.
  1242. Sue
    French writer whose novels described the sordid side of city life (1804-1857)
    Sue McSweeney brought a delicious cake Sunday and Christa Huesby cooked a mexixcan special that lasted two meals for me.And yesterday Rebecca Ramsey sent a very beautiful flower arrangement.
  1243. assuming
    excessively forward or presumptuous
    I sent a recliner to the office so she can visit and talk to David as he gets adjusted to assuming her duties at Thrifty.
  1244. sooner
    comparatives of `soon' or `early'
    Why didn't we think of this sooner?
  1245. ease
    freedom from difficulty or hardship or effort
    To make Rita sleep better, Dr Penley ordered a special bed to ease her pain in the hip while it heals and thew in a wheel chair so I could get her to appointments easier, and on time!
  1246. 17th
    coming next after the sixteenth in position
    The "scan" is on Aug 16 and Dr penley on the 17th so maybe there will time without treatment and a chance to gain a desire for food again.
  1247. learn
    gain knowledge or skills
    I WILL LEARN TO USE IT !
  1248. retired
    no longer active in your work or profession
    Now I know what you retired guys do all day!
  1249. suite
    the group following and attending to some important person
    When "The Blues Brothers" arrived (What David called the two body transport guys in dark suites), we were sad but lifted in spirits because ot the music we enjoyed together with Rita.
  1250. lurk
    lie in wait or behave in a sneaky and secretive manner
    The original hip pain is gone but more are lurking as coughng makes her body sore.
  1251. die
    lose all bodily functions necessary to sustain life
    Now this was an interesting visit because Rita asked Yvonn about her son, Brad, who died of lung cancer in 2007 at age 46.
  1252. go to sleep
    prepare for sleep
    About 10 PM I moved her to the new "power bed" and went to sleep by her.
  1253. due
    that which is deserved or owed
    Today she was determined to work on the computer and organize the payables due this month but could not get comfortable with the computer in her lap so if she will let me do it, she can "coach" me from the recliner tomorrow.
  1254. never
    not ever; at no time in the past or future
    You never know what her appetite will crave for now!
  1255. comb
    a flat device with narrow pointed teeth on one edge
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  1256. hold
    have in one's hands or grip
    Don
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:42 PM, CDT
    See some additional photos added to "Photos"


    Saturday, September 11, 2010 12:05 PM, CDT
    Here is info on Rita's Celebration of Life events to be held in 2 weeks.
  1257. quit
    put an end to a state or an activity
    Live daily with this disease and the decision to quit would be a no brainer.Enough said on that subject, but if her illness influences others to quit in time, maybe she will save others from this misery.
  1258. kid
    young goat
    All the "kids" are doing some special part to remember their mother.
  1259. spent
    depleted of energy, force, or strength
    And my caregiver substitute, LORNA SULLINS, who spent 3 days with Rita this past weekend while I was in Chattanooga for my father's memorial and party.
  1260. thought
    the content of cognition
    Yesterday, (Friday) I stayed home with Debbie to care for Rita but she did not wake up until 1:30 PM! I really thought she was in a coma, but the hospice nurse came in at 2PM and she was OK...sort of.
  1261. done
    having finished or arrived at completion
    The 6th and last chemo is in two weeks so we hope it has done some good for all this misery Rita has endured.
  1262. rector
    a person authorized to conduct religious worship
    Then we had a very special visit from Becka Humans, rector of St Augustines chapel at Vanderbilt.
  1263. basis
    the fundamental assumptions from which something is begun
    Braves struck out with the bases loaded and lost!......oh..that's not good..I said...You see, some things do get her attention!
  1264. administrative
    responsible for managing the affairs of a group of people
    Another area Rita excells is "coaching" David on financial issues and administrative items at Thrifty since he took over her job there 3 weeks ago.Just being able to answer a question or where to locate a file has been a big help to him.
  1265. cruel
    able or disposed to inflict pain or suffering
    It all feels like some cruel joke.
  1266. anxiety
    a vague unpleasant emotion in anticipation of a misfortune
    So i gave her an anxiety pill,some watermelon and we watched the Predators and went to bed.
  1267. somewhat
    to a small degree or extent
    We are developing a new routine to life now and are getting used to it, somewhat.
  1268. Baptist
    follower of Baptistic doctrines
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  1269. repetition
    the act of doing or performing again
    You see,Rita doesn't like boring repetition.
  1270. kit
    gear consisting of a set of articles or tools for a specified purpose
    But the walk and ride took it's toll on Rita's energy and pain tolerance so we used the handy morphine kit and came home and put on two new 3 day pain patches and she slept till 8:30 PM! Yes, she slept through the first hour of "Dancing With The Stars" but it is ALWAYS taped so she can watch it later.
  1271. comfortably
    in physical comfort
    She is resting comfortably and thankful for all your prayers and encouragement.
  1272. pea
    a leguminous plant of the genus Pisum with small white flowers and long green pods containing edible green seeds
    Don


    Monday, August 30, 2010 8:11 AM, CDT
    Rita went to bed early last nite (930 PM) after a small meal of chopped steak, mashed potatoes and peas.
  1273. magazine
    a periodic publication containing articles and pictures
    I have my boating magazines and pictures to be ready for the time Rita and I can be back on the lake.
  1274. tail
    the posterior part of the body of a vertebrate especially when elongated and extending beyond the trunk or main part of the body
    She awoke at 5AM today for BR trip and was so weak that I had to almost lift her on and off toilet but she went back to sleep with a shot of morphine for the pain in her tail bone.
  1275. reference
    the act of consulting
    But she does like "coaching ' me in the kitchen as a reference to where everything is and to make sure I put thing back in thei place.
  1276. along
    in line with a length or direction
    Three days of wine and beer bottles along with meals for 10 or more creates a lot of trash.
  1277. pick
    look for and gather
    Debbie is with David,Elizabeth and Larkin picking up tar balls on the beach and swimming in the pool.
  1278. spend
    pass time in a specific way
    And my caregiver substitute, LORNA SULLINS, who spent 3 days with Rita this past weekend while I was in Chattanooga for my father's memorial and party.
  1279. likely
    having a good chance of being the case or of coming about
    They most likely were "role playing" with each other.
  1280. burial
    the ritual placing of a corpse in a grave
    Since Everett didn't believe in burials or funerals, I spent the money on music,food, and drink)

    Rita was one of Everett's favorite people and they did not get to visit in his last days, but he knew the situation.
  1281. cat
    feline mammal usually having thick soft fur
    At least it will give Simba (aging 15 yr puppy) and Nala (frisky cat) more room on the bed.
  1282. traveled
    familiar with many parts of the world
    Also Johnny and Sally Chilton came too so we had a good time that day.We have traveled and partied with these folks many times so there was a lot to remember.
  1283. doubled
    twice as great or many
    Chris has doubled the business there in the last two months since we closed the Brentwood office in addition to preparing the daily business reports and assisting with computer and communication issues.
  1284. years
    a prolonged period of time
    Hazel Hughes, her Mary Kay consultant for 20 years, came by and told her how beautiful she looked and she was right!
  1285. last word
    an authoritative statement
    His last words to me were "take of Rita" which all of you have helped me do.
  1286. unlikely
    not likely to be true or to occur or to have occurred
    I think we're all hopeful that the right option will reveal itself easily and clearly but we all know that is unlikely.
  1287. way
    how something is done or how it happens
    An unusual way to honor Rita's passing moments, but she was smiling!
  1288. leaf
    the collective amount of leaves of one or more plants
    A walk across the room is very tiring and leaves her out of breath.
  1289. setting
    the physical position of something
    Ron Perkins and Karen Unger were with us today in this process and were a big help setting up the house for change.
  1290. put
    cause to be in a certain state
    We wanted her to be with Rita and us before hospice was called so David put on the Elvis DVD on the TV and we sang and enjoyed the show until Debbie arrived.
  1291. savings
    a fund of money put aside as a reserve
    During this time this team has consolidated the brentwood store into the Briley Parkway location for cost savings and efficiency and moved the entire airport counter into a new and larger area.
  1292. honestly
    it is sincerely the case that
    (Christa was the friend that hopped a plane immediately from Florida when Rita was first in the hospital in March)

    To honestly answer the question "How is Rta doing?",she is tired of being sick and somewhat depressed about when she will improve.
  1293. Aug
    the month following July and preceding September
    The "scan" is on Aug 16 and Dr penley on the 17th so maybe there will time without treatment and a chance to gain a desire for food again.
  1294. personal
    concerning an individual or his or her private life
    Mark is always in touch by phone and personal visit, but this guy does not even know how to load contacts on his phone!
  1295. crave
    have an appetite or great desire for
    You never know what her appetite will crave for now!
  1296. agitated
    physically disturbed or set in motion
    Movement and too much "chatter" around her makes her agitated and brings on coughing, which can bring on the "throw-ups", which she hates.
  1297. faithful
    loyal and reliable
    I hope this trivia doesn't
    bore our faithful readers.
  1298. in time
    within an indefinite time or at an unspecified future time
    Live daily with this disease and the decision to quit would be a no brainer.Enough said on that subject, but if her illness influences others to quit in time, maybe she will save others from this misery.
  1299. honored
    having an illustrious reputation; respected
    His very firm written and verbal instructions to donate hie body to Meharry Medical School were also honored.
  1300. look like
    bear a physical resemblance to
    The 3rd chemo was last Friday and Dr. Penley said it "looked like" she was improving.
  1301. capable
    having ability
    Anyway when Rita completes this chemo period and regains strength and appetite, we will be able to do things since our business is in such capable hands.
  1302. nearby
    not far away in relative terms
    Rita can stay by herself as long as meds,water and food are in place and the TV remote is nearby.
  1303. stripped
    with clothing stripped off
    I probably would have stripped the threads and caused a fire.
  1304. apart
    separated or at a distance in place or position or time
    I'm not exactly sure what that will consist of, but her treatments, from what I understand, will be spaced 21 days apart.
  1305. spit
    the act of spitting (forcefully expelling saliva)
    Don


    Thursday, August 5, 2010 8:00 AM, CDT
    It's mid-week now and Rita woke up at 6AM today wanting me to clean the kitty's hairball that got spit up in front of her bedside.
  1306. hot
    having a high or higher than desirable temperature
    Weather is beautiful, not as hot...yet, and a perfect boating day for those on the water.
  1307. handling
    the action of touching with the hands (or the skillful use of the hands) or by the use of mechanical means
    It saddens us all that he's had to take on this responsibility but he's handling it like he was born to do it.
  1308. trying
    hard to endure
    And all of us are trying to select our favorite photos for the DVD Debra is also preparing for everyone to see at the celebration.
  1309. learned
    having or showing profound knowledge
    She has learned to space the nausa and liquid pain meds with nasty meals to prevent the throw-ups.
  1310. resume
    take up or begin anew
    But her energy level and nausea resumed by Sunday alongwith that nagging cough.
  1311. in other words
    otherwise stated
    In other words, lung cancer at it's worst.
  1312. efficiency
    skillfulness in avoiding wasted time and effort
    During this time this team has consolidated the brentwood store into the Briley Parkway location for cost savings and efficiency and moved the entire airport counter into a new and larger area.
  1313. divinity
    a supernatural being who is worshipped
    Don
    Visitation for Rita Burgner
    Marshall Donnelly Combs Funeral Home
    201 25th Avenue north
    Thursday, September 23
    5:00pm – 8:00pm
    *************************************

    Memorial Service
    Friday, September 24
    3:00pm
    Benton Chapel
    At Vanderbilt Divinity School
    21st Avenue South and Scarritt Place
    *********************************************

    Please join us for a
    Celebration of Rita’s Life
    Friday, September 24
    5:00pm

    The Wine Loft
    503 12th Avenue South
    Cocktail...
  1314. mean
    denote or connote
    This means Ester had to hand her the makeup and face creames etc. that completes the process while Rita keeps the oxygen clip in her nose!
  1315. Day
    United States writer best known for his autobiographical works (1874-1935)
    The good news is that the weather was beautiful over the Labor Day weekend and all of our kids (adults over 40) were here to visit with Rita.
  1316. go on
    move forward, also in the metaphorical sense
    Treating lung cancer is a moving target with different applications for different patients with new trials going on every day to discover improved treatment options.
  1317. invalid
    no longer legally acceptable
    I do leave her alone for 2 tp 4 hrs and she can manage OK. She does not like being an "invalid" and having a "sitter"watch her sleep as she describes it.
  1318. discharged
    having lost your job
    I think we all assumed she'd be discharged today but it looks like that won't be happening.
  1319. drove
    a group of animals (a herd or flock) moving together
    My friends Charlie Umbarger and Mark Slater drove over from Chatt. to visit so we went to lunch before driving back to my house to see Rita.
  1320. look forward
    expect or hope for
    Rita has fan mail every day and looks forward to it.
  1321. bit
    a small piece or quantity of something
    Well let me back up a bit to Thursday and start from there...can't remember much farther back than that!
  1322. install
    set up for use
    Since a distilled water


    attachment had to be installed with a plastic screw, I waited to today for the hospice nurse to put it on.
  1323. chatter
    talk socially without exchanging too much information
    Movement and too much "chatter" around her makes her agitated and brings on coughing, which can bring on the "throw-ups", which she hates.
  1324. yet
    up to the present time
    Cures have not been found yet, but different applications offer expended survival time with improved life quality within that time, what ever it is.
  1325. and so on
    continuing in the same way
    The quick short answers are.....OK, fine,feeling "better", and so on.
  1326. envelope
    a flat container for a letter or thin package
    And the envelopes always addressed to "The Beautiful Mrs Rita" from her very special friend, Hazel Hughes, her Mary Kay consutant.
  1327. suggest
    make a proposal; declare a plan for something
    I suggested we discuss with the food network on but she gets sick when she sees all those adds for food stuffs.
  1328. read
    look at and say out loud something written or printed
    Read the tributes in honor of Rita.
Created on 九月 21, 2010

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