Robert has had his 2nd chemo treatment of his 2nd round of chemo and is doing good. This time around seems to be a little harder on him but he is still doing great! Ryan & Renissa's families are coming home for Easter so that will be fun for everyone. It will be great to be with Camrea to celebrate her being an offical family member! Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers! Happy Easter to each and every one of you. Love The Berning's

Papa & Nana finally made it back home! Horray! Rowdy was glad to see Papa! Thanks to everyone for all the thoughts and prayers!

WE ARE AT HOME!!!! Need I say more? There is no place like home sweet home.Rob and Brecken were here to help us unload and Jill and Shae had put the furniture back in the living room after Jason cleaned the carpets and Carl painted so part of the house is fresh and clean..... Was so good to step inside and see that all of that was done. THANKS TO EVERYONE! We love you and it is so nice to have love and support at a time like this.Robert went to pick up Rowdy. He was really missing him. I'm sure he will be excited to see Robert also.Our bed will feel nice tonight and with a couple of days at home I should have everything unpacked and maybe back to part way normal if there is such a thing as normal?What a journey we have had!I will go back to work Tues or Wed.I'll see how I feel.Thanks again to everyone who took the journey with us through prayer, spirit, phone calls, email, gifts, and food. We appreciate it all and words can never express our gratitude. We love you all!!!!!!!!Love and prayers, Robert & Roxie
March 14, 2009 6:28 PM

We are in KANSAS!!!! YEA! Made it to Kansas City last night about 8:30 p.m. Didn't get out of Rochester until 2:00 p.m. As we were coming out of Gonda building elevator, the piano player was playing "Somewhere over the Rainbow" and I thought what a great song to end our Mayo journey on. It gave me goose bumps and I thought it was a great send off....We clicked our ruby red slippers and followed the Yellow Brick road and it brought us to Kansas. We slept in a king size pillow top bed and slept like babies last night and then got to Augusta, Ks about noon today. Will spend the night at Ryan and Melissa's home and then on to Home Sweet Home!Renissa took the afternoon off so we could spend some time with them as they have baseball tourney in Oklahoma over the weekend and will be leaving in the morning. The grandkids were glad to see us and we got lots of hugs and kisses which we needed. After Papa gets up from his nap Nolan wants to take him bowling.It's great being here but we miss our wonderful friends from Hope Lodge. They have called to check on us several times. We were like one big family. Great friendships were formed. Seems strange not to have clinic appt schedules to keep. After six weeks of doing that it becomes routine.Anxious to see everyone when we get home. Hopefully we will be home Saturday sometime.Love and prayers, Robert and Roxie
March 13, 2009 3:12 PM

He rang the bell,He did it well,It will be a good day,When we finally get on our way!!!What an accomplishment! Mike, Melody, Kathy, her Dad and Judy were all there to see him celebrate 28 treatments over...We love you all for ringing the bells along with him.A few more appointments and we will be on the road to Kansas!!!Love,Robert and RoxieThanks for all your prayers!!!They really are being heard!

Robert will be ringing the bell tomorrow at approx 9:30.Ring this bellThree times wellThe toll to clearly sayMy treatments are doneIt's course has runAnd I am on my way!Please join with us by ringing bells at home three times to help us celebrate another part of our journey. What a journey!!!!!We will try and get to Kansas City tomorrow night and then on to Augusta on Friday and home Saturday! We'll follow the yellow brick road! I have my ruby red slippers ready to click and Dorothy and Toto will lead us home to Kansas! YEA!!!!See ya all soon!Love to all, Robert and Roxie

Can anyone hear me screaming?????Our last appt on Thursday is at 12:15 p.m. so we won't be getting out of town early like I thought.They still think he needs meds in his port for two more days and they messed up on todays schedule so that prolongs the stay. I guess better safe than sorry!Pot luck is tonight and it will be Bitter Sweet! We have made many wonderful lifetime friends and I'm sure some tears will be shed saying goodby. Goodby's have never been my best thing to do. I always like to say "SEE YA!"Sounds like the Spring like weather in Kansas has come to an end. Talked to Rod and he said it had turned cold. We'll feel like we are still in Minnesota.......Tomorrow night we will go out to supper with the two couples that make us laugh so will be fun to laugh again before we leave.Met a nice Mennonite fellow that voulenteers at the radiation department that has two sisters that live in Pence. He called and wanted to take us out to supper but our schedules won't work. It was very nice of him. His name was Leslie Amoth and his sisters are Mrs David Dirks and Mrs Robert Koehn from Pence. Fern and Frances. I'll have to tell our Mennonite friends at home about him when we get there. I'm sure he will look us up if he ever gets to Kansas.Hope to see you all SOON!Two more nights at the Lodge!Love, Roxie
March 10, 2009 2:03 PM

Didn't get to church yesterday so went this morning after Robert got his meds. Had breakfast and then he went upstairs for a nap and I went to Walmart and Kohls and a few other places. Haven't had any time to shop so just wanted to look. Really wasn't in the mood to buy much so mainly looked.It snowed about 4 or 5 inches this morning but has stopped. Boy, wouldn't we love that moisture at home!I have cheesy potatoes in for supper, will also do smoked sausage.4 more nights to stay here and then back to Kansas. Robert hasn't been feeling really well over the weekend so we have just took it easy and he has rested. He will be glad to get the chemo pump off.Pray for good weather and safe travel. See ya soon!Love, Roxie
March 8, 2009 4:29 PM

Most of the people from the Lodge went home for the weekend so it is quiet here. I made two pumpkin rolls and taco soup. Trying to use up all the food before we leave.Robert got his med's in his port this morning and then went back to bed for a nap. He is just so tired. I think the chemo is really starting to take it's toll on him.We might go to church over at St. Mary's @ 4:00 today as the time changes tonight and he has to be back over at the clinic tomorrow for more meds in his port.I'm trying to organize things so I can start packing the car on Wednesday while he is at his meeting.It's been nice to just have a day to rest and relax. Yesterday afternoon we drove around Rochester for awhile.Hope to see you all soon.Love, Robert and Roxie
March 7, 2009 2:24 PM

We are done at the clinic for today so Robert is up taking a nap and then wants to go do something.Not sure what???When we got back to the Lodge, I had good news. I had won the weekly quilt. It is a fleece tied blanket with dogs on it and blue.It will be nice to snuggle up with.Have a good weekend. Thursday we will head that way if the weather cooperates. See ya in Kansas!!!!Love, Roxie
March 6, 2009 11:34 AM

Today was busy but tomorrow we should be done by noon.We went out to supper with two other couples tonight. One brain cancer, Robert pancreatic cancer and the other Bob rectal cancer.We laughed so hard we almost fell off of our chairs. Bob was telling his Doctor stories. You can just imagine!!!! Laughter is the best medicine. The people at the Fisherman's Inn never would have guessed we were all from the Hope Lodge. The manager came out and said the laughter was contagious.Today Talen Shay turned one. Can't believe I was there last year at this time to spend a week and bond with him. Hope to see them next Friday.Diana Long sent us the Leoti Standard to read online so it's nice to keep up with the local news. We really enjoy that!Hope to have a laid back weekend.Most of the people from the Lodge go home for the weekends so sometimes it is quiet around here.Love, Roxie

Today has been a better day and I hope tomorrow is more laid back.7 days to go and we will head home if the weather allows us.We had going away supper for our dear friends Todd and Deb Biel tonight along with some tears. What a blessing it has been to know them. We will miss them but hope to see them sometime whenever either of us has a chance to travel.Old friends leave and new friends move in at the Lodge. I heard the waiting list is up to two weeks now. So glad we only had to wait a week.God is Good and he will be with us on this journey called CANCER.Robert is still real tired but hopefully after all of the chemo and radiation is done he will start to get his strength back.I took a nap from 10:30 this morn until noon. The early mornings are getting to me. Tomorrow we don't have to be at the clinic until after 9:00 so that will help.Hope to see all of you soon.Love, Roxie
March 4, 2009 8:59 PM

It's been a long morning. They tried to put the pick line in and after 1 1/2 hrs came out and told me they couldn't get it in so we are now in a different department with more technology to try and get it in. He has been in there for 45 min already so hopefully I will hear something soon. Then we have to go to get his chemo pump refilled and on, so he will be shot for the rest of the day. I canceled the meetings we had this afternoon as I knew he wouldn't be up to it. This has been another stressful week. Will update later when I know more. Keep the prayers coming. We just want to come home................Roxie

We are finally back at the Lodge.After 3 hours of trying to get the pick line in they finally got it in. Thank the good Lord. He is up in the room sleeping. I will let him sleep and then get him up for Pot Luck and the Mennonite singers that he wants to hear.Love to all, Roxie

It's been a long morning. They tried to put the pick line in and after 1 1/2 hrs came out and told me they couldn't get it in so we are now in a different department with more technology to try and get it in. He has been in there for 45 min already so hopefully I will hear something soon. Then we have to go to get his chemo pump refilled and on, so he will be shot for the rest of the day. I canceled the meetings we had this afternoon as I knew he wouldn't be up to it. This has been another stressful week. Will update later when I know more. Keep the prayers coming. We just want to come home................Roxie

Good news Friday, Bad news Monday!Had Dr appt with oncologist and was ready to go back on chemo and they decided they couldn't put it in the port because of the antibiotic lock so will have to go over in the morning @ 7:30 a.m. to have a pick line put in and then back up to have the chemo pump put back on. He is not a Happy Camper and neither am I. This journey called CANCER is not FUN and we are ready for the roller coaster ride to slow down for awhile and let us coast...... They took blood three more times today and he had radiation so he is wiped out. He is up in the room sleeping.I made White Chili and have poppy seed bread in the oven. The people up in this area have never heard of poppy seed bread or our famous Chocolate Dream Dessert. I'm introducing them to a lot of new foods. Brought a few of our family cookbooks and have given some special people them. I want to leave one here in our kitchen when we leave.Tomorrow night is Pot luck supper so hope we get to go. We had to miss last week because of his infection. The Mennonite singers are going to be here again so I want Robert to hear them. He missed them the last time because he was too tired.Had a good weekend. Went to Red Wing, Mn yesterday afternoon. Todd and Deb Biel took us. That is where they make the Red Wing boots and also pottery. I didn't know they did the pottery but I had to buy me a crock. It is gray-blue with wheat on it. It is pretty and I wanted an heirloom. It will look nice upon my kitchen shelf will wheat in it.Had supper with Todd, Deb and two Amish couples. Todd's MA sent some german dish called NEFLA. It was good. I had never had anything like it. It is dough balls with meat and saurkraut. The Amish couples are so funny and we enjoyed visiting with them.Will update tomorrow.Love, Roxie
March 2, 2009 5:21 PM

Good news Friday! Renissa called with good news, Ryan called and all his tests went well and the Doctor put Robert on oral meds so we don't have to get up early every morning and go back every night to have IV's! Yeah!!!!I will sleep in tomorrow, it is Saturday!!!Robert still has infection and will be on meds for 10 days. They think it is in the port line. The CT scan came back fine, so no abcess like they thought would have to be drained. We were so thankful for that. They are doing an antibiotic lock on his port to help the infection so we do have to go over once a day to have that put in but that doesn't take long. The other was a 3 hour ordeal twice a day. Exhausting!It's always good to end the week with GOOD NEWS! Hope it continues and we get to head home March 12th. Robert is missing Rowdy and wants to go home. He is tired of them poking around on him. He's not sure he has any blood left as much as they are taking all the time! Just glad the infection was caught early. We have a Dr appt on Monday to see if they start his chemo again. Have a good weekend. Love, Roxie and Robert
February 27, 2009 9:02 PM

NEWS FLASH! It's official!!!Miss Camrea Jean is now Miss Camrea Jean Riley!!!!!Congratulations to Darren, Renissa and Nolan. We are so happy and excited for them.Nolan even had to get upon the stand. The Judge's name was Judge Heart and it sounds like he had a BIG heart. He let Renissa go to the car and get her camera and they said he was so nice he even took a picture of all of them together as a family!!! What a blessing for everyone!I did get 1 1/2 nap. Was sleeping dreaming of them when the phone rang. Best phone call and good news I've had in a long time.Anxious to hear now from Ryan.We go to the Dr at 4:00 so hope today is GOOD NEWS day!Love, Roxie

It has been a long week. Robert has IV meds twice a day. 7:30 a.m and 7:30 p.m. Vancomyecin and another I think called empancin??The Vanco is heavy duty so hope the do the job. We have a Dr appt @ 4 this afternoon so hope to find out some results. We also have radiation everyday and three days a week we have a survey meeting for 1 1/2 hours. I need a nap and hope to get one this afternoon. We didn't get back to the Lodge last night until 11:30. The IV drip takes about 3 hours. Want to do it slow after the reaction on Monday. Todd Biel has been helping me push Robert over in the wheelchair. Sometimes the tunnels are long pushing uphill. He is a blessing. I made supper for 5 others in our kitchen last night. We had chicken and rice, green beans and tossed salad. Todd furnished the ice cream with all the toppings.They call me the "Betty Crocker" of the kitchen but Louise says that isn't true. She calles me Julia Childs... I don't compare to either but I guess some people don't cook.Darren & Renissa are going to court today to see if Miss Camrea will become Camrea Riley. Please keep them all in your prayers. Camrea deserves a loving family.Ryan is having some tests done in Wichita today. Some kind of kidney problems???? I'm anxious to hear from both of them. Always somthing to worry about.It snowed here last night, about 5 inches. Robert would love to have the moisture at home for the wheat.Better get back to his room, he was sleeping when I left but will be looking for me. I'll try and update this evening after we hopefull find out what is causing the infection.Love, Roxie
February 27, 2009 9:29 AM

Today has been a long day at the hospital. We started at 7 this morn and didn't get back to the Lodge until about 5.We did CT scan, Radiation, Radiation Dr appt and then infusion of meds for the infection.I did take a quick hour nap while he was taking his meds and when I went back, he was itching and bright red. I called the nurse in and he was alergic to Vanco. They called it the Red Syndrom. They gave him benedryl and kept him for another hour to make sure he was OK before turning us loose. They had him on two diffferent kinds of antibiotics. We were suppose to go back tonight at 9:00 p.m. for another round but after the reaction, they canceled it. Thank Goodness! He is worn out and up in the room sleeping. I took supper up to the room even though that is discouraged.We start back at it again in the morn with infusion @ 7:30. They said to plan on 3 hours to have it drip in. Long day again. Not sure where or what the infection is yet but they want to get a good start on it. Hopefully tomorrow we can talk to some Dr to find out results of the CT scan.Didn't make it to Ash Wednesday today, I guess the Good Lord knew we did our duty at the hospital.We did obey though and fast and eat salmon patties.Our friend Kathy went home today and we all had to cry. She was such a great friend. She left us some neat books to read. Wishing her the best on her breast cancer journey! She is so young and full of energy! She has a lot to live for and lots to do yet. She is a great touring partner. We have great memories of all that we did while she was here.Will keep you posted. Love, Roxie
February 25, 2009 7:14 PM

The chemo Dr just called and canceled Robert's radiation treatment because he has infection of some kind. We have an appt at 1:30 to see if they will admit him into the hospital or just do IV's as out patience. Keep us in your prayers. I'll update this as soon as I know something.Roxie
February 24, 2009 12:32 PM

No chemo or radiation until they find the reason for the infection.We will do blood work and IV antibiotic today and CT scan tomorrow morning to see if they can find out what is going on.Will update it tomorrow after we know more. Love, Roxie

Robert's fever broke during the night and he ate a good breakfast but is up in the room resting as we have appts @ 12:00, 1:00, 3:00 and then 4:00 if they put the chemo pump back on him. We will know the results of his blood work when we meet with the Doc.They have a Big Bell in the radiation department that people get to ring three times when it is their last treatment. It says:Ring OutRing this bellThree times well The toll to clearly sayMy treatments are doneIt's course has runAnd I'm on my way!Robert's last treament is suppose to be March 11th so I ask everyone to have their bells ready and please ring them 3 times to help us celebrate that this phase is over! I'll try and remind everyone on March 10th.Today is laundry day, we even have to do that chore up here. The machines are in the basement so I get plenty of walking in between that and the tunnels.........Love to everyone! Roxie
February 24, 2009 9:49 AM

We had a busy appt schedule today and when we got to have the chemo pump refilled Robert was chilling and running a fever so no chemo refilled. We will meet with the Dr tomorrow to see what the plan of action is. We came back to the Lodge and I put the electric blanket on him to keep him warm. He did eat some supper but wasn't very hungry. He is in the room in bed. I'll let you know what we find out tomorrow.Bev White wrote a nice note to us and also let us know that Jerry's name is on the Memorial Tree that is in the Lodge. I took a picture of it. It was nice she let us know so we could look it up while we were here.Robert received a John Deere quilt from a wonderful friend from home. He loves it and is being kept warm with your love and warmth. Thanks Friend!Thanks also to the friend that keeps reminding me about my birthday plus 5 months..... We celebrate the 22nd of every month! What a gal! The treats are wonderful!!!!!!!!! She will be that OLD someday!Keeping all of our sick friends in our thoughts and prayers. Karla, Janie, Galen and anyone else that needs the extra prayers. They do work. Love, Roxie and Robert
February 23, 2009 8:33 PM

We have a busy schedule this week.
We are doing a survey for the radiation department and we have meetings from 1:30 to 3:00 on Tues, Wed and Thur for this week and next along with our regular scheduled appts.
Yesterday we went to the Convent called Assissi Heights. It was beautiful and interesting.
Last night was the Big Band Bash and it was awsome music. They had a 5 piece Jazz band and they had so much energy. It was accordian, trumpet, trombone, drums and clarient. Robert really enjoyed it.
Went to Mass today and then Todd took us out to breakfast at Pannekoken. Robert took a nap and Todd, Kathy and I went to the Civic Center to the White Lippazane Stallions. It was fun.
Then tonight Kathy treated us all to supper at a place about 15 miles out of Rochester called The Fisherman's Inn. It was delicious food. I have been cooking for Todd and Kathy all week so they decided it was there turn.
They have both been really good friends. Kathy is from Texas and owns a hunting lodge and Todd is a farmer from So Dakota. Kathy will be leaving Wednesday and I will really miss her but Todd's wife is coming so that will be fun.
It's nice to have someone to do things with and Kathy says we have to have fun and not concentrate on the CANCER! She is so right!
Better get to bed as we have a heavy schedule of appts this week.
Congratulations to Cooper and Laura Berning on their wedding this weekend. Wish we could have been there. I know it was fun beautiful.
Hope to see you all in March sometime. Love and prayers,
Robert and Roxie

February 22, 2009 8:41 PM

It's Friday night so thought I'd better update everyone. We have been busy with Robert's appts and just the normal living. Yesterday I cleaned the room, did laundry and finally paid bills!!!! Robert napped during all of it. The chemo and radiation are making him more tired everyday.
Today after his appt we toured the Bells at the top of the Plummer building. Awsome!!! Took the elevator to the 15th floor and then had to climb several flights of stairs and then a spiral staircase to the top. Robert didn't think he was up to the climb but didn't want to miss out so going slow he made it. What a great experience. The guy who played them did a 30 minute concert. It was amazing to watch him. It is a dying art! We then got to walk around the balcony and view all of the downtown area of Rochester. Very COLD up there! Robert didn't do that part.
After lunch Robert went up to nap and me and two new friends did a walking tour of all the chapels in the Mayo area! Beautiful! What a great day it was. Then we came back to the Lodge and I made supper for Kathy, Todd, Robert & I. They are great friends.
Tomorrow we are planning on going to the Sister's convent and taking that tour. Robert and I have been out there to Mass and it is a beautiful church. I hope Robert will be able to go. Don't want to tire him out as we have free tickets to the Civic Center to the "Big Band Bash". Todd has agreed to take us in his car and then come back and pick us up in a heated car so Robert don't have to be out in the cold. He chills very easily.
Last evening, Kathy and I went to Meditation hour. The Chaplin was great. She was a lady that had been a Nun for 18 years and then broke away and went on to become an ordained minister. She is a chaplin for the Hospitals here. She was so interesting and it was just Kathy and I that attended so we had a great time. Her lesson was "Burdens and Blessings"! Wow!
That is the one thing I have learned through all of our trials in life that so many blessings come out of them. From Rob's broken neck to Robert's illnesses and every other trial that we have been through, your grow in your spirit. There is always a rainbow after every storm and you have to dance in the rain if you want to see the sunshine. We've done lots of dancing in the rain, but God has always been there to carry us.
After you have done everything you can do, God will do the rest!
Wishing you all a great weekend.
Love, Robert and Roxie

February 20, 2009 8:12 PM

We had a good day! Had radiation appt and then Todd, Robert, I and a Kathy, a new friend, went to Wabasha, Mn to the Bald Eagle Sancuary. Very nice. We ate at "Slippery's", it is where they filmed "Grumpy Old Men." I invited Kathy to go with us so I didn't have to go alone with two Grumpy Old Men! ha! The food was very good. Yes, I had FISH!The drive up there was beautiful and we took a different route back. Todd took us over the bridge so we could say we went to Wisconsin. It is just across the river. Saw some men out ice fishing. What a great experience!Tonight was Pot luck supper and then a group of Mennonites came to sing. Beautiful Harmony! I wanted to call someone on my phone to let them hear them. Very sweet girls. Two of them volunteer here at the Lodge a couple days a week. Thanks to the Biermann family and to Shaina, our goddaughter, for the surprise packages. We were the envy of the Lodge. Everyone thought it was just like Christmas. Lots of nice cards also. Everyday Robert looks forward to the mail. We are very tired tonight so tomorrow we will probably nap.Anxious to get home and see all the changes. Wind towers might be up and running, I hear Butch's Spirit's is open and that they tore down the old church on the corner. Thanks everyone for filling us in on the news. We miss the Leoti Standard!It's been a long day so will sign off. Please keep my neice and her husband in your prayers. Tom and Pam McCarty from Salt Lake. Tom's Mother died last night. Love to all, Roxie
February 17, 2009 8:39 PM

Sunday we attended Mass and then Robert napped in the afternoon and I walked to the Civic Center to a Big Home Show. It was fun to just have some "Roxie" time and be by myself and walk and meditate. The home show raffled off 4 playhouses.They were so cute. One was the Little Rascal's playhouse, A witch's house, a school house and a Victorian house. Some lucky child was happy when they won.Made Robert his favorite supper of fried chicken and all the trimmings. He was happy! Invited Todd Biel, another guy staying here at the Lodge.Monday Robert had early appt @ 8:00. Had a voice mail on our phone and was so surprised! Tracy Rickford was up in this area crop adjusting and stopped by to see us and take us out to lunch. Was so good to see someone from home! We gave him the tour of the Mayo Clinic and the Hope Lodge. He got to walk in the tunnels and see our daily routine! Lots of walking! Thanks Tracy for taking the time to see us. We really appreciated it.I came back to the Lodge and took a nap. The shingles are still hanging around and get into the party mood about the time I want to sleep. I had a rough night last night so tonight I might have to drug myself with pain meds to knock me out!Tomorrow after appts we are going to a Bald Eagle Sancuary about 40 miles from here with Todd, our friend. He had taken his family there last week and wants us to see it. It is the town where "Grumpy Old Men" was filmed. Should be a fun day trip. Then tomorrow night is pot luck supper and singers for entertainment. Wed night they will have a Magic show. Always something to keep you busy if you feel like doing it. The suppers are always delicious and they always have a drawing for another quilt! Maybe we will be lucky sometime. I made pumpkin rolls and Darren's favorite mac salad and we have left over corned beef so we are all set. Have a great week. Love, Roxie
February 16, 2009 8:56 PM

Happy Valentine's Day to All!We finally got to go to Mall of America! WOW is all I can say.It is overwhelming! Didn't do much shopping, just walked and around and looked!Robert took me to "Bubba Gumps" for lunch. It was fun, kinda like our lives at the moment! "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what your are going to get until you dive into it each day!" That's our life! Took some pictures so will show everyone when we get them developed.Yesterday morning, we woke up to crows fighting. It sounded like a war zone! Our car that was white looked like a Dalmation Dog. Crow do-do all over it. Reminded me of the Alfred Hickok movie "The Birds!" I've never seen so many crows in one place. All over the place!Please keep Renissa's babysitter and her family in your prayers. Renissa just called me to let me know that Penny's father in lawdied @ 4:14 today. He was diagnosed with cancer about a month ago. They did surgery in Topeka and then took him to MD Anderson in Houston. They didn't have a name for the cancer and had never seen anything like it before.It was the granddaughter's birthday today and I think Katie was 16. Our prayers go out to them.Our God is an awsome God and we are so thankful he has decided to give us one day at a time. We never know when he might call anyone of us.We love you. Love and prayers,Robert & Roxie
February 14, 2009 6:59 PM

Friday night 9:30 p.m.Another week down. Robert is still doing ok. Thank goodness.Today was a better day. I slept the best last night that I have slept since we got here, even with being in bed all day yesterday!Robert's appt was @ 12:45 and then I walked over and viewed the ice sculptures. They were fun to look at. Robert went back to nap.I went to Walmart again, $$$$$$$$ on groceries. I decided to treat myself for Valentine's day so I had a manicure. The first thing I have done for myself since we got here.If Robert feels up to it tomorrow, we might try again to go to Mall of America. I know it will be an exhausting day so we will see. Another couple from Michigan want to go with us if Janet is up to it. She has cervical cancer and they don't have a car here. Them and us went to the Canadian Honker tonight for a Valentine's supper.They had a live Jazz Band playing.My kids and I ate there last summer while we were here for Robert's surgery. Nice place and good food. Yes, kids, I had the same oh, same oh, vegetable beef soup and chicken salad sand. Dad celebrated and had Prime Rib. So glad he is still being able to have an appetite.Thanks to everyone for all the valentines and letters. We look forward to the mail everyday. Today was lots of bills!!!! Imagine that!!!My curfew is up so better get up to the room before the possee comes to get me or my phone rings.He doesn't realize how much time it takes to answer emails and update the blog. The computers are in the basement of this big house. Happy Valentine's Day to everyone.We love you All.............Robert & Roxie

02/12/09 @ 3:00 p.m.Just got back from seeing Ice scupltures. They are still working on them.I was sick this morning when I woke up and then took a 2 hr nap and then got up and walked with Robert over to the Plaza. I'm feeling a little better but haven't eaten anything since this morning. I thought Robert was suppose to be the sick one, but NO, it's me. He's getting a taste of what is like to be a caregiver.I'm ready to feel better.He's going to make his own supper. Euneice, an older lady that has pancreatic cancer made him stew for lunch while I was up in bed.Everyone looks out for everyone else.Todd Biel wants to take us to an bald eagle place sometime next week. He took his wife and girls today and said it was worth seeing.They are really an nice couple. She and the girls are going home to So. Dak tomorrow and she won't be back until Feb 28th. I told her I would cook for him while she is gone. He has good roasts that he needs to use up. What a deal!Thanks to everyone for the cards, valentines and letters. We appeciate it all. Love, Roxie

Had our first pot luck supper at the Hope Lodge tonight. Good food as always with all the different cooks. Meet lots of interesting people. A 90 year old lady makes quilts for the Lodge that she donates and one is given away every week at the pot luck supper.She was the guest of honor tonight. Tonight's quilt was red and white for Valentines Day. Needless to say we didn't win, but we have 5 more to go........Dr appt tomorrow with Radiology Dr to see how things are going. So far, so good, just tired.The Lodge has free tickets to several nice events that happen in town, so Feb 21, we have tickets to the "Big Band Bash" at the Civic Center. We can walk all the way there in the sky walks. Another couple will go with us if both Janet and Robert feel up to it.One day at a time.I've had a rough day today so will go up and try and relax but when I lay down, my shingles really give me fits. How long do these silly things last????????? Not FUN!Talk to ya later. Love, Roxie
February 10, 2009 7:57 PM

Dad got his chemo pump refilled this afternoon and also his blood work done. The blood work was good. Had radiation @ 9:45 this morn and that is the schedule for tomorrow again.
Have meet a lot of interesting people and they are all very nice.
The girls that made cookies with me last night went Prom dress shopping today and Morgan brought her dress in to show me. She is a beautiful girl. Her dress was royal blue and beautiful. She is very talkative and a sweetie. Her sister is Reilly and queit. Their Dad is here at the Lodge and their last name is Biel but they pronounce it BEAL. The wife is a teacher. Nice family. They live on a farm and raise cattle. He is only 55 and has prostrate cancer.
It was a little rainy today but the temps weren't bad. Lots of walking for Dad and it tires him out. We did do a tour of Mayo Clinic today. It was about an hour long and learned some things that we didn't know so that was interesting.
We have a little lady in our kitchen that is kinda bossy but I like her. she just wants to make sure everyone knows the ropes. She drives Dad nuts but she & I get along ok. You know how he doesn't like rules........ Imagine that!!!!!
Terry Smothers and her husband came back today. Her husband was the one that had surgery when Dad had to fly back and we meet her. They are almost done with treatments and will be leaving Thurs.
Lots of new people moved in over the weekend and today. Lots moved out Friday.
One girl is about 35 and has been here since Sept. Has 3 little boys at home. Ages 2,5 &7. She is hoping to get to go home this coming weekend to see them. Depends on her test results. She has luekemia. Makes 6 weeks look short.
The time really has gone by faster than I thought it would. My shingles are better in the day time when I'm up and walking but last night I was up every two hours with pain.
Dr Al called me in some more pain meds. He had them once himself so he said he knows what I'm going through.
Pam Weinmann had knee surgery last Fri and hopfully get to go home tomorrow from Great Bend. Had some problems today so had to spend an extra day in the hospital.
Better get up to the room, I'm sure my curfew is up........Love, Mom

Robert got sick this morning for about 1 1/2 hr and then he was OK.Sure glad it didn't last very long.Went to Mass at the Assissi Heights. It is a convent and a beautiful church. We would like to tour it sometime but it takes 1 1/2 to do it, so will have to see when Robert feels good enough to do it.Walked to the Civic Center to a flea market this afternoon. Left all the fleas there.Came back to the Lodge and two young girls helped me make heart sugar cookies. I felt like at home when Laura and Shae come out to bake. Helped my homesickness!Have meet some very nice people. I think this will make our long stay much more enjoyable.Still have the shingles, but maybe everyday they will get a little better. Thanks to everyone for keeping in touch. We love to hear from home. Love ya, Roxie

We got moved into the Hope Lodge and are in room # 320.
Our address is:
Robert Berning
% Hope Lodge
411 2nd St NW
Rochester, MN 55901
Robert made it through the first week, 5 to go.
Hopefully we can rest and relax tomorrow, nothing that we have to do. I'll keep you updated as we navigate ourselves around this place and let you know all about it. I'm tired tonight. Shingles still giving me fits. Roxie

February 6, 2009 8:22 PM

We got the call and we are moving over to the Lodge at 4:00. We will let you know what room we will be in. We are excited as we know there will be people to visit with that have the same problems as we do. They also have lots of activities. I'll update you after we have been there for awhile.Roxie

We should be moving to the Lodge sometime this weekend. We were # 4 on the list last night.The address is Hope Lodge411 2nd St NWRochester, MN 55901Jill, will you please send our mail. We probably have bills that need to be paid. Bummer!!!!!Robert's appt this morning is @ 10:15.We might take a shuttle tomorrow to Mall of American. We will see if we are moving or how we feel.This game is one day at a time.Love, Robert & Roxie

Sun is shinning here today and it is warmer. How warm? I don't know because I haven't been outside.Still hurting with the pain from the shingles. Robert's treatment was @ 8 this morn. Will be at 10:30 tomorrow. Never know the schedule.They have Mass @ 12:10 everyday at St John's church so we have been going. The music is always beautiful. Can't believe on weekdays they have so much participation.Hope all is going well at home.5 weeks to go. Love, Roxie

3 treatments down, 25 to go.We both took a nap this afternoon.The treatments are starting to tire Robert. I took pain meds for my shingles and it made me sleepy.They are very painful.It was -10 here today. BurrrrrrWe are #9 on the Lodge list. Maybe this weekend we will get in. We have come from #26. Love to all,Roxie

Robert got his chemo pump on yesterday and will be on 24/7.Had his second radiation treatment today.We have Dr appts on Wed with radiation Doc and on Mon with oncology Doc. They fill up his chemo bag with new drip every Mon.Radiation is very day. We never know our schedule. They make the appt every day after he is finished with treatment.I've been having back pain and thought I had pulled a muscle but started to itch last night and pulled up my shirt and I have shingles. Ouch! I call Dr Alpers and he got some meds called up to me. What a blessing to be from small town USA and the Doctors know your name and case and are truly concerned to take care of you. I was so thankful as it is awful to be so far away from home and be sick along with a hubby to take care of. I'll tell Robert about the idea of the heart tatoo. We'll let you know when we get home and maybe you can view it! ha!Thanks to everyone for keeping in touch. I look forward everyday to hearing from home. Love to you all, Love, Rox & Roberto
February 3, 2009 4:54 PM

We are going to Harmony, MN today and do a Amish tour before Robert starts treatments and doesn't feel like doing anything. It is a 2 1/2 hour tour with a guide driving our car. He will tell us about the history and stop and show us things.Sounds interesting. At the Lodge, they have crockpots and all kinds of cooking equipment and then several nights a week, different organizations bring in supper. They also have activities during the week. Anxious to get over there. Will let you know once we get there. Interesting people over there. One gal about age 30 has been there since Sept.She has three little kids at home, so makes 6 weeks look pretty short.Always something to count your blessings for.Have a good weekend and I'll stay in touch. Love ya all, Roxie
January 31, 2009 9:20 AM

I toured the Hope Lodge. We are # 26 on the waiting list. Hopefully it won't be to long before we get in.It is really nice and will make the time here more pleasant.Went to Walmart and got groceries so we don't have to eat every meal out. We have a refrig and microwave in the room so we will get by.Robert took a nap while I did the running around. The sun did come out and the temps improved a little. Love to all, Roxie

Very cold this morning. Robert has appointment @ 11:00 with oncologist.All the tests from yesterday went well, so we are on schedule to start chemo and radiation Monday @ 2:00.Yesterday was a long day. Appts from 9 to 4. We haven't moved the car since we got here. Walked in the tunnels or sky walks everywhere.We are on the waiting list for the Lodge so hope to get in there sometime next week. Saw a couple we know that is staying over there.He had the same surgery that Robert had and owned a John Deere store so they will have lots to talk about.Thanks to everyone for all the emails. I enjoy hearing from everyone. Love, Robert & Roxie

Diana, I'm wearing the Auntie Angel on my shoulder. I know it will take care of us. We have morning appts done and are getting ready to meet with the radiologist and then they will tatoo him for his radiation. Did you ever thing the favorite Uncle would get a tatoo? Better go, his appt is at 2:00 and he is waiting on me. thanks for your thoughts and prayers, Favorite Auntie Rox

Robert & Roxie made it to Rochester at 11:00 this morning. They are staying at the Brentwood Inn & Suites. It has the tunnels to the clinic which will be nice in the morning, they won't have to go outside. They hope to get into the Hope Lodge soon. Roxie says it looks really nice. It is really cold in Rochester, it was -7 this morning. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they begin a new journey tomorrow. As soon as I have their address at the Hope Lodge I will post it in case anyone would like to have it. Thanks again!

Robert & Roxie made it safely to Ames, IA last night, which is about 3 hours from Rochester. Thanks for all your prayers!

Just to let everyone know Robert & Roxie left this morning for Rochester. They will drive until they get tired then drive the rest of the way in in the morning. Please keep them in your prayers as they make this trip. I will keep you updated.

Hello to everyone! Christmas was a great time for all of us! We were all able to get together at Nana and Papa Berning's. What a wonderful time to get to spend with family!

I just wanted to update everyone on Robert's progress. He has finished his first round of Chemo, which went really well. He had to receive blood this week due to the fact that his white blood count was low but besides that he is doing really good. He was the old papa at Christmas that we all love. On the 26th Robert and Roxie will be making the trip back up to Rochester to do Radiation and Chemo. He will have both 5 days a week. They will be staying at the Hope house right next to the hospital. Since it is so cold in Minnesota they have underground walk ways so that you don't have to go outside in the cold. That will be nice for them. They will have to be in Rochester for 5 weeks. I will put their address up here as soon as I get it in case anyone would like to send a card. I will also be keeping the blog up to date so that everyone knows what is going on, it is also a good way for Robert and Roxie to keep in touch, I am sure that they will be checking the blog daily to see any new comments. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers please keep them coming they are working!

I would also like to say Happy Birthday to Camera Jean and Renissa! We all love you and hope that you have a wonderful Birthday!