DOWNEY RANCH, Inc.
Registered & Commercial Angus Cattle in Wamego, KS
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One day break

12/18/2014

29 Comments

 
    I can not say enough about the staff here.  They are flat out good.  I have NEVER felt rushed, or not paid attention to, or made to feel like I was a pain or slowing them down, or any of that.  We landed in the right place.  In fact, they decided today I needed one additional test, and it could not scheduled until 12/23, no way, no how.  That is until my scheduler (I call her the Queen) Trechena Leonard spent the better part of her morning working her magic and calling in whatever favors, and managed to move mountains to get me in tomorrow morning.  Then, she couldn't reach me by phone to deliver the update so she literally and physically tracked me way across campus to the radiation oncology department to tell me that I had the appointment.  I told her I loved her and Joe is sending her flowers.  This is the kind of people to whom we've entrusted our care.
    Now, the "One day break" part.  I am taking a break from the positive and semi-irreverent tone I intend to maintain during the course of this.  As you all might know, it was staging day.  I was hoping to be a Stage 1 or 2, but unfortunately, I'm a 3.  A T3N+ to be specific.  That means that The Little Bastard has escaped the confines of my bowel wall and is out into my abdomen.  I also have 3 lymph nodes affected.  But I do NOT have evidence of liver or lung involvement, so that is really good news.  I asked the surgeon today how long this might have been cooking.  Without hesitation, he answered, "Years."  Years, people.  Years of no symptoms.  Years of hanging around as a Stage 1, then a Stage 2.  Years.
    So, for my break, I will mope a bit and store up for the temper tantrum that will put the fear of God into The Little Bastard.  Then with cool nonchalance, I'll go right back to attacking him with all I've got.  There's a lot on my side, and to tell the truth, I think the docs are excited about the prospects.  I'm relatively young, healthy, have no symptoms, no complications, no previous treatment.  A clean slate, about as ready for this fight as you can be.  And have no doubt, this will be a fight.  Tomorrow.
    Until then, you all are wonderful.  You would not believe what you've done for me and Joe.  I click on here and FB and see your supportive prayers, thoughts and comments and feel it in my being.  Forgive me for not responding to each and every one of you as you deserve, but know that you're making a measurable difference.
    Tomorrow brings Inigo Montoya.  I promise.
29 Comments
Sharon Griswold
12/18/2014 01:25:24 pm

Sending all my Fezzik strength your way!

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Jody D.
12/18/2014 01:43:41 pm

So the Little Bastard is a Sneaky Little Bastard. Grrrrr. I am betting on you and your amazing health care team. Glad you are in such wonderful hands. Praying that the SLB realizes he has met his match and is preparing to get the hell out of Dodge.

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Vicki Swenson-Fager
12/18/2014 01:48:02 pm

I am so very sorry to hear about your fight with "the little bastard". I don't know you but work with Joe on ambulance calls. I am sending up lots of prayers for you and your family for strength. If you ever need anything let me know because I will do what I can for you and your family. Best of luck in the fight of your life and know you have a large group supporting you.

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Shannan
12/18/2014 02:20:44 pm

Barb and Joe,

We're right there with you. Doesn't the LB know he's messing with a Downey? You're just going to have to teach him a lesson.

Thanks for being there for us. Every time. We've come to depend on you, and we will continue to need you, Barb. So be sure and let people help you guys.

We're with you on this journey. We understand health challenges!!!!! :-)

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Crystal Blin
12/18/2014 02:24:11 pm

Be thinking of you Barb, the girls and Joe. You got this and we've got your back.

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Phyllis hager
12/18/2014 02:28:09 pm

Barb that little bast are does not know what he is up against a great fighting lady who is going to win 100% and he needs to move his ????? On the way out

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Julie Spiegel
12/18/2014 02:34:28 pm

Barb, I can't help but read your posts like a novel that I just can't seem to get enough of. You certainly have a way of writing that puts a smile on your readers' faces -- even upon reading the unfortunate news of today's staging. I'm not surprised at your positive attitude and I know that your attitude and "fight" will help you get through this rough patch in your life. Please know you have an army of friends and loved ones helping in your fight.

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Jodi
12/18/2014 02:41:36 pm

I'm just learning of this Little Bastard! To heck with him and where ever he sent his buddies. Sounds like you have a great team and a cheering squad- count me in on that one!!! Take your break my friend and come back tomorrow like no other. That Little Bastard doesn't have a clue who he's up against!

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Ken Woods
12/18/2014 02:52:42 pm

I can't wait for Inigo Montoya. Stage 3 is like ku defense they were all good football players at the high school level but they have never faced Barb Downey. Put the women and children to bed and whip the little bastard!

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Amy Flinn
12/18/2014 02:54:45 pm

Stay strong, friend. You have so many people praying for you. Now you know what you're dealing with and you can formulate a plan to move forward. You will overcome this! Sending you lots of love and positive energy.

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Peggy Schultz
12/18/2014 03:19:39 pm

Well, dang it ! I'm glad you are in the right place and they are getting you some answers but still sorry any of this is happening in the first place. At least you didn't have to shovel feed bunks this morning! ( I know you would much rather) I'm trying to follow your humor but I'm not near as good as you are at it. Hugs and prayers to you , Joe, and your girls...its tuff on all of you !!

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Tracy Capoun
12/18/2014 07:07:04 pm

I had to look up Inigo Montoya. Love it! One description has him as an expert in fencing...I'd say you are that. He has a bit of a drinking problem...maybe not so much that but we've got to appreciate a good wine once in awhile. And spends his time looking for the six-fingered man...aka LB. Some days a little break is needed though to regroup. If you, the girls or Joe need help on the ranch Curtis can go over anytime. Please let us know. Love and prayers, The Capouns

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Lea Ann Seiler
12/18/2014 09:33:51 pm

Love your updates! SLB has no idea whats about to hit him! ♡

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Bob and Carol
12/18/2014 09:43:26 pm

You'll beat this Barb, I have no doubt! But prayers never hurt, and that we can do for you! My nephew, 31, went to Houston, with cancer. Great place, he is now cancer free!

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James Christensen
12/18/2014 10:51:32 pm

Praying daily and sending lots of love your way. So pleased to hear about the excellent care. Might have to slip in a Princess Bride quote next time.

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Laniers
12/18/2014 10:55:18 pm

Keeping you and your family in our prayers and you fight this!

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Candi Martin
12/18/2014 11:21:32 pm

Prayers for all of you....so admire that "cowgirl grit"!🙏👍

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Melissa Gier link
12/18/2014 11:48:18 pm

You're allowed a break, Barb. And just so you know, I'm having a hard time seeing the words as I type them right now. My heart is so heavy that you're going thru this terrible battle! But...our God is bigger than the Boogie Man (in the words of the Veggie Tales song my grandson sings) and He's certainly bigger than that Little Bastard! I'm praying for you each and every day. Go with God, my friend!

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Jaclyn Wilson
12/18/2014 11:52:21 pm

Keep staying positive! Thinking of you guys daily!

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Connie Kays
12/19/2014 01:24:46 am

We are pulling for you....lots of prayers sending your way.

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Angie Toews
12/19/2014 01:25:15 am

Barb,
Duane and I are sending prayers your way. I have never met you but feel like i know you so well cause Duane raves about how awesome you are and from him this is high praise cause I hardly hear about people on the road and he was really disappointed that he couldn't introduce me to you at the Wichita Farm show. We will meet someday until then just know we are both on your side rooting for you to kick this "little bastards" ass.
Angie Toews

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Miranda Reiman
12/19/2014 01:50:37 am

Barb, Joe & family-- Been thinking of you since I heard the news. I'm sending prayers from Nebraska! --Miranda

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Susan Smith Warner
12/19/2014 03:17:10 am

Barb,
I am so mad at that little bastard, but for some strange reason I picture him donning the garb of a gondolier; I have no idea why. How dare this little bastard invade our General Lee Available. You are in the driver's seat, my friend; just as you were as we plowed through huge piles of leaves in the Downey mobile in Midland. Plow through this little bastard, catch him on fire, much like the Downey mobile in the last pile of leaves, and watch him burn. God will fan the flames and that little bastard won't know what hit him, much like the Downey mobile. :-)

Prayers are being sent up for you and your family. WIO!

PS. I do remember that locker incident! So much fun.

Love, Sue Smith Warner aka Captain Krunch

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Janna
12/19/2014 03:24:10 am

Barb - Your fight & determination is no match for the little bastard! Keep on, keeping on & so many thoughts and prayers for you & the crew.

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Hallie Hasel
12/19/2014 04:43:37 am

Barb, you have an uncanny ability to make one laugh and cry simultaneously. God bless you! As new residents of Wimberley, TX, our home is yours. Anytime you or the family need a brief Houston escape...come on over! Much love to you and yours.

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Nancy Downey
12/19/2014 05:45:47 am

Seriously? You two will pull anything for an impromptu get away to the tropics. Meanwhile back in snowy Kansas...... you are in our constant thoughts and prayers. By this time next year you will be waving at the little bastards tail lights.

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Linda Coon
12/21/2014 01:20:33 am

Praying for you, your family and all involved in your care, Barb.

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Brian Wilborn
12/23/2014 05:34:38 am

Barb, May God bless you and your family on this Christmas. It is refreshing to read that you still have your sense of humor and feistiness. Keep your spirits up and kicks his butt! Maybe a Star beer would slow him down.

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Bill Wood
12/26/2014 07:26:01 am

Barb,

I'm sorry to find out about this fight, but I know you will be strong and courageous! Your keeping healthy and in shape will benefit you a great deal. Your faith and the prayers of family and friends will be provide you encouragement and strength. Praying for your complete recovery and healing.

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    Barb Downey

    On Dec. 5, 2014, I was diagnosed with rectal cancer. And that's where we start. If you're here for the first time, you'll have to read from the bottom (no pun intended!) up. Go to Dec 2014 and scroll to the bottom of the page...

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Downey Ranch, Inc.
Joe Carpenter & Barb Downey
37929 Wabaunsee Rd.
Wamego, KS  66547

(785) 456-8160 - Ranch
(785) 556-8160 - Barb mobile
(785) 556-8161 - Joe mobile


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