October 1 Update

Thank you God, thank you family and all our friends!

Your prayers have made a huge difference in Gene's cancer. Gene has been in remission for 8 weeks now, and Dr. Ramaekers said he can't explain it. I said, I can: It is all the prayers from everyone!!!

I will never underestimate the power of prayer again!!!

It almost feels like this has all been a bad dream, but I know it is real. Gene goes back on the 14th for another scan, labs and doctor appointment. Of course, this makes me worry even more as it has been such a wonderful 8 weeks.

Gene is feeling much better, of course – not taking chemo makes a big difference. He still gets very tired, but I know that goes along with all his treatments.

We have been so fortunate to have such wonderful family and friends, and our AQHA Family is always checking on us. This means so much to both of us. Speaking of AQHA ...

We just returned from a wonderful vacation!

We were so fortunate to be able to go to the Paws Up resort for the American Quarter Horse Association Foundation. This is the most fabulous resort we have ever been to. Paws Up is owned by a wonderful couple, Nadine and David Epson, who are wonderful supporter of the American Quarter Horse.

Their resort is located 45 miles from Missoula near Greenough. The moment you drive on to the ranch you know you are in a special place. We shared a beautiful home with Jim and Mavis Jennings and Chris Sitz. Actually, it was about 3,500 square feet with a huge fireplace, big bedroom suites ... and we had the most sophisticated shower ever! It was a 2-person shower with all the bells and whistles, but we had to read the instructions to operate it. We opened the windows in our huge master room, to view the beautiful Montana mountains.

It was even more special, as 34 AQHA supporters were there also, many we knew previously but made many new friends. Every day was special. Gene and I went on a trail ride Friday morning and then an amazing ATV ride through the beautiful countryside. Every evening was a special night with great gourmet food and entertainment. ... We could get used to this lifestyle.

Needless to say, all good things have to come to an end and coming home took an extra day as our flight out of Denver was cancelled, but we finally made it home.

Thank you again for all your support!

Barbara