From: Timko, Terry M
Sent: Tuesday, May 23, 2017 1:36 PM
Subject: Maura Update May 23rd

Dear Family and Friends,

It has been since January that I sent out one of these updates, primarily because there was very little to report and life got busy with work, my father’s stroke, Maura’s care, the boys, …  Anyway, we started back on the clinical trial drug plus chemo in Cincinnati early January.  January, Feb & March were great.  We even snuck in a 5 day cruise and started a couples group in our home.  But for the past 2 months Maura has been having increasing neurological symptoms not unlike what she experience with treatment related edema back in the fall.  Unfortunately, Maura’s most recent MRI showed that her symptoms were related to tumor growth and not a side effect of the treatments.  We have confirmed these findings and there is no other viable avenue of treatment. The doctors feel she has a few months left during which time her symptoms (primarily memory, fatigue and mobility issues which leads to some disorientation) will slowly increase.

We know this is hard news for those who care for her, and will impact people in different ways.  While we are very sad and still praying for a miracle, we are still doing remarkable well given the news.  Maura is not scared.  This sounds strange to many, but we know, have always know beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the Lord has saved us from death and she will be with Him and that is good.  I will miss her terribly, as will many of you, but am blessed beyond measure to have her as my best friend and wife.

Her quality of life is still high, she is not in any pain, or having seizures, changes in personality, …  While she is really slowing down, she got to spend some quality time this past week with Daniel before he headed to LA – he starts work at Blizzard today and we are very proud - went to Josh graduation last week – again very proud - and Ethan’s swim meet this past weekend.

I want to allow people the chance to visit before her condition worsens without over whelming her.  I also understand if it is too hard.  Txt me (with your name – don’t assume I have you # in my phone) if you would like to stop by.

A lot of people have been asking what we need.  I really don’t know yet.  I suspect this will get hard, a flurry, as the weeks go on, so maybe some meals and help around the house.  Maybe visit her mom if you know her as this is very confusing to her.

I do have an ask for those of you that have had the pleasure of knowing Maura well.  Over the months people have been sharing stories of Maura with me, how she impacted their life.  I would like to collect these as a tribute to and an encouragement for her.  If you have a story please email it to me.

Thanks.  That is it for now.  Thank you for your great support.  I will share more details as they are available.

p.s. pic of Maura the boys and I at Cactus Pear for our 25^th Anniversary in April:

Terry