Andy's Surgery was scheduled for early this morning, so

[EFerrari]

he should be in surgery now if everything went according to plan. I didn't get any calls this time, and his friends on the ground are getting ready to take their shifts at the hospital.

Let's send Andy and Termite some love and support and wishes because they need them right about now.

:loveya:

Thank you, Skinner, for letting me post this thread.

[laylah]

1. Thanks for the heads up.

I am sending love, prayers, and white light his way.

Jenn

[wakeme2008]

2. Go Andy Go

:grouphug:

[annabanana]

3. all prayers and good vibes

for an easy and uneventful surgery,
and a smooth, quick recovery...

[jojo54]

4. He'll pull through just fine...

he's got the good vibes and karma from all of us here at DU.

Sending well wishes, Andy.

[greatauntoftriplets]

5. Love to Andy.....

We will see you through this. Thank heavens it is finally happening.

And thanks to Skinner for this thread. sfexpat200 and I are going to bookmark it so Andy can see it later.

[KaryninMiami]

23. Good idea- he'll be happy to see this when he wakes up!

We spoke last night and he was "enjoying" his jello (clear liquids for 24 hours are not all that fun!). I assume he's on his way now to the O.R.

Let's all send him love and prayers throughout the day. I know i will!

[DistressedAmerican]

6. I Hope Everything Goes Great! Get Well Andy!

[bettyellen]

7. sending good vibes to andy......

glad he will get to put this all behind him soon.
thank you beth.

[Spazito]

8. Get well quickly, Andy

My thoughts are with you and Termite.

[understandinglife]

9. Nominated for Andy.

And, thank you Skinner for allowing the thread.

Peace.


VOTER VERIFIED, PAPER BALLOT - Andy Stephenson

[in_cog_ni_to]

10. You're in my thoughts, Andy!

Sending positive vibes your way! :hug:

[dzika]

11. We are all with you, Buddy!!!

[EFerrari]

12. I'm putting the most calming image I have in your thread, Andy

She's never ever let me down and she's my 10 mg Valium -- which I would like to have right now because we're clean out of "clear liquids."



:hi:

[Jeanette in FL]

13. Lots of Love

And prayers being sent Andy's way. Everything will be just fine. Thanks for keeping us posted.

[drdon326]

14. Good karma your way Andy.

[merh]

15. We are sending you love & all good things Andy.

:loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya:

Thanks Skinner. :hi:

[fooj]

163. One word...

ENCHILADAS!!!! :pals:

[merh]

185. ((((((((((((((( fooj )))))))))))))))))))))))

:yourock:

:hug:

[savannahana]

228. another word

:party::pals: MARGARITAS!!!! :pals: :party:

:hug: fooj :hug:

[MissHoneychurch]

16. My thoughts are with him

wishing him the best.

[EFerrari]

17. Those are great, MissHoneyChurch. I have seven pairs of

eyes asking me why breakfast was served so early today. :)

[DancingBear]

18. Sending all things positive to you, Andy

We look to see you up, about, and fighting again in a very short while.

Until then, rest well and be thankful this ordeal is finally over.

[wicket]

19. Praying for Andy

:loveya:

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

20. Sending lots of love and healing thoughts to Andy! Thanks

sfexpat for the update and Skinner for allowing her to post this!

[In_The_Wind]

21. Wishing You the very best ~ Andy!

:hug:

[Sydnie]

22. Sending healing thoughts your way Andy!

Hoping you sail through the surgery and recovery very easily! :hug:

[bear425]

24. sfexpat2000, Thanks for letting us know. Andy, please get well soon!

I have a good feeling everything will be fine. :hug:

[bunny planet]

25. Get well Andy, we love you.

:)

[EFerrari]

26. A friend in Old Europe sent this to me this morning, apparently

for this thread:

VATICAN CITY In a turn of events that stunned Vatican
officials, U.S. President George W. Bush has been named
to succeed John Paul II as the next leader of the Roman
Catholic Church. For the first time in history --and unknown
to the fawning media-- the College of Cardinals employed
electronic voting machines to select the next Supreme
Pontiff. Bush won by a margin of 2,528 votes, despite the
fact that only 115 Cardinals took part in the process.
The machines, which were last used in Ohio for the 2004
presidential election, also registered 27 votes for
Democratic candidate John Kerry.

"It's a miracle!" cried Kenneth Blackwell, Ohio's Secretary
of State, gubernatorial candidate and unofficial spokesperson
for voting machine manufacturer Diebold Corporation.
"This result vindicates our use of Diebold machines last November.
They work just as they are supposed to every time. They
delivered the desired vote in Ohio and now they've done
so in the Vatican. God has spoken."

Supporters of Panzerkardinal Joseph Ratzinger, whom initial
reports had leading by a comfortable margin in the voting,
demanded a recount. But Blackwell said the voting machines,
which had been modified to emit a plume of white smoke
when a plurality was reached, are unable to produce a paper
audit trail, rendering a recount impossible. "Herr Ratzinger
should return the ring. Mr. Bush is the duly elected pope!"

When informed of his victory, President Bush expressed
surprise. "I was not aware I was running for the popecy,"
he said. "I wish people would tell me these things."
However, he added "I am impregnated with
humblidity, and would be honored and privileged to serve as
Supreme Pontoon for the rest of my natural life, or until I die,
whichever comes first."

"This dual role for Mr. Bush can only help the GOP," intoned
House Majority Leader Tom DeLay. "Having a president who
is infallible will make it impossible for our Democratic opponents
to deny that God approves of our antediluvian agenda."
The president/pope is expected to adopt an appropriate name
for his reign on the throne of St. Peter. Unnamed sources
close to Bush say even money in White House circles is on
the name, Pope Clement VI, in honor of Clement V, the 14th
century pope who gave away the Church's wealth to his
relatives, leaving a bare treasury.

[GCP]

35. That's funny - I'm sending it around

Good luck and speedy recovery to Andy :hi:

[meganmonkey]

27. We love you Andy!

There is so much prayer and support and good thoughts coming to you from across the country right now. Can't wait to see you out there busting black-box balls again!

:grouphug:

:loveya:

[expatriate]

28. Thinking of you, Andy.

Get better quick!

[Tesla]

30. God Bless You

All the best!!!

[mogster]

29. Good luck, Andy

Soon it will be over, and you'll be on your way back to good health :-)
Yay! This is such good news!

[Debbi801]

31. Andy, you're in my thoughts and prayers this morning...

Termite, too.

:pals:

:hug:

Debbi (and the rest of the gang)

[tsuki]

32. I shall be thinking of you Andy. Best of Luck.

[supernova]

33. Prayers for a healthy outcome, Andy

You have all my prayers for a good outcome and a thorough recovery.

[MadisonProgressive]

34. Sending good Karma to Andy...

OHMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM...

[bobthedrummer]

36. Andy's going to be fine.

:grouphug:

[NoPasaran]

37. Good vibes to you Andy

Get well soon, friend.

[greatauntoftriplets]

38. No voicemail message from Andy when I got to the office.

:)

Sssshhhhh, don't tell the evil supervisor, but I don't particularly feel like working today.

[EFerrari]

45. Our lips are sealed!

:hi:

[greatauntoftriplets]

92. Thanks!

:hi:

[Susang]

124. I'm not really working

So I won't say a word. ;-)

[greatauntoftriplets]

159. The evil supervisor is leaving soon.....

So I can give way to my angst and not look like I am concentrating on what I am supposed to be doing.

[coffeenap]

39. Love and healing to Andy--thanks Skinner! nt

[Lisa0825]

40. Good vibes to Andy and termite! (nt)

[Tsiyu]

41. Hope all goes well today

and Andy is as good as new when it's all over :hi:

[Justpat]

42. Sending prayers and good thoughts.

[goodboy]

43. We love ya man! See you soon! (nt)

[LuPeRcALiO]

44. best wishes for a speedy recovery

thanks for posting this

[Generic Other]

46. Will be thinking of him and sending positive energy

Thanks for keeping us posted Beth.

[mopinko]

47. hang tight andy

we need you. :grouphug: :toast:

[lonestarnot]

48. Still praying Andy! Hang tight!

[Catherine Vincent]

49. Thinking of you Andy....

Sending good vibes your way.:loveya:
:grouphug:

[VelmaD]

50. I'm glad Skinner let you post this...

after a couple of threads got locked last night.

I hate sitting around and waiting to hear how it went. :hug:

I talked to Termite this morning and he seemed to be holding up ok...just wishing for news on how it was going.

Everybody send out good vibes. :grouphug:

[EFerrari]

51. Kick

:kick: for Andy and Termite

[Catherine Vincent]

52. Will someone brief us in this thread on Andy's recovery?

[EFerrari]

55. I will let the thread know when Andy is out of surgery and

resting.

Right now, I'm inputting some email addys from donors off of DU, so I can let them know our good news.

:toast:

[Catherine Vincent]

58. Okay, thanks!

You're a true friend!:-)

[Horse with no Name]

90. Remind everyone this surgery can take up to 9 hours and

not to get impatient.
Hugssss and sending love and healing wishes to Andy.

[StaggerLee]

53. Thanks for the update

Here's to a quick and comfortable recovery for Andy!

:toast:

[merh]

54. kick

:hug: for Andy

[merh]

62. ...

:hug:

[merh]

96. ...

:hug: :loveya: :hug:

[earth mom]

56. Sending Good Vibes! Get Well Soon Andy!

:grouphug:

[Moosepoop]

57. More love, prayers, and white light

Get well soon, Andy!!!

[katinmn]

59. Thank goodness. He's been waiting a long time.

I pray all goes well. Please continue to keep us posted!

[WilliamPitt]

60. I talked to him yesterday, he sounded ready

Scared, but ready.

[VelmaD]

75. That pretty much sums it up...

He and I talked for a very long time last night. About how scared he was...but a lot of just yacking about nothing. We're southern...we do that. :) I think he needed the distraction. Anyway...

I have to tell a great Andy story from last night. We were just chattering away about nothing much and I got to telling him about my nephew. He did chores for an allowance for the very first time this week and was really excited about the dollar he got. I was telling Andy how much my nephew loves dollar bills because he can take them to the dollar store and do the math really easy to buy himself things with his own money. His grandparents and relatives in other states are forever sending him little stacks of dollar bills. So one of the last things Andy did last night before he went to bed was put a couple of dollar bills in an envelope with a little note to my nephew. He didn't have to do that. But he's such a sweetie pie and he thought it would make my nephew happy. Andy is a wonderful person. :)

He is going to be fine. The universe just can't possibly work any other way. :)

[greatauntoftriplets]

86. Happy to hear you had a good conversation.

When I talked to him yesterday afternoon, he badly needed distraction from thoughts of food and how hungry he was.

[MuseRider]

109. That is a wonderful story

in so many ways. Dear Andy, I would never have thought he would do anything different and I don't even really know Andy.

Thanks for sharing that.

The world still feels right so I guess so far so good.

[LeahD]

166. What a beautiful gesture

to think of someone else the night before a serious surgery.

Wishing Andy a speedy recovery and some well-deserved peace of mind.

[WeHoldTheseTruths]

270. Just a note to say

I clicked it, dammit. And after reading it, somehow navigated my way back here to say thank you for all you do. I wasn't aware of the flames and BS you report about (little time on internet lately), thank goodness for that. Andy is fortunate to have you among his friends and we are fortunate to have you on the side of truth and justice. Besides for having a talent for writing well you work hard. And I have to say THANK YOU.

Actually, I'm thankful for the whole damn 'family' here; just thought Mr. Pitt deserved a special digital hug for dealing with so much crap on this and doing it well :) God bless us every one.

[johnaries]

61. Hang in there, Andy. We're pulling for you!

[sojourner]

63. just chiming in to add my own energy and good wishes!

[lala_rawraw]

64. is this thread going to be locked as well?

Or are we now allowed to discuss our friend who is in surgery?

[merh]

65. lala

Notice in sfexpat's OP, she was given permission to post this thread.

It will not be locked and posts won't be deleted if we remain civil to each other.

This thread is to show Andy the support of DU. Hugs to Andy and thanks to Skinner.

Hugs and peace to you lala. :hug:

[lala_rawraw]

66. Thanks, sorry...

I am worried and anxious:(

[EFerrari]

69. lala, today is a great day.

You watch. :)

And, here's something for you and all your help :hug:

[merh]

71. I know lala

many of us share the same feelings. Think positive thoughts and send Andy your positive vibes. Hugs to you lala, I know the entire experience has been hard on you. :hug:

Put the negative aside. Relax and think good thoughts. Evil maass will be removed and rendered to ashes in the hospital incinerator before too long. Let the healing of Andy and our hearts begin! :pals: :hug:

[savannahana]

229. i've been thinking about you, lady

hoping you are feeling better now (5:10 pm)
in every respect!

wishing you health, strength, & peace of mind
with thanks for all the work you do

:hug: lala_rawraw :hug:

[sojourner]

72. allowed looks like!!

Thanks Skinner!

(I think it had to do with a certain situation that ought not be mentioned here)

[ultraist]

67. Wishing you the best Andy!

[babylonsister]

68. My head and heart are

with Andy this a.m. Thanks, sfexpat2000 for the info.

[Misunderestimator]

70. That's wonderful news.

and all my good wishes for a speedy and successful surgery and recovery for Andy!

Thanks for the update.

[bluedonkey]

73. We all wish

you the best.

[goodboy]

74. They are halfway through the surgery, they say he's doing fine, it'll

be another two hours or so before they're finished. They started a little late, the incision was made at 830am.

on edit: I got this from Termite. He said he'd call me as soon as they find out more info

[merh]

78. thank you for the update goodboy!

:hi:

[goodboy]

79. You're welcome...I'll do my best to keep everyone informed! (nt)

[merh]

80. please do

:hug:

[EFerrari]

84. merh, can you put the ripple effect on this thread? n/t

[merh]

93. ((((((((( Ripple Effect ))))))))))

ripple effect: NOUN: A gradually spreading effect or influence:

image
of water, a brightness
not gold, not silver,
rippling
as if with laughter.
~ Denise Levertov ~



The pure serene of memory in one man,—
A ripple widening from a single stone
Winding around the waters of the world.
~Theodore Roethke ~

The ripple effect of DU is tremendous. Each one of us that stone that is tossed into the pond, each one of us tossing stones into the pond that is DU. We come here to learn, to share, to vent and to encourage and our actions, our posts, our arguments and our agreements ripple out and touch each other just as we are touched by the ripples of others.

We are a grassroots community made up of people that believe in some basic principles -- Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We see our world as precious and we see how frail it is. We recognize that we cannot change the world on our own; we know that there is strength in numbers and we each try our best to improve our corner of the world. We strive for acceptance, not just of our ideals and ourselves, but also for others and their values and their views.

We long for the nation we once knew, one that was the model of democracy for all others to follow and aspire to be like. In these last few years we have seen forces that seem beyond our control warp and distort everything we have held dear. We have been told that we are the minority and they have used our patriotism as a weapon against us and they have battered us like an abusive spouse, telling us with each blow to our liberties “if you love me, you will take it, I abuse you because I love you and I know what is best for you.” But we don’t believe them. We know it is about control and not love. It is about power and not justice. So we come here to remind each other and ourselves that we are not alone, that we are not the minority. We gather strength from each other and we share ideas. Because of the ripples we make in the pond, because of the ripples that touch us, we are willing to stand up and call them on their lies, we are armed with the truth. For we know what true love of country is and we know we are patriots.

We, the members of the grassroots community of DU, have made a difference and we will continue to do so. In January, we shut down congress’ telephones as we flooded the switchboards with calls and faxes and emails demanding someone stand with Conyers and Tubb-Jackson to oppose the certification of the Ohio votes. No, we didn’t change the outcome, but we made them hear us and we made them take notice. Our ripples were felt.

We must continue to do, to try, to share and to encourage. We must continue to reach out to each other and to reach for the stars. To not try is to be complicit in their crimes; to not try is to enable their evil, to encourage their corruption. We must continue to toss the stones into the ponds, we must continue to allow the ripples formed to carry us beyond their myths and beyond ourselves.

We have made a difference. In a week’s time we have raised almost $35,000 to help a member of our community afford surgery necessary to save his life. We have pinched our pennies, given what we can and extended our hands and our love, our prayers and our positive energies to one of our own.

As we reach out to help one man, as we unite to help Andy, our single efforts have had a ripple effect that we never expected, creating ripples that we can never count. The grassroots effort has been strengthened, the DU community united and our love has been multiplied a hundred times over. Our faith in humanity has been restored, our belief in each other and ourselves renewed, as we reach out to help someone we love. With laughter and determination, with humor and wit, we have reached out to help a friend and we will attain our goal. For we know that with faith and love (and laughter), all things are possible.

Our efforts continue and we continue to throw our stones into the ponds, hoping our ripples will join together to form the waves of relief so necessary. Not just for Andy but for our nation, for justice, for election reform, for health care, for civil rights for all, for all of the causes we each hold so dear, our environment, our freedoms, our children, our future and for peace.

I stand united with you all, I am proud to be a member of this community. Your ripples have touched me in ways that I will never adequately be able to express and your ripples have given me the courage to toss my own stones into the pond, to cause more ripples, to try to make a difference, to try to save my corner of the world.

Bless you all . . .


:patriot: :loveya: :hug: I DU Believe! :hug: :loveya: :patriot:


(((((((((((((((((((((((Ripple Effect)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

[savannahana]

215. wow, it's *great * to see this here again! :-)

still as beautiful and moving and true as the first time we read it

:grouphug: merh :grouphug:

:patriot: :loveya: :hug: I DU Believe! :hug: :loveya: :patriot:

(((((((((((((((((((((((((Ripple Effect))))))))))))))))))))))))))

[merh]

259. Thank you DU!

:yourock: DUERS :yourock:

:grouphug: :hug: :loveya: :party: :patriot: :grouphug: :hug: :loveya: :party: :patriot:

[valis]

104. Here is another one

(((((((
(( ((( (((((((
(( ((( (( ((( (((((((
(( ((( (( ((( ((((((( ((( ((((

[savannahana]

211. executive wise woman

:hug:beth:hug:

for everything :toast:

[EFerrari]

83. Thanks, goodboy!

:)

[goodboy]

88. You're welcome!

[dogday]

113. A Wish and A Prayer

Here is wishing and praying that all goes well with you and you will be up and around soon. God Bless You Andy....

[AmBlue]

76. Best wishes and godspeed

For a true American hero..... who has a lot more hero-ing yet to do. We can't wait til you're back with us, Andy. Take it easy, brother.

[cry baby]

77. Hope things go well!!

Hang in there, you two - maybe the worst is just about over.:grouphug:

[Cassandra]

81. Love and light to Andy

:loveya: :grouphug:

[hedda_foil]

82. We're all sending you lots of love and white light, Andy!

Remember how much we all love you. And get well fast because we need to be at our conference on the 11th!

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

85. All the best to Andy!

[progressivebydesign]

87. Thinking of Andy.. sending good thoughts. n/t

[EFerrari]

89. Folks, could we get this voted up? I don't want to make a big fuss

but it would be nice if people could see it easily on the G Page.

thanks!
Beth

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

94. Nominted earlier! Gentle push...... n/t

[greatauntoftriplets]

98. It's on the Greatest page!

16 votes.

:D

[alfredo]

91. kicking this because

not everyone goes to the greatest page.

[TBreeze]

95. You're in my thoughts Andy

[bleever]

97. White light for you, Andy, removing all obstacles.

[Nothing Without Hope]

99. Love, healing and comfort to Andy and Termite - Recommended

[In_The_Wind]

100. nominated

[lumberingbear]

101. Love and good vibes Andy!

[enigmatic]

102. Good vibes, Andy

You'll be fine, my friend:)

[troubleinwinter]

103. Woohoo! A happy day!

Happy day, happy day!!! Today is the day Andy starts healing and the way to WELLNESS!!!!!!!

I appreciate, from the bottom of my heart, EVERYONE who has helped make this happy day arrive!!!!

Thanks to all, and love to Andy!!!

[spuddonna]

105. You are in our prayers...

Get well soon from all your supporters here in Kirkland, WA!! :)

[Janice325]

106. Thanks for the update!

I'm sending positive, healing vibes Andy's way.
You take care, Andy. We're all thinking about you.
Thanks to everyone for the wonderful posts.
Thanks a bunch, Skinner.

[mzmolly]

107. Praying and pulling for you Andy!!!

:hi:

[Debbi801]

108. Keeping near the top for Andy.

:-)

[smartvoter]

110. Thanks for the update, and kick!!! nt

[havocmom]

111. Sending good energy for good healing and health

and glad for any updates.

Keep it kicked :kick:

[benburch]

112. This looks like it ought to be a lengthy surgery...

Given the amount of dissection that needs to be done. So we will not likely hear until mid-afternoon.

Best of luck, Andy!!!

[EFerrari]

118. That's right. We'll get some news later this after noon.

:kick:

[elehhhhna]

114. Prayers for Andy from an agnostic. Can't hurt--might help!

[understandinglife]

115. ((((((((( Ripple Effect )))))))))) --- now marquee'd!! Thank you, valis!!

Thank you merh! Every time I see ((((((((( Ripple Effect )))))))))) I think of Andy and this wonderful community who rallied to support him.

Peace.

[valis]

117. Double Ripple!

(((((((
(( ((( (((((((
(( ((( (( ((( (((((((
(( ((( (( ((( ((((((( ((( ((((

[merh]

120. I love it!!! How do you do that?

Please teach me - I love learning new things!!! :bounce:

[EFerrari]

121. Where is our graphic ?

I need the pitchur!

[merh]

125. You looking for a pitchur?

:shrug:

[merh]

135. Or is this what you meant?

:shrug:

[merh]

160. Whooops!

I should have given you the optimistic pitchers!



Vitamin C and half full or better! :patriot:

To good health and small victories! :toast:

[valis]

122. You have to use the "marquee" tag...

{ marquee behavior=alternate}HELLO! {/marquee }

but replace the { and } with square brackets

HELLO!

[merh]

128. Cool let me try.

(((((((((((((((ripple effect ))))))))))))))))


))))))))))))))repeal the evil (((((((((((((((

[merh]

131. Thank you so much!

I love it!! :hi:

I hope I don't drive others crazy using it, but I like to play with new toys when I get them! :toast:

[troubleinwinter]

138. Fun with a rubber pea while sitting in the waiting room!

:bounce:

[EFerrari]

141. He's moving to the William Tell Overture!

:rofl:

[valis]

151. LOL!! I unleashed a monster!!!

:)

[savannahana]

232. rubber pea tango on three pitchas

of margaritas

'r sumthin' :smoke: :toast: :party:

:rofl: TIW's ~rubber pea~ :rofl:


edit: 1st typed :rolf: for :rofl:

no margaritas here, i sware, still :donut:

:silly: :bounce:

[merh]

142. I'm getting sea sick with that one!

LOL :rofl:

Hi trouble!!! :hi: So good to see you! :hug:
Waiting and playing - sounds like a plan!!

I love it!! :hi:

[Tesla]

263. Let me try

Bush sucks


I like it it worked for me!!!

[valis]

156. LOL! you all rock!

[Janice325]

116. Kicking for Andy

while patiently waiting for updates.

[EFerrari]

119. Welcome to DU, Janice. It's a complicated procedure.

We won't have news until later this afternoon. Hanging in with you.

:)

Beth

[Misskittycat]

123. I'm thinking about you, Andy. n/t

[Susang]

126. Best of luck, Andy!

Hope you get all the best meds! ;-)

[Coexist]

129. kicking with hope for good news soon!

[Marnieworld]

127. Kicking for Andy!

Love and light my brother.

[deadparrot]

130. Best wishes!

Good luck. :)

[faithnotgreed]

132. prayers for andy

and everyone going through hardships

[Janice325]

133. Another kickety kick

More positive vibes for Andy!!!

[hlthe2b]

134. Lots of wonderful thoughts, prayers, wishes going your way, Andy

Feeling enveloped by all that good will? I sure hope so. All the very best, my friend.

[WilliamPitt]

136. Any word yet?

[goodboy]

137. I just tried to call Ted. No answer. I talked to him about two hours

ago and he said they were about halfway done, and Andy was doing fine.

I'll let you know as soon as I know something.

[EFerrari]

140. Know something, I can wait. He's in the best possible hands.

:)

[im10ashus]

143. Agreed!

Kicked!

:kick:

[goodboy]

139. 25 minutes ago. "Specimen out, Andy's doing fine...they're still not

through yet" From Mary Beth...

[katinmn]

144. Buh- bye Bev the specimen.

[goodboy]

148. You know what a "specimen" is? It's an Italian Astronaut! Get it?

[troubleinwinter]

150. Hahahah!!!! Good to have a laugh here in the waiting room!!

Rubber pea loved it!

:bounce:

[meganmonkey]

145. sounds like good news!

I just got chills.

Thanks goodboy, for being such a good friend to Andy and keeping us updated!

:hi:

[goodboy]

149. Hey Megan! I'll do my best to get the info out ASAP. (nt)

[Catherine Vincent]

147. Bev the Specimen. :-)

Thanks for the update, Goodboy.:hi:

[In_The_Wind]

157. thanks goodboy

[emlev]

146. We're with you, Andy!

[meti57b]

152. Andy, May G-d heal you.

I'm wishing you the very best of everything!

[Lydia Leftcoast]

153. Already posted on Skinner's thread, but another good wish can't hurt

Prayers for Andy and Termite! O8)

[EFerrari]

154. Kick it!

:kick:

:bounce:

[Historic NY]

155. Godspeed Andy..........my thoughts are with you.

Best wishes

[troubleinwinter]

158. Kick for Andy!!!

[greatauntoftriplets]

161. I am talking to Termite....

The surgery is still going on after six hours. They got all of the tumor, and Andy is doing fine. Termite isn't certain how much longer....then it's into recovery.

[EFerrari]

162. Give Termite a phone hug for me, please.

:)

[Catherine Vincent]

165. Great.

Thanks for the update, greatauntoftriplets. I'm a great aunt too, but not of triplets.:-)

[fooj]

167. "They got all of the tumor"...Wow! Great news!

:applause:

[understandinglife]

169. Great news! Thank you!

Peace.

[WilliamPitt]

170. Have they made a determination

as to what kind of cancer it was? There were two possibilities, one very good and one very bad, and they were not going to know which was what until they got to it.

Any word?

[greatauntoftriplets]

172. Not yet.

We have to wait for the pathology report. No idea how long that would take.

[benburch]

175. Usually a week.

If my wife's biopsy was any indication as to usual delay.

[greatauntoftriplets]

179. Thanks for the info....

I hope your wife got a good report.

[benburch]

181. Yes and no...

Not cancer, but also nothing they could do to stop all of the bleeding she is having short of a hysterectomy, which she does not want.

[woodsprite]

187. As an aside - Has she checked into Uterine Ablation?

It was a literal lifesaver for be and I got to keep my uterus. It's an outpatient procedure, no cutting, back to work in a day, and works about 75-80% in patients the first time. Some patients need a second treatment, which takes it up to 90-95%. They essentially cauterize the inside of the uterus. Hydrothermal ablation has a higher success rate. Of course, I was also past childbearing and my anemia was life-threatening. Some drs. will try to tell you it only works for a year or two. My dr. said that "bullhockey"! He's done hundreds and has never experienced that.

[benburch]

188. Thats what she was in for.

Her uterus is not the right shape inside to allow the procedure. Good thing she never wanted to have children, because it would have been impossible.

[merh]

174. That's great news!

Stomp that nasty thing - be gone!

THANKS! :hi: :woohoo: :woohoo:

[hiley]

177. greatauntoftriplets

When you speak to Termite again please tell him We love them both !
wrinkles
solidarity,
hiley

[greatauntoftriplets]

178. I will!

:hi:

[hiley]

We know Termite will take care of his lucy

[savannahana]

222. gaot

just wanted to say thanks for all your updates
& for supporting and steadying Andy in ways
so many of us wished we could, these last weeks

oh yeah:

auntoftriplets here

greatauntofthreelivewires :-)

:hug: gaot :hug:

[greatauntoftriplets]

231. You're welcome.

I hope you enjoy your triplets. Ours (age 4 1/2) are live wires, too.

:hug:

[savannahana]

234. the girl is still the "boss" of the two boys

born last, but traveled in utero
literally "sitting on top of them" LOL

trips are 13 now (*?!?!?*)

livewires are 6, 4 & 1/2, 19 months

all look like O8) but,,, WOWEE!

energy level could light up a city :-)

[greatauntoftriplets]

235. Same here with the girl triplet and the boys....

She also was born last.

[savannahana]

237. now, that is amazing!

...feminista conspiracy in utero??? :think: :loveya:

[greatauntoftriplets]

255. Could well be.....

And the wonderful thing about multiples is that they are so close to each other...they still sleep together in the same room and it's rare that they are separated. I know that will change as they get older.

Their level of cooperation -- with each other and at preschool -- is remarkable and far beyond their years. What a joy they are.

[Vadem]

164. Prayers to Andy (and Termite)!!!! We're all here for you Andy!

Thanks, Beth, for keeping us updated!

:loveya: to Andy

:kick:

[CaliforniaPeggy]

168. For Andy, love and white light, and bright prayers for healing!

Thank you sfexpat2000 for the post; thank you Skinner for allowing it, thanks to all who have posted updates regarding Andy's progress, and hugs to termite who is anxiously standing by with the rest of us while we wait for the good news of the happy outcome!

:grouphug:

"They got all the tumor." The best possible outcome...what a relief.

[mikita]

171. kick and hoping for good news about Andy

:loveya: :hi:

[Dee625]

173. Late to the thread, but I've been thinking of Andy all morning

Thanks so much for the updates.

I'm sure it's a relief to finally be getting it done.

More well wishes for Andy, Termite and friends.

:pals:

[Debbi801]

176. Sending hugs and warm wishes to Andy and Termite.

[NC Beach Girl]

180. Get Well Soon, Andy!

:hug:

[hiley]

182. Happy dance for bev removal !

[kaygore]

183. Sening prayers, love, and healing images

Andy..we are all with you in this.

[Hand]

184. Late best wishes for Andy!

May all the buddhas, bodhisattvas, gurus, yidams, dharmapalas, and protectors guide you back to well-being! KARMAPA KHYEN NO! KI KI SO SO! OM TARE TUTTARE TURE SVAHA...

[hiley]

186. one more happy dance !

[EFerrari]

191. Is THAT JOHN KERRY TOO?!

:)

[hiley]

207. no, but these bears are happy too !

[HeeBGBz]

189. Prayers and positive thoughts

Sent out to Andy. Hope all is going well.

[goodboy]

190. Surgery is over, Andy's ok. Took over 7 hrs. He's recovering now!

edit: I don't have any more info right now. Just keep Andy in your prayers.

[troubleinwinter]

193. Thank you, goodboy. Holding thoughts and wishes for a peaceful recovery.

[bettyellen]

194. 7 hours wow, they probly found those coins he swallowed

when he was a toddler.
gosh, i'm so glad for him this part is over.

[elehhhhna]

275. ...as well as the chewing gum!

[havocmom]

197. Outstanding & roger that

:thumbsup:

[EFerrari]

199. That's great news, goodboy! Thank you for helping all this time.

:)

[savannahana]

206. somebody check the weather channel :-))

amazing unprecedented circle of healing white light converging above Baltimore!

(((((((((((((((((((((:grouphug:prayer ripple effect:grouphug:))))))))))))))))))))

thanks so much for all the updates & this good news, goodboy!

[hiley]

214. my candles still burn , goodboy

[Ladyhawk]

227. Excellent! Woohoo! Is he awake?

P.S. My surgery took SIX hours, twice as long as anticipated. Andy is going to wake up and go, "What time is it? NO WAY!" hehehe

[SoCalDem]

192. This graphic is called "bevwave".. Let's all wave it GOODBYE

[merh]

196. bev-b-gone. (tm)

:hi: :hi:

:toast:

[troubleinwinter]

200. 'bev-be-gone' (tm) has been applied!! (happy seasick alert)

!

[merh]

202. Do I look green to you?

I feel green.

Bouncey peas are hard enough to take, swaying, swinging bouncey peas. :puke:

Say bye bye to bad rubish!

[troubleinwinter]

208. Most action-packed, good wishes for healing thread, EVER!!!!

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce:

:bounce: :bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce:

:bounce: :bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce::bounce:!

[hiley]

223. here you go merh, this will calm your belly

[merh]

256. hiley, that is beautiful!

:blush: Thank you so very much!!! :hug:

To DU :toast: and to all of Andy's Angels :toast:

:grouphug: With faith and love and laughter, all things are possible. :patriot:

[Love Bug]

195. Prayers and good healing vibes heading Andy's way

[sinkingfeeling]

198. Sending good healing energy your way, Andy.

[savannahana]

201. a thread full of ((((((((((((ripple effect)))))))))))) here for you, Andy!

here's some more Get Well Good Wishes (thanks, valis!)


((((((((((((((((((:patriot:Voter:patriot:Verified:patriot:Paper:patriot:Ballots:patriot:))))))))))))))))))


((((((((((((((((((:9Homegrown:9Tomatoes:9))))))))))))))))))


((((((((((((((((((:grouphug::pals:solidarity:pals::grouphug:))))))))))))))))))


((((((((((((((((((O8)TallO8)AngelsO8)WatchO8)OverO8)YouO8)BothO8)))))))))))))))))))


this morning here there was a beautiful sunrise for you, too,
the light came streaming through clouds of pink and gold


((((((((((((all shall be well:hug:Andy & Termite:hug:all shall be well))))))))))))

[meganmonkey]

203. Great post - it's mesmerizing!

:crazy:

[valis]

204. I'm mesmerized too.... :)

[savannahana]

210. uhh, i think i got vertigo....

but just never did have enough neat toys as a kid :+

somebody holler if i should :think: :silly: make it stop!! :party: :hangover:

it's on you, valis, but hey, thanks again!

[valis]

212. Spread the word! DU needs to be more animated :)

:P

[Debbi801]

205. That is SO cool!

:hi:

Debbi

:grouphug: for DU and especially Andy and Termite!

[savannahana]

238. what is really cool

is this DU Community Stomping Grounds

and its amazing

(((((((((((((solidarity ripple effect))))))))))))

i've never experienced anything like it before :loveya:

:hi: Debbi :-)

ana

(((((((:grouphug: Andy in recovery :grouphug:)))))))

[understandinglife]

209. The bevoma is in formaldehyde and Andy is in recovery!

((((((((((((:woohoo:))))))))))))
((((((((((((:toast:))))))))))))


Peace.

www.missionnotaccomplished.us

[fooj]

225. Un tempo di gratitudine!

A time of gratitude!


peace.

[savannahana]

236. o sa li he li ga

(oh-sah-lee-hey-lee-gah)

we are grateful

[merh]

257. My talented friend, that is wonderful!

:yourock:

[ohtransplant]

213. Get well Andy!!! (sorry Skinner.)

It's time to concentrate on getting well. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Thanks to all who have taken the lead on keeping us updated.

[FogerRox]

217. talked to Andy on Monday --he told me to call him about

Sequoia advantage machines being bought in My county, Essex NJ.

Andy is always on duty---always up to help another activist.

And now its a morphine drip for 3 days------WWOOOOohha

[lavendermist]

216. Andy....

my thoughts, good wishes and prayers are being sent to you and Termite.(I hope you know it is difficult to address someone I don't know as Termite, but I have a family member called Wimpy so I guess it is acceptable). LOL Hope the recovery is quicker than the anticipation leading up to this.

Also, :applause: to those of you who worked so hard to help Andy. You should be very proud of what you did and how you have handled yourselves through all of this. :grouphug:

[Crazy Guggenheim]

218. Welcome to DU!

[lavendermist]

219. Thanks..

I've been around a while but don't post much. This place has been very enlightening and a bit addicting. :hi:

[VelmaD]

220. I just talked to Termite on the phone

He sounds like he's holding up a lot better than I would be in his shoes. :) :hug:

He said Andy is still in recovery but they expect he'll be moved up to the ICU in about an hour or so.

Then hopefully into a regular room tomorrow some time.

Everybody keep sending good thought. :)

edited to remove some of the more personal info until Andy is awake and ready to figure out how much to share

[hiley]

224. VelmaD, thank you for the update!

[savannahana]

226. thank you, VelmaD!

that is all really good news :-)

(((((((sunny weather good thoughts)))))))

:hug: Andy & Termite :hug:

[benburch]

230. I've had friends who have had bits of stomach removed...

Nearly killed one of them, so this is a good thing!

[hiley]

221. ripple for merh and all

good thoughts and love to Andy and Termite !
solidarity
hiley

[Sparkle]

233. So when does Andy start posting messages again?

:-)

Good luck Andy!

[liberalnurse]

242. Give him a week......

or close to it......I imagine he will communicate through friends as we give him strength and focus. This is a MAJOR surgery.....

[Sparkle]

271. Actually I was being sarcastic.

[Nothing Without Hope]

239. I posted a new thread on the BradBlog post-surgery update on Andy here:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=104&topic_id=3728740#
Thread title: "Update from BradBlog - Andy Stephenson in Recovery after 7.5 hours surgery"

And mentioned the bit from bettyellen on Skinner's Andy thread:
"He's out after 7 hours and groggy........
the docs say please leave him be- no phone calls until saturday."

[brainshrub]

240. Hey Andy: You'll get a kick out of this:

Last night, I noticed an unusually high number of hits from FreeRepublic. It turns out the mofos have been linking to my pictures of us at the 2005 inauguration as "proof" that you aren't really sick.

I asked for suggestions on what I should do at this thread:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=105x3321254
Ladyhawk suggested that I write a notice on the picture to tell the Freepers what all of us at DU already know.

Here is the result:



Get better soon Andy. You are loved & respected not only for your hard work, but for who you are. I hope to get you to Asheville soon.

Take care & good luck.

[Lisa0825]

241. LOL! That's excellent!!!

That'll teach 'em not to steal bandwidth! :rofl:

[brainshrub]

244. And the best part is:

In order to copy the the pictures, they had to have seen this page:
http://www.brainshrub.com/adventures/inauguration2005/index.htm

Before this whole bruhaha happened, I wrote this in the header when I first posted the images back in January 2005:

"A word to Republicans: I expect every one of you to enroll in the military today. If you really believe the so-called "War on Terror" is real and that Bush didn't lie to get us into Iraq; Then your duty as a patriotic American is to join the National Guard and DEMAND to be sent overseas."

Sike!

[EFerrari]

245. I just LOVE the internets!

:rofl:

[SoCalDem]

252. You left out the salient parts..for them to understand the message

Dear Freeps.. This is HUGH!!!1!!1 I'm Series!!!!1111!

[Kelvin Mace]

243. Glad to hear Andy is out. Keeping Andy

and Termite in my prayers.

[EFerrari]

246. Hi five, Mr. Mace and thank you.

:)

[troubleinwinter]

248. One of these days, sfex, yer gonna get some sleep!

[liberalnurse]

249. This would be a good time.....

Andy will be in post-op limbo for a while......no news is good news. Use this time wisely to rejuvenate. I render this as advice for everyone. Heck, he isn't even able to pee on his own, turning from side to side will be done with nursing assistance and very painful; they'll be measuring his intake/output, vital signs, checking his bandages, drawing labs constantly an 24/7 routine. The body is in a sense of "shock" post-operatively and needs to regain balance. Lets all do the same. Analgesics will also be utilize by Andy...

I don't recommend folks seek them out!

[In_The_Wind]

253. thank you for everything you are doing

:loveya:

[EFerrari]

250. Everytime I fix to, somebody starts a new project around here.

It's like being a Home Depot addict.
:crazy:

I know, aloha shirts. I'll be back.

[troubleinwinter]

251. Aloha shirts. Yes. Need Aloha shirts bad. Glorious ones.

[salin]

247. Glad to read this - especially with the updates

blessings to you, Andy and to termite.

[ralps]

254. YAY!!!!!!!! I'm glad the operation went well Lot's of HUGS to Andy &

Termite. :hug: :grouphug: :hug:
:hi: :loveya: :hug: :pals: :woohoo:

[tinfoilinfor2005]

258. Hey Andy!

Seven Hours?!! Fess up pal, they found those WMD's in there, right? ;) You rest easy now, buddy...all is well.

[merh]

260. LOL

:rofl:

Kick this thread for the night crowd! :kick:

[nicknameless]

267. Love your (((((((((Ripple Effect))))))))) thread,

but will miss your Topo Gigio!
:hi:

[merh]

272. Hi ya nick!

So good to see you. :pals:

Topo was sweet wasn't he. I think I should put him back up, I am less verocious with Topo by my side. :evilgrin:

:blush: Thanks for the kind words too.

[nicknameless]

273. Really? ;)

OMG! Did you see what that cute little mouse just wrote?!!!

:rofl: :hug:

[merh]

274. See!

:shrug:

Perspective is everything.

Have you ever tried to walk around your dark bedroom and not stub your toe? Close your eyes the next time you do it. You will be able to use the image in your head to maneuver around. If you can see any semblance of shapes and figures and shadows, your brain is focusing on those and is not relying on the map in your head.

The image that is your avatar is part of what the reader's mind focuses on, topo seems apologetic and simple, sweet and harmless. Thus, I am less intimidating.

Just an opinion from my observations of the past few days. :hi:

[Wilms]

261. Here's hoping Andy is Dandy.

[s-cubed]

262. Love to both Andy and Ted,

Hope you have a speedy and uneventful recovery.

[Melissa G]

264. Love to Andy and Termite!

Feel Better Andy and come back to us soon. We Love and Miss you!
:loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya:

[KoKo]

265. Good (((((VIBES)))) to Andy for Speedy Recovery!

[eridani]

266. Kick for the nightowls

Blessings on you, Andy and Termite.

[nicknameless]

268. Thanks for the update!

Best wishes and prayers for Andy! :grouphug:

[suffragette]

269. hugs and wellness to you, Andy