Super Clark

Liver Life Walk

2011-02-22T21:13:00.004-07:00

I am walking and raising funds for the American Liver Foundation's signature fundraising event, the Liver Life Walk, and I need your help. Even though Clark is not on earth with us, his journey still continues, his influence is still here, his life and story are still serving a purpose. There are lots of Super Clark's out there who can benefit from wonderful programs like this.

How Can You Help?
1. You can walk with us on May 19, 2010 in Provo, UT
2. You can make a donation in any amount you wish. Money donated will go to the American Liver Foundation and be used to research funding, and promote education and detection efforts.
3. Spread the word. Copy and paste this link - http://bit.ly/SuperClarkWalk - and post it in your blog, facebook, or send an email to your contacts.

Visit Super Clark's personal page at the Liver Life Walk site to learn more.

You Shall Ask . . .

2010-12-07T13:42:00.005-07:00

Here are the two pictures I took at the cemetery yesterday. Not a lot of change, just poinsettias now. Myls had taken some lefse and put at Clark's grave on Thanksgiving. It was a really hard time for him. I looked for the lefse yesterday and either it was eaten by birds or covered with snow.

You shall ask

What good are the dead leaves
And I will tell you
They nourish the sore earth.
You shall ask
What reason is there for winter
And I will tell you
To bring about new leaves.
You shall ask
Why are the leaves so green
And I will tell you
Because they are rich with life.
You shall ask

Why must summer end
And I will tell you
So that the leaves can die.

- Nancy Wood

Memories Of The Way We Were

2010-11-16T16:51:00.007-07:00

I’ve made numerous visits to the cemetery since June 19, 2010. Each trip was so hard; I’d find an empty spot with not even a marker in place. I was so anxious to see Clark’s monument finally in place after several attempts to make it just what we wanted. On November 11, 2010 the headstone was set. I came around the curve entering the area and there it was, Clark’s face smiling. My son, Clark! Maybe the empty site was better? No, after taking a few moments to remember the way we were, the way our family had once been, the way it was when Jim was with us; I faced reality of the memories. Remember when all the kids were still living at home and depending on their parents yet. How sweet the moment! Now I have two members of our family at Mount Hope Cemetery and still missing them both. Often wondering what Jim would look like today as he aged? How proud Jim would be of his children? What things would have been different if he was still alive? Wondering about Clark if he hadn’t gotten sick, would he still be working at the same job? Would he be holding the Priesthood? Would he be married? Then I read the verse on Clark’s monument. It reads Alma 40:12,

"And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace, where they shall rest from all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow."

I felt a great peace, nearly an envy. I then walked over to Jim’s headstone to admire the new vases I had set on his headstone too. What a nice addition!

The vases were empty and I wanted to get them filled with special flowers as soon as possible. I didn’t want to go to any store in Watertown to buy the flowers, as others in the cemetery might have the same flowers. So I made a special trip to Sioux Falls to buy them at Michael’s. After Clark’s passing, I found in the glove box of his car, a $50 gift card for American Express. Knowing not many stores take American Express I had wondered where and what to best spend the card on that would be “special”. I had tucked it away in the glove box of MY car. I’ve been struggling with a cold, so on my way to Sioux Falls, I reached over and opened my glove box for a cough drop. There it was. The American Express card. I thought, “wouldn’t it be great if Michael’s accepts American Express?” I entered the store, looking for that something “special”. Flowers of all kinds all over and 40% off too. So it wasn’t long before my cart was FULL. Flowers for fall and flowers for Christmas.

Then it came time to pay. A lump came to my throat. My lips quivered and tears flowed as I stood in line to pay. When it was my turn, I felt a bit silly looking like I did, so I explained to the clerk that I had lost my son this summer and was wondering if the store accepted American Express Cards? She smiled at me and said, “Yes, we do.” I pulled it out and told her that I had saved it for something special and that I had agreed to use it for the flowers for the graves of my son and husband. She opened her arms, bent over, and gave me a big hug. People standing behind me had to be wondering what was going on. Then she said to me, “I know what you’re going through. I lost a three month old child to SIDS, and my husband passed away a short time later. We comforted each other and I knew I truly had met someone who understood. Someone who knows the pain I was feeling.

Yesterday, November 15th, 2010 I was joined by Wyatt and Myls as the three of us went to the cemetery to assemble the fall flowers in the new vases. It was a special time for me, to have the boys help. Wyatt cut the wire on the flowers to just the right length as Myls duplicated the flowers in the vases opposite of me. As I drove away I was reminded of “One More Final Thing” that had now come to pass. that had now come to pass.

- Rhonda Jo Kimble (Clark's mother)

$56

2010-11-15T16:56:00.001-07:00

I ordered a car cover for Clark's car. Paid for it on my credit card and then came home to get the $56 from his wallet and was going to pay that on my CC. I first took some pictures of the car cover and then money. While heading to town the tears welled up. It wasn't just any money, it was special money! Once back into circulation, who'd know that that was the money Clark had? I couldn't do it, I just couldn't do it. So I folded it up exactly how he had it, tucked it back where it belongs, and that is where it will stay. What a tough day!

- Rhonda Kimble (Clark's Mom)

Super Clark Blog to Book

2010-11-15T08:32:00.002-07:00

The Super Clark blog only has a few posts left to write. His headstone was placed and we will post pictures of that. I want to write a synopsis of the funerals and share pictures just to record them. Then, we will leave the blog up but probably will not be updating. We are going to print a book so if there are any last comments, experiences, thoughts you would like to share, please leave them as a comment. We would love to hear from you and feel of your support and involvement. Thank you!

Fit For a Hero Chocolate Cake

2010-11-10T15:14:00.004-07:00

A member of the single's ward made this amazing cake for the luncheon after Clark's funeral. I don't think that one person who tasted it didn't rave about how moist, rich, and delicious it was. My mom said, "Lucky is the man who marries the woman who made this cake!" We did our digging and got the recipe. It is now a go-to favorite amongst our family. Clark became a hero to many during his illness and this cake is nothing short of being fit for a hero.

1 box chocolate fudge cake mix (I used SuperMoist's Triple Chocolate Fudge, but any chocolate kind with pudding in it works - the fudge is definitely better than Devil's Food, promise!)
2/3 cup water
1/3 cup orange juice
1 cup sour cream
3 eggs
6 oz. chocolate chips (3/4 cup)

Mix together everything but chocolate chips (easy, no?) - I followed the box's recommendation of 30 seconds on low and then 2 minutes on medium. Then mix in the chocolate chips.

Pour into a well-greased (with shortening - NOT oil), well-floured bundt pan. I can't stress this enough! The greasing and flouring are essential for the cake to not stick, so be thorough.

Bake at 350* F. for 40-45 minutes.

When the cake has cooled , drizzle with chocolate glaze, which is made by combining:

3 Tbsp. butter (you can melt it; I just used softened butter and then zapped the whole glaze for 25 seconds to make it pourable)
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp. vanilla
2 Tbsp. hot water
6 Tbsp. cocoa

I recommend serving along with some vanilla ice cream.

Super Clark on ABC4

2010-09-23T23:45:00.009-06:00

New health care laws might have saved young man's life

Reported by: Kimberly Houk
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC 4 News) - With the number of uninsured Americans rising to more than 50-million last year, the new health care laws are bringing some welcome relief, but for one young man’s family, the new laws didn't come soon enough. The Kimble family lost their son and brother in June after his insurance company refused to pay for a bone marrow transplant. It’s a costly procedure that could have saved his life.

Kristin Purles is reading to her children on a day she says is very bittersweet to her as she watches a new health care law go into effect. A law, she says may have made it possible for her kids to still have their uncle, and she, her brother.

“It’s hard looking back knowing this could have saved Clark’s life and given him years with us. It’s bittersweet, because I hope many others lives can be saved, and they get the care that they need”.

Clark Kimble recently lost his battle with acute liver failure. Their last images were of him lying in his hospital bed, hooked to tubes.

“That was probably the hardest part. He had a condition that had a cure. Doctors knew what to do. They had the equipment. He had an exact sibling match donor. Everything was ready to go on a moment’s notice, and it was all denied because of funding”.

Clark reached his maximum lifetime payout limit of $2-million. The insurance company refused to pay for what could have been a life-saving bone marrow transplant.

“They didn’t have funding, and it cost him his life”.

A life cut tragically short at just 24 years old, but under the new health care reform law, insurers are now prohibited from imposing lifetime limits on benefits.

It could help people stay on their private insurances and get the care that they need there”. It’s a law she wishes would have come sooner to possibly save her brother.

This new health care law is projected to cover 32 million uninsured people, as well as reduce the deficit by 143-billion dollars over 10 years, but republicans are reminding voters the health care law did manage to front load some benefits while deferring the pain of tax increases until after the election.

Kimberly Houk

Service

2010-09-22T05:47:00.012-06:00

"Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ." -Gal. 6:2

I have been so touched at the power of service. I talk of this not because I am great at giving service. I'm striving to be better. But because I have been the recipient of great service. The feelings of love that are gained for those you serve and those who serve you are irreplaceable.

So many have served our family throughout this past year and to you all I am so grateful. One man, however, one man has taught me more about true Christlike service than any other. I have such a special place in my heart for him because he was one of the few who became so intimately involved with Clark as few others, and it wasn't because he was family, it was by choice. He cared for and loved Clark as if he were his own son. He gave and sacrificed and served constantly. I could not begin to count the ways by which our family benefited from his good works. (As it is with true selfless service, I know he would not want to be named.)

He taught me to serve others because you want to serve them. See a need fill a need. We often ask "Is there anything I can do to help?" or "Let me know if you need anything." How often are we actually taken up on those offers. Most of the time the response will be, "No, I'm OK." This man is too stubborn to let it be at that. He would see a need and fill a need, without waiting for us to ask him or give our permission. When called out on this one time his response was, "I can help too. Let me serve you."

On many occasions his service, or that of those in his "flock", has brought tears to my eyes. Just to name a few - a schedule was set up for help with rides for Clark's appointments, meals were brought over, money and donations and money and money, fundraisers organized, blood drives hosted, a few days before Christmas a box big enough for me to climb into showed up on our doorstep filled . . . FILLED with food and gifts, Christmas lights were hung, our car fixed several times and each time we went to settle up the response was, "There's no charge." (I've tried to argue this one but there's no budging a stubborn man.), even the visits and phone calls or texts to check in go a long way. His service has been endless! Clark passed away over three months ago and to this day he is serving us. Not one of these times did I pick up the phone and ask for help. It was all greatly needed and appreciated and done on his own account. See a need fill a need.

I have a book called "The Dog Poop Initiative." Basically the story goes that there is a man who takes his dog for a walk, lets him poop in the grass, and doesn't pick it up. Later, a soccer team arrives and many point out the stinky poo. "With luck and great effort, they avoid the pile." Two more teams come to play. The parents, coaches, and refs point out and warn the others about the poop. "So far all we've seen are a lot of pointers and a pooper. But what about initiative? Where are the leaders and the scoopers?" Then another arrives, and as the pointers pointed, he went over and cleaned up the poop. His son watched and later his team played without worrying about the poop. "The example of our initiative may help others more clearly see, the kind of person and even hero, that they too can choose to be." We've talked a lot about heroes, Clark being one of the greatest. This man has also earned himself the title of hero to me.

Clark's singles ward came over one family night and put up Christmas lights for us. We didn't own a ladder, all our family was coming here, and Christmas is Clark's favorite holiday. I felt their love every time I saw the twinkling lights and so enjoyed having them up. If the singles hadn't done that service for us, it would not have gotten done. A couple months after Christmas, they were still hanging. I knew they needed to come down but we still didn't have a ladder, and frankly it was the least of my priorities. Besides, I still liked their reminder and even though they were off, they often put a little bit of light in me.

Our last family picture, taken Christmas 2009

If you've been with us all along you know this but a little about my day in and day out during the time Clark was here. Not to complain, just to preface my story that relates to dog poop. Clark was on two different antibiotics that needed to be hooked up three times a day, each running for one hour. Doing the math, that's literally around the clock, hooking and unhooking, alarms set to get up in the middle of the night and early in the morning. I'm no nurse so it was nerve racking for me, as well as hard to administer a substance that says "FATAL" and is double wrapped and sealed so you don't get any on your skin, and I'm pumping this through my brother's veins. He had several appointments each week, 45 minute drive each way in good traffic. While there, I spent a lot of time in waiting rooms because I couldn't go back with Clark because of the kids. The hospitals had the ban on kids because of illnesses and extremely immune suppressed patients. I was equally worried about my kids and what they might come across spending so much time in hospitals with people that are so sick. I also felt bad sending Clark back to these appointments alone, never knowing what confusing or heavy news he may be getting. Also, a few times a week were infusions, lasting a couple hours each. Sometimes we knew about them in advance, sometimes it was at moments notice. A nurse would come to the house in the morning, draw blood for labs, and call back results. Sometimes things looked good and sometimes it was "URGENT, critically low, don't shave or brush your teeth or trim your nails or stub your toe." We'd be out the door for the rest of the day. Sometimes we'd leave at 7:30AM and not get home until 8:00PM, when I would START making supper. I was also babysitting, not because I want to but because I have to. It's one of the few things I can do to earn a little extra money and still do everything else. So several days a week I would have three kids ages 2 and under. So, there's the duties of wife, mother, housekeeper, work, and caregiver. (WOW it seems like so much more writing it out and remembering than it was when we were in the middle of it all. Again, not to complain.) Yet my biggest stress and weight was of worry and helplessness. Watching Clark suffer and go through his daily struggles was so hard emotionally. I wanted to help him in anyway I could but I just couldn't.

Then there came a day when I didn't have to babysit, Clark didn't have appointments, and the sun was shining. I determined to set the day aside to be with my babies. They needed to be kids, have fun, be in the sun and get fresh air, crawl and run without being told they couldn't do that and getting a smearing of hand sanitizer every time they touch something. We went outside, they played, and as I listened to their giggles, I let everything else go. I was gaining so much perspective on life and what's really important and these were the moments that matter. It felt so good.

A neighbor that I don't regularly talk with came walking over so I knew something was up.
"Hey, how are ya doin?"
"Oh, life's crazy but we're alright."
"I was wondering if you could take your Christmas lights down. If you don't take them down, I will talk to HOA. They will serve you a notice so I thought I would just come talk to you first so you can get them down before that happens."
"Uh, (forced fake smile) sure!"
- Exit sunshine, laughter, and lack of worries.

Only hours later, the phone rings and we are again urgently out the door for an infusion. On my way out I see this neighbor talking to some of our other beloved neighbors. I don't know if the disgrace of our Christmas lights came up as I drove by or not. This is my only guess because when we got home, the lights were tied in a neat bundle sitting on our front step. How simple an act of service on their part, maybe taking 20 minutes of their time, how huge it was to us not to be burdened by Christmas lights right then.

So, we see poopers and scoopers, pointers and heroes. See a need fill a need. I only share these stories because I have been so touched by the service I have received from others. I want to be better and help meet others needs or lift their burdens, if only a little. I've noticed that when we do something without being asked, that we actually were asked, but it was by the spirit. When we serve someone else because the spirit asked us to, it is usually exactly what they needed. I hope and pray that I can be this person in someone else's life.

"And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God." -Mosiah 2:17

Blood Drive

2010-09-17T13:26:00.004-06:00

We all know how much Clark's story impacted us while we were all in the heat of it. Keep it going! Hopefully always. Clark's life was saved many, many times through the selfless donation of others both in the form of organ and blood donations. We cannot all give an organ, but we can give blood and save lives . . . over and over and over again.

Hopefully you will take the opportunity do donate blood whenever you can. Here is another chance. Clark's stake is holding a blood drive. They are still awarding the "Super Clark Kimble Blood Drive Award" to the ward who has the most members donate. If you are not a member of this stake, you are still welcome to donate.

Saturday, September 18
9 AM - 2 PM
Lehi Utah Jordan River Stake Center

2161 W Grays Dr, Lehi, UT 84043
Clark with the award at their March Drive
where they had such a large turn out they had to
shut down early because they ran out of supplies.

I Cry

2010-08-18T00:34:00.019-06:00

It catches up to me at night. I'm tired and worn out from the day. I'm laying still in bed. My mind is idle. That's when it catches me. Thoughts flood in, my heart aches, and tears flow freely.

I cry because I'm sorry for how he suffered. Pain, loneliness, fear, denial, worry.

I cry because I have so many regrets. This one hurts the most. I regret I didn't go to the hospital to visit more, that I didn't hug him more, that I didn't say "I love you" more, that I didn't sit and just BE with him more.

I cry because I'm mad! I want to scream, and grit my teeth, and punch something. I'm mad at Dr. H and scenes of the court hearing play through my head. Listening to this cold man convincing the judge he was a lost cause, at the same time watching Clark get sicker and sicker out of the corner of my eye, until he had to leave the room. I'm mad that Clark never got a chance to have the BMT. I'm mad that the system is so messed up to allow this.

I cry because I'm grateful. Grateful that he's not suffering. Grateful that he has touched so many people and changed their lives for the better. Grateful for his example to me of bravery, patience, faith, graciousness, and acceptance. I'm forever grateful for the donor of Clark's liver and his family, and for the precious year we had because of their priceless gift.

I cry for the past. Our childhood. Our fun times. This past year. I cry for the what if's and what might have been's. I cry because I know it was his time to go. We all exercised enough faith to keep him here, but it was not Heavenly Father's will, and nothing can change that.

I cry for the present. For the pain we all feel at his loss. For the pain so many others feel at the loss of their loved ones. For how near he still is, for now. He was here just two months ago. But soon that will change to half a year, then two years, then a decade. I hate that I'm getting used to my new normal.

I cry for the future. For the anniversary of that decade. I cry because my children will not know him. I cry for the children he never had, yet am grateful that none were left behind. I cry because no matter how hard I try, the memories will fade and blur. I cry because our future is without him here.

But . . .
Tonight I cry because I just. plain. miss him!
I miss his smile and laugh. I miss the smells and sounds in my house. I miss the car rides and meal times. I miss him from childhood. I miss his everything.

And then . . .
I can't cry anymore tonight. My checks dry. Each blink a little longer. I fall asleep in the wet of my pillow.

Super Clark Shirts

2010-08-06T08:03:00.006-06:00

Today would have been Clark's 1st birthday. He said he had two birthdays, referring to the date of his liver transplant on Aug 6, 2009. So much has happened since then, only one year ago.

Many people across the country are now sporting the "SC" and a message to Live Super. If you haven't gotten your Super Clark shirt yet, we still have some. You can order through Paypal, mail me a check, or email me for pick up (klkimble@gmail.com).

I love wearing my shirt and especially love when I get asked by strangers what it means. My favorite part is the back, "LIVE SUPER" although it makes me sad because it was originally designed with "SAVE SUPER CLARK." My mother-in-law hosts a cousin camp every summer and this year their theme was "Live Super." They wore their SC shirts as a group and everywhere they went, people stopped them with questions. The kids were so excited to tell them about Clark. My cousin's little boy, Carter, came up to me on Sunday and said, "When I got my Clark shirt, I wore it for three days."

If you order 4 or more shirts I've been throwing in a few extra because shipping is less. Do not add extra to your cart because you will be charged for it. You can let me know what extra size you want by clicking "Add special instructions to the seller" on the left of the "Review your payment" page, or I will just throw in another of what you already ordered.

Clark's Maple

2010-08-01T22:04:00.005-06:00

It has become a tradition in our family to plant a tree on my mom's property for each grandchild that's born. Clark's high school class, the Class of 2003, said that they would like to plant a tree in memory of Clark. We loved the idea and immediately went tree shopping. Clark didn't have a favorite tree that we knew of so we tried to think of another tree that might have some meaning. There was a beautiful Japanese Maple in front of Wing Mortuary in Utah but that species cannot grow in Watertown. We looked into other Maples and decided on a Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple. We were all a little weepy as we broke the ground, then planted the tree by the road. We offered a prayer for the tree, and for Clark's memories, to go on living and beautifying our lives. The tree has already caught the eye of neighbors who comment on it's beauty and how they appreciate it's symbolism. May it grow tall and strong and be a constant reminder to us that just as the tree lives, Clark does also.

Messages Across Heaven

2010-08-01T21:36:00.001-06:00

I think that all who participated would agree that the balloon release on Clark's birthday was very meaningful. It gave us something to do to recognize his birthday, but more so for me, the gesture of releasing a balloon with a message to Clark into the heavens was very healing. We sang "Happy Birthday", then all let go together. It was neat to see the sky fill with green balloons and I watched until they were out of sight. As we all looked on together, I overheard Kate tell her kids that when you can't see them anymore, that means that Clark got them. Clark got many heartfelt messages from all over the country today. I know there were balloons released in Washington, Colorado, Las Vegas, St. George, South Dakota, and Lehi to name a few. Our cousin, Eric, who was also Clark boss, climbed a cell tower in Wyoming and released a balloon for Clark from the top of the tower. I've thought about the people who might find our messages scattered across the country, and wish they could only know the story behind our airborne notes. I know that my family will make this a tradition, sending balloon messages to heaven each year on Clark's birthday. Thank you Kate for the idea and for providing the balloons for our Utah release. Thank you too all the others who honored Clark on this day in any way you did, balloons, wearing your Super Clark shirt, thoughts, and prayers. Clark was and is well loved.

Ryan and Becky in Minnesota

At Clark's graveside in Watertown, SD.

I'm sure Hemi misses Clark more than we know.

The Utah release.

St. George, UT release.(If you have pictures you would like to share you can still email them to me and I would love to post them. Thanks! klkimble@gmail.com)

Happy 25th Birthday Clark!

2010-07-27T01:12:00.009-06:00

I knew that this would be a hard day,

but I didn't think it would be my lunch that would break me,

bringing me to painful tears.

Happy Birthday little brother!
Love,
Tin
Clark's 21st birthday, 2006.

Clark, celebrating his 22nd birthday.

Celebrating Clark's 23rd birthday with

a dutch oven peach cobbler two years ago.

Clark's 24th birthday, just after the onset of his illness.

He was very yellow and was admitted to the hospital the next day.

T-Shirst Are In

2010-07-16T01:38:00.018-06:00

T-shirts are here and they look great. I am so excited to wear mine as it is a symbol of Clark and bears a message that he would love to share - "LIVE SUPER!"

Order Here

We are not trying to make money on the shirts, just making sure all expenses are covered, including packaging, shipping, PayPal fees, etc. They will cost $15 shipped and $10 for pick up. You can pay using PayPal for shipped shirts, and cash or check (made out to Kristin Purles) for pick up.

Pick up will be available in Utah only. We will have them at the balloon release on July 27 at Olympic Park in Lehi. After that you can pick up at our home. Email me for address and date/time - klkimble@gmail.com.

There are some kids sizes and plus sizes. There is a link to a size chart at the bottom of the page. Just as a reference, I wear an adult small and Kellen wears a large. Willow wears 3T clothes and the Youth XS was big on her - maybe for a 4 or 5 year old. Hope this gives you an idea.

Wear your shirt with pride and honor,
remembering that you represent Clark as you do.
He would want you to LIVE each day SUPER!

Balloon Release

2010-07-16T00:33:00.015-06:00

I've been wondering what to do on Clark's upcoming birthday. I usually make him a Cheesecake a Red Velvet Cake or go up the canyon for dutch oven peach cobbler, but who would eat it? Thanks to Kate's suggestion, I am now looking forward to CELEBRATING it rather than dreading it.

On Clark's birthday, Tuesday, July 27th, we will be releasing balloons into the heavens. Anyone who would like to join us is welcome.

We will be releasing them in Utah at Olympic Park in Lehi at 6:25 PM sharp (the time of his birth. We are celebrating his life, not his death!). Please arrive early to fill your balloon, write a message, and get a Tshirt (if you want one - $10). I will be there at 5:45. Balloons will be provided by Kate. They will be green because that is the national color for organ donation (like yellow is for soldiers and pink for breast cancer).

In Watertown, if you would like to join in releasing a balloon, it will be at his graveside at the south end of Mount Hope Cemetery, at 6:25PM CST (the time of Clark's birth). Bring your own green balloon, with a message inside or tied to the string if you would like.

If you are not in one of these locations, or if you cannot make it at that time, feel free to release a balloon at your own convenience to celebrate with us. If you would like, take a picture, email it to me (klkimble@gmail.com), and I will post them on the blog.

Thank you Kate for the wonderful idea.

What a special day this will be!

Constant Reminders That You're Gone

2010-07-14T09:36:00.013-06:00

I can cook fish anytime I want.
If I drop food on the ground, I have to pick it up.
I'm usually in bed by 10:30pm.
I'm behind on celebrity status'. I just learned what "JB" stands for.
I wonder how the bishop's doing?
Mail! Mail! Mail! Bills! Bills! Bills!
I closed your bank account this week.
I have fewer emails because of fewer comments on the blog.
Little to nothing to blog about.
Blog traffic is down 68%. Surprisingly it still gets over 100 hits a day.
I have a fridge full of purple G2, a pantry full of oatmeal, and I dumped out a whole jar of yogurt today.
I'm the new owner of a WII, an IPhone, a bottle of cologne, and a recliner.
Cell towers are everywhere.
SASH - Saline Antibiotic Saline Heparin
Facebook says it's been awhile and wants me to reconnect with you.
Willow says she saw you in heaven and you were happy.
I'm in communication with several people wanting to do news stories.
You now have an anniversary of death. June 11, 2010. Over a month already.
I haven't watched "Let's make a deal" for awhile.
They're building a Chick-Fil-A in the Meadows.
"I'm sorry to hear about your brother."
Your smell is still in the basement. Fading.
I have no use for an IV pole, a shower chair, or a blood pressure monitor.
I almost wrote your name on the temple prayer role, twice.
I love my new houseplants.
I hung a picture of you on the fridge, right next to dad's.
I went swimming, sat in the sun, and dug in the dirt, all in the same day.
While in Willow's room, I could hear Kellen talking on the phone downstairs, from his office.
I'm buying up everything "Superman" that I see.
I call your phone sometimes just to get your voice mail and hear your voice. Ironic that your message says, "Sorry that you've missed me." Most people say, sorry I missed you. But you got it right. I miss you!
Oop, just called again and it's now been disconnected. One more thing to miss.

Help Hayden Heal

2010-07-10T23:26:00.005-06:00

Others have done so much for Clark and as I've said before, it has taught me who I want to be for others. Here is another in need. Five-year-old Hayden Cullimore needs a liver transplant. Even with good insurance, his family has been told to prepare to pay up to $200,000 out of pocket. To "Help Hayden Heal" his family has organized a benefit concert on July 19 at 7:00 p.m. at the Layton Amphitheatre. The concert will feature the local Utah famed trio Mercy River, nationally acclaimed Broadway tenor Dallyn Bayles (Phantom of the Opera), Jessie Clark Funk and recent organ transplant recipient and award-winning pianist Paul Cardall.

Don't Leave Us Yet

2010-07-02T08:45:00.008-06:00

We have so enjoyed keeping this blog for many reasons. We have been impressed by the following Clark gained from close friends and family as well as strangers. As of today, we have had 14,452 absolute unique visitors, and a total of 86,258 visits. The blog's peak traffic days were transplant day, August 6, 2009 with 1,780 visits, and 2,871 visits on the day of his passing, June 11, 2010. That is incredible. What a support we (and Clark) have felt from you.

Before you stop checking in on the blog, know that we have a few posts left to share. We will post a summary of the funerals along with pictures and audio if possible, T-Shirt ordering information, a couple more news stories are in the works, and more. Of course, our posts will not be as frequent but we don't plan for this to be the end quite yet. And remember to continue posting your comments as we are going to print the blog into a book.

Rainy Days

2010-06-19T23:10:00.000-06:00

RAINY DAYS

C Words and Music by Cheryl Faye Larson Huntington, June 2010.
All rights reserved.

When I was just a boy,
My play outside was such a joy.
I’d pet the dog and ride my bike,
I’d climb the tree and fly my kite.
Unaware of danger near,
I kept right on, without a fear.
Life was good, and I was free.
Sunshine’s rays did smile on me.

But on those days when it grew dark,
My Mom would call, “Come inside, Clark.
A storm is brewing in the sky!”
Soon came the thunder’s roar
And lightning’s teeth outside my door.
I pressed my face to the window pane
And watched the falling rain.

Then Mama’d come and take my hand
She’d tell me, “Clark, my Little Man,
I promise that the sun will shine again.
I know it’s hard; it isn’t fun
To leave your toys today, but Son,
We’ll wait together ’til it’s done.”

She said, “This storm will surely pass.
Keep looking through this dismal glass,
And God will paint a rainbow,
bright and vast.
She told me about the pot of gold
We couldn’t see or really hold
And I believed the things that Mama told.

She taught me how to watch and wait;
That wishes don’t determine fate.
She built in me a true and lasting faith.
I understood her words so plain.
We pressed our faces to the pane.
Together, we watched the falling rain.

When I was twelve years old,
The rain beat down so fierce and cold,
And in that storm my precious father died!
My family knelt down and cried:
The rain outside fell from our eyes.
But we held hands through our pain
And watched the falling rain.

When I was twenty-four,
A final storm beat down on my door:
I could not tame that raging tide.
Despite attentive, loving care
And a world of faith and heart-felt prayers,
I said, “Alright: I’ve lost this fight.”
And I died that rainy night.

And as my Spirit took its flight,
I soared above the clouds in sight!
The One who held me close in His embrace
Said, “Now my Son, your mission’s done:
New life for you has just begun!”
With super speed we flew beyond the sun.

I looked below to see the earth:
The planet of my mortal birth.
I sent my love to everyone down there.
I saw it then: the rainbow’s end;
The pot of gold around the bend.
There we stopped, and I listened
to my Friend:

“The things your Mama taught to you
Are precious, Son, and they are true!”
Just wait right here, inside these
Pearly Gates.
And then I saw him, face to face:
My smiling father! We embraced!
There is no more falling rain!

We’re alright, no storms in sight!
No more rainy days and dreary nights.
No more rainy days—
Rainy days – and lonely nights!

2010-06-19T16:47:00.000-06:00

South Dakota Funeral

2010-06-19T10:19:00.000-06:00

I haven't been able to bring myself to go back through these days in such detail as this. They were hard to live the first time but surprisingly, listening to the audio has been very comforting now that some time as passed and my heart is not so tender. Tears of missing and longing and remembrance fall rather than tears of sheer pain.

South Dakota Funeral

Eulogy read by Kristin Purles. Once a hero always a hero. He didn't realize his powers. He had to magnify them and learn how to use them which he did in the last year of his life. He had the get away car, his Dodge Charger, and his loyal side kick, Hemi. Some of his powers were bravery - surgeries, test, biopsies, never showed fear; selflessness - Myls said he was fighting just as much for all of us as for himself; humility - He came into fame and attention without even knowing it. Clark was told he was famous in Watertown and he was so puzzled as to why; patience - He endured so much and he endured it well. He endured everything without complaint. He was a good example and restored our belief in the goodness of mankind. People swarmed to help, offered prayers and services.

I regret not telling him that I love him more. I expressed love for my family. How comforting it was to look up and see a group of big tall strong men walking toward me in the hospital.

Enos 1: 27 And I soon go to the place of my rest, which is with my Redeemer; for I know that in him I shall rest. And I rejoice in the day when my mortal shall put on immortality, and shall stand before him; then shall I see his face with pleasure, and he will say unto me: Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father. Amen.

Bruce Larson - Clark had a way with people and was always looking for friends. If you took the time to shake his hand, he had you right where he wanted you and you couldn't get away without being his friend. I know that Jesus wept. I was with Clark when his spirit left his body and I wept. We have a Father in Heaven, we are children of God. He sent his only begotten son to atone. Because of our Savior, He overcame the grave. He took the sting out of death and saved us. I know that day will come for everyone that we will be resurrected. When that day comes for me, I will be able to put my arms around Clark, and once again I will weep and my tears will fall on his back, this time they will be tears of happiness.

Clark's first day of work in Utah.We were asked to work all night. Clark turned pale and gave his first excuse that he had to unpack his suit case. Then said he had to paint his bedroom.We had supper and talked and worked all night together. That young man eventually became my boss. He was a hard worker and was honest. I worked coast to coast in heat, cold, and rain with Clark. Shared stories of Clark getting stuck 300 ft up on a tower and being rescued by Aaron and another of accidentally dropping something from the top of a tower and starting a fire in Idaho big enough to bring several firetrucks, a helicopter, and the news.

Sometimes Clark was a big goofball and referred to a lot of people, especially me, as a goofball. Building a tower in Montana, he used a two pound hammer to get a bolt, wound up but didn't move his finger out of the way. Logan and Clark made a plan to get the swelling down. They got a drill, put on a bit. Logan held the drill and pulled the trigger, Clark pressed his finger into the drill, the bit caught and Clark's arm twisted all around. Blood squirting and they had succeeded. They were happy.

Heavenly Father has given us prayer as way of communicating with him. Grateful for all the prayers given in behalf of Clark. Clark touched many lives during his illness. It was because of your prayers that Heavenly Father prolonged Clark's life for a time. I believe in my heart that Clark did more in his sickness as an example to us than I've ever seen. He stopped in one day and I asked, "How are you feeling Clarky?" "Pretty good for as sick as I am." The last day I visited him in the hospital, he was resting and Drs came in to do work. Clark woke up and looked at them and said, "What are you doing here? Are you worried about my health?"

Refereed to the picture on the back of the program. Clark's funeral was June 19, Clark's dad died June 20. Can you see the happiness on Jim's face? Never seen his dad's face happier. We cannot reach the fullness of joy in mortality. When he calls us home, we reach that fullness of joy. This is one of the happiest father's today. He has his son back with him. We are all born and we all die. We all die so we can live. Our father will call us home and we will have joy. I miss him dearly already. A guy who worked with Clark said, "Because of Clark I hugged my kids and told them that I love them like I've never done before." Clark Kimble is as super man. One more word that starts with S that would fit him appropriately that word is special because he is. I don't know how he did it but he did it with dignity. Grateful for Savior and atonement.

Ricky Lueck - I got to know Clark very well through his life and through working with him. Clark loves to dance and loves listening to music. Clark wanted to go to Tiajuana so we walked around, found a dance and had a great time. On the drive back, cop cars pulled us over. Clark had a giggle and a chuckle. We had a whole scenario worked out but police found the carpenter's knife as a weapon. We were hands up on the truck and Clark was looking at me with this smirk and I said, "Clark, this is not the time to smirk. We aren't even in our own country." The cop said, "You guys are going to jail" and I said, "No we're not" and we went into a staring contest as Clark is giggling. We luckily got away but a week later Clark had the audacity to say, "Hey Ricky, do you want to go to Tiajuana?" I said, "Clark, I'm never going there again. I'm not going." We went to Tiajauna again. And I kid you not, after the dance, driving back across the border, almost, and we got stopped again, had to get out of the truck, put our hands on the truck, again. As Clark's looking across from me I said, "Oh isn't this familiar." Those were the adventures that Clark had. He liked to get out there and live life.

He was a great persuader. The only person ever to persuade me to shave my head. All of a sudden Clark said, "Let's shave our heads." I said "No way, I'm not going to shave my head." Thirty minutes later my head was shaved. Lots of memories with him, wresting in his family's house on the floor.

He starts a new adventure. An adventure to teach other people about the gospel of Jesus Christ. He lives. His spirit lives. The great blessings that our Father in Heaven promises us that we can be sealed for time and all eternity with the people that we love. I love Clark very much. He was a friend but more he was a brother, and I will always remember him as a brother.

Testify that Jesus is the Christ and he gave us a plan that we can return to live with him again and see our loved ones again.

Eric Larson - Clark and I had a pretty special relationship. Clark's personality was a bit shy but once you got to know him that went away, and a smile went upon his face. His first day of work, I was the guy on the tower with him that night after he'd worked all day. He looked so young. I asked him how he liked it. He said, "I don't like this every much at all." I thought in my mind, "Well this is his last day." He was very successful in what he did. I gave his some very difficult tasks to do that experienced people could not and would not do. That young guy, he could do it. Seldom, he would ask questions, and he would listen, and he would understand, and he would follow.

When we were in Florida working, we wanted to spend some time on the beach on the water. We worked first, got our job done, and we were hungry. Of course we hit the Burger King, you know we wanted some good food! Whoppers, Double Whoppers, extra cheese, fries, super size it if you can. We are hungry! Clark comes to the counter and says, "I'll have a side salad and an ice water." I look at him and think, "That guy's gotta be jokin'. I know he's hungry." I ask, "Clark, why don't you eat? We're going to be out there for awhile." His peers are standing there and he tries to speak real quiet and says, "I don't want to look bloated at the beach." I never stopped laughing about that. Back to the beach, it's time to start snorkeling. We're looking for creatures and critters and sure enough we come upon a jelly fish, a small jelly fish. I heard a scream under water, and sure enough by the time I poked my head up Clark was half way into shore already. I didn't know you could scream under water so loud.

Clark was very helpful. He would do anything for anybody. Being the way I am in the water I got stung by a jelly fish that day. Clark being pretty educated, he knows the first aid techniques for jelly fish stings, or what people say. I come in and my shoulder is pretty swelled up. Clark, he's ready to help. I said, "What are you doin?" "I heard peeing on ya helps it." I said, "No thanks. I'm willing to take my chances." He wanted to help.

I love my cousins. I really loved Clark. He taught me a lot. Honesty is a big one. I remember Drs coming in to ask medical questions. I would always stand up to excuse myself so he could talk honestly. He was never afraid to tell the truth. He would come into work and he would talk, tell me about his weekend. He had fun most of the time, or a bad weekend he would tell me. Music and downloading songs. Find free downloads. Not the most honest thing. I'm really going to miss that. Miss seeing his fingers on the keyboard and on his phone texting. I too had the opportunity to be with him that last day. I could hardly speak. One thing that gives me comfort is to know that all he did is leave his temporary home. He is home. He is gone from us but he is alive.

A letter that my 8 year old son wrote. Clark even touched lives of children. He came into me late one night after Clark had passed away and asked me to read this. "Every time I close my eyes I think of Clark. Clark was a brave young man til he died June 11 2010 he was 24. He was really healthy. Every time I think of his tears fall down my face. Clark was a hard worker. Something attacked his liver, then he had to have a bmt but he did not have enough money so he died but he's in heaven now so no more pain. That's a good thing. We all call him Super Clark now. He's a good man. Clark is my hero in many ways. The end."

Ryan Yoder - He's my first brother. Clark's a special boy to me. Clark couldn't really make you mad, you couldn't pick on him because he'd do whatever you wanted him to. He was very very easy to get along with and easy to talk to . The day he called me to tell me he was sick, with the crude family jokes we have, I would call him up and say, "Is it liver die?" Every day I called him it was liver. We prayed and prayed for him to get a liver. it was to allow this last year to really get to know Clark. He traveled and we lived pretty far from each other. This has brought us very close together I am so thankful that this liver allowed us this time with him. My family means so much to me. It's so awesome having a big family. Clark will always be with us. Clark we love you very much and we will see you again some day.

Bjorn Kimble - I don't have much to say but what I can say I have written in poem.

The yellow skinned boy was awaiting a new liver
Each day that went by his body grew sicker and sicker.
Finally the answer came and was being air delivered.
The operation was started without even a thought or a quiver
After some time he rose to his feet
That last Christmas with my brother felt so special and sweet
Not long after you were back to the beeping monitors and pain
feelings of helplessness were showered on everyone like clouds of rain
Clark's life was too valuable and short for a price
Boy, that man's decision sure wasn't very nice.
The passing was hard but I felt as if it wasn't real
This day has brought the toughest pain I've ever had to feel
I'll think of you and remember the good times, when I look from afar
Cause the sky will forever be lit by your bright Super Clark star.

Stan Lamb - D&C 42: 45 Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die, and more especially for those that have not hope of a glorious resurrection.

Quote from Pres Spencer W. Kimble who was the president of the church at the time Clark was born. "We knew before we were born that we were coming to the Earth for bodies and experience, and that we would have joys and sorrows, ease and pain, comforts and hardships, health and sickness, successes and disappointments. We also knew that after a period of life we would die. We accepted all these eventualities with a glad heart, eager to accept both the favorable and the unfavorable. We eagerly accepted the chance to come earth ward even though it might only be for a day or a year."

With the support of each other and our Heavenly Father, we will find a way to go on living without him here on Earth until we can see him again. The analogy of the hand being a spirit and the glove being the body. When we come to Earth, spirit and body come together. When the spirit is taken away, the body becomes lifeless. It doesn't mean that Clark doesn't move. The joy of the plan of salvation is that we know that a time will come when the body and spirit will be reunited, the resurrection. The part of Clark that looked out through his eyes, and allowed him to think, and smile, and act, and know, and be, will come back to his body and will rise again. Inside this chapel, we can't see very far because the walls block our view. We go outside and stand on top of a hill and we can see for miles and miles. The death that Clark has experienced is like him going through the doors, outside on top of that hill, and his view is no longer restricted.

Joseph F. Smith, "While we are in mortality we are clogged and we see as through a glass dark way. We see only in part and it is difficult for us to comprehend the smallest things with which we are associated. But when we put on immortality our condition will be very different, for we ascend into an enlarged sphere."

We will always remember Clark and his infections smile. Some people, it is not possible to talk to them without smiling. Clark was one of those people.

Stephen Huntington and Maze Snittjer performed "Going Home" as was done at Jim's funeral.

What Exactly Happened?

2010-06-17T22:32:00.005-06:00

We were all excited about Clark's slow and steady progress and the tension and anxiety had loosened some. In fact, after spending some precious time with Clark, even laughing about the most recent post I had put on Facebook in which I asked if anyone had connections with Obama to fly Wyatt out to Utah in his private leer jet, I can still see Clark's crooked little smile and chuckle. I recall that earlier in the night, while talking in his sleep, he said, "I gotta buy my mom a rosebush. She loves them for Mother's Day." We actually felt like celebrating that night because he was only on 30% oxygen and had hopes that by morning he would be accepted back on my insurance at Premier since he is 100% disabled, or that Medicaid would reconsider with Clark's improved health and the pressures of politicians. That's why it was 2:30 in the morning before Huxley, Clark, and I settled into bed. As he dozed away, Clark mumbled, "I've got to go door to door, fundraising. It's my last resort."

At 4PM I was startled awake by Clark's oxygen alarm going off. It seemed a bit different, however it wasn't uncommon for the alarm to sound when Clark was using the urinal. All we had to do was silence the alarm to quite the room. I stood to my feet and said, "Clark are you using the urinal?" He answered, "No" as he pulled the oxygen tubing from his nose and said, "I don't think there's any oxygen coming out of this thing." Meanwhile, I tried to override his alarm but was unsuccessful. I could see Clark's chest rise and fall, working hard to take in air, and the veins protruding from his neck. I turned the nurse call light on and went to the door to see if a nurse was nearby. When she came in, she immediately turned his oxygen to 6 liters, which didn't seem to help. We began to examine the oxygen sensor on his foot, and checked for a kink in the hose. Again, neither were true. By now, the nurse had moved Clark to 100% oxygen. When asked if he felt short of breath, Clark said that he was. By this time, it was approximately 4:30 AM and the nurse felt it was urgent enough to call the doctor in to examine Clark. He called respiratory therapy and they were quickly at Clark's bedside giving him a dilation treatment by mask, followed by a full oxygen mask providing 100% oxygen. Still no relief. It wasn't long before another respiratory therapist entered the room pushing a large machine. He explained to me that he was going to administer pressurized oxygen. They put a Darth Vader mask over Clark's face that forced air into his lungs. I could see him struggling from pain so they couldn't continue. By this time the floor doctor explained that they had called air med and the ICU doctors from the University to assist and were transporting him there by helicopter. I was shaking and had to go to the bathroom. I called Kristin and texted all the boys that things weren't well. It was 5 AM.

As I returned to Clark's room, I noticed that not only his room was filled with medical staff, but the hall way as well. They explained that they had to intubate him. All I could remember was that a nurse had told Kristin just days before that in this state, when a patient is intubated, they usually are never extubated. Huxley and I made our way through the staff to enter Clark's room. I touched his arm and got close to him and asked, "Clark, do you know what's going on?" He answered, "Yes, there are a lot of doctor's in my room." (Clark's last words to us.) I replied, "They are going to intubate you and take you to the University to watch you better." Clark showed no fear, even now.

The administrating doctor explained that Huxley and I should step out of the room because the intubation procedure was unpleasant. He reassured us that we could talk to Clark in a short while. Only minutes later, which seemed like an eternity, Clark was rolled out of his room by air med. I was disappointed to see that he was sedated but it was necessary for the procedure. They gave me a brief moment to kiss Clark on his lips, and even though he was asleep, I told Clark I would be right over to the University to be with him. Even though the two hospitals are connected by a walkway, it was necessary to transport him by air med because it is equipped with oxygen emergency care. The boys in South Dakota were rapidly texting with many questions of concern and by this time Kristin had arrived.

As we hurriedly walked from one hospital to the other, the attending explained that they think Clark either aspirated some fluid or a blood clot hit his lungs. Aspiration didn't make sense because of how Clark acted when it first started, as clueless as we were. If it was a blood clot they would give him blood thinners, which would be a risk with his low platelet count, but it gave us hope. We were escorted to the MICU unit by Clark's attending doctor. We were taken to a nearby waiting room where we realized that last July 28th, it was the same waiting room we nervously sat in at the onset of Clark's illness. The attending went in and came out with the report that they were having trouble getting him stabilized but that as soon as they did, we could come into his room, room 3, exactly the room he was admitted to in the beginning. We were joined in the waiting room by Bishop Sampson and Brother Bule, just as in the beginning. We nervously waited for another update.

A young doctor came in to explain that even with all the medication and equipment, they were still having trouble stabilizing Clark. His oxygen level was declining and his blood pressure dropping. They needed permission to insert an arterial line which monitors blood pressure second by second. He further explained what they expected to happen and what additional decisions we had to make on Clark's behalf. What life saving measures would Clark want? All? None? We told the doctor that we had not discussed this exactly with Clark but that he had once said, "He was willing to go through anything as long as he was alive in the end." The doctor asked if his heart stopped, would we want them to perform CPR. This can break ribs, and even if they did get his heart to start again, he had a close to 0% survival rate. We unanimously agreed that Clark would not want that. He then asked about the level of oxygen Clark was on and explained that it could cause his lungs to burst. To prevent that they would have to puncture his side to release pressure. We unanimously agreed against that also.

Once the arterial line was inserted, we were urgently taken to Clark's bedside. Again, the room and hall were swarming with doctors. As we proceeded to his room with caution, we could see glimpses of Clark through the many people at his side. My son, lay there, swollen and purple. With respect, we were escorted to Clark's side to say farewell. Huxley, my fine young man of 14, struggled greatly at witnessing the passing of his older brother. The beeping of the monitors began to slow, and the work of the medical staff became increasingly intense. Huxley turned his head and buried it in my shoulder, moaning and bawling from deep inside, "Oooooh! Oh my goodness!" as they drew blood from Clark's ventilator to clear the passage way. We called Ryan and put him on speaker phone to say his last words. "I love you buddy. You've fought hard. We're so proud of you." We knew that we were witnessing Clark dying. We held his hands, hugged him, said our final words, I kissed his lips and forehead, rubbed his cheek and held on tight. The doctor then said, "We have a small heart beat. Do you want us to administer fluids and blood." We agreed that we definitely did. We stepped out of the room while they found a better source to do this by.

Now in the hall, we were joined by more family members. We were made comfortable in a conference room nearby where family and friends reverently and solemnly gathered. We were permitted to enter Clark's room, two at a time. . The afternoon was filled with anxious waiting, reminiscent conversation, and deep thought. Back in South Dakota, the boys were doing the same. They had gathered at home and were looking through Clark's photo albums, sharing memories. Also during this time, Huxley, Kristin, and I returned to Clark's side, this time to call Myls, Wyatt, Fletcher, Bjorn, family friend Bart, and cousin Blake. By speaker phone, each said their good-byes. Myls said, "We've been through a lot together. I've always looked up to you. You're nothing short of my hero. I can't wait to see you again." Wyatt struggled for words but said I love you. Fletcher told him that he's a good big brother and a good role model. Blake apologized for not coming out to see Clark and said that he will regret it for the rest of his life. Bart said, "You've fought a good fight. I love you buddy."

While I was in the room alone with Clark, the doctor came in to and explained that Clark's brain had taken a hit earlier this morning, when we thought we'd lost him. During that time, Clark's heart was only functioning at 5% and his brain was without oxygen for 5-9 minutes. The doctor shined a light in Clark's eyes to show me that his pupils were dialated and he didn't respond to the light, indicating severe brain damage. He also explained the same to the room full of family and friends. He said that Clark could be sustained by the meds and machines that he was on but they would be surprised if he survived through the night. They said they would do whatever we wished but that we would just be prolonging the inevitable. We had thought that Clark was still sedated but now realized that he wasn't and his lack of responses was because of the brain damage. It was comforting to feel Clark squeeze our hand when we talked to him, even though we now know it was only reflexes. Bruce and Bishop Sampson gave Clark his final priesthood blessing in which the Bishop said," Heavenly Father is waiting for you. Go to him and find rest."

Kristin, Huxley and I entered Clark's room at about 7:00 PM MST. By this time, Clark was severely purple and extremely swollen to the point that you might expect his skin to explode. Neck and shoulders nearly similar in size because of the days infusions and fluid retention. Facial features had double in size and eyes protruding from pressure. Very hard to watch was the trickle of blood that constantly flowed from his mouth, down is neck and onto his pillow. We assured Clark that he had fought hard. We praised him for the good brother and son he had been. We told him how proud we are of him. We promised to take care of his dog and car. We told him that we had done all we could, he had done all he could, the doctor's had done all they could, and there was no medicine left to help him. I told him it was okay to go to heaven and be with his father. Kristin lay across his chest, hugging him and saying, "I'm sorry I didn't do this more often." She stayed there a moment, listening to him breath his final breaths, feeling his skin still warm, and smelling HIS scent. Unexpectedly we found a doctor by our side. This time offering options that were difficult to make, yet assuring us that Clark's time had come and that it was the machines keeping him alive. The options were to turn off blood pressure medication, pull the breathing tube, or leave the tube and just turn off oxygen and allow Clark to breathe on his own. Pulling the tube was not an option but the three of us agreed that the other two were our choice. These measures would allow Clark to peacefully pass and prevent any additional trauma for Clark and us as his body could not take much more.

We were given our last moments privately with Clark. Then the family and friends were called in from a nearby waiting room. Bishop Sampson offered a prayer for Clark's transition. Included in the room were Kristin and Kellen, Huxley, Bishop Sampson, Bruce and Illa Larson, Kate and Eric Larson and Kate's mom Karla Steck, Kelsey, and myself. We had a few moments of silence and then tapped on the window of his door, signaling to the nurse that we were ready. She first disconnected the blood pressure medicine. Then the oxygen was discontinued. Immediately, Clark's chest rose and fell deeply, laboring for oxygen. The monitors numbers rapidly declined. He inhaled comfortably a deep breath, followed by a long pause, then his final breath was received. The monitor we had been scrutinizing all day, quietly went black. It was then that I watched one final tear fall from Clark's right eye. I cleared it with my left hand, removed my right hand from his arm, and watched his color fade away. Clark had passed with his hand in ours, our hearts in his. We solemnly drew his curtains, left his room, and finally knew he had reached the end of his suffering and was at peace. Time of passing was recorded as 8:22 PM MST, June 11, 2010. Cause of death was septic shock (which is a fierce inferno of infection).

Those of us who had witnessed his death were now outside his room calling or texting that he had passed. I received a text back from Wyatt requesting that we have a family prayer by speaker phone with the boys back in South Dakota. After the prayer, we picked ourselves up, and walked out of the hospital for the last time. In route to home, we traveled through rain the entire way, feeling comforted that it was tears from heaven.

Utah Funeral

2010-06-15T20:19:00.001-06:00

Kristin Purles - Reading of Eulogy. It will be hard to feel his absence in our home. We were blessed to have Clark living with us. We learned so much from him, his spirit, his character. I will cherish those memories like going into his room to find Willow sitting on his bed reading him stories and singing him songs. I hope his spirit will always remain in our home and we can continue to live by his example.

Eric Bischke - It's an honor and a privilege to pay respects to one of my dearest friends. Clark is one of those people who everyone wants to be around, is always happy, never has an ill word to say about anybody, always smiling, joking, and treating others with great respect. I am confident that Clark will continue to play a role in our lives. He will warn us of dangers ahead, prompt us to serve those in need, or simply testify truth to us.

I have know Clark since he was 12 years old and have developed a great love and appreciation for him. Clark's email in high school was something along the lines of superclark@hotmail.com. I didn't know how fitting this nickname would become. Shortly after meeting Clark his father passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. Jim's passing left Clark to help raise the family and he became a father figure. Clark and I held several jobs together. William's Carpet - flexible schedule made it hard to get to work. We had a routine that we stuck to very closely. First to McDonald's for a Big Mac value meal, then to my home for NFL2K on Sega Dream Cast. On days where more work was in store, we fit two or three games in. Despite this, our employers said we were the best tandem they had ever employed.

After high school we moved to Utah and he joined the tower crew. Clark was thrown into the fire but flourished at his job and became crew chief. He always gave his best effort, and never asked others to do a task he wasn't willing to do himself. I never dreaded a day when I knew I'd be working alongside Clark.

Admiral qualities. Have never seen anyone drive him to anger. Kindhearted and all you could hope for in a friend plus much, much more. When working, we picked up a roll of carpet and out scurried a tiny little mouse. I picked up a ten foot cardboard tube, swung at the mouse and somehow I hit it. Clark picked up the mouse and with a tear in his eye uttered the words, "Oh Templeton." The pride I had felt turned to disappointment. I had a better understanding of how tenderhearted Clark was.

When I went to visit Clark in the hospital, I would ask him how he was doing His response never changed as he said everything would be alright. How could he say that? He was battling pain and agony, surgeries and blood transfusions, not to mention the mounds of medications that faced him everyday. He had hope and trusted that God would take care of him. Well, I believe that God has made everything OK. Clark and everyone that loves him did everything humanly possible to keep him here with us, but it was not to be. I know he will never have to take another pill, suffer another surgery, or spend another night alone in his hospital bed. He is now in a perfect form.

Clark has lived a life with faith in our Father in Heaven. He will be resurrected and live with our Father in Heaven again through the atonement of our Savior. Clark we love you and miss you. I know your father Jim was waiting for you on the other side of the veil with open arms in anticipation of finally seeing you again. Super Clark, through your kindness, honesty, humility and love, you have laid a path for us all to follow. Clark, I am grateful for the opportunity to bid you farewell until we meet again.

Bishop Sampson - I didn't want to follow Johny. He came early to practice and I had to go to the other room and cry. On July 28, 2009, my life would start a journey that would last almost a year and change my life forever. I got a call from the Relief Society Pres informing me that Clark was in the hospital. When we got to the hospital, Clark was as yellow as that sheet. I'm just a mechanic and I don't know what that means. I asked Clark if he needed anything and his response was, "No, I'm good to go" and I'm thinking, "Didn't you look in a mirror before you came here?" But that was his response every time until the very last moment.

A lot of spiritual things happened in that hospital. I met Clark's mother for the first time down in the lunch room. I walked in and I'm a young bishop that was way out of his league. Clark needed a liver now or he would pass. The doctor came in and gave us the news that they had a liver. The next day we were in the waiting room. Friday I visited that waiting room and all the memories came back. I see Huxley sleeping on the floor. I see family members coming and going as we waited while they did the surgery. It was a pretty big room and we were in the very back. A lady walked in and looked around, making her way right to the back of the room. She asked, "You wouldn't happen to be LDS would you? Is there anyone here who could give my husband a blessing?" I was volunteered very quickly by the family. As I helped give a blessing to this young man I knew about the power of the priesthood. I left that room knowing that that man would be fine.

As we waited they would call and give updates on Clark's surgery. It went on and on until the wee hours of the morning. Sis Kimble got a call and we hear her scream, a scream that will make the hairs on your head stand up. She told us that they couldn't hook up a main artery to the liver. I remember that I had said, "Don't worry. They will get it." Then I thought, "Why did I say that? They have been working on it for hours." I started to pray to my Father in Heaven that they would get it hooked up. A few minutes later the phone rang and she let out another scream, a happy scream because they got it hooked up. I know that my Father in Heaven hooked that liver up. The doctors came out and they were so impressed with themselves. I hate to tell them it wasn't them. It was our Father in Heaven who guided their hands. It was a wonderful testimony builder of how prayer works in our lives.

Clark had gone a few nights without sleep because he was in so much pain. I got a call asking me to come up to give him a blessing. I asked, "What would you like?" He said, "I would like to be able to sleep." I remember thinking before I gave the blessing, "Do I have the faith that I can give him a blessing that he will sleep through the night." I gave him that blessing and went home and got on my knees. He slept like a baby, I was up the whole night praying. When I called the nest morning they said he slept better then he had in a long time. The power of the priesthood.

A few weeks later, Rhonda put me in charge while they went to South Dakota. This was the most tender time I ever spent with Clark, that time that it was just me and him. They set up a camera so that Clark could see the party. Clark wasn't having a great day and didn't want to do it. I said, "I don't care. I'm afraid of your mom. I'm not afraid of you." Clark's voice was very weak. Clark was telling me what was going on in South Dakota, all the preparations, and about cooking a pig in the ground. When he said it I thought he said he wanted to pee on the ground. I said, "Just go ahead and pee. You've got a catheter." He starts to laugh. We get laughing so hard. Finally I leave the room because every time we look at each other we'd laugh.

We talked about a lot of gospel things. We talked about girls. We talked about cars. There were a couple things Clark wanted in his life. One, a beautiful car, which he had. Two, he wanted a family, which he will have. The other thing he wanted was to be sealed to his family. He talked about that a lot. I never met a young man who loves his family more than Clark did. He loves his sister who took care of him no matter what. He loves his brothers. Everyone of them. It was a wonderful time and I want to thank you for letting me have that opportunity.

One day while in the parking lot of the hospital, talking with his mother, she taught me something that I will never forget. This is how bad I am. Here's his bishop and I ask, "Why?" and it was Clark's mom that reminded me about the plan of salvation. She said, "Remember that we chose all this." Elder Nelson put it this way, "Life does not begin with birth, nor does it end with death. Prior to our birth, we dwelled as spirit children with our Father in Heaven. There we eagerly anticipated the possibility of coming to earth and obtaining a physical body. Knowingly we wanted the risks of mortality, which would allow the exercise of agency and accountability. This life was to become a probationary state; a time to prepare to meet God. But we regarded the returning home as the best part of that long-awaited trip, just as we do now. Before embarking on any journey, we like to have some assurance of a round-trip ticket. Returning from earth to life in our heavenly home requires passage through—and not around—the doors of death. We were born to die, and we die to live. As seedlings of God, we barely blossom on earth; we fully flower in heaven."

I invited him over for Easter. I said, "You might be bored but I guarantee you'll have some good food." It's the best I've ever seen him eat. We decided to play Chinese checkers. Clark shook a lot on all his very many medications. He would go to hit and he would win every game. I think he was cheating. Clark became part of our family. I told his mother the other day that he was my son. He truly was. I was truly honored to be his bishop.

A few days ago in the hospital, Clark went to reach for something and he couldn't get it. I said, "What do you need?" This is the only time I ever heard Clark complain. He said, "I need a new life." I told him it was coming. I know that Clark has a new life. I know he is not in pain anymore. I know that he is working today. When this all started I asked him what he wanted he said, "All I want is to go back to work." Clark is back to work. He is doing his Heavenly Father's work and he will be phenomenal.

To the Kimble family, may I thank you for the time you have allowed me to be part of your family. I know that I will see Clark again and what a glorious day that will be. It will be only a moment in time when I will be reunited with this great man who taught me so much. As a bishop I was told that my first duty was to teach. I don't think I've taught a thing, but I've learned a lot. Clark, thank you so very much.

Funerals

2010-06-14T00:25:00.004-06:00

Funeral to be held in Lehi, Utah, Tuesday, June 15th at 11:00AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints - 496 S 2800 W, Lehi, Ut, 84045. A viewing will be held at 10:00AM.

Funeral to be held in Watertown, SD, Saturday, June 19 at 11:00 at the First United Methodist Church - 4 Second Avenue SE. Viewing to be held Friday at the Wight, Comes & Sogn Funeral Chapel from 4-8PM and at 10:00AM on Saturday at funeral location.

You are all invited. You have been with us every step of the way through cyberspace but now would like to have you with us in person as we celebrate Clark's life.

KELOLAND

2010-06-13T21:08:00.006-06:00

WATERTOWN, SD - A Watertown family is saying goodbye to a son, brother, and their hero.

Clark Kimble was a 25 year old (24) who enjoyed listening to music and spending time with friends and family. But one year ago his liver shut down and doctors don't know why. After dozens of hospital stays and transfusions, Clark lost his fight. Now four of his brothers are remembering Super Clark.

“I looked up to him and he always looked out for me,” Wyatt Kimble said.

“It feels like someone's being robbed from you, something's being stolen,” Fletcher Kimble said.

“Always my brother, always there,” Bjorn Kimble said.

“The hardest thing for me is knowing that you can't call him. That's the hardest for me, you can never talk to him again, no matter how bad you need him,” Myls Kimble said.

Clark was one of eight children in the close-knit Kimble family.

“I think he was fighting for everybody else not just himself. He knew how much everyone looked up to him and just trying to be a good big brother,” Myls said.

Last July Clark noticed his skin and eyes yellowing, and doctors discovered his liver was failing. They put Clark on the transplant list for a new liver, and a month later that liver came. (It was only a couple days later. That's all the time he had.)

“You never knew that this was going to happen, I mean we figured if he got a new liver everything would be alright,” Bjorn said.

But it wasn't. Clark's body rejected the organ. The next step would be a bone marrow transplant, and two brothers were a match. (His body never rejected the liver. They believe that the virus that initially attacked his liver moved to his bone marrow.)

“Some days you go to bed thinking everything is ok and then the next thing you wake up and things turn for the worse,” Wyatt said.

Medical bills were piling up, and Medicaid denied Clark's request for the bone marrow procedure. For months, the Kimble’s fought three separate appeals, finding out just a week ago that they'd lost again.

“He had to have the worst problems in the world but he handled them better than anybody I know,” Wyatt said.

But his family's love and support wasn't enough to keep him going any longer. Friday evening he died.

“Who knows how long any of us is going to live? And we're going to be a brother short the rest of our lives,” Fletcher said.

“I know Clark wouldn't want us to sit in our rooms. He'd want us out there and keep living,” Myls said.

Now together, they'll remember their big brother, a man they called Super Clark and a super hero.

“It's hard to have anyone gone in your life but you know he's still there and that he loves you,” Bjorn said.

Funeral services are set for Saturday, June 19 at 11:00. Viewing to be held Friday at the Wight Comes & Sogn Funeral Chapel at 4:00.

Funds have been set up for the Kimble family at Reliabank and Plains Commerce banks in Watertown.

At Peace At Last

2010-06-11T21:01:00.015-06:00

"Super" Clark Spencer Kimble

July 27, 1985 - June 11, 2010

Clark went to heaven at 8:22 tonight surrounded by family
on both sides of the veil.

Nothing Short of a Hero

2010-06-11T14:00:00.003-06:00

Clark was doing great last night as my mom and Huxley stayed with him. He ate a few crackers, drank some water and juice, and talked and laughed. They had just laid down to sleep when Clark's alarms started going off. They tried to silence them but they wouldn't turn off. A nurse came in and immidiately increased his oxygen to 60% but his sats didn't come up. Then to 100% and still no response. Clark was awake and aware but didn't know what had caused this. The room flooded with doctors. Clark was sedated, intubated, and flown by helecopter to the ICU at the Univeristy Hospital, even though the two are connected and you can walk between them. He is currently on the 4th floor in the MICU. It's earie being back here. We are in the exact same place, same room, same nurses, that we started with the first time Clark came here almost a year ago.

They are having a tough time keeping his oxygen and blood pressure up. We were asked that if his heart should stop, would Clark want then to do CPR. We agreed that they should not. Often times ribs break and it causes other damage and he wouldn't want that. The doctor also said that even if they were to get his heart to start again, he has near to 0% survival rate.

Clark is now resting peacefully. He is not responding but we believe he hears us. Family has gathered here in Utah and in South Dakota. We have said our last words and are trusting in Heavenly Father's will for Clark at this time. He's fought a long hard fight and touched more people in the last year than most will touch in their lifetime. As Myls said to Clark, "You are nothing short of my hero. I love you and I can't wait to see you again!"

What can I do?

2010-06-11T02:25:00.001-06:00

How grateful we are to have such a force behind Clark. Everyone is asking how they can help and that's exactly what we need. We are trying to figure out the best way to go about fundraising. We have to do it legally considering taxes and write offs as well as being in control of the funds. It's tricky stuff that I don't have any experience with. Keep the fire under ya and we'll let you know how to use it. We will be accepting donations and encourage people to organize their own fundraisers to reach more people. We have designed a T-shirt and will let you know when they are ready to order.

All the requests that have been sent to people of influence are very important too. If you would like to contact anyone, be sure to be polite as you are representing Clark's name. We have been advised to make sure we let them know that this is an emergency situation, we are not going away, we won't take no for an answer, and an appeal is urgent. It also helps to put a face on Clark by stating your relationship and maybe something about his character. Like, "I went to school with Clark and he was always so nice . . . "

This advise comes straight from a senator's office - "I know on Clark's blog, people are asking what they can do to help - what if you had them write letters/emails to you that you could print off and enclose with your appeal letter demonstrating the reasons they want Clark to have this transplant? They could be very powerful letters and would supplement the medical reasons that I'm sure his doctors will talk about."

Donations can be made through Paypal using the button on the blog. Also to the "Save Clark Kimble" account at Reliabank in Watertown. There are donation boxes set up all over Watertown at businesses such as all three Cowboys, two Reliabanks, and LT's liquor with more to come.

If you plan or want to do a fundraiser, please fill out this form.

More Like You

2010-06-10T00:11:00.007-06:00

There is a phenomenal amount of people behind Clark right now. Many who we know, and others who we don't, are offering their money, time, and services to help. There is an incredibly gigantic feet ahead of us that alone, is almost impossible. But with the overwhelming support we have received, I know we can do the impossible. Within a matter of hours, there are fundraisers being organized across the country including the selling or bracelets and T-shirts, benefit concerts, 5k/10k runs, raffles, yard sales, donation boxes, radio adds, and more. What a force you are! I have been so touched by you. I wonder what I would do if I was in a similar situation, having read about a friend or stranger who needed help. I think I would say, "I'm too far away to help," "I don't have enough money to donate," "I wish there was something I could do but I don't know what." Hopefully I will never say those things again. Even though they are true, you have shown me that there is always some way to help. Your example is forever etched in my heart and will move my hands to action. Thank you!

I received a call to day from Orrin Hatch's office letting me know that everyone in their office is aware of our situation. "In fact," she said, "everyone in the state is aware of this situation." She dropped the names of a couple other people in high up places that we have caught the attention of. She said, "I don't know how you're doing this, but you have reached a lot of important people in a short amount of time." I responded, "Just so you know, the few phone conversations with you is all that I have done myself. The rest has been done by the free will of all of Clark's followers." She was very impressed. She said she was just calling to update me and assure me that this matter is not being pushed aside. I said, "Thank you for letting us know that because we have not received even that much consideration in the past. It helps us keep moving."

From The Man Himself, Thank You Everyone

2010-06-09T20:26:00.005-06:00

Please scroll to the bottom to pause or mute the music before pushing play in order to hear this beautiful message from Clark.

"Hey, my name is Clark Kimble. Thanks everyone for following on my blog. I know it's getting long and extending. Thank you for following and getting to know me more as a person. I hope I, I hope this has inspired your life as well. Thank you."

Don't Mess!

2010-06-08T17:05:00.008-06:00

Clark signed privacy release forms from SD Senator Tim Johnson, SD State Represenative Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, and Utah's Senator Orrin Hatch. SD Senator John Thune's office also gave me a call and offered any assistance they could be. Each office has personally called Kristin and me and have been extremely helpful.

We received Medicaid's disappointing decision six hours ago. We are appealing this denial and we won't take no for an answer and we aren't going away. Since then we've talked directly to Orrin Hatch's office (Utah senator), South Dakota senators John Thune and Tim Johnson and SD Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, KSL (Utah news station), the Utah Health Policy Project, the head directors of several departments at the Huntsman, and have been told by a senator that this has reached a national level.

Don't Mess!

Strike Three and Medicaid is OUT

2010-06-08T10:33:00.010-06:00

Our words are few but the wait with Medicaid is over. Family gathered at Clark's side this morning to hear that Medicaid has again, DENIED Clark's BMT. We were all silent for several moments in deep thought of "now what?" Clark looked at me and asked "what, did Medicaid deny me?" I hesitated to answer him, but found a way to nod my head yes. We are all shocked and disappointed but we aren't giving up. WE WILL NOT GIVE UP!!!

We will need to do fund raisers etc, and do them quick as all money needs to be paid up front before the transplant can happen. We met with the head of the financial department this morning. She said we need to come up with $427,225.00 to even begin and that is only an estimated cost. Clark is currently covered under Medicaid until November of 2010 so this means they are covering all his hospital stays, transfusions, etc. If we self support the finances for the BMT, then anything related to the transplant at all, Medicaid will not cover. Their reason for denial is Clark doesn't meet their criteria for approval. That he is a "rare" case and they can not support the BMT.

Clark had a good night last night. Ryan and Myls stayed with him. His oxygen level has gotten even better over night. They will continue with the same treatment for today. We are waiting to talk to other medical staff today. Meanwhile some of the family members will be heading back to South Dakota today. Huxley and I will stay in Utah to be Clark's constant companions. We are very grateful for Clark's improvements but unfortunately it won't be enough to sustain him without the BMT.

Keep The Faith

2010-06-07T19:09:00.009-06:00

Super Clark is fighting many nemesis' right now but none have been able to overpower him. This super hero refuses to be defeated.

Monday's Updates:

Clark is holding his O2 sats higher each day. He is now able to wear nasal oxygen rather than the mask. When he takes it off, it's more than 5 minutes before he desats and has to put it back on, yesterday it was only 10 seconds. He has been coughing much less.
He is using slightly less pain meds.
He hasn't had a fever in days.
He held down a banana and a few bites of yogurt and granola.
They put a pic line in. When the antibiotics are administered through the veins, it is hard on the veins and they become diluted. Through the pic line they are more effective and get into his system much faster.
His lower back and tail bone have been hurting him because he's been in bed for days. He wanted to get up and with assistance, was able to stand and move to sit in a chair.
He is very picky about staying shaven so he has been fixated with getting cleaned up. Wyatt shaved him today and he looks and feels much better.
The doctors are going to leave his treatment the same for now.
Clark tried to get on Facebook but couldn't get logged on before he fell asleep.Brothers passing time in Clark's room. There's a limit to 3 visitors in the room at a time. You can see that we follow instructions well.Wyatt, serving any way he can.Clark, all spiffed up ready for prom. He said he'll have to go in a wheelchair.First time out of bed in days.

Doctors are amazed at how well he's doing so quickly. He has enjoyed having family around. Our spirits are high and our faith is strong. Thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement. It all helps.

Phenomenal

2010-06-06T11:15:00.002-06:00

Bishop Sampson was telling me about the special mantel you have over people as part of his calling. He said that the first time he ever saw Clark, he walked into sacrament meeting and sat in the back of the chapel. Out of all the people there, Clark stood out to him. There was spirit to spirit communication and he knew he had to get to know Clark. He said, "There's something about that young man. There's something phenomenal in Clark."

Bishop Sampson's daughter asked him, "Why does Clark have to go through this?" He said, "I thought about it, and the only thing I could think of is so that he can become more like his Father in Heaven."

One Last Fight

2010-06-06T09:51:00.012-06:00

We have warned the hospital staff that we have a big family and to expect lots of people here in the next few days. Even with the warning I think they underestimated the Kimbles! Family has arrived and are at Clark's side.

Report from Doctor's Morning Rounds:
We've talked to several doctors who all express their extreme worry because of Clark's condition. He is on as broad a spectrum of antibiotics as exists, without improvements.

He has an inflammatory pneumonia that is getting worse. He is on 70% oxygen now and keeping his O2 sats up pretty well with the mask on. When he takes the mask off, he desaturates very quickly. If he needs 100% oxygen, they have to intubate him.

He has developed cellulitus which is inflammation of the cells due to infection. He has redness, swelling, and extreme pain in his legs and arms. They have drawn a line around the perimeter of the affected areas to monitor the spreading. Today, it looks slightly better in his legs but much worse in his right arm. If he is going to respond to the most recent antibiotic, they would hope to see the redness improve by tomorrow.

His kidneys are also taking a big hit due to the caliber of meds he's on. They don't think that they have any permanent damage and once the meds were reduced or stopped his kidney's should recover and be fine. However, the longer they are insulted the more they will decline.

Clark said he ate pizza the night before last but I think that's the last thing he's eaten (besides a piece of dark chocolate that Bishop coaxed him into eating.) He said he wanted Taco Bell last night so we brought him a beefy 5 layer burrito but that went untouched. Jokingly, I offered it to him again this morning, a day old just the way he likes it. His throat has been sore so he ate a popsicle this morning, one bite at a time in between keeping the mask on. He threw it up only minutes later. He ordered biscuits and gravy this morning so we'll see how that goes. He is receiving glucose water through IV but no other nutrition. The two forms, through the nasal passage or directly into the vein, both come with risk of infection, bleeding, and effects to the liver, all of which are very dangerous to Clark. They will discuss what to do about this if/when the time comes.

His mouth has been dry and he had black sores on his tongue and lips. We're offering him water, brushed his teeth and tongue a few times, and keep a mouth lubricant on them so this looks better today.

He has been having terrible reoccurring nightmares. He said that he is in a dark hole looking up. He can see lots of people standing around looking down on him and crying. Then a door shuts and everything goes black and he realized that he's in his coffin. The doctor said the nightmares are a side effect of a medicine but I know how real dreams can feel and that would be awful. Especially when what you wake up to is laying in a hospital bed, alone. I stayed the night with him last night and didn't notice that he'd had a nightmare.

His eyesight in his right eye is a little better today. Doctors said that he has a retinal hemorrhage and that the bleeding may be lightening up since his vision is improved.

He has had reoccurring fevers for a few nights that have kept the doctors concerned. However, last night he did NOT have any fevers! Whoo Hoo!

We are seeing effects mentally as well. He is very dozy, in and out of sleep within minutes. He cannot focus or concentrate on anything for very long. He speak coherently and is very bright even telling me the exact cost of his Taco Bell order, then will train off about something else. He's giving us some good laughs too. He said he hopes the Lakers lose so he can give Bobby crap. This morning he was talking to McLane saying, "Hey bud, what are you up to?" He told me that McLane was up to no good. The next second he snapped out of it, realized he was hallucinating and told me that he thought McLane was at his side reaching up for the ice on his table. He calls out for Hemi a lot telling her to "get in here" or says that she needs to go outside. He saw a transformer flying in his room, told Bischke that he saw his Beretta a few days ago (a car that he had in high school), and asked me if I was using a cream on my face because it was all red, rashy and broke out. When he snaps out of it he always apologizes. It's hard not to laugh at him, and it's probably good for us that we do.

The doctors also expressed their great frustration with Medicaid, which we all share. The hospital was calling Medicaid daily for two weeks looking for an answer. They have now been told that they are no longer allowed to call. As enraging as that is, we want them to help us so we are trying to keep them happy and not give them any negative feelings surrounding this case. We still wait everyday hoping it's the day for a positive answer. We will talk to Dr. Boyer tomorrow to see if a bone marrow transplant is an option in Clark's condition or if he would have to improve first. It's hard to see Clark and Wyatt, side by side, within an arms reach of each other and know that one literally has life to give to the other, but they can do nothing.

When I asked Clark how he's feeling about everything he said, "It's probably bad to say but I feel like I'm not going to wake up one of these times." He got scared yesterday when Kellen and I walked in the room, followed by Bruce, Logan, and Bischke in white shirts and ties. He asked if the appeal had been denied.

Overall we are staying positive! The doctor started to say his sorries to me again and I told him that we are still hopeful and that we have seen Clark pull through a lot. This morning Clark told me that he has one fight left in him . . . but I think he used it to brush his teeth! Clark is a fighter and so are we. I have put my 100% faith in Heavenly Father as Clark's healer. Doctors, medicine, surgeries and treatments can only do so much, and they have. I have turned it over to Heavenly Father's hands as he knows what's best for Clark. As said in Clark's most recent blessing, the Lord has caused the lame to walk, the blind to see, and even raised people from the dead. As I watched the sun come up over the mountain this morning, I saw it light up the sky, the clouds, the grass and everything it touches. How beautiful is this world. He created all this and what a magnificent creation it is. He has done all this and there is no doubt in my mind that he can heal Clark.

We Need Your Prayers Its Not A Very Good Day!

2010-06-05T15:26:00.008-06:00

Unfortunately I'm writing a very sad and worrisome post. I talked with Clark several times over the past couple days. Warning signs were very evident. He was confused, hard to understand and back on oxygen so he was hard to hear through a mask, his joints have been weak and he had collapsed yesterday. Clark called me this morning, still confused and I wasn't sure I could believe all he told me, as he included that he needed to get to his hair appointment this afternoon but needed to get discharged first. I knew that he wasn't getting out of the hospital in his condition for a hair cut. He said he was tired so I told him I'd call him later today. I went on my way to Summit to visit my mother's grave and on the way home I had an area code (801) come up on my phone which is Utah. Anxious to hear that it was news that the BMT had been approved. although it was much different. It was one of Clark's doctors. He told me that Clark had taken a turn for the worse. That his fevers had started to flare up, so much testing had been done in the past two days. Test showed that Clark now has a severe infection in his lungs which is requiring him to be on oxygen. That he also has developed a skin infection recently, in addition to dehydration which has caused his veins to collapse. While in the hospital, they have worked hard to stay on top of it all and have now started the very strongest and last possible antibiotic they can. There is nothing more left to combat the increased and severe infections. So the doctor said that even though they want to be hopeful the antibiotics will work, they said anything can happen due to his sudden turn for the worse. He advised me to come out immediately. What a horrible, no good, day! Screaming and crying immediately took me over once I got off the phone. I was angry and I needed to vent. I called family members who joined in my sadness and worry. Bags were quickly packed and we headed to Utah. Dave, Wyatt, Myls, the dog (Mercedes) and I in one car. Soon to leave will be Fletcher, Bjorn and Huxly coming out with Bart Moeller, they will pick up Ryan in Sioux Falls. We continue to hold on to the small bit of hope. Can we have one more miracle dear Lord? Please let us keep Clark. He has been such a vailient and strong soldier in this fight, don't take him now.

We still have no word from Medicaid. The doctors were told to quit calling their office because they knew this was urgent and would have an answer soon. So we have waited but it looks like we could have been fored to wait too long. Poor Clark just can't fight the unforgiving infections with no help from his very own body - for he has tried SOOO hard and SOOO long.

Please pray for him. Please beg with every breath you have that Clark can hold on and fight, fight, fight. Thank You. I appreciate all who have stayed by our side through this long and grusome journey.

Who Is This Angel?

2010-06-04T07:28:00.038-06:00

I have written a couple specific posts as to who Clark Kimble is but today I want to concentrate on who Kristin Kimble, now Kristin Purles is. Today, June 04, 2010 is Kristin's 27th birthday and I feel impressed to let you know who this very special daughter of mine is, and who this sister is, and who this very special care taker is, and who this wife and mother is, and who this friend is. She IS and ALWAYS has been an angel.

Kristin Lacy is my second born child of eight children. She is my only daughter, mathematically leaving that to be that I have seven sons. She was a bright child, learning was easy for her and at a very young age she could recite nursery rhymes and stories that we all enjoyed.

Kristin was on the Watertown Dance team that excelled in all their performances. They danced at half time of the basketball games and some wrestling meets in Watertown, always drawing a big crowd. The team was filled with excitement and enthusiasm, and might I add "good looks" that kept the crowds attention. Jim, Ryan, and I were lucky enough to go with the team to San Antonio, Texas for the National Dance Team Competition in which our little group of girls from Watertown, SD won it all. Those were truly some great years with Kristin. After moving to Utah, she continued to compete in dancing but changed gears some as Salsa became her favorite. She still loves to dance today but doesn't find much time to do it now that she has a family. However when coming to SD, she still loves to dance to the good ole polka and waltzes that my family grew up on.

Kristin graduated from WHS on May 27, 2001

My brother Bruce Larson and I moved Kristin
from SD to Provo, Utah where she attended BYU.

She was offered a great job as a Nanny for a wonderful family in Pennsylvania in which she did take. She was able to enjoy the East Coast and all it offered while being with them.

Kristin's love for Utah never left her heart so she decided it was time for her to pack her bags, leave PA and head back to Utah. This time her life would change forever. She found another wonderful family to Nanny for. While attending the singles ward, she met her future husband. Just months later they were married. Since, they have given me two beautiful grandchildren, Willow and McLane.

So that brings us to today. As you can see she has always been a joy for me as a mother. When Jim died, she stepped up at age 15 and helped me raise the younger boys as if they were her very own. I needed her dearly. She has served so willingly to Clark over the past many months. She has made many sacrifices that we will never know about because she is so silent in her giving. Kristin has been the ROCK in our family. She is solid in her beliefs. She is an extraordinary example to all. She is a gift to me. It gives me pleasure as I watch her living her life and raising her family when I see or hear things I used to say or do while I was raising her. On a recent visit to her home I heard Willow screaming and crying that she wanted something. Kristin gently and quietly said, "Willow, I can't hear you, my ears don't work when you scream so loud". Willow quieted herself and then repeated herself in a much more acceptable way. I smiled and held back tears because I could then see what I used to do. Her kitchen is much like mine, her recipes are much like mine, and I am thankful for those things. I was a much smaller example to her than she has been to me. Kristin is a strong leader in our church and magnifies the callings she has been assigned to. Kristin runs everyday. Over the past months she has been training for a marathon coming up next week. She currently is running up to 12 miles a day (about 2 hrs and all non stop). In a couple more weeks, she will be one of twelve members who are running 188 miles though the mountains of Utah. This is the type of girl Kristin is. She will challenge herself and always BE her best. Quite a package that started at 9 lbs 3 oz and now is a whopping 117#. Amazing! Her mental and physical strength is unbelievable. May she achieve all she desires in this life, on the wings of "her" angel. Happy Birthday Kristin! I love you so deeply, Love Mom

PS No word from the Judge yet, we continue to hope and pray it will be soon. Clark is still in the hospital fighting with sinus infections. Just something he picked up in the air he breathes. Poor kid.

Re Re Re Re Admitted

2010-05-27T14:20:00.002-06:00

We have all been on the edge of our seats with nerves putting cramps in our stomachs and flutters in our hearts as we anxiously await an answer. I held my breath as I listen to the message left on Clark's phone from the Huntsman Center. Just another update. Due to the length of Dr. H's spewing, the disadvantage of Clark's doctor's having to leave the hearing early, and that one of his key doctors wasn't there, the judge asked the doctors to write a letter on Clark's behalf. She called the Huntsman yesterday to let them know that she had received the letters and would make her decision as soon as possible. There's only a few hours left in today's work day, government offices are not in on Fridays, and Monday is a holiday. So if we don't hear in the next couple hours, we're looking at middle of next week. That's THREE WEEKS! I do feel that her asking for the letters is to Clark's advantage because they will be the freshest on her mind. The coordinator at the Huntsman said they were very compelling letters so maybe they will play on emotion more than medical numbers and figures. We have asked for a copy of the letters and are wanting to read them ourselves. Clark has won the hearts of the staff at all three hospitals he frequents and they have told me that they are also anxiously awaiting an answer.

When I took Clark up to the Huntsman yesterday to have his eye checked out I didn't think I'd be coming home without him again. Ha, I just realized I'm letting you know he was readmitted and didn't even have time to tell you he was released. He made it three days this time. He was discharged on Sunday afternoon and readmitted Wednesday afternoon. I took him up for an appointment and was wandering the halls with the kids while he went back. After an hour or so I saw two nurses pushing someone out in a wheelchair. He was hunched over in the chair, all wrapped up in a blanket and hooked up to IVs. I thought, "Oh, that poor guy is not doing too well." My heart fell into my stomach when I realized it was Clark.

He has been waking with a fever every morning which goes away after a few hours but because of his condition and that it is reoccurring they want to check it out. His eye has also been causing him a lot of pain which leads to head aches, and is still very blurry. They will call in a specialist to look into what is causing this issue. Hopefully nothing serious but in his state it's always better to be safe than sorry. He is at the Huntsman, which makes being hospitalized a little easier on him. He can even order peanut butter and cheese sandwiches if he wants.

2010-05-26T11:24:00.005-06:00

Some wear their heart on their sleeve.
I wear mine on my chest, engraved in scar tissue in the shape of a wishbone.

I wish for good health.
I wish for a restored immune system.
I wish for a mortal future with a family of my own.
I wish for a bone marrow transplant.
I wish for a miracle.
I wish for life.

I wish for blessings to be poured upon everyone
who loves me, cares for me,
and prays for a miracle for me.

Thank you!

Clark Kimble
May 26, 2010

(Written by Clark's aunt in his voice)

No Word Yet

2010-05-26T06:43:00.004-06:00

What a long day! Waiting by the phone every minute of the entire day, finally giving up. I'm hoping no news is good news. I have no answers. I don't know why we didn't hear anything and I don't know when we will - only hoping it will be today. Government office??? Wyatt and I are anxious to get on the road. We will post something as soon as we hear. Thank you for your support and all I can offer right now is to wait with us. It has been hard but stay beside us please.

Hear Our Prayers

2010-05-24T21:51:00.006-06:00

Tonight the wind doth blow so hard in South Dakota. As if a storm is about to come in. Its the chatter of our prayers being carried to your door Lord! Whether it be voices loud, or whispers silent, they flow a steady stream to you tonight. As night closed in on the day and then windows to heaven seemed to close, we pray thou heard our final prayers and pleas this eve. I know prayers are thundering from most everywhere, from South Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska, Iowa, Louisiana, South Carolina, Washington, Georgia, Kansas, Wyoming, Nevada, and Utah just to name a few. But prayers no where else can be spoken so earnestly loud, then from a darkened room in Utah, where a young man lay, wanting life more than anything else. Please hear his prayer. He is my son and your son Lord, please grant the bone marrow transplant. Though his father is gone yet his spirit lives, I know he is praying tonight from near your throne. Hear his grandparents and many other relatives that have gone on before, I know we all agree. Please oh Lord, let it be. And Lord would it be asking too much, if not only to give him a long and healthy life. But could he run, return to work, have children and a good wife?

Please silent the winds, calm the storms, bring light into the morn. Give us peace when we awake, settle our minds, rest our weary eyes, and our trembling lips. Remove the doubt, build up our spirits and prepare us for the decision we will hear from Judge Quinn. Might there be no question to the procedure or outcome of Clark Kimble's need. Please let Clark rest tonight, let him build up strength to once again fight and undergo another tremendous transplant. Let him live long and be an example and a servant for thee. In The Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Tuesday = D Day

2010-05-20T10:05:00.008-06:00

Clark is still being hospitalized at The U. He has been there one week today, but was only out for 24 hours before that and was checked right back into the same room. The burst blood vessel in his eye was caused from having too much blood from transfusions. They are giving him two units of platelets each day to dilute it and that should help his eye heal. Because of his blurred vision he cannot see the TV, computer, read a book, or even to text on his phone. He said that all he does is ask for Diloted (pain med), and when that wears off he asks for Benadryl which knocks him out, then he asks for more pain meds so he can continue sleeping. Because the viruses that he has are so dangerous, his door is constantly closed. Nothing that comes into the room comes out. Even his meals are brought on disposable trays. He would have to completely gown up including mask and booties to leave the room so he doesn't. It's also easier to just stay in bed now that they've inserted a catheter to administer antibiotics directly into his bladder in hopes to target the virus. They put the antibiotic in, clamp the tube, and he has to hold it in for 1 hour 3 times a day. Clark said it doesn't hurt but feels like he has to pee all the time.

Clark can have visitors and has enjoyed those who have come. Thank you! His room is now covered with glow-in-the-dark constellations and he has such things as play-dough and coloring books to help pass the time. He also enjoys the outside meals that have been brought in. Hospital food gets old FAST. You make his stay a little more bearable, as well as lift our worries. We cannot be there everyday so it's comforting to know that others are visiting.

Thursday's court session has been heavy on my mind. It was hard to sit in the room and not be able to say anything. It was empowering to hear Dr Boyer defend Clark, yet sickening to listen to Dr H's arguments against him. While talking to the attorney outside after the hearing, he said that many people had told him to prepare himself to even be in the same room as Dr H. No one had one good thing to say about Dr H, but no one had one bad thing to say about Judge Q. I believe her decision will be fair. It was obvious to see that Dr H had spent countless hours of reading and learning Clark's complicated case, as well as many more hours researching to find studies and statistics in his own favor. I can't imagine investing that much of my life to prove that someone else doesn't deserve a chance to live theirs. Dr Hudson said that he is also fighting with Dr H for approval for a liver transplant. Another life denied. Loy got to talking to a couple in the ER waiting room and learned that he had a kidney transplant. There must be some hereditary condition because his mother and sister also needed kidney transplants but died because Medicaid denied them. DIED!

His doctors talked to Judge Q yesterday about the status of his case. She said she needs more time and will make a decision on Tuesday. We hoped it would be sooner but at least we know that much so we aren't on the edge of our seats every minute of everyday until then. The doctors want to keep Clark in the hospital until then so that if the decision is YES, they will immediately start preparing Clark for the BMT. Wyatt and my mom will also hit the road toward Utah as soon as we hear the good news. We are all hopeful. They can also keep working more aggressively to get him better and keep him that way.

We have done all we can do up to this point. Now we need to keep praying with all our faith that Heavenly Father's hand continues to be at work in Clark's life as well as ours, and that He will direct us in the paths we should go. After fasting for Clark last weekend, I was left with the overall impression that this is true and I need to put my ultimate trust in Heavenly Father.

The "Rest of the Story"

2010-05-18T19:40:00.023-06:00

"Hello Americans, I'm Paul Harvey. You know what the news is, in a minute, you're going to hear

... the rest of the story."

Clark walked into the court room in hopes of getting a BMT soon!

I wish Paul Harvey was alive today and could have covered the 2 1/2 hour Medicaid hearing but I'll do my best to recap it. It took place at the Utah Department of Health Building in Salt Lake City. A huge building and covered under security upon entry. Clark, Kristin, Loy and I attended. Clark's two doctors (Dr. Boyer and Dr. Parker) along with the University Hospital's attorney were also there. Medicaid was represented by two doctors in which I will refer to as Dr. H and Dr. M. The Judge was a lady, Judge Q. Also in attendance was the stenographer. After being sworn in, Judge Q asked who wanted to begin. Very arrogantly, Dr. H said he would take 2 hours himself, shocked by the answer, Drs Boyer and Parker said they had clinics to get back to at 3:00 PM. Judge Q gave Dr. Boyer the floor first. He explained Clark's condition and their previous treatment attempts. Transplants are so successful that they are usually the preferred and standard treatment but with Clark's history they wanted to try an alternative treatment, which they did for 5-6 months with no response. His bone marrow biopsies show no normal elements and display complete failure. His liver function, and all other organ functions including lung and heart meet and exceed Medicaid's criteria as well as their own criteria for a BMT. Clark has a high performance status of 90% which is quite good! "My assessment is that Clark is an excellent candidate for a matched sibling transplant which will restore normal marrow function." Dr. Parker added his comments. Judge Q asked them brief questions such as if Clark has any other health issues that would complicate his survival rate. To this Dr Boyer responded that he has no major organ dysfunction and a high performance status and that there is nothing to indicate that he would have any better or worse chance of survival than any other patient.

Now the floor was given to Dr. H. With a stack of papers a couple inches thick at his finger tips and each page heavily highlighted and marked with stickers, and additional folders filled with papers in the corner of the table at least 8 more inches high, he began with a monotone voice and a long boring story. His words were accompanied by a smirk on his face, his body language was cold, and his manner was less than any bum would acquire. He requested a recess numerous times to leave the room to either communicate with Dr. M or to make copies of missing documents he thought he had already taken care of. He appeared as a fool, stumbling to pronounce medical terms that he read from his files. His presentation was filled with negative statistics of past cases as near to Clark's as possible. He included skewed statistics such as lumping Clark into a study of people 16 and older. The judge caught this and asked how much older. Now Dr. H had to clarify that it was 16-67. I don't think Clark at 24 needs to be compared to a 67 year old. He rambled and rambled and rambled, finding the rest of us in the room (including Judge Q) quite bored. At one point Judge Q asked him to summarize rather than read all his information. I feel it was his tactic to make it long enough that Clark's doctors would have to leave. Well, Dr. Boyer was getting fidgety due to time, and finally spoke out to get the Judge's attention that he wanted to say something before he had to leave. Dr. H rudely and loudly said, "I believe this is my time to speak", in which the Judge over ruled and gave Dr. Boyer the floor. Dr. Boyer's paper was filled with notes he had taken to present a rebuttal to much incorrect information Dr. H had just stated. Dr. Boyer ended by saying Clark has 12 to 18 months to live without the BMT, and the sooner we do it the better. Dr. Parker gave his closing statements. Dr. Boyer and Dr. Parker then left, leaving only the University's Attorney to represent Clark. After a brief recess we were back in session. Clark was sitting in the back of the court room beside me. He was very uncomfortable and not feeling well. He was squirming etc, which caught Judge Q's attention. She interrupted Dr. H to ask me if I needed to take Clark out and make him comfortable! She then looked at Dr. H and asked him if there was a bed or couch Clark could lay on until court had finished. Just as expected, he abruptly responded, "NO". So I took Clark to my car where he rested for about another hour till we got done. After Dr. H had finally finished reading which appeared as a medical journal, Judge Q gave Dr. M a chance to comment. He began by saying "First of all I would like to praise Dr H for the beautiful job he did of presenting this case." I believe there were several silent snickers in the room at that comment... (hahaha) He finished by saying "It would be great to see a miracle for this nice young boy. I don't think this is it." Talk about two cold hearted Drs. I wouldn't want either of them at my bedside. Judge Q asked them, "with the two prior denials, how many Drs are on the board that made those decisions?" Dr. H and M looked at each other, shrugged their shoulders, and then Dr. H answered 4, Dr. M answer 8, humm, wouldn't there be a single answer? I feel Judge Q was asking very fair questions to each party and that her questions were on Clark's behalf. Then she gave the attorney a chance to make a closing statement, he responded. "I'm not a medical doctor so I can't defend or disagree with much of which Dr. H has read, and I agree with Dr. M that we do need a miracle. It's nice when we are given the chance to do something to help a miracle happen." I got shivers and began to cry. What a powerful way to end!

During a recess, Judge Q asked the stenographer how long it will take her to get the transcripts ready? She said this will be complicated due to all the medical terms Dr. H read so it will take her a little longer than normal. Judge Q sternly asked her to make it a priority and do it ASAP. Once Judge Q gets the transcripts, she will make a decision. She then has a board she will present her decision to and if they agree and say yes, then that is final. If Judge Q says yes, but the board says no, then she can appeal with them to come to an agreement. They have a "reasonable" amount of time to make this decision so who knows how long that is? Meanwhile we anxiously wait and pray.

Clark is still in the hospital. They feel they finally have his fever under control. They would get it down and it would immediately return. He was at one point on four antibiotics. He has fluid on his lungs so is currently on oxygen too. A blood vessel broke behind his right eye so his vision is blurred and in red tones, perhaps that was due to his high fever. He is sore and aches all over. He does have a virus in his blood they are treating. Poor boy doesn't have ANY white blood cells so he can't fight off anything he comes in contact with. He is in a pressurized room with the door constantly shut. Visitors, nurses, doctors, and anyone entering his room need to be gowned up. Warnings are on his door of no immune system so everyone needs to take a lot of precautions to protect Clark right now. Drs. assured the Judge that with his BMT his body would be able to fight these things off again. They also said that due to the fact that we have an identical sibling donor, that the risks for Clark would be much less. Please let that MIRACLE begin soon! ...good day!

Hurry Up and Wait

2010-05-13T20:07:00.007-06:00

Due to the fact that we have been in the ER with Clark for five plus hours and know many are anxiously waiting for news, we are giving a brief update. . . . the hearing today went well. It was difficult to hear, and stirred up much emotion but we ultimately feel it went in Clark's favor. No decision was made today. The judge understands the urgency of the case and requested that everything be done ASAP and be made a priority. We hope for a decision by early next week. More details on the hearing later. Believe me, much more!

Clark didn't feel well all day today and even stepped out of the hearing early. The hearing took a total of 2 1/2 hours so we made Clark as comfortable as possible in the car until it ended. We then went straight from the hearing to the ER at the U. He had a 107 fever (anything over 100.4 is considered emergency for him), abdominal pain, shortness of breath, hives, and nausea. He was given Tylenol which broke the fever, saline, pain meds, and two doses of antibodies. He will be admitted again, just over 24 hours from being discharged.

Continue to pray for him and especially for those who have the authority to make the decision on his life. Thank you for your concern and know that we are also praying for each of you.

Work a Miracle for Clark!

2010-05-13T07:24:00.011-06:00

Clark's Medicaid hearing will be today, May 13, 2010 at 1 PM MST. We will post the out come as soon as possible. I received a call from the Bone Marrow Coordinator yesterday on my way to Utah. She said that if the hearing goes in our favor, that they need to begin procedures ASAP. She was wondering if I had brought Wyatt to Utah with me? I said I hadn't but we could get him out right away. She said Clark is 100% ready and the next step is getting Wyatt's pre-testing done. He will need several tests done to be sure his health is protected as well. We are SO blessed that Clark has a sibling donor. There are so many less risks because of the donor being a sibling. We are praying the decision of the Judge is in our favor today.

My sister Loy, my father Joe Larson, and dad's caregiver Wishbone, made the trip to Utah with me. Keep in mind my dad is 100 years old. The trip went well with the exception of the weather. We drove in horrible winter conditions from Hot Springs SD to Rock Springs Wyoming. Many hours of low visibility, slush and/or ice. Traveling at speeds of 40 to 50 mph that entire distance slowed our traveling time down but we all managed to keep our spirits high. My father played his harmonica much of the way and we sang with him, the songs we knew. Our first stop was to the hospital where Clark was just being discharged so we were able to take him home. He was under a lot of medications that had him somewhat mellow, but he was certainly happy and surprised to see his grandpa. Since Clark has been unable to come to SD on many occasions and especially had missed grandpa's 100th birthday party back in August, we felt honored that he could make this long trip to see Clark instead. My sister Cheryl gives the following prayer which will give us strength to endure today. Thank you Cheryl

Work a Miracle for Clark!

This is my prayer for you today, Clark. I pray that you will be blessed to be invigorated in spirit and hope and strengthened and healed in every fiber of your being.

Dear Heavenly Father:

As the time for Clark's Hearing fast approaches, I thank Thee for the miracle regarding its rescheduling and for sustaining Clark in the meantime.

I plead with Thee to hear the prayers and behold the fasting of so many who earnestly seek Thy continued miracles and deliverance's in Clark's life. Be at Clark's Hearing tomorrow, Dear Father. Unleash Thy great powers in Clark's behalf and please work a miracle in the mind and heart of the judge who will be hearing Clark's case. Bless him or her to be overwhelmed with a sense of urgency and the spirit of charitable compassion. Give him or her peace that the bone marrow transplant is the just and right and reasonable choice and help him or her to rule accordingly in favor of Clark's receiving the bone marrow transplant.

Work a miracle within the minds and hearts of Clark's medical team. Make them warriors, fully dressed and capable for battle, armed with faith and truth and power from heaven. Let their advocacy be influential and persuasive and blessed by Thy Holy Spirit. Give them tongues of fire and righteous might and inspiration. Go before them and be at their side. Surround them with Thine inspiration and compassion and truth. Bless them for saving Clark's life thus far, and please grant unto them opportunity to continue to minister needed procedures, surgeries, and treatments that will or may be necessary for preserving Clark's life and restoring him to full health and vigor.

Let the spirit of gratitude be expressed to Medicaid for the many thousands of dollars they have spent thus far and will continue to spend for Clark's treatments in the future. Please let Medicaid feel appreciated and thanked for all that they have provided thus far to Clark. However, Father, since they hold the key to whether or not Clark will receive the urgently needed bone marrow transplant, and since Clark needs this surgery in order to live, tomorrow could become somewhat of a war zone. Therefore, Dear Lord, despite Medicaid's past benevolence, we petition Thee, Dear Lord, to thwart their denials of paying for Clark's much needed bone marrow transplant. Work a miracle in the minds and hearts of those representing Medicaid, that they will not have a tongue to utter discouragement or to withstand the statistics, faith, expertise, testimonies and pleas of the doctors and those who represent them. Confound the minds and intents of Clark's enemies, O Lord. Confuse their arguments and make them appear as fools. Remove their flooring from under their feet and cause them to stumble and fall, like drunken men.

Work a miracle now upon Clark's spirit to restore him to full hope and faith. Bless his weary body that it will be able to find and hold strength beyond normal means and be able to undergo a bone marrow transplant with success and lasting healing.

Please bless Kristin as Clark's faithful and faith-filled care giver, and please provide needed blessings to her and her family. Please bless the doctors and team of medical experts who have operated on and attended Clark in these past 11 months. Please bless Rhonda and Clark's entire family for their faith and prayers and support and love. Please bless all others who have felt concern and/or expressed it via any and all means: prayers, fasting, temple worship, blog maintenance and support, financial donations, blood drives, letter-writing, and all other feelings and acts of love. Please especially bless Wyatt Kimble as the willing bone marrow donor and the unknown soul who unselfishly donated his or her liver for Clark's liver transplant. Please always bless that person and his/her family for this sacrifice.

Bless Clark mightily, I pray, Dear Lord, with the strength of spirit and mind and body to go forward with faith each day of his life. Bless him to have The Holy Spirit as his companion. Speak peace and comfort and hope to him, and grant him life. Watch over and be with him, as Thou hast in the past. Help Clark to reach out to Thee with real intent, granting back unto Thee whatever life Thou dost grant unto him.

Work a miracle in all these ways, I pray, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sent with love on the wings of faith and prayer, Cheryl 5/12/10

Another Hospital Stay

2010-05-13T05:32:00.001-06:00

At this point, Clark hates going to the hospital. He will often hold back telling the Dr's certain symptoms if he thinks they will tell him he needs to come in. Clark has been in severe pain for the past week. He developed a blood clot in his arm at the site of his picc so they removed it and put it in his other arm. It felt better for a day but then pain started in that arm also. I asked him if it felt like the first arm did to know if it was a blood clot or maybe something else. He said, "It feels like a knife is stabbed all the way through my arm, and just staying in there. It was only stabbing half way through in the other arm."

After days of minimal movement and symptoms not improving, I suggested, then insisted that we go to the ER. Clark declined. Bishop Sampson came over to help me convince him . . . or carry him out of needed. I couldn't do that by myself. Clark felt fevered to the touch and said he would go in if he saw the numbers on the thermometer. He has been told that anytime he has a fever over 100.4 it is considered emergency. Clark's temp was 103.1. He threw a bag together, the bishop gave him a blessing, and we left. One part that stood out to me in the blessing is that he said that Clark has more trials to go through here, but he will be blessed with strength and desire to go through them. At first I was disappointed to hear that he will have more trials but I think the key word is "HERE". Also, the strength and desire are much needed right now.
We went to American Fork Emergency hoping they could solve it there without having to go up north. We weren't so lucky. They gave him saline, a dose of antibodies, some pain meds, and sent us to the U. Clark was admitted at 4:00AM and soon after I headed home.

He was in the hospital until Wednesday. He said they didn't do much with him the whole time he was there. He continued to receive antibodies, infusions, and pain meds. They removed his picc and have to just wait for the blood clots to go away. I asked how he can get blood clots when his platelets are so low. There are other components of the blood, like proteins, that can also cause clots. They cannot give him blood thinners for obvious reasons.Mom, Loy, and two unexpected visitors - Grandpa and Wishbone, made the long trip out battling a winter storm and driving through the night. They picked Clark up on their way through. While at the hospital they saw many of people from our long stay over the summer including Marie, Susan, Dr. Schwartz, and Dr. Hudson.

Super Clark on KSL

2010-05-07T00:12:00.009-06:00

Man denied transplant because of insurance cap policy

May 6th, 2010 @ 6:14pm By John Daley

SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Friends and family are getting organized to help a man from Saratoga Springs who is afflicted with a rare disease.

His situation is complicated by the fact he's maxed out on his lifetime insurance coverage, and he isn't sure Medicaid will cover much-needed bone marrow treatment.

Many employers place a cap on lifetime insurance coverage. But what happens if you get sick and your costs exceed that number?

Clark Kimble had a good job, with insurance, with a cell tower construction company. Then last summer he came down with a rare virus and needed a life-saving liver transplant and multiple surgeries.

The cost exceeded his lifetime insurance limit.

"Humana, you know, they've been great, but there's a $2 million lifetime max with my transplants," Kimble said. "I've had 18 surgeries, all the transfusions."

Humana couldn't officially discuss Kimble's case, but said, "Depending on the product an employer purchases from Humana, an insurance policy may have a maximum lifetime benefit."

Now on Medicaid, Kimble needs a bone marrow transplant. He says he's been denied twice by Medicaid because it's considered a risky procedure.

"There's no price on life, is what I keep saying. That's what everyone says. But it's like, how can they say you're 24, you have a life ahead of you still. It's very frustrating," Kimble said.

The state agency that determines eligibility says Kimble missed a deadline to apply for social security disability, which is needed to pay for further treatment.

"He has until the end of the month that he can go visit social security, apply for the disability benefit and provide verification," said Dave Lewis, communications director of the Utah Department of Workforce Services. "We can reopen the case, no loss in coverage."

In the meantime, family and friends are rallying around the guy they call Super Clark, putting up a blog, raising money and urging Medicaid to cover the bone marrow procedure.

Kimble's sister Kristin Purles said, "We get e-mails and comments on the blog and texts and phone calls regularly saying how much he has changed people's lives, and they don't even know him personally."

Federal health reform will get rid of that lifetime limit. Kimble and his family are appealing Medicaid's decision. They say his whole medical team will be making the case on his behalf for the bone marrow transplant at a hearing next week.

Super Clark in the News - KSL 6:00 PM MST

2010-05-06T14:15:00.005-06:00

KSL is doing story on Clark and his situation tonight on KSL Channel 5. KSL will run the story on the 6:00 evening news. Don't miss it. If you don't have access to the channel, we'll post some video for all to see. Thanks for the support.

Pain, Pain Go Away . . .

2010-05-05T11:57:00.005-06:00

. . . Come again NEVER!

This has been a tough week for Clark. He said he has been in the most pain he's had since he got out of the hospital. His incision has been hurting a lot, he's recovering from the bone marrow biopsy, and he has severe pain in his arm at the site of his line. Any one of these would be tough to deal with but all three together is unmanageable. But like a super hero, Clark is managing . . . without pain meds. For the first time, I saw Clark break down. He cried and told me that he's sick of this lifestyle and hates that he can't do anything or go anywhere without getting diseases. I told him that anyone would be fed up with it by now, especially when there's no end in sight. It has to be a lot to deal with.

We spent the day between the Huntsman and the U today. His doctors are doing all the preliminary testing they can to prepare for the BMT. Last week he had an echo, EKG, Pulmonary function test, and a bone marrow biopsy. They want to keep all their information up to date as they are building a case for the Medicaid trial so he often meets with his doctors for updates. Today they took an ultrasound of his picc line and found a blood clot which is causing all the pain and numbness. They removed the line and put it in the other arm. Hopefully he will find some relief.

Clark receiving his IVs in the car on our drive up to the Huntsman. Once again, our very high tech medical equipment and techniques are at work.

Keeping the kids entertained for hours on end can be a challenge. We were thankful to find books and toys in one waiting room.

The site of Clark's previous picc line. It is discolored, swollen, and hard to the touch. As well as so painful that Clark cannot use or even move his arm, and it often causes him to be nauseated.

All better! And so pretty!

B-E A-G-G-R-E-S-S-I-V-E!

2010-05-02T14:23:00.002-06:00

"Be aggressive

Got to be aggressive

B-E A-G-G-R-E-S-S-I-V-E"

This cheer that I used to do back in the day (yes I was a cheerleader once upon a time) has come to my mind every time I hung up the phone today, talking with one more person about what we can do, and that has been a lot of times. Many people are on the move, on the phone, and on the net trying to get this tree shakin'. We cannot sit idly by and do nothing. Clark got a letter in the mail that said his hearing for the Medicaid appeal is scheduled for May 13. This is already an answer to prayer as we were originally told it would be a whole month away. In the meantime, letters have been written to send to congressmen, TV and radio stations, and many others. Good Morning America has a Living the Dream contest to which many entries were submitted on Clark's behalf. KSFY and KeloLand in South Dakota, Bill Gephardt and KSL of Utah, and many congressmen already have or plan to be notified. Hopefully this gets some attention, and some action.

A powerful, beautiful letter was written by a member of Clark's singles ward. Please click here to read it, and if you choose to, you can also print it and send it to whomever you think could help.

To Senator Orrin G. Hatch:

SENATOR,

I HAVE A NEPHEW, CLARK KIMBLE, THAT LIVES IN UTAH THAT HAS UNDERGONE AN UNBELIEVABLE ORDEAL WITH A LIVER TRANSPLANT, THIRTEEN SURGERIES, AND NOW THE NEED FOR A BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT AT AGE 25 AND IS BEING DENIED BY MEDICAID. MEDICAID IS PAYING $44,000 PER MONTH FOR BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS AND YET DENIES THE BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT THAT COULD ELIMINATE THE NEED FOR THE BLOOD. COULD YOUR OFFICE PLEASE MAKE AN INQUIRY IN CLARK'S BEHALF? PLEASE CHECK OUT THE BLOG AT http://superclarkkimble.blogspot.com THAT TELLS THE STORY OF THE ENTIRE HISTORY OF CLARK'S ORDEAL..

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

ROGER GROFF

Miracles Are In Progress

2010-04-29T19:52:00.005-06:00

When life is great we often over look the things in this world that are true miracles. Only the hand of the Lord could make them possible. Like the lyrics to the song that is playing tells us of a few of those miracles. When we are in earnest need of a miracle such as we are experiencing in Clark's case. It will be a miracle if Doctors will be able to convince Medicaid into approval of Clark's BMT which is in urgent need. That miracle is in progress! Clark received a letter from Medicaid that they will have a hearing with his Doctors on May 13, 2010 at 1:00 PM MST. I feel its a miracle that the third hearing with Medicaid, which originally was expected to be set for a month or more, has now been cut in half. Prayers are being answered. When we have done all we can, the Lord will allow us to stand still, while He puts his arm forth.

Doctrine and Covenants 123:17 reads, ". . . let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed."

Ordinary Miracle by Sarah McLachlan

It's not that usual when everything is beautiful
It's just another ordinary miracle today
The sky knows when it's time to snow
You don't need to teach a seed to grow
It's just another ordinary miracle today
Life is like a gift they say
Wrapped up for you everyday
Open up and find a way
To give some of your own
Isn't it remarkable?
Like every time a raindrop falls
It's just another ordinary miracle today
Birds in winter have their fling
And always make it home by spring
It's just another ordinary miracle today
When you wake up everyday
Please don't throw your dreams away
Hold them close to your heart
Cause we are all a part
Of the ordinary miracle
Ordinary miracle
Do you want to see a miracle?
Its seems so exceptional

Things just work out after all

It's just another ordinary miracle today
The sun comes up and shines so bright
It disappears again at night
It's just another ordinary miracle today
It's just another ordinary miracle today

Someone Needs You!

2010-04-28T10:38:00.001-06:00

So many people have asked what they can do to help. When Clark had his Liver Transplant we asked people to begin donating blood, and you did. It has had a tremendous impact in personal lives as well as to the Red Cross across the Nation. Please continue to do so. Now as we research and feel the desperation of Clark needing a Bone Marrow Transplant we again learn of a need for donors. This is a time when you can give life without loosing your own. We are so thankful in our case, that Clark has two brothers that both match. But what if they didn't? What if we were looking for someone like you? There are many Clark Kimble families who need you. Please consider becoming a bone marrow donor!

PS Check out the little boy's shirt at the beginning of the video.

Home again, Home again, Jiggity Jig!

2010-04-25T13:25:00.008-06:00

Clark was able to come home from the hospital yesterday. In good spirits, he told Bruce and Illa that all he has is E coli this time. "Oh, is that all?!" He does have Acenetobactor virus too, although serious, he has had that one before. Doctors aren't too worried about either because they caught them quickly but he needs to receive two different IV antibodies to fight them. The schedule is a little rough. He receives them at 6AM, noon, 6PM, and midnight for 2 weeks. It takes about 15 minutes to hook everything up, an hour for them to run, and another 10 minutes to disconnect. Makes for a long night. He has a slight loss of appetite and makes several trips to the bathroom from all the extra fluids but is feeling well overall. While in the hospital he enjoyed watching the Jazz game with Logan, Aaron, and Grayden.

Speaking of appetite . . . A favorite from childhood are peanut butter and cheese sandwiches which Clark has been eating at home lately. He also requested one from the Huntsman for lunch one day. They asked, "What kind of cheese would you like?" and brought it right up. I took a shake down to Clark this morning with lots of good stuff in it - banana, strawberries, orange juice, carrot juice, lots of spinach, omega oils, honey, and vanilla. When he asked me what kind of shake it was, I thought it was because he didn't like it. Instead he said it was really good.

One of the viruses that Clark has is very serious. I was worried about the babies but the doctors said that people with healthy immune systems should be ok. He warned to use extra good hygiene, be careful and clean in the bathroom, and to avoid sick people because both are at risk. They said that regular hand soap is best and antibacterial soap is not recommended because it also kills the good bacteria. He also said to wash cans and jugs that we bring home from the grocery store. Clark said it would be easier to go raw! He can't do any gardening, needs to avoid crowds, and cannot use public pools or hot tubs ever!

Nurse Kristin is back and as good as ever. The doctors wanted to make sure I came to the hospital so they could show me how to run the IVs. Clark and I both told them that we had done it before so they didn't go through any instructions. Clark's meds were delivered to the house and when he opened the box to find an IV pole, we knew we were in trouble. The IVs before were little pressurized bulbs and all you had to do was hook them up and they ran themselves. These ones are real IVs with tubes, and clamps, and regulators, and I don't even know what the other parts are for or even called. Clark and I read the instructions very carefully and several times. We figured something out that works and Clark is still alive but I'm anxious for Susan to come on Monday. So far I've pulled the tube from the IV bag and antibodies went spilling down my arms and back, we release the trapped air from the tube by running some into an empty pop can, and drained the antibodies completely when some blood backed into the tubing. Scary! He's probably more at risk with his life in my hands than with the viruses.

That's a lot of IV's in his fridge.

40 Day Fast

2010-04-24T14:14:00.004-06:00

As many of you know, Medicaid denied Clark a bone marrow transplant twice. Their only reasoning is that it's too risky. It is true that it is very risky in Clark's particular situation but without the BMT his condition is fatal. The doctors plan to have a hearing to appeal their decision but this will not be for another month.

Clark desperately needs a Bone Marrow Transplant. As I write this he is in the Huntsman Center again. He has and will contract anything and everything he comes across and it is wreaking havoc on his system. He continues to be infused with 2-4 units of blood products weekly. In the meantime, he is sick! He sleeps all day, gets petechiae rashes, severe headaches, bacteria and viruses, has low or no appetite, and aches and pains which have all become a way of life for him. But with the BMT it wouldn't have to be.

The scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 123:17 comes to mind, ". . . let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed." There isn't much that we can do at this time. But we can pray, and we can fast. I'm not asking you to fast for 40 days. Rather, during this time, at least one person will be fasting each day, creating a continuous 40 days of fasting for Clark. We ask that you pray that Clark will receive the treatment he needs and have a full recovery.

The first day of the fast will be this Sunday, April 25th. The fast will continue for 40 days, ending on Thursday, June 3rd.

Ether 12:12 For if there be no faith among the children of men, God can do no miracle among them; wherefore, he showed not himself until after their faith.

DENIED!?! Again HOSPITALIZED!! Again

2010-04-22T15:37:00.005-06:00

Dr. Parker had a conference call with Medicaid yesterday. I'm not sure on the details of the conversation but I know that they denied the BMT again! The doctors are going to push this into a hearing but that will not take place for another month. As urgent as this is, Medicaid is backed up and cannot get to this any sooner. In the meantime, Dr. Boyer and Dr. Parker are in close contact with each other and are exploring other avenues to get going with the transplant. They are moving forward with as much treatment and preliminary testing, such as organ functions, performance status and labs, that they can do in preparation for the BMT so that when they get the word go, they can GO! From there, things will move forward very quickly. First and foremost, Clark needs to get over these viruses and bacteria he keeps getting. They cannot start anything until he is rid of them.

Clark was admitted to the Huntsman again yesterday because his blood test came back positive for a bacteria. He has one in his lungs which is an older one, and another in his blood which is new. Clark doesn't have a fever and feels well. At first they were unsure of what exact organism it was but knew that it was class Gram-negative which is concerning. They suspected it could have been from the plasma infusion. This is the most frequent complication with plasma transfusions as plasma cannot be stored at a cold temperature. It must be stored at room temperature but is supposed to be used within a certain time frame to avoid bacterias from developing. Well, more testing was done and results came back which identified the organism as E coli. It is not from plasma and he could have come in contact with this anywhere. They said it is easily treated with a 14 day antibiotic.

Last but not least, there were also signs of the Acinetobacter virus again. They will look into this more to determine if he does have it or not and decide treatment or discharge from there. Acinetobacter is a tough virus so we're hoping he doesn't have it!

Red Cross Luncheon

2010-04-21T22:13:00.005-06:00

Each year the Red Cross holds a luncheon to show appreciation for businesses, organizations, or groups who host blood drives. This year they asked Clark to be their poster child and to speak at the luncheon. He humbly declined but nominated me to speak for him.

When we arrived, there were many who were anxious to meet Clark and shake his hand. Anita, of the Red Cross, warned me that her entire office has become very attached to Clark and feels as though they know him personally through the blog.

There were about 70 people there. A couple Eagle scouts were recognized for blood drives they had organized as their project. Another man was recognized for having recently donated his 14th gallon of blood! That's a goal I hope I can reach!

Both Anita and David Sickich spoke prior to me and they were emotional so it was a tough place for me to start. I tried to keep it short and sweet as I knew people needed to get back to work and such. I told a bit about Clark's history, his liver transplant, and now need for a BMT. I said that he has been dubbed a superhero but it is people like them who give the superheros out there their power. There were a few crying eyes and I know many were touched by Clark's story.

Afterward, a man came up to me and handed me a business card. He was emotional and his words were few and choked. He said that he wants me to send him Clark's story and he will try to get him nominated for Thursday's Hero. I'm not familiar with this but all you Sportsbeat Sunday watchers will know that this is a BYU program where they recognize real heroes and they get to meet the team and it is sometimes on TV.

Overall this was a great experience and a good opportunity. I know that Clark would trade all of this for good health in a heartbeat so the most we can do is share his story and hopefully some good will come of it.

Clark, Anita and Brittany from the Red Cross, and Kristin

Medical Record Novel

2010-04-17T14:15:00.004-06:00

Many have asked how many units of blood Clark has received in all. It's such a large number that we cannot even estimate what how much it is. The hospital doesn't have one place where they have this number either but said it would be in his medical records, which Clark called to request. A packet arrived in the mail, about three inches thick, and a bill for $104. My mom had it copied and bound for $25 and was up until 2AM reading through it. She said that much of it was in medical terms and over her head but still very interesting to read. She learned some things that she didn't know before. Things the doctors didn't come right out and tell us. Or maybe they did tell us but in a more gentle way than the candid truth recorded in the records. The transplant alone takes up 10 pages. One of the things we learned that while we celebrated and danced at news of a successful transplant finished, the doctors recorded in his chart that he was returned to SICU in critical condition.

DENIED!?!

2010-04-17T12:50:00.010-06:00

Clark was at a routine appointment at the Huntsman when one of the nurses came in and told Clark that Medicaid had denied the Bone Marrow Transplant. Both Clark and the doctor were surprised by this. The letter that came in the mail said that statistics show a 75% survival rate for the first year and a 55% survival rate for the first 3 years. I guess they didn't like those statistics. We don't either!

The question we have is who are they to judge the risk involved. They aren't doctors. And they certainly don't know Clark. Dr. Sussman said to Clark, "Do you know how I know that you're a survivor? . . . Because you survived the Acinetobacter virus." And he survived this at his lowest I might add. This same virus is going around among the troops in Afghanistan right now and there are many dieing from it.

If it's a matter of cost, it can't be much cheaper to pay for the $11,000 worth of infusions he receives weekly. Clark receives the most infusions of anyone at American Fork hospital. It's also not cheap to cover the cost of the expensive pills he has take now to eliminate the built up levels of iron in his system. When you receive blood, your body uses all it's components but the iron has no place to go. A normal healthy person uses their blood over 120 days. A normal infusion will last 60 days. And then there's Clark. He is going through blood within a week. Also not cheap to pay for the regular hospital stays, antibodies, and treatment he has each time he contracts a new virus or bacteria.

So what do we do now? Three of Clark's doctors plan to make an appeal and get them to accept the procedure. They have never had to do this before but are confident that Medicaid will change their minds. Clark told the Bishop about this, he talked to the Stake President, and if they have to they will take it all the way up to President Monson. There is a possibility that the church can negotiate with the Huntsman Center for a reduced price and then cover the cost. We have also talked about writing letters to congressmen, news stations, and even Oprah.

My mom, Wyatt, Loy, and Blake drove out to Utah in hopes of attending the hearing. Unfortunately it was postponed until next week but it was good to see them anyway. We had a fun and busy time with them and hope they will be making the trip again very soon for the BMT. My mom plans to bring Wyatt out, then stay during the few weeks he's needed out here in preparation for the transplant.

Receiving the BMT is Clark's only hope right now. Yes, it is risky but without it there is a 0% survival rate. The doctors have now said that he URGENTLY needs the BMT.

Mom's sister Loy and her husband own their own semi. Being the serving sister Loy is, she told mom she'd get them to Utah in their semi so mom would have no cost and they could make money in doing so. Loy was able to get freight to haul to Green River, Wyoming on their way out. Then Loy found freight to haul back to Minnesota which they picked that up right in Orem, Utah, just 15 miles from my home.

This is Blake, Loy's son. He was the main driver and the only one with a CDL but Loy took the while he slept. While Blake drove, Wyatt took shotgun, while Loy drove, mom took shotgun. Mom said it was one of the most wonderful and fun trips she has been on. It was comfortable and easy to get sleep in the nice rig they drive.

Mom and Wyatt on their trip to Utah in VanDyke's Semi. We hoped the Bone Marrow Transplant would be accpeted and that Wyatt would be admitted into the hopsital to begin the BMT. Instead they cut their trip short and headed back to South Dakota to work so they didn't use their "time off" up before its needed later.

Serving Time

2010-03-30T17:14:00.006-06:00

Clark had been feeling well for quite awhile when he came down with a fever yesterday. I could tell just by looking at him when he came up for breakfast that he didn't feel well. He said he had a really bad headache, his joints ached, he had a slight fever, and felt nauseous at times. He didn't want to tell anyone because he dreaded being admitted again. He had hopes of going home to South Dakota for Easter and the timing of this would not fit in his schedule. When his labs came in he was told to go immediately to the hospital for an infusion. I dropped him off and didn't even make it all the way home when he called to say they were admitting him to the Huntsman and transporting him by ambulance. Clark said that he talked to the EMT's about the game Call of Duty on the ride up. Once there, he walked himself in along side the EMT's and was mistaken for one of them when a nurse asked who they were there to pick up.

Turns out that his CMV had flared up again so they gave him lots of antibodies and several infusions. By the next morning he was feeling fine again and spent the next couple days watching TV and wishing to leave. They had to run several other tests to make sure they were negative and did an ultrasound and X-Ray of his liver. All looked great.

He served his time and four days later he was discharged. Kellen and I went to St. George for Easter and were worried about leaving Clark alone. Many stepped in to help. Of course the Bishop didn't miss a beat. He and his wife brought over meals, called and texted to check in, and even had him over with their family for Easter Supper.

Blood Drive

2010-03-25T13:17:00.007-06:00

Nicole with her two kids came down from Wyoming to donate.

The Blood Drive was a huge success. They said that people were lined up all morning long. I over heard one guy say, "This is the real deal. It's like in the movies when there's a disaster and they need blood from everyone." That's how many people were there. The Red Cross started turning people away because they were getting too back up and they ran out of supplies. Dave, along with many others, organized the drive and helped create the award named in Clark's honor that will be given to the ward with the most members to donate.

People Clark has never seen before greeted him like he was a celebrity, jumping up from their seats to shake his hand as soon as they heard his name. Clark was flattered yet overwhelmed as his humility got the best of him.

The award reads: "Clark Kimble was diagnosed with acute liver failure on July 30, 2009. Due to numerous surgeries and ongoing treatment, Clark has received over 300 units of blood or plasma. There are many "Clark Kimbles" in our world today that need this Gift of Life.

Jesus Christ has granted us this life sustaining substance and has spilled his own for the redemption of mankind. Can't we too give a little back to help those who need it the most?

Donate blood to the American Red Cross . . . Give the Gift of Life

This award is given by the Lehi Jordan Stake and the American Red Cross on behalf of Clark Kimble for the most units of blood donated by a single ward."
Click on image to enlarge.

Updates

2010-03-23T11:50:00.006-06:00

So it's been awhile. Overall, Clark is doing great. A few exciting updates -

One of the biggest blessings in this whole experience aside from survival of course is that he has been accepted by Medicaid. Clark surpassed his $2 million lifetime maximum long, long ago. The bone marrow transplant is estimated at $500,000 and the total keeps climbing. Thankfully Medicaid is retroactive back to August 2009, and is long-term through November 2011.

Most of the preliminary testing has been done so we thought that once he was approved for Medicaid, that the BMT would soon follow. It's been over three weeks! The Huntsman says they are waiting for approval from Medicaid and hope to hear from them soon. In the meantime, he receives regular infusions of blood and platelets. Susan, Clark's home health nurse comes out every Monday and Thursday to draw labs but Clark can always tell when he needs an infusion without even knowing the numbers. His platelets have fallen down to as low as 3. He gets Petechiae all over, even on his tongue, and recently, a hematoma on his side that was quite painful. He feels so much better when he's tanked up.

Larson Towers has offered that he could come in to "work" if he feels up to it. They are behind on paper work, all of which Clark knows how to do from being crew chief. It's great for Clark because he can get out of the house, be social, productive, and stimulated.

As for how he passes his time - sleeping, playing Xbox, entertaining Willow, attending church and activities, work, sorting through bills and mail, on the phone sorting through bills, at the hospital receiving infusions, and sleeping.

We all have spring fever and are enjoying the few days of warm weather we've had. Especially Clark since he always seems to be cold. He did mention the other day that with the warm weather coming on, and spending more time outside, that means he needs to invest in some sunscreen!

The concert and the blood drive both went well and were a lot of fun. Thank you to all of you who supported us at these events. I'm waiting for pictures, then will post all about it!

Blood Drive

2010-03-10T23:56:00.005-07:00

Lehi Jordan River Stake is hosting a blood drive this Saturday, March 13th, from 9-2 at the Stake Center (2300 W 300 S). This will be one of four blood drives to be held throughout this year, each being a contest between the wards for the most member's to donate. A plaque has been created in Clark's honor and will be given to each winning ward, and one to the single's ward for the last blood drive where Anita from Red Cross said the most blood was donated from anywhere she's ever worked. We have seen and continue to see the life saving blood Clark has needed throughout this whole time. Everyone is welcome to donate even if you are not a member of this stake.

Let's break that record!

See you there!

We're on The Zoo

2010-03-05T09:23:00.004-07:00

The LiveR Die Charity Concert was noticed by one of Utah's top radio stations, 97.1, under their "Help if you can" section, and was announced on their very popular morning show, "The Morning Zoo."

Cottonmouth Clothing at Concert

2010-03-05T09:12:00.004-07:00

Premium Skate Shirts from Utah's own
Cottonmouth Clothing Company

Originally $20
Will be sold at Muse Music at a
discounted price of $5
with all proceeds to benefit Clark.

Check out their designs at www.cottonmouthco.com.

LiveR Die Concert Giveaways!

2010-03-01T16:10:00.004-07:00

A local charity, Power in 1,
will be giving away 50 free t-shirts to the first 50 people
at the LiveR Die Concert this Saturday!

Also, they are giving away autographed volleyballs and raffling off a basketball signed by the
BYU basketball team.

If you didn't have enough reasons to go before,
now you sure do!

LiveR Die Charity Concert

2010-02-23T23:06:00.008-07:00

Thanks to the generous and thoughtful efforts of our cousin and his friends, a concert has been organized to benefit Clark. Thanks Dustin! Should be a lot of fun! Invite your friends, and tell them to invite their friends. Hope to see you all there.

Saturday, March 6, 2010

8:00pm - 11:00pm

Muse Music

151 North University Ave
Provo, UT VIEW MAP

PERFORMING:
-Nate Baldwin and the Sound
-Double or Nothing
-Ask for the Future
-J.Wride

Admission: $5
Donations welcome.
All proceeds to benefit Clark.

Enjoy a night out with family-friendly
music while supporting Clark.

Info also on Facebook Events - "Liver Die Charity Concert"

Chin Up

2010-02-22T11:41:00.005-07:00

Wise words from my mom's favorite spider -

"Chin up!"

Clark still hasn't heard back from Medicaid for approval and much of his treatment plan is waiting on that. So he also doesn't know a time frame for when the BMT will take place.

In the meantime, he's trying to stay as healthy as possible and receives regular transfusions. Many have asked how he's holding up emotionally. I have to say, he NEVER complains! I complain more than he does. It's just the little things and the big things. Frustration and discouragement, long drives, hours in doctor's offices and hospitals, no answers to why or how or what to do now, money or lack there of, and bills which there is no lack of, not much of a social life, and so on and so on. Still, he never complains! I don't know how but he doesn't.

The Day to Day

2010-02-19T11:18:00.003-07:00

Clark was discharged from the hospital a week ago Friday. While there, they removed his Pic line. He doesn't even know how long it was in. He just woke up one morning and it was there. It's been since right after the transplant though. They wanted to remove anything that would allow infection to get in easily. Now he has to be poked every time he gives or receives blood, or anything else. He bruises easily and they take a long time to heal so all these extra sticks make for many bruises. Eventually he will have a port put into his chest for the chemo and BMT. Home health visits have been cut back to twice a week, Monday and Thursday. He doesn't have any energy and sleeps most of the days. He also doesn't have any appetite at all. He weighed 125 a couple days ago but is now back to 132. He wakes most mornings with a pretty good head ache that lightens as the day goes on. He spends lots of time on the computer and Xbox. He said he has Skype on most of the time so if you want to give him a call you can either search for his name, or his Skype username is "tuffscarz".Willow also keeps him busy. She loves Hemi and I never know if Hemi is playing along with her or trying to run away. Willow likes to tell Clark stories. She picks up a piece of his mail (and there's a ton of it, mostly bills!) and starts out something like this, "Once upon a time, . . . hopisal . . . some more things he can't understand . . . You like that story Clark?" Then she'll grab the next piece of mail and start in on another story. Today she told him that he can come to storytime with her.

. . . And On and On . . .

2010-02-11T11:09:00.003-07:00

Still no definate cause of Clark's symptoms. He was a little dehydrated so he recieved fluids to help with that. They said his liver and everything else are functioning just fine. There is some calcium build up on his liver which is probably causeing the pain. They are not concerned about it as it is common and just part of the transplant process.

Clark felt great all day yesterday and was expected to come home today until he woke up with a fever again this morning. He had a 103 fever but felt like he could not stay warm. They gave him Tylenol, the fever lifted, and he is felling fine again. Unfortunately, because he has these spurts of fever, they will keep him for observation until tomorrow.

They are also talking about taking out his pic line. Origionally they were going to "install" his central line in preparation for the BMT but now they don't want him to have any lines as they are easy access for infection. The pic was easy access for us too though. Now he will have to be stuck everytime they draw blood or administer medicine. This will be hard because that is something I CANNOT DO!

If you would like to visit, Clark is on the 2nd floor in the Intermediate Care ICU. No kids, no visitation from 7-8:30 AM or PM, and no later than 11 PM.

This is the sickness that never ends . . .

2010-02-10T09:17:00.006-07:00

Yes it goes on and on my friends . . .
Clark started feelin' it not knowin' what it was . . .
Now he'll continue BEATING it forever just because . . . !

Cue MUTE button!

After a short visit home, Clark is back in the hospital. In and Out! Just like that. I was up getting ready for work when I received a text from him asking me to come downstairs. I knew something was up and rushed down to find him in his bed, face wincing in pain. He said he felt like his body was on fire, yet he was freezing cold, extreme joint pain especially in his ankles, headache, and pain in his liver area. He also felt faint and was pale and almost fainted when he tried to go to the bathroom. He felt fine when he went to bed the night before but symptoms started in around 3AM. I called the transplant coordinator who said he needed to come straight to the ER at the U. Kellen took him up while I went to work. Clark said his discomfort lifted some on the drive up. When they got there, Clark stood to get out of the car while Kellen got a wheelchair. Kellen turned around just in time to see the blank stare on Clark's face and catch him as he went down. The valet helped Kellen lift Clark into the wheelchair and he started to become aware again once inside.

In the ER, they gave him saline and drew blood for testing. The liver team was called in and throughout the day he had several more tests including a CT Scan and an ultrasound. Clark said that all other symptoms had gone away but his "liver area hurt super bad." There was talk of some kind of node on his liver but we are not sure what that means or if it even is. They also said something about infection so he was getting an IV antibiotic drip over the course of three hours because it's so potent it would be harmful if it went in too quickly. We are hoping to have more answers today as results come in.

Clark sent me a text letting me know where he was being admitted to. It said, "2nd floor. Do u know if I have been there?" I laughed and relied, "The SICU is on 2nd floor. Ya you've been there!" Mom responded with, "You lived there!" Clark said he is in the room where he saw bugs and mice. Wonder if they've taken care of that problem yet!

Nurse Kristin

2010-02-03T08:42:00.003-07:00

Ha, that'll be the day. Everyone keeps saying I should go to nursing school with everything that I do here with Clark. I think they mean I SHOULD go to nursing school because I have no idea what I'm doing! I can't believe some of the things they allow me to do. I really don't do that much but with the training I've had - NONE - it sometimes gets a little scary for me and Clark.

Clark is on two different IV antibiotics right now. One is for the CMV and the other is for the organism in his urine. He receives one twice a day and the other three times a day so he is on IV 8 hours out of the day. One of them is pretty harsh and gives him pain in his shoulder as it goes in, his eyes sting and get blurry, and it has killed his appetite. Someone made a lot of money by inventing a way to administer IVs at home. It is premeasured in a little bulb that I hook up to his pick line and it goes in on it's own. I don't know how he does it but Clark has figured out how to do it himself if needed. He was coming home from infusion one day when it was time to hook up. He pulled off into a Taco Bell parking lot and started "shooting up." He said he got a lot of weird looks from passer-bys and was just waiting for the cops to show up.

I have always had a paranoia of getting air in the veins. I think it started when I would watch my dad give shots and asked him why he has to flick the syringe and squirt some out the top. He must have answered something like "if you get even one air bubble in your veins you will die!" That stuck with me and I think about it every time I get a shot or when I would donate plasma. I'm not afraid of needles but I'm afraid of air! Clark has a pick line in his arm to draw and administer from so he doesn't have to get poked every time. Even in the hospitals there are only certain people who can use Clark's pick line so when I found out that I was going to be using it at home I was a little intimidated. It's really easy but then there's the air. I was aspirating the heparin from his line one night and when I drew back on the syringe, nothing came. Clark looked down and said, "Oh, look at those air bubbles in my line." I froze! I didn't know what to do. I couldn't keep drawing because nothing was coming out, yet I couldn't push anything through because the air would go straight in and kill him. Clark laughed at me (Clark laughs when he's nervous) and I just sat there holding the syringe making sure not to push or pull. Clark said, "You have to push it through. There's nothing else you can do." He tried to be comforting by telling me that all the nurses say it takes a lot of air to kill someone. How much is a lot? I freaked and told him I couldn't do it. He said he would do it himself if I just hooked it up. Taking a deep breath and looking away, I pushed the saline back through and guess what, Clark is still alive today.

Next challenge - giving a shot. Clark receives a Neupogen shot which boosts his white blood cell count. He was getting it at the hospital but since they want all his levels way up, they sent three doses to be administered at home. I have never given a shot before except to a cat. Clark was pretty nervous and coached me on how to do it. I think I was more nervous than he was but tried not to let on to him. This is a painful shot even when a nurse gives it so I didn't want to add to that pain by doing something wrong. Clark said you can't go slow, you have to go fast but not to jab it in. We went back and forth for a few minutes before I finally jabbed it in when he wasn't expecting it. I surprised myself. He said it hurt, but only just as bad as usual. The next night went much better. I hope I don't have to get used to it though. The video isn't the best quality, it's dark and you can't see faces, but you can still hear us.

Those are my two horror stories so far. Not hoping to add to the list.

Turn off the music at the bottom of the page before clicking play!

Hometown Hero

2010-01-30T09:59:00.006-07:00

When I woke Clark up this morning to start his IV he said, "I had a dream that I went back to Watertown and they had a parade and everything for me. I was famous! Everyone wanted to see my scar." I told him it's not too far off from the truth.

This is an article from Pizza Ranch's Newsletter. Click on the image to enlarge.

In and Out

2010-01-21T14:33:00.006-07:00

No, not the burger. Although they are mighty tasty and we have enjoyed them once since they started popping up in Utah. Rather, in and out of the hospital. Clark was discharged from the U on Tuesday and readmitted to the Huntsman on Thursday. We should start saying that Clark is having visits home instead of visits to the hospital. Between American Fork, the U, and Huntsman, he really spends more time there than he does here.

He was admitted because his levels were at an all time low. Clark knew something was up by the way he was feeling. He was supposed to have an infusion on Monday but was in the hospital and they didn't do it for some reason. So when he went for his infusion on Thursday at American Fork he was really feeling it. He barely made it in. He got light headed and was seeing stars as he walked through the doors. The threshold they usually want his platelet count in is 10-20 and Clark's was at 3. His hematocrit was 10 and they want that at 24. While at the Huntsman, they wanted "tank him up" with blood and platelets to get his counts back at a healthy level. They said they will aggressively get his platelets up and bring the bleeding down. He was being infused around the clock the whole time he was there. They said that they will "keep him here as long as they feel it's unsafe to be outside and he's not needing daily transfusions." They originally estimated his stay to be 3 days but he was discharged the very next day.

Clark had blood in his urine once in the last few days and while there they also found an organism in his urine. It is contagious so staff had to gown up and they made sure he was using his own bathroom at home. He is being treated for that with an IV antibiotic three times a day.
We have heard what a nice facility the Huntsman Cancer Institute is and we were not disappointed. The rooms had more of a hotel feel than a hospital feel. They were big, had a pull out couch for two to sleep on, a desk area, closets, big bathroom, and even the colors were cozy and warm. You order your food off The Point Bistro menu and it's brought to you by "room service" whenever you want it. Clark said it was too bad that he didn't have a room like that to stay in when he was in the hospital for months on end. Even though they were nice, he was glad that he only had a one night stay.

C-dif

2010-01-18T14:55:00.010-07:00

Clark is still in the hospital. There was talk of releasing him yesterday but he had a 104 fever so they decided to keep and monitor him longer. He was also experiencing pain in his side which they thought might be a reaction to the antibiotics and the CMV working its way out. Another stool sample showed an infection called C-dif (I think? I wasn't there for this conversation). For this he needs to take a pill three times a day for a week and shouldn't have anymore problems with it. As much as he hates it, looks like it was a good thing he was in the hospital to catch these things. Plans are for him to come home tomorrow.

Some have asked if it's nice to have our house back to ourselves for a bit. Honestly, no. We like having Clark here and actually miss that he's gone. I'm sure Hemi does too. For the whole first day she paced the house whining. Willow always asks where he is. "Oh, he's at the hopisal? He's getting blood?" I have pulled four loads of laundry from him room though. It's nice to know he's being taken care of, even if he does choose to eat Ramen or Pasta Roni over a homemade meal.

That being said . . . My confessions . . . We have eaten salmon and drank grapefruit juice while he's been gone! MMmmmm! One he hates, the other he loves but can't have. Both would make me feel guilty enjoying them in front of him.

"Home Sweet Home"

2010-01-16T09:20:00.005-07:00

This was what Clark said as he walked into his hospital room last night. Ya, that's right. He was admitted to the U. As you may recall he was supposed to go the hospital on Thursday to remove the blockage in his bile duct. They called on Wednesday and said that they would wait until after the upcoming BMT. The drainage tube would just create an easy passageway for infection and bacteria. This along with his even lower immune system during the BMT, not a great combination. So he was thrilled not to have to stay in the hospital and went to the Jazz vs. Calvs game instead!

On Friday they called Clark, wanting him to come in for blood on Saturday at Huntsman. Clark asked if there was anyway he could get it that day at American Fork. Of course that was fine. Sometimes they just don't think of the inconvenience it is to drive up there. Just before getting hooked up for blood, his phone rang again. This time it was GI at the hospital. Results from his colonoscopy biopsy were in and he has a virus that needs immediate treatment. They wanted him to come in ASAP but it takes a couple hours to get blood, home to pack and eat, and an hour drive. We arrived at the hospital at 9:00PM. Admitting didn't have any orders and didn't know where to send us. Great! After much searching, a few phone calls, and an hours wait, Clark had a room.

He is on the 5th floor, just next door to where he was months ago. Yoko, one of our favorite nurses from before, was his nurse last night. She remembered him too. Clark said it felt weird to be in that room and able to move around. He recalled memories or his first shower and that "dang ol' enema." Clark weighed in at 140 lbs, which is the same weight he was discharged at two months ago.
So the diagnosis? Clark has CMV colitis. It is a virus, similar to Epstein Barr or Mono in that many "normal" people get it, have mild symptoms, get over it, and never even know they had it. On the other hand, it can wreak havoc in immunocompromised people. It can show up in many areas like the eyes, colon - as in Clark's case, and what is a major concern - the transplanted organ. It is also the type of virus that once you have it you always have it and it can flare up at anytime. He will receive a 14 day course of IV antibiotic medication but is only expected to be in the hospital for 2-3 days. We know how quickly all of this can change and hope for the best.

Bye, Bye Bentley

2010-01-13T15:19:00.002-07:00

Anyone who knows Clark, knows that he LOVES his dogs. He got Hemi three years ago and Bentley shortly after. Both dogs are always by Clark's side, in his bed, on the road, and everywhere in between. It was a hard decision, but Clark decided to sell Bentley as it was best for both of them. Clark could no longer care for both dogs and give Bentley the time and attention he needed. He was on KSL for only a few days before his new family came to get him. They have already emailed us that they are very happy with Bentley and said he is a great fit for their family.

On The Road Again

2010-01-13T13:48:00.003-07:00

At his last visit, Clark asked Dr. Hutson if he could start driving again. A smile came across his face when Hutson answered, "Well, I don't see why not." Clark said, "It's been over six months since I've driven. It'll be like I'm 16 again!" A big thanks to Eric and Kate and the Bishop for fixing up and taking such good care of his car.

Clark said he wasn't even going to try to date until he could drive again. Ladies watch out!

Don't tell Mom, but this picture is of Clark driving . . . on the interstate.

The Latest

2010-01-13T10:30:00.006-07:00

Even though our updates are coming less often, Clark has had a lot going on lately. We have been at one of the three hospitals he frequents a couple times a week. There are three major conditions he is dealing with right now.

1. He was told last week that a bone marrow transplant is necessary and they are going to move forward with it as soon as he gets insurance. We have been in the application process for Medicaid since October and it is slow moving. We were just told yesterday that he was approved by the medical board, now need approval from the financial board. We need to fax them a lot of information and hopefully he can get approved. It will be such a blessing if he gets on Medicaid. I don't know what he will do without it. When he was discharged from the hospital he was at $1.3 million. Since then he has had MRIs, Ultrasounds, Biopsies, Home health care, prescriptions, and regular infusions. I bet he has already passed the $2 million mark. Anyway, back to the BMT, we don't have a time line because it's dependent on the insurance. They said they will probably use the adult rather than the minor for a donor, meaning Wyatt. They will look at other aspects of their health as well. Clark isn't scared for the BMT. He was somewhat relieved to have an answer and a plan of attack. He is dreading the hospital stay which will be 4-6 weeks if everything goes well.

2. A blockage was found in the liver in an MRI done just before Christmas. He is scheduled for a procedure to remove it on Thursday. They said there are a lot of risks involved in Clark's case. Some are excessive bleeding because of low platelets and infection to the liver. The blockage is in the bile duct, which has caused a bile leak. So they have to insert a drainage tube through his rib cage to drain the bile before they can clear the blockage. Clark was very worried about this procedure but received a comforting blessing last night that all will be well.

3. While at the hospital, they sent him for an urgent colonoscopy, which turned our 1 hour visit into 10. We haven't discussed this on the blog before because it is a little more personal, but Clark has had frank blood in his bowel movements. That's the best I can think to describe it. I can't say he has had blood in his stood because there is no stool with it. Since he has low platelets, there is a lot of bleeding! You get the picture. And just in case you don't . . . Often times it keeps him at home instead of going to church, family gatherings, or other activities. He can always tell when his platelets are low. They were surprised that he was walking and not in any pain. The colonoscopy showed that he has "a continuous area of bleeding ulcerated mucosa with nodularity and stigmata . . . " blah blah blah! Pretty much he has a tumor or ulcer in his colon. In Dr. Hutson's words, "I don't know what the hell this is. I have never seen it before in a liver transplant patient." He has a few ideas of what it could be but will not know what it is or how to treat it until they see the biopsies under a microscope. Worse case scenario, which we have become accustomed to consider, he will have that portion of his colon removed. More on this by Wednesday or Thursday.

Huh, is that all? Yes, for now that is all!

Clark's Favorite Holiday is Christmas

2010-01-01T14:19:00.013-07:00

Clark in his new suit with Bishop Sampson

In a phone conversation with Clark, shortly after he got out of the hospital, he became emotional as he expressed to me that Christmas is his favorite holiday and he wouldn't be able to come HOME this year. I replied that my car drives West as easy as it does East, South, and North and that I'd bring our family to him this year rather than him back to South Dakota. I could feel his excitement and relief immediately. Plans started right away with getting schedules for school and jobs cleared. We too were excited that we could all be together again. Due to the bad storm being forecasted our plans for leaving changed slightly. We decided to leave earlier than planned to try beating the snow storm expected in SD. Ryan came home from Minneapolis on Tuesday afternoon, we packed four people per two vehicles along with winter gear, snacks, gifts, meat for Kristin's freezer, and a washer and dryer for Kristin too. Ryan, Bjorn and Myls headed to Sioux Falls to pick Fletcher up once he got off work at Tradehome Shoes about 10:00 PM. Dave, Wyatt, Huxley, and I dropped our Yorkie, Mercedes off with my sister Loy's family to watch while we were away. We met up with the other boys in Sioux Falls and began our long journey just after 11:00 PM. The roads needed to be respected but we knew they weren't as bad as they soon would be once the storm hits. Fletcher drove Ryan's truck following behind me driving Dave's truck. We met up with snow and fog in the Rapid City area so it wasn't as easy seeing the boys behind us. I was moving along pretty good when I got a phone call from Fletcher that they had run out of gas, I didn't even know he wasn't behind me anymore. It wasn't so funny then as it is now, but we went 21 miles into Rapid City and back out with gas for the boys who were stranded. That cost us over an hours traveling time. Reason? They said they were listening to "tunes" and didn't pay attention to the gas gauge. Dave's tank is twice the size of Ryan's so we didn't even think about filling up with gas yet. We sure kept an eye on things better after that. The farther we got from SD the better the roads were. With all the extra drivers we drove the trip straight through, however my trip alone back in August was faster than this trip. It was great to be in Utah with the kids.

The morning and afternoon of Christmas Eve was spent back at the hospital. Dave and I took Clark to an appointment that had been scheduled for an ultrasound on his liver with concern of low blood flow. While there, the doctor ordered an MRI to follow right away that afternoon. We did have time to take Clark out for a nice breakfast between appointments since he had to be fasting for the ultrasound. It was very hard for me to walk back into that hospital. Memories surfaced quickly and I was choked up as I walked along side of Clark this time.

Kristin had made our traditional Christmas Eve supper of Chili and Cornbread, which we totally enjoyed. She is such a great cook. We hung our ornaments on Kristin's tree and told why we chose the ornaments we did, then opened our gifts. Last we made a visit to Bishop Sampson's house about 11:00PM with a gift of appreciation for him from our family.

Clark had told me about the ornament he found online. It was so cute that I had to copy it and emboider him a sweatshirt with it on. It says, "I CONTAIN RECYCLED PARTS". I embroidered sweatshirts for each of the kids that applied to their personalities. Clark has received a lot of comments on his sweatshirt already. We found that Clark's, Kristin's, Dave's, and my ornaments all were associated with Clark's liver transplant.

We took family pictures on Saturday before four of the boys headed back to South Dakota. Dave, Myls, Huxley, and I stayed another day. We were greeted back in South Dakota with a lot of snow, 22 inches at home. The boys moved a lot of snow before we got home. Dave spent the next two days finishing up moving the massive amount of snow in our yard.

Clark called me yesterday with the results from his MRI. Things aren't as good as we hoped as it was determined that one of the arteries going to Clark's liver is blocked and he also has some stones in his liver. Clark has an appointment with his doctor on Wednesday in which we will then learn what the plan will be to correct his condition. Please continue to keep Clark in your prayers. He has a long way to go yet.

The Lord has been good to us and we will forever acknowledge that, however I must admit that I was excited to see 2009 end and a new year begin. My prayer is for 2010 to bring good health and a prosperous life to Clark. Clark spent his New Years Eve with the Singles Ward at a party in their church. May we all set and reach our desired goals. Our prayer proceeds for the donor family to continue finding peace and closure. We continue to remember your generous gift.

Qualifying Donors Named

2010-01-01T13:54:00.004-07:00

The names of the boys that match as bone marrow donors for Clark have been announced. Both Wyatt and Bjorn have matching bone marrow for Clark and are willing to do what ever is needed if and when the time comes for a transplant. Clark continues to need transfusions weekly but there is some improvement with the levels. We continue to hope and pray that a BMT will not be needed. Doctors are not in a hurry to make that decision at this time as the blood is the last thing to stabilize after transplants. However, we are hoping a decision will be made some time in February. Bjorn was a bit nervous in even getting his blood drawn for the test but knows he can step it up if needed. Wyatt on the other hand says he is ready anytime. If a BMT is needed, they will do some secondary tests on each of these boys to decided which ONE will donate. We are behind you all the way boys, each one of you.

Kryptonite

2009-12-30T07:12:00.003-07:00

Even superheros have a weakness. This is Clark's!

Clark cannot eat grapefruit or drink the juice because it cancels out his anti-rejection meds. Who knew? Unfortunately, this was one of his favorite fruits and he would drink grapefruit juice almost daily. It is also one of the last things he bought before going into the hospital. It truly is his Kryptonite.

Join in Fast for Clark

2009-12-05T09:11:00.005-07:00

We would like to invite everyone to participate in a fast for Clark this Sunday, Dec. 6. Our specific plea is that his bone marrow will start to function and a Bone Marrow Transplant will not be needed. Also, Clark's liver functions are elevated again. They adjusted his meds and did an ultrasound to try to figure out why and get on top of it quickly. I think that we were all humbled and prayerful a couple months ago when things were really scary for Clark and we saw miracles worked by Heavenly Father. We need another! I have a testimony of fasting. I am grateful that we are able to submit ourselves and demonstrate our willingness to put off the natural man. There are very few ways that we have to outwardly show the faith we inwardly carry.

If you are unfamiliar with fasting, here are a couple references.

Esther 4:16
Mark 9:29

The Blessings of a Proper Fast
Carl B. Pratt, Ensign, Nov 2004, 47

Fasting with Power
Shayne M. Bowen, Ensign, Apr 2009, 64–67

The Law of the Fast
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Ensign, May 2001, 73

Clark's Brothers Gather for Test

2009-11-18T09:18:00.007-07:00

Pick Me, Pick Me! Clark's five "full" brothers gathered from North Dakota, Sioux Falls and Watertown to begin the testing process as a Bone Marrow Donor. As their brother Clark waits in Utah for his own bone marrow to begin functioning and producing white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, these five boys left their jobs and school to be at Brown Clinic in Watertown this morning, to have their blood drawn and shipped to the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. Clark is at risk of needing a bone marrow transplant in the near future. Currently he goes to the hospital two to three times a week for blood transfusions while they also try adjusting medications in hopes that his own body will soon take over and begin functioning properly. Meanwhile, because of the time involved in testing for a donor for a near perfect match, we are moving forward with the testing so the donor can be named. You see, in my child bearing years Jim and I only planned on having six children. When Jim and I got married, I already had a son (Ryan) from a previous marriage. Our first child together was a beautiful little girl (Kristin) and then to follow came four more boys (Clark, Myls, Wyatt, and Fletcher). In time, I pouted and begged Jim to let me have just one more baby (even though we had agreed on six) in hopes to have another girl. He finally gave in but little did we know at that time, that I was already pregnant with Bjorn. Well you know the rest of the story. I didn't want Bjorn to be alone with the 3 year gap between him and Fletcher so it was easy to convince Jim that we should try just one more time for a girl, but this time we got Huxley. Eight was enough! Today I give much thanks for all these boys and understand now the purpose. The best bone marrow donors come from same sex gender and "full" sibling. Clark hasn't been very lucky with many things but IS lucky to have five chances for a perfect match within in own brothers. Of course Ryan who is a half brother, and Kristin & I are not of the same gender we wouldn't qualify. The youngest and most healthy boy is who they will hope first to be a match and work up from there. Guess that puts those last two little boys I begged for on the top of the list. If the transplant takes place, the donor will need to go to Utah for approximately 2 weeks. First Clark will be put in the hospital where he will receive chemo and or radiation for a week before, to kill off the abnormal blood cells. The donor will undergo a surgery where long needles are drilled in the hip and suck out one to two quart of bone marrow and blood. Usually about 20 entries are needed. He will be hospitalized over night but necessary to stay in the area for follow up. Once the bone marrow is harvested from the donor, Clark will be waiting to receive it by infusion by a port placed near his heart. No incisions are necessary for Clark or the donor. Clark's stay will be four to eight weeks if all goes as planned. It is expected that Clark will be very sick during that time until the new bone marrow graphs and takes over. The donor will feel like he has a broken bone in the area of harvest and will replace his own bone marrow in about four weeks. Our family would request from family, friends, and blog followers, specific prayers that the transplant will not be needed. For today, I stood with tears in my eyes as I watched my five sons step up and have their blood drawn knowing that any one of them could be the one to be the donor. Which one will it be?

This is Huxley, he is 14 years old. He is the youngest and healthy so chances are good he is it!

This is Bjorn, he is 16 years old. He is the one I was already pregnant with while the begging was going on for one more baby. Could it be him?

This is Fletcher, he is 19 years old and lives and works in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Is it him?

This is Wyatt, he is 20 years old and works in North Dakota. Is it him?

This is Myls, he is 22 years old and works in North Dakota. Or, is it him?

Questions

2009-11-17T21:24:00.003-07:00

This is just a small post for those of u who have questions for me. i know alot of u do so ask away. dont be afraid. u can ask anything big or small. it will also help me to post more.

I bet ur all thinking "It's about time"

2009-11-17T16:31:00.001-07:00

well here i am, miracle man, superman, survivor, brother, and son to all of u. i am not good with thinking of things to write so i will try my best. I know alot of u have been asking me to post something, so here it goes. Its been nice being out of the hospital now for the past 2 weeks. i have been shopping alot...lol...for video games and new clothes cause none of my old clothes fit. I am still down 30 pounds. I dont recall somethings that happened to me in the hospital so i too am very grateful for this blog to remind me of the adventure. So what i am doin is writing all u for thanks to be there for me and to be such a big support for me in ur prayers, fasting, and whatever else people have done. I started at the very beginning of the blog and i will read through everything...comments and all posts. Then once i get through i will post again with more memory of my "Hotel" HAHA i mean hospital stay.

Therapy

2009-11-12T00:34:00.001-07:00

Clark is getting an early wake up call everyday. Home health comes on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Susan draws blood, checks his incision, takes vitals, and makes sure everything else is going well. They run labs on the blood to keep close tabs on his liver levels as well as his red cell, white cell, and platelet counts. Then the transplant team will call if they see anything out of alignment and either adjust his meds or order an infusion. Physical therapy comes every Tuesday and Thursday. Ian is usually here for 45 minutes unless Clark isn't feeling up for the task. If his blood or platelets are low, so is his strength and energy.Clark's weight continues to fluctuate a lot. His appetite is good but he still can't eat a lot in one sitting. I think the commercials in the hospital really worked as they were supposed to because the foods he's craving are mostly from restaurants. He's had Chick Fillet, Arby's, Domino's, Applebee's. Ligia, you're probably cringing right now. We've also been enjoying fresh juices almost everyday thanks to the juicer from Karla! We love it! Also thanks to Janeanne for the BBQ sauce all the way from North Dakota. With out that he might not get quite as much down. He puts it on everything.
Macaroni and cheese with hot dogs. To my credit, one of the first nights home from the hospital I asked Clark what meals he's craving and this was one. He also wanted Tater Tot Hotdish, Chicken Pot Pie, and Chicken Almond Ding. Mostly comfort foods from growing up. At least this is better than what the bishop fed him the other night. He came over with a plate of food from their FHE activity. Bishop opened the bun and there was no burger inside! We all had a good laugh. You can bet he was out the door and came back with armfuls of food. We are thankful for all the thoughtful visitors we've had. They have brought food, treats, services, and conversation. Thank you!

Clinic

2009-11-11T00:27:00.001-07:00

Clark had his first post transplant clinic today. It is pretty much just a check up to make sure everything is going well. We were able to combine several trips into one. First he received platelets which is a couple hour ordeal. Yesterday he got a phone call that his liver levels were showing signs of rejection so he also had to have a liver biopsy. Dr. Hutson said the liver looks healthy, it isn't enlarged, and the blood is flowing through it well so that was good news. Clark, and the rest of us, also learned that they removed his gal bladder during the transplant surgery. Who knew? I guess it's somewhat standard so that he doesn't have problems with it down the road. Then, finally, off to clinic. They were pleased with the healing of his incision and everything else looked great. We will be back next week.So after the long day at the hospital we headed home. All of this must have caught up with Clark because he was not feeling well at all. He was in a lot of pain from the biopsy and could barely walk. He was able to relax somewhat on the drive home but was still nauseated and uncomfortable. When we got home, I pulled McLane out of the car and looked up at Clark who was just standing beside the car, waiting. I noticed the blank stare on his face and asked if he was OK. With his head hanging, he managed to slowly shake his head back and forth. I quickly stood in front of him and told him that he could lean over on me if he needed to. Immediately, his body fell limp over my shoulder. Now what? I looked around and thankfully saw my neighbor's garage door opening. I yelled to her for help and she went to get Kellen. We got Clark inside and he started to come to. I don't know how long he was out but he doesn't remember anything from getting out of the car until he got inside. We laid him in his recliner and got his feet up. He started to feel better as the night went on. This was probably the scariest time I've had with his since he's been here. Hopefully it was just a combination of a long day, little to eat, a lot of pain, and it won't happen again.

Huntsman Center

2009-11-10T00:27:00.000-07:00

What a day! Clark and I were both a little nervous for this meeting with the Bone Marrow Transplant team at the Huntsman Center. Yet another Institution Clark can add to his list. We know there is a 98% chance he will have to have the Bone Marrow Transplant - BMT, but we're riding on the other 2%. I was busy taking notes so I could pass the info on to all of you so if this isn't the most coherent, that's why. I have about five pages of hen scratching to sort through.

We were just getting onto the Belt Route when Clark's phone rang. We were nervous enough already but when Alaina said that Clark's liver enzymes were elevated which is a sign that the body is rejecting the liver we didn't know what to think. They want him to come in tomorrow and have a liver biopsy to see what's going on. So, as hard as it was, we put that in the BACK of our minds so we could absorb everything else we were about to talk about.
Walking through the Huntsman Center, we couldn't help but notice the many people with smooth, shiny skin atop their heads. The chemo and loosing hair has been one of Clark's biggest worries with the BMT. We also saw Kellen's grandma, Grandma Davis, who volunteers there pushing a treat cart. One of her friends has been waiting for a liver since about June and just died last week because she didn't get one in time.

Once in the office we met first with a social worker. Both hospitals have been very good about providing emotional support. She talked with Clark and asked him all about how he's doing and what needs he may have. She asked if this whole experience has affected him spiritually. Clark answered, "It has pretty much changed me 100%." As Bruce later said, "If this has helped his spiritually then it's all been worth it." She also asked what he is looking forward to when this is all over. He answered, "Going back to work, Christmas, and Alaska."

Even though it isn't for sure that Clark will have the transplant, they are typing us siblings because it takes about two weeks to run all the tests. There is a 25% chance that a full blood sibling is a match. Because gender doesn't matter, they drew two vials of blood from me while I was in there today. They will take the youngest and healthiest match which would make me the last choice but you never know. I know we would all gladly be the donor if it was needed.

Dr Boyer explained that the virus that attacked Clark's liver triggered and immune response that went crazy and attacked the marrow. This is a known but rare case. Dr. Boyer said he has never personally been involved in a BMT of someone who had a liver transplant, although it is in the literature. They are calling Clark's condition severe acute aplastic anemia. When looking at a chart of Clark's levels, they saw that he did have a response to meds awhile back but they have continued to drop since. This gave them hope that by increasing his dose, they may get another response. He said that Clark is on a weak dose compared to what they use. This may also be the cause of his elevated liver enzymes. The question is . . . how much time and effort do they put into giving the immunosuppression to do it's job as an alternative to transplant?

IF Clark needs the transplant, he would first undergo a harsh dose of chemo for 5-7 days. This will kill all the immune cells to create a clean slate for the healthy stem cells to rebuild. This news was somewhat relieving and Clark responded, "Ah I can be sick for a week." This is an extremely isolating time because of his low immune system. Ok, I'm not going to write this as if it's Clark anymore. Law of Attraction right! The recipient will receive the new stem cells through a line just like an infusion. So the hardest part is really the chemo and being isolated. Post transplant, the patient needs to stay within 45 minutes of the hospital for 100 days, including the 4-6 weeks in the hospital. More anti rejection meds are required but unlike the liver meds, these can be weened completely, usually one year post transplant. This creates a new immune system from the donor. Allergies are part of the immune cells and sometimes transferred. Thankfully there are little or none of those in our family. The immune system can go overboard and attack the recipient, even with a perfect match. This is called Graph vs. Host Virus - GVH. Usually it attacks the skin, live, and intestinal track. Because the liver is in danger with GVH, it makes Clark's case a little more tricky. The large amount of drugs the recipient receives need to be metabolized by the liver so they need to make sure Clark's liver would be up for the task. Dr. Boyer said, "This is about as complicated as it can get, if you can imagine that." Clark and I both chuckled a little and Clark said, "Ya! I can imagine that!"

For the donor: The donor will need to be in Utah for about two weeks during this time for clearance and the procedure. It is a surgical procedure where the donor is under general anesthesia. They are face down and about 20 draws of marrow are taken from the hip bone through the back. They stay in the hospital over night, have pain for about a week, maybe some anemia, and they're on their way. No long term effects.

Clark is the first person from South Dakota to put a pin in the map.

Overall, we left feeling better than when we went in. We thought we would have a date for a transplant when we left but instead we have hope that one won't be needed at all. Again, it would be a miracle but now it doesn't seem like a far stretch medically. I pray that Clark's immune system will respond to the meds and his marrow will start to function as it was designed. I know Heavenly Father has the power to do this. I'm thankful for the trial of faith I've had and know that this is only another testimony builder. Let's grow together. If we unite in prayer once again I know we will see a miracle.

Infusions

2009-11-07T00:22:00.000-07:00

Since Clark's discharge, he has been going back to the hospital almost every other day for infusions. Home health comes to the house to draw blood every Mon, Wed, and Fri morning. Usually by that same afternoon, we receive a phone call that Clark needs to head immediately to the hospital because his levels are too low. Once she said that he wasn't even to shave because his platelets were so low. These infusions take several hours, and for one reason or another, they have taken even longer for Clark. Once they were training a new nurse, another time someone else had a reaction.
Probably the longest one of all was when we were out and about having a great day. We went to Kate's and Clark got a hair cut and saw his dogs. Then we went to RC Willey and he picked out his chair, which he has slept in about every night since. His chair became his bed and his bed became a table. Then we were at the mall to pick out a hat when the phone rang. Alaina said we were to come straight to the hospital and even though the Infusion Clinic was soon closing, the staff was being held for Clark. We arrived at the hospital at about 3:45 and walked out after 1:00AM. He received two units of packed red blood. The orders were for three but it was taking way too long. Thankfully the kids were so good and attracted much attention from the nurses. Exhausted, I walked out to get the car warmed up and pulled to the front door. I strapped both kids in, turned the key, and nothing. The car wouldn't even turn over. Both babies were now crying because they were so tired. At this point I just laughed. I thought, "What else?" Thankfully it was just a dead battery and security was able to jump us.I could be caught up on the blog with all the hours I've spent in waiting rooms at the hospital. But of course my hands are full juggling two kids instead of a computer. I've even become friends with the receptionist. She took Willow for a walk and we are exchanging recipes. I'm addicted to recipes if you don't know. I'll let you know how they turn out. Even though it's hard at times, I never mind all this. I will do anything it takes to help Clark improve. Each day I'm praying that his bone marrow will kick in and we will not get the call to come for infusions. This is just one more test of our faith. I feel that so many were joined together in prayer and fasting during the scary times a few months ago and now we have eased back. I think our prayers need to be just as pleading for Clark now. Pleading that he will not have to go through a bone marrow transplant. That will be yet another miracle, I know, but I have faith it can happen.

On The Mend

2009-11-05T14:09:00.009-07:00

As mom said, "It must be a beautiful sight to look around and see Clark laying there." And it is. The first couple days he was here it was nice to hear him in his room, singing along with his music, and see him when he'd fallen asleep in my recliner upstairs for several hours. It has been great to have him here with us and doing so well. It didn't take Willow long to adjust to our live-in guest either. She loves to check on him first thing in the morning and always asks if he feels better. The very first night he was here she played XBox with him and now has a permanent seat in front of his TV in her panda chair. We get a good laugh out of her because of how she says Clark's name. Willow has always been a great talker but she says her c's and k's like t's. So Clark's name comes out "Tart". To make it even funnier, somehow she scrambled her sounds a little more and now she adds an f to the beginning and calls him, "Untle Fart"! Ah, that's great!Home health comes out every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. They draw labs, change his dressing and monitor his wound, clean and flush his pic line, and make sure that he's he's doing well overall. Clark is sharp on his meds and procedures, even catching the nurses many times. I do his dressing change on the days Home Health doesn't come. I was nervous at first but am getting better with it. His wound is healing very well and very fast. We can notice considerable differences each time we change his dressing. He has gained a few pounds already and increases his strength and energy everyday. He can do stairs much better and faster and I rarely have to help him. He still gets short of breath at times but keeps working hard. He isn't doing physical therapy right now but is up and moving around more than he was in the hospital.

Clark continues to read the blog. He keeps up with all of your comments and often has read them before I do. He'll ask, "Did you see so-and-so's comment? It was really good," or "That was a great quote." He mentioned that he's going to put a post up one of these days so - Stay Posted! I've encouraged him to write as much of his experiences down as possible while they're still fresh, for the sake of preserving history. He is a little discouraged because his meds give him attention tremors. He shakes when he types or writes which is frustrating for him. He understands the value of getting it out on paper in his own words so I know it will come when he's inspired.

Discharge

2009-11-03T22:03:00.005-07:00

The big day we have all been waiting for finally arrived. I hurried to the hospital knowing that Clark would be anxious and nervous about this day. When I arrived he was still waiting for the pharmacist to come with all his meds and a short orientation on each of them.. In the meantime we packed up the rest of his things and straightened his room a bit. Dr. Box and his team stopped by for any last questions and well wishes. I listened to Dr. Box's words very carefully as he said that at Clark's next visit with the bone marrow transplant team, they would discus "IF and when" he would need the transplant. Given his levels, it would be a miracle if he didn't need a transplant but I have seen a few of those over the past months.Only a few hours later than expected, we were ready to leave. But not without taking a trip through all the units Clark had stayed in in the hospital. First was the SICU. I pushed Clark through the doors in a wheelchair but he said that the nurses said that the next time they see him he better be walking. So we stopped the chair and he stood up, walked a few steps, then stopped. We were right outside HIS room when he was in isolation. Clark endured a lot in that room, and now in his place was another man, tube down his throat, cords, tubes, and machines everywhere, loving family at his side. Clark couldn't take the sight and broke down crying, unable even to talk. He said how hard it was for him to see these people and know that that was him only a short time ago.Terri was the first of his former nurses to come running and give Clark a hug. Dave was also there and they both congratulated him, wished him well, and asked him to stop by again. Next we walked through Intermediate care. He wasn't there for long but all the staff remembered him. Last we hit the 5th floor where Clark hoped to see Dallas but he wasn't working.

Earlier, Clark had turned away his lunch because we thought we would be leaving much sooner than we did. Now almost 3:00 we were all hungry and still at the hospital. Clark loves broccoli cheese soup and the hospital makes a pretty tasty bowl of it. Clark asked for it everyday but they never had it. When he looked at the menu of the lunch he sent away, wouldn't you know, broccoli cheese soup. So Clark's first meal after discharge was right in the cafeteria to get a bowl of broccoli cheese soup. Eric and Kate, who were kind enough to watch my kids this whole time, joined us.Finally it was time for Clark to go home. We were blessed with a beautiful November day of sunshine and warm temperatures, although the sun hurt Clark's eyes for some reason. They said he could take the wheelchair out but we graciously refused as the sight we have all been anticipating is to see him WALK out of the hospital doors . . . and he did. Again some emotions came to the surface when he was surprised by his ride home, his own car. Eric and Kate repaired some damage that had been done in an accident just weeks before Clark went in and this was the first he saw it. As he walked toward his car he said, "Ah that looks good!", then buried his head in Eric's shoulder.I looked around at all the people who probably wondered what the big deal was as we videoed and took pictures. They had no idea that this frail, thin, young man had just escaped death and what a miracle that he is alive, walking, and going home. Looking at him you would not call him strong but he has fought harder than most of us ever will, and still has much of a fight ahead. It felt good to drive away from the hospital, this time with Clark riding shotgun.As we drove, Clark commented that he was a little nervous to ride in a car and that everyone seemed to be going so fast. It felt strange for him to see all the cars and people rushing about their day. He talked several times about how anxious he was to go back to work. We made a quick stop at Best Buy to get a game. I offered to get it but Clark wanted to go in. He was a little self-conscious about how he looked with his thin hair and mask and wondered what others must think of him. He said that others would probably look at him as he used to look at people with masks. Again, perspective was gained. We also stopped by the bishop's shop on our way. He was very excited to see Clark and said that he would get him right in to give a talk in church. Last but not least, we went to see his dogs. They were as excited as he was and jumped up on him whining. We visited with the Larson's for a bit before going home.
I'm thankful to have Clark in my home and grateful that I can care for him during his recovery. It was an exciting day, a little bitter-sweet though given the unknown projection for the bone marrow transplant. Clark said he can go though anything it takes, as long as he's alive in the end.

Overwhelmed with Information

2009-11-02T15:42:00.005-07:00

(Monday's post a day late. Yes Clark was discharged Tuesday. That one is still to come.)

I can hardly believe that tomorrow is the day. It actually didn't hit me until Clark called and asked if I could be at the hospital at 3:00 today to go through discharge instructions. When I walked into Clark's room he was already talking to a guy and filling out paper work to try to get on financial aid. He said that Clark's bill is at $1,300,000 and charges are still coming in. Plus, a bone marrow transplant costs $500,000, given there are no complications that is. So the scare is that he will exceed his $2 million lifetime max. Also, long-term, his 15 different meds will cost about $100 - $200 each month. We are hoping that he will qualify for some assistance so that money doesn't have to be a stress for him on top of everything else he is dealing with.

The transplant team stopped in to check up on him. Dr. Box said that he is scheduled to come back on Nov 10 for the marrow biopsy results and to meet with their team. He said that Clark's bone marrow has failed, probably as a result of the original condition that killed his liver. His bone marrow is not producing any of the three blood components - white or red blood cells, or platelets. He has been receiving transfusions and injections to keep these levels up and will continue to receive them as needed. No other organs appear to be under attack at this time but they will be watchful for that in the future. One of the ladies was especially excited to see Clark. She said, "It's so awesome to see how good he looks, last time I saw him was in intensive care." He's come a long way since then. Dr. Sussman has called Clark's condition HHV6 and said that it is a rare virus that attacked the liver and he has only seen one other patient with it in 12 years.

Clark is worried about some of the side effects. When he learned that Dr. Box had a liver transplant he knew that he was the perfect person to ask. Clark asked about sun exposure. Dr. Box explained that Clark's medications cause his cells to have a hay day in the sun, leading to skin cancer. He will need to wear a high SPF sunscreen or long sleeves and a hat whenever outside. He will also need to see a dermatologist 3-4 times a year for examinations at first. It will taper off but he should never go less than twice a year.

Then he asked Dr. Box if he also lost all his hair. Dr. Box looked right at Clark and answered, "Oh you are way sicker! You are about as sick as anybody we take care of that survives!" He explained that Clark's body was shutting down and they were trying to keep him nourished. So this along with the amount of infection, and the amount of meds, his body just had all it could do to stay alive and wasn't focused on his hair. Dr. Box assured him it would grow back and even said that one of the side effects that most people see as a negative is that it makes you grow hair. Great! Because of this med he will also have to pay close attention to his gum health. He was instructed to work the gums and get them well stimulated and cleaned twice daily with a soft bristled brush. He was told to be careful not to make them bleed and not even to floss while his immune system is so low. He should have a dental check every six months and optometrist once a year.

Clark will have a Home Health nurse coming out to help Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. They will draw labs and fax in results, as well as maintain his wound. It is critical that his labs are drawn and his meds are taken at the same time everyday. Labs will be drawn 30 minutes before he takes his meds so they will show his levels with the lowest amount of meds in his system. He will need to go back to the hospital for clinics every Wednesday. One of the things they will do there is monitor levels to detect rejection. The liver is an incredibly hearty organ and manages rejection well as long as they catch it and give steroids to correct it. If he was rejecting he would not feel any different until late stages so close and regular labs are really the only way to tell. He is taking 15 different meds, some of which will be tapered off. The hospital will give one months worth of supplies and meds at discharge, then it will come on mail order.

His incision continues to heal well. It is coming closer and closer together. As it does, Clark is getting sensation back in those areas. He said it hurts a little bit but mostly feels strange. He has noticed a huge change in his posture. He says he is hunchback but this is normal as the incision is stretching the skin from over his shoulders and back to pull the incision together. He was encouraged to stretch little by little and eventually get to where he can lay completely arched on an exercise ball.

Some of his other discharge instructions included no driving for about 3 months, not to lift over 5 pounds, to avoid crowds of people including church and to wear a mask when out or if visitors come over, and to gain weight. Clark check out of the hospital at 137 which is about 40 pounds less than his normal weight. For the rest of his life he needs to avoid sick birds and sick cats. He is never to change a litter box or even a baby's diaper. I told him he better let his wife know that before she says "I do." He is not to handle dirt, like gardening, at all this year but after that should always wear gloves. He needs to avoid buffets because the food is left out and open and many people come in contact with it.

We are all thankful that Clark has made it this far. Many of the doctors and nurses have told him that if he were older or in poor health previously he would never have made it. We are also nervous about what is to come with the bone marrow transplant. Dr. Box's closing council for Clark and everyone was that "too much reading on the Internet will have you dead and buried in a year. Just live your life." I think prayers are needed for Clark now just as much as ever.

Sinking

2009-10-27T11:38:00.006-06:00

After last night's visit with Clark I was excited to come home and tell you all about it. Then I received a phone call from Clark this morning that deflated my excitement. I will tell you the good news first.

We had a great visit with Clark last night. He said he has been craving pizza. You know all those hours of watching TV, seeing commercial after commercial, they really do work. I also needed to meet up with the girl who bought Clark's last puppy. So Kellen, the kids, two dogs, and I packed in the car and headed to the hospital, grabbing a couple pizzas on the way. Clark had asked the nurse if we could bring the dogs in and she said it was ok as long as they were up to date on their shots and bathed. So I walked right into Clark's room with Hemi who was excited to see him this time. When the nurse came in I was scolded and told to get the dog out ASAP! Whoa! At least they got a few kisses in first.

Because Clark will be staying with me they needed to teach me how to do his dressing change. I have seen it done a few times so the sight of it was not alarming to me, which surprised the nurse. Clark said he has seen it done so many times that he could teach me himself and he did have to teach another nurse how to do it earlier in the week. Thankfully the incision is healthy and healing well so it isn't too tricky. There are areas where the upper layer sof skin are almost touching! There are also areas that are still inches apart and weeping. They no longer think that Clark will need plastic surgery but are confident that it will heal well on it's own. As the nurse touched Clark's belly he commented how weird it is because he has no feeling in the area below his incision. We don't know if feeling will come back or not. Clark did say that he is a little nervous about going home. In the hospital he has immediate care if something were to go wrong. He's also worried about the flu and all the other sicknesses that are running rampant this season. It will be a big transition but he will do great.Finally, after the run in with the nurse and a dressing change lesson, we made it to Kellen, the kids, and our cold pizza. Clark surprised me by eating two pieces and started in on a third which he ended up packing away for later. We had a nice talk, met up with Becky to sell the puppy, and Clark headed back to his room for his Fantasy Basketball draft.

Stick a needle in my balloon. Clark called this morning and said that all his levels are off again. My heart sank! I didn't want to hear what this meant. His white blood count is low. He is isolated to his room and visitors are required to wear a mask and gown again. His platelets are low and he may have to have another transfusion. And . . . there is talk again about a bone marrow transplant. There are six different teams working together on Clark's case. They are going to try to fix things by adjusting his medication but if that doesn't work, he WILL NEED a bone marrow transplant. They told him that they are "hesitant to hold his meds and this is all trial and error." Not too comforting. Thankfully his liver is still doing well. This is all Clark knew for today. I felt bad for him being there, receiving this news alone. And all this, just one week before his much anticipated discharge date. We should know more in the days to come. Hopefully good news! Keep praying. Clark IS a Superman, but only through the power of Heavenly Father. We are searching for answers to questions that number the starts. Clark is growing weary but thankfully he can rest with Him until a brighter day, and he's ok.

Clark has a phone directly into his room and would love to hear from you. He continues to check the blog often and reads all your comments but a phone call is always nice too. His number is 801-585-8275. You can call anytime but you will have the most luck reaching him from 4:00 - 10:00 pm MST.

A Day in Rehab

2009-10-24T11:44:00.007-06:00

Yesterday I was able to leave both kids and go to rehab with Clark. I tell you it was a foreign feeling walking around with just my keys and my phone in my hands. It felt strange not to have a baby in each arm, a monster bag over my shoulder, and spit up somewhere on my clothes. It was fun to focus more on Clark though. I was able to see what he does in rehab and learn how to help him do his exercises as well as assist him on stairs. While I was there they were mostly working on balance. They had him stand on different surfaces and do certain movements while keeping his balance. I can see the competitive side of him as he pushed himself even further than what was expected. He even asked his therapist to step off a little so he could be more independent. Clark was also proud of his improvements in the 6 minute walk. The first day he was able to walk just over 700 feet in six minutes and by the second day he increased that to over 900 feet. He is doing a great job.Clark also does occupational therapy which helps him with everyday skills like showering, cooking, cleaning, and going out in public. This is a real treat for him. He was excited the other day when they made brownies. Next week they are going to make chili so Clark asked if I could bring Mom's White Chili recipe so he could ask his group if they would rather make that. He also asked me if I could make him Chicken Pot Pie because he's been craving it. Others are happy he's able to eat now and have brought him a few treats to enjoy. A cute box of Raisin Bran with the message "Glad you're RAISIN' up..." was brought in my the singles ward, Taylor make delicious homemade yogurt and rolls (both Clark's favorites), and the bag of chocolates Mom brought in that have been sitting unopened by his bed for months is now half gone.

I think therapy has helped Clark out a lot not only physically, but emotionally as well. It gives him confidence and purpose as well as pushes him to do better each day. He said that by 7:00 at night he is struggling to stay awake and sleeps much better at night. He is in relatively no pain except for his left should which was hurt when a nurse lifted him out of bed wrong, and his ankles hurt when he's exercising.

Clark said that his incision has stalled. It is no longer healing so the plastic surgery team is coming to look at it on Monday and may possibly do another surgery.

He has his X Box now so that helps him pass the time. Eric has been up a few times to play a game or two with him. He has a book on his nightstand but has only read a few pages. His concentration and the mental energy required are not quite up for a much reading. He watches a lot of TV and I told him he will be great at board/trivia games with all the little known facts he's learning.