Well, since Mike is updating this, it probably means bad news. I’ll save you what’s gone on since mid-July, but Anne’s downward spiral sped up. She is now pretty much confined to bed and at times struggles for breath. It was a major effort to get to the doctor’s office last time (7/25). After trying four different types of chemo since Nov., Anne decided to stop treatments. It is clear that nothing was working. We signed up for Hospice services last week. Our friend Debbie is visiting from VA for a week. Two of Anne’s longest time friends (I didn’t call them OLDEST, one is my age), Peg in Charlotte and Beth in Baltimore, called, wanting to come visit even if for a couple of hours. It was heartbreaking to tell them that Anne doesn’t want them to see her this way, and the stress of them making expensive trips for a couple of hours didn’t seem beneficial to anyone. Talking and eating take away from breathing.
What can you do? Just what you have been doing. Praying ….although now it is to help ease her suffering and to help me accept what will come; and to send her messages either on here or by mail (1244 Park St, Bowling Green, KY 42101). She has not been on the laptop in a few days but I will read her the messages. Talking wears her out so I hate to discourage visits and phone calls. If you do call please keep the conversation short or you plan on doing most of the talking. Mornings are not good for her. She is more alert/active afternoons and evenings.
I am working part-time at the moment; very fortunate that my boss and staff have been very understanding and accommodating. Anne can be left alone at times but I know that will change. I have been making sure to plan to come home by 3:30 in case we do have anyone wanting to visit.
Please keep in your prayers other family members of ours who are also facing difficulties. My stepmother’s niece, Sandra Snyder and her family on the loss of her husband, Dan, to Parkinson’s. My brother in law Bill Bayley, who lost his parents and wife in the last 2 years and now has terminal cancer. And my brother Dennis, who is having surgery due to cancer.
VISITOR COMMENTS FOR THIS POST
By Diane Turk — Aug 8, 2014 8:49am
I’m so sorry. I’m praying for you all. Tell Anne that I miss her and love her. Just lost my sister Christmas Day. I pray that she has peace and no pain and that God gives you strength.
By Staci Simpson — Aug 6, 2014 9:14pm
Prayers from me for both Anne and Mike. One of the best things about joining Kiwanis was getting to know you. You are such a great person in everyway. I pray that God will provide peace and strength for you and Mike. Love and prayers to you!
By Jane Grabruck — Aug 6, 2014 8:34pm
Anne and Mike, I am so glad we got to talk a little last week. I pray for you every day. Cancer sucks
as we know. I love you.
By Andrea Dennis — Aug 6, 2014 7:39pm
Love and prayers to you both. I hope you know what an inspiration you have been to me and countless others
By Karen Holland — Aug 6, 2014 5:25pm
Shirley forwarded your email to me, Anne. Typical you to start off calling yourself a coward. That description could not be further from the truth. You and Mike are two of the strongest, bravest, most inspirational people that I have ever met. You’re both a living example of faith in our God. How else could you show such grace in your suffering. You have touched so many and you are loved by so many. Prayers and love. Karen
By Beth Bishop — Aug 6, 2014 5:02pm
Dearest Anne, just popping in to say hello, and Hi to Pat and Mike also. I’m with you in spirit and with loving thoughts and prayers. And like you asked, with a joke or two:
What do you call a chicken crossing the road? Poultry in motion!!
What do you call a short fortune-teller who has escaped from prison? A small medium at large!
A rubber band pistol was confiscated from algebra class…..it was a weapon of math disruption.
Love to you all, and God Bless! Beth
By Denise Houchins — last edited Aug 6, 2014 11:50am
Mike I am tears after reading this. Please tell Anne that I love her and am praying for her. Hugs and prayers to you, too. My favorite time with Anne will always be stepping out of Capitol Arts Theatre and gasping and pointing for Martina McBride’s When God Fearing Women Get the Blues. Anne, we are immortalized on film! : )
By myla thomas — Aug 6, 2014 11:25am
To the fun loving and crazy Virginian…from the equally will and crazy Alabama girl. Much love an prayers for you, I’m not sure if you know how many lives you’ve touched over the years. To this day; we all have an “Anne” story to share, and it always makes me smile. You always could bring a smile to me…thanks for doing that!
By Dinah Isenberg — Aug 5, 2014 7:48pm
Anne was the best kindergarten teacher my son Josh Hines could have ask for, she has stayed in touch all his life he is 32 now. God bless you for being there and making a difference in so many children’s lives, we love you!
By Jim DeCesare — last edited Aug 5, 2014 5:57pm
Hi Anne and Mike! Anne, you’re in our thoughts and prayers. We Love You Both!!! Here’s a blast from the past and my favorite country music video. Lovin’ the Church lady in the yellow dress! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq1CuhcDj8Y
By keri gies davidson — Aug 5, 2014 5:45pm
May you find peace and comfort in your memories and love. I remember Anne’s outrageous Halloween and Spelling Bee outfits. Prayers to you both.
By Cathy, Alan, Jane Embry and Chris Palmer — Aug 5, 2014 3:45pm
Prayers from all the Palmer family. Anne has shown all of us that one person’s love for a community can change lives every day. May she feel that love pouring back her way each day. Please know that we, like so many others, are lifting your entire family up in prayer and are ready at a moment’s notice to provide any help we can.
By Pam Eisert — Aug 5, 2014 3:33pm
Prayers are continuing to be said for for you both Anne and Mike and your family. Please tell Anne that she has always been such an inspiration to me. The kindness and love that she shows to everyone she meets is a true gift from God that we all should aspire too. (so hope I got that right, I know what a grammar nazi Anne is. Lol). My heart is breaking for you both. I know you both have dozens of people who are willing to jump in and help at any given time, but please know that Glenn and I part those folks as well! Love you much, Pam
By Patty de Rohan — Aug 5, 2014 12:49pm
Dearest Anne and Mike, we love you both and you are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. Anne, you are my oldest friend – I am sure we were playing together even before Peg was born when we were toddlers. You, Margaret and Mike have always been family to us. Oakdale Street bonds are strong ones. Margaret was a second mother to us, and that makes you a sister too. Please know that you have always been dearly loved by the Price family and are one of us. Much love, Patty
By Elaine Smith — Aug 5, 2014 11:31am
Prayers are continuing to be said for Anne and Mike and your family. Please tell Anne that I love her and that she has been such an inspiration to me. My heart is breaking for you both. If y’all need anything at all, please do not hesitate to ask.
By Terry and Carla — last edited Aug 5, 2014 11:10am
Anne and Mike,
Our prayer is that you feel the love of God from so many who care deeply for you both. As you know already… He is always with you and provides the strength and understanding during life’s journey. Trust in him and know you are loved and so dear to us and many others. May God’s peace fill your hearts, mind and body is our prayer.
By Jane Cannon — Aug 5, 2014 8:26am
Mike. You and Anne are in our thoughts and prayers. I do think of youall often. I’m sure you know that you can call on any of your church family and we will be there to help in any way that we can. Love you both. Jane
By Jessica McCray Dorris — last edited Aug 5, 2014 8:12am
Hi Mrs. Grubbs (After all these years it still seems a little unnatural calling my Kindergarten teacher by her first name),
I am probably going to mirror a lot of what people have already said but you are truly an inspiration to our community. You are a strong woman that has touched the lives of many. I speak from experience. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I’m sending you good thoughts.
Love,
Jessica (McCray) Dorris
By beverly siegrist — Aug 5, 2014 8:01am
Dearest Anne, I lift you and Mike up in my prayers. You are my forever example of grace and strength.
By Debbie Hills — Aug 5, 2014 7:56am
I will be praying for you both and asking God to shower you with comfort, peace and grace. Love and caring thoughts to you both.
By Cheryl Allen — Aug 5, 2014 7:29am
Mike, thank you for sharing. I know it wasn’t easy to write this-just like the long years haven’t been easy. You and Anne are loved by so many people. Share our love with each other and know that our prayers will certainly continue! Take care!
By Jennifer Bryant — Aug 4, 2014 10:53pm
Thinking of you Anne and your sweet, sweet spirit. Praying for you and your loved ones.
By Jacqueline Seaton — Aug 4, 2014 9:51pm
Mine and Greg’s prayers are with you both.
By Voletta Havener — Aug 4, 2014 9:16pm
Dear Anne & Mike: My prayers are with you thru this difficult time. May God Bless you both.
Anne thanks for all you did for me at Comm. Ed. you kept me in line!! LOL!!
Love, (((Hugs))), & Prayers to you and your family
By Margaret Weeks — Aug 4, 2014 8:24pm
Hi, Anne and Mike. We are praying for peace & comfort for you both. Love, Peg & Chuck
By patsy sloan — Aug 4, 2014 8:16pm
Loving thoughts & prayers for both of you. May God’s grace envelop you as you enter the next phase of your journey.
By Linda McCray — Aug 4, 2014 7:30pm
My prayers and healing thoughts go out to you both, Anne and Mike. Anne has been and continues to be a friend and inspiration to so many! I have said this to you before Anne and it bears repeating – I could not have picked a better kindergarden teacher for our Jessica if I had ordered out of a catalog! Your love , caring and patience with all your students gave such comfort and ease to their progress in school and life.I am forever grateful to you Anne
I pray for your comfort and send you my admiration and affection always. I also pray for Mike as this journey continues. May Gods grace and love surround you both.
By Melody Ossello — Aug 4, 2014 6:17pm
Sending prayers and love to you both! You have been one of life’s greatest blessings for my whole family. Thankful for you and love you both so much!
By Troy Warren — Aug 4, 2014 6:13pm
Prayers and Love for you and Mike.
By B.Kaye Beckner — Aug 4, 2014 5:59pm
My prayers for you both continue, that God will give you peace and comfort and joy in your days. Please know that you have been faithful witnesses to the goodness and love of The Lord through your struggles. To this day, some 20 years later, Meredith recalls with fondness her after school days at McNeill with “Miss Anne”.
Much love and blessings,
B.Kaye
By Alecia Marcum — Aug 4, 2014 5:47pm
Praying for Anne and you as well Mike. Sending a great big hug your way. Praying for comfort and peace for you both. Love you both so much. Please let me know if I can do anything to help you at all.
By Barbara DeFebbo — Aug 4, 2014 3:40pm
Anne….Kevin and I lift you up in prayer dailey. All we can say is we are inspired by both you and Mike for your strenght and witness to those who know you. Lord Bless. K & B
By cheryl beckley — Aug 4, 2014 3:24pm
Please tell Ann that she is loved and had always been a blessing to her family, friends and students. You both
are in our thoughts and prayers.
By Donna Workman — Aug 4, 2014 3:19pm
Anne has such strength of spirit and I will pray for that to continue for both of you. You all have made a difficult walk seem like a beautiful journey of love and faith. I pray that everyday that you have will still be filled with the peace and devotion that has sustained you thus far. Words escape me as I search for a comforting word. You are both loved by many May Gods love surround you
By Tina Jennings — Aug 4, 2014 3:03pm
I sit all day at work at my desk and look at the angel Anne gave me and now I am sending an angel back to her. Mike please let her know that I, along with many others here at WBKO, are sending her all the prayers and hugs we can. I miss our gab sessions at events and miss her great sass and laugh. I’m so sorry to hear about the latest events but I am sure she still has her great whit about her and that is why I love her!
By Leslie Lloyd — Aug 4, 2014 3:01pm
Prayers and love headed your way
By Jane Townsend — Aug 4, 2014 2:24pm
My prayers for all of you……so sorry to hear that Anne is so ill. I will continue to pray during this very hard time. Thinking of you…..Jane Chittum Townsend
By Christina Robertson-Theis — Aug 4, 2014 2:17pm
Tell Anne I love her and I am sending all my love and positive energy your way. Peace to you both in this difficult time. The ripples of Anne’s actions will go on for generations. Thank you for being a strong, beautiful friend, Anne.
By Kathy Yarmey — Aug 4, 2014 2:04pm
Mike,
We have not met and I have mentioned this to Anne on Facebook before, but wanted to say it again. I moved to Martinsville in 8th grade into a group of people that had been in school together since kindergarten and clicks were are hard and fast. Anne was one of only a few people that befriended me. She may not remember but I will never forget what a great friend she was. Please tell her thank you for me and I will keep her in my prayers.
By Janie Hurt — Aug 4, 2014 1:55pm
Mike, I have been praying for you and Anne daily and am so sorry to hear about her downward spiral. Please know I will continue to pray and will be glad to do anything I can for either of you.
By Doug Wilcox — Aug 4, 2014 1:19pm
I am continuing to keep you and Mike in my prayers, I cherish our long time friendship and am so thankful that through FB we were able to reconnect over the past few years, We all love you and pray for comfort for you. Sending lots pf HUGS,
By Marjorie Donnelly — Aug 4, 2014 1:14pm
Anne, Please know that your Thomas Heights buddies Sharon and Marjorie Richmond are both thinking of you and Mike and holding you close in our prayers. Sharon moved from Rehoboth Beach, DE to Greensboro, NC (where I live) in June after retiring from running her Bed and Breakfast. She is adjusting to this big life transition. Her birthday is tomorrow. Her daughter Catherine is coming this week to celebrate. Sending our love to you today, Marjorie
By Susie Sheffield — Aug 4, 2014 1:00pm
Anne, I so admire you, for your strength and faith . There is so much I’d love to say to you, but this is so very hard for me, so I will just leave it with an I love you so very , very much. Your friendship has meant a lot to me ! Mike PLEASE give her a hug and kiss from me. I will continue to keep you both and the family in my thought and prayers ! Much Love, Susie
By David Theis — Aug 4, 2014 12:51pm
Mike, I will make sure that our Kiwanis friends understand this and know to keep you and Anne in the forefront of their thoughts and prayers. Please tell her I love her and am so proud of her!
By Janet Grider — Aug 4, 2014 12:39pm
No words can express how sorry I am or how much I think of both of you! Praying for and thinking of you!
By Pat Scott — Aug 4, 2014 12:37pm
Anne and Mike…keeping both of you in prayer. God be with you. Love to you both.
By Betsy (Hirst) Sheppard — Aug 4, 2014 11:25am
Sending love and prayers to all. XOXO
By Connie Allen — Aug 4, 2014 11:22am
Many prayers, much love and hugs sent to you both.
By Marta Woosley — Aug 4, 2014 11:14am
Mike, you and Anne are in my prayers!!! If you need anything just let me know. Love you both!!
By Floyda Sullivan — Aug 4, 2014 11:10am
Mike I hate to hear this. She told me some of it last week but did not admit how bad she really is. Please please tell her I love her. She has been such a strong person through all of this. I pray that God will give you the strength to face the future and that he will not let her suffer for long. God bless both of you!
By Debbie Pryor — Aug 4, 2014 11:04am
Oh, Anne, I am so sorry. I wish I could be your hospice. If there is ANYTHING I can do for you and Mike, please let me know. My heart is so heavy I cannot even explain. My prayers are with you and Mike’s family. I love you, Anne, and I pray for comfort. Our journeys together in school will forever be in my heart. Hugs to you both.
By Liz Kane — Aug 4, 2014 10:48am
I am so sorry to hear this. I will continue to pray for her (and you). She is such a brave, strong woman. May Gid bless her and ease her suffering.
By Lucena Davis — Aug 4, 2014 10:42am
Anne and Mike,
You both are such very special people. Your friendships mean so much to me and my family. When I was with Brent in North Carolina last June, and when he was in Bowling Green for July 4 weekend, he asked about Anne and wanted her to know that she is special and he thinks about her. Ashleigh is always asking about Anne, Anne is such an inspiration to her! Praying for you both, your always in my heart.
Much love.
By Miliska Knauft — Aug 4, 2014 10:37am
Greetings, Mike and Anne!
The Lord is our hiding place, where we can go to receive strength to carry on. Through grace we have been saved. Place you trust in the Lord and he will remove all worries and fears. Please know that we continue to pray for both of you. Also know that we are here to help. Thoughts of “love” and “hugs” go out to you today and always!!!
Terry and Miliska
By Jerry wallace — Aug 4, 2014 10:32am
You both in our thoughts and prayers.
Anne is on Holy Spirit prayer list. Just tell her we love you both. Peace
By Amanda Peltz — Aug 4, 2014 10:01am
Anne, I love you so much. I told our infamous bus story just this past weekend to a new friend! Thinking about you often and praying for your peace and comfort. Mike, praying for you as well. Please let me know if you need anything. The Peltz’s are ready and willing to help you in any way we can.
Giant Hugs,
Amanda
By Ted Davis — Aug 4, 2014 9:51am
Anne, Mike, Linda and I love the two of you so much and lift you both up in paryer constantly. In Hebrews it is written that “Faith is the Substance of things hoped for, the Evidence of things not seen.” There is a Heaven, and there is One God which I know that y’all have faith in….Ted & Linda
By Mary Lou Kirby — Aug 4, 2014 9:43am
Anne, Hugs and love. Mike gives great hugs, I know! Prayers for your comfort as you make your transition. Remember always, you have hundreds if not thousands of friends and loved ones surrounding you in spirit. You have your devoted husband Mike who I pray for also. You have fought the good fight, Anne. May you feel peace and love surround you. My heart holds you forever.
By Janette Boehman — Aug 4, 2014 9:40am
My prayers are being lifted up to give Ms. Anne the strength and peace to deal with what is to come. She is loved by many and will be in many thoughts and prayers. I’m here if there is anything I can help with.
By John Peters — Aug 4, 2014 9:16am
Anne, we love you girl. Get a hug from Mike from us. Our prayers are with you both.
John & Lynne
By Angela Wright — Aug 4, 2014 9:16am
Mike and Anne, I’ve been thinking about you and praying. Anne’s absence on Facebook has worried me. I’m sorry to get this update but she has fought a good fight. Praying harder now. Love to you both.
By Rhonda Bartley — Aug 4, 2014 9:16am
Mike, you have been such a rock, such a comfort for Anne and you are a wonderful husband. Anne is fortunate to have you in her life, as you are so blessed to have her. You have been on my mind and I want you to know that I have been praying for you both. I have sent Annie a message and an email early last week and will get one off to her later today to “check in”. She had told me Debbie was coming and I know that will be good for you both. May God’s grace, love and peace be upon you, my dear friends. I love you both. Please do not hesitate to call me at any time if you find a need.
By Laura Holderfield — Aug 4, 2014 9:13am
Anne, You’re such an inspiration to all who know you. And you’ve made such a positive impact on our community. Your sweet smile, optimistic attitude, openness to help others… a true jewel. Mike and Anne, My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always. XOXO
By Jessica Warren — Aug 4, 2014 9:13am
Mike- Please give Anne a hug for me. Praying for you both.
By Dee Mcneily — Aug 4, 2014 8:59am
I’m heartbroken for you, Mike. I’ve known Anne for such a short time but admire and love her spirit!! Peace and comfort to you both. Dee McNeily
By Karen Helms Manley — Aug 4, 2014 8:58am
Mike
You all are in my prayers. Please tell Anne hello for me & I love her!
By anne lewis — Aug 4, 2014 8:58am
Sending prayers and much love to you both. You two are amazing people….an inspiration to us all. Xoxo. Anne
By Lindsey McClain — Aug 4, 2014 8:55am
Prayers for comfort and peace for you both. Love you, Anne!
By MaryLou Davis — Aug 4, 2014 8:52am
Mike, I know that this was a difficult message for you to post and it was difficult to read it as well. You have been so good to Anne and I thank you for your love and care. You and Anne are in my prayers and I especially pray that our loving God will be merciful in her transition to her eternal home.
Love to all,
Mary Lou Atkins Davis
(a Martinsville friend)
By Beth Bishop — Aug 4, 2014 8:45am
Anne and Mike, you have walked many mountains and valleys together, hand-in-hand as a team. All the while, your friends and loved ones have been around you, even when you couldn’t see us. Please know we are all praying for you both, and remember the good times we’ve had together. RC and APhi just wouldn’t have been the same without you, Anne. I will always treasure our friendship and sisterhood.
Mike, my prayers will expand to cover your relatives too, who are undergoing their own struggles and trials with these vicious diseases. May God and your family/friends assist you as you travel this long road.
All my love! Beth (not the oldest, I’m thinking) in Baltimore
By Chuck and Diana Neely — Aug 4, 2014 8:30am
Anne & Mike;
You’re both constantly in our thoughts and daily in our prayers.
Love you both,
By Brenda Lemons — Aug 4, 2014 8:25am
For the past 2 weeks, I have strongly felt in my heart and soul that this was what was taking place. I have not been able to get you off of my mind, sweet Anne. I know that it was God’s signal to pray for you more than ever before. You are an amazing woman who has played an important role in my and my son’s life. I thank you for your many gifts that have made such a difference in the lives of so many people. You hold on tight to the happy times we had on the playground at dear ole Patrick Henry Elementary. For those memories of friendship for 50+ years, I am so grateful to God. Lots of huge, tight hugs to you and to Mike, who I have never met, but who has to be an amazing man to have caught a catch like you. I love you, dear, dear friend.
By Debbie Robb — Aug 4, 2014 8:24am
Mike, continuing to pray for you and Anne. She is such an inspiration to so many in our community and I hope she realizes just how many lives she has touched over the years. If I can provide some relief to come stay with Anne, bring food, run errands, wash clothes….just let me know. Will be glad to help however needed. Love you both.
By Mary Scantland — Aug 4, 2014 8:22am
Prayers are being said for both of you. I am praying for peace and strength for you. May you be blessed beyond measure.
By Jean Secrest — Aug 4, 2014 8:20am
Praying right now! God bless you both. I wish there were words to say right now but I don’t know what they are. Anne you are loved by all and you are the strongest, bravest, and most giving person that I know. Mike you are right there with Anne in your strength, bravery, and giving heart. As I type through my tears, I hope my grammar and punctuation both are hanging in there but right now that doesn’t seem too important.
Love and prayers for both of you.
By Amy DeCesare — Aug 4, 2014 8:04am
Praying for you both. Please tell Anne we love her. Thank you for the update.