What You Should Know...

Hi All...
My name is Cathy Squires. JJ has been one of my dearest friends since we both found ourselves transplanted here to Virginia. She is my rockin' concert buddy, my Girl's Night Out Coordinator, all around good time planner as well as my dear friend. From time to time I will update the blog for Jamie with basics when she needs a break and she will come back to add her beautiful amazing writer touches to it! Thanks for hanging out and loving and caring for her!

Things to remember when visiting Jamie Jensen

Please remember that Jamie is beginning Chemotherapy, her health and well being are of the utmost importance. Jamie loves to have visitors! Please consider calling rather than just dropping by. She will have family in town often, they may be in and out with Doctors appointments, she may be resting or they may just need family time. We all have the best intentions but need to remember to be considerate.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO KEEP YOUR SNIFFLES YOUR SNIFFLES!
Jamie's immune system will be highly sensitive. There will be a sanitizing station in the foyer as soon as you enter. It cannot be stressed enough how important it is that you take the moment to utilize what is available to be germ free upon entering the home. Even if you think it's just a minor thing such as allergies, or maybe you've been in contact with someone else who has been sick. Wait to come by until all is well.

When visiting, always be positive no matter the topic of discussion. Even the slightest Debbie Downer moment can change one's mindset. Positivity is crucial to not only Jamie's but her family's well being. Don't come in if you can't be POSITIVE! Again this goes to your health as well as attitude. Keep communication open but be a good listener. The best medicine..verbalize your love and support for them. Be creative, write it, say it, or show it by your actions.

How Can I help?
Flowers are not the best. Patient's immune systems may be compromised and living plants, flowers and Spanish moss are not allowed. Look for alternative ways to say you care.

Losing hair is a hard thing...no doubt about it! Consider having a hat party and inviting everyone to wear a hat, party hardy, and leave the hat for her. Hats should be practical as well as fun!

Keeping in touch is important. Send cards, notes, banners, kids drawings, or any message of hope to show you care. Receiving "get well" cards with the message "while you recover" can be very important to her healing.

Form a "Relay for Life" team. This can show great team support while giving Jamie something fun to look forward to!

Remember the family with food and treats.

Gift certificates to area fast food/restaurants surrounding her Chemotherapy (Lake Manassas in Gainesville) or hospital (Prince William) are very helpful.

Pretty new P.J.'s with front opening for IV access is essential. Throw in a pair of fuzzy slippers for added fun!

Themed gift boxes or baskets for the family are a great idea. For example: a movie basket filled with videos, video coupons, candy, popcorn, etc. is always fun.

Arrange to help with laundry and housecleaning. Her job right now is to heal, not be overwhelmed by day-to-day chores.

Short visits can take the family's mind off of stress. Share laughs and make wonderful memories, just remember to call first.

Stay connected. Say "I'm here and I care" is better than nothing at all.

This Wednesday July 13th
The Jensen's church family as well as all friends and loved ones are invited to participate in a fasting. Please keep this good family in your prayers that the medical treatments may be successful and that through faith, fasting, prayer and through the power of the priesthood her body may be made whole and well. Please pray for the comfort and sustaining strength of Jamie as well as her family as they endure this process.

With Love,
Cathy