James Jasek Update

[Mimi Jasek]

So, it has been a while. We saw some of you at Orion Knox’s memorial. James has remained stable in his conditions, and at times his mental acuity is a bit better the longer he is on the monthly shots with Texas Oncology for his Insulinoma. I take what I can get when I can get it. His physicality and mental health will probably continue to deteriorate, but I do all I can to slow that progression and keep him as happy as possible - or content in his reality. He will be 84 in June.

For me, the stress of these last years has harmed my health, but I manage. Except for a shower aide once a week, I am still his 24/7-365 caregiver. Our house is a mess, but bills are paid and doctors seen! We live a very small, quiet, solitary life. Not many care to come around due to his condition, including relatives. None are real caregivers, and his condition makes others aware of their mortality I feel. He can be difficult. Everyone else has lives to live!

My main reason for updating is us having achieved a milestone I long wanted, although I had wished James would be healthy and mentally and more physically present. By between 6-6:30 tonight, we will have been officially married for 50 years - half a century! I know there are others among our community who have achieved this, but perhaps with not as many challenges?!

I remember one Spring Convention where, upon our arrival, the vibe was one of disbelief! Lol Someone had spread a rumor we were divorced, and a number of the members our age told me they figured I had left him! Oh ye of little faith! We had a blast, for I decided to act his mistress for the weekend to play along! We had lots of private laughs over that incident.

Long term relationships are not easy, especially if the couple remains faithful to one another. Physical, financial, mental, and just plain human circumstances cause many problems, sometimes insurmountable. For me, I stood on the two things that still get me through each day - Love and Faith ❤️🙏

I included a picture of the promise ring James got me before my real engagement ring. Various jobs have prevented me from wearing my regular ring, and I never wore jewelry caving. This is what I have worn for years when I wear jewelry, for it embodies what I am. Blessings, health, and joy to you all. Every minute we get now is the icing on the cake 🥰

[Jim Kennedy]

Mimi, you are a rock. Fifty years is something to celebrate! I know it’s not easy. Keep on being you, and hopefully we will see both of you again one day.

Jim

Mobile email from my iPhone

> On Mar 29, 2025, at 5:42 PM, Mimi Jasek <mjc...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> So, it has been a while. We saw some of you at Orion Knox’s memorial. James has remained stable in his conditions, and at times his mental acuity is a bit better the longer he is on the monthly shots with Texas Oncology for his Insulinoma. I take what I can get when I can get it. His physicality and mental health will probably continue to deteriorate, but I do all I can to slow that progression and keep him as happy as possible - or content in his reality. He will be 84 in June.

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[Ron Fieseler]

Thank you Mimi for the update on Jim!  It is nice to know that you two are still hanging in there and...congratulations on hitting the 50 year milestone!!!

You both are awesome friends and will always have a place in old time caver minds and hearts.  We miss seeing y'all but understand the health care needs and situations  that make traveling a near impossibility.  Please continue to stay in touch. Best wishes and lots of love to the two of you.  Ron Fieseler

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[Mimi Jasek]

George, Mike, Jim, Ron,

I miss our caver community dearly, but our lives are what they are! Trying to visit friends when you live far away is so difficult. We were always independent up here in Waco, but harder now.

Mike, let me know! He likes Ninfa’s, and I was more successful recently than in years when I took him there weeks ago! Almost caused a scene but he thought I was leaving him instead of just getting up to get more napkins!! Only time we have successfully eaten in a restaurant in 2-3years!!

I will update at least once a year I imagine. He will remember things days after I ask him something, and many times before we get up in the morning! Who knows how his mind disconnect works!

George, as much as y’all love where you are, perhaps one day y’all can come home to Texas. Believe me, having a support community of friends around you as you age is worth everything ❤️ Each time you come to a Bexar Grotto meeting I consider driving down, but we can’t easily spend the night, and too far and tiring for this older lady to drive late at night!! When he gets too tired, it is Katy bar the door getting him to bed!

Love to all,

Mimi 

PS. I am no saint! I have shed buckets of tears, railed at him, God, the universe whatever, and constantly ask for strength and grace to care for him each day! This is not a way for most, but I constantly remind myself what he has lost that he loved! So very much 😢💔

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On Mar 29, 2025, at 9:45 PM, Ron Fieseler <ronfi...@gmail.com> wrote:



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[Mio Kitano]

Thank you Mimi for sharing such a beautiful story. We have not met but am a caver from San Antonio. Sounds like the monthly octreotide/lanreotide injection is keeping his symptoms at bay. Has he tried a medication called Diazoxide or therapy called PRRT?    

Mio

On Sat, Mar 29, 2025 at 5:42 PM Mimi Jasek <mjc...@gmail.com> wrote: