Another day.....another energized Linda
It's to the point where she is "close" to normal..took a walk today....bouncing around the house...etc..etc,....
It is a "mind trap" ...as we have an awareness that another chemo session is Friday.....AND with good rest, a good spirit, a good diet, a good husband...she should weather the next round.....
Linda found out today that she is unable to schedule an appointment with the top lung cancer oncologist at OHSU (Oregon Health Sciences University) in Portland until the middle of April..that will be when he begins taking appointments....This is the second opinion her medical oncologist and Linda have pointed to.....
Facebook.....a disease consuming one's time...but a lot of fun communicating with long lost friends and all....worth the trip....Linda and Dave are under "Dave Wood"...use "University of Idaho, Moscow Idaho" under "a specific network".
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Tuesday.....March 17th...2009
She's still back (again)!
Linda had a good day again today...good...good....good.
We don't have much going this week....resting Linda up for Friday...which is her big day.....
We would like to repeat again that what is best for Linda in her "Journey" is love and support....no need for recommending any alternative remedies or whatever....just love and support. Linda is scheduling a visit to OHSU in Portland with her oncologist's support...for a second opinion.....she wants to see the results of the scan which will be done in 3 and a half weeks so everyone will know where she stands. She continues to have great faith in her doctors and the regimen she is on....and she knows she is up against a tough one.....and her spirit and willingness to fight is high. Bend is the center for all the best cancer treatments for all of the state east of the mountains. It seems the lifestyle and outdoors draws the best of the best to Central Oregon in terms of doctors, etc.
Linda had a good day again today...good...good....good.
We don't have much going this week....resting Linda up for Friday...which is her big day.....
We would like to repeat again that what is best for Linda in her "Journey" is love and support....no need for recommending any alternative remedies or whatever....just love and support. Linda is scheduling a visit to OHSU in Portland with her oncologist's support...for a second opinion.....she wants to see the results of the scan which will be done in 3 and a half weeks so everyone will know where she stands. She continues to have great faith in her doctors and the regimen she is on....and she knows she is up against a tough one.....and her spirit and willingness to fight is high. Bend is the center for all the best cancer treatments for all of the state east of the mountains. It seems the lifestyle and outdoors draws the best of the best to Central Oregon in terms of doctors, etc.
What else can you do....urge a smoker to quit....the risks are too great and as Linda can attest to, getting lung cancer isn't much fun....
Monday, March 16, 2009
Monday....March 16th...2009
Linda had another good day today...so what was the deal the other night.....anyway, we'll take it any way we can....
We came home today after visiting Linda's sister Karen and husband Ray....and ran into some big snows in the pass...which we navigated quite well....
Now for a few days of quiet before the big chemo session on Friday which will be day 1 of the Third three week cycle.sorry I must leave the blog now to address my handful of new friends on Facebook...it is the latest craze...and we are loving it as we get to contact folks we haven't seen in years and those who are separated from us by distance and circumstance.
Linda also is appreciative of the second mass amount of cards awaiting her when she got home today....she is doing well...and whether it is a card, a comment on the Blog or whatever, it does add to her persistence and commitment to life....so thank you all....
ps..no germ pics tonight....
We came home today after visiting Linda's sister Karen and husband Ray....and ran into some big snows in the pass...which we navigated quite well....
Now for a few days of quiet before the big chemo session on Friday which will be day 1 of the Third three week cycle.sorry I must leave the blog now to address my handful of new friends on Facebook...it is the latest craze...and we are loving it as we get to contact folks we haven't seen in years and those who are separated from us by distance and circumstance.
Linda also is appreciative of the second mass amount of cards awaiting her when she got home today....she is doing well...and whether it is a card, a comment on the Blog or whatever, it does add to her persistence and commitment to life....so thank you all....
ps..no germ pics tonight....
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Sunday....March 15th...2009
Much better day today....Linda felt great all day today, even with a short nap. Yesterday was a complete mystery...including the situation with the temp rising....and fears around having to go to the emergency room. A rise in temperature in an individual with a low immune system can be signs of serious infection which can give rise to a life threatening situation....Linda had reached the degree (100.5 degrees) we had been warned about for two years...and then to have it go back down....eventually to normal within two hours was most mysterious.
And then to feel great today..go figure!
We had a nice day with family..even visiting the sick son Jim and daughter in law Jenn from afar. Daughter Wendy and son in law Chris and granddaughter Taigen went back to Seattle this afternoon. Son Jeff left for Bend early am as he had to work today. So we are going home tomorrow as we have worn out our welcome with daughter Janine and with the "sickies" being sick and all.
Tonight we had a delightful dinner with Linda's friend and former classmate Claudia. She also surprised Linda by bringing Marilyn, who was also a classmate of Linda's. We had good time sharing stories and giving the restaurant folks a hard time...so much so, it seemed they were sad to see us go..so we must have been a hit. Linda feels so supported to have friends reappear after so many years and be so behind her.
The bad news......we forgot to take pictures (again).......Claudia escapes (again).....
Finally...have you tried "Facebook"?....we avoided it so long but now it is a site where we can connect with friends/folks/acquaintances we haven't seen...and to share....it is a lot of fun....and it can consume a lot of time...so good news and bad news....
And then to feel great today..go figure!
We had a nice day with family..even visiting the sick son Jim and daughter in law Jenn from afar. Daughter Wendy and son in law Chris and granddaughter Taigen went back to Seattle this afternoon. Son Jeff left for Bend early am as he had to work today. So we are going home tomorrow as we have worn out our welcome with daughter Janine and with the "sickies" being sick and all.
Tonight we had a delightful dinner with Linda's friend and former classmate Claudia. She also surprised Linda by bringing Marilyn, who was also a classmate of Linda's. We had good time sharing stories and giving the restaurant folks a hard time...so much so, it seemed they were sad to see us go..so we must have been a hit. Linda feels so supported to have friends reappear after so many years and be so behind her.
The bad news......we forgot to take pictures (again).......Claudia escapes (again).....
Finally...have you tried "Facebook"?....we avoided it so long but now it is a site where we can connect with friends/folks/acquaintances we haven't seen...and to share....it is a lot of fun....and it can consume a lot of time...so good news and bad news....
.
ps...some of the possible germs Linda was up against.....
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Saturday....March 14th...2009
Let's see,
Jim and Jenn were sick so they didn't come over for Linda's birthday...actually it was to be at their house....and it was Jim's birthday celebration too. We can't take a chance with Linda catching something and also they didn't feel up to anything.
Wendy and Chris and grand daughter Taigen came from Seattle and Jeff came from Bend.....so we had pizza and cake at Janine's house....
Linda provided a bit of a scare...she always comes up with something new...the doctors have warned us since this all started that if Linda has a temperature of 100.5 degrees to call immediately...as most likely an infection is taking place and her immune system is so low, the infection can spread like wild fire and be very serious with hospitalization required immediately. So Linda starts sweating a bit and feels feverish.....and her temperature was 100.6. .....a call to the oncology doctor was made immediately....he said if it got to 101, head to the hospital......the good news is it didn't get any higher and then dropped to 99.6...it is now back up to 100.0 so we are monitoring.
Linda also called him back as she has been bleeding from the nose all week and today the flow increased significantly...he said it is most likely due to the chemo or the fact that her platelets are down...if the flow increased...off to the emergency room....I had her blow her nose not quite so forcefully and it seems to have not increased....
So a different day...but Linda had a pretty good one anyway...not as energetic as yesterday but we take them as they come...
Jim and Jenn were sick so they didn't come over for Linda's birthday...actually it was to be at their house....and it was Jim's birthday celebration too. We can't take a chance with Linda catching something and also they didn't feel up to anything.
Wendy and Chris and grand daughter Taigen came from Seattle and Jeff came from Bend.....so we had pizza and cake at Janine's house....
Linda provided a bit of a scare...she always comes up with something new...the doctors have warned us since this all started that if Linda has a temperature of 100.5 degrees to call immediately...as most likely an infection is taking place and her immune system is so low, the infection can spread like wild fire and be very serious with hospitalization required immediately. So Linda starts sweating a bit and feels feverish.....and her temperature was 100.6. .....a call to the oncology doctor was made immediately....he said if it got to 101, head to the hospital......the good news is it didn't get any higher and then dropped to 99.6...it is now back up to 100.0 so we are monitoring.
Linda also called him back as she has been bleeding from the nose all week and today the flow increased significantly...he said it is most likely due to the chemo or the fact that her platelets are down...if the flow increased...off to the emergency room....I had her blow her nose not quite so forcefully and it seems to have not increased....
So a different day...but Linda had a pretty good one anyway...not as energetic as yesterday but we take them as they come...
Friday, March 13, 2009
Friday....March 13th....2009
I felt compelled to write the blog today, so I could thank you all for the best wishes, cards, and gifts. I've never been given so much attention on my birthday in all my 63 years ( and I was just looking at pictures from my 7th birthday party the other day....you looked so cute Ruth Ann)
I really felt well today......maybe because it's my Friday off from chemo, but for whatever reason, I'll take it. I forgot to bring my sleeping pills with me, but I still had a good night's sleep and slept in this morning, as I knew I would get no nap today. Dave and I went to a funeral today with my good friend, Claudia, for the mother of an old friend of mine from teenage years. I think he was shocked to see me, as we haven't seen each other in at least 30 years. His mom was my 4-H leader and lived to just a few months short of 90.
I didn't get to visit with son Jim today ( we share this birthday) as he was sick. I couldn't believe he could get sick on one of our few birthdays of being in the same state (I'm usually in Florida in March). I just have to be careful not to be around any sick people right now, so it's a bummer.
Well, thank you again so much for making this birthday special. You are all special to me!
Love and gratitude..........Linda
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Linda at her 60th birthday party! (when she sees this, I've had it.......)
.
I really felt well today......maybe because it's my Friday off from chemo, but for whatever reason, I'll take it. I forgot to bring my sleeping pills with me, but I still had a good night's sleep and slept in this morning, as I knew I would get no nap today. Dave and I went to a funeral today with my good friend, Claudia, for the mother of an old friend of mine from teenage years. I think he was shocked to see me, as we haven't seen each other in at least 30 years. His mom was my 4-H leader and lived to just a few months short of 90.
I didn't get to visit with son Jim today ( we share this birthday) as he was sick. I couldn't believe he could get sick on one of our few birthdays of being in the same state (I'm usually in Florida in March). I just have to be careful not to be around any sick people right now, so it's a bummer.
Well, thank you again so much for making this birthday special. You are all special to me!
Love and gratitude..........Linda
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Linda at her 60th birthday party! (when she sees this, I've had it.......)
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Thursday, March 12, 2009
Thursday....March 12th....2009
Not the best of days..and it's not about Linda....
We went to Bend early this am (first problem..the "early") and got Linda her shot and Reiki. Linda made two blankets for the infusion center which were well received and a blanket for her primary nurse who is due in May....and she was very touched......
Then back home..load the RV and head to Portland....NOPE....RV having a problem with the jacks again...we couldn't get them fixed so no RV.....April looks like a good time to get it fixed and then across the mountains.....so unload.....load the car and off we went.....end of story?...NOPE...got up the pass and the road was blocked by a truck and trailer crash.....and a leaking propane tank as a result...major problem...gotta get Hazmet or whatever they are called to secure the scene, etc. etc.
3 hours later we are on our way....
We have made it...slowing down after a quirky day...better day tomorrow....because it's Miss Linda's 43rd birthday! Flowers below sent by brother Darron and sister in law La Velle...the good news is we were late leaving....see above ....and the flowers arrived as we were getting ready to go.
We went to Bend early this am (first problem..the "early") and got Linda her shot and Reiki. Linda made two blankets for the infusion center which were well received and a blanket for her primary nurse who is due in May....and she was very touched......
Then back home..load the RV and head to Portland....NOPE....RV having a problem with the jacks again...we couldn't get them fixed so no RV.....April looks like a good time to get it fixed and then across the mountains.....so unload.....load the car and off we went.....end of story?...NOPE...got up the pass and the road was blocked by a truck and trailer crash.....and a leaking propane tank as a result...major problem...gotta get Hazmet or whatever they are called to secure the scene, etc. etc.
3 hours later we are on our way....
.
We have made it...slowing down after a quirky day...better day tomorrow....because it's Miss Linda's 43rd birthday! Flowers below sent by brother Darron and sister in law La Velle...the good news is we were late leaving....see above ....and the flowers arrived as we were getting ready to go.
.
ps..we love it when someone connects their Blog..so if you have one, please do sign under your name so we can see what you are up to too!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Wednesday....March 11th....2009
I was drawn to the words to the song included in the comments from yesterday....I have many words saved from songs that caught my interest. In the "old days" I was unable or more correctly, didn't listen to words in songs....I listened to the instruments or tune only...One day I decided that songs had meaning and the words in the songs were meant to be pondered.....
Any way after that and reviewing many songs in my computer files, I came upon Linda's Nature Paragraph....so I bagged the music stuff and focused on her statement. I don't know if I've shared it before, but even if I have, it's worth looking at again. The object of the paragraph is be drawn to something in nature and then write about what one sees. Then convert it to "I" and magic happens.
Look at the following and see if you agree. Maybe it can be set to music?
Linda Wood
I am a flower…
I come in many colors and facets…
I stand up tall and brave the elements…
Occasionally I close my petals in…
When the sun comes back out…
I open up again…
The universe gives me nourishment…
And I provide its beauty…
Linda and I were talking this morning about her "life contract" she adopted many many years ago. She said this morning, it is really now when she understood what "courage" meant to her and why it is in her contract...an amazing discovery by an amazing woman.
Linda Wood
I am an open, powerful and courageous woman
Any way after that and reviewing many songs in my computer files, I came upon Linda's Nature Paragraph....so I bagged the music stuff and focused on her statement. I don't know if I've shared it before, but even if I have, it's worth looking at again. The object of the paragraph is be drawn to something in nature and then write about what one sees. Then convert it to "I" and magic happens.
Look at the following and see if you agree. Maybe it can be set to music?
Linda Wood
I am a flower…
I come in many colors and facets…
I stand up tall and brave the elements…
Occasionally I close my petals in…
When the sun comes back out…
I open up again…
The universe gives me nourishment…
And I provide its beauty…
Linda and I were talking this morning about her "life contract" she adopted many many years ago. She said this morning, it is really now when she understood what "courage" meant to her and why it is in her contract...an amazing discovery by an amazing woman.
Linda Wood
I am an open, powerful and courageous woman
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Tuesday...March 10th...2009
Great night tonight.....
Linda, of course, got up this morning and was like a "busy bee" straightening up this and that and now is doing coverups for the infusion center.....slow this lady down! We had appointments in town and the Defeat Cancer dinner tonight,so no nap for her today......and late this afternoon the lack of rest started to show....and then...the dinner was so inspiring, she got a second wind. She has agreed though to be less energetic in the morning when she has a schedule of events later in the day.....
The dinner tonight was great..many suggestions and ideas that fit right into where we are at. By the way, for more information on the Defeat Cancer program, sponsored by the Lance Armstrong foundation (Livestrong) go to http://www.defeatcancer.info/. An amazing program led by an amazing group of folks.
.
The guest speaker was a local psychologist, whose program is "One Can Outrun Depression and Fear: Lessons For Cancer Survivorship". Basically he has found that in the treatment of depression and anxiety that exercise is the most effective solution, above medication, and medication and exercise. He talked about how exercise gets in the way of frustration, irritability and anger. What I got was, at the first sign of anxiety (in my case), get active....get an activity involving exercise going. He also said the exercise must be one you like...if one doesn't like a particular exercise, there is less or no commitment to it...and there are so many forms of exercise. Look for anything that works!
So now, we are committed to rate our well being at the beginning of each day and to get active as a way of creating a state of well being. Wasn't it the song "Man In the Mirror" by Michael Jackson that said "Make a Change"? Anyway, we get it....a great evening to empower us to be active and exercise to create a state of well being. We are glad we went.
Linda, of course, got up this morning and was like a "busy bee" straightening up this and that and now is doing coverups for the infusion center.....slow this lady down! We had appointments in town and the Defeat Cancer dinner tonight,so no nap for her today......and late this afternoon the lack of rest started to show....and then...the dinner was so inspiring, she got a second wind. She has agreed though to be less energetic in the morning when she has a schedule of events later in the day.....
The dinner tonight was great..many suggestions and ideas that fit right into where we are at. By the way, for more information on the Defeat Cancer program, sponsored by the Lance Armstrong foundation (Livestrong) go to http://www.defeatcancer.info/. An amazing program led by an amazing group of folks.
.
The guest speaker was a local psychologist, whose program is "One Can Outrun Depression and Fear: Lessons For Cancer Survivorship". Basically he has found that in the treatment of depression and anxiety that exercise is the most effective solution, above medication, and medication and exercise. He talked about how exercise gets in the way of frustration, irritability and anger. What I got was, at the first sign of anxiety (in my case), get active....get an activity involving exercise going. He also said the exercise must be one you like...if one doesn't like a particular exercise, there is less or no commitment to it...and there are so many forms of exercise. Look for anything that works!
So now, we are committed to rate our well being at the beginning of each day and to get active as a way of creating a state of well being. Wasn't it the song "Man In the Mirror" by Michael Jackson that said "Make a Change"? Anyway, we get it....a great evening to empower us to be active and exercise to create a state of well being. We are glad we went.
.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Monday....March 9th...2009
Quiet day today.....started out sunny and cold..turned to snow...snow and snow and cold....
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Linda had a quiet day....we continue to dig to the bottom of the garage selling all that we don't need or use...made more "bucks" today...love that Craig's list!
Tomorrow we have lunch with son Jeff...then on to the monthly "DEFEAT" (Diet, Exercise, Family,Education, Attitude, Thriving) dinner sponsored by the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LIVESTRONG). Mike Connor, Bend Psychologist will speak about depression and fear around cancer...lessons for cancer survivorship.
Wednesday is another day in the garage...and Thursday we head to Portland for Linda's Birthday celebration and visits with family for a few days. We are taking the motorhome to Portland to keep if the weather allows us to drive it over the pass. This will give us more flexibility in our "valley times" this spring and summer.
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Linda had a quiet day....we continue to dig to the bottom of the garage selling all that we don't need or use...made more "bucks" today...love that Craig's list!
Tomorrow we have lunch with son Jeff...then on to the monthly "DEFEAT" (Diet, Exercise, Family,Education, Attitude, Thriving) dinner sponsored by the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LIVESTRONG). Mike Connor, Bend Psychologist will speak about depression and fear around cancer...lessons for cancer survivorship.
Wednesday is another day in the garage...and Thursday we head to Portland for Linda's Birthday celebration and visits with family for a few days. We are taking the motorhome to Portland to keep if the weather allows us to drive it over the pass. This will give us more flexibility in our "valley times" this spring and summer.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Sunday...March 8th...2009
Quite a day today......
It took us until 3 pm to figure out we are now on daylight savings time....both of us slept most of the day....must have been something in the air as we kept "flopping back" and falling asleep.
Tonight we went to a celebration of Deb Bruce finishing her cancer treatments and her cancer gone...as we all exclaimed during the Hawaiian themed event " all PAU"! (pau (pow). Hawaiian word meaning finished or done.) Deb and husband Don have been so supportive of Linda and her Journey....even with Deb's own Journey .The expressions of commitment and thankfulness between Deb and Don and others who have supported Deb brought much emotion to Linda...to the point where she became very shaken. Linda totally understood what the words meant and the importance of caregivers, friends, supporters, etc. etc.
The gathering sang a favorite of the Bruces' (and ours) entitled "Somewhere Over the Rainbow, sung by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole (IZ) (Kamakawiwo'ole means fearless eyes).
It goes like this:
Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high
And the dreams you dream of, once in a lul-la-by
Somewhere over the rainbow, blue birds fly
And the dreams you dream of, dreams really do come true
---------
Someday, I'll wish upon a star
Wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melts like lemon drops
High above the chimney tops is where you'll find me
---------
Some where over the rainbow, blue birds fly
And the dreams that you dare to, oh why, oh why can't I?
Below....US.....then...Linda with Deb's sister Wendy...and our friend Wendy supporting Linda....bottom....and Deb on the left with Don along with "us"
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It took us until 3 pm to figure out we are now on daylight savings time....both of us slept most of the day....must have been something in the air as we kept "flopping back" and falling asleep.
Tonight we went to a celebration of Deb Bruce finishing her cancer treatments and her cancer gone...as we all exclaimed during the Hawaiian themed event " all PAU"! (pau (pow). Hawaiian word meaning finished or done.) Deb and husband Don have been so supportive of Linda and her Journey....even with Deb's own Journey .The expressions of commitment and thankfulness between Deb and Don and others who have supported Deb brought much emotion to Linda...to the point where she became very shaken. Linda totally understood what the words meant and the importance of caregivers, friends, supporters, etc. etc.
The gathering sang a favorite of the Bruces' (and ours) entitled "Somewhere Over the Rainbow, sung by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole (IZ) (Kamakawiwo'ole means fearless eyes).
It goes like this:
Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high
And the dreams you dream of, once in a lul-la-by
Somewhere over the rainbow, blue birds fly
And the dreams you dream of, dreams really do come true
---------
Someday, I'll wish upon a star
Wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melts like lemon drops
High above the chimney tops is where you'll find me
---------
Some where over the rainbow, blue birds fly
And the dreams that you dare to, oh why, oh why can't I?
Below....US.....then...Linda with Deb's sister Wendy...and our friend Wendy supporting Linda....bottom....and Deb on the left with Don along with "us"
.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Saturday PM....March 7th....2009
Quiet afternoon and evening....Linda is resting and sleeping a lot....the oncologist said the chemo from last week would be "hitting" today.....
With daughter Janine's help, we got Linda a wheelchair...spotted one in the valley (near where Janine lives) for $25 on Craig's List...and in great shape...so we will start using that a lot to preserve Linda's limited energy.
We've been using Craig's List to sell anything in the garage we haven't used for 6 months.....so far, I've made over $300 selling racks, mounting brackets, tow bars, old tv, scroll saw, etc. etc. Of course if any of you are interested in anything, we will provide a 10% discount and you pay the freight (humor). Marilyn might need a set of golf clubs....Vickie a wet suit...and so on....this Blog could become a lucrative deal for us (more humor). 
Saturday ..AM....March 7th....2009
Good Morning Vietnam! OOOPPSSSS......I mean Blog readers! You had to have been there to understand the joke).
Company....company....company......no time to write in the Blog.......(actually I forgot).......
Linda did her chemo yesterday...the doctor thought she looked strong...remember the weird "dip" on Wednesday...but Thursday and Friday she was great.....he did prescribe a shot to boost her immune system...she gets another next Thursday before we take off to Portland for a short week. The chemo went well, although the staff was short handed which made for a minor hassle....and she did get some Reike although a bit short because of the former. She does another session next Thursday AM.
What now....the oncologist will be on vacation during her next cycle so she will be seen by his partner.....we expect more of the same....then he said when he returns at the end of the third cycle......which we think is April 10th...one day after we return from Florida...he will do a scan.....the scan will tell whether things are working..if so, he continues for at least 6 cycles..if not, he has to change course immediately and try something else. He said she looked good so it should be working (this is good news, although a "surface" diagnosis).
Brother Norm leaves this am....son Jim leaves sometime this day...so it will be quiet again...back to reading and short walks....
That's about it.....Linda looks well..we told the doc she's been a bit "sassy"...somehow he or we added "lippy"...also...she has been a bit "lippy"...at least we all agreed she was not "loopy" as she had been last year while under morphine.
ps..For Norm's journeys, check http://www.stormannorm.blogspot.com/ He has promised to write more in it..
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Company....company....company......no time to write in the Blog.......(actually I forgot).......
Linda did her chemo yesterday...the doctor thought she looked strong...remember the weird "dip" on Wednesday...but Thursday and Friday she was great.....he did prescribe a shot to boost her immune system...she gets another next Thursday before we take off to Portland for a short week. The chemo went well, although the staff was short handed which made for a minor hassle....and she did get some Reike although a bit short because of the former. She does another session next Thursday AM.
What now....the oncologist will be on vacation during her next cycle so she will be seen by his partner.....we expect more of the same....then he said when he returns at the end of the third cycle......which we think is April 10th...one day after we return from Florida...he will do a scan.....the scan will tell whether things are working..if so, he continues for at least 6 cycles..if not, he has to change course immediately and try something else. He said she looked good so it should be working (this is good news, although a "surface" diagnosis).
Brother Norm leaves this am....son Jim leaves sometime this day...so it will be quiet again...back to reading and short walks....
That's about it.....Linda looks well..we told the doc she's been a bit "sassy"...somehow he or we added "lippy"...also...she has been a bit "lippy"...at least we all agreed she was not "loopy" as she had been last year while under morphine.
ps..For Norm's journeys, check http://www.stormannorm.blogspot.com/ He has promised to write more in it..
.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Wednesday....March 4th...2009
Linda's blood pressure dropped pretty dramatically today...so we had to spend a lot of time hydrating...it finally got up to reasonable numbers but not as strong as the last few days......and she feels weak and a bit "odd"...such a difference from the last few days when she felt pretty good. Our fear is that the chemo Friday will be set off or reduced like it was last time due to low blood numbers. I've suggested a hydration infusion tomorrow as I go to town for meetings anyway....Linda is not thinking she might do that but we will see in the am.
Folks have asked for Linda's address....it is 927 E Creekside Ct. Sisters OR 97759.
Brother Norman arrived today....Sons Jim and Jeff arrive tomorrow...a full house to cheer Linda.
Folks have asked for Linda's address....it is 927 E Creekside Ct. Sisters OR 97759.
Brother Norman arrived today....Sons Jim and Jeff arrive tomorrow...a full house to cheer Linda.
Wednesday ...March 4th...2008
Linda's birthday is coming...March 13th....she got her first "happy birthday" wishes from her acupuncturist in Florida...Dr. Steve and Julie are wonderful folks who have taken good care of Linda:
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We wanted to wish you Health & Good Fortune!
We sincerely hope you have a spectacular Birthday
And that the coming year sees you as
Happy & Healthy as ever.
Yours in Health,
We sincerely hope you have a spectacular Birthday
And that the coming year sees you as
Happy & Healthy as ever.
Yours in Health,
.
Davis Pain & Stress Relief Center
27453 Cashford Circle, # 102
Wesley Chapel, Fl. 33544
27453 Cashford Circle, # 102
Wesley Chapel, Fl. 33544
Tuesday...March 3rd....2009
Actually it is a bit late...and slid into March 4th......
Not much new to report......Linda had a good day.....her hair is disappearing very slowly....one strand at a time....so far not in clumps like last time....
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We received Linda's bill for cycle 1 day 1 (the 3 infusions on day one of the three week cycle)....$15, 158.00! Yikes! Good thing we have good insurance.
Linda's brother Norman, comes tomorrow for a 4 day visit. He is a missionary in Uganda and has returned to the states for a visit with family. http://www.stormannorm.blogspot.com/ is his blog site.....
Thursday I have my left hand looked at...I think arthritis is setting in and it is very painful. Linda is on my case to take medications, which I am prone not to do.....I have agreed , if the doctor says there is nothing he can do but recommend pain medications, to tell Mrs. Wood she is a very bright and right woman (again)...we shall see. Below is for those of you who agree with her:
Monday, March 2, 2009
Monday....March 2nd...2009
Not much new today...Linda and Dave have had a pretty busy day trying to get accounts in order.....still a lot of fallout from broker and banker changes, etc.. We also are trying to simplify things like automatic payments, bills, house payments etc.. into one account rather than multiple banks.....and reconciling automatic payments for different services, etc., etc.
Enough said about that....
We also are "Craiglisting" (a verb I made up) a bunch of stuff...in the order of simplification...that takes a lot of effort....
Linda is still maintaining her positive attitude...living each day in a positive way.....her focus was/is not the result of any "Blogreader" (a noun I made up) but rather having found herself slipping into a depressed state and all after meeting with the oncologist last Friday.....Linda wants to live each day of her life in a positive way, rather than allowing a future to control her present...make sense?
Linda will start Reike again on Friday....she is not doing any acupuncture because the low grade of time release morphine is controlling the pleuritic pain as well as the cough.......you cannot imagine the difference in her "life" as a result of this simple medication.....and it is not affecting her verbal skills or consciousness....the result of this is I still cannot get away with anything!
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It rained all day..hence the following:
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Sunday, March 1, 2009
Sunday....March 1...2009
A quiet Sunday......
The Secret....The Secret To Health....a reading by Linda Wood:
"Love and gratitude will dessolve all negativity in our lives, no matter what form it has taken. Love and gratitude can part seas, move mountains, and create miracles. And love and gratitude can dissolve any disease."
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Saturday...February 28th...2009
And here's Linda............
Today is the first day of the rest of my life. Yesterday was an "ah-hah" day for me and I definitely had to do an emotional change for myself, or I'd have started slipping fast. I was looking too closely at my mortality and how quick it could all end. I didn't have that "I believe" spirit going, but it's back in full spirit now. I had forgotten how much in control of my health I am, so I'm back to reading the health chapter of "The Secret" daily, being constantly grateful for all the great things in my life, and working hard to keep my self-talk positive. I try to spend each day now living my life as if I don't have cancer. Of course, I still take my naps and limit my activities, but still try to do a lot of the daily things I have always done.
.
One thing I am asking of those of you who call, is to try to limit our conversations to daily goings on of your lives and just fun things of mine rather than discussing cancer. The more conversations I have about my cancer is in a way inviting more in. The Blog should give you everything you need to know cancer wise.
Thank you all for being here and believing in me. You are definitely a part of my grateful thoughts every day.
Love and gratitude........Linda
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PS..Cousin Dr. Ron came by tonight with son Jacob after a day of skiing at Mt. Bachelor. Ron is a wonderful addition to Linda's journey....Jacob was pretty cool too.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Friday ...February 27th...2009
We missed a "Blog" (a noun) last night as we had delightful company and then "crashed"....as today was a big "chemo" day.
We had accumulated a "potful" of questions for the oncologist today...and he, in his amazing way, was able to address all of them in a way that we clearly understood...some of the answers we didn't care for, but we understand where we stand.
In no particular order......
We saw the scan of the lungs last week at the pulmonologist...the tumor in the left lung seemed to us to be larger than before the treatment last year and the right lung seemed to have many small tumors...is this true we asked? And why with all the chemo and radiation was this possible?
He explained it this way.....many, if most all the cancer cells were killed by the radiation and chemo....not all were killed, and those that survived multiply at a rapid rate...and they spread. He said that it is not the size or number that is the critical thing at this point, but rather, can the cancer be controlled.....that is what his task is to do.....control the spread....and this control may involve shrinkage of the tumors.
We understood after questioning, that this is the "first line" of treatment of stage four cancer....."lines" will make sense to those who have read about treatments. If the treatment is having no effect on the cancer...and this is the best treatment, then the odds of the second line of treatment be effective are not good.
How do we know? He is scheduling a scan after the third cycle of treatment.
Will the cycles of chemo continue? Yes, if any impact is seen.
We asked about the many suggestions we have received about miracle cures and alternative treatments. He said the best that can be given to/for Linda is love and support.
Linda told him about how we wanted to move to Portland to be nearer to family once our house sold...she also talked about Oregon Heath Sciences University (OHSU)....we've had recommendations to go there for treatment. He supported doing treatment where patients live...trekking off to Seattle for treatment or wherever and living in Central Oregon is very difficult. he supported getting a second opinion at OHSU. It was clear in his discussion that he is in constant communication with OHSU......they are not doing anything different than he is doing...he is very much aware of the new lung cancer oncologist, who is said to be the best in the nation, coming to OHSU....he supported Linda seeing him for a second opinion.
We discussed clinical trials...first he explained clinical trials...they are experimental, when nothing else works...they are not that successful....but provide answers to what works and what doesn't. If there is a lung cancer clinical trial in Portland, he will know about it and can be involved.
Where are we....We feel very good about this oncologist....as he said...he doesn't "push" answers or information on us...when we want to know, he is very responsive. Linda has a lot of trust in him. He is not isolated from the "real world" or the "Bigger world". He knows what is going on. Linda has decided to have an appointment set up with the OHSU oncologist but not actually go up there until she has the upcoming scan in hand as there will be more information then as to where she is at. The Bend oncologist said he would have everything she needed to take with her for the OHSU oncologist to see.
She knows friends and all want to help. She wants you to know that she was very emotional today....she went to a negative place....and almost to a place of "resignation". She then began to gather an inner strength and focused on "believing" again..believing she can beat this. I could see the tears welling up in her eyes and the pain behind them. Now I see her determination back.
What does she "need"....."want" is a better word...continued love and support...recognize she is up against a tough situation and urge her on..and we know you are doing that now.
Linda's immune system is down....duh....the chemo does that...so today they had to modify the amounts given to her...as today was her big chemo day. She did well..and came home and napped well. We are in bed at 7:30 pm as we are both mentally, emotionally as well as physically tired. And then I realized we were going to do the Blog..doing the Blog is actually energizing...
We thank you...and GOOD NIGHT!!!!!!!
ps...because of Linda's immunity drop, it is important to understand if you visit...be well....and limit your "touching".......and everyone wash their hands with soap and water before reading this Blog.
We had accumulated a "potful" of questions for the oncologist today...and he, in his amazing way, was able to address all of them in a way that we clearly understood...some of the answers we didn't care for, but we understand where we stand.
In no particular order......
We saw the scan of the lungs last week at the pulmonologist...the tumor in the left lung seemed to us to be larger than before the treatment last year and the right lung seemed to have many small tumors...is this true we asked? And why with all the chemo and radiation was this possible?
He explained it this way.....many, if most all the cancer cells were killed by the radiation and chemo....not all were killed, and those that survived multiply at a rapid rate...and they spread. He said that it is not the size or number that is the critical thing at this point, but rather, can the cancer be controlled.....that is what his task is to do.....control the spread....and this control may involve shrinkage of the tumors.
We understood after questioning, that this is the "first line" of treatment of stage four cancer....."lines" will make sense to those who have read about treatments. If the treatment is having no effect on the cancer...and this is the best treatment, then the odds of the second line of treatment be effective are not good.
How do we know? He is scheduling a scan after the third cycle of treatment.
Will the cycles of chemo continue? Yes, if any impact is seen.
We asked about the many suggestions we have received about miracle cures and alternative treatments. He said the best that can be given to/for Linda is love and support.
Linda told him about how we wanted to move to Portland to be nearer to family once our house sold...she also talked about Oregon Heath Sciences University (OHSU)....we've had recommendations to go there for treatment. He supported doing treatment where patients live...trekking off to Seattle for treatment or wherever and living in Central Oregon is very difficult. he supported getting a second opinion at OHSU. It was clear in his discussion that he is in constant communication with OHSU......they are not doing anything different than he is doing...he is very much aware of the new lung cancer oncologist, who is said to be the best in the nation, coming to OHSU....he supported Linda seeing him for a second opinion.
We discussed clinical trials...first he explained clinical trials...they are experimental, when nothing else works...they are not that successful....but provide answers to what works and what doesn't. If there is a lung cancer clinical trial in Portland, he will know about it and can be involved.
Where are we....We feel very good about this oncologist....as he said...he doesn't "push" answers or information on us...when we want to know, he is very responsive. Linda has a lot of trust in him. He is not isolated from the "real world" or the "Bigger world". He knows what is going on. Linda has decided to have an appointment set up with the OHSU oncologist but not actually go up there until she has the upcoming scan in hand as there will be more information then as to where she is at. The Bend oncologist said he would have everything she needed to take with her for the OHSU oncologist to see.
She knows friends and all want to help. She wants you to know that she was very emotional today....she went to a negative place....and almost to a place of "resignation". She then began to gather an inner strength and focused on "believing" again..believing she can beat this. I could see the tears welling up in her eyes and the pain behind them. Now I see her determination back.
What does she "need"....."want" is a better word...continued love and support...recognize she is up against a tough situation and urge her on..and we know you are doing that now.
Linda's immune system is down....duh....the chemo does that...so today they had to modify the amounts given to her...as today was her big chemo day. She did well..and came home and napped well. We are in bed at 7:30 pm as we are both mentally, emotionally as well as physically tired. And then I realized we were going to do the Blog..doing the Blog is actually energizing...
We thank you...and GOOD NIGHT!!!!!!!
ps...because of Linda's immunity drop, it is important to understand if you visit...be well....and limit your "touching".......and everyone wash their hands with soap and water before reading this Blog.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Wednesday...February 25th...2009
We are worn out! What a day. Run here. Run there. Run everywhere.
We spoke earlier of getting loans renewed on unsold properties and houses with a bank that closed its local commercial office, so we've had to deal with strangers in Portland. Even today they seemed to throw curves making things more difficult.....not deliberately but it is happening. If Linda was feeling bad, I am unsure how we would be able to complete the task....in all her years in property acquisitions and finance, this has been the toughest...and she thinks they still have it wrong.
We met with our broker and have some things squared away....another meeting is in order as we ran out of time...their changing brokerages in the middle of all this economic stuff has been a challenge to us.
We did get to interview the individual at St Charles Medical Center today, who provided us with much help during our darkest hours in the "cancer world". Rosemary Johnson has been a gift to us and to many others....to provide the emotional and spiritual support to go along with the clinical things doctors do to stop the cancer. I am writing an article on how her work lines up alongside the Wings work she did years ago.
By the way, my article for the National Smokejumper Association Magazine has been accepted and will be in the next quarterly issue.
Tomorrow Linda's dear friend and insurance agent Judy Baszniak and her husband Roman come for the day to visit, from Salem. The rumor is that cousin Dr. Ron will be stopping by Friday night on his way from Eugene to ski at Mt. Bachelor Saturday. Linda is eager to see these folks......they all are great support for her.
Is Linda in bed....nope....watching "Biggest Loser".....her favorite show....should she be in bed....yup....can I direct her otherwise...nope...she's been a bit "sassy" this week.....a sure sign she is feeling better....and that's the good news.
We spoke earlier of getting loans renewed on unsold properties and houses with a bank that closed its local commercial office, so we've had to deal with strangers in Portland. Even today they seemed to throw curves making things more difficult.....not deliberately but it is happening. If Linda was feeling bad, I am unsure how we would be able to complete the task....in all her years in property acquisitions and finance, this has been the toughest...and she thinks they still have it wrong.
We met with our broker and have some things squared away....another meeting is in order as we ran out of time...their changing brokerages in the middle of all this economic stuff has been a challenge to us.
We did get to interview the individual at St Charles Medical Center today, who provided us with much help during our darkest hours in the "cancer world". Rosemary Johnson has been a gift to us and to many others....to provide the emotional and spiritual support to go along with the clinical things doctors do to stop the cancer. I am writing an article on how her work lines up alongside the Wings work she did years ago.
By the way, my article for the National Smokejumper Association Magazine has been accepted and will be in the next quarterly issue.
Tomorrow Linda's dear friend and insurance agent Judy Baszniak and her husband Roman come for the day to visit, from Salem. The rumor is that cousin Dr. Ron will be stopping by Friday night on his way from Eugene to ski at Mt. Bachelor Saturday. Linda is eager to see these folks......they all are great support for her.
Is Linda in bed....nope....watching "Biggest Loser".....her favorite show....should she be in bed....yup....can I direct her otherwise...nope...she's been a bit "sassy" this week.....a sure sign she is feeling better....and that's the good news.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Tuesday....February 24th...2009
Linda had a good day today....with the cough ceasing (or at least minimizing), her days are much better. She had good energy today as well as at a dinner with our neighbors across the creek (a delightful dinner and company).
Tomorrow we tackle investment brokers, housing/building loans and other business matters....as day sure to tire Linda out....originally we were to be at a George Jones concert in warm Florida (oh well).
This picture was Linda last week with grand daughter Jillian....
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Monday, February 23, 2009
Monday...February 23rd...2009
A quiet day today.....Linda doing taxes....Dave doing medical payments and reviewing investments as well as writing an article for the National Smokejumper Association Magazine.
Where did the day go....where did Linda's cough go?
Linda starts the second cycle of treatment Friday....
That's about it....
Where did the day go....where did Linda's cough go?
Linda starts the second cycle of treatment Friday....
That's about it....
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Sunday....February 22nd....2009
Today was a quiet, restful day for Dave and I. Dave watched the long (as usual) Nascar race on TV while I retired upstairs for a peaceful nap and then catching up on TV shows I was behind on. I don't get to watch all my favorite shows as we have Dish Satellite and they don't have a contract with ABC right now.
http://www.krisking.org/
Dave gave me a new book yesterday called "My Heart has Wings" by our good friend Kris King who owns Wings Seminars. I do a lot of reading these days, and I'm sure I'll enjoy this book.
I am so excited to be on the morphine for my cough and without any side effects that I am aware of. I have had a few episodes of coughing today, but compared to what I had pre-medication, I am quite happy with the quality of life improvement.
It's been great to read comments from you new bloggers and hearing from old friends. I can't tell you what it does for my morale. I feel so blessed.
Love and gratitude.....Linda
http://www.krisking.org/
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Saturday...February 21st...2009
Linda went to bed early..a bit tired from a long day...she participated in the open house for the spec home she constructed and has had on the market....but she's in pretty good shape....the medication is controlling the cough...a much....much difference...to the good. This is her week off from chemo...the next cycle of treatment starts next Friday morning.
We have scheduled a flight to Florida on the 27th of March ...returning on the 9th of April...this is scheduled between treatments..our plan is to purchase a folding wheel chair and to use it even if she doesn't need it...we have asked to have it stowed in the cabin of each leg of the flights so it can be used at all times....of course all can change if she doesn't feel up to it...
Daughter Janine will just be ending a week at our place in Florida and daughter Wendy, son in law Chris and grand daughter Taigen will be arriving soon after us...
Son Jeff is doing the Wings Seminars Crossover Seminar this coming week..we are really excited...he attended 20 years ago but was a bit young...this should be an incredible experience for him....we will be his "cheerleaders".
We have scheduled a flight to Florida on the 27th of March ...returning on the 9th of April...this is scheduled between treatments..our plan is to purchase a folding wheel chair and to use it even if she doesn't need it...we have asked to have it stowed in the cabin of each leg of the flights so it can be used at all times....of course all can change if she doesn't feel up to it...
Daughter Janine will just be ending a week at our place in Florida and daughter Wendy, son in law Chris and grand daughter Taigen will be arriving soon after us...
Son Jeff is doing the Wings Seminars Crossover Seminar this coming week..we are really excited...he attended 20 years ago but was a bit young...this should be an incredible experience for him....we will be his "cheerleaders".
Friday, February 20, 2009
Friday....February 20th...2009
Much easier day today...with a lot accomplished....Linda is finding the medication to be effective....good news! she just has to learn to take the 2nd pill sooner than 12 hours.....so tomorrow she will try 11 hours.....she didn't cough all day until this evening. Linda is very thankful for the pulmonologist and his insights...
Tomorrow we will participate in an open house at our spec house that hasn't sold.....boy, if we found a buyer it would lift a great weight off us.....Linda has had to arrange refinancing for another year on the house which has been stressful as the banker we have had for years is gone...a victim of the economy.....we now have to deal with people we don't know in Portland....the loan is finally coming through.
You like cartoons....here's another....in this case the 5th doctor was right....
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Thursday....February 19th....2009
Short version tonight...it's late and we are tired........
Linda's medication....a low dose of morphine to ease the cough was hard to locate as the pulmonologist wanted a certain brand..we had to go back to Bend to get a "hard copy" of the prescription which is required of narcotics and then a pharmacy south of Bend to pick it up. Linda has taken it and as she says "the jury is still out".
Linda looks very tired today....she is dealing with several things including the cancer.....and it is showing on her....tomorrow I'm working on her getting more rest and letting the "outside world stay outside".
Thanks for the cards and the special little extras..we know many many people care and know she is fighting a tough battle...keep the comments coming...they give her strength.
Linda is starting acupunture again next week...tomorrow she is going to meet with a person locally to see if that's where she wants to go....
Linda's medication....a low dose of morphine to ease the cough was hard to locate as the pulmonologist wanted a certain brand..we had to go back to Bend to get a "hard copy" of the prescription which is required of narcotics and then a pharmacy south of Bend to pick it up. Linda has taken it and as she says "the jury is still out".
Linda looks very tired today....she is dealing with several things including the cancer.....and it is showing on her....tomorrow I'm working on her getting more rest and letting the "outside world stay outside".
Thanks for the cards and the special little extras..we know many many people care and know she is fighting a tough battle...keep the comments coming...they give her strength.
Linda is starting acupunture again next week...tomorrow she is going to meet with a person locally to see if that's where she wants to go....
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Wednesday...February 18th...2008
In my research the past few days on Linda's cough and all, I ran across the following an individual stated as part of a forum on lung cancer and everything associated with it....... I know God won't give me more than I can handle, but there are times I wish he didn't trust me so much!
I filed it in the back of my mind.....not knowing that today would come.....today is a day we mark down as one not to repeat....and it has nothing to do with the cancer and doctor visits and all...it is about the "real world" being a bit difficult to deal with today....with our energies focused on Linda's health issues.
First...the health stuff.....Linda had a pulmonary test yesterday at the Pulmonologist office...the results were good..we had wondered if the cancer had diminished her lung capacity..etc..etc..it appears not at this time. Today she was seen by the Pulmonologist. We spent a lot of time going over who had done what.....said what.....prescribed what......etc.....and looking at the latest scan of her lungs.....in the end, the explanation for what is going on appears quite simple. The cancer is causing the phlegm. The chemo treatments should reduce the cancer, therefore reducing the phlegm. In the short term, the doctor prescribed a low level narcotic to reduce the coughing..although it will not totally eliminate it. We discussed the "chicken and the egg"....will the coughing reduction create more phlegm and more problems or will more phlegm cause more coughing ...or...or. The doctor said there should not be a problem reducing the coughing. He also questioned the value of the Musinex...but told her to keep drinking water....
So we are on a plan for the cough....oh....we couldn't get the medication today as there was some confusion in the dosage..and..and. So tomorrow we can get Linda fixed up at the pharmacy (just another "thing" added to this "day of days".
So what is going on around us, in the "real world"?
A bunch of C-R-A-P....to put it in a printable form.
We were in the midst of re upping our financing on Linda's construction project which hasn't sold...something about a bad economy. Anyway, our banker who we have followed through three different banks has been let go..as have the entire commercial part of the bank, locally.....now Linda has to deal with people in Portland who do not know her..she doesn't know them....it is stressful and came to a head today.
Our broker was with Merrill Lynch...bought out by Bank of America...who imposed new rules...brokers bailed and went to Morgan Stanley ...easy?...nope...hard...today was just another bit of complications with that transfer to the day more forgettable.
And there was more today to make it a day to forget. Tomorrow we will wake up and address the day with new energy and a better attitude. Actually all in all, we did well today with all of the things that happened....we did remember to "breathe"...well, for the most part....
Tomorrow we will laugh.....and breathe.....
.
I filed it in the back of my mind.....not knowing that today would come.....today is a day we mark down as one not to repeat....and it has nothing to do with the cancer and doctor visits and all...it is about the "real world" being a bit difficult to deal with today....with our energies focused on Linda's health issues.
First...the health stuff.....Linda had a pulmonary test yesterday at the Pulmonologist office...the results were good..we had wondered if the cancer had diminished her lung capacity..etc..etc..it appears not at this time. Today she was seen by the Pulmonologist. We spent a lot of time going over who had done what.....said what.....prescribed what......etc.....and looking at the latest scan of her lungs.....in the end, the explanation for what is going on appears quite simple. The cancer is causing the phlegm. The chemo treatments should reduce the cancer, therefore reducing the phlegm. In the short term, the doctor prescribed a low level narcotic to reduce the coughing..although it will not totally eliminate it. We discussed the "chicken and the egg"....will the coughing reduction create more phlegm and more problems or will more phlegm cause more coughing ...or...or. The doctor said there should not be a problem reducing the coughing. He also questioned the value of the Musinex...but told her to keep drinking water....
So we are on a plan for the cough....oh....we couldn't get the medication today as there was some confusion in the dosage..and..and. So tomorrow we can get Linda fixed up at the pharmacy (just another "thing" added to this "day of days".
So what is going on around us, in the "real world"?
A bunch of C-R-A-P....to put it in a printable form.
We were in the midst of re upping our financing on Linda's construction project which hasn't sold...something about a bad economy. Anyway, our banker who we have followed through three different banks has been let go..as have the entire commercial part of the bank, locally.....now Linda has to deal with people in Portland who do not know her..she doesn't know them....it is stressful and came to a head today.
Our broker was with Merrill Lynch...bought out by Bank of America...who imposed new rules...brokers bailed and went to Morgan Stanley ...easy?...nope...hard...today was just another bit of complications with that transfer to the day more forgettable.
And there was more today to make it a day to forget. Tomorrow we will wake up and address the day with new energy and a better attitude. Actually all in all, we did well today with all of the things that happened....we did remember to "breathe"...well, for the most part....
Tomorrow we will laugh.....and breathe.....
.
The above is a picture on the Wings-seminars web site....the personal growth seminars we have mentioned on this Blog....the picture has always intrigued me....and has had different meanings to me at different times...today it means we have crossed over a difficult day....it means we have to energy to meet any challenge....it means there is no mountain high enough or an issue difficult enough to stop us.
I am also reminded of a piece of music in the seminars that I want to find and play....I cannot remember the name but a line in the song goes like this: "may we find peace in our bodies".....did I mention we were going to breathe?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Tuesday...February 17th...2009
Random Acts of Kindness Day
Always February 17th
Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day. Today, do a few random acts of kindness. Almost any kind deed will do. And, it is highly recommend you perform kind acts on as many people as you can.
This is a favorite day of many people and groups. People like the idea of showing a little kindness to others. Its a fun and good thing to do. And, they like being on the receiving end of this day as well. It makes both the giver and the receiver feel good.
To receive everything, one must open one's hands and give. -- Taisen Deshimaru
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Always February 17th
Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day. Today, do a few random acts of kindness. Almost any kind deed will do. And, it is highly recommend you perform kind acts on as many people as you can.
This is a favorite day of many people and groups. People like the idea of showing a little kindness to others. Its a fun and good thing to do. And, they like being on the receiving end of this day as well. It makes both the giver and the receiver feel good.
To receive everything, one must open one's hands and give. -- Taisen Deshimaru
.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Monday....February 16th...2009
A theory....
So last night I worked on the computer and Internet for hours researching Linda's cough and phlegm.....this is what I have come up with knowing that the Internet doesn't always have the right answers and one has to sort through things..
The phlegm is the body's production to rid the lung of "foreign" material...in this case the debris and all from the cancer and treatments.
The phlegm will not go away as long as the "stuff" is in the lung.
The use of a cough suppressant..ie cough syrup is not the right thing to do...the objective is to get rid of the phlegm....by coughing.
The impact of the phlegm can be reduced by using medication such as Musinex to "thin" the phlegm, allowing it to be coughed up easier.
Drinking lots of water will also reduce the thickness of the phlegm.
Swallowing the phlegm is not a good thing to do. .(....NOTE: Linda and I discussed this today....and felt that because cancer is non infectious, swallowing isn't a problem)
Agree or disagree.......
.
So last night I worked on the computer and Internet for hours researching Linda's cough and phlegm.....this is what I have come up with knowing that the Internet doesn't always have the right answers and one has to sort through things..
The phlegm is the body's production to rid the lung of "foreign" material...in this case the debris and all from the cancer and treatments.
The phlegm will not go away as long as the "stuff" is in the lung.
The use of a cough suppressant..ie cough syrup is not the right thing to do...the objective is to get rid of the phlegm....by coughing.
The impact of the phlegm can be reduced by using medication such as Musinex to "thin" the phlegm, allowing it to be coughed up easier.
Drinking lots of water will also reduce the thickness of the phlegm.
Swallowing the phlegm is not a good thing to do. .(....NOTE: Linda and I discussed this today....and felt that because cancer is non infectious, swallowing isn't a problem)
Agree or disagree.......
.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Sunday...February 15th....2009
Hhhhhheeeerrrrreeeeeesssss Linda......
Thank you for hanging in here with me. I feel like I've gone from a posse to an army. I didn't realize how many of you were still paying attention until the news of my cancer return was put on the blog and all the comments showed up. How happy I was, because do I ever need you all now!
Son Jim and wife Jenn volunteer time for a cancer fighting organization, and tonight they had a fund raising event at the pub that Jim manaages. We and daughter Janine went to it and played Bingo for cancer. I can't tell you how many games we played, but nary a Bingo. There were people there than won multiple games, but it wasn't our night. It was for a good cause, though.
Tomorrow is daughter Janine's birthday, which I rarely get to experience personally since I'm usually in Florida. It will be great to have the opportunity to take her to dinner this year and fix her a birthday dessert. She's a big cheerleader for me this round, working hard to keep my spirits up.
Long day, so bedtime for me!
Love and gratitude........Linda
Thank you for hanging in here with me. I feel like I've gone from a posse to an army. I didn't realize how many of you were still paying attention until the news of my cancer return was put on the blog and all the comments showed up. How happy I was, because do I ever need you all now!
Son Jim and wife Jenn volunteer time for a cancer fighting organization, and tonight they had a fund raising event at the pub that Jim manaages. We and daughter Janine went to it and played Bingo for cancer. I can't tell you how many games we played, but nary a Bingo. There were people there than won multiple games, but it wasn't our night. It was for a good cause, though.
Tomorrow is daughter Janine's birthday, which I rarely get to experience personally since I'm usually in Florida. It will be great to have the opportunity to take her to dinner this year and fix her a birthday dessert. She's a big cheerleader for me this round, working hard to keep my spirits up.
Long day, so bedtime for me!
Love and gratitude........Linda
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Linda...the "Bingo Lady".....
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Saturday, February 14, 2009
Saturday...February 14th...2009
Linda started the day by doing her nap in the morning...for two hours....who knows what that was all about...then we went on a "shopping spree" and bought next to nothing....but I wheeled her around Costco in a wheel chair....saving her energy...she was a bit hesitant at first but it worked well.....you can't imagine how many people jumped out of our way...not too bad....and I hear rumors one with a wheel chair goes to the head of the line....hmmmm...we might be on to something.Linda didn't start coughing til evening...she actually thought maybe there was a reprieve...it still was better than most days.
We exchanged our personal valentines as we have in the past....Linda reflected on the day we got together in the beginning of our relationship and her appreciation for the time we have left together. I noted the "shift" in our lives and reflected on the new realities we face and the optimism I want to have for our future. I also reflected on Linda's strength and courage and how she looks for the good in life. I believe our best days in our relationship lie ahead.
We hope your Valentine's Day was as fullfilling as ours was....
Friday, February 13, 2009
Friday...February 13th...2009
Finally made it to Portland...a long day....
Linda did her infusion today....somehow we misunderstood the chemical for today...it was the Gemzar....we thought it was the Avastin.....oh well..she did well...son Jim was there to support her. Now she has next week off....the biggest side effect seems to be the fatigue...she has limited resources in "her tank", we so have to be careful....
We had a discussion with the oncologist about the coughing which is not a side effect of the chemo but rather a direct effect of the cancer...he is scheduling Linda to see a pulmonologist who will start from the cancer as the base...not an infection (been there..done that..too many times...it is not bronchitis..it is not pneumonia...it is not TB).
We picked up grand daughter Jillian in Eugene and quizzed each other all the way to Portland...I mean, this kid is a straight "A" student..for the second time in a row....but she didn't know what happened 1 billion hours ago...answer..the stone age. She also didn't know it takes the US government a bit over 8 hours to spend a billion dollars.....but she nailed us on a few things too.
We stopped by the Wings Seminars building.....they are doing the couples seminar at this time...a seminar Linda and Dave have done many times....it was special for Linda to see Kris and Kyle King and to remember the special impacts these two people and the seminars have had on her as she shaped her life's direction and focus. It was where she owned her personal contract which is: I am an open , powerful and courageous woman. When I hear this, I am reminded how well this has served and will serve Linda in her life's journeys....and challenges.
Happy Valentines Day to all...Linda and I have agreed to do something each Valentine's Day..we write each other a "love letter"...a letter of what we mean to each other and our dreams of being together and...and. It has been a very moving experience...and "real".
Enough...we spend three days with family...keeping a low profile....
Linda did her infusion today....somehow we misunderstood the chemical for today...it was the Gemzar....we thought it was the Avastin.....oh well..she did well...son Jim was there to support her. Now she has next week off....the biggest side effect seems to be the fatigue...she has limited resources in "her tank", we so have to be careful....
We had a discussion with the oncologist about the coughing which is not a side effect of the chemo but rather a direct effect of the cancer...he is scheduling Linda to see a pulmonologist who will start from the cancer as the base...not an infection (been there..done that..too many times...it is not bronchitis..it is not pneumonia...it is not TB).
We picked up grand daughter Jillian in Eugene and quizzed each other all the way to Portland...I mean, this kid is a straight "A" student..for the second time in a row....but she didn't know what happened 1 billion hours ago...answer..the stone age. She also didn't know it takes the US government a bit over 8 hours to spend a billion dollars.....but she nailed us on a few things too.
We stopped by the Wings Seminars building.....they are doing the couples seminar at this time...a seminar Linda and Dave have done many times....it was special for Linda to see Kris and Kyle King and to remember the special impacts these two people and the seminars have had on her as she shaped her life's direction and focus. It was where she owned her personal contract which is: I am an open , powerful and courageous woman. When I hear this, I am reminded how well this has served and will serve Linda in her life's journeys....and challenges.
Happy Valentines Day to all...Linda and I have agreed to do something each Valentine's Day..we write each other a "love letter"...a letter of what we mean to each other and our dreams of being together and...and. It has been a very moving experience...and "real".
Enough...we spend three days with family...keeping a low profile....
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Thursday....February 12th...2009
Tomorrow Linda does another infusion treatment....this will be day 1 of week 2 of the first of four three week cycles. She will receive the Avastin....in a one hour time line....the first time it takes 90 minutes...the next 60 minutes and then after that..30 minutes each time.....
Linda also plans on discussing her cough in detail with the Oncologist as we mentioned....as it dampens her spirit...she had a better day today energy wise as she was much more conservative in her activities today....she remembers she "only has so much to spend".
Tomorrow we also leave for Eugene to pick up the number one grand daughter...the "Buzzard"....aka Jillian. Also we will drop in on the Wings couples seminar Listening Heart....to say hi. Then it's off to Portland to spend the three day weekend....it's also daughter Janine's birthday weekend. We also hope to see Nancy....Claudia...and anyone else giving us a call.
Linda also plans on discussing her cough in detail with the Oncologist as we mentioned....as it dampens her spirit...she had a better day today energy wise as she was much more conservative in her activities today....she remembers she "only has so much to spend".
Tomorrow we also leave for Eugene to pick up the number one grand daughter...the "Buzzard"....aka Jillian. Also we will drop in on the Wings couples seminar Listening Heart....to say hi. Then it's off to Portland to spend the three day weekend....it's also daughter Janine's birthday weekend. We also hope to see Nancy....Claudia...and anyone else giving us a call.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Wednesday...February 11...2008
Linda has been pretty tired today...fatigue....I think she started out pretty "fast" today and over spent her allotted "energy".....
Son Jim is here to visit for a couple of days .....maybe she will slow down.
Her cough and phlegm is starting to mess with her spirit and all....we hope Friday to get this taken care of....she has been taking Mucinex for over a month now.....her internist suggested it in December. She also has taken about every type of cough syrup prescribed with little success. One doctor wants her to cough....the next doesn't....the problem is it interferes with her breathing....so a "fix" is important.
Son Jim is here to visit for a couple of days .....maybe she will slow down.
Her cough and phlegm is starting to mess with her spirit and all....we hope Friday to get this taken care of....she has been taking Mucinex for over a month now.....her internist suggested it in December. She also has taken about every type of cough syrup prescribed with little success. One doctor wants her to cough....the next doesn't....the problem is it interferes with her breathing....so a "fix" is important.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Tuesday...February 10th....2009
A quiet day for the most part...Linda is experiencing some fatigue from the chemo but she has had experience with it before, so she is being careful about it.....she is thankful there is no bone pain this time nor the burnt esophagus from radiation...so there are things to be thankful for.
Linda wants to get to the bottom of the phlegm..it is having a great impact on her...this is the toughest condition at the moment...and has been for a while...at her meeting with the oncologist Friday, she wants him to help her figure out a solution..which may mean him conferring with colleagues such as a pulmonologist...the cough medications, etc. etc. don't seem to help....
Tonight we went to the St. Charles Medical center DEFEAT CANCER dinner.... the featured speaker was Barbara Buchan, a two gold medal winner at the Beijing Olympics in '08. Barbara was an inspirational speaker....she suffered severe brain damage in a bicycling accident during a competition when she was young, losing part of her brain and speech, etc. She chose to go forward and became a para Olympics competitor rather than resign herself to a nursing home for the rest of her life.
We heard:
With patience, things can happen.
She has no time for the negatives.
Take each day as you can.
Her turning point was being blessed with family and friends...surround yourself with family and friends.
Choose to go forward.
Part of the evening was spent building commitments to EXERCISE (the "E" in DEFEAT)....with the idea that personal physical improvement leads to improved health, well being and having fun...
It was a well spent evening..we are grateful for this opportunity to connect with others with cancer/caregivers.
Linda with Barbara and her two gold medals:
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When daughter Janine was here, she gave her mother a "rainbow box" with scraps of paper that started with "I am going to beat this because..." and the idea is that Linda is to complete the sentences as she feels ready and put them in the box...over and over as thoughts or feelings come to her about beating the cancer. Linda has called it her "reflection box" because of the tiny mirrors and that it allows her to reflect on where she has been and where she going with the cancer......
Monday, February 9, 2009
Monday ....February 9th...2009
Linda felt pretty good today.... a bit worn....three bouts of significant phlegm....no nausea....slept in late....
We walked a mile and two thirds today, stopping to talk with our neighbors across the creek....Jack and Liz (posters on this forum too!).....they brought over some delicious soup tonight and with Linda's scones and my (ok, mostly Linda's) salad and Liz's brownies, we had a great time catching up on the neighborhood news. They are a great supportive couple.
Tomorrow I thought about skiing ...but next week maybe...Tuesday's are "Tightwad Tuesdays" at our local ski area....can't wait to get back on the "boards". Tomorrow night we attend a Defeat Cancer dinner in Bend.....it is sponsored by the Lance Armstrong Foundation, LIVESTRONG. The guest speaker will be Barbara Buchan, two gold medal winner in the past Olympics...... her topic: Riding Down a Dream: Lessons For Cancer Survivorship.
When Linda was in treatment last winter, we attended several of the events like the above,through our local hospital....the events and ladies (Rosemary and Beth) have been very key to our mental and emotional health during all this....we appreciate them a lot.
We walked a mile and two thirds today, stopping to talk with our neighbors across the creek....Jack and Liz (posters on this forum too!).....they brought over some delicious soup tonight and with Linda's scones and my (ok, mostly Linda's) salad and Liz's brownies, we had a great time catching up on the neighborhood news. They are a great supportive couple.
Tomorrow I thought about skiing ...but next week maybe...Tuesday's are "Tightwad Tuesdays" at our local ski area....can't wait to get back on the "boards". Tomorrow night we attend a Defeat Cancer dinner in Bend.....it is sponsored by the Lance Armstrong Foundation, LIVESTRONG. The guest speaker will be Barbara Buchan, two gold medal winner in the past Olympics...... her topic: Riding Down a Dream: Lessons For Cancer Survivorship.
When Linda was in treatment last winter, we attended several of the events like the above,through our local hospital....the events and ladies (Rosemary and Beth) have been very key to our mental and emotional health during all this....we appreciate them a lot.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Sunday...February 8th...2009
Linda woke up a bit fatigued today...but hasn't had too bad a day all in all....she has been on the phone a lot......daughter Janine left for home in Portland this afternoon.
My day has been kind of "funky" ie...a state of "funk"....
This three week period will be one of trial and error...seeing what the effects of the treatments will be....keeping Linda eating and drinking water...and resting.
My day has been kind of "funky" ie...a state of "funk"....
This three week period will be one of trial and error...seeing what the effects of the treatments will be....keeping Linda eating and drinking water...and resting.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Saturday....February 7th...2008
The other Chemotherapy Drugs Linda is taking on the first day of each three week cycle of treatment:
Carboplatin
Carboplatin is a chemotherapy medication .
Carboplatin is a chemotherapy agent used for treatment of many types of cancer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved carboplatin for use treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer.
Gemzar
Gemzar is used in combination with other types of chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic (stage IV or cancer that has spread) non-small cell lung cancer for whom surgery is not possible.
Gemzar belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites. Antimetabolites are very similar to normal substances within the cell. When the cells incorporate these substances into the cellular metabolism, they are unable to divide. Antimetabolites are cell-cycle specific. They attack cells at very specific phases in the cycle.
The ability of chemotherapy to kill cancer cells depends on its ability to halt cell division. Usually, the drugs work by damaging the RNA or DNA that tells the cell how to copy itself in division. If the cells are unable to divide, they die. The faster the cells are dividing, the more likely it is that chemotherapy will kill the cells, causing the tumor to shrink. They also induce cell suicide (self-death or apoptosis).
Carboplatin
Carboplatin is a chemotherapy medication .
Carboplatin is a chemotherapy agent used for treatment of many types of cancer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved carboplatin for use treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer.
Carboplatin is a platinum organic compound. Plain carbolplain appears as white crystals or powder, but it is mixed into a saline solution and administered through an intravenous feed.
Carboplatin kills cancer cells by binding to DNA and interfering with the cell's repair mechanism, which eventually leads to cell death. It is classified as an alkylating agents. (Alkylating agents can be used for most types of cancer, but are usually considered of greatest value in treating slow-growing cancers.) The platinum agents form strong chemical bonds with thiol sulfurs and amino nitrogens in proteins and nucleic acids.
It is considered a "second-generation" platinum agent. The first generation, cisplatin, is often called the "penicillin of cancer drugs" because it is used so widely. Carboplatin differs chemically from cisplatin by being a bigger molecule, with a dicarboxylate ligand. This slows the metabolic breakdown of the agent (it stays in the body longer) and reduces the rate of formation of toxic by-products.Gemzar
Gemzar is used in combination with other types of chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic (stage IV or cancer that has spread) non-small cell lung cancer for whom surgery is not possible.
Gemzar belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites. Antimetabolites are very similar to normal substances within the cell. When the cells incorporate these substances into the cellular metabolism, they are unable to divide. Antimetabolites are cell-cycle specific. They attack cells at very specific phases in the cycle.
The ability of chemotherapy to kill cancer cells depends on its ability to halt cell division. Usually, the drugs work by damaging the RNA or DNA that tells the cell how to copy itself in division. If the cells are unable to divide, they die. The faster the cells are dividing, the more likely it is that chemotherapy will kill the cells, causing the tumor to shrink. They also induce cell suicide (self-death or apoptosis).
Saturday....February 7th...2009
Avastin...Linda's big helper......
An anti-angiogenic agent may inhibit blood vessel formation, which starves the tumor.
Avastin is thought to work by blocking one of the key signals that causes angiogenesis. Specifically, Avastin blocks a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF, for short). This may allow Avastin to affect the tumor in different ways:
Monoclonal antibodies and biologic therapy
How is Avastin Thought to Work?
In order to grow and spread, tumors need a constant supply of oxygen and other nutrients. Tumors get this supply by creating their own network of blood vessels. This process is called angiogenesis (an´-gee-o-jen´-i-sis). To start angiogenesis, a tumor sends out signals to nearby blood vessels. These signals cause new blood vessels to grow toward the tumor. Once these new vessels reach the tumor, they provide the supply of blood that brings oxygen and other nutrients to the tumor. This helps the tumor grow.
Avastin: an anti-angiogenic agent
A tumor creates a network of blood vessels—a process called angiogenesis.
An anti-angiogenic agent may inhibit blood vessel formation, which starves the tumor.Avastin is thought to work by blocking one of the key signals that causes angiogenesis. Specifically, Avastin blocks a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF, for short). This may allow Avastin to affect the tumor in different ways:* Avastin may cause the blood vessels to shrink away from the tumor, blocking the supply of oxygen and nutrients that the tumor needs
* Avastin may also cause the existing blood vessels to change in ways that help the chemotherapy reach the tumor more effectively
* Finally, Avastin may interfere with the growth of new blood vessels, potentially helping to block further growth and spread of the cancer
What is a targeted therapy?
The phrase “targeted therapy” is often used to distinguish between treatments like Avastin and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy affects all cells that divide rapidly. Because tumor cells are constantly dividing, chemotherapy may be effective against tumors. However, some healthy cells may also divide rapidly. Chemotherapy can affect these cells too, and this can cause some of the side effects that people experience with these types of drugs.
Targeted therapies treat cancer in a different way. Because of this, the side effects of Avastin can be different than those of chemotherapy. Avastin is a particular type of targeted therapy called anti-angiogenic therapy, and it is given with chemotherapy. Anti-angiogenic therapy helps block the growth of new blood vessels that provide nutrients to the tumor.
Monoclonal antibodies and biologic therapy
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You may also hear Avastin called a monoclonal antibody or a biologic therapy. Antibodies are proteins made naturally by the body's immune system that help identify and fight foreign substances. Scientists in a lab can make many copies of one kind of antibody. Because they are “clones” of a single type, these lab-made antibodies are described as “monoclonal antibodies.” In cancer therapy, monoclonal antibodies are used to target specific substances in the body that help cancer cells grow. Avastin targets a substance that is known to help tumors grow a new network of blood vessels. Because monoclonal antibodies (proteins) are made from natural substances in the body, they are also sometimes called biologic agents
You may also hear Avastin called a monoclonal antibody or a biologic therapy. Antibodies are proteins made naturally by the body's immune system that help identify and fight foreign substances. Scientists in a lab can make many copies of one kind of antibody. Because they are “clones” of a single type, these lab-made antibodies are described as “monoclonal antibodies.” In cancer therapy, monoclonal antibodies are used to target specific substances in the body that help cancer cells grow. Avastin targets a substance that is known to help tumors grow a new network of blood vessels. Because monoclonal antibodies (proteins) are made from natural substances in the body, they are also sometimes called biologic agents
Saturday...February 7th...2009
Linda and I have always been strong advocates of the Wings Seminars in Eugene Oregon.....http://www.wings-seminars.com/ We have committed a portion of our time/lives working with the seminars and encouraging others to sign up for the seminars....
Now, Wings owner and seminar facilitator Kris King, has written a book and has a new personal web site.....http://www.krisking.org/....
We encourage you to take a look....
Now, Wings owner and seminar facilitator Kris King, has written a book and has a new personal web site.....http://www.krisking.org/....
We encourage you to take a look....
Friday, February 6, 2009
Friday....February 6th...2009
Another BIG day......
Today started with not hearing anything from the oncologist's office...we called a couple of times...got the report onto the doctor's desk..but nothing. In his defense, it was a busy day. So, we got in the car and drove to his office....and were ushered into an exam room...and "wah-la" ...the doctor appeared. He came in and in his unique style reported NO CANCER IN THE BRAIN, STOMACH OR ADRENALS.....to put it mildly, we were much, much relieved.
After talking it through, he talked about what the chemo program would look like and said "let's start Monday".....we started to say "Nooooooooo" and he immediately said, "I'll be right back" and soon we were ushered up stairs to the new infusion room to begin the chemo process.
What is the deal? A minimum of 4 three week sessions.....with three anticancer drugs on day 1 of the first week....one anticancer drug on day 1 of the second week and then the third week off. so today was day 1 with three drugs infused into Linda by IV.....the other "day1's" will be February 27, March 20 and April 10. At the end of that time, the sessions will stop, continue or a oral anticancer drug provided...that decision will be made at the end of the 4th session.
The drugs: Carboplatin, Gemzar and Avastin. Avastin is also the drug given at the beginning of the second week. It is particularly interesting in the fact that it is a new type of anticancer drug....it is a "targeted " drug which which halts blood vessel development in cancer tumors which are so critical to the growth of the cancer......remember cancer is growth (cell division) out of control, robbing the normal cells of nutrients..ie "life".
So that's about it..we have to be very much aware of nausea, nutrition, and other side effects. Linda has nausea medications, etc. etc.
More as things unfold.....
ps..we were to leave on a cruise to the Caribbean Sunday...and here we are in Oregon..the good news is we were able to "sell" our cabin and got most of our money back through some quick action today....now we are focused on selling our Daytona 500 tickets and our George Jones concert tickets (both in Florida if you are interested!).
Today started with not hearing anything from the oncologist's office...we called a couple of times...got the report onto the doctor's desk..but nothing. In his defense, it was a busy day. So, we got in the car and drove to his office....and were ushered into an exam room...and "wah-la" ...the doctor appeared. He came in and in his unique style reported NO CANCER IN THE BRAIN, STOMACH OR ADRENALS.....to put it mildly, we were much, much relieved.
After talking it through, he talked about what the chemo program would look like and said "let's start Monday".....we started to say "Nooooooooo" and he immediately said, "I'll be right back" and soon we were ushered up stairs to the new infusion room to begin the chemo process.
What is the deal? A minimum of 4 three week sessions.....with three anticancer drugs on day 1 of the first week....one anticancer drug on day 1 of the second week and then the third week off. so today was day 1 with three drugs infused into Linda by IV.....the other "day1's" will be February 27, March 20 and April 10. At the end of that time, the sessions will stop, continue or a oral anticancer drug provided...that decision will be made at the end of the 4th session.
The drugs: Carboplatin, Gemzar and Avastin. Avastin is also the drug given at the beginning of the second week. It is particularly interesting in the fact that it is a new type of anticancer drug....it is a "targeted " drug which which halts blood vessel development in cancer tumors which are so critical to the growth of the cancer......remember cancer is growth (cell division) out of control, robbing the normal cells of nutrients..ie "life".
So that's about it..we have to be very much aware of nausea, nutrition, and other side effects. Linda has nausea medications, etc. etc.
More as things unfold.....
ps..we were to leave on a cruise to the Caribbean Sunday...and here we are in Oregon..the good news is we were able to "sell" our cabin and got most of our money back through some quick action today....now we are focused on selling our Daytona 500 tickets and our George Jones concert tickets (both in Florida if you are interested!).
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Thursday....February 5th...2009
A long day today.......
Today we met with the oncologist to begin treatment. He clarified what the scan results were.....new small cancerous masses (less than 1 cm and called micro...) in the right lung.....4 enlarged cancerous nodes under the right arm......and increase in mass in left lung meaning the cancer wasn't eradicated. He said Linda was in stage IV lung cancer. His efforts would be to control (new word) the cancer. There is no longer a "cure". The treatment would be four (4) three week sessions with a large dose of chemo the first day of the first week...a smaller dose the first day of the second week and then the third week off. At the end of the four session, they would either stop the chemo and wait for the cancer to reappear...continue the chemo in the same fashion or .......use an innovative pill for chemo...which can be done for non smokers only.....all would depend on how things look after the four sessions.
Then.....
After hearing Linda describe her nausea , he decided to get to the bottom of things by putting off the chemo session until tomorrow and have a CT scan done of the stomach and also a MRI of the brain....which is where we went next and finished up early this evening.
Tomorrow morning Linda is to learn of the results of the scan and MRI ...and then will proceed with the plan A or a new plan B.
The oncologist attributed the cough and the pleuritic pain to the growing mass in the left lung.
Linda is pretty worn out...but ready to get started. We met with the ladies in the hospital support center who have been a blessing to us in the past, to continue the mental and emotional support programs. We talked about the experiences yesterday in getting to Oregon and how fear showed up in our "cancer journey" and how we were able to have humor as part of the experience now. Linda and I had an in depth discussion this morning about much the same and have a solid connection for getting started on this phase of our lives.
More tomorrow......
Today we met with the oncologist to begin treatment. He clarified what the scan results were.....new small cancerous masses (less than 1 cm and called micro...) in the right lung.....4 enlarged cancerous nodes under the right arm......and increase in mass in left lung meaning the cancer wasn't eradicated. He said Linda was in stage IV lung cancer. His efforts would be to control (new word) the cancer. There is no longer a "cure". The treatment would be four (4) three week sessions with a large dose of chemo the first day of the first week...a smaller dose the first day of the second week and then the third week off. At the end of the four session, they would either stop the chemo and wait for the cancer to reappear...continue the chemo in the same fashion or .......use an innovative pill for chemo...which can be done for non smokers only.....all would depend on how things look after the four sessions.
Then.....
After hearing Linda describe her nausea , he decided to get to the bottom of things by putting off the chemo session until tomorrow and have a CT scan done of the stomach and also a MRI of the brain....which is where we went next and finished up early this evening.
Tomorrow morning Linda is to learn of the results of the scan and MRI ...and then will proceed with the plan A or a new plan B.
The oncologist attributed the cough and the pleuritic pain to the growing mass in the left lung.
Linda is pretty worn out...but ready to get started. We met with the ladies in the hospital support center who have been a blessing to us in the past, to continue the mental and emotional support programs. We talked about the experiences yesterday in getting to Oregon and how fear showed up in our "cancer journey" and how we were able to have humor as part of the experience now. Linda and I had an in depth discussion this morning about much the same and have a solid connection for getting started on this phase of our lives.
More tomorrow......
Thursday.....February 5th...2009
Is it early or is it late? ......we just got here..home in Oregon..from the airport......
"You ain't gonna believe what happened!"
Linda-lou, now known as the "Drama Queen...scratch that...the "Dynamic Drama Queen" outdid herself today.....
Please understand what was very serious at the time....after all was said and done.....was something we could look back on and laugh a bit.
We got up very early today in Florida for a all day flight back to Oregon by way of Houston. when we got to the airport, Linda persisted in tussling with the luggage...rocked back on her heels.....hit her Butt hard on the cement...fell backwards and hit her back...luckily it stopped there and no head hit the pavement....but she was very sore...aggravating the pleuritic problems she's been having. This affair should have been my first clue.
She then made it into the airport..checked in..went through security..worked on a crossword puzzle..loaded on the airplane...conversed with the gentleman beside her...and..and....end of story?????? NOPE. Linda had something bigger in mind.
Linda had been careful not to turn on the air overhead because of contamination possibilities.....also she wore a mask because of her low immunity.
We taxied out to the runway and started down the runway for takeoff....It was dark inside the aircraft and all of a sudden I had a sense something was wrong with Linda. I asked her if she was ok and she mumbled something and was quite incoherent....and then she went silent and her head dropped...she was unconscious...I wasn't able to get anything out of her..I couldn't see what was going on..so I rang the flight attendant button.....an attendant came scurrying back and I said "she's unconscious".....he said "shall we abort"..ie the take off...mind you we are now about 100 mph hurtling down the runway...I said "WHAT?"...he said he had to get back to his seat.
The good news is Linda came back around and had no memory of the takeoff etc. etc. ...there happened to be a doctor in the seat behind her who came and sat with her, checking her blood pressure, pulse, and all. The flight attendant came back apologizing for having to leave but was required to be in his seat for take off.
Over the two hours to Houston, Linda was given large quantities of water as her blood pressure was low....also lots of orange juice...the nice lady doctor stayed with her and Linda was back to her "old self". It was decided that the fainting spell was cause by a multitude of factors, including the low blood pressure, no air because of the vents turned off....rebreathing CO2 because of the mask and later we were to learn she had low blood sugar ( but I'm getting ahead of myself). Also lack of sleep due to an early flight, cancer, plueritic pain...and who knows what else. They had Linda on a low flow of O2 to assist her...which is quite common practice.
Anyway things are going well as we get to Houston...THEN..as we turn towards the gate, I immediately notice several emergency vehicles...ambulance....fire truck...rescue truck.....lots of flashing red lights....now I'm no rocket scientist but 2 and 2 are 4....I said to Linda "I think those are for you".."no way" she said.....and at that moment an announcement was made in the airplane notifying all passengers to remain in their seats at the gate so EMT's could board and remove the "medical emergency" 2 plus 2 is still 4!
Six burly EMT's crowded onto the airplane to assist Miss Linda....and removed her carefully from the aircraft....they performed their system checks and all and found Linda to be in pretty good shape . Great! we thought as we had a tight connection for our next flight....but then Miss Continental Airlines showed up and informed us that she would have to check with the pilot of our connecting flight to see if he wanted to take us or whether Linda needed to be checked out by a doctor (read hospital and emergency room)....also if there would be the need for Linda to be on O2 all the way to Oregon....
We knew we were in trouble when Miss Continental said in her cell phone..."I don't recommend allowing her to fly"....of course we knew the saga was not over...and of course we were told "no flying without a doctor's ok"....of course, who's to blamb Continental...protecting themselves in this crazy "sue world".
So off to the hospital we went to be diagnosed as having a "fainting spell".....
We did get the permission slip to fly...as well as undoubtedly a big..big bill......but it was assuring to get a doctor to say all was ok...as had the EMT's etc.
One problem..the next flight was 6 hours away...so we had a long long wait in the airport as well as a late late drive home.
This was a serious situation but you would have had to have been there to have heard the flight attendant say "shall we abort" (I mean, how many fields would we have plowed through before we would have come to a stop)....and then all those red flashing lights..for Miss Linda.....priceless. .
Tomorrow Linda's appointment is at 1 pm....we will want to get a full briefing on what is going on with the cancer recurrence...what the chemo program will be..how to deal with the nausea Linda is experiencing....how to stabilize the blood pressure.....which has been a constant problem when the cancer and treatment is involved...as well as several other questions we have...
"You ain't gonna believe what happened!"
Linda-lou, now known as the "Drama Queen...scratch that...the "Dynamic Drama Queen" outdid herself today.....
Please understand what was very serious at the time....after all was said and done.....was something we could look back on and laugh a bit.
We got up very early today in Florida for a all day flight back to Oregon by way of Houston. when we got to the airport, Linda persisted in tussling with the luggage...rocked back on her heels.....hit her Butt hard on the cement...fell backwards and hit her back...luckily it stopped there and no head hit the pavement....but she was very sore...aggravating the pleuritic problems she's been having. This affair should have been my first clue.
She then made it into the airport..checked in..went through security..worked on a crossword puzzle..loaded on the airplane...conversed with the gentleman beside her...and..and....end of story?????? NOPE. Linda had something bigger in mind.
Linda had been careful not to turn on the air overhead because of contamination possibilities.....also she wore a mask because of her low immunity.
We taxied out to the runway and started down the runway for takeoff....It was dark inside the aircraft and all of a sudden I had a sense something was wrong with Linda. I asked her if she was ok and she mumbled something and was quite incoherent....and then she went silent and her head dropped...she was unconscious...I wasn't able to get anything out of her..I couldn't see what was going on..so I rang the flight attendant button.....an attendant came scurrying back and I said "she's unconscious".....he said "shall we abort"..ie the take off...mind you we are now about 100 mph hurtling down the runway...I said "WHAT?"...he said he had to get back to his seat.
The good news is Linda came back around and had no memory of the takeoff etc. etc. ...there happened to be a doctor in the seat behind her who came and sat with her, checking her blood pressure, pulse, and all. The flight attendant came back apologizing for having to leave but was required to be in his seat for take off.
Over the two hours to Houston, Linda was given large quantities of water as her blood pressure was low....also lots of orange juice...the nice lady doctor stayed with her and Linda was back to her "old self". It was decided that the fainting spell was cause by a multitude of factors, including the low blood pressure, no air because of the vents turned off....rebreathing CO2 because of the mask and later we were to learn she had low blood sugar ( but I'm getting ahead of myself). Also lack of sleep due to an early flight, cancer, plueritic pain...and who knows what else. They had Linda on a low flow of O2 to assist her...which is quite common practice.
Anyway things are going well as we get to Houston...THEN..as we turn towards the gate, I immediately notice several emergency vehicles...ambulance....fire truck...rescue truck.....lots of flashing red lights....now I'm no rocket scientist but 2 and 2 are 4....I said to Linda "I think those are for you".."no way" she said.....and at that moment an announcement was made in the airplane notifying all passengers to remain in their seats at the gate so EMT's could board and remove the "medical emergency" 2 plus 2 is still 4!
Six burly EMT's crowded onto the airplane to assist Miss Linda....and removed her carefully from the aircraft....they performed their system checks and all and found Linda to be in pretty good shape . Great! we thought as we had a tight connection for our next flight....but then Miss Continental Airlines showed up and informed us that she would have to check with the pilot of our connecting flight to see if he wanted to take us or whether Linda needed to be checked out by a doctor (read hospital and emergency room)....also if there would be the need for Linda to be on O2 all the way to Oregon....
We knew we were in trouble when Miss Continental said in her cell phone..."I don't recommend allowing her to fly"....of course we knew the saga was not over...and of course we were told "no flying without a doctor's ok"....of course, who's to blamb Continental...protecting themselves in this crazy "sue world".
So off to the hospital we went to be diagnosed as having a "fainting spell".....
We did get the permission slip to fly...as well as undoubtedly a big..big bill......but it was assuring to get a doctor to say all was ok...as had the EMT's etc.
One problem..the next flight was 6 hours away...so we had a long long wait in the airport as well as a late late drive home.
This was a serious situation but you would have had to have been there to have heard the flight attendant say "shall we abort" (I mean, how many fields would we have plowed through before we would have come to a stop)....and then all those red flashing lights..for Miss Linda.....priceless. .
Tomorrow Linda's appointment is at 1 pm....we will want to get a full briefing on what is going on with the cancer recurrence...what the chemo program will be..how to deal with the nausea Linda is experiencing....how to stabilize the blood pressure.....which has been a constant problem when the cancer and treatment is involved...as well as several other questions we have...
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Tuesday...February 3rd....2008
In 24 hours we board the plane for the trip back to Oregon.....everything is in place...Linda begins treatment 9 am on Thursday.....we pick up the meds today to help her in her travel. the oncology folks in Oregon have been super getting all in place.
The pulmonologist called yesterday and explained to Linda he hadn't called because he wanted to see the scan first....he was very suprised Linda had already discussed everything with her oncologist and everything was ready to go for treatment in Oregon. Brother Darron is picking up a disc of the scan for us to take back to Oregon...from the diagnostics clinic .....after his golf game this morning.
We have everything we are taking back to Oregon in one palce....will pack today and clean the house....tickets are printed....
The pulmonologist called yesterday and explained to Linda he hadn't called because he wanted to see the scan first....he was very suprised Linda had already discussed everything with her oncologist and everything was ready to go for treatment in Oregon. Brother Darron is picking up a disc of the scan for us to take back to Oregon...from the diagnostics clinic .....after his golf game this morning.
We have everything we are taking back to Oregon in one palce....will pack today and clean the house....tickets are printed....
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Sunday....February 1st....2009
Not anything new to report.....Linda and Dave went around and visited several friends to say "good-bye" today.....Linda is now napping.....it doesn't take much to tire her out these days.
Linda's very concerned as when the cancer was first discovered a year and a half ago, she felt fine...with a pesky cough......she always said the treatment made her sick not the cancer...and that was a relieving thought. Now she doesn't feel good...the cancer is making her feel sick and the treatment will make her sick also.
The comment sections have been inspiring to her......we say that over and over...even above emails...she takes inspiration from the comments....you look at the blog to see how she's doing...she looks at the blog for the comments....keep them coming...they are good therapy.
We are tidying up around here....finishing a few projects...we fly out early Wednesday and arrive in Portland at 11:30 PDT. All rides have been worked out and we should have our car and heading to Sisters in the afternoon.
Dave
Linda's very concerned as when the cancer was first discovered a year and a half ago, she felt fine...with a pesky cough......she always said the treatment made her sick not the cancer...and that was a relieving thought. Now she doesn't feel good...the cancer is making her feel sick and the treatment will make her sick also.
The comment sections have been inspiring to her......we say that over and over...even above emails...she takes inspiration from the comments....you look at the blog to see how she's doing...she looks at the blog for the comments....keep them coming...they are good therapy.
We are tidying up around here....finishing a few projects...we fly out early Wednesday and arrive in Portland at 11:30 PDT. All rides have been worked out and we should have our car and heading to Sisters in the afternoon.
Dave
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