18 nov Sunday
YAHOO!YAHOO!YAHOO!
TECHNIQUE: Multidetector row CT volumetric acquisition was performed through the chest, abdomen and pelvis without intravenous contrast. Targeted CT protocols using this patient's history and dose modulation techniques based on this patient's anatomy were employed to minimize radiation exposure. Image post-processing was performed in the axial and coronal planes.
Study ResultImpression
No evidence of residual, recurrent or metastatic disease.
YAHOO!YAHOO!YAHOO!
TECHNIQUE: Multidetector row CT volumetric acquisition was performed through the chest, abdomen and pelvis without intravenous contrast. Targeted CT protocols using this patient's history and dose modulation techniques based on this patient's anatomy were employed to minimize radiation exposure. Image post-processing was performed in the axial and coronal planes.
Study ResultImpression
No evidence of residual, recurrent or metastatic disease.
19 sept Wed
I went to the doctors yesterday and everything seems to be about the same as last time so there's no increase in possibility of the cancer showing up right now and he's going to check again next month. While I am pleased that the cancer is not showing up again he cautioned me that it could come back at any time so I have to keep that in mind. I am hoping that I can continue doing my exercises even though they appear to be getting more difficult to perform, I will have to wait and see. I thank all of you who continue to check up on my progress and it means a lot to me thank you so much.
I went to the doctors yesterday and everything seems to be about the same as last time so there's no increase in possibility of the cancer showing up right now and he's going to check again next month. While I am pleased that the cancer is not showing up again he cautioned me that it could come back at any time so I have to keep that in mind. I am hoping that I can continue doing my exercises even though they appear to be getting more difficult to perform, I will have to wait and see. I thank all of you who continue to check up on my progress and it means a lot to me thank you so much.
14 Aug Tues
I went to the doctor's today he says that my blood work is perfect and he doesn't see any reason to take all
the pictures at with x-rays just to see if there's something there when everything appears to be normal. I'm feeling good and I don't see any reason that I've got anything to be afraid of so for right now we're just going to let it go for another month. I still have trouble from the stroke with increasing my shaking. I still have most of my trouble trying to walk my feet dont work right. I am doing my exercises every second day and it is helping me. I'm getting a little bit stronger each time. I'm trying to increase my exercises a little bit each week but I'm not being very good about it. Maybe when I get some more time or the weather cools off I can do better. It's been so hot why I certainly don't want to do any outside walking. Maybe I ought to go down and join a gym.
I went to the doctor's today he says that my blood work is perfect and he doesn't see any reason to take all
the pictures at with x-rays just to see if there's something there when everything appears to be normal. I'm feeling good and I don't see any reason that I've got anything to be afraid of so for right now we're just going to let it go for another month. I still have trouble from the stroke with increasing my shaking. I still have most of my trouble trying to walk my feet dont work right. I am doing my exercises every second day and it is helping me. I'm getting a little bit stronger each time. I'm trying to increase my exercises a little bit each week but I'm not being very good about it. Maybe when I get some more time or the weather cools off I can do better. It's been so hot why I certainly don't want to do any outside walking. Maybe I ought to go down and join a gym.
8 Aug
Going to see doctor next week
Going to see doctor next week
June 17 Sunday
A Few weeks ago I had 4 small strokes and spent a week in the hospital. My speech is affected and so is my typing.
It could take 6 months to fix. it took me 7 min to type this.
A Few weeks ago I had 4 small strokes and spent a week in the hospital. My speech is affected and so is my typing.
It could take 6 months to fix. it took me 7 min to type this.
Sunday 20 May 2018
We just returned from our trip to FL and CA and I am quite behind in my tasks. We had a great time at our Squadron Reunion and our visit to Santa Rosa CA. The travel was a pain but visiting was just great.
Last Friday my office visit went well with no problems. The Dr. ordered more cancer pills and I should have them by Tuesday. Then I continue with 21 days of pills followed by two weeks off. These drugs are holding the cancer growth down so I don't mind some itching if I have to endure it. two weeks off will help me also.
I don't anticipate any further updates for five weeks.
Some pictures are at 34469rg.weebly.com and jeannephotos.weebly.com
Monday April 9 2018,
Kind of good news again, I had the scan today and my cancer has not increased in size at all. That is good news because I am taking only 5 mg and a normal dose is 15 to 25 mg. I still get a reaction and get the rash back but by taking the steroids I can hold the itching down to a tolerating dose. I really hate the itching but it is a small price to pay
for keeping the cancer away. Perhaps as time goes on I can hope the cancer will shrink and eventually go away.
I start a new pill series on Wednesday and it will continue until lust before we leave for our 34469 FG reunion in Fort Walton Beach. We will be stopping by to visit old friends in Panama City for two days before going to the reunion. After the reunion we will head for California for four or five days to visit the family out there.
Thanks for checking in.
Tuesday March 24th
Today I had a Cardiology appointment and it went just great. He said that everything was just fine and in fact I don't have to come back for a full year. So look for a new update in a couple of weeks
Tuesday 13 March
Yesterday we met with my oncologist and things are about the same. I will recieve another 21 days of pills on Friday and will start taking them for three weeks. I will have lots of prednisone on hand as we are sure that the rash will come back. We hope the sooner we catch it the less severe it will be.
When the 21 days are complete I will get another scan to see how the lymph nodes are doing. I hope they have shrunk or at least have not increased in size.
So not anything to report until we get the scan results.
As an aside, we are in a huge snowstorm, expecting up to two feet of snow. This is the heavy wet snow and hard to manage. Come on spring!
Tuesday 20 February
Darn...My rash has returned and I am back to scratching all the time. I find some relief by using Absorbine Junior which stings for a few moments but then masks the itch for about ten-15 minutes. It is very difficult to sleep.
I am back on a heavy routine of steroids (no Olympics for me) and this should eventually get the rash out about the same time as I end this cycle of cancer drugs. Then one week off before starting yet another 21 day cycle.
We just returned from our trip to FL and CA and I am quite behind in my tasks. We had a great time at our Squadron Reunion and our visit to Santa Rosa CA. The travel was a pain but visiting was just great.
Last Friday my office visit went well with no problems. The Dr. ordered more cancer pills and I should have them by Tuesday. Then I continue with 21 days of pills followed by two weeks off. These drugs are holding the cancer growth down so I don't mind some itching if I have to endure it. two weeks off will help me also.
I don't anticipate any further updates for five weeks.
Some pictures are at 34469rg.weebly.com and jeannephotos.weebly.com
Monday April 9 2018,
Kind of good news again, I had the scan today and my cancer has not increased in size at all. That is good news because I am taking only 5 mg and a normal dose is 15 to 25 mg. I still get a reaction and get the rash back but by taking the steroids I can hold the itching down to a tolerating dose. I really hate the itching but it is a small price to pay
for keeping the cancer away. Perhaps as time goes on I can hope the cancer will shrink and eventually go away.
I start a new pill series on Wednesday and it will continue until lust before we leave for our 34469 FG reunion in Fort Walton Beach. We will be stopping by to visit old friends in Panama City for two days before going to the reunion. After the reunion we will head for California for four or five days to visit the family out there.
Thanks for checking in.
Tuesday March 24th
Today I had a Cardiology appointment and it went just great. He said that everything was just fine and in fact I don't have to come back for a full year. So look for a new update in a couple of weeks
Tuesday 13 March
Yesterday we met with my oncologist and things are about the same. I will recieve another 21 days of pills on Friday and will start taking them for three weeks. I will have lots of prednisone on hand as we are sure that the rash will come back. We hope the sooner we catch it the less severe it will be.
When the 21 days are complete I will get another scan to see how the lymph nodes are doing. I hope they have shrunk or at least have not increased in size.
So not anything to report until we get the scan results.
As an aside, we are in a huge snowstorm, expecting up to two feet of snow. This is the heavy wet snow and hard to manage. Come on spring!
Tuesday 20 February
Darn...My rash has returned and I am back to scratching all the time. I find some relief by using Absorbine Junior which stings for a few moments but then masks the itch for about ten-15 minutes. It is very difficult to sleep.
I am back on a heavy routine of steroids (no Olympics for me) and this should eventually get the rash out about the same time as I end this cycle of cancer drugs. Then one week off before starting yet another 21 day cycle.
Thursday 13 February
I started my next round of 21 pills yesterday with hopes that the rash will not return. If it does I have the steroids at the ready.
Not much else to relate. I also hope I don't lose my strength
I started my next round of 21 pills yesterday with hopes that the rash will not return. If it does I have the steroids at the ready.
Not much else to relate. I also hope I don't lose my strength
Monday 5 February 2018
My doctors visit today went very well. The steroids have almost ended the rash and my blood work shows no sign of infection. I have doubled my exercise routine and can now do 100 repetitions of each exercise. I can even feel biceps again! (although quite weak) but I am happy.
He has postponed my next visit to give me another week without the medication and that is great news. He may also delay the next CAT scan for two or three months.
I hope I can continue to feel well enough to keep on exercising.
I will probably update again in a week.
My doctors visit today went very well. The steroids have almost ended the rash and my blood work shows no sign of infection. I have doubled my exercise routine and can now do 100 repetitions of each exercise. I can even feel biceps again! (although quite weak) but I am happy.
He has postponed my next visit to give me another week without the medication and that is great news. He may also delay the next CAT scan for two or three months.
I hope I can continue to feel well enough to keep on exercising.
I will probably update again in a week.
Saturday 20 January
Darn! My rash has returned and I am once again miserable. The doctor has put me on huge doses of steroids again to fight the problem, but I hate that solution. There are many adverse affects of the drug and I am always hungry causing me to gain weight. Most people lose weight because of cancer, but not me!
My next appointment with the doctor to see if I need a CAT scan to see if my medication is still working is the 5th of Feb.
I am pleased to report that this freezing storm has abated. No more snow and cold for a few weeks.
Darn! My rash has returned and I am once again miserable. The doctor has put me on huge doses of steroids again to fight the problem, but I hate that solution. There are many adverse affects of the drug and I am always hungry causing me to gain weight. Most people lose weight because of cancer, but not me!
My next appointment with the doctor to see if I need a CAT scan to see if my medication is still working is the 5th of Feb.
I am pleased to report that this freezing storm has abated. No more snow and cold for a few weeks.
Thursday 4 Jan
Good morning friends. Today we are having a huge blizzard and we anticipate a power outage at any time. This is a good day to stay inside and off the roads! Freezing temperatures and 60 mph winds.
Yesterday I had a CAT scan which is essentially the same as last month and since I am not having any adverse effects I will start another 21 day round of treatments in a couple of days. The steroids will be at the ready if my rash returns. (I can barely see across the street in the blowing snow) My blood work is OK which is a good sign and I will not have to return for another scan until early February.
As long as this medication is working I will stay on it, but when it starts to fail I will have to find something else. Perhaps I could remain on this for many months (hope).
I won't have anything to report unless my condition changes. If so, I will update right away.
Until next time...
Good morning friends. Today we are having a huge blizzard and we anticipate a power outage at any time. This is a good day to stay inside and off the roads! Freezing temperatures and 60 mph winds.
Yesterday I had a CAT scan which is essentially the same as last month and since I am not having any adverse effects I will start another 21 day round of treatments in a couple of days. The steroids will be at the ready if my rash returns. (I can barely see across the street in the blowing snow) My blood work is OK which is a good sign and I will not have to return for another scan until early February.
As long as this medication is working I will stay on it, but when it starts to fail I will have to find something else. Perhaps I could remain on this for many months (hope).
I won't have anything to report unless my condition changes. If so, I will update right away.
Until next time...
Tuesday 12 Dec
No big changes from my last visit so we will continue on with the cancer medications until the 6th of January. At that time I will get another CAT scan to look for changes. If things look about the same or are only getting slightly worse he may add another medication which may give some extra boost.
My current medication typically stops working around six months which is where I am now. However, it might work longer, as all patients can be different.
I have not had trouble with the rash again but I am getting very tired. I have lost about 20% of my strength which I monitor by the number of reps I can do with my exercises. I take frequent naps, too. Walking up my very steep hill is getting more difficult and sometimes I can only go 10-15 seconds before I have to take a rest.
Thanks for checking in. Probably no more news until after the holidays.
Have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
No big changes from my last visit so we will continue on with the cancer medications until the 6th of January. At that time I will get another CAT scan to look for changes. If things look about the same or are only getting slightly worse he may add another medication which may give some extra boost.
My current medication typically stops working around six months which is where I am now. However, it might work longer, as all patients can be different.
I have not had trouble with the rash again but I am getting very tired. I have lost about 20% of my strength which I monitor by the number of reps I can do with my exercises. I take frequent naps, too. Walking up my very steep hill is getting more difficult and sometimes I can only go 10-15 seconds before I have to take a rest.
Thanks for checking in. Probably no more news until after the holidays.
Have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Friday 8 Dec
We got a call from my oncologist yesterday evening telling us my special blood results came back with NO increase in cancer. We can now have a happy holidays for sure. We are having our first snowstorm today so all seems right.
We go back to the doctor on Tuesday and may have a bit more info then. Hooray!
We got a call from my oncologist yesterday evening telling us my special blood results came back with NO increase in cancer. We can now have a happy holidays for sure. We are having our first snowstorm today so all seems right.
We go back to the doctor on Tuesday and may have a bit more info then. Hooray!
Tuesday 5 Dec
It has been quite a while since my last update. Today the Doctor checked over my blood work and said I have a few cancer markers in my blood this week. He sent me back for additional tests and will call me back next week when the results come in. Another marker of concern is that my muscles are getting weaker. He is not sure if this is due to the cancer or the cancer medications. I start a new 21 day treatment tomorrow and I should call him if I have a pronounced weakness. I will see him next Tuesday the 12th and see what might be going on.
Obviously we are concerned that the cancer has returned, but we shall hope for the best.
It has been quite a while since my last update. Today the Doctor checked over my blood work and said I have a few cancer markers in my blood this week. He sent me back for additional tests and will call me back next week when the results come in. Another marker of concern is that my muscles are getting weaker. He is not sure if this is due to the cancer or the cancer medications. I start a new 21 day treatment tomorrow and I should call him if I have a pronounced weakness. I will see him next Tuesday the 12th and see what might be going on.
Obviously we are concerned that the cancer has returned, but we shall hope for the best.
Friday 6 Nov
Today was a long day in the hospital for a CAT scan, getting my cancer port flushed, full blood exam and then a doctors appointment. My blood work is excellent and my cancer has not increased at all from the previous scan last month. Since the smaller dose of cancer drugs is tolerable I will just get another 21 day treatment and we will see how it goes. I'm feeling well, doing my exercises and looking forward to getting this cancer to stop growing. I'm really happy about my current condition. I wish I could get my neuropathy and tremors under control and I'd be almost fixed.
No more doctors for a month!
Today was a long day in the hospital for a CAT scan, getting my cancer port flushed, full blood exam and then a doctors appointment. My blood work is excellent and my cancer has not increased at all from the previous scan last month. Since the smaller dose of cancer drugs is tolerable I will just get another 21 day treatment and we will see how it goes. I'm feeling well, doing my exercises and looking forward to getting this cancer to stop growing. I'm really happy about my current condition. I wish I could get my neuropathy and tremors under control and I'd be almost fixed.
No more doctors for a month!
Friday 20 Sep
Today my rash has started to go down as the increased prednisone is finally kicking in. My blood work is still excellent and we will continue with the cancer drug at a low dose. On the 6th of Nov I am scheduled for another scan to see if my drugs are working. After we get the results we will make a new plan and until then I will just continue with my exercise routines.
Tomorrow morning my bike buddies are taking me out on a tandem bicycle they found to borrow. I am really looking forward to the ride and hope I can make it work. After the ride it is off to our local pub for a beer and lunch. Oh boy!
Today my rash has started to go down as the increased prednisone is finally kicking in. My blood work is still excellent and we will continue with the cancer drug at a low dose. On the 6th of Nov I am scheduled for another scan to see if my drugs are working. After we get the results we will make a new plan and until then I will just continue with my exercise routines.
Tomorrow morning my bike buddies are taking me out on a tandem bicycle they found to borrow. I am really looking forward to the ride and hope I can make it work. After the ride it is off to our local pub for a beer and lunch. Oh boy!
Tuesday 10 Sep
Another good meeting. My blood work is excellent and I feel fine. I start my next series of cancer meds tomorrow for 21 days. At the end I will have another CAT scan to check progress.
Yesterday I did my exercises then walked to the top of our very steep hill and finally rode my indoor cycle for 45 minutes. Great day!
Next doctors appointment in ten days.
Another good meeting. My blood work is excellent and I feel fine. I start my next series of cancer meds tomorrow for 21 days. At the end I will have another CAT scan to check progress.
Yesterday I did my exercises then walked to the top of our very steep hill and finally rode my indoor cycle for 45 minutes. Great day!
Next doctors appointment in ten days.
Friday 29th Sep
Good visit with the doctor. All my blood work is excellent and my rash is starting to get better. I finish this round of chemo tomorrow and then will have a week off until I start the next 21 day cycle. I continue to get better with my exercises and can now ride my indoor trainer for 45 minutes and I am very pleased about that. I don't return for a checkup until the 10th. I hope I can continue to improve.
Until the next time...
Good visit with the doctor. All my blood work is excellent and my rash is starting to get better. I finish this round of chemo tomorrow and then will have a week off until I start the next 21 day cycle. I continue to get better with my exercises and can now ride my indoor trainer for 45 minutes and I am very pleased about that. I don't return for a checkup until the 10th. I hope I can continue to improve.
Until the next time...
Tuesday 19 Sep
A good meeting with my doctor yesterday. My blood results were excellent and I feel great except for the itchy rash. As I have been on steroids for a long time I must start a new medicine to ward off common lung infections. I have been on it before and I HATE it. It looks like thick yellow paint and tastes horrible. I will have to take it every morning much to my dismay.
Yesterday I rode my indoor trainer for an hour, although slowly. I hope to pick up speed as I get stronger.
My rash seems very slightly better today! I hope it continues to get better.
I return for a checkup on Friday the 29th.
A good meeting with my doctor yesterday. My blood results were excellent and I feel great except for the itchy rash. As I have been on steroids for a long time I must start a new medicine to ward off common lung infections. I have been on it before and I HATE it. It looks like thick yellow paint and tastes horrible. I will have to take it every morning much to my dismay.
Yesterday I rode my indoor trainer for an hour, although slowly. I hope to pick up speed as I get stronger.
My rash seems very slightly better today! I hope it continues to get better.
I return for a checkup on Friday the 29th.
Tuesday 12 Sept
Sorry too take so long for an update but I have had some bad problems. My rash has returned with a vengeance. I have been miserable with itching. click photo for full view
Sorry too take so long for an update but I have had some bad problems. My rash has returned with a vengeance. I have been miserable with itching. click photo for full view
Saturday 2 September
My next appointment is next Friday the 8th. I should start my next series of treatments but at a lower dose. I am feeling pretty good now after being off medications for over two weeks. I hope the lower dose helps this rash go away.
Nothing else to report.
My next appointment is next Friday the 8th. I should start my next series of treatments but at a lower dose. I am feeling pretty good now after being off medications for over two weeks. I hope the lower dose helps this rash go away.
Nothing else to report.
Tuesday August 22
Good News today. I had a CAT scan today to see how my lymph nodes are doing and the doctor says they have shrunk to almost nothing. It must be a combination of the new medication and the steroids but at any rate much better news. He will drop me down from 15mg to 5mg and will not start the new pills for two weeks so I can get stronger. We are very happy and I will try to get on my exercise routine a bit harder. Hooray!
Good News today. I had a CAT scan today to see how my lymph nodes are doing and the doctor says they have shrunk to almost nothing. It must be a combination of the new medication and the steroids but at any rate much better news. He will drop me down from 15mg to 5mg and will not start the new pills for two weeks so I can get stronger. We are very happy and I will try to get on my exercise routine a bit harder. Hooray!
Monday August 13
I have been having a couple of bad weeks. The new cancer pills have absolutely wiped me out and taken all my energy. I can't do anything and spend almost all my time in bed. To make things worse my body rash is back and I itch 247 I will have to get this cleared up before I go nuts. I don't see the doctor for another 8 days and I hope I can make it. I will also get my scan to see if the pills have worked at all.I hope so. I will try to post some pictures later.
I have been having a couple of bad weeks. The new cancer pills have absolutely wiped me out and taken all my energy. I can't do anything and spend almost all my time in bed. To make things worse my body rash is back and I itch 247 I will have to get this cleared up before I go nuts. I don't see the doctor for another 8 days and I hope I can make it. I will also get my scan to see if the pills have worked at all.I hope so. I will try to post some pictures later.
Friday July 28th
Not much to tell this week. I am tolerating the new medication OK and have just started another 21 day plan. The doctor wants to see me at the end and take body scans to see if the medication is working. Nothing to report until then.
Not much to tell this week. I am tolerating the new medication OK and have just started another 21 day plan. The doctor wants to see me at the end and take body scans to see if the medication is working. Nothing to report until then.
Friday July 14th
I have been taking prednisone (steroid) to hold my rash down and I am feeling better than ever before. I have increased all my exercise repetitions and have had no real soreness. I am tolerating the new cancer medicine with only this rash for side effects. Overall things seem OK.
On the other hand, the doctor does advise that the cancer will return whether in four months or a year or two, but it will be back. We discussed "Do not resuscitate" directions as I have had so many other problems like this recent seizure, blood clot, memory loss, etc. It's like living with an unexploded bomb. Until things get worse I will continue with as much as I can do and hope for the best.
I won't go back for two weeks and will update then.
I have been taking prednisone (steroid) to hold my rash down and I am feeling better than ever before. I have increased all my exercise repetitions and have had no real soreness. I am tolerating the new cancer medicine with only this rash for side effects. Overall things seem OK.
On the other hand, the doctor does advise that the cancer will return whether in four months or a year or two, but it will be back. We discussed "Do not resuscitate" directions as I have had so many other problems like this recent seizure, blood clot, memory loss, etc. It's like living with an unexploded bomb. Until things get worse I will continue with as much as I can do and hope for the best.
I won't go back for two weeks and will update then.
Friday June 30
On Tuesday I was having a drink with my son at their new house. I suddenly got very shaky and gave the drink to my son to avoid a spill. The next thing I remember I was waking up in the emergency room ICU. I had totally blacked out and was taken to the hospital in an ambulance where I have remained until last night. I have had numerous tests but with no definite cause found. The main good news is that I did not have a stroke but probably had a seizure. I will have to take anti-seizure medication from now on.
My oncologist wants me to continue taking the new chemo pill as it is the last cancer drug available. If this drug doesn't work I'm out of of options.
Wish me luck!
On Tuesday I was having a drink with my son at their new house. I suddenly got very shaky and gave the drink to my son to avoid a spill. The next thing I remember I was waking up in the emergency room ICU. I had totally blacked out and was taken to the hospital in an ambulance where I have remained until last night. I have had numerous tests but with no definite cause found. The main good news is that I did not have a stroke but probably had a seizure. I will have to take anti-seizure medication from now on.
My oncologist wants me to continue taking the new chemo pill as it is the last cancer drug available. If this drug doesn't work I'm out of of options.
Wish me luck!
Friday 23rd June
Today was my 3rd day on my new revimid medication. I suppose I am tolerating (it well, no stomach upset, etc, butI i am very shaky and off balance much more than usuall. I am really shaky and my tremors are more pronounced. I hope this doesn get any worse as my use continues. I will take the meds for 21 days, then have a week off, and then start again.
Today was my 3rd day on my new revimid medication. I suppose I am tolerating (it well, no stomach upset, etc, butI i am very shaky and off balance much more than usuall. I am really shaky and my tremors are more pronounced. I hope this doesn get any worse as my use continues. I will take the meds for 21 days, then have a week off, and then start again.
Friday June 9th
My blood work is excellent and I feel so much better now that I have been off chemo for almost three weeks. My nodes have shrunk a little but the doctor says it is probably caused by the prednisone I have been taking.
Next week I start on a new drug but it is in pill form. I take the pills once a day for three weeks and then have a week off. I will repeat that schedule three times. The main side effect are possible blood clots and we will have to watch that closely as I have already had a bad clot in my lungs before.
I don't go back for two weeks so no updates until after the 23rd.
My blood work is excellent and I feel so much better now that I have been off chemo for almost three weeks. My nodes have shrunk a little but the doctor says it is probably caused by the prednisone I have been taking.
Next week I start on a new drug but it is in pill form. I take the pills once a day for three weeks and then have a week off. I will repeat that schedule three times. The main side effect are possible blood clots and we will have to watch that closely as I have already had a bad clot in my lungs before.
I don't go back for two weeks so no updates until after the 23rd.
Friday June 2
No news today, unfortunately. The biopsy has not come back yet.
My doctor says he really wants to get the results so he will better know which treatments I need, so we'll have to wait.
On the other hand, it has been several weeks without chemo and I am really feeling better. I am walking faster and getting some of my "unused" muscles going again.
No news today, unfortunately. The biopsy has not come back yet.
My doctor says he really wants to get the results so he will better know which treatments I need, so we'll have to wait.
On the other hand, it has been several weeks without chemo and I am really feeling better. I am walking faster and getting some of my "unused" muscles going again.
Friday May 26th
When the doctor took out the node last time he gave me a few pain shots and cut it out. Today was a full scale operation with anesthetics and the whole nine yards. After they put me out I didn't know a thing until they were waking me up in the recovery room. Very easy for me. I was only in for a little more than three hours.
I don't have any pain right now and must keep it iced for a day or two.
Next Thursday I will have my visit to see if there are any results.
When the doctor took out the node last time he gave me a few pain shots and cut it out. Today was a full scale operation with anesthetics and the whole nine yards. After they put me out I didn't know a thing until they were waking me up in the recovery room. Very easy for me. I was only in for a little more than three hours.
I don't have any pain right now and must keep it iced for a day or two.
Next Thursday I will have my visit to see if there are any results.
Monday May 22nd
I was called to come in for my biopsy today so I went up to RI Hospital and the surgeon poked and prodded on my groin. He determined that the node was too deep and too close to my femoral artery so I have a new appointment in surgery for next Friday. No news until that is over.
I was called to come in for my biopsy today so I went up to RI Hospital and the surgeon poked and prodded on my groin. He determined that the node was too deep and too close to my femoral artery so I have a new appointment in surgery for next Friday. No news until that is over.
Friday May 19th,
Today's doctor visit shows the cancer is probably back, but slightly. To determine the next course of action he wants a lymph node removed from my groin and biopsied, hoping to get the actual disease and not a classification.
The surgical procedure should be some time this week.
Back to waiting
Today's doctor visit shows the cancer is probably back, but slightly. To determine the next course of action he wants a lymph node removed from my groin and biopsied, hoping to get the actual disease and not a classification.
The surgical procedure should be some time this week.
Back to waiting
Tuesday May 17th
Encouraging news.
This morning I received the results of my CAT scan yesterday and it shows some improvement. For instance, one tumor has reduced from 1.7cm to 1.4cm and there are no new sites.
I will see my doctor on Friday and he will explain my progress and next plan of action.
I will let you know the results.
Encouraging news.
This morning I received the results of my CAT scan yesterday and it shows some improvement. For instance, one tumor has reduced from 1.7cm to 1.4cm and there are no new sites.
I will see my doctor on Friday and he will explain my progress and next plan of action.
I will let you know the results.
Sunday May 7th,
Yesterday was the last round in this series of infusions before two weeks off for rest. Now we wait the two weeks and then have a CAT scan to see if this new medication is working. If it is. we can continue treatments, but if my tumors have not shown improvement, there is one medication left to try.
Getting into a trial after that would be almost impossible as the cut off age for trials is usually 75 which I will remain until January.
It is just now that some new side effects of this med are appearing. I am beginning to have itchy skin which has not been a problem before, but it is NOT like that horrible, horrible rash I had before. If this itch gets too bad I will have to quit using it.
Nothing much will happen for two weeks until I get the results of the scans or if the itch gets worse.
On Thursday Karen and I celebrated the 61st year since the day we met.
Monday, April 17th
Today was just a meeting with my oncologist to see how I am tolerating the new chemo drug. All is going well and aside from being tired, I am taking on the drug well.
I now have two full weeks off with no treatments and then return for another week of every day infusions. At the end of those I will get another CAT scan to check for tumors.
Therefore, nothing more to report for three weeks.
I am cleared to start physical training twice a week.
Today was just a meeting with my oncologist to see how I am tolerating the new chemo drug. All is going well and aside from being tired, I am taking on the drug well.
I now have two full weeks off with no treatments and then return for another week of every day infusions. At the end of those I will get another CAT scan to check for tumors.
Therefore, nothing more to report for three weeks.
I am cleared to start physical training twice a week.
Tuesday April 4th
Dear family and friends,
We have had such good news lately from my cardiologist and and my neurologist that we should have guessed something would come along to spoil things, and today that happened. My CT scan today shows the cancer is back and I will have to start a new treatment. Beginning Monday I will get a two hour infusion each day for a week. Then I will have two weeks off. I will repeat that cycle three times and then will have another CT scan to check progress.
We hope that the new treatments will work for me and I can make some progress but this is certainly a setback. But I am sure that all your support and prayers will continue to give us hope that this will be the magic bullets that will do the trick.
I will write again next Monday after treatments.
Thanks for checking in,
Dave
Dear family and friends,
We have had such good news lately from my cardiologist and and my neurologist that we should have guessed something would come along to spoil things, and today that happened. My CT scan today shows the cancer is back and I will have to start a new treatment. Beginning Monday I will get a two hour infusion each day for a week. Then I will have two weeks off. I will repeat that cycle three times and then will have another CT scan to check progress.
We hope that the new treatments will work for me and I can make some progress but this is certainly a setback. But I am sure that all your support and prayers will continue to give us hope that this will be the magic bullets that will do the trick.
I will write again next Monday after treatments.
Thanks for checking in,
Dave
Wednesday March 29th
Nothing new yesterday from the doctor. I need a chest x-ray to look for cancer nodes again. I will do that next week and we hope it will be clear. My blood work was all fine.
Nothing new yesterday from the doctor. I need a chest x-ray to look for cancer nodes again. I will do that next week and we hope it will be clear. My blood work was all fine.
Tuesday March 21st
Great news! Today was a visit with my cardiologist who looked at all my tests and said I am in great shape. I don't have to see him again for a year unless things change, so that is another large hurdle behind.
Yesterday I had my physical therapy appointment and I will have to start all over with my training. My muscles have atrophied so much that they are mostly useless. Even the smallest exercises are hard for me to do. I have been through this many times before and I am not looking forward to doing it again. But, I know I have to do it, so quit griping and get to work.
Next appointment is Monday the 27th with my oncologist. Thanks for checking in.
Great news! Today was a visit with my cardiologist who looked at all my tests and said I am in great shape. I don't have to see him again for a year unless things change, so that is another large hurdle behind.
Yesterday I had my physical therapy appointment and I will have to start all over with my training. My muscles have atrophied so much that they are mostly useless. Even the smallest exercises are hard for me to do. I have been through this many times before and I am not looking forward to doing it again. But, I know I have to do it, so quit griping and get to work.
Next appointment is Monday the 27th with my oncologist. Thanks for checking in.
Wednesday March 8th
Yesterday was my neurology appointment which gave me the great news that I do not have Parkinsons disease. Rather I have essential tremors which are bothersome but not fatal. I will just have to live with the shaking which strongly affects my use of fingers and hands. I can't pick up small items and using my smart phone is very difficult.
Yesterday I also received a five hour infusion of globulin fluids to boost my resistance. I hope the treatment works and helps me avoid more of the bronchitis and pneumonia. Today my bronchitis has very slightly improved with a bit less coughing.
Next appointment is for next Monday the 13th.
Yesterday was my neurology appointment which gave me the great news that I do not have Parkinsons disease. Rather I have essential tremors which are bothersome but not fatal. I will just have to live with the shaking which strongly affects my use of fingers and hands. I can't pick up small items and using my smart phone is very difficult.
Yesterday I also received a five hour infusion of globulin fluids to boost my resistance. I hope the treatment works and helps me avoid more of the bronchitis and pneumonia. Today my bronchitis has very slightly improved with a bit less coughing.
Next appointment is for next Monday the 13th.
Monday March 6th,
Over the last two weeks I have had a small case of pneumonia (six days in the hospital) and just as I was recovering from that I came down with a terrible case of bronchitis. I have been coughing constantly and cannot stop all week. I even have been coughing all night and am not able to get any sleep. Today is the first day I have had time between coughs to breathe for a couple of minutes. I have just felt miserable all the time.
It feels as if I have done 400 sit ups and torn my stomach muscles. Each cough gives me a searing pain.
Today we met with my cancer doctor and he wants to get me cured up from all my problems before starting in with more cancer treatments. Tomorrow I will get a five hour treatment of various globulin mixtures to try and cure the bronchitis.
Before those treatments begin I will see the neurologist to see why my tremors are getting worse. We suspect it could be Parkinsons and he will set me up for further tests. Just what I need...a new affliction!
All and all this has been a bad few weeks. I apologize for not communicating more, but I have just not had the strength.
Check back tomorrow (or Wednesday) and see what the neurologist has to say.
Over the last two weeks I have had a small case of pneumonia (six days in the hospital) and just as I was recovering from that I came down with a terrible case of bronchitis. I have been coughing constantly and cannot stop all week. I even have been coughing all night and am not able to get any sleep. Today is the first day I have had time between coughs to breathe for a couple of minutes. I have just felt miserable all the time.
It feels as if I have done 400 sit ups and torn my stomach muscles. Each cough gives me a searing pain.
Today we met with my cancer doctor and he wants to get me cured up from all my problems before starting in with more cancer treatments. Tomorrow I will get a five hour treatment of various globulin mixtures to try and cure the bronchitis.
Before those treatments begin I will see the neurologist to see why my tremors are getting worse. We suspect it could be Parkinsons and he will set me up for further tests. Just what I need...a new affliction!
All and all this has been a bad few weeks. I apologize for not communicating more, but I have just not had the strength.
Check back tomorrow (or Wednesday) and see what the neurologist has to say.
Wednesday February 8th
My cancer doctor is very pleased with the results of my latest chest scan. The areas of concern are noticeably smaller and show good improvement from the last scan. He now says I can take two weeks off to regain some strength before he decides if I need to start another chemical series of treatments.
I'm feeling better and have just started back with my physical training.
Next update in two weeks.
My cancer doctor is very pleased with the results of my latest chest scan. The areas of concern are noticeably smaller and show good improvement from the last scan. He now says I can take two weeks off to regain some strength before he decides if I need to start another chemical series of treatments.
I'm feeling better and have just started back with my physical training.
Next update in two weeks.
Monday January 30th
Todays visit to the Doctor gave some possible good news.
The biopsys all are negative, meaning I do not have any signs of infection. However, this may mean that I had a reaction to my new cancer drugs which caused all my problems. The doctor is now reluctant to continue with this drug.
The new plan is to return next Monday for another body scan and see how the cancer nodes are doing. If they have shrunk I will get another week off to continue getting stronger. Then, in another week I will go on another drug which is of the same class. Unfortunately, it requires five treatments in a row each at six hours per day which will not be convenient or easy.
After all those treatments will be another evaluation time to see the next plan of action.
Until next week I will just try to regain strength and hopefully feel better.
Dave
Todays visit to the Doctor gave some possible good news.
The biopsys all are negative, meaning I do not have any signs of infection. However, this may mean that I had a reaction to my new cancer drugs which caused all my problems. The doctor is now reluctant to continue with this drug.
The new plan is to return next Monday for another body scan and see how the cancer nodes are doing. If they have shrunk I will get another week off to continue getting stronger. Then, in another week I will go on another drug which is of the same class. Unfortunately, it requires five treatments in a row each at six hours per day which will not be convenient or easy.
After all those treatments will be another evaluation time to see the next plan of action.
Until next week I will just try to regain strength and hopefully feel better.
Dave
Monday 23 January
Doctors report for today is the biopsy results are not yet back but the plan is to continue with a week off chemo to let my pneumonia continue to heal. They do not know if the new chemo is causing the pneumonia or ii is a common type of infection. When the results return if it is the common pneumonia they will cure it and continue with my infusions as they have a 30% success rate. If not they will switch to another similar medicine which may or may not work as well.
My pneumonia is improving and I no longer have to wear the supplemental oxygen which is a great relief.
Next info after my followiwng appointment on Monday.
Dave
Doctors report for today is the biopsy results are not yet back but the plan is to continue with a week off chemo to let my pneumonia continue to heal. They do not know if the new chemo is causing the pneumonia or ii is a common type of infection. When the results return if it is the common pneumonia they will cure it and continue with my infusions as they have a 30% success rate. If not they will switch to another similar medicine which may or may not work as well.
My pneumonia is improving and I no longer have to wear the supplemental oxygen which is a great relief.
Next info after my followiwng appointment on Monday.
Dave
Saturday 21 January
Returned last night from 6 days in the hospital again. I have another bout of pneumonia and the doctors had trouble finding the cause. After a few days they decided to take a lung sample from deep in my lungs. During the procedure I ended up with a hole in my lung which must now heal. I have to use oxygen tanks all the time now which are a pain.
Tomorrow I have to start using visiting nurses to assist in my recovery.
With the problem I will have to skip another week of chemo. This is tough to do as it seems to be fighting the cancer well. On Monday we will meet with my doctor team to decide which way to go next.
Until then...
Dave
Returned last night from 6 days in the hospital again. I have another bout of pneumonia and the doctors had trouble finding the cause. After a few days they decided to take a lung sample from deep in my lungs. During the procedure I ended up with a hole in my lung which must now heal. I have to use oxygen tanks all the time now which are a pain.
Tomorrow I have to start using visiting nurses to assist in my recovery.
With the problem I will have to skip another week of chemo. This is tough to do as it seems to be fighting the cancer well. On Monday we will meet with my doctor team to decide which way to go next.
Until then...
Dave
Tuesdy
Back in hospita[ with pnwemonia
Back in hospita[ with pnwemonia
Saturday January 7th
GREAT NEWS,
Yesterday we met with my oncologist who told us the new treatments are WORKING! My nodes have shrunk quite a bit and we are all extremely optomistic that continued treatments are warrantied.
We will continue while trying to manage my extreme tiredness and lethargy. I can barely get out of bed to use the toilet and I am just wiped out when returning to bed. However, getting rid of the cancer seems more important right now.
I am exhausted just writing these few words so I must lie down again.
We expect a foot of snow today and watching the blizzard outside this is very possible.
Hooray!
Dave
GREAT NEWS,
Yesterday we met with my oncologist who told us the new treatments are WORKING! My nodes have shrunk quite a bit and we are all extremely optomistic that continued treatments are warrantied.
We will continue while trying to manage my extreme tiredness and lethargy. I can barely get out of bed to use the toilet and I am just wiped out when returning to bed. However, getting rid of the cancer seems more important right now.
I am exhausted just writing these few words so I must lie down again.
We expect a foot of snow today and watching the blizzard outside this is very possible.
Hooray!
Dave
Tuesday 27 December
Today we went in at 10:00 to get my infusion. We left at 1730 very tired.
Our doctor says my blood work is excellent and next week he will schedule a pet scan to see if there are any changes to my hot spots. I'm not sure when he will schedule the scan but check back next week.
I am finally feeling the side effects of my treatments and I have been extremely tired for the last three days.
Dave
Today we went in at 10:00 to get my infusion. We left at 1730 very tired.
Our doctor says my blood work is excellent and next week he will schedule a pet scan to see if there are any changes to my hot spots. I'm not sure when he will schedule the scan but check back next week.
I am finally feeling the side effects of my treatments and I have been extremely tired for the last three days.
Dave
Tuesday 20th December
Yesterday we went to the cancer center in Boston to meet with the head doctor about my condition. He was pleased that I have had almost zero side effects from the new treatments I am taking. He says we will take new pet scans after the next set of treatments in three weeks. If they show improvement they will continue treatments which could give me longer than my present 4-6 months estimate.
In the meantime he will have the results of the numerous biopsies taken from my extracted lymph node. The results will be compared with available trials for my type of cancer. He does not hold much promise for finding just the right one, however.
In the next week or so he will hold a meeting of his transplant team to discuss the advisability of giving me another stem cell transplant. As I am now 75, the maximum age for transplants, there are serious concerns, including a 20-30% death possibility. If approved I will have to decide if I want to take that chance and go through that awful procedure again. I'm not looking forward to doing that again but....
Another problem is that this would require a donor transplant. If my body rejects the cells I would have to take anti-rejecton drugs from then on (if I survive).
I am fortunate to feel well and have no pain as many do taking my present drugs. I hope I remain like this as I continue treatments.
Today I spent six hours to get my chemo treatment. Boring!
Thanks for checking in,
Dave
Yesterday we went to the cancer center in Boston to meet with the head doctor about my condition. He was pleased that I have had almost zero side effects from the new treatments I am taking. He says we will take new pet scans after the next set of treatments in three weeks. If they show improvement they will continue treatments which could give me longer than my present 4-6 months estimate.
In the meantime he will have the results of the numerous biopsies taken from my extracted lymph node. The results will be compared with available trials for my type of cancer. He does not hold much promise for finding just the right one, however.
In the next week or so he will hold a meeting of his transplant team to discuss the advisability of giving me another stem cell transplant. As I am now 75, the maximum age for transplants, there are serious concerns, including a 20-30% death possibility. If approved I will have to decide if I want to take that chance and go through that awful procedure again. I'm not looking forward to doing that again but....
Another problem is that this would require a donor transplant. If my body rejects the cells I would have to take anti-rejecton drugs from then on (if I survive).
I am fortunate to feel well and have no pain as many do taking my present drugs. I hope I remain like this as I continue treatments.
Today I spent six hours to get my chemo treatment. Boring!
Thanks for checking in,
Dave
Thursday 8th December
On Monday I had the third infusion and next week I have off. Then I start the next round of three Mondays in a row. I am tolerating these new chemicals well and have not even lost my hair.
I'm walking about 30 minutes each day except when I have PT days (once or twice a week) so I'm doing well, I think.
I won't have anything to report until after Tuesday the 20th of December when I complete my visit to Boston to see if there are any medical trials which I could get into. I have hopes they will have one suitable for me.
Thanks for checking in...
On Monday I had the third infusion and next week I have off. Then I start the next round of three Mondays in a row. I am tolerating these new chemicals well and have not even lost my hair.
I'm walking about 30 minutes each day except when I have PT days (once or twice a week) so I'm doing well, I think.
I won't have anything to report until after Tuesday the 20th of December when I complete my visit to Boston to see if there are any medical trials which I could get into. I have hopes they will have one suitable for me.
Thanks for checking in...
Tuesday November 28th
Dear Friends,
Yesterday I got my second round of the new drugs and today I still feel fine. The doctor is pleased that side effects are not bothering me and my infernal rash is finally gone. That rash nearly drove me crazy itching 24/7.
I will get another infusion Monday and then have the next week off. After that comes two more cycles of three Mondays and then a week off. At the end will be more CAT scans to see if the tumors have shrunk or at least not enlarged any more.
We go to Boston on the 19th to discuss any new medical trials that I might qualify for and I hope there is one available.
I am walking better each day and can now make my 30 minutes without much problem. Two days a week I have physical therapy for the rest of my muscles.
I will update if anything of interest crops up.
Thanks for checking in.
Dear Friends,
Yesterday I got my second round of the new drugs and today I still feel fine. The doctor is pleased that side effects are not bothering me and my infernal rash is finally gone. That rash nearly drove me crazy itching 24/7.
I will get another infusion Monday and then have the next week off. After that comes two more cycles of three Mondays and then a week off. At the end will be more CAT scans to see if the tumors have shrunk or at least not enlarged any more.
We go to Boston on the 19th to discuss any new medical trials that I might qualify for and I hope there is one available.
I am walking better each day and can now make my 30 minutes without much problem. Two days a week I have physical therapy for the rest of my muscles.
I will update if anything of interest crops up.
Thanks for checking in.
Here we go again!
Tuesday November 11
Dear Friends,
Last month I went to the doctors for my checkup. Upon examination he found several lymph nodes which had enlarged since my last visit. He scheduled me for cat scans of my chest, middle and groin for the next day.
When the scans returned thy showed not only enlargement but several new hot spots. He scheduled me for an immediate biopsy to remove the largest node and have it fully analyzed.
Today I got the biopsy results and they show the cancer has returned. Not what I wanted to hear, of course, but that is my current condition.
If we do nothing in new treatments I will have four to six months. However, with one of the several treatments available I can move to a 30% chance of extending that prognosis.
I will be starting a new medication which will require one day of drugs per week and then a week off. I will have two routines llike that and will then repeat the cat scans to see if there has been any improvement. If there is some improvement we will continue treatments and if not, we will move to another trial. There are some bad side effects with this, but I must continue.
They are also fully investigating my biopsy to see if there have been any unique drugs which would directly target the cancer I have. If so, they will start that procedure immediately.
I will update my progress every few weeks, so check back in if you wish.
Dave
Tuesday November 11
Dear Friends,
Last month I went to the doctors for my checkup. Upon examination he found several lymph nodes which had enlarged since my last visit. He scheduled me for cat scans of my chest, middle and groin for the next day.
When the scans returned thy showed not only enlargement but several new hot spots. He scheduled me for an immediate biopsy to remove the largest node and have it fully analyzed.
Today I got the biopsy results and they show the cancer has returned. Not what I wanted to hear, of course, but that is my current condition.
If we do nothing in new treatments I will have four to six months. However, with one of the several treatments available I can move to a 30% chance of extending that prognosis.
I will be starting a new medication which will require one day of drugs per week and then a week off. I will have two routines llike that and will then repeat the cat scans to see if there has been any improvement. If there is some improvement we will continue treatments and if not, we will move to another trial. There are some bad side effects with this, but I must continue.
They are also fully investigating my biopsy to see if there have been any unique drugs which would directly target the cancer I have. If so, they will start that procedure immediately.
I will update my progress every few weeks, so check back in if you wish.
Dave