Remission
Definition: noun
a temporary or permanent decrease or subsidence of manifestations of a disease.
b. a period during which such a decrease or subsidence occurs.
Praise God! I heard this word today. We got the results back today from the tests made last week and we were told Chemo Sabe has no cancer. We are in a state of shock. The same shock we had when we heard he was ill. He had 70% of the cancer in the beginning and now it is at 10%. All humans are at 10%, so he is normal. Remission
We also heard from a test we have been waiting on since the last week of May (Gene Ray), that the disease is not in his genes. His PET scan originally showed one lesion and today there is none. We still have to do the MRI next week which will tell of the result of the 27 lesions he had on his shoulders, spine, hip and neck.
The journey is not over. We still start another round of chemo July 8. The stem cell transplant will be about 2-3 weeks after that. Then another around of chemo around September or October with another transplant. We CAN DO this!! No step for a Stepper!
Tears of joy streamed down our face. We looked at each other and really couldn't express ourselves. Stunned!
We did have a fabulous weekend also. Got off to a very late start on Saturday after waiting for the storms to subside. Didn't get to go North. Cancelled the cabin reservations we had. We heard of a Purple Hull Pea festival in the lower part of the state we away we went. Lathered up with SPF 50 on the chrome dome.
We got down as far as Fordyce (two hours away) and took a break. I told Chemo Sabe of my knowledge about the weather in those parts for Sunday morning. Storms. So we headed west and north and ended up in Hot Springs (20 miles) from home. What the heck! Decided to spend the night. No rooms anywhere so we stayed at a resort. Parked the cycles and unpacked.
Took a three block walk up a spiral driveway to an Italian restaurant and was there for about two hours. We were grateful for the time it took to prepare our food because it stormed the whole time we were there. The restaurant overlooked the lake. We walked back in sprinkling rain, turned the heat up to 80, took a hot shower and crashed. Dinner was well worth it.
We are on NO meds this week. Nothing until the chemo starts back. Go ahead -- ask me why they are not starting chemo until July 8. Chemo Sabe told them how important his work was and that the holidays are rough --- so Big Doc agreed to wait a week.
Came home yesterday and the son and his friend had manicured the yard and our back woods. Well needed. It looks like a different yard. They take extremely good care of us. We don't know how to repay them so we will be planning a fish fry when the smoke settles.
Remission --- Doesn't to sound wonderful? Remission, Remission, Remission.
I found out late this afternoon my mom had eye surgery today. She didn't tell me because she felt like I had enough to deal us. Please pray for her speedy recovering. She is 82.
We are riding tonight. Going out to eat. Can't get enough of those bikes. I got new risers last week that bring my handlebars back closer to me. It is difficult for a 5 ft 4 in. person to sit up close to the tank to ride. Chemo Sabe has instructed me not to buy anything else for it. Probably because he wants to buy it himself! ha.
We are loved.. You love us. You have prayed for us continually. We heard through others that they have heard through others that Chemo Sabe is on so many prayer lists. I'm telling you -- he is around the whole --- and probably in the seven days.
WE ARE READY, GOD, to take what is before us. You have been so loving to us. You truly have not given us more than we can handle.
Thank you all again for what you do....
Love -- Pepper
Chemo Sabe
- ChemoSabe
- Benton, AR, United States
- Diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma-- May 2008
Monday, June 30, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Solace -- Word for the Day -- Thursday, June 26, 2008
Solace
DEFINITION: (verb) to comfort or console.
Lollipop, lollipop, oh lollipop -- Raise your hand if you remember that song! This is what Chemo Sabe did today for his bone marrow biopsy -- two lollipops plus a nerve medication. What a difference from the last biopsy. It did the trick to solace him. Of course, my coaching him to relax and just my presence made a big difference! ha
We were both exhausted when we got home this afternoon. We have been up since 4:30 a.m., arriving at UAMS at 6:00 for the PET scan. Took a nap and are ready for the night to end.
We have an appt again on Monday with the big dog. Will have the results of the biopsy then to let us know if the chemo did any good the last round. We pray the lesions will be fewer or gone all together. Remember -- he had 27. The marrow pulled out today was quite white and about an inch long, and about the size of spaghetti. The first two biopsies were bloody and longer. The aspiration took three tries today. And the collection was three vials. They used the same hole, but probed around into the tissue to different areas to make the pull. It is a suction method. The reason for the three tries is because the chemo cleaned out a lot of stuff so the samples were hard to collect.
The drugs really worked on him today. He was full of energy and wanted to trim the hedges in the flower beds. We have been needing them done for several weeks. I pulled up three stalks of poke salad that were taller than me (5 ft. 4-1/2 in.). I was so embarrassed. I am glad we are on a hill overlooking our neighbors.
Anyway, he did get out about 6:00 p.m. and took some hand trimmers and did two bushes. It was a struggle for him to stoop down and collect the clippings. He did it 'once'. With that we came in and sat down in the cool. I am glad he didn't get the gas trimmer out.
He has kept his good humor throughout the day. He had a very good nurse for the biopsy and she spoke to him the whole time. When the hole was cut he felt some pain so she stopped and gave him another shot of lidocaine. Solace. That made about the 5th shot.
We won't have another MRI until the growth factors he had last week wear off. What he has in him now would fool the test. We did find out that since he is non-secretory, he will have more biopsies more often that others. This means that he does not have the M protein. That means the MM does not show up in his kidneys or other organs, so the MM is harder to detect. Again, we thank the Lord for pushing him off the roof.
He is working tomorrow and then we are going to leave Saturday early to go to Mountain View with our friends. We have rented a cabin for one night and then back home on Sunday. I hope the travel doesn't wear him out because we do need to just get away and forget. He is already looking forward to it because he says his luggage with be 10 lb. lighter. No need for hair spray, hair dryer, brush, gel, razor, etc. I can attest to the fact that he carried more of that stuff than I. I even joked with him when this first came about that the rising gas prices didn't bother me because we would be saving that in hair spray. The first question he always asked in the past about lodging was if they had a hair dryer. You know, it doesn't matter how he fixes his hair -- it NEVER blows on the bike! ha So, we are enjoying the bald.
Oh... that brings me to Telly Savalas... Kojak... When I was a teenager, the Kojak series was quite popular. So was Peyton Place.. I made certain I had my homework and chores done before his serices came on. I even had a huge poster of him on my bedroom door. Gosh, my teenager dreams came true. Watching him suck on those lollipops today and looking at me with a twinkle in his eye brought Kojak back to me in real life. Solace.... "Who loves you baby?" -- Chemo Sabe does.
With that -- I am closing. I wish you all a blessed weekend and will give you an update on Monday.
Love --- Pepper (Tonto)
DEFINITION: (verb) to comfort or console.
Lollipop, lollipop, oh lollipop -- Raise your hand if you remember that song! This is what Chemo Sabe did today for his bone marrow biopsy -- two lollipops plus a nerve medication. What a difference from the last biopsy. It did the trick to solace him. Of course, my coaching him to relax and just my presence made a big difference! ha
We were both exhausted when we got home this afternoon. We have been up since 4:30 a.m., arriving at UAMS at 6:00 for the PET scan. Took a nap and are ready for the night to end.
We have an appt again on Monday with the big dog. Will have the results of the biopsy then to let us know if the chemo did any good the last round. We pray the lesions will be fewer or gone all together. Remember -- he had 27. The marrow pulled out today was quite white and about an inch long, and about the size of spaghetti. The first two biopsies were bloody and longer. The aspiration took three tries today. And the collection was three vials. They used the same hole, but probed around into the tissue to different areas to make the pull. It is a suction method. The reason for the three tries is because the chemo cleaned out a lot of stuff so the samples were hard to collect.
The drugs really worked on him today. He was full of energy and wanted to trim the hedges in the flower beds. We have been needing them done for several weeks. I pulled up three stalks of poke salad that were taller than me (5 ft. 4-1/2 in.). I was so embarrassed. I am glad we are on a hill overlooking our neighbors.
Anyway, he did get out about 6:00 p.m. and took some hand trimmers and did two bushes. It was a struggle for him to stoop down and collect the clippings. He did it 'once'. With that we came in and sat down in the cool. I am glad he didn't get the gas trimmer out.
He has kept his good humor throughout the day. He had a very good nurse for the biopsy and she spoke to him the whole time. When the hole was cut he felt some pain so she stopped and gave him another shot of lidocaine. Solace. That made about the 5th shot.
We won't have another MRI until the growth factors he had last week wear off. What he has in him now would fool the test. We did find out that since he is non-secretory, he will have more biopsies more often that others. This means that he does not have the M protein. That means the MM does not show up in his kidneys or other organs, so the MM is harder to detect. Again, we thank the Lord for pushing him off the roof.
He is working tomorrow and then we are going to leave Saturday early to go to Mountain View with our friends. We have rented a cabin for one night and then back home on Sunday. I hope the travel doesn't wear him out because we do need to just get away and forget. He is already looking forward to it because he says his luggage with be 10 lb. lighter. No need for hair spray, hair dryer, brush, gel, razor, etc. I can attest to the fact that he carried more of that stuff than I. I even joked with him when this first came about that the rising gas prices didn't bother me because we would be saving that in hair spray. The first question he always asked in the past about lodging was if they had a hair dryer. You know, it doesn't matter how he fixes his hair -- it NEVER blows on the bike! ha So, we are enjoying the bald.
Oh... that brings me to Telly Savalas... Kojak... When I was a teenager, the Kojak series was quite popular. So was Peyton Place.. I made certain I had my homework and chores done before his serices came on. I even had a huge poster of him on my bedroom door. Gosh, my teenager dreams came true. Watching him suck on those lollipops today and looking at me with a twinkle in his eye brought Kojak back to me in real life. Solace.... "Who loves you baby?" -- Chemo Sabe does.
With that -- I am closing. I wish you all a blessed weekend and will give you an update on Monday.
Love --- Pepper (Tonto)
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Circumlocution -- Word for the Day -- Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Circumlocution
DEFINITION: (noun) speaking in a roundabout way.
Ho hum... I will be circumlocution throughout this session, but will quickly get to the point.
Yes, we had our schedule visit with the doctor today at 1:30 p.m. Got in the room at 1:15 p.m. Had the doctor's assistant, which we like (Waheed) and was thoroughly briefed on several items, but which had to be confirmed with the top dog. Waited until 3:15 p.m. and he came in for five minutes and gave us a briefing. Between all this time our RN came in and gave us a rundown on a different scenario. She spoke circumlocution about our next plan of attack which ended up being completely different from the top dog. Then it ended up being her decision for scheduling after all.
We "thought" Chemo Sabe would have two weeks off, at the most. BUT, we think because we live so close, the process will be sped up. AND, we think because we were diagnosed early and quickly that they want to nip it in the bud quickly. Soooooo to keep from circumlocuting any longer, here is what we discovered.
PET scan at 6:00 a.m. Thursday, followed by lab at 10:00 a.m., followed by bone marrow biopsy at 12:45 p.m. Weekend off with a follow up appt on Monday with the top dog for the test results. Labs will be twice a week instead of every day and then we are looking at the next round of chemo to begin on July 5 -- no later. The neutrapenia will be more progressed after the chemo and then he will get the transplant.
Biopsy will tell us how the bone marrow is recuping and the PET will tell us if we still have lesions. Good news is there is nothing in the kidneys or other organs. WHAT A RELIEF!!
Think it's over? NO... We begin the cycle again working up to a possible second transplant in October. We will have a 3-4 week rest in between.
I saw a look of disappointment in Chemo Sabe's eyes. He really was looking forward to going back to work for two weeks. This way looks like only a week, BUT we still have our fingers crossed.
Believe it or not --- we are on the road to success. We are just both mentally and physically tired. We want a vacation... We are firm believers in "no work, no play", but we have to focus on the fact, this is work... Work on the body, soul, mind and spirit. Strengthening our faith.
I am closing now to soak all this Good news in. The doctors were surprised to see Chemo Sabe looking so healthy without any complaints from the chemo series except for a few days with stomach problems. PROGRESS and PRAISE!
Love --- Pepper
DEFINITION: (noun) speaking in a roundabout way.
Ho hum... I will be circumlocution throughout this session, but will quickly get to the point.
Yes, we had our schedule visit with the doctor today at 1:30 p.m. Got in the room at 1:15 p.m. Had the doctor's assistant, which we like (Waheed) and was thoroughly briefed on several items, but which had to be confirmed with the top dog. Waited until 3:15 p.m. and he came in for five minutes and gave us a briefing. Between all this time our RN came in and gave us a rundown on a different scenario. She spoke circumlocution about our next plan of attack which ended up being completely different from the top dog. Then it ended up being her decision for scheduling after all.
We "thought" Chemo Sabe would have two weeks off, at the most. BUT, we think because we live so close, the process will be sped up. AND, we think because we were diagnosed early and quickly that they want to nip it in the bud quickly. Soooooo to keep from circumlocuting any longer, here is what we discovered.
PET scan at 6:00 a.m. Thursday, followed by lab at 10:00 a.m., followed by bone marrow biopsy at 12:45 p.m. Weekend off with a follow up appt on Monday with the top dog for the test results. Labs will be twice a week instead of every day and then we are looking at the next round of chemo to begin on July 5 -- no later. The neutrapenia will be more progressed after the chemo and then he will get the transplant.
Biopsy will tell us how the bone marrow is recuping and the PET will tell us if we still have lesions. Good news is there is nothing in the kidneys or other organs. WHAT A RELIEF!!
Think it's over? NO... We begin the cycle again working up to a possible second transplant in October. We will have a 3-4 week rest in between.
I saw a look of disappointment in Chemo Sabe's eyes. He really was looking forward to going back to work for two weeks. This way looks like only a week, BUT we still have our fingers crossed.
Believe it or not --- we are on the road to success. We are just both mentally and physically tired. We want a vacation... We are firm believers in "no work, no play", but we have to focus on the fact, this is work... Work on the body, soul, mind and spirit. Strengthening our faith.
I am closing now to soak all this Good news in. The doctors were surprised to see Chemo Sabe looking so healthy without any complaints from the chemo series except for a few days with stomach problems. PROGRESS and PRAISE!
Love --- Pepper
Monday, June 23, 2008
Exacerbate -- Word for the Day -- Monday, June 23, 2008
Exacerbate
DEFINITION: (verb) to make worse or more severe.
Made 23 million by Saturday!!!! Twice a day visits are over. Still have to go everyday for lab. We see the doc tomorrow at 1:30 for our extended plan.
I took Chemo Sabe to UAMS on Saturday and dropped him off for the collection. He was to be ready by noon, after receiving another round of blood and platelets. I received his first call at 11:15 wanting to know where I was. I was struggling with the garage door. This door is solid cedar and double car. It has been hanging up on us for a couple of weeks. I kept spraying the rollers down with WD-40. A woman's answer to every household problem. Without much success I finally pulled the pull cord and dropped the door manually. I headed to UAMS and received two more calls from Chemo Sabe requesting verification of my ETA. I had several unpleasant thoughts as to his impatience as I rounded the corner to the pick up area. I was dreading the second trip already for the afternoon shot. He got in the Tahoe and said, "Let's go home, I'm done. We are going to ride". I was sorting a schedule through my use to be blonde head and wondering how little time we would have to ride before turning around and heading back. Before I finished the thought he exclaimed he had made the 20 million and didn't have to be back in the afternoon. Yipppeeeee.
We came home and waited for the heat to die down a bit, called the kids and rode to Hot Springs (17 miles away); ate dinner and got back home by 7:00 p.m. Lathered that bald head up with SPF 50 and never got a ray of sun on it.
Now back to the garage door. Exacerbate -- WD-40 in this case did not make things better -- only worse. While Chemo Sabe drove himself to UAMS on Sunday and I got to sleep late, I noticed when I shuffled downstairs that the door was open. I knew then he had problems with it before he left. I'm thinking -- "Thank's, Baby!". I worked and worked with it. Added more WD-40 on the rollers and then went to the cable and tracking chain. Ahhhhh.... I pulled the Tahoe out because it was getting hot. Okay... here we go.... wouldn't go down... Tried about 20,000 times and had an idea of the hammer... I would just beat the poop out of it, but I didn't. I gave up and pulled the pull cord. After all, it worked before. It got hung up half way down and one of the rollers came out and the door jammed 'crooked' with the right side being about one foot higher than the left. It was coming off the tracks. Cable was wrapped around the bar and the rails were bent all out of shape.
Chemo Sabe came home with good blood reports and we both went and laid down. Around 7:00 we call Son and Friend. No luck. At this rate, after the new air conditioner downstairs, repair on upstairs air, tree being cut down, and other repairs since his accident, we will have a completely remodeled home before the end of the year. God is still playing jokes on us. Keeping us occupied. Son contacted an overhead company this morning that happens to be a customer of his. Had someone out here by noon with new rollers and a confirmation that the door is in good shaped even if it is 35 years old. The rails are back in tip top shaped and it is clean of WD-40. I did get a good laughing at by the service man and a stern warning to not use the WD-40 again ont the rollers. Exacerbated. It was worth the $200.00.
Lab for yesterday -- WBC 31.58 (Range 3-12); RBC 3.33 (Range 4.5-6); Platelet 55 (Range 150-500). Remember we can't go below 50 now. It was 20 before. CRP 6.90 (Range 0-10). Remember it had been up to 60 when he was neutrapenic. So, we are on a roll.
We are both physically and mentally tired. Neither one of us wanted to get up yesterday or today. We both ache but we believe it might be from riding on Saturday. We both have scratchy throats, but believe it might be the same. I plan to talk to doc about it tomorrow. Don't want us to have any problems now with everything being on line. He is going rather quickly with his recovery. I want to hear the word "Remission" in three months.
He plans to go back to work on Wednesday and I truly believe he is ready. He needs it. I am ready for him to go. I can't do my housework or yard work with him here. He doesn't want me out of his sight. He is not clingy or demanding, he just doesn't want to sit alone.
I have been buying me some cancer hats at the gift shop. I collect ball caps like Chemo Sabe does. I actually believe I have more than he now. These hats I got last week have sequins on them. One is red to match the fringe on my bike and the other is silver and black streaked. That one was liked so much by the lady that gave 33 million that her husband made me go get her one. The gift shop was closed and he made them open it. They are from Shreveport.
He hunts me down when we get to the Infusion Center. I taught him last week how to make photos on his cell phone and he needs new lessons each day. Chemo Sabe said he was looking for me today, but I was at work.
Well... enough about me. Please continue to pray for our good fortune. God continues to help us during these trying times with His humor. I believe that is the true definition of "He will not give us more than we can handle". When it gets to that point He changes our course if only for a few hours. I don't think -- Woe is me...
Oh... forgot to tell you. Chemo Sabe got his straw length rigid port out today. Won't have to have the spaghetti one put back in for 2-3 weeks. Broken wrist to blood cancer. Haven't we learned so much in the last two months? Won't we will be able to assist many in their trials with cancers such as this around the U.S. After all, he is on prayer lists around the U.S.?
Good evening... Love --- Pepper
DEFINITION: (verb) to make worse or more severe.
Made 23 million by Saturday!!!! Twice a day visits are over. Still have to go everyday for lab. We see the doc tomorrow at 1:30 for our extended plan.
I took Chemo Sabe to UAMS on Saturday and dropped him off for the collection. He was to be ready by noon, after receiving another round of blood and platelets. I received his first call at 11:15 wanting to know where I was. I was struggling with the garage door. This door is solid cedar and double car. It has been hanging up on us for a couple of weeks. I kept spraying the rollers down with WD-40. A woman's answer to every household problem. Without much success I finally pulled the pull cord and dropped the door manually. I headed to UAMS and received two more calls from Chemo Sabe requesting verification of my ETA. I had several unpleasant thoughts as to his impatience as I rounded the corner to the pick up area. I was dreading the second trip already for the afternoon shot. He got in the Tahoe and said, "Let's go home, I'm done. We are going to ride". I was sorting a schedule through my use to be blonde head and wondering how little time we would have to ride before turning around and heading back. Before I finished the thought he exclaimed he had made the 20 million and didn't have to be back in the afternoon. Yipppeeeee.
We came home and waited for the heat to die down a bit, called the kids and rode to Hot Springs (17 miles away); ate dinner and got back home by 7:00 p.m. Lathered that bald head up with SPF 50 and never got a ray of sun on it.
Now back to the garage door. Exacerbate -- WD-40 in this case did not make things better -- only worse. While Chemo Sabe drove himself to UAMS on Sunday and I got to sleep late, I noticed when I shuffled downstairs that the door was open. I knew then he had problems with it before he left. I'm thinking -- "Thank's, Baby!". I worked and worked with it. Added more WD-40 on the rollers and then went to the cable and tracking chain. Ahhhhh.... I pulled the Tahoe out because it was getting hot. Okay... here we go.... wouldn't go down... Tried about 20,000 times and had an idea of the hammer... I would just beat the poop out of it, but I didn't. I gave up and pulled the pull cord. After all, it worked before. It got hung up half way down and one of the rollers came out and the door jammed 'crooked' with the right side being about one foot higher than the left. It was coming off the tracks. Cable was wrapped around the bar and the rails were bent all out of shape.
Chemo Sabe came home with good blood reports and we both went and laid down. Around 7:00 we call Son and Friend. No luck. At this rate, after the new air conditioner downstairs, repair on upstairs air, tree being cut down, and other repairs since his accident, we will have a completely remodeled home before the end of the year. God is still playing jokes on us. Keeping us occupied. Son contacted an overhead company this morning that happens to be a customer of his. Had someone out here by noon with new rollers and a confirmation that the door is in good shaped even if it is 35 years old. The rails are back in tip top shaped and it is clean of WD-40. I did get a good laughing at by the service man and a stern warning to not use the WD-40 again ont the rollers. Exacerbated. It was worth the $200.00.
Lab for yesterday -- WBC 31.58 (Range 3-12); RBC 3.33 (Range 4.5-6); Platelet 55 (Range 150-500). Remember we can't go below 50 now. It was 20 before. CRP 6.90 (Range 0-10). Remember it had been up to 60 when he was neutrapenic. So, we are on a roll.
We are both physically and mentally tired. Neither one of us wanted to get up yesterday or today. We both ache but we believe it might be from riding on Saturday. We both have scratchy throats, but believe it might be the same. I plan to talk to doc about it tomorrow. Don't want us to have any problems now with everything being on line. He is going rather quickly with his recovery. I want to hear the word "Remission" in three months.
He plans to go back to work on Wednesday and I truly believe he is ready. He needs it. I am ready for him to go. I can't do my housework or yard work with him here. He doesn't want me out of his sight. He is not clingy or demanding, he just doesn't want to sit alone.
I have been buying me some cancer hats at the gift shop. I collect ball caps like Chemo Sabe does. I actually believe I have more than he now. These hats I got last week have sequins on them. One is red to match the fringe on my bike and the other is silver and black streaked. That one was liked so much by the lady that gave 33 million that her husband made me go get her one. The gift shop was closed and he made them open it. They are from Shreveport.
He hunts me down when we get to the Infusion Center. I taught him last week how to make photos on his cell phone and he needs new lessons each day. Chemo Sabe said he was looking for me today, but I was at work.
Well... enough about me. Please continue to pray for our good fortune. God continues to help us during these trying times with His humor. I believe that is the true definition of "He will not give us more than we can handle". When it gets to that point He changes our course if only for a few hours. I don't think -- Woe is me...
Oh... forgot to tell you. Chemo Sabe got his straw length rigid port out today. Won't have to have the spaghetti one put back in for 2-3 weeks. Broken wrist to blood cancer. Haven't we learned so much in the last two months? Won't we will be able to assist many in their trials with cancers such as this around the U.S. After all, he is on prayer lists around the U.S.?
Chemo Sabe around the World!!!
Remind me my next visit to talk to you about Telly Savalas... Let me know those of you that remember him.
Good evening... Love --- Pepper
Friday, June 20, 2008
Alacrity -- Word for the Day -- Friday, June 20, 2008
Alacrity
DEFINITION: (noun) cheerful readiness to do something
13.7 million to date... We will be back tomorrow a.m. at 7:00 to collect more. Probably Monday, too. We will be so glad when the two a day trips are over. I have replenished the Tahoe four times this week at $85.00 a tank and am filling up again tomorrow before we head out.
Received blood and platelets again this morning. That will be a process each day until the recycling is done. The Apheresis client is giving them to him each morning so we won't have a four hour wait in Infusion again into the night. We have discovered Chemo Sabe is the only one that gets the special treatment. All others are directed to Infusion.
This morning, his nurse this week in Apheresis, Rebecca, told everyone when he hits the door that he always has a smile on his face. He told her there was no reason not to. Alacrity -- he is cheerfully ready to do something and looks forward to his goal of wellness.
Our visit this afternoon for only a shot was eventful again. We arrived at 2:30 p.m. We waited for two hours. The people that came in after we did went back before us. Some were only there 20 minutes. Ms. Huffy (Pepper) went again and asked. We were next. Then we waited another 30 minutes in the back. I went to the head nurse and then I saw one enter his room.
We decided upon arrival we would put on the log in sheet that we only needed a shot. On top of the sheet I indicated the times of his morning shot and his blood and platelets. Well, no one read it and ordered him platelets. Hence the reason for "Caregiver" -- me. When we were departing I stepped in and asked the head nurse about it. I asked her if she read the entry sheet, she claimed she did. When she pulled his binder my notation was marked in yellow highlighter and I asked her to read it... Sorry, but I had to tell her if they needed me to come back and read my notes aloud to them each day I didn't have a problem with that. Now you know why my biker name is Pepper. I take a lot, but then when I get hot......When momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.
Yes, it was my turn to say the blessing tonight. It always seems to be my turn when I am less than good. I did ask for His guidance in using me more as a tool and example.
We don't mind the hours of waiting... We do mind being looked over and then the reports not being read correctly. So, there, you have heard my Pity Party for the day. That reminds me of a song ----- "It's My Party and I'll Cry If I Want To".
I replaced that song as I washed my fuel guzzling vehicle this afternoon with "Search My Heart O God".
We did get to go by the office today. He was as excited as a kid on his first day of school. He hugged M.A. and got to laugh about his experiences with C.H. He is as bald as Chemo Sabe, but by choice. It was good for both of us to go there. He plans to work the next two weeks after discharge, if we make it that far.
Energy has been zapped out of him this week. We have been going to bed quite early. We did watch movies last night a one tonight. You will definitely have to get "Untraceable" with Diane Lane. It will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Chemo Sabe's skin is just perfect. No blemishes, no dryness, no redness or hair. He just looks squeaky clean. Has that fresh baby face look about him. He has gained 10 lb. the last few days, but that is all the liquid being pumped into him.
The lady that produced 33 million has a massive infection and the doctors cannot figure out what it is, so she can't go home this week. We found out today she is 70. She is having a series of new tests. But, she keeps laughing.
I have decided I know the real meaning of the perfect love. It is taking care of and being fully devoted to someone with cancer or a similar serious illness. You watch them ache, hurt mentally and emotionally and you cherish each moment with them no matter how hard the days are. "Til death us do part". There are so many that say those words without realizing the magnitude of the true meaning. It is a natural when you have children. A choice when you choose a mate. I have lived those words these last few months with alacrity.
We decided many years ago (20) that if an argument wasn't worth getting a divorce over, then it wasn't serious enough to waste the time arguing. We do disagree, but when he discovers I am always right, then we are back on track! ha I truly believe if more people spent more time finding ways to love instead of finding ways to argue, marriages would be more rewarding. Each individual would be filled with alacrity.
We got a test message from our son this evening --- "Hope you two had a GR8 day. Love". Little things like this brings a smile to our faces. Little things that all of you do...you cannot imagine how priceless they are.
We always looked forward to Fridays... It meant we could head out on the bikes, keep Big E for the night, have our moviethon for the weekend, or just plain do nothing. Chemo Sabe would always fix breakfast for me on the weekends. He is the BEST bacon maker. It is ALWAYS perfect. Woody, the parrot, would pace the cage back and forth and squawk until he got his small portion of bacon. He loves it. We had hoped we could have that kind of weekend this week. We will have to wait for another. Maybe we can sneak off one weekend again, soon.
With that --- I pray and hope you all had a GR8 day. Thanks for enduring my Pity Party tonight and my marriage counseling.
Aunt Nornie.... look for us soon..... We think of you when we watch the news about the floods.
Love --- Pepper
DEFINITION: (noun) cheerful readiness to do something
13.7 million to date... We will be back tomorrow a.m. at 7:00 to collect more. Probably Monday, too. We will be so glad when the two a day trips are over. I have replenished the Tahoe four times this week at $85.00 a tank and am filling up again tomorrow before we head out.
Received blood and platelets again this morning. That will be a process each day until the recycling is done. The Apheresis client is giving them to him each morning so we won't have a four hour wait in Infusion again into the night. We have discovered Chemo Sabe is the only one that gets the special treatment. All others are directed to Infusion.
This morning, his nurse this week in Apheresis, Rebecca, told everyone when he hits the door that he always has a smile on his face. He told her there was no reason not to. Alacrity -- he is cheerfully ready to do something and looks forward to his goal of wellness.
Our visit this afternoon for only a shot was eventful again. We arrived at 2:30 p.m. We waited for two hours. The people that came in after we did went back before us. Some were only there 20 minutes. Ms. Huffy (Pepper) went again and asked. We were next. Then we waited another 30 minutes in the back. I went to the head nurse and then I saw one enter his room.
We decided upon arrival we would put on the log in sheet that we only needed a shot. On top of the sheet I indicated the times of his morning shot and his blood and platelets. Well, no one read it and ordered him platelets. Hence the reason for "Caregiver" -- me. When we were departing I stepped in and asked the head nurse about it. I asked her if she read the entry sheet, she claimed she did. When she pulled his binder my notation was marked in yellow highlighter and I asked her to read it... Sorry, but I had to tell her if they needed me to come back and read my notes aloud to them each day I didn't have a problem with that. Now you know why my biker name is Pepper. I take a lot, but then when I get hot......When momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.
Yes, it was my turn to say the blessing tonight. It always seems to be my turn when I am less than good. I did ask for His guidance in using me more as a tool and example.
We don't mind the hours of waiting... We do mind being looked over and then the reports not being read correctly. So, there, you have heard my Pity Party for the day. That reminds me of a song ----- "It's My Party and I'll Cry If I Want To".
I replaced that song as I washed my fuel guzzling vehicle this afternoon with "Search My Heart O God".
We did get to go by the office today. He was as excited as a kid on his first day of school. He hugged M.A. and got to laugh about his experiences with C.H. He is as bald as Chemo Sabe, but by choice. It was good for both of us to go there. He plans to work the next two weeks after discharge, if we make it that far.
Energy has been zapped out of him this week. We have been going to bed quite early. We did watch movies last night a one tonight. You will definitely have to get "Untraceable" with Diane Lane. It will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Chemo Sabe's skin is just perfect. No blemishes, no dryness, no redness or hair. He just looks squeaky clean. Has that fresh baby face look about him. He has gained 10 lb. the last few days, but that is all the liquid being pumped into him.
The lady that produced 33 million has a massive infection and the doctors cannot figure out what it is, so she can't go home this week. We found out today she is 70. She is having a series of new tests. But, she keeps laughing.
I have decided I know the real meaning of the perfect love. It is taking care of and being fully devoted to someone with cancer or a similar serious illness. You watch them ache, hurt mentally and emotionally and you cherish each moment with them no matter how hard the days are. "Til death us do part". There are so many that say those words without realizing the magnitude of the true meaning. It is a natural when you have children. A choice when you choose a mate. I have lived those words these last few months with alacrity.
We decided many years ago (20) that if an argument wasn't worth getting a divorce over, then it wasn't serious enough to waste the time arguing. We do disagree, but when he discovers I am always right, then we are back on track! ha I truly believe if more people spent more time finding ways to love instead of finding ways to argue, marriages would be more rewarding. Each individual would be filled with alacrity.
We got a test message from our son this evening --- "Hope you two had a GR8 day. Love". Little things like this brings a smile to our faces. Little things that all of you do...you cannot imagine how priceless they are.
We always looked forward to Fridays... It meant we could head out on the bikes, keep Big E for the night, have our moviethon for the weekend, or just plain do nothing. Chemo Sabe would always fix breakfast for me on the weekends. He is the BEST bacon maker. It is ALWAYS perfect. Woody, the parrot, would pace the cage back and forth and squawk until he got his small portion of bacon. He loves it. We had hoped we could have that kind of weekend this week. We will have to wait for another. Maybe we can sneak off one weekend again, soon.
With that --- I pray and hope you all had a GR8 day. Thanks for enduring my Pity Party tonight and my marriage counseling.
Aunt Nornie.... look for us soon..... We think of you when we watch the news about the floods.
Love --- Pepper
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Servile -- Word for the Day -- Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Servile
DEFINITION: (adjective) like a servant.
4.2 million collected yesterday!!!! Need 16 million more.
Hooked up at 8:00 a.m. and to keep us from having to be detained as we were last evening, blood, platelets and magnesium was done in the Apheresis (stem cell collection) section. We only have to go in later for a shot and disconnect from the magnesium.
Surely you have heard that our bodies are our temples. Well, Chemo Sabe is surely a servile to his body these days. He is certainly a changed man, physically, mentally and spiritually through this process. I don't know if I have mentioned it in past blogs, but he evens smells differently. A refreshed, pure smell I just can't seem to describe. I have tried to explain it as a dryer sheet that has been through the drying process and all the smell good is out of it, but it still has a clean, brisk smell. I know.... I'm weird. But, this just lets you know what the patients have endured.
You probably still are thinking that he can get ready quicker now when it is time to go... Nope, he is running the razor over his head each morning AND EVENING!!! His facial hair is null, so I am guessing he is bored in the bathroom! ha We still have eyebrows and eyelashes. We feel sure he will not lose those, but we have been sure about the no-pain deal, too.
I have my hopes up about him getting discharged Friday. He is chomping at the bit to go back to work for a week or two. Then the process begins again.
Servile is the word I will use today to describe the many people that have helped us thus far. Family, friends and the ladies at the church here that answer the phone for me while I am out. It is nothing for these people to rearrange their day, or evening (Sister) to take care of things we are not able to. Thank you...
I probably won't blog tonight in hopes we will have extra time to relax.
Love -- Pepper
DEFINITION: (adjective) like a servant.
4.2 million collected yesterday!!!! Need 16 million more.
Hooked up at 8:00 a.m. and to keep us from having to be detained as we were last evening, blood, platelets and magnesium was done in the Apheresis (stem cell collection) section. We only have to go in later for a shot and disconnect from the magnesium.
Surely you have heard that our bodies are our temples. Well, Chemo Sabe is surely a servile to his body these days. He is certainly a changed man, physically, mentally and spiritually through this process. I don't know if I have mentioned it in past blogs, but he evens smells differently. A refreshed, pure smell I just can't seem to describe. I have tried to explain it as a dryer sheet that has been through the drying process and all the smell good is out of it, but it still has a clean, brisk smell. I know.... I'm weird. But, this just lets you know what the patients have endured.
You probably still are thinking that he can get ready quicker now when it is time to go... Nope, he is running the razor over his head each morning AND EVENING!!! His facial hair is null, so I am guessing he is bored in the bathroom! ha We still have eyebrows and eyelashes. We feel sure he will not lose those, but we have been sure about the no-pain deal, too.
I have my hopes up about him getting discharged Friday. He is chomping at the bit to go back to work for a week or two. Then the process begins again.
Servile is the word I will use today to describe the many people that have helped us thus far. Family, friends and the ladies at the church here that answer the phone for me while I am out. It is nothing for these people to rearrange their day, or evening (Sister) to take care of things we are not able to. Thank you...
I probably won't blog tonight in hopes we will have extra time to relax.
Love -- Pepper
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Decry -- Word for the Day -- Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Decry
DEFINITION: (verb) to criticize or condemn.
Started the morning with arriving at UAMS at 7:20 a.m. Got the collection started at 8:05, on the nose. Reports from yesterday's lab indicated he would probably only produce 1 million today. We pray it was more. We won't know the exact amount until later.
New port has been quite painful, but he doesn't want pain meds because he wants to drive. Poor guy.
We don't have much to decry. We are concerned right now about how we got over to the collection center, just by 'word of mouth'. We are concerned his blood transfusion orders were not ordered yesterday as promised. But, from all our postings, you know and we know, things have run rather smoothly. We really can't decry. It just always brings me back to the sermon KJ did a few weeks ago -- "Why Count Your Blessings When You Can Complain?" Which do we generally find more convenient?
We got back to UAMS this afternoon at 4:30... Bad choice.... Chemo Sabe was to get a unit of blood and platelets. The blood was late... We got home at 8:30 p.m. Quick grilled cheese and bowl of soup and two pain pills. Now to bed.
We won't know until the morning about how much he collected. I don't think it was much. Billy must have been dishing them out because they received a call from their doctor this afternoon to come meet with him tomorrow for a possible discharge. He only had one collection. So, the moral of this story -- no pain, no gain. You gotta hurt like hell and be so sick you can't walk to know your babies are making.
One woman from Shreveport was never in the waiting room any of her visits. Straight back to a separate area with a bed for her. She was horribly sick throughout the process after the chemo. Started the same time as our group. They collected from her the "first" visit --- 33 million. They are going home on Friday. She is still sick.
Decry ---- can't, won't, shouldn't... We will pray for better tomorrow.
Gotta cut it short. Chemo Sabe is complaining he hasn't spent enough time with me today... Helloooooooo, I guess all those hours at the hospital just aren't good quality time.
Oh.... one more thing --- All the doors were locked on our way out this evening. I turned the lock on a double sliding door to get out... Then, Chemo Sabe had to go to the potty right quick. A janitor told me we couldn't go out that door because it was locked. You know me --- I corrected him and told him I already had. He got a little assy with me. Said something about me setting off an alarm if I did that. We did go to the other door and there were two cops... waiting on us. Wellllll... he didn't have to get assy with me. I believe my words on the way out the door were, "He didn't have to talk to me like I was a criminal".
Will talk more tomorrow... Pray for those million dollar babies!!
Love --- Pepper
DEFINITION: (verb) to criticize or condemn.
Started the morning with arriving at UAMS at 7:20 a.m. Got the collection started at 8:05, on the nose. Reports from yesterday's lab indicated he would probably only produce 1 million today. We pray it was more. We won't know the exact amount until later.
New port has been quite painful, but he doesn't want pain meds because he wants to drive. Poor guy.
We don't have much to decry. We are concerned right now about how we got over to the collection center, just by 'word of mouth'. We are concerned his blood transfusion orders were not ordered yesterday as promised. But, from all our postings, you know and we know, things have run rather smoothly. We really can't decry. It just always brings me back to the sermon KJ did a few weeks ago -- "Why Count Your Blessings When You Can Complain?" Which do we generally find more convenient?
We got back to UAMS this afternoon at 4:30... Bad choice.... Chemo Sabe was to get a unit of blood and platelets. The blood was late... We got home at 8:30 p.m. Quick grilled cheese and bowl of soup and two pain pills. Now to bed.
We won't know until the morning about how much he collected. I don't think it was much. Billy must have been dishing them out because they received a call from their doctor this afternoon to come meet with him tomorrow for a possible discharge. He only had one collection. So, the moral of this story -- no pain, no gain. You gotta hurt like hell and be so sick you can't walk to know your babies are making.
One woman from Shreveport was never in the waiting room any of her visits. Straight back to a separate area with a bed for her. She was horribly sick throughout the process after the chemo. Started the same time as our group. They collected from her the "first" visit --- 33 million. They are going home on Friday. She is still sick.
Decry ---- can't, won't, shouldn't... We will pray for better tomorrow.
Gotta cut it short. Chemo Sabe is complaining he hasn't spent enough time with me today... Helloooooooo, I guess all those hours at the hospital just aren't good quality time.
Oh.... one more thing --- All the doors were locked on our way out this evening. I turned the lock on a double sliding door to get out... Then, Chemo Sabe had to go to the potty right quick. A janitor told me we couldn't go out that door because it was locked. You know me --- I corrected him and told him I already had. He got a little assy with me. Said something about me setting off an alarm if I did that. We did go to the other door and there were two cops... waiting on us. Wellllll... he didn't have to get assy with me. I believe my words on the way out the door were, "He didn't have to talk to me like I was a criminal".
Will talk more tomorrow... Pray for those million dollar babies!!
Love --- Pepper
Monday, June 16, 2008
Zealous -- Word for the Day -- Monday, June 16, 2008
Zealous
DEFINITION: (adjective) filled with eagerness, fervor, or passion.
That is exactly what we were at 7:00 a.m. today. We got to the stem cell collection dept and signed in. NO PAPERWORK. "Who sent you here?", they asked. "Other patients", we replied. Hey, whatever works... It got us in the door. Zealous -- We were outta there by 8:00 a.m. and told we would probably start collection tomorrow. Chemo Sabe got a call at 11:30 to report to Radiology for a port change and we did it.
When asked how he felt today, Chemo Sabe responded he felt great. When asked how his pain was, he responded he had absolutely no pain. She told us that was not good. His bones needed to be aching and painful as that was a sign his blood cells were bursting at the seams to get out of the bone marrow. So, if you remember, Billy has been in a great deal of pain. And, that is a good reason why a lot of the other patients were on pain killers. And, here we thought we were doing good. With that, Chemo Sabe told her his elbow had been bothering him. And, it really has. He has been wearing a band around it to take some pressure off for the last two weeks.
Now the kicker.... Still had to check in at Infusion for the second shot of the day. Appt. each day is 5:00, BUT, since the first shot was at 8:00 the five hour waiting time would be 1:00. So, we 'thought' we had it made. Got there at 3:00....about 1,000 (exaggeration) people in the waiting room. We left there at 5:30 p.m. Tomorrow, after the collection, he will be receiving another blood transfusion.
PRAISE!!! Taken off all meds except one to increase his blood pressure. He has always had low. We will begin another one back up (anti-viral) after the collection. Growth shots will be discontinued on Wednesday. Today his dose was increased to "make those babies". We got to stop the appetite meds, too. Those were two a day. We have been getting milk shakes every day. I really was zealous about him losing weight so I could lose a few pounds. Didn't happen.
We got back again tomorrow at 7:00 a.m. The collection will be about a two day process of four hours each day. They are hoping to collect 20 MILLION cells. No less! I didn't put in all the zeros because I knew you wouldn't believe it or think I had made a typo. After the cells are reviewed and his labs look good then he will get a "Discharge". That is their term. The 'discharge' means his collection is final. We will visit with the doctor and get a plan for our next step. He will hopefully gets two weeks off, of which is he already talking about going back to work... GR8
After the vacation, per se, he will do the chemo bag again and the process begins again and go through to the stem cell transplant. There won't be another collection.
So, there you have it. Doesn't it sound so simple?
We are (zealous) looking forward to a break. Parker is sick again and I hope his sugar isn't acting up. Maxie was due at the vet last week. Our vet called today while we were in Radiology and says I can wait a while on her, if I pick up meds for her to take monthly. Kipper is just happy to be around. Pete has calmed down tremendously since he hasn't been allowed to lie around in bed with us. Woody is chomping at the bit for affection. A lot of the new changes will still be in effect. Some things won't go back to the old ways. Woody won't be able to drink coffee with Chemo Sabe as he shaves or takes a shower. He, in fact, probably won't see the outside of the sun room again. And to top off all that, we have a mole in the front yard creating all sorts of tunnels. We have never had a mole here. So, you see, my honey-dos for Chemo Sabe are stacking up. Pay backs are hell, ain't they?
We are blessed to have you all praying for us. We are anxious to spend some quality time with you. We are zealous!!!
Love --- Pepper
DEFINITION: (adjective) filled with eagerness, fervor, or passion.
That is exactly what we were at 7:00 a.m. today. We got to the stem cell collection dept and signed in. NO PAPERWORK. "Who sent you here?", they asked. "Other patients", we replied. Hey, whatever works... It got us in the door. Zealous -- We were outta there by 8:00 a.m. and told we would probably start collection tomorrow. Chemo Sabe got a call at 11:30 to report to Radiology for a port change and we did it.
When asked how he felt today, Chemo Sabe responded he felt great. When asked how his pain was, he responded he had absolutely no pain. She told us that was not good. His bones needed to be aching and painful as that was a sign his blood cells were bursting at the seams to get out of the bone marrow. So, if you remember, Billy has been in a great deal of pain. And, that is a good reason why a lot of the other patients were on pain killers. And, here we thought we were doing good. With that, Chemo Sabe told her his elbow had been bothering him. And, it really has. He has been wearing a band around it to take some pressure off for the last two weeks.
Now the kicker.... Still had to check in at Infusion for the second shot of the day. Appt. each day is 5:00, BUT, since the first shot was at 8:00 the five hour waiting time would be 1:00. So, we 'thought' we had it made. Got there at 3:00....about 1,000 (exaggeration) people in the waiting room. We left there at 5:30 p.m. Tomorrow, after the collection, he will be receiving another blood transfusion.
PRAISE!!! Taken off all meds except one to increase his blood pressure. He has always had low. We will begin another one back up (anti-viral) after the collection. Growth shots will be discontinued on Wednesday. Today his dose was increased to "make those babies". We got to stop the appetite meds, too. Those were two a day. We have been getting milk shakes every day. I really was zealous about him losing weight so I could lose a few pounds. Didn't happen.
We got back again tomorrow at 7:00 a.m. The collection will be about a two day process of four hours each day. They are hoping to collect 20 MILLION cells. No less! I didn't put in all the zeros because I knew you wouldn't believe it or think I had made a typo. After the cells are reviewed and his labs look good then he will get a "Discharge". That is their term. The 'discharge' means his collection is final. We will visit with the doctor and get a plan for our next step. He will hopefully gets two weeks off, of which is he already talking about going back to work... GR8
After the vacation, per se, he will do the chemo bag again and the process begins again and go through to the stem cell transplant. There won't be another collection.
So, there you have it. Doesn't it sound so simple?
We are (zealous) looking forward to a break. Parker is sick again and I hope his sugar isn't acting up. Maxie was due at the vet last week. Our vet called today while we were in Radiology and says I can wait a while on her, if I pick up meds for her to take monthly. Kipper is just happy to be around. Pete has calmed down tremendously since he hasn't been allowed to lie around in bed with us. Woody is chomping at the bit for affection. A lot of the new changes will still be in effect. Some things won't go back to the old ways. Woody won't be able to drink coffee with Chemo Sabe as he shaves or takes a shower. He, in fact, probably won't see the outside of the sun room again. And to top off all that, we have a mole in the front yard creating all sorts of tunnels. We have never had a mole here. So, you see, my honey-dos for Chemo Sabe are stacking up. Pay backs are hell, ain't they?
We are blessed to have you all praying for us. We are anxious to spend some quality time with you. We are zealous!!!
Love --- Pepper
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Novice -- Word for the Day -- Sunday, June 15, 2008
Novice
DEFINITION: (noun) a person who is new to a field or activity.
What an eventful day! Pleasant, but eventful. We started our morning early by arriving at UAMS at 8:30 a.m. We were out of there by 10:30 a.m. Chemo Sabe had his lab and shot.
We spoke with Billy and Sherry (Alabama) this morning and his is still in pain from the growth factor shots. He really is struggling with swollen knees and ankles. Please continue to pray for added strength.
I knew when we got up this morning and saw the sunlight that Chemo Sabe would want to ride. And, we did. We left here around 1:00 p.m. and headed toward Lake Catherine to see the kids. We got as far as Malvern (25 miles from here) and stopped to get gas. It was just too hot to continue on so we got back on the interstate and headed back to the house. We thought about doing our last trip of the day to UAMS on the bikes, but then he noticed a little swelling in his wrist so we took the truck.
Lab from this morning --- WBC 9.09..... WOWEE GAZAWEEE... Crap is 16... Even better!
We are heading to the Ward Tower by 7:00 a.m. tomorrow. I believe there will be about 4-5 of us. First will be a blood test to see if the counts are enough to collect. Then back to Infusion to get the port switched out. Remember, the one now looks like a piece of spaghetti running through the juggler with three IV tubes hanging on the chest. It is called the "Cook" port. The replacement is the "Quinten" when is about the size of a straw and as flexible as a piece of pvc. The first port is really not interrupted. A wire guide is inserted into the Cook to hold open the vein. The Cook is eased out and and then the Quinten slides down the wire into place. Something definitely a novice could not do.
He is still scheduled to get the two growth factor shots twice a day until Wednesday. So, after the port exchange he will get his shot. From what we gather the collection will start on Tuesday. Cross your fingers!
I sincerely hope you all are taking notes on all this medical jargon, because I will be giving tests in the future. And, if you are a novice, you will have no chance of passing the test.
I am making these notes short as I am watching the NBA playoffs, so I will close with the excitement for the day. I wanted to save it for last.
1. Chemo Sabe is BALD!!!!! Yes, you heard me correctly. BALD!!!!! We noticed yesterday a few chunks were coming out. I tugged on his hair last night and when I pulled it came out. So, this morning with clippers in hand, in the garage, I took it ALL OFF.. He is trying to convince me it won't take him so long to get ready for work, doctor's visits, or play since there is nothing there... Yeah, right. I can already see him with tweezers or the razor fine tuning it each morning. He has already been clipping over his ears. Says I missed a spot.
2. Big E came over this afternoon (4 yr old grandson). I asked him if he wanted his hair like Poppy's... No, way! Well, about an hour after they left Chemo Sabe got a cell phone photo of daddy and Big E (known as Earl to some). They had both shaved their heads when they got home. The caption "He wanted to look like Poppy". I felt a lump in my throat and I think I saw an ever bigger one in Chemo Sabe's. I believe that was the best Father's Day gift anyone could get.
The dogs haven't had a hard time getting use to it because he talks to them so much. Woody is a different story. I let him out of the cage when we come home so he can drink water. We don't leave it in the cage because he likes to take too many baths. Well, when Chemo Sabe took some trash to the sun room Woody attack the back of his head and poked a hole in it. He then bit Chemo Sabe's hand when he was trying to get him off of him. When Woody heard his voice he stopped. He is the best damn watch dog we've ever had. He is Chemo Sabe's baby, but he just didn't recognize him.
Well, thanks for all you do. Keep those prayers rolling. We had some sad news this morning from an elderly gentleman that starting the same time as us. He couldn't get his WBC high enough so they took him off the chemo and meds and are starting him all over with different stuff. They were so disappointed. Pray for their encouragement.
I believe after the collection Chemo Sabe will have a week of rest. I am certain he will be attempting work days during that time. Whatever he feels like, Pepper gonna let him do.
Have a great week....... Love Pepper
DEFINITION: (noun) a person who is new to a field or activity.
What an eventful day! Pleasant, but eventful. We started our morning early by arriving at UAMS at 8:30 a.m. We were out of there by 10:30 a.m. Chemo Sabe had his lab and shot.
We spoke with Billy and Sherry (Alabama) this morning and his is still in pain from the growth factor shots. He really is struggling with swollen knees and ankles. Please continue to pray for added strength.
I knew when we got up this morning and saw the sunlight that Chemo Sabe would want to ride. And, we did. We left here around 1:00 p.m. and headed toward Lake Catherine to see the kids. We got as far as Malvern (25 miles from here) and stopped to get gas. It was just too hot to continue on so we got back on the interstate and headed back to the house. We thought about doing our last trip of the day to UAMS on the bikes, but then he noticed a little swelling in his wrist so we took the truck.
Lab from this morning --- WBC 9.09..... WOWEE GAZAWEEE... Crap is 16... Even better!
We are heading to the Ward Tower by 7:00 a.m. tomorrow. I believe there will be about 4-5 of us. First will be a blood test to see if the counts are enough to collect. Then back to Infusion to get the port switched out. Remember, the one now looks like a piece of spaghetti running through the juggler with three IV tubes hanging on the chest. It is called the "Cook" port. The replacement is the "Quinten" when is about the size of a straw and as flexible as a piece of pvc. The first port is really not interrupted. A wire guide is inserted into the Cook to hold open the vein. The Cook is eased out and and then the Quinten slides down the wire into place. Something definitely a novice could not do.
He is still scheduled to get the two growth factor shots twice a day until Wednesday. So, after the port exchange he will get his shot. From what we gather the collection will start on Tuesday. Cross your fingers!
I sincerely hope you all are taking notes on all this medical jargon, because I will be giving tests in the future. And, if you are a novice, you will have no chance of passing the test.
I am making these notes short as I am watching the NBA playoffs, so I will close with the excitement for the day. I wanted to save it for last.
1. Chemo Sabe is BALD!!!!! Yes, you heard me correctly. BALD!!!!! We noticed yesterday a few chunks were coming out. I tugged on his hair last night and when I pulled it came out. So, this morning with clippers in hand, in the garage, I took it ALL OFF.. He is trying to convince me it won't take him so long to get ready for work, doctor's visits, or play since there is nothing there... Yeah, right. I can already see him with tweezers or the razor fine tuning it each morning. He has already been clipping over his ears. Says I missed a spot.
2. Big E came over this afternoon (4 yr old grandson). I asked him if he wanted his hair like Poppy's... No, way! Well, about an hour after they left Chemo Sabe got a cell phone photo of daddy and Big E (known as Earl to some). They had both shaved their heads when they got home. The caption "He wanted to look like Poppy". I felt a lump in my throat and I think I saw an ever bigger one in Chemo Sabe's. I believe that was the best Father's Day gift anyone could get.
The dogs haven't had a hard time getting use to it because he talks to them so much. Woody is a different story. I let him out of the cage when we come home so he can drink water. We don't leave it in the cage because he likes to take too many baths. Well, when Chemo Sabe took some trash to the sun room Woody attack the back of his head and poked a hole in it. He then bit Chemo Sabe's hand when he was trying to get him off of him. When Woody heard his voice he stopped. He is the best damn watch dog we've ever had. He is Chemo Sabe's baby, but he just didn't recognize him.
Well, thanks for all you do. Keep those prayers rolling. We had some sad news this morning from an elderly gentleman that starting the same time as us. He couldn't get his WBC high enough so they took him off the chemo and meds and are starting him all over with different stuff. They were so disappointed. Pray for their encouragement.
I believe after the collection Chemo Sabe will have a week of rest. I am certain he will be attempting work days during that time. Whatever he feels like, Pepper gonna let him do.
Have a great week....... Love Pepper
Saturday, June 14, 2008
WBC -- Word for the Day -- Saturday, June 14, 2008
WBC -- White Blood Count
5.12...... WAY TO GO, CHEMO SABE. Yesterdays was 2.89
16.29......CRP -- Crap. Yesterday, was 36.5
YEAEAEAEHHHHH!!!
5.12...... WAY TO GO, CHEMO SABE. Yesterdays was 2.89
16.29......CRP -- Crap. Yesterday, was 36.5
YEAEAEAEHHHHH!!!
Neutropenic -- Word for the Day -- Saturday, June 14, 2008
Neutropenia
Definition: A condition of an abnormally low number of a type of a particular type of white blood cell called a neutrophil. White blood cells (leukocytes) are the cells in the blood that play important roles in the body's immune by fighting off infection. Because white blood cells can be affected by many diseases, doctors will often check the "white blood cell count" in evaluating health conditions.
I apologize for spelling this word wrong throughout the blog, but I think I explained it well enough that you knew what it meant anyway.
2.86 -- HEY!!! That is what the WBC was yesterday. Remember, we only had to get to 2.0. Sooooooo, we believe we are a go for getting the new port on Monday.
We arrived early this morning to UAMS. We were out of there by 9:30. After waiting almost two hours yesterday afternoon, and Pepper getting a little huffy about others going back that had only been there 20 min., we decided to get up and out today. We have to wait 5-6 hours between shots so hopefully we can beat the 5:00 p.m. rush today.
Chemo Sabe drove to his parents to deliver Father's Day gift. Yes, I let him go alone. But, of course, I had to get my nails done. He had more energy yesterday after coming off the groggy meds and today he was much better, also.
His appetite is doing very well. He gained three pounds since yesterday. He is eating more snacks between meals so I think that makes a big difference.
Today was to have been the beginning of our vacation. We had planned since January to ride to Knoxville up the dragon tail trail with our friends from Conway. They left this morning without us. I did get an email from them before they left. Rainman and Stretch will not have the most of fun because the four of us usually go everywhere on the bikes together. We still have our reservations for the Bikes, Blues and BBQ scheduled in September. By February all the lodging is booked for that festival. I made our reservations in January. There is usually 300,000 people... No, I didn't put too many zeros.
We let Pete in the den last night and he laid between Chemo Sabe's legs most of the night. If he had gotten any closer we could not have gotten a needle between them. Maxie has been rolling in the dirt so she is still confined to the sun room. Pete went there for the sleeping part.
Well, need to get on the road... Will let you know the labs when we return this evening.
Please keep Rainman and Stretch in your prayers this week as they travel. Also, pray for a continuous high WBC count. And, don't forget those that started this process the same day as we. Billy was down to 0.10 this week and only 1.2 yesterday. He had to take home a IV of magnesium yesterday. He is still taking the pain meds, too. We had thought he hurt his knee, but we found out this morning that it is the growth factor shots we get twice a day that is hurting him.
Love.... Pepper
Definition: A condition of an abnormally low number of a type of a particular type of white blood cell called a neutrophil. White blood cells (leukocytes) are the cells in the blood that play important roles in the body's immune by fighting off infection. Because white blood cells can be affected by many diseases, doctors will often check the "white blood cell count" in evaluating health conditions.
I apologize for spelling this word wrong throughout the blog, but I think I explained it well enough that you knew what it meant anyway.
2.86 -- HEY!!! That is what the WBC was yesterday. Remember, we only had to get to 2.0. Sooooooo, we believe we are a go for getting the new port on Monday.
We arrived early this morning to UAMS. We were out of there by 9:30. After waiting almost two hours yesterday afternoon, and Pepper getting a little huffy about others going back that had only been there 20 min., we decided to get up and out today. We have to wait 5-6 hours between shots so hopefully we can beat the 5:00 p.m. rush today.
Chemo Sabe drove to his parents to deliver Father's Day gift. Yes, I let him go alone. But, of course, I had to get my nails done. He had more energy yesterday after coming off the groggy meds and today he was much better, also.
His appetite is doing very well. He gained three pounds since yesterday. He is eating more snacks between meals so I think that makes a big difference.
Today was to have been the beginning of our vacation. We had planned since January to ride to Knoxville up the dragon tail trail with our friends from Conway. They left this morning without us. I did get an email from them before they left. Rainman and Stretch will not have the most of fun because the four of us usually go everywhere on the bikes together. We still have our reservations for the Bikes, Blues and BBQ scheduled in September. By February all the lodging is booked for that festival. I made our reservations in January. There is usually 300,000 people... No, I didn't put too many zeros.
We let Pete in the den last night and he laid between Chemo Sabe's legs most of the night. If he had gotten any closer we could not have gotten a needle between them. Maxie has been rolling in the dirt so she is still confined to the sun room. Pete went there for the sleeping part.
Well, need to get on the road... Will let you know the labs when we return this evening.
Please keep Rainman and Stretch in your prayers this week as they travel. Also, pray for a continuous high WBC count. And, don't forget those that started this process the same day as we. Billy was down to 0.10 this week and only 1.2 yesterday. He had to take home a IV of magnesium yesterday. He is still taking the pain meds, too. We had thought he hurt his knee, but we found out this morning that it is the growth factor shots we get twice a day that is hurting him.
Love.... Pepper
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Belated -- Word for the Day -- Thursday, June 12, 2008
Belated
DEFINITION: (adjective) delayed past the proper time.
My, my... how these words always seem to relate to our days. These words are posted on Yahoo each day, so it might be a horoscope of sorts if I were to look at them before the day begins, but I do not. I don't believe in horoscopes. I believe in our Saviour.
Belated -- We again had our spirits lifted this morning with a possibility of beginning the collection process this afternoon. At 10:00 a.m. we were told after 15 vials of samples that we could possibly be called back by noon to have the larger port inserted for the collection to begin tomorrow. We rushed home, had a good lunch (tuna sandwiches) and laid down for a power nap. Set my alarm for 2:00, just in case. No call. So we trudged back up at 3:00, got the shot and came back home.
Chemo Sabe did feel up to a Wally World trip. We walked the whole store. He has been craving fruit and since he can only eat the kind you have to peel I have been getting canned fruit. His favorite is pineapple chunks.
What a sad face when we saw the lab results from this morning. WBC is only at 1.38. Good news ... his platelets went from 14 yesterday to 46 today. Thanks for the extra yesterday. His WBC will make it to 2.00 over the weekend, but the port cannot be inserted until Monday, now.
I did get to take him off one of his meds today. He won't be so groggy and seeming out of sorts. I believe it might perk him up a bit. We counted the ones he will be coming off of for the collection and we will be removing five bottles.
We did get by his office so he could see the girls. They all got big hugs. He was most happy to see they were doing so well. Ms. T says she doesn't want to be him. She is the VP in from Atlanta to do things for him. Isn't that wonderful? They all are so good to him.
Belated --- By getting our hopes up the last two days we know we were just pushing the envelope. It is better to be belated and certain than rush and get down too fast. The collection will zap his energy once again so I am hoping the weekend will give him a little rest from being tired. Doesn't make sense does it? But, it is true. He has said he would rather be working than just sitting and being tired of resting.
I started the bikes this evening. I heard them calling our names. Chemo Sabe came out and pretended he didn't know what the sound of the pipes was. I sure miss Poppy.
We hope to have some energy to do a few 'little' things around the house this weekend. I had thought it may be a good idea to take a short trip, BUT, I then remembered we are still making two trips a day to UAMS. Kinda puts a dent in extended plans, even for a day.
We have been blessed that he hasn't had to take a single pain pill. Why???? He isn't in pain. All the other MM patients we know are on pain meds all the time. Some of them are fall risk because their bones are not strong. Some of them discovered their illness by kidney problems. We don't have any of those symptoms. What a blessing. Those things lift our spirits and make us stronger.
God is good to us. We have more than we deserve as far as material things. We are in our second childhood. We probably act more foolish that our grand kids at times. Dammit, we just enjoy each other and the fun we have with family and friends.
Our pets have done wonderfully since we have been nutrpenic. Maxie and Pete stay in the sun room at night because they are the most hyper. Kipper and Parker sleep in the den on the floor under the end of the couch. Woody (the parrot) flies onto my shoulders each time I go to the sun room. He misses drinking coffee, showering and shaving with Chemo Sabe each morning. He is begging for attention. They all somehow sense he cannot touch them or be close to him. They have not been aggressive in any way to try and bolt through the door. Animals are just special in the way they care for humans.
Well........ looks as if I am rambling. It is too quiet downstairs.... Guess I better go check things out.
Oh, we haven't had coffee in about two weeks. He is fixing a pot in the morning. That tells me he is coming around.
Love to you all...... Pepper
DEFINITION: (adjective) delayed past the proper time.
My, my... how these words always seem to relate to our days. These words are posted on Yahoo each day, so it might be a horoscope of sorts if I were to look at them before the day begins, but I do not. I don't believe in horoscopes. I believe in our Saviour.
Belated -- We again had our spirits lifted this morning with a possibility of beginning the collection process this afternoon. At 10:00 a.m. we were told after 15 vials of samples that we could possibly be called back by noon to have the larger port inserted for the collection to begin tomorrow. We rushed home, had a good lunch (tuna sandwiches) and laid down for a power nap. Set my alarm for 2:00, just in case. No call. So we trudged back up at 3:00, got the shot and came back home.
Chemo Sabe did feel up to a Wally World trip. We walked the whole store. He has been craving fruit and since he can only eat the kind you have to peel I have been getting canned fruit. His favorite is pineapple chunks.
What a sad face when we saw the lab results from this morning. WBC is only at 1.38. Good news ... his platelets went from 14 yesterday to 46 today. Thanks for the extra yesterday. His WBC will make it to 2.00 over the weekend, but the port cannot be inserted until Monday, now.
I did get to take him off one of his meds today. He won't be so groggy and seeming out of sorts. I believe it might perk him up a bit. We counted the ones he will be coming off of for the collection and we will be removing five bottles.
We did get by his office so he could see the girls. They all got big hugs. He was most happy to see they were doing so well. Ms. T says she doesn't want to be him. She is the VP in from Atlanta to do things for him. Isn't that wonderful? They all are so good to him.
Belated --- By getting our hopes up the last two days we know we were just pushing the envelope. It is better to be belated and certain than rush and get down too fast. The collection will zap his energy once again so I am hoping the weekend will give him a little rest from being tired. Doesn't make sense does it? But, it is true. He has said he would rather be working than just sitting and being tired of resting.
I started the bikes this evening. I heard them calling our names. Chemo Sabe came out and pretended he didn't know what the sound of the pipes was. I sure miss Poppy.
We hope to have some energy to do a few 'little' things around the house this weekend. I had thought it may be a good idea to take a short trip, BUT, I then remembered we are still making two trips a day to UAMS. Kinda puts a dent in extended plans, even for a day.
We have been blessed that he hasn't had to take a single pain pill. Why???? He isn't in pain. All the other MM patients we know are on pain meds all the time. Some of them are fall risk because their bones are not strong. Some of them discovered their illness by kidney problems. We don't have any of those symptoms. What a blessing. Those things lift our spirits and make us stronger.
God is good to us. We have more than we deserve as far as material things. We are in our second childhood. We probably act more foolish that our grand kids at times. Dammit, we just enjoy each other and the fun we have with family and friends.
Our pets have done wonderfully since we have been nutrpenic. Maxie and Pete stay in the sun room at night because they are the most hyper. Kipper and Parker sleep in the den on the floor under the end of the couch. Woody (the parrot) flies onto my shoulders each time I go to the sun room. He misses drinking coffee, showering and shaving with Chemo Sabe each morning. He is begging for attention. They all somehow sense he cannot touch them or be close to him. They have not been aggressive in any way to try and bolt through the door. Animals are just special in the way they care for humans.
Well........ looks as if I am rambling. It is too quiet downstairs.... Guess I better go check things out.
Oh, we haven't had coffee in about two weeks. He is fixing a pot in the morning. That tells me he is coming around.
Love to you all...... Pepper
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Responsive -- Word for the Day -- Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Responsive
DEFINITION: (adjective) reacting quickly and appropriately.
We got our hopes up today, quickly. This morning Chemo Sabe was given information that his WBC was coming up fast and would be scheduled for stem cell collection on Monday. This would mean he would not be taking half of his meds. About 20 pills a day right now. I heard the responsive excitement in his voice when he called. He has to be up to 2.0 on WBC with 3.0 - 12.0 being the range. I left work so I could pick him up. CH (his niece) took him this morning. She is the RN, remember.
We got back to UAMS by 3:45. He got his growth factor shot and we were told we could leave. I reminded them of the follow-up visit he was promised. I also wanted a copy of the lab report from this morning. I was for certain he would need platelets again since his were 24 yesterday. Remember, below 20 is the marker.
Well, his WBC is only 0.7. His platelets were 14. The normal range is 150-500. So, with a disappointed face he accepted the news and told the APN, why be in a rush?
I see his eyes getting weaker and his face getting thinner. His weight is still steady and his appetite is better. He wanted pizza tonight. That encouraged me.
He was ready to drive himself tomorrow with hopes of going to the office for awhile. I am trying to convince him it is just too soon for him to drive with all the meds he is taking. Which brings us to our Word -- Responsive.
His WBC will be responsive by the end of the week. More blood tests will be made tomorrow and Friday to see if the bone marrow has been responsive to the twice a day growth factor injections. If they are, then we are a 'go' for Monday collection. After that, I am hearing he will get a rest for a week. Then another round of chemo.
The crap (CRP) is coming down some and he is not having the stomach problems he had earlier this week. He laughed tonight and said he had eaten too many fish sticks last night. He had a belly ache and couldn't sleep.
I have heard through the grapevine he is not wearing his mask like he should. I got him a few new ones at the Infusion Center today. Treesie bought some at the store and they are painters masks, so he convinced me they were too thick to breathe through.
He comforts others in the waiting room now. I see the tables have turned since we first started when we were comforted. I saw his hand go to the shoulder of a man today that was so weak he couldn't make it to a recliner. This is his fourth round for stem cell. When we first started this he told me when he got through it he wanted to be a volunteer to those needing to hear his story of success. Responsive
It is early and he is sleeping. I hate to wake him for his round of pills. It is hard for me to keep back my tears in front of him when I see him hurt. It was tough today, but those nurses keep us laughing.
Please continue with your prayers for I feel them working.
Our friend, Keith, that is back from Alabama had a vehicle accident on the way to his bag change on Monday. He always wears a black wide brimmed hat and he has lost it. He is for certain he left it on his vehicle when it was towed. What memories that hat holds. He is in responsive remission.
Thank you for your emails and calls....... Love, Pepper
DEFINITION: (adjective) reacting quickly and appropriately.
We got our hopes up today, quickly. This morning Chemo Sabe was given information that his WBC was coming up fast and would be scheduled for stem cell collection on Monday. This would mean he would not be taking half of his meds. About 20 pills a day right now. I heard the responsive excitement in his voice when he called. He has to be up to 2.0 on WBC with 3.0 - 12.0 being the range. I left work so I could pick him up. CH (his niece) took him this morning. She is the RN, remember.
We got back to UAMS by 3:45. He got his growth factor shot and we were told we could leave. I reminded them of the follow-up visit he was promised. I also wanted a copy of the lab report from this morning. I was for certain he would need platelets again since his were 24 yesterday. Remember, below 20 is the marker.
Well, his WBC is only 0.7. His platelets were 14. The normal range is 150-500. So, with a disappointed face he accepted the news and told the APN, why be in a rush?
I see his eyes getting weaker and his face getting thinner. His weight is still steady and his appetite is better. He wanted pizza tonight. That encouraged me.
He was ready to drive himself tomorrow with hopes of going to the office for awhile. I am trying to convince him it is just too soon for him to drive with all the meds he is taking. Which brings us to our Word -- Responsive.
His WBC will be responsive by the end of the week. More blood tests will be made tomorrow and Friday to see if the bone marrow has been responsive to the twice a day growth factor injections. If they are, then we are a 'go' for Monday collection. After that, I am hearing he will get a rest for a week. Then another round of chemo.
The crap (CRP) is coming down some and he is not having the stomach problems he had earlier this week. He laughed tonight and said he had eaten too many fish sticks last night. He had a belly ache and couldn't sleep.
I have heard through the grapevine he is not wearing his mask like he should. I got him a few new ones at the Infusion Center today. Treesie bought some at the store and they are painters masks, so he convinced me they were too thick to breathe through.
He comforts others in the waiting room now. I see the tables have turned since we first started when we were comforted. I saw his hand go to the shoulder of a man today that was so weak he couldn't make it to a recliner. This is his fourth round for stem cell. When we first started this he told me when he got through it he wanted to be a volunteer to those needing to hear his story of success. Responsive
It is early and he is sleeping. I hate to wake him for his round of pills. It is hard for me to keep back my tears in front of him when I see him hurt. It was tough today, but those nurses keep us laughing.
Please continue with your prayers for I feel them working.
Our friend, Keith, that is back from Alabama had a vehicle accident on the way to his bag change on Monday. He always wears a black wide brimmed hat and he has lost it. He is for certain he left it on his vehicle when it was towed. What memories that hat holds. He is in responsive remission.
Thank you for your emails and calls....... Love, Pepper
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Grateful -- Word for the Day -- Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Grateful
Definition: endeared to others for things they do or say to brighten your day.
Don't get your dictionary out. It isn't the true definition. I didn't like the Word for the Day today, so I chose my own and made my own definition.
I am grateful today to be able to continue to have the relationship I do with Chemo Sabe. He worries about me I think sometimes more than I do him. He worries that I mow the yard, do the extra work around the house he was so used to doing. I use it as my release valve. The physical exertion does me more good than the mental.
Today's WBC was 0.50. We are hoping for an incline tomorrow. He is hoping to ride again this weekend. He wants to go to work this week for a few hours. If he feels like it, I am all for it.
Today would have been my grandma and grandpa's wedding anniversary. They have been gone for quite some time now. They were very special to me. I told grandma once I wanted someone I could lie in bed at night and talk over the day's events and solve problems. Someone I could sleep next to and know they would be there for me throughout the night and days. When I was younger and I spent the nights with them I could hear them talking into the night. Murmuring to each other and an occasional chuckle when they spoke of something the grand kids did. I told her before she died I had that someone, just as she had in grandpa. For that, I am grateful.
God still plays games with us. He turns our stressful moments into comical ones and we realize it and laugh (sometimes). Chemo Sabe and I take turns saying the blessing at each meal. It was my turn last night. I was worn out and having my own inward pity party. He wanted soup for supper. As I sat on our couch/bed and he in his recliner, I asked him to turn down that awfully loud t.v. Isn't it always loud when you are stretched? Instead of turning it down, he tosses the remote over to me and wouldn't you know it, the damn thing landed right in the middle of my bowl of soup. Go ahead, laugh..... I had to wash the comforter.
The urgent rushes to the bathroom have ended. He is now on a strong antibiotic for an intestinal bacterial infection. The chemo can burn the inner lining and cause an infection. It is a hard pill to swallow with the size and the bitter taste, but he is taking it three times a day. We believe a big contributor to the rushes was milk. He loves cereal and had been eating graham crackers and milk, too.
I have, I think, an organized presentation of his meds. I have them in the kitchen window and I have marked the labels with permanent marker with the date started, a.m./pm. and what they are for. Also, I have on the labels -- with food - without food. It works very well. After I take out all the p.m. pills, I leave the a.m. bottles on the counter for the next morning. The a.m. bottles are on the left side of the window and the p.m. are on the right. It has become very easy to pull them down in order without reading each label. When he stops one, I put the end date on it and put the bottle in a container on top of the frig.
Another God game. I laid all the a.m. pills in a paper towel, as usual, and put them on the bar on Monday morning. When I came back through the towel was gone. After asking, I discovered the pills were not taken, but thrown away. Hence, an older nickname -- Mr. Clean.
Appetite is returning somewhat. We had fish sticks tonight and he was eating off the stove before I could get them on the plates.
Grateful -- Yes, I am grateful to God for giving us joy and laughter. I am grateful to the Church I work for because they are so understanding. I am grateful to family for their undying care for us. I am grateful to my every day friend and boss that continues to brighten my day. And, the list goes on.
Please pray for Ms. Lucy at church. She has cancer and is back in the hospital. Her family has been advised to plan for her funeral.
We love you.... Pepper
p.s. -- We are going to a movie and dinner at UAMS for MM patients. Another one of those crazy cancer parties. Gotta love it.
Definition: endeared to others for things they do or say to brighten your day.
Don't get your dictionary out. It isn't the true definition. I didn't like the Word for the Day today, so I chose my own and made my own definition.
I am grateful today to be able to continue to have the relationship I do with Chemo Sabe. He worries about me I think sometimes more than I do him. He worries that I mow the yard, do the extra work around the house he was so used to doing. I use it as my release valve. The physical exertion does me more good than the mental.
Today's WBC was 0.50. We are hoping for an incline tomorrow. He is hoping to ride again this weekend. He wants to go to work this week for a few hours. If he feels like it, I am all for it.
Today would have been my grandma and grandpa's wedding anniversary. They have been gone for quite some time now. They were very special to me. I told grandma once I wanted someone I could lie in bed at night and talk over the day's events and solve problems. Someone I could sleep next to and know they would be there for me throughout the night and days. When I was younger and I spent the nights with them I could hear them talking into the night. Murmuring to each other and an occasional chuckle when they spoke of something the grand kids did. I told her before she died I had that someone, just as she had in grandpa. For that, I am grateful.
God still plays games with us. He turns our stressful moments into comical ones and we realize it and laugh (sometimes). Chemo Sabe and I take turns saying the blessing at each meal. It was my turn last night. I was worn out and having my own inward pity party. He wanted soup for supper. As I sat on our couch/bed and he in his recliner, I asked him to turn down that awfully loud t.v. Isn't it always loud when you are stretched? Instead of turning it down, he tosses the remote over to me and wouldn't you know it, the damn thing landed right in the middle of my bowl of soup. Go ahead, laugh..... I had to wash the comforter.
The urgent rushes to the bathroom have ended. He is now on a strong antibiotic for an intestinal bacterial infection. The chemo can burn the inner lining and cause an infection. It is a hard pill to swallow with the size and the bitter taste, but he is taking it three times a day. We believe a big contributor to the rushes was milk. He loves cereal and had been eating graham crackers and milk, too.
I have, I think, an organized presentation of his meds. I have them in the kitchen window and I have marked the labels with permanent marker with the date started, a.m./pm. and what they are for. Also, I have on the labels -- with food - without food. It works very well. After I take out all the p.m. pills, I leave the a.m. bottles on the counter for the next morning. The a.m. bottles are on the left side of the window and the p.m. are on the right. It has become very easy to pull them down in order without reading each label. When he stops one, I put the end date on it and put the bottle in a container on top of the frig.
Another God game. I laid all the a.m. pills in a paper towel, as usual, and put them on the bar on Monday morning. When I came back through the towel was gone. After asking, I discovered the pills were not taken, but thrown away. Hence, an older nickname -- Mr. Clean.
Appetite is returning somewhat. We had fish sticks tonight and he was eating off the stove before I could get them on the plates.
Grateful -- Yes, I am grateful to God for giving us joy and laughter. I am grateful to the Church I work for because they are so understanding. I am grateful to family for their undying care for us. I am grateful to my every day friend and boss that continues to brighten my day. And, the list goes on.
Please pray for Ms. Lucy at church. She has cancer and is back in the hospital. Her family has been advised to plan for her funeral.
We love you.... Pepper
p.s. -- We are going to a movie and dinner at UAMS for MM patients. Another one of those crazy cancer parties. Gotta love it.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Remission - Word for the Day -- Sunday, June 8
Remission
Definition: A decrease in or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer. In partial remission, some, but not all, signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared. In complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared, although there still may be cancer cells present in the body. A decrease in or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer. In partial remission, some, but not all, signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared. In complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared, although there still may be cancer cells present in the body.
Stole this word this morning from Keith, our friend from Alabama that has returned for his second consolidation. We were able to visit with them before he went in to have his bag connected again. We arrived at 9:30, but didn't get to leave until after noon. Had a bag of fluid again..
One of us was crabby this morning. It was the one with the high CRP (crap). Doesn't want to eat and doesn't want to take time in the Infusion Center.
WBC is down to 0.45 and platelets down to 15. CRP up to 58, should be below 5. Remember, anything below 20 means platelet transfusion. Did get platelets this afternoon.
Diarrhea has been massive today. Cannot seem to stop it. Nothing seems to help. Nurse said today it is probably a result from the Velcade. The last chemo injection he got yesterday. -
This week will be a waiting game to see if his platelets and WBC go back up. I am hoping his appetite goes back up, too.
Remission -hope is in the future. We haven't had vomiting or any other major side affects. Maybe we will be ready for the collection of the stem cells at the end of the week.
We saw a lot of motorcycles this weekend. So many I started not looking at them. We miss riding so much.
Got to talk to the kids today. Zaner is starting to talk deeper and Big-E's sentences make more sense now. Hope it won't be long before we get to see them.
We have moved downstairs and sleeping quite well. We usually don't wake up until the alarm sounds. I took a mattress off our living room couch and put it on top of the mattress in the den. Made a huge difference and it doesn't sag.
Wish I had some joy to insert this evening, but we are both butt tired from sitting, waiting, wondering.
Thank you for your calls, email messages and cards. I will keep posting each day, if possible.
Hope to mow my yard this week... Would hate the Code Enforcer to give me another warning! ha.
Love --- Pepper
Definition: A decrease in or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer. In partial remission, some, but not all, signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared. In complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared, although there still may be cancer cells present in the body. A decrease in or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer. In partial remission, some, but not all, signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared. In complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared, although there still may be cancer cells present in the body.
Stole this word this morning from Keith, our friend from Alabama that has returned for his second consolidation. We were able to visit with them before he went in to have his bag connected again. We arrived at 9:30, but didn't get to leave until after noon. Had a bag of fluid again..
One of us was crabby this morning. It was the one with the high CRP (crap). Doesn't want to eat and doesn't want to take time in the Infusion Center.
WBC is down to 0.45 and platelets down to 15. CRP up to 58, should be below 5. Remember, anything below 20 means platelet transfusion. Did get platelets this afternoon.
Diarrhea has been massive today. Cannot seem to stop it. Nothing seems to help. Nurse said today it is probably a result from the Velcade. The last chemo injection he got yesterday. -
This week will be a waiting game to see if his platelets and WBC go back up. I am hoping his appetite goes back up, too.
Remission -hope is in the future. We haven't had vomiting or any other major side affects. Maybe we will be ready for the collection of the stem cells at the end of the week.
We saw a lot of motorcycles this weekend. So many I started not looking at them. We miss riding so much.
Got to talk to the kids today. Zaner is starting to talk deeper and Big-E's sentences make more sense now. Hope it won't be long before we get to see them.
We have moved downstairs and sleeping quite well. We usually don't wake up until the alarm sounds. I took a mattress off our living room couch and put it on top of the mattress in the den. Made a huge difference and it doesn't sag.
Wish I had some joy to insert this evening, but we are both butt tired from sitting, waiting, wondering.
Thank you for your calls, email messages and cards. I will keep posting each day, if possible.
Hope to mow my yard this week... Would hate the Code Enforcer to give me another warning! ha.
Love --- Pepper
Friday, June 6, 2008
Fallacy -- Word for the Day -- Friday, June 6, 2008
Fallacy
DEFINITION: (noun) an error in fact or logic.
Had a good night for sleep. We went to bed, on the couch, in the den at 8:00. Chemo Sabe was up and down with upset stomach, but he did get much needed rest. Got to UAMS at 9:30. As we waited we discussed our visit with the doctor scheduled for 1:00 p.m. We decided to tell her there was a fallacy in the diagnosis and the chemo cleared up whatever he may have had. No such luck.
Had to have a bag of fluid and will be having a small bag for the next two days for nausea. He has been quite lucky. He has had no vomiting. We did get out of Infusion until 12:00 so we walked over to the clinic for the doctor visit. We got a prescription for appetite and blood pressure. He has always had low readings, but they want it higher. Then she wrote and order for blood culture.
We were pooped so we took a short ride down to Sonic and got him a blizzard and I got a hamburger. That seemed to give him a boost. When we got back to the parking deck we slept in the truck for about an hour.
Back at the Infusion Center at 3:45 where they tell him he is dehydrated and his CRP is too high. They call the CRP (crap) because it means you are developing an infection. Pray we get it under control.
He has been sleeping since we got home at 6:00. Got agitated when I made him take a shower and eat a little. He admitted it made him feel better.
We saw a lot of sick people today. One woman we know was sick all night and stayed in a room all day in the clinic. Her WBC was 0.25.... Very bad.
We did find out that they hope to do the collection by the end of the week. After that, he gets another round of chemo like this week. That really depressed him. I think he had just put it out of his mind. After that and the same as what we are doing now, they will plan on the transplant.
Pray for his strength, encouragement, nourishment and for his blue eyes to twinkle again. I truly wish this were a fallacy.
Thank you all for the calls. I apologize you can't come see him right now.
Love --- Pepper
DEFINITION: (noun) an error in fact or logic.
Had a good night for sleep. We went to bed, on the couch, in the den at 8:00. Chemo Sabe was up and down with upset stomach, but he did get much needed rest. Got to UAMS at 9:30. As we waited we discussed our visit with the doctor scheduled for 1:00 p.m. We decided to tell her there was a fallacy in the diagnosis and the chemo cleared up whatever he may have had. No such luck.
Had to have a bag of fluid and will be having a small bag for the next two days for nausea. He has been quite lucky. He has had no vomiting. We did get out of Infusion until 12:00 so we walked over to the clinic for the doctor visit. We got a prescription for appetite and blood pressure. He has always had low readings, but they want it higher. Then she wrote and order for blood culture.
We were pooped so we took a short ride down to Sonic and got him a blizzard and I got a hamburger. That seemed to give him a boost. When we got back to the parking deck we slept in the truck for about an hour.
Back at the Infusion Center at 3:45 where they tell him he is dehydrated and his CRP is too high. They call the CRP (crap) because it means you are developing an infection. Pray we get it under control.
He has been sleeping since we got home at 6:00. Got agitated when I made him take a shower and eat a little. He admitted it made him feel better.
We saw a lot of sick people today. One woman we know was sick all night and stayed in a room all day in the clinic. Her WBC was 0.25.... Very bad.
We did find out that they hope to do the collection by the end of the week. After that, he gets another round of chemo like this week. That really depressed him. I think he had just put it out of his mind. After that and the same as what we are doing now, they will plan on the transplant.
Pray for his strength, encouragement, nourishment and for his blue eyes to twinkle again. I truly wish this were a fallacy.
Thank you all for the calls. I apologize you can't come see him right now.
Love --- Pepper
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Incorrigible -- Word for the Day - Thursday, June 5, 2008
Incorrigible
DEFINITION: (adjective) impossible to manage or reform
Each day patients with MM go into the Infusion area to get chemo bags changed, lab drawn, blood transfusions, etc. This area is a room with recliners in a horseshoe arrangement around the wall and the 'inside' of the horseshoe. The recliners are about 4 ft. from each other. Enough room for the caregiver to sit with the patient. Usually a very quiet area with each nurse having about two patients each. You do hear laughter.
Well, Chemo Sabe dealt with a nurse he believed was incorrigible yesterday. She was loud, mouthy, negative and annoying. She was not his nurse for the day, but she was in the area. He had enough so he told her he was sick, had a headache and would appreciate it if she would quieten down because she was depressing him. It seemed to do the trick. If he does that, then you know he is not feeling well.
Hemoglobin was very low yesterday so he had a blood transfusion of two units. He was very weak when leaving the house. Appointment was for 9:30. After the transfusions, an hour for each bag, he ended up getting home at 6:00 p.m. , but he had a little more energy. Enough to go straight to his recliner and sit the rest of the evening.
Did not sleep well because of the immediate drop from the steroid. After taking his temp of 100.6 at 2:30 a.m. I contacted the doctor. Was not urgent so she advised we could wait until our appointment this morning, 9:30 a.m. We were given a tube of liquid antibiotic to be inserted into his IV port that is still in his juggler. If he goes over 101 I will have to hook him up to the med.
He is nutrapenic beginning today. That means his white blood count (WBC) is low enough he could get an infection very easily. He will have to wear a mask at the hospital and in public. He cannot eat from buffets, have fresh fruits and a variety of other rules we have to follow. This means no physical contact (hugs/kisses) and the dogs will be confined to an area he will not be entering. They will be very upset....so will he.
The WBC will be coming back up mid-week, but then drop even lower. When they start to peak the second time the stem cell process will begin. The sucking out is the first step. Hopefully next Saturday, June 14.
We started two visits a day today for a growth factor shot. This helps to produce new bone marrow. A side effect is aching in his bones (ribs, legs, arms, back). The nurse today explained it as a GOOD hurt. To imagine his WBC jumping and hopping around in his bone marrow and singing "We are making bone marrow, we are making bone marrow". You should have seen her waving her hands in the air like she don't care... na, na, na... Word Up! Excuse me... that was a song Chemo Sabe and I use to dance to.
He was very weak this morning, but seemed better when we came back home. He had a good nap and we are preparing to head back to UAMS.
PRAISE -- his wrist is not swollen. He has feeling in his index and middle finger again. He has good motion. We think it was the exercise he got from riding his motorcycle last week! ha
Please continue your prayers. Pray specifically today for Billy and Sherry from Alabama. He started his bag the same day as Chemo Sabe. He is the one that had the hiccups, too. His remedy was drinking water upside down. Cured them immediately. We still have them with meds. Anyway, his MM is in his kidneys. Not good. But, they laugh with us and also have good spirits.
We love you all....... Pepper (alias, Tonto)
p.s. We asked for black masks today, we got white. bummer!
DEFINITION: (adjective) impossible to manage or reform
Each day patients with MM go into the Infusion area to get chemo bags changed, lab drawn, blood transfusions, etc. This area is a room with recliners in a horseshoe arrangement around the wall and the 'inside' of the horseshoe. The recliners are about 4 ft. from each other. Enough room for the caregiver to sit with the patient. Usually a very quiet area with each nurse having about two patients each. You do hear laughter.
Well, Chemo Sabe dealt with a nurse he believed was incorrigible yesterday. She was loud, mouthy, negative and annoying. She was not his nurse for the day, but she was in the area. He had enough so he told her he was sick, had a headache and would appreciate it if she would quieten down because she was depressing him. It seemed to do the trick. If he does that, then you know he is not feeling well.
Hemoglobin was very low yesterday so he had a blood transfusion of two units. He was very weak when leaving the house. Appointment was for 9:30. After the transfusions, an hour for each bag, he ended up getting home at 6:00 p.m. , but he had a little more energy. Enough to go straight to his recliner and sit the rest of the evening.
Did not sleep well because of the immediate drop from the steroid. After taking his temp of 100.6 at 2:30 a.m. I contacted the doctor. Was not urgent so she advised we could wait until our appointment this morning, 9:30 a.m. We were given a tube of liquid antibiotic to be inserted into his IV port that is still in his juggler. If he goes over 101 I will have to hook him up to the med.
He is nutrapenic beginning today. That means his white blood count (WBC) is low enough he could get an infection very easily. He will have to wear a mask at the hospital and in public. He cannot eat from buffets, have fresh fruits and a variety of other rules we have to follow. This means no physical contact (hugs/kisses) and the dogs will be confined to an area he will not be entering. They will be very upset....so will he.
The WBC will be coming back up mid-week, but then drop even lower. When they start to peak the second time the stem cell process will begin. The sucking out is the first step. Hopefully next Saturday, June 14.
We started two visits a day today for a growth factor shot. This helps to produce new bone marrow. A side effect is aching in his bones (ribs, legs, arms, back). The nurse today explained it as a GOOD hurt. To imagine his WBC jumping and hopping around in his bone marrow and singing "We are making bone marrow, we are making bone marrow". You should have seen her waving her hands in the air like she don't care... na, na, na... Word Up! Excuse me... that was a song Chemo Sabe and I use to dance to.
He was very weak this morning, but seemed better when we came back home. He had a good nap and we are preparing to head back to UAMS.
PRAISE -- his wrist is not swollen. He has feeling in his index and middle finger again. He has good motion. We think it was the exercise he got from riding his motorcycle last week! ha
Please continue your prayers. Pray specifically today for Billy and Sherry from Alabama. He started his bag the same day as Chemo Sabe. He is the one that had the hiccups, too. His remedy was drinking water upside down. Cured them immediately. We still have them with meds. Anyway, his MM is in his kidneys. Not good. But, they laugh with us and also have good spirits.
We love you all....... Pepper (alias, Tonto)
p.s. We asked for black masks today, we got white. bummer!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Proximity -- Word for the Day -- Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Proximity
DEFINITION: (noun) the state, quality, sense, or fact of being near.
If any of you are control freaks like me you will understand a big portion of my notes for today. Proximity --- fact of being near. I have not been to Chemo Sabe's treatments the last two days and it has put me in a state of despair (my opinion), because I have not been able to control how he feels, new things that are coming, I am not the first to know, etc.
Another morning of nausea and dizziness. Last day of the steroids so tomorrow will be worse. Sister is taking him again tomorrow and she is more prepared. It is a very humbling experience to see your spouse, your brother or a very close person feeling weak. Someone who has always been strong physically and mentally. He is very physically mental, but tired.
Today marks a day of downhill progression. He admits it. White blood count was 5.76. Our new report today indicates he will be 1.0 by next Tuesday. Very susceptible to infection in any form or fashion. He will be nutrapenic. We will be in a confined state.
It was a very long day for him with two more prescriptions ordered and getting home in mid afternoon with a 9:30 a.m. appt. He didn't get his bag changed until 11:30. The days were miscalculated so the bag doesn't come off until tomorrow.
We had a good meal of baked cod, Brussels sprouts, rice and bread sticks with fresh apple tea. He ate well, but his appetite is dwindling. The only thing excessive are those darn hiccups. He still can't shake them and is taking one every six hours.
The induction should begin some time next week. It is coming upon us quickly. I am calling in my volunteer ladies at church to answer the phones for me at church. I plan to bring my laptop to UAMS and do my bulletins, prayer lists, sermon notes and other things and then run them in the office. There I go again, control. And, Proximity.
He has gained up to 239, which is 8 lb. since Saturday. He doesn't need any more fluid, but should be losing after this last set up pills tonight. The only ones after that are anti-fungal and anti-biotic. The other are injected at the hospital.
I am glad he got to spend the day alone with Sister. They both got in trouble for not asking about something that was on the note I sent with them. Those darn kids, I will have to just take care of it myself.
Well, Chemo Sabe is summonings me. Guess I better hit the rack.
Pray for us tonight. Pray we have continued strength and continued good attitudes. Pray specifically for my control. That I might better trust others to do just as perfect as I do and if they don't , pray I keep my mouth shut! Love .... Pepper
DEFINITION: (noun) the state, quality, sense, or fact of being near.
If any of you are control freaks like me you will understand a big portion of my notes for today. Proximity --- fact of being near. I have not been to Chemo Sabe's treatments the last two days and it has put me in a state of despair (my opinion), because I have not been able to control how he feels, new things that are coming, I am not the first to know, etc.
Another morning of nausea and dizziness. Last day of the steroids so tomorrow will be worse. Sister is taking him again tomorrow and she is more prepared. It is a very humbling experience to see your spouse, your brother or a very close person feeling weak. Someone who has always been strong physically and mentally. He is very physically mental, but tired.
Today marks a day of downhill progression. He admits it. White blood count was 5.76. Our new report today indicates he will be 1.0 by next Tuesday. Very susceptible to infection in any form or fashion. He will be nutrapenic. We will be in a confined state.
It was a very long day for him with two more prescriptions ordered and getting home in mid afternoon with a 9:30 a.m. appt. He didn't get his bag changed until 11:30. The days were miscalculated so the bag doesn't come off until tomorrow.
We had a good meal of baked cod, Brussels sprouts, rice and bread sticks with fresh apple tea. He ate well, but his appetite is dwindling. The only thing excessive are those darn hiccups. He still can't shake them and is taking one every six hours.
The induction should begin some time next week. It is coming upon us quickly. I am calling in my volunteer ladies at church to answer the phones for me at church. I plan to bring my laptop to UAMS and do my bulletins, prayer lists, sermon notes and other things and then run them in the office. There I go again, control. And, Proximity.
He has gained up to 239, which is 8 lb. since Saturday. He doesn't need any more fluid, but should be losing after this last set up pills tonight. The only ones after that are anti-fungal and anti-biotic. The other are injected at the hospital.
I am glad he got to spend the day alone with Sister. They both got in trouble for not asking about something that was on the note I sent with them. Those darn kids, I will have to just take care of it myself.
Well, Chemo Sabe is summonings me. Guess I better hit the rack.
Pray for us tonight. Pray we have continued strength and continued good attitudes. Pray specifically for my control. That I might better trust others to do just as perfect as I do and if they don't , pray I keep my mouth shut! Love .... Pepper
Monday, June 2, 2008
Purify - Word for the Day - Monday, June 2, 2008
Purify
DEFINITION: (verb) to make pure, clean, or perfect.
Can't believe it is June and we only have six months to Christmas. Don't you dislike those guys that write "Xmas"? It makes me think they are x-ing out Christ. Purify ... isn't that what He did to us?
Had another morning with slight nausea and small hangover. He felt like driving himself to UAMS for his bag change. After a much, none too pleasant conversation, I headed on out to work. He did, bless his heart, make his 9:30 on time. And, came by work for a visit before coming home. He received some stronger anti-nausea meds along with his daily blood thinner shot in the stomach and a bag change out. His sis, Treesie, will be taking him tomorrow. He gets disconnected from the big bag then.
We will be crashing the end of the week because tomorrow is also the last day for the steroid. Gosh, I was truly enjoying his loading and unloading the dishwasher. He has had so much energy. He is still laughing with great spirit. He continues to bring a smile to my face when I start to feel he is coming down.
Platelets were low today, but that is to be expected. They will be getting a lot lower. They were 54,000 yesterday. If we go below 20k it will be transfusion time.
In about 14 days the first phase of the purifying will begin. His immune system will be at its lowest. It will be mask time. I believe we should ask if they have black masks so he will be the true "Chemo Sabe". But, then, I couldn't send him to the bank or grocery store.
No swelling today. His wrist even looks normal. So normal we believe he might be able to put his wedding band back on for a little bit.
Your prayers are working. All of them. Pray for our others friends, too, in the MM center. I don't hear their complaints, I hear their victories. Reminds me again of Bro. Ken's sermon a few weeks ago I mentioned before -- "Why Count Your Blessings When You Can Complain?". Gosh, I needed to remember that this morning. If I had remembered and prayed, I, too, would have been purified for the day. Instead, I complained. Thank you KJ.
Good evening... Love, Pepper
DEFINITION: (verb) to make pure, clean, or perfect.
Can't believe it is June and we only have six months to Christmas. Don't you dislike those guys that write "Xmas"? It makes me think they are x-ing out Christ. Purify ... isn't that what He did to us?
Had another morning with slight nausea and small hangover. He felt like driving himself to UAMS for his bag change. After a much, none too pleasant conversation, I headed on out to work. He did, bless his heart, make his 9:30 on time. And, came by work for a visit before coming home. He received some stronger anti-nausea meds along with his daily blood thinner shot in the stomach and a bag change out. His sis, Treesie, will be taking him tomorrow. He gets disconnected from the big bag then.
We will be crashing the end of the week because tomorrow is also the last day for the steroid. Gosh, I was truly enjoying his loading and unloading the dishwasher. He has had so much energy. He is still laughing with great spirit. He continues to bring a smile to my face when I start to feel he is coming down.
Platelets were low today, but that is to be expected. They will be getting a lot lower. They were 54,000 yesterday. If we go below 20k it will be transfusion time.
In about 14 days the first phase of the purifying will begin. His immune system will be at its lowest. It will be mask time. I believe we should ask if they have black masks so he will be the true "Chemo Sabe". But, then, I couldn't send him to the bank or grocery store.
No swelling today. His wrist even looks normal. So normal we believe he might be able to put his wedding band back on for a little bit.
Your prayers are working. All of them. Pray for our others friends, too, in the MM center. I don't hear their complaints, I hear their victories. Reminds me again of Bro. Ken's sermon a few weeks ago I mentioned before -- "Why Count Your Blessings When You Can Complain?". Gosh, I needed to remember that this morning. If I had remembered and prayed, I, too, would have been purified for the day. Instead, I complained. Thank you KJ.
Good evening... Love, Pepper
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Irrational - Word for the Day -- Sunday, June 1, 2008
Irrational
DEFINITION: (adjective) not endowed with reason.
Long day! Chemo Sabe just couldn't seem to get out of bed this morning. We wanted to be at UAMS by 8:30. We left here at 9:00. He had nausea and a hang over. I had already guessed it was from the Thalidomide. He wanted to stop at Krispy Kreme to get the RN from yesterday her donuts so I thought, we are already late, why not? She was thrilled, so the extra stop was worth it.
The bag started beeping this morning around 4:00. He never heard it because he was so sound asleep. He had rolled over and crimped the tube. It was okay until around 10:00 when the bag emptied. We were in the waiting room so I took the battery out. We got into clinic, had blood drawn, dressing change, flushes, and a new bag. Plus, he got two nausea pills.
We met some good people today. We heard some insurance horror stories. We can relate. We also heard a story that was very irrational. A nurse came out and announced that someone's purse was stolen yesterday in the waiting room. This is a place where there are numerous recliners, a television, a table with a puzzle, coffee center and some snacks for the patients that need a lift. The nurses even bring out warm blankets for the patients dealing with chills, etc. A rest haven, if you will, for the long waiting periods each day. Special for the MM patients only.
A caregiver went over to assist someone having problems with a bag beeping and when she did a man took a blanket, wrapped her purse in it and left. Irrational. He had been changing chairs and looking for the right opportuntity. It hasn't been the first time.
We got a report of Chemo Sabe lab from yesterday. We get one each day from the day before. We compared them and his counts are coming up. But, don't be excited. They will be dropping drastically before the week is up. He gets his bag off on Wednesday and we wait. We see the doctor again on Friday.
We were both worn out when we left. I have been fighting off a migraine since Friday. We agreed to coming home and taking a nap instead of going to Wal-Mart. We didn't leave UAMS until 11:50 so we missed church. He had wanted to still go even if we left at 11:00.
Well, we did lie down. He did after he unloaded and loaded the dishwasher and made himself some boiled eggs. Morning steriods kicking in. We had only been down about 30 minutes when UAMS called and needed us to return. His lab came back bad. His hemoglobin was below 6. Off we went after getting $90 worth of gas and running through the car wash. On the interstate we hit a rain cloud.
It was storming nicely when we arrived. The clinic wasn't too crowded and we got to fill out our first green slip. An indication we were 'returning' patients.. We arrived at 2:50 and we were out of there by 3:30. His labs were okay. They figured when the test was run it got clotted in the cyclinder and couldn't be tested.
Chemo Sabe had the hiccups all day. Uncontrollable. Irrational, if you may. On our last visit today I made a mental note to ask the nurse about it. Probably nothing, you would think. There was another gentleman there that stared hiccuping, too. So, when the nurse gave us the okay to leave I told her about it. She advised us it is a common side affect of the chemo. So, she hooked us up to a prescription along with the other guy. Never know with these chemo kids.
We finally got settled in again after some sandwiches and potato soup. I finally took something for my headache, so I need to go down and check on him. He is too quiet.
Oh, one final note. Chemo Sabe has been seeing a lot of people wearing buttons with "Myleloma Sucks" on them. Our nurse today, Madaline (Maddie for short) had one on and he asked her about it. She tells us there is a patient from Louisiana that has them made. We met him during the first bone biopsy. The nurse give Chemo Sabe the pin. That is another special way the UAMS people are.
Good night --- Pepper
DEFINITION: (adjective) not endowed with reason.
Long day! Chemo Sabe just couldn't seem to get out of bed this morning. We wanted to be at UAMS by 8:30. We left here at 9:00. He had nausea and a hang over. I had already guessed it was from the Thalidomide. He wanted to stop at Krispy Kreme to get the RN from yesterday her donuts so I thought, we are already late, why not? She was thrilled, so the extra stop was worth it.
The bag started beeping this morning around 4:00. He never heard it because he was so sound asleep. He had rolled over and crimped the tube. It was okay until around 10:00 when the bag emptied. We were in the waiting room so I took the battery out. We got into clinic, had blood drawn, dressing change, flushes, and a new bag. Plus, he got two nausea pills.
We met some good people today. We heard some insurance horror stories. We can relate. We also heard a story that was very irrational. A nurse came out and announced that someone's purse was stolen yesterday in the waiting room. This is a place where there are numerous recliners, a television, a table with a puzzle, coffee center and some snacks for the patients that need a lift. The nurses even bring out warm blankets for the patients dealing with chills, etc. A rest haven, if you will, for the long waiting periods each day. Special for the MM patients only.
A caregiver went over to assist someone having problems with a bag beeping and when she did a man took a blanket, wrapped her purse in it and left. Irrational. He had been changing chairs and looking for the right opportuntity. It hasn't been the first time.
We got a report of Chemo Sabe lab from yesterday. We get one each day from the day before. We compared them and his counts are coming up. But, don't be excited. They will be dropping drastically before the week is up. He gets his bag off on Wednesday and we wait. We see the doctor again on Friday.
We were both worn out when we left. I have been fighting off a migraine since Friday. We agreed to coming home and taking a nap instead of going to Wal-Mart. We didn't leave UAMS until 11:50 so we missed church. He had wanted to still go even if we left at 11:00.
Well, we did lie down. He did after he unloaded and loaded the dishwasher and made himself some boiled eggs. Morning steriods kicking in. We had only been down about 30 minutes when UAMS called and needed us to return. His lab came back bad. His hemoglobin was below 6. Off we went after getting $90 worth of gas and running through the car wash. On the interstate we hit a rain cloud.
It was storming nicely when we arrived. The clinic wasn't too crowded and we got to fill out our first green slip. An indication we were 'returning' patients.. We arrived at 2:50 and we were out of there by 3:30. His labs were okay. They figured when the test was run it got clotted in the cyclinder and couldn't be tested.
Chemo Sabe had the hiccups all day. Uncontrollable. Irrational, if you may. On our last visit today I made a mental note to ask the nurse about it. Probably nothing, you would think. There was another gentleman there that stared hiccuping, too. So, when the nurse gave us the okay to leave I told her about it. She advised us it is a common side affect of the chemo. So, she hooked us up to a prescription along with the other guy. Never know with these chemo kids.
We finally got settled in again after some sandwiches and potato soup. I finally took something for my headache, so I need to go down and check on him. He is too quiet.
Oh, one final note. Chemo Sabe has been seeing a lot of people wearing buttons with "Myleloma Sucks" on them. Our nurse today, Madaline (Maddie for short) had one on and he asked her about it. She tells us there is a patient from Louisiana that has them made. We met him during the first bone biopsy. The nurse give Chemo Sabe the pin. That is another special way the UAMS people are.
Good night --- Pepper
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