Hello one and all,
First and foremost, Mom (Grandma Ava) celebrated her 91st birthday this past Saturday. Karen as usual spoiled her Mom on this special day and Mom received many cards and gifts from many family members. Although she won't admit it, she had a great time hitting the big "91."
Anyhow, Karen started her sixth cycle of chemo this past week. Karen's blood counts are always well within the appropriate ranges to have the chemo. Karen's cancer markers are decreasing but not as fast as the doctor would like. Karen saw her oncologist yesterday and he will extend her chemo regimen for two more cycles. So Karen will receive the same chemo treatment during the months of October and November. He also told Karen to expect another PET scan in November. To say the least, Karen was not thrilled about having another PET scan. Oh well, time will tell how the additional treatments go for Karen.
When she is not busy with doctor appointments, blood tests or chemo treatments, Karen stays busy with housework, yard work, woodworking, exercising or just "hanging out and doing NOTHING."
Karen and her Mom again express their heartfelt thanks to everybody for the phone calls, and most definitely your prayers and thoughts. Thank you and may the good Lord take care each and every one of you in a very special way.
Tip of the Blog: Whose life can you influence today with a genuine smile? Smiling back at you!!!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Monday, August 12, 2013
A gigantic hello to one and all,
First and foremost, we our sorry for not posting since June 29. During the month of July Karen finished her fourth cycle of the chemotherapy treatment and had a PET scan. Karen's cancer has remained the same since starting the chemo in April but she keeps an upbeat attitude about her life and treatment. When she was not busy with blood tests, chemotherapy treatments and doctor visits, Karen stayed busy in July (even while the weather was in the 100s) completing a couple woodworking projects (rebuilt a record cabinet for her older sister, Anne, and constructed a coffee table for her younger sister, Teresa). Both projects turned out very nice and the family members were extremely pleased with the furniture.
During the first week of August Karen celebrated her 61st birthday with family members and also started her fifth cycle of the chemo regimen. Like in the past, the nurses are still scrambling and yes, the sessions are still lasting a minimum of 2 to 3 hours. Of course Karen is thankful she is not receiving transfusions or other medications as some of the patients are in the infusion center for over 4 hours and longer. Like in the past, something humorous always happens with Karen and the nurses. This past month was no exception. Karen has been dubbed "Ms. Glitchy." Prior to any medications or chemo being administered, the patient's temperature is taken as a precautionary measure. At the second session of the fourth cycle, the nurse (Barbara) took Karen's temperature four times orally. The readings vary from 91 to 100. The nurse settled on a temperature between 98 and 99. Thinking this was an isolated incident, the following week, the nurse (Jessica) using an oral thermometer had to take it twice as the machine was not reading anything until it was taken out of the mouth. When Karen went for her doctor visit, the nurse (Marisa) using an oral thermometer again took it twice and informed Karen that the thermometer was not indicating any temperature at all. The nurse decided to set the machine down and advised Karen she would take it later. While it sat on the counter, believe it or not, the thermometer flashed a reading. It was 98.2. Believing that the medical staff had their thermometers fixed, Karen went in for her first session of the fifth cycle. You guessed it. When the nurse, Ivah, placed the oral thermometer in Karen's mouth, there was no reading. She repeated the process and there was no reading. As the nurse could clearly see, Karen was still breathing and laughing and shaking her head in disbelief. Karen then told the nurse about the previous episodes with the nurses and the thermometers. And yes, after taking the thermometer out of the mouth, and waiting a few seconds, the thermometer read 98.3. Karen did not like the nurses' backup plans of taking a "rectal" reading. Anyhow, Karen is praying that everything will go okay this week. Wish her luck as rectal reading are not funny.
Anyhow, Karen and her Mom are thankful for your prayers and thoughts and likewise keep you in their daily prayers and thoughts. May the good Lord bless you all and keep you happy and healthy.
Tip of the blog: Everyday, we carry many crosses. Sometimes, the cross is a little more than we can carry. Remember, to thank the "Simon" who came along and assisted you with your cross. Even Jesus Christ had to have a Simon help him with his cross.
First and foremost, we our sorry for not posting since June 29. During the month of July Karen finished her fourth cycle of the chemotherapy treatment and had a PET scan. Karen's cancer has remained the same since starting the chemo in April but she keeps an upbeat attitude about her life and treatment. When she was not busy with blood tests, chemotherapy treatments and doctor visits, Karen stayed busy in July (even while the weather was in the 100s) completing a couple woodworking projects (rebuilt a record cabinet for her older sister, Anne, and constructed a coffee table for her younger sister, Teresa). Both projects turned out very nice and the family members were extremely pleased with the furniture.
During the first week of August Karen celebrated her 61st birthday with family members and also started her fifth cycle of the chemo regimen. Like in the past, the nurses are still scrambling and yes, the sessions are still lasting a minimum of 2 to 3 hours. Of course Karen is thankful she is not receiving transfusions or other medications as some of the patients are in the infusion center for over 4 hours and longer. Like in the past, something humorous always happens with Karen and the nurses. This past month was no exception. Karen has been dubbed "Ms. Glitchy." Prior to any medications or chemo being administered, the patient's temperature is taken as a precautionary measure. At the second session of the fourth cycle, the nurse (Barbara) took Karen's temperature four times orally. The readings vary from 91 to 100. The nurse settled on a temperature between 98 and 99. Thinking this was an isolated incident, the following week, the nurse (Jessica) using an oral thermometer had to take it twice as the machine was not reading anything until it was taken out of the mouth. When Karen went for her doctor visit, the nurse (Marisa) using an oral thermometer again took it twice and informed Karen that the thermometer was not indicating any temperature at all. The nurse decided to set the machine down and advised Karen she would take it later. While it sat on the counter, believe it or not, the thermometer flashed a reading. It was 98.2. Believing that the medical staff had their thermometers fixed, Karen went in for her first session of the fifth cycle. You guessed it. When the nurse, Ivah, placed the oral thermometer in Karen's mouth, there was no reading. She repeated the process and there was no reading. As the nurse could clearly see, Karen was still breathing and laughing and shaking her head in disbelief. Karen then told the nurse about the previous episodes with the nurses and the thermometers. And yes, after taking the thermometer out of the mouth, and waiting a few seconds, the thermometer read 98.3. Karen did not like the nurses' backup plans of taking a "rectal" reading. Anyhow, Karen is praying that everything will go okay this week. Wish her luck as rectal reading are not funny.
Anyhow, Karen and her Mom are thankful for your prayers and thoughts and likewise keep you in their daily prayers and thoughts. May the good Lord bless you all and keep you happy and healthy.
Tip of the blog: Everyday, we carry many crosses. Sometimes, the cross is a little more than we can carry. Remember, to thank the "Simon" who came along and assisted you with your cross. Even Jesus Christ had to have a Simon help him with his cross.
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Hello to one and all,
Well, this past month Karen completed her third cycle of six chemotherapy treatments. Yippee!!! As previously written, the hospital transitioning is still experiencing some delays with the patients. Karen has met a new staff of nurses in the infusion center and the nurses are getting acquainted with Karen's sense of humor. As an example, when the nurse is ready to infuse the patient with their chemo, the nurse will verify the patient's name and DOB. Of course this question is asked while you are under the influence of Benadryl. On the last chemo session Karen had this past Thursday, Karen decided to tell the nurse that the wrist band Karen was wearing did not have her correct name on it. The name on the wrist band said "NERAK, KRALC." To say the least the nurse stopped and there was dead silence. Karen started laughing and told the nurse that she was mistaken as Karen was reading the name upside down. The nurse (Linda) began to laugh also and told Karen that it was unnecessary to verify her name and DOB. Although the chemo sessions are to last only an hour and a half, the sessions have lasted closer to three hours because one of the medication is taking at least 40 minutes to be dispense through the IV.
Karen is delighted that her blood counts are well within the acceptable limits and her cancer markers appear to be decreasing instead of increasing. Karen saw her oncologist also this month and he advised Karen that he wanted another PET scan done. So during the month of July Karen will have a PET scan. Karen is not experiencing any serious side effects with the chemo treatment.
During the month of June, Karen and her mom were treated to the services of a personal chef, who came to their home and prepared five meals. This gift/service was paid by Karen's sister-in-law Joanne, who wanted to surprise Mom and Karen. Yes, the food was very delicious and the chef, Perry, was a delightful and energetic character. Additionally, Karen's niece, Lindsay, married her sweetheart, Ryne, on the 15th in San Francisco. Although Karen and her mom did not attend the wedding, their heartfelt wishes and prayers were sent to the newlyweds via other family members. Karen and her mom also had some family visits and calls. Karen and her mom stay busy with yard work and other domestic duties. Karen is completing some woodworking projects for two of her sisters. Hopefully, the projects will be completed before the end of July. Anyhow, Karen and her mom send big hugs and love to all the readers of this blog. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Tip of the Blog: Even though your life's journey maybe long, your angelic friends make sure you never travel it alone. Please love God and your life.
Well, this past month Karen completed her third cycle of six chemotherapy treatments. Yippee!!! As previously written, the hospital transitioning is still experiencing some delays with the patients. Karen has met a new staff of nurses in the infusion center and the nurses are getting acquainted with Karen's sense of humor. As an example, when the nurse is ready to infuse the patient with their chemo, the nurse will verify the patient's name and DOB. Of course this question is asked while you are under the influence of Benadryl. On the last chemo session Karen had this past Thursday, Karen decided to tell the nurse that the wrist band Karen was wearing did not have her correct name on it. The name on the wrist band said "NERAK, KRALC." To say the least the nurse stopped and there was dead silence. Karen started laughing and told the nurse that she was mistaken as Karen was reading the name upside down. The nurse (Linda) began to laugh also and told Karen that it was unnecessary to verify her name and DOB. Although the chemo sessions are to last only an hour and a half, the sessions have lasted closer to three hours because one of the medication is taking at least 40 minutes to be dispense through the IV.
Karen is delighted that her blood counts are well within the acceptable limits and her cancer markers appear to be decreasing instead of increasing. Karen saw her oncologist also this month and he advised Karen that he wanted another PET scan done. So during the month of July Karen will have a PET scan. Karen is not experiencing any serious side effects with the chemo treatment.
During the month of June, Karen and her mom were treated to the services of a personal chef, who came to their home and prepared five meals. This gift/service was paid by Karen's sister-in-law Joanne, who wanted to surprise Mom and Karen. Yes, the food was very delicious and the chef, Perry, was a delightful and energetic character. Additionally, Karen's niece, Lindsay, married her sweetheart, Ryne, on the 15th in San Francisco. Although Karen and her mom did not attend the wedding, their heartfelt wishes and prayers were sent to the newlyweds via other family members. Karen and her mom also had some family visits and calls. Karen and her mom stay busy with yard work and other domestic duties. Karen is completing some woodworking projects for two of her sisters. Hopefully, the projects will be completed before the end of July. Anyhow, Karen and her mom send big hugs and love to all the readers of this blog. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Tip of the Blog: Even though your life's journey maybe long, your angelic friends make sure you never travel it alone. Please love God and your life.
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Hello one and all,
Well, a belated Memorial Day greetings to all of our military people especially our veterans. This past Thursday (May 30) Karen finished her second cycle of a six cycle chemotherapy treatment program. As you know, a cycle is when Karen receives her chemo treatment of Taxol three weeks in a row and then has a week off. Although the session which includes the pre-medications is supposed to last only an hour and a half, the sessions have been lasting almost three hours. Karen as well as the other patients have discovered that the hospital has made the process more time consuming. Even though Karen's appointment was at 3:00PM this past Thursday, the nurse did not call her name until after 3:30PM. The week prior Karen again waited a half hour after her appointed time and after she was prepared for everything, the nurse informed Karen that she (nurse) was waiting for the medications and the Taxol to be delivered from the hospital. The items eventually arrived almost thirty minutes later. Karen noticed the nurses seem more upset and not happy with the new procedures. Additionally, it is a new group of nurses so Karen is trying to get to know them better.
As far as side effects, Karen is only experiencing a little insomnia on the day of the chemo as one of the medications does cause temporary insomnia. Karen still has the neuropathy in her fingertips but takes glutamine and a B-complex to help with that issue. Karen is slowly losing (more like thinning) her hair again. Her blood counts are okay, however, her cancer marker was elevated after this last blood draw. Although Karen was not happy with that result, she is keeping a positive outlook and is enjoying doing some of her hobbies (yard work, woodworking, etc.). Anyhow, Karen and her mom want to thank everybody for keeping them in your thoughts and prayers. Thanks.
Tip of the Blog: Keep a smile on your face and say a little prayer for that special military person in your life (living or deceased).
Well, a belated Memorial Day greetings to all of our military people especially our veterans. This past Thursday (May 30) Karen finished her second cycle of a six cycle chemotherapy treatment program. As you know, a cycle is when Karen receives her chemo treatment of Taxol three weeks in a row and then has a week off. Although the session which includes the pre-medications is supposed to last only an hour and a half, the sessions have been lasting almost three hours. Karen as well as the other patients have discovered that the hospital has made the process more time consuming. Even though Karen's appointment was at 3:00PM this past Thursday, the nurse did not call her name until after 3:30PM. The week prior Karen again waited a half hour after her appointed time and after she was prepared for everything, the nurse informed Karen that she (nurse) was waiting for the medications and the Taxol to be delivered from the hospital. The items eventually arrived almost thirty minutes later. Karen noticed the nurses seem more upset and not happy with the new procedures. Additionally, it is a new group of nurses so Karen is trying to get to know them better.
As far as side effects, Karen is only experiencing a little insomnia on the day of the chemo as one of the medications does cause temporary insomnia. Karen still has the neuropathy in her fingertips but takes glutamine and a B-complex to help with that issue. Karen is slowly losing (more like thinning) her hair again. Her blood counts are okay, however, her cancer marker was elevated after this last blood draw. Although Karen was not happy with that result, she is keeping a positive outlook and is enjoying doing some of her hobbies (yard work, woodworking, etc.). Anyhow, Karen and her mom want to thank everybody for keeping them in your thoughts and prayers. Thanks.
Tip of the Blog: Keep a smile on your face and say a little prayer for that special military person in your life (living or deceased).
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Hello to all "Chippers Journey" readers,
Well, Karen finished her first of six cycles of the Taxol chemo treatments this past Thursday (May2). She will not be receiving any treatment this week, which she is very happy about. Luckily, Karen's is not experiencing the harsh side effects like she did last year. She still has the neuropathy in her finger tips and the balls of the feet. One of the pre-meds she is given before the chemo has caused a little bit of insomnia, especially on the night of the treatment but Karen is dealing with it by sleeping in late the following day. Overall, Karen is feeling pretty well and has a very upbeat attitude regarding this new journey.
As reported in the last writing, the infusion center that Karen goes to will be under the auspices of the hospital. As such, there is more paperwork that must be completed by the cancer patients before the treatment can begin or services can be rendered. Yes, you guessed it. All of that information is then entered into the computer by the nurses and other staff personnel. To ensure that the computer system was operating correctly or accurately, Karen was selected, not by choice mind you, to test their computer equipment. Being the guinea pig for this project, the new protocol requires the cancer patient to wear a hospital wrist band. In addition to the patient's name, the band also has a bar code. The nurse, who was carrying a portable computer with a scanning port came over to test it. Standing by was their IT individual. After several attempts of trying to scan the band, you guessed it, it did not work. To say the least the IT guy was not happy. The nurse went back and retrieved a handheld scanner and tried again. After a couple of attempts and the sound of a beep, the nurse went back to the desk computer and replied, "You are now in the system." Karen remarked back, "Is that better than being on a LIST?" Of course everybody had a good chuckle except the IT guy, who was still trying to get the portable computer to work. Karen is praying that when she starts her second cycle, the system will run a little bit smoother and not appear so chaotic.
Lastly, Karen and her mom wanted to extend their heartfelt thanks to their East Coast cousin/niece, Jamie, who lives with her husband in North Carolina, for her participation in the Relay for Life event on May 3 and for honoring several family members (our grandmother, Jamie's father, an uncle and Karen's brother) who died of cancer. Thank you Jamie.
Tip of the Blog: Today and everyday, use your senses to re-discover the magnificent splendor of your life's blessings.
Well, Karen finished her first of six cycles of the Taxol chemo treatments this past Thursday (May2). She will not be receiving any treatment this week, which she is very happy about. Luckily, Karen's is not experiencing the harsh side effects like she did last year. She still has the neuropathy in her finger tips and the balls of the feet. One of the pre-meds she is given before the chemo has caused a little bit of insomnia, especially on the night of the treatment but Karen is dealing with it by sleeping in late the following day. Overall, Karen is feeling pretty well and has a very upbeat attitude regarding this new journey.
As reported in the last writing, the infusion center that Karen goes to will be under the auspices of the hospital. As such, there is more paperwork that must be completed by the cancer patients before the treatment can begin or services can be rendered. Yes, you guessed it. All of that information is then entered into the computer by the nurses and other staff personnel. To ensure that the computer system was operating correctly or accurately, Karen was selected, not by choice mind you, to test their computer equipment. Being the guinea pig for this project, the new protocol requires the cancer patient to wear a hospital wrist band. In addition to the patient's name, the band also has a bar code. The nurse, who was carrying a portable computer with a scanning port came over to test it. Standing by was their IT individual. After several attempts of trying to scan the band, you guessed it, it did not work. To say the least the IT guy was not happy. The nurse went back and retrieved a handheld scanner and tried again. After a couple of attempts and the sound of a beep, the nurse went back to the desk computer and replied, "You are now in the system." Karen remarked back, "Is that better than being on a LIST?" Of course everybody had a good chuckle except the IT guy, who was still trying to get the portable computer to work. Karen is praying that when she starts her second cycle, the system will run a little bit smoother and not appear so chaotic.
Lastly, Karen and her mom wanted to extend their heartfelt thanks to their East Coast cousin/niece, Jamie, who lives with her husband in North Carolina, for her participation in the Relay for Life event on May 3 and for honoring several family members (our grandmother, Jamie's father, an uncle and Karen's brother) who died of cancer. Thank you Jamie.
Tip of the Blog: Today and everyday, use your senses to re-discover the magnificent splendor of your life's blessings.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Hello one and all,
Karen had her second chemotherapy treatment of Taxol yesterday (04/25). Her blood results were well within the acceptable ranges so the treatment went ahead as scheduled. Karen is delighted that the only medication she receives is the pre-meds prior to the chemo and the monthly Xgeva shot. Karen is not experiencing any side effects from the chemo but she still has the neuropathy in her fingertips and the balls of her feet. Karen is happy with the fact that the chemo session is only an hour and a half long.
As of today, the oncology department where Karen receives her treatments and shots will become part of the Sutter Hospital Medical Group. As such, the nurses and other staff members will be undergoing some orientation and training. Although the staff members are reassuring the patients that there will be minimal disruption during this transition period, Karen was told that her second set of chemo and shot appointments will be scheduled but they, the nurses, could not do it yet. Additionally, Karen will have to go in the day before her chemo treatment to have the blood drawn because the blood tests must be conducted by the hospital. In the past, the blood samples/results were completed in the oncology department and the patient had the information within 5 minutes. If Karen has her blood drawn on the day of the chemo, the nurse explained to Karen that there was a possibility of waiting 2 hours before her blood results could be completed and before the chemo could be administered. Oh well, hopefully the hospital will get their act together, but it sure seems that some bureaucracy has mandated this takeover. Even though Karen was under the influence of Benadryl and has only a half a brain cell to comprehend ("Scooby-Doo" look) what the nurse was telling her, it appeared to Karen that the oncology department went from highly efficient to a bureaucratic nightmare. Only time will tell the story on this transition.
Anyhow, Karen, her mom and all of the family want to thank you for keeping them in your prayers and thoughts and for reading this blog.
Tip of the blog: Remember, when you have angelic friends, you are never alone.
Karen had her second chemotherapy treatment of Taxol yesterday (04/25). Her blood results were well within the acceptable ranges so the treatment went ahead as scheduled. Karen is delighted that the only medication she receives is the pre-meds prior to the chemo and the monthly Xgeva shot. Karen is not experiencing any side effects from the chemo but she still has the neuropathy in her fingertips and the balls of her feet. Karen is happy with the fact that the chemo session is only an hour and a half long.
As of today, the oncology department where Karen receives her treatments and shots will become part of the Sutter Hospital Medical Group. As such, the nurses and other staff members will be undergoing some orientation and training. Although the staff members are reassuring the patients that there will be minimal disruption during this transition period, Karen was told that her second set of chemo and shot appointments will be scheduled but they, the nurses, could not do it yet. Additionally, Karen will have to go in the day before her chemo treatment to have the blood drawn because the blood tests must be conducted by the hospital. In the past, the blood samples/results were completed in the oncology department and the patient had the information within 5 minutes. If Karen has her blood drawn on the day of the chemo, the nurse explained to Karen that there was a possibility of waiting 2 hours before her blood results could be completed and before the chemo could be administered. Oh well, hopefully the hospital will get their act together, but it sure seems that some bureaucracy has mandated this takeover. Even though Karen was under the influence of Benadryl and has only a half a brain cell to comprehend ("Scooby-Doo" look) what the nurse was telling her, it appeared to Karen that the oncology department went from highly efficient to a bureaucratic nightmare. Only time will tell the story on this transition.
Anyhow, Karen, her mom and all of the family want to thank you for keeping them in your prayers and thoughts and for reading this blog.
Tip of the blog: Remember, when you have angelic friends, you are never alone.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Good evening to all the readers of this blog,
Well, Karen underwent her first chemotherapy treatment (Taxol) today. She was given four pre-medications (Aloxi, Decadron, Benadryl and Pepcid) to assist her with any allergic reaction or nausea issues associated with the Taxol. Although Karen drove her Mom and older sister, Anne, to the infusion center, Anne drove them home as Karen was very tired with the Benadryl. Karen is not experiencing any negative reactions to the Taxol, which is a good thing. As always, Karen has blood drawn before the above can occur. Her blood results were well within the standard ranges. The nurse, Lucia, who attended to Karen today, is expecting a little girl in June. She and her husband are so excited but are still deciding on the little girl's name which will begin with the letter "M". The entire process took just under 2 hours.
As you know, Karen always a little a bit humor when she goes for her treatment. Even though this is her second journey, she was able to make her mom, sister and other people laugh. When Karen, her mom and her sister entered the elevator to go up one floor, there was an elderly couple who got on also. Ironically, they too were headed to the infusion center. As Karen pushed the floor number 2, Karen looked at the elderly man and said, "Oh we're going to the second floor. Ladies lingerie." He smiled and said, "Do they also have jewelry?" Karen smiled and laughed back saying, "Absolutely. Jewelry goes great with lingerie." All of them in the elevator had a good laugh.
After Karen had the pre-medications administered and it was now time for the Taxol. Lucia, the nurse, asked Karen one of those mentally challenging question. "Is your date of birth mm/dd/year?"
Because Karen was under the influence of drugs and also only operates with a half of brain cell, she sat there in her chair looking up at the nurse with a blank stare. After a few seconds, which seemed like eternity, Karen turned to her Mom and asked her, "When was I born?" Luckily, Karen's mom vouched for Karen's birth. What a relief that was for all and good laugh. Ha ha ha.........
Take care everyone and we will let you know how Karen's second treatment (4/25/13) goes.
Tip of the blog: Keep a happy thought throughout your busy day and smile constantly.
Well, Karen underwent her first chemotherapy treatment (Taxol) today. She was given four pre-medications (Aloxi, Decadron, Benadryl and Pepcid) to assist her with any allergic reaction or nausea issues associated with the Taxol. Although Karen drove her Mom and older sister, Anne, to the infusion center, Anne drove them home as Karen was very tired with the Benadryl. Karen is not experiencing any negative reactions to the Taxol, which is a good thing. As always, Karen has blood drawn before the above can occur. Her blood results were well within the standard ranges. The nurse, Lucia, who attended to Karen today, is expecting a little girl in June. She and her husband are so excited but are still deciding on the little girl's name which will begin with the letter "M". The entire process took just under 2 hours.
As you know, Karen always a little a bit humor when she goes for her treatment. Even though this is her second journey, she was able to make her mom, sister and other people laugh. When Karen, her mom and her sister entered the elevator to go up one floor, there was an elderly couple who got on also. Ironically, they too were headed to the infusion center. As Karen pushed the floor number 2, Karen looked at the elderly man and said, "Oh we're going to the second floor. Ladies lingerie." He smiled and said, "Do they also have jewelry?" Karen smiled and laughed back saying, "Absolutely. Jewelry goes great with lingerie." All of them in the elevator had a good laugh.
After Karen had the pre-medications administered and it was now time for the Taxol. Lucia, the nurse, asked Karen one of those mentally challenging question. "Is your date of birth mm/dd/year?"
Because Karen was under the influence of drugs and also only operates with a half of brain cell, she sat there in her chair looking up at the nurse with a blank stare. After a few seconds, which seemed like eternity, Karen turned to her Mom and asked her, "When was I born?" Luckily, Karen's mom vouched for Karen's birth. What a relief that was for all and good laugh. Ha ha ha.........
Take care everyone and we will let you know how Karen's second treatment (4/25/13) goes.
Tip of the blog: Keep a happy thought throughout your busy day and smile constantly.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Hello one and all,
We know that it was January 28, 2013, since we lasted updated this blog. First of all, a belated Happy Easter to one and all. Now to the news. Karen is still receiving her monthly Xgeva shot and has her blood tests conducted. Her blood results (i.e. red blood count, white blood counts, etc.) are well within the established limits. However, Karen's cancer markers have increased from 135 in Nov. 2012 to 189 in Mar. 2013. As a result of the increase in these readings, Karen had a PET scan on March 25, 2013. Karen saw her oncologist on April 8, 2013, and found out that her cancer has returned. Luckily for Karen it is not affecting her lungs nor any vital organs. Additionally, it is not as widespread as it was last year. The oncologist, who was more disappointed than Karen, advised Karen that she will undergo chemo treatments again but it will not be as aggressive as it was last year. The chemo will be Taxol and will be administered every week for three weeks and one week off. Karen will undergo this treatment for a six month period. Anyhow, Karen is very upbeat and is looking forward to this new journey. Karen did ask her oncologist if there was a likelihood of her losing her hair again. Sure enough the oncologist gave her an affirmative nod. Of course Karen told her oncologist that losing her hair was not a problem. Maybe this time the good Lord will give Karen brown and wavy hair instead of white and straight. Karen will tell you that bald-headed people are beautiful and the look is definitely "fashionable." The doctor's office is acquiring approval from Karen's health insurance provider. Once that is approved, they will provide Karen with her chemotherapy schedule. The oncologist would like the treatment to start sometime next week or the week after. We will update the blog once the chemo treatments began. Please take care and thanks to all the family members and friends who are keeping Karen and her Mom in their thoughts and prayers.
Tip of the Blog: Angels fly above us for one reason so they can always watch over us.
We know that it was January 28, 2013, since we lasted updated this blog. First of all, a belated Happy Easter to one and all. Now to the news. Karen is still receiving her monthly Xgeva shot and has her blood tests conducted. Her blood results (i.e. red blood count, white blood counts, etc.) are well within the established limits. However, Karen's cancer markers have increased from 135 in Nov. 2012 to 189 in Mar. 2013. As a result of the increase in these readings, Karen had a PET scan on March 25, 2013. Karen saw her oncologist on April 8, 2013, and found out that her cancer has returned. Luckily for Karen it is not affecting her lungs nor any vital organs. Additionally, it is not as widespread as it was last year. The oncologist, who was more disappointed than Karen, advised Karen that she will undergo chemo treatments again but it will not be as aggressive as it was last year. The chemo will be Taxol and will be administered every week for three weeks and one week off. Karen will undergo this treatment for a six month period. Anyhow, Karen is very upbeat and is looking forward to this new journey. Karen did ask her oncologist if there was a likelihood of her losing her hair again. Sure enough the oncologist gave her an affirmative nod. Of course Karen told her oncologist that losing her hair was not a problem. Maybe this time the good Lord will give Karen brown and wavy hair instead of white and straight. Karen will tell you that bald-headed people are beautiful and the look is definitely "fashionable." The doctor's office is acquiring approval from Karen's health insurance provider. Once that is approved, they will provide Karen with her chemotherapy schedule. The oncologist would like the treatment to start sometime next week or the week after. We will update the blog once the chemo treatments began. Please take care and thanks to all the family members and friends who are keeping Karen and her Mom in their thoughts and prayers.
Tip of the Blog: Angels fly above us for one reason so they can always watch over us.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Good evening one and all,
The authors of this blog realize that it has been about two months since the last writing. Karen had her monthly Xgeva shot, port cleaning and blood tests conducted on the last Friday of December and January. Karen's blood results were well within the acceptable limits and she is improving each day. Although Karen had asked the nurse for her cancer marker readings for November and December, the nurse seemed pre-occupied with other pending issues in the infusion center that the information was not provided. Karen is not worry about these readings but will try to acquire them in February.
As written in some of the previous blogs, one of the nurses retired at the end of December. Karen surprised the nurse (Kathy) on her last day of work in December by giving her a handcrafted Heart Wreath (made from walnut), a bouquet of Origami flowers and big Thank You card. Contrary to popular belief, Karen made the wreath, some holiday hangings for the wreath and the Origami flowers even though Karen is still battling with the neuropathy in her hands. Kathy was truly surprised and very thankful for the gifts. Some of the other nurses have asked Karen to make them a Heart Wreath. Karen is thinking about it.
As stated above Karen is making milestones each day. She has been doing some little woodworking projects, yardwork with her Mom and oh yes, she even got up on the rooftop in the month of December. While Karen was working on the woodworking project (Heart Wreath) in December, she noticed a leak in the ceiling in the garage. Being the trained investigator, she immediately notified her Mom to verify if that was indeed a leak in the ceiling. After a few minutes of discussion it was determined to be a leak. Karen and her Mom decided to pull the ladders out to check the rain gutters. Needless to say, it wasn't the rain gutters so Karen ventured onto the rooftop to discover that the valleys and flashing on the rooftop were clogged by leaves and dirt. Karen spent, according to her Mom, at least 3 to 4 hours cleaning the roof of the clumps of leaves and dirt. Of course, the day was cold and Karen's Mom stood down below on the front lawn looking up at the roof and at times could not see Karen. Karen's Mom could only imagine what the neighbors thought of her while she stood there looking up at the roof. To say the least, Karen and her Mom became the talk of the neighborhood. Karen ended up with four bags of trash from the roof. The funny or sad part about this story is their property has no trees on it. The leaves are constantly blowing in from their neighbors' homes. And yes, the cleaning on the rooftop did in fact stop the leak from expanding.
Anyhow, thank you for keeping Karen and all of her family in your prayers and thoughts. Karen and her Mom want to wish all of you a very Happy and Peaceful New Year.
Tip of the Blog: What Cancer Cannot Do.
Cancer is so limited. It cannot cripple Love. It cannot shatter Hope. It cannot corrode Faith. It cannot destroy Peace. It cannot kill Friendship. It cannot suppress Memories. It cannot silence Courage. It cannot invade the Soul. It cannot steal eternal Life. It cannot conquer the Spirit.
Author Unknown
The authors of this blog realize that it has been about two months since the last writing. Karen had her monthly Xgeva shot, port cleaning and blood tests conducted on the last Friday of December and January. Karen's blood results were well within the acceptable limits and she is improving each day. Although Karen had asked the nurse for her cancer marker readings for November and December, the nurse seemed pre-occupied with other pending issues in the infusion center that the information was not provided. Karen is not worry about these readings but will try to acquire them in February.
As written in some of the previous blogs, one of the nurses retired at the end of December. Karen surprised the nurse (Kathy) on her last day of work in December by giving her a handcrafted Heart Wreath (made from walnut), a bouquet of Origami flowers and big Thank You card. Contrary to popular belief, Karen made the wreath, some holiday hangings for the wreath and the Origami flowers even though Karen is still battling with the neuropathy in her hands. Kathy was truly surprised and very thankful for the gifts. Some of the other nurses have asked Karen to make them a Heart Wreath. Karen is thinking about it.
As stated above Karen is making milestones each day. She has been doing some little woodworking projects, yardwork with her Mom and oh yes, she even got up on the rooftop in the month of December. While Karen was working on the woodworking project (Heart Wreath) in December, she noticed a leak in the ceiling in the garage. Being the trained investigator, she immediately notified her Mom to verify if that was indeed a leak in the ceiling. After a few minutes of discussion it was determined to be a leak. Karen and her Mom decided to pull the ladders out to check the rain gutters. Needless to say, it wasn't the rain gutters so Karen ventured onto the rooftop to discover that the valleys and flashing on the rooftop were clogged by leaves and dirt. Karen spent, according to her Mom, at least 3 to 4 hours cleaning the roof of the clumps of leaves and dirt. Of course, the day was cold and Karen's Mom stood down below on the front lawn looking up at the roof and at times could not see Karen. Karen's Mom could only imagine what the neighbors thought of her while she stood there looking up at the roof. To say the least, Karen and her Mom became the talk of the neighborhood. Karen ended up with four bags of trash from the roof. The funny or sad part about this story is their property has no trees on it. The leaves are constantly blowing in from their neighbors' homes. And yes, the cleaning on the rooftop did in fact stop the leak from expanding.
Anyhow, thank you for keeping Karen and all of her family in your prayers and thoughts. Karen and her Mom want to wish all of you a very Happy and Peaceful New Year.
Tip of the Blog: What Cancer Cannot Do.
Cancer is so limited. It cannot cripple Love. It cannot shatter Hope. It cannot corrode Faith. It cannot destroy Peace. It cannot kill Friendship. It cannot suppress Memories. It cannot silence Courage. It cannot invade the Soul. It cannot steal eternal Life. It cannot conquer the Spirit.
Author Unknown
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