Yesterday I met for the first time my new oncologist. Very nice woman. She didn't know what to expect upon entering the room to meet me as she had my recent surgery papers in hand. But she was pleasantly pleased with what she saw. Saw no need for chemo or radiation according to surgeon's report from 11/1/07. Especially after all that I had been through. As they were making a mammogram appt. for me, she was able to pull up the results of the CT scan from this past Friday. She then brought me back into the room to go over them. Here's a summary of the findings:
Lung windows demonstrate scattered 3 mm pulmonary nodules, some of which are new since previous scan of Oct 2007, suspicious for metastatic disease.
There is a small soft tissue density measuring 2.2 X 1.7 cm at the left 2nd costosternal junction, which might represent residual tumor or scar tissue.
Evaluation of the liver demonstrates a nonspecific 3 mm lesion in segment 7.
--------------------
She has scheduled a CT scan to be done in 6 weeks rather than the usual 3 months, to check on the nodules in the lungs. Both lungs have them.
Today, Oct. 30th, I met with surgeon in Pittsburgh Dr. Christie to go over the same CT scan results. He was the physician who had ordered the tests for me. It had been 3 months since my last scans. He agreed that the scan should be done in 6 weeks. But his main concern is the tissue that appears to be in same area as cancer was. He has immediately ordered me to have a needle guided biopsy/CT Scan guided on next Tuesday. He will be peforming this for me, with pathologists working by his side to verify that enough tissue is being taken for a good sampling. Believe me, I had no feelings that anything would show up on this test. Especially since I'm still healing from the surgery. Lots of things going on in my mind right now. But one day at a time, one test at a time, and if needed a nice dessert treat in between!
Test results take a week. Main thing is to get the tests done.
As each test comes and goes, I wonder when "enough is enough." Don't get me wrong, I'm delighted to be here typing away. But talk about an emotional roller coaster.
Geez, I don't think I'll ever make employee of the month with perfect attendance!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Friday's happenings...
Barry and I got to the hospital as planned at 6 a.m. Boy was it cold with the temp at about 5 degrees. At about 9 a.m. I left Barry to go to Hillman Cancer Center for my CT scans for chest and abdomin, which included drinking 2 containers of the terrible contrast. Took all I could just to do that. No matter what flavor they give you, to me it tastes terrible. Barry just chugs it down when he does his tests.
I finished those tests at about 12 noon just in time for a quick cup of soup in their cafe. Then I was off to see my plastic surgeon for a 12:45 p.m. appt. This appt. is always quick, no waiting involved. Everything is healing nicely and I don't have to have any further follow ups with him. One down.
Earlier in a.m. I got news that there was a room available for me at the Family House. This facilitly is about 11 blocks from the hospital. I immediately went over there, got a precious parking spot behind their building and checked in to my room. By 2 p.m. I was under the covers just to rest my body/brain and to get warmed up. At both previous hospitals I was never able to get warmed up, even with donated blankets.
I took the shuttle bus back to the hospital and got there by 4:30 p.m. Barry had got to the room at about 3:30 p.m. He was in the worst agony. Felt as if a truck was sitting on his chest. First time ever he was using swear words which is not like him at all. Not only was he suffering, he was not able to get off of his back due to the chemo procedure. Morphine was not helping which was usual. I quickly jumped in to be his pain management advocate. Toradol took forever to get up from the pharmacy. Followed by more morphine. It's a terrible, hopeless feeling to watch someone you love be in such pain. Only thing I could do was to hold his hand and occassionally rub his feet. By 6 p.m. he was able to finally fall asleep for a short while. To hear his slight snoring was a God sent noise.
Dinner came, but of course he wasn't up to eating. So I enjoyed bits and pieces of it. I stayed until 8 p.m. Since he was finally sleeping some I thought it was a good time to leave. He told me the next day that it wasn't until midnight that he felt better.
I took the shuttle back to the Family House and I was under the covers by 8:30 p.m. I had such a feeling of comfort just knowing he was finally sleeping and that I didn't have to drive home that evening. These housing units are so clean and the people are so caring. So many stories are shared by the people openly. One lady's husband has been in hospital for 3 months with transplant issues. Another 21 year old girl has virus and it was 3 years ago she had heart transplant. And you can't beat the price of a room. A single cost only $30. I just can't explain the warmth I feel when I go in to the room on a day Barry has his treatment. A long day for both of us.
Yesterday I got to the hospital by 9 a.m. and was able to speak briefly to his oncologist. By that time Barry was feeling so much better. So thankful for that. His doctor also wanted to see my surgical site and to show his resident. He said that we've been through a lot for a couple. I agree.
Barry did rest most of the day yesterday, and continues to do the same this a.m.
After church last night, I made homemade chicken noodle soup with cheese tortellinis.
A good day for that.
And here it is Sunday. Tuesday I meet with new oncologist Dr. Simon, and Wednesday I head back to Pittsburgh to meet with surgeon Dr. Christie to go over the CT scan results. I will also be discussing the continuous pain I've been having in right clavicle area from arm movement. I've been having to take more pain meds the past couple of days. But was told over the phone last week from his nurse that it probably is just the healing process, but the CT scans will put it all together.
As for saying I don't have cancer, I will never say that. As a good friend of mine told me (JK), just say "so far, so good."
Thanks for all your continued prayers and support.
PS. Today is going to be "clean the house day" for Tim. He doesn't know that yet. With both Barry and I unable to do lifting and so forth, Tim will be a great help.
(not sure if he will think that, though!) One thing that will change this cycle for Barry, he won't have to take care of the house and me like he did in November. He can deal with his own healing.
I finished those tests at about 12 noon just in time for a quick cup of soup in their cafe. Then I was off to see my plastic surgeon for a 12:45 p.m. appt. This appt. is always quick, no waiting involved. Everything is healing nicely and I don't have to have any further follow ups with him. One down.
Earlier in a.m. I got news that there was a room available for me at the Family House. This facilitly is about 11 blocks from the hospital. I immediately went over there, got a precious parking spot behind their building and checked in to my room. By 2 p.m. I was under the covers just to rest my body/brain and to get warmed up. At both previous hospitals I was never able to get warmed up, even with donated blankets.
I took the shuttle bus back to the hospital and got there by 4:30 p.m. Barry had got to the room at about 3:30 p.m. He was in the worst agony. Felt as if a truck was sitting on his chest. First time ever he was using swear words which is not like him at all. Not only was he suffering, he was not able to get off of his back due to the chemo procedure. Morphine was not helping which was usual. I quickly jumped in to be his pain management advocate. Toradol took forever to get up from the pharmacy. Followed by more morphine. It's a terrible, hopeless feeling to watch someone you love be in such pain. Only thing I could do was to hold his hand and occassionally rub his feet. By 6 p.m. he was able to finally fall asleep for a short while. To hear his slight snoring was a God sent noise.
Dinner came, but of course he wasn't up to eating. So I enjoyed bits and pieces of it. I stayed until 8 p.m. Since he was finally sleeping some I thought it was a good time to leave. He told me the next day that it wasn't until midnight that he felt better.
I took the shuttle back to the Family House and I was under the covers by 8:30 p.m. I had such a feeling of comfort just knowing he was finally sleeping and that I didn't have to drive home that evening. These housing units are so clean and the people are so caring. So many stories are shared by the people openly. One lady's husband has been in hospital for 3 months with transplant issues. Another 21 year old girl has virus and it was 3 years ago she had heart transplant. And you can't beat the price of a room. A single cost only $30. I just can't explain the warmth I feel when I go in to the room on a day Barry has his treatment. A long day for both of us.
Yesterday I got to the hospital by 9 a.m. and was able to speak briefly to his oncologist. By that time Barry was feeling so much better. So thankful for that. His doctor also wanted to see my surgical site and to show his resident. He said that we've been through a lot for a couple. I agree.
Barry did rest most of the day yesterday, and continues to do the same this a.m.
After church last night, I made homemade chicken noodle soup with cheese tortellinis.
A good day for that.
And here it is Sunday. Tuesday I meet with new oncologist Dr. Simon, and Wednesday I head back to Pittsburgh to meet with surgeon Dr. Christie to go over the CT scan results. I will also be discussing the continuous pain I've been having in right clavicle area from arm movement. I've been having to take more pain meds the past couple of days. But was told over the phone last week from his nurse that it probably is just the healing process, but the CT scans will put it all together.
As for saying I don't have cancer, I will never say that. As a good friend of mine told me (JK), just say "so far, so good."
Thanks for all your continued prayers and support.
PS. Today is going to be "clean the house day" for Tim. He doesn't know that yet. With both Barry and I unable to do lifting and so forth, Tim will be a great help.
(not sure if he will think that, though!) One thing that will change this cycle for Barry, he won't have to take care of the house and me like he did in November. He can deal with his own healing.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Barry's most painful treatment in 2 years
Need I say anything else. Will update later, after I take a nap. Am glad he's home and resting now.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Another chemoembolization for Barry tomorrow
Yes, it's been 12 weeks since his last treatment. Unlike last one on Nov. 2, I'll be able to go with him. I wasn't able to last time because I was also having the breast cancer removed at same time. My, time flies when you're having fun. I am multi tasking while he's having his chemo. I have CT scans being done at cancer center, along with a follow up meeting with my plastic surgeon. So I'll be kept busy which is good. If there is a room available at the Family House I will also be staying in the city.
Next week I'll be seeing new oncologist, along with a return trip back into the city to see surgeon to go over CT scan results. Fingers are always crossed for test results. By noontime at my job I feel the aches of the clavicle area where I believe they broke it for the surgery. This will be addressed next week by the surgeon. Have heard it just needs to heal. Am sort of getting used to heavy feeling in my chest from the plate. Usually I just come home and take a nap after taking some medicine for it. But looking at the big picture I'm so much better.
So, am looking to hear that Barry's CT scans from last week show no growth, status quo. That'll be discussed before his treatment. As Moe would say, "adios." (PS She returns to her job Feb 3. Doing great.)
Next week I'll be seeing new oncologist, along with a return trip back into the city to see surgeon to go over CT scan results. Fingers are always crossed for test results. By noontime at my job I feel the aches of the clavicle area where I believe they broke it for the surgery. This will be addressed next week by the surgeon. Have heard it just needs to heal. Am sort of getting used to heavy feeling in my chest from the plate. Usually I just come home and take a nap after taking some medicine for it. But looking at the big picture I'm so much better.
So, am looking to hear that Barry's CT scans from last week show no growth, status quo. That'll be discussed before his treatment. As Moe would say, "adios." (PS She returns to her job Feb 3. Doing great.)
Monday, January 21, 2008
ONE down, ONE to go!
Without any pain at all, I just passed and collected my first kidney stone! Almost wasn't going to strain the urine but I did. And boy was I glad I did. There it was. Clear as can be, the stone. Hard to believe that it had caused so much discomfort these past few days. Will bring it to doctor tomorrow for it to be examined. That way they can possibly figure out the makings of it.
Geez. I've always said my life is an open book. This proves it. I won't take any pix even though there is a bit of temptation...
One more to go. Hopefully as easy as this was. Compared to cancer, no comparison.
Geez. I've always said my life is an open book. This proves it. I won't take any pix even though there is a bit of temptation...
One more to go. Hopefully as easy as this was. Compared to cancer, no comparison.
A good nite's sleep
Actually had a good nite's sleep. Off to work shortly. Will work about 1/2 day.
Only issue I have (which considering the whole scheme of life ain't bad) is to figure out how to pee privately and screen for stones!
PS
Meaning of love: taking your wife to the hospital during the NFC championship on your night off. Thanks, Barry.
Only issue I have (which considering the whole scheme of life ain't bad) is to figure out how to pee privately and screen for stones!
PS
Meaning of love: taking your wife to the hospital during the NFC championship on your night off. Thanks, Barry.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Kidney stone plus 1 on way
Just a quickie. This evening was spent in ER since I had what was my 3rd episode of bad abdominal pain. Besides this a.m. at 3:30 a.m. and most recent was at about 6:30 p.m. tonight. Tonights was so bad that I couldn't take it, asked Barry to take me to hospital. Had urine test, abdomen CT scan and chest x-ray that showed blood in urine and two kidney stones. One that has been causing the past 3 episodes and the other hasn't bothered me yet! They gave me a shot of toradol (not sure of spelling). Due to the size being only 3 mm I did not have to stay in hospital. I have to screen my urine to "catch" the stone which will appear to look like pepper or rice. Very small but causes so much pain. Have to call my doctor in a.m. and probably follow up with urologist. I have to drink water which I admit I am not good doing so.
Pooped now so hopefully heading to bed, not knowing what will happen.
Pooped now so hopefully heading to bed, not knowing what will happen.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Work
It was nice seeing everyone today at my job after I had my dr. appt. So many people emailed me to welcome me back. Nice. But I did what I said I would not do, I worked too long. Only was able to work 3 1/2 hrs. and that was too much right now. Am paying for it now. I only wish I had known that it was too much. Doctor knows that even though I'm off narcotic meds I'm still in pain, so he did prescribe another pain med instead. Only problem was I didn't fill it until after I had worked those hours. And as you know, it's very important to stay ahead of the pain.
Went right to bed but was unable to get comfortable at all as pain was too much. Not able to sleep or stop the pain. For some reason even my legs ache as if I was getting the flu. Took a bath this evening but still achy. Tim got us heros in town for dinner so that worked out great.
So tomorrow I'll head in to work being smarter than I was today. Work less hours and do as others have told me, take it easy. Smooth your way in to the job.
And as always with my blog, I write honestly of how I feel. Thanks.
Update 10 p.m.
Pain has subsided to the point it had been at. Am thankful for that and the meds.
Went right to bed but was unable to get comfortable at all as pain was too much. Not able to sleep or stop the pain. For some reason even my legs ache as if I was getting the flu. Took a bath this evening but still achy. Tim got us heros in town for dinner so that worked out great.
So tomorrow I'll head in to work being smarter than I was today. Work less hours and do as others have told me, take it easy. Smooth your way in to the job.
And as always with my blog, I write honestly of how I feel. Thanks.
Update 10 p.m.
Pain has subsided to the point it had been at. Am thankful for that and the meds.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
A renewed life
Tomorrow I have an appt. with my primary dr. at 9:30 a.m. Since I saw him on the 3rd, I've been weaning myself off of the narcotic pain med. He had given me a schedule which I followed and tonight I will be taking the last 20 mg. of the med.
Going back to work no way means that I'm pain free. I don't even know when or if that will ever happen. By mid afternoon my chest becomes so heavy and uncomfortable prompting me to take a couple alleves. So come tomorrow I don't know what to expect with the amount of pain that I could get. Time will tell. Plus I'm hoping that returning to work will take my mind off of the existing pain I still feel.
I still have a few dr. appts. this month and I'll also be having a CT scan on my chest/abdomin as it is coming up to 3 months. Boy does time fly when you're having fun. (I wish) I was showing Barry the scar today and he didn't realize that it was only a week and a day since I had the last surgery. You know, considering that, I'm doing pretty good!
And after my appt., I head directly to work for 1/2 day hours to start. Of all things, I know to watch what I can and can not do. It works both ways, I'm looking forward to seeing my co-workers and they are looking forward to seeing me. Wish me luck.
Going back to work no way means that I'm pain free. I don't even know when or if that will ever happen. By mid afternoon my chest becomes so heavy and uncomfortable prompting me to take a couple alleves. So come tomorrow I don't know what to expect with the amount of pain that I could get. Time will tell. Plus I'm hoping that returning to work will take my mind off of the existing pain I still feel.
I still have a few dr. appts. this month and I'll also be having a CT scan on my chest/abdomin as it is coming up to 3 months. Boy does time fly when you're having fun. (I wish) I was showing Barry the scar today and he didn't realize that it was only a week and a day since I had the last surgery. You know, considering that, I'm doing pretty good!
And after my appt., I head directly to work for 1/2 day hours to start. Of all things, I know to watch what I can and can not do. It works both ways, I'm looking forward to seeing my co-workers and they are looking forward to seeing me. Wish me luck.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Back to work Wednesday
I see my primary doctor Wednesday a.m. and will get my return back to work note. Then I am heading right to my job. Can't wait to be back among the living. Will start off part time and go from there. I'm pretty excited after just calling my boss about it. As I've said in the past, work has and is the best therapy.
I slept OK last night. At one point I had slept 3 hrs. straight. That felt good.
Didn't get to bed until late and did manage to stay up once Tim went off to school. Even though my bed was calling me, I ignored its voice. I was trying to justify that I had gone to bed late and therefore I needed to sleep more. Wrong. That's when I realized that Tim just went to school and we both went to bed same time!
And do you know something, I actually feel the best today than I have felt in a long time.
Even organized and will file about 3 months worth of paperwork/bills this a.m. Lots
of junk to file away.
So if you ask me how I'm doing, I'll say "looking forward to going back to work.!"
I slept OK last night. At one point I had slept 3 hrs. straight. That felt good.
Didn't get to bed until late and did manage to stay up once Tim went off to school. Even though my bed was calling me, I ignored its voice. I was trying to justify that I had gone to bed late and therefore I needed to sleep more. Wrong. That's when I realized that Tim just went to school and we both went to bed same time!
And do you know something, I actually feel the best today than I have felt in a long time.
Even organized and will file about 3 months worth of paperwork/bills this a.m. Lots
of junk to file away.
So if you ask me how I'm doing, I'll say "looking forward to going back to work.!"
Sunday, January 13, 2008
I'm dreaming of a good night's sleep
Don't know why, but I feel my days and nights are somewhat switched. Or maybe I'm more tired than not. For the past 10 days or so I've successfully been reducing the amount of pain meds I had been on. Within next couple of days it should be down to zero. Been doing ok with that. When needed I take alleve. I toss and turn when I go to bed at about midnight (lately), and last night I had attempted to reduce my anxiety med by 1/2 to see if I would sleep better. By 3 a.m. I was up and down, wide awake. So then I took the other 1/2 of pill and by a.m. I'm still in bed at 11. Each morning when I wake up my chest is so stiff from plate. Able to only sleep on my back or a bit on my right side shoulder. But that shoulder doesn't last long and I'm back to tossing around. I hate the feeling of being so tired in a.m. from not sleeping good at night. My body and meds are just a bit messed up I guess.
And here it is 2 p.m. and I'm already thinking of going to bed. Yes, I know I should be out there getting fresh air but my brain is telling me otherwise. Body's been through a lot, and perhaps it's because I'm reducing the pain meds and just a combination of the past few months activities. Don't know.
And here it is 2 p.m. and I'm already thinking of going to bed. Yes, I know I should be out there getting fresh air but my brain is telling me otherwise. Body's been through a lot, and perhaps it's because I'm reducing the pain meds and just a combination of the past few months activities. Don't know.
Friday, January 11, 2008
The power of prayer
Don't ask me why, but this week I did not even think of biopsy results. Usually you would say the worst thing is the wait but I was pretty calm all week. Wasn't until I talked to my sister last night that I realized 5 days was today. Am so thankful that God gave me this calm feeling. As I told the nurse today when she was checking for results, you can tell me whatever the results show. Good or bad. I can handle it. I'm also so thankful for everyone's prayers and words of comfort these past months. The power of prayer.
I'm also grateful for this doctor to have noticed this area in question. With my history it certainly is better to be cautious than to turn your head.
PS. I think I got a bonus from plastic surgeon on Monday. My neck looks tighter, perhaps that skin was pulled a bit to stitch up the area of the biopsy. Geez, a free facelift! Can't beat that.
Next Tuesday I will meet with new oncologist.
I'm also grateful for this doctor to have noticed this area in question. With my history it certainly is better to be cautious than to turn your head.
PS. I think I got a bonus from plastic surgeon on Monday. My neck looks tighter, perhaps that skin was pulled a bit to stitch up the area of the biopsy. Geez, a free facelift! Can't beat that.
Next Tuesday I will meet with new oncologist.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Reducing pain meds
I'm doing really good weaning myself off of the oxycodone pain meds. I started the schedule that my doctor gave me last Friday by slowly reducing the daily dosages. And as of today I am now taking 50% of the dosage I had been taking since surgery in November. And when the pain starts to show up mid afternoon, I am taking over the counter meds. Scale of 1-10 I would say it's about a 3.
Will be calling the plastic surgeon in a.m. Hard to believe that tomorrow will be 5 days since the biopsy. Am hoping they have the results to give me. Don't ask me why, but I have not thought much about the results. I do know waiting is the worst but for some reason I've been calm this week. Must be getting used to waiting..
Can't wait to go back to work. I even had my neighbor who also works at the college call me this p.m. She has offered to drive me if needed when I return to work, which will probably be in a part time status until I get my body used to it. I thought that was a very nice offer.
Last night Tim made a batch of home made chocolate chip cookies for one of his class food parties which are held weekly on Thursdays. I on the other hand made the tear apart kind, took the easy way out. But his classmates frown upon taking the easy way out so he took it upon himself to do it the good ole way. Did it himself, even cleaned up afterwards. I was quite impressed.
Then he comes home from school today and announces that when he returned to his locker from lunch, the cookies were GONE. Earlier he had given a couple to his friends. Guess word got out. Don't know why, but this really upset me. So therefore he had nothing to bring to his class party. He has heard of a few involved but will not confront them. Too good of a kid. Even he couldn't believe that classmates would do this to him. Heck, all they would have to do was to ask for some next time he baked them. If they steal cookies, what else will they steal?
My sister's doing pretty good. Says she is still sore and I said to her "no shit."
You've had major surgery. That made her laugh. And I said that it had only been 4 days and not to worry. Just rest as you tell others to do.
Will be calling the plastic surgeon in a.m. Hard to believe that tomorrow will be 5 days since the biopsy. Am hoping they have the results to give me. Don't ask me why, but I have not thought much about the results. I do know waiting is the worst but for some reason I've been calm this week. Must be getting used to waiting..
Can't wait to go back to work. I even had my neighbor who also works at the college call me this p.m. She has offered to drive me if needed when I return to work, which will probably be in a part time status until I get my body used to it. I thought that was a very nice offer.
Last night Tim made a batch of home made chocolate chip cookies for one of his class food parties which are held weekly on Thursdays. I on the other hand made the tear apart kind, took the easy way out. But his classmates frown upon taking the easy way out so he took it upon himself to do it the good ole way. Did it himself, even cleaned up afterwards. I was quite impressed.
Then he comes home from school today and announces that when he returned to his locker from lunch, the cookies were GONE. Earlier he had given a couple to his friends. Guess word got out. Don't know why, but this really upset me. So therefore he had nothing to bring to his class party. He has heard of a few involved but will not confront them. Too good of a kid. Even he couldn't believe that classmates would do this to him. Heck, all they would have to do was to ask for some next time he baked them. If they steal cookies, what else will they steal?
My sister's doing pretty good. Says she is still sore and I said to her "no shit."
You've had major surgery. That made her laugh. And I said that it had only been 4 days and not to worry. Just rest as you tell others to do.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Doing pretty good
I spoke to Moe today and she was having some discomfort today. But that certainly is expected after what she had done: a drive thru hysterectomy.
Was able to take bandage off incision area and to take shower this a.m. Steri strips are covering the area. These strips will eventually come off after a few days. It appears that the surgeon used the same areas to cut the skin.
As for me, after Tim came home from school and took me to my job so I could say hi to my friends there. Felt good being there and seeing them. Then Tim drove me to the store for some stuff that had been on my to-buy list. It's nice having a chauffeur. By the time we were driving home, that aches in my chest had returned. I had felt good almost all day, which seemed to be a blessing since every day I am reducing the strength of the pain meds. Hard to explain how my chest feels, other than to say it's so stiff with a feeling that something is right inside it. Huh, there is something! A plastic plate that takes up most of my chest area. At times it just feels so heavy to me. As soon as we got home, I took extra strength tylenol. But now it's been 12 hrs. so I can take the narcotic pain meds. One thing different today was I had no p.m. nap, but I did sleep late in the a.m.
Keep up the healing, Moe. Co-workers at my job even asked how you were doing. Pretty nice.
Was able to take bandage off incision area and to take shower this a.m. Steri strips are covering the area. These strips will eventually come off after a few days. It appears that the surgeon used the same areas to cut the skin.
As for me, after Tim came home from school and took me to my job so I could say hi to my friends there. Felt good being there and seeing them. Then Tim drove me to the store for some stuff that had been on my to-buy list. It's nice having a chauffeur. By the time we were driving home, that aches in my chest had returned. I had felt good almost all day, which seemed to be a blessing since every day I am reducing the strength of the pain meds. Hard to explain how my chest feels, other than to say it's so stiff with a feeling that something is right inside it. Huh, there is something! A plastic plate that takes up most of my chest area. At times it just feels so heavy to me. As soon as we got home, I took extra strength tylenol. But now it's been 12 hrs. so I can take the narcotic pain meds. One thing different today was I had no p.m. nap, but I did sleep late in the a.m.
Keep up the healing, Moe. Co-workers at my job even asked how you were doing. Pretty nice.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Surgeries are history now
Barry and I left for the city as planned about 5 a.m. The surgeon met briefly with me before the surgery. Both Barry and I had been dozing (Barry because he had only a couple of hrs. of sleep due to working last night). I had assumed that tissue was going to be examined while I was under anesthesia but this was not the case. Have talked to the nurse in his office and she will call me as soon as the report is received. My surgery was scheduled for 9 a.m. but I think it was about 10 a.m. that I was wheeled into operating room. Unlike the surgery in November, I do remember everything leading up to the operating room. They gave me some sleepy stuff in my IV as I was being taken from my room, and by the time they were telling me to scoot myself over to the table I was out for the count. Good stuff. Next thing I knew I was back in the room with Barry.
Not sure how long it took, perhaps about 1/2 hr. I didn't have to go to recovery area, just directly back to my room. Used local anesthesia which makes for a faster wakening. Have to keep the incision covered for 48 hrs. Have heard that the area is held together by the little strips. Mind can't remember the exact name. Sterri perhaps. After I felt up to it, Barry and I went out to lunch in the city. Both of us were hungry by this time. Am thinking it was almost 1:30 p.m.
When we got home, Barry had to go right to work. No time to even catch a nap. I made a couple of phone calls and went to bed after Tim came home from school. The pain didn't seem much worse than what I've been feeling but....after waking up from nap it had set in. The big "owie" feeling had returned. Not surprised though. Another incision on an area still not healed from before. Couldn't wait for 7 p.m. to come so I could take pain meds. I did hear from my sister briefly right before she was heading to bed. Just know that she did good with surgery and was wiped out like me. Will learn more tomorrow.
A couple of my friends stopped by at about 6:30 p.m. to visit me. That was kind of nice. Stayed for about 90 minutes. And you must know what I did at 7 p.m.? Popped the pain meds quickly.
After they left I made myself comfortable in the recliner (these past couple of months this chair has been my best friend) and watched some TV. And within a couple of hours I was in a nice relaxed feeling.
Forgot one other thing that happened today while I was in surgery. A good friend of mine Patti stopped by our house and planted about 150 bulbs that had been just sitting in our entrance way. A job that I never had finished after being diagnosed in May. Talk about angels. There are so many out there. And one really nice thing about this, come spring it will be such a nice surprise to see the tulips and daffodils growing all over my yard. Places that are hidden away right now.
Thanks for all your continued thoughts and prayers, and random acts of kindness.
Surely is appreciated when you don't feel 100 percent. As I sat with Barry at lunch today, I reached over and touched him and said "in sickness and in health." That's all I needed to say.
And I'm looking forward especially to tomorrow with temps reaching high 60s. A true blessing.
Not sure how long it took, perhaps about 1/2 hr. I didn't have to go to recovery area, just directly back to my room. Used local anesthesia which makes for a faster wakening. Have to keep the incision covered for 48 hrs. Have heard that the area is held together by the little strips. Mind can't remember the exact name. Sterri perhaps. After I felt up to it, Barry and I went out to lunch in the city. Both of us were hungry by this time. Am thinking it was almost 1:30 p.m.
When we got home, Barry had to go right to work. No time to even catch a nap. I made a couple of phone calls and went to bed after Tim came home from school. The pain didn't seem much worse than what I've been feeling but....after waking up from nap it had set in. The big "owie" feeling had returned. Not surprised though. Another incision on an area still not healed from before. Couldn't wait for 7 p.m. to come so I could take pain meds. I did hear from my sister briefly right before she was heading to bed. Just know that she did good with surgery and was wiped out like me. Will learn more tomorrow.
A couple of my friends stopped by at about 6:30 p.m. to visit me. That was kind of nice. Stayed for about 90 minutes. And you must know what I did at 7 p.m.? Popped the pain meds quickly.
After they left I made myself comfortable in the recliner (these past couple of months this chair has been my best friend) and watched some TV. And within a couple of hours I was in a nice relaxed feeling.
Forgot one other thing that happened today while I was in surgery. A good friend of mine Patti stopped by our house and planted about 150 bulbs that had been just sitting in our entrance way. A job that I never had finished after being diagnosed in May. Talk about angels. There are so many out there. And one really nice thing about this, come spring it will be such a nice surprise to see the tulips and daffodils growing all over my yard. Places that are hidden away right now.
Thanks for all your continued thoughts and prayers, and random acts of kindness.
Surely is appreciated when you don't feel 100 percent. As I sat with Barry at lunch today, I reached over and touched him and said "in sickness and in health." That's all I needed to say.
And I'm looking forward especially to tomorrow with temps reaching high 60s. A true blessing.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Surgery in morning
Tomorrow is surgery day for my sister Moe and for me. She's having hysterectomy and of course you guys know what I'm having done. Both are being done in a.m. as out patients. I have to be at hospital by 6:30 a.m. for the operation set for 9 a.m.
Unfortunately having such an early appt. is not giving Barry much time to sleep after he finally gets home from work tonight. Wish that were different for him.
I should be home by afternoon, just local anesthesia probably. And then it's back to work for Barry's next day shift.
Have heard that the tissue taken will most likely be sent to pathology while I'm still under to rule out cancer or whatever. If cancer they have to make sure that all sides of the tissue are clear of cancer cells which means a "clear margin." Have learned that from previous bouts of cancer. You get really experienced.
That's it for now. I'm feeling good about the procedure,probably because it's being done because I had a doctor that senses something wrong. Not sitting around and doing nothing. And of course, I know I have such a prayer network out there. A true blessing.
Night.
Unfortunately having such an early appt. is not giving Barry much time to sleep after he finally gets home from work tonight. Wish that were different for him.
I should be home by afternoon, just local anesthesia probably. And then it's back to work for Barry's next day shift.
Have heard that the tissue taken will most likely be sent to pathology while I'm still under to rule out cancer or whatever. If cancer they have to make sure that all sides of the tissue are clear of cancer cells which means a "clear margin." Have learned that from previous bouts of cancer. You get really experienced.
That's it for now. I'm feeling good about the procedure,probably because it's being done because I had a doctor that senses something wrong. Not sitting around and doing nothing. And of course, I know I have such a prayer network out there. A true blessing.
Night.
Friday, January 04, 2008
Not the news I wanted to hear
Yesterday and today consisted of seeing 3 doctors in regards to my surgery on Nov. 1st. Yesterday was a followup appt. with my primary dr. to go over medications. I've been wanting to get weaned off of the oxy narcotic drug so he has prepared a plan to do so over the next couple of weeks. It had been my goal to go back to work this Monday in a part time position. He thought that was not wise to do so at this time, considering it would involve driving and taking the narcotic drug simultaneously. Plus with the reduced dosages of the pain meds we don't know how well that would be. I continue to have pain on a scale from 1-10, the pain would be a 5. Much better than weeks ago. I will be seeing him in 2 weeks as another followup.
This morning consisted of seeing the surgeon and plastic surgeon in Pittsburgh who did the surgery in Nov. Lisa drove me as there was no way I could or would drive that distance by myself. After having a chest x-ray (which was good/no issues) I went to the surgeon's appt. Once again, a long wait of about 2 hrs. Basically looked over the areas involved, told me to make sure to get medical oncologist, went over some aches and pains with him. Reminded me not to do any pushing/pulling. Definitely no vacuuming or shoveling of snow (which I admitted I had done a few minutes this week.) Bad things to do. Told me to stretch and rotate my arms. Even showed me the plate that was placed in my breast area. Takes over a good portion of my chest. Larger area than I had expected it to me.
From there we went to plastic surgeon. Got there within 5 minutes of appt. Not bad since you never know how long appts. are going to be. I got right into examining room where the dr. examined how the areas were healing. His eyes immediately went to my chest area where the "flap" was sewn into. There is a small area that has never healed like the other parts of that incision. At one time a scab came off, and then another scab grew back. Had caught Barry's and my eyes because it was dark like the previous cancer had looked like. Blackish. And to top it off, it's located basically in the exact area where the cancer was taken in Nov. If you look at my recent pix of the incision, you may be able to see the dark area at the top of what I call my "necklace" incision. Right to the point, the dr. is thinking that the cancer has returned. Just in how it's healing and it's appearance. He can't say why it didn't catch the other dr.s eyes yesterday or today, except perhaps for his age! Without any wasting of time, he is going to operate on me this coming Monday as an out patient at 9 a.m. He feels there is a lot of elasticity in the area of the skin in question, making it easy to remove a good size of the area. It was not the news I had wanted to hear but honestly I'm not surprised. After having cancer twice, I would never go out and even say I was cancer free. But I am glad that he is taking notice of the area and that we are going right after it especially if it proves to be cancer. No time to waste.
A long day but when you have a friend to talk to, it does go faster. Thanks Lisa for being there through both of these appts.
This morning consisted of seeing the surgeon and plastic surgeon in Pittsburgh who did the surgery in Nov. Lisa drove me as there was no way I could or would drive that distance by myself. After having a chest x-ray (which was good/no issues) I went to the surgeon's appt. Once again, a long wait of about 2 hrs. Basically looked over the areas involved, told me to make sure to get medical oncologist, went over some aches and pains with him. Reminded me not to do any pushing/pulling. Definitely no vacuuming or shoveling of snow (which I admitted I had done a few minutes this week.) Bad things to do. Told me to stretch and rotate my arms. Even showed me the plate that was placed in my breast area. Takes over a good portion of my chest. Larger area than I had expected it to me.
From there we went to plastic surgeon. Got there within 5 minutes of appt. Not bad since you never know how long appts. are going to be. I got right into examining room where the dr. examined how the areas were healing. His eyes immediately went to my chest area where the "flap" was sewn into. There is a small area that has never healed like the other parts of that incision. At one time a scab came off, and then another scab grew back. Had caught Barry's and my eyes because it was dark like the previous cancer had looked like. Blackish. And to top it off, it's located basically in the exact area where the cancer was taken in Nov. If you look at my recent pix of the incision, you may be able to see the dark area at the top of what I call my "necklace" incision. Right to the point, the dr. is thinking that the cancer has returned. Just in how it's healing and it's appearance. He can't say why it didn't catch the other dr.s eyes yesterday or today, except perhaps for his age! Without any wasting of time, he is going to operate on me this coming Monday as an out patient at 9 a.m. He feels there is a lot of elasticity in the area of the skin in question, making it easy to remove a good size of the area. It was not the news I had wanted to hear but honestly I'm not surprised. After having cancer twice, I would never go out and even say I was cancer free. But I am glad that he is taking notice of the area and that we are going right after it especially if it proves to be cancer. No time to waste.
A long day but when you have a friend to talk to, it does go faster. Thanks Lisa for being there through both of these appts.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Happy New Year
Like last year, we went out to dinner with several couples. Tim went over to a friend's house and spent New Years there along with a sleepover. After dinner we came home. Barry worked on Tim's computer and I surfed TV stations for some entertainment. Stayed up until midnight. But this year was different, never even opened up champagne. No room for that with my recent medicines.
Both of us stayed in a bed this a.m. (unusual for Barry, not for me!) I stayed in jammies all day. Christmas tree is all tucked away. After Tim came home today, he also took a nap. Just that kind of a day. Been snowing all day, light stuff that seems to be blowing everywhere. In looking at back deck doesn't show much accumulations, but that could be misleading. Will be sending Tim outside to check it out so Barry remains pleased with him!
Both of us stayed in a bed this a.m. (unusual for Barry, not for me!) I stayed in jammies all day. Christmas tree is all tucked away. After Tim came home today, he also took a nap. Just that kind of a day. Been snowing all day, light stuff that seems to be blowing everywhere. In looking at back deck doesn't show much accumulations, but that could be misleading. Will be sending Tim outside to check it out so Barry remains pleased with him!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)