I'm Still Here!

Dearest Blog Followers:

I have been remiss in my duties to update the Blog, and for that I apologize. I have been back at work since August 31st, am absolutely THRILLED to be back in my job and have tried to regain a sense of normal life. Through the generousity of family and friends, I have actually attended all 3 of Virginia Techs home football games -- and sat in the "Box" all 3 times. I was truly a joy to be in the Box 2 weeks ago in the driving rain storm as we kicked Miami in the "bum!!"

I've met with both Drs. McCoy and Stoeckle and gotten great reports. I had to have a small lumpy-thing removed from my abdomen wound during my last check-up with Dr. Stoeckle. I asked if it was going to involve a needle and he said no. I asked if it was going to be painful and he said compared to everything I've been through, no!! So, off it came!! Dr. Stoeckle had not heard my fabulous news that I was not going to undergo chemo and we had a HUGE hug on that one!

Dr. McCoy is continually happy with my improvement and I see him on a monthly basis for my gamma globulin infusions. He will check my blood levels every 3 months and probably ask for a CT scan of my abdomen, but I'm okay with both of these. I came off the blood thinner injections the end of September (YEAH!!), and am not getting all those lovely blood bruises I used to get.

Thanks to EVERYONE who continues to follow the Blog. I will try to update it more regularly.

WONDERFUL NEWS!!

Dearest Blog Followers:

Today marks almost 10 months since this health situation began on December 1, 2008.

I am so thrilled to report that the results of my PET/CT scans done last Saturday report that there is no activity in the cells and I do not need chemotherapy at all!!

Tom came with me with my appointment with Dr. McCoy and we both just looked at each other in shock when we were told the news. I was released to go back to work, which I will on Monday, cleared by my surgeon on Monday, and will have monthly check-ups with Dr. McCoy to monitor everything. He suggested I have CT scans done every 3 months and suggested I continue taking the blood thinner for another month, to err on the side of caution.

I called David and Heather immediately after we left Dr. McCoy's office. Heather's wonderful school secretary actually got Heather out of her classroom so I could tell her my good news personally. I am so thankful our children have such wonderful support from their co-workers.

I had to personally go to my office and tell my sweet Cindy the news, as she was the one who stayed with me when I was in ICU. My darling Ye Yes (and you know who you are), also were notified. I think I used up all my monthly Verizon minutes today!!

So, I plan to go back to work on Monday, although reporting to work at 7:30 will be an adjustment to me, since I don't usually get out of bed until about 9!!

A huge thank you to each and everyone one of you who have followed the blog my wonderful David, Trisha and Heather created and updated. Regardless of your depth of faith, I know and feel my success was due to all the prayers and thoughts coming my way. And, of course my sainted Mother was always on my side, too. I "turned it over..." many times. I wish she was here to celebrate this wonderful day with me, but know that she is with me always.

Loves, hugs and thanks to all of you!

PET/CT Scan

It is over! The PET/CT scan went fine yesterday.

It's actually pretty easy as you just sit for an hour after having been injected with radioactive dye. The scans themselves take 23 minutes and all you do you lay there while the machine runs over you. I know I prayed and prayed the whole 23 minutes as the results will determine my treatment schedule for the rest of the year.

Another update to come after Wednesday....

Update

Nothing like trying to slip in-and-out of church only to be caught by people telling me I haven't updated the Blog. I do so apologize to those local followers!

Next week is the last of my 6-week hiatus from any type of treatment and I am celebrating it by going with my "longest best friend" to visit my aunt and uncle at Emerald Isle, NC for 4 days. We will come back through Greenville to see David and Trisha's new house on Friday.

Saturday begins the reality of dealing with the cancer. I have a PET/CT scan schedule that afternoon, then will meet with Dr. McCoy on Wednesday to determine when I will be admitted to the hospital so chemo can begin. I am hoping I can go in on Thursday and get this started. I will go in every 3 weeks for 3-4 days, which I dread. But, I want chemo behind me and am willing to go through whatever infection/pain occurs with my wounds. It's like a black cloud always hanging over me and I just want to get it done.

Otherwise, I am doing very well -- eating and eating, although I don't feel like I've put on weight. I'm told my color is great and my wounds are looking good, too.

I'll update again after my appointment with Dr. McCoy. As always, I appreciate the thoughts and prayers coming my way!

Update

I met with Dr. McCoy today. He was encouraged that I had no swelling in my legs, had gained a couple of pounds and thought my wounds looked good. All of these will be in my favor when I begin chemo again. He didn't see any indications that the tumor(s) have grown, but he has scheduled CT and PET scans later next month. The CT scan will tell the size; the PET the activity level.

I was interested in taking the oral chemo, but he explained that it was not a good choice for me if my goal is to cure the cancer. So I will most probably have a treatment called EPOCH, which must be administered in the hospital (3 - 4 days each time) and through a main line. Since port-au-catheters are not an option for me, a PICC line is it. I have had success with those in the past. However, I do not want one in my neck again, so he said they could use one of my arms. It can be easily removed when no longer needed.

Of course, both he and Dr. Williams at UVA will not make the final decision until the scan results are received, but I am extremely encouraged by today's appointment.

Doin' Fine

I have been reminded too much lately, that I haven't updated the blog. I was going to wait until after my appointment with Dr. McCoy on Wednesday, but was just told that ANY news would be better than no news, so here goes....

I am doing very well considering where I've been! While my energy level has improved, I still tire after trying to do too much and have to stop and rest. That's my body talking to me, I guess. With more movement, my appetite has improved, but I still don't eat a whole lot. Snacks are good, though.

David, Trisha and Heather invited me to come join them at the beach next week for my birthday (6th), so I'm going to do that. I hope to have new CT/PET scans done the week of the 10th or 17th, and am resigned to begin chemo again soon after.

The Senior Associate Director of my office has approved holding my office position until January 2010, which was a HUGE relieve for me. It is one of the best pieces of news I've had as I absolutely love my job and our office unit, but recognize that the office needs a "warm body" working my position. I'm still blessed with donated leave from the wonderful employees of Virginia Tech. I am hopeful I can get through this nightmare known as 2009 and be back to a normal life by the 2010.

Please feel free to call to say hello, visit, play cards, etc. I will update again after my appointment with Dr. McCoy.

Love to all!

Doctor Visits

I went to both my oncologist and surgeon this week so I wanted to bring everyone up-to-date on where I am.

After my last visit to Dr. McCoy (oncologist), my family and closed friends forbid me to go by myself, so Heather went with me and took notes! And what a great "note-taker" she is, but that's the teacher in her. Dr. McCoy agreed that I need to build up more strength before taking another round of chemo, since it will have to be a stronger dose. He agreed to let me skip treatment for a month, then he wants to do new CT and PET scans to re-evaluate the tumor. The new scans will tell him (1) if there is any activity in the newly discovered left tumor and (2) the exact size of the right one.

Naturally, I recognize that I run the risk that the tumor could grow in the month off, but as I explained to him, I take comfort in that it has not grown from 4 cm, which was what it was in March when I stopped chemo for the 1st round.

Dr. McCoy is in contact with Dr. Mike Williams, former Head of Oncology at UVA about my case, so that's my 2nd opinion. Dr. Williams was Dr. McCoy's Mentor when he was in medical school and I understand they talk regularly about me. David has researched Dr. Williams and feels very comfortable that he's on the case, so that's good enough for me.

Dr. Stoeckle (surgeon), is very pleased with how well my abdomen wound is healing, but is quick to add that it's because I'm not on chemo. He was happy to hear I'm not going to take any for a month as it will heal more in that time, too.

I am encouraged that I'm eating and moving more, but still love that afternoon nap and tire easily. Last Saturday, Cindy, David, Trisha and I went to Emerald Isle beach and as I sat under the umbrella and looked over the ocean, I had to think that I was as close to heaven as I could get within the last 8 months. What a treat that was!!

Stronger and Stronger

It's funny how not taking chemo builds up strength! This has been the first week that I have felt like doing ANYTHING since I got out of the hospital. I've run more errands this week than in the last 2 months, but sometimes I just have to stop and lay down. I still enjoy that afternoon nap, too!

Both my abdomen and old port-au-catheter wounds are healing very nicely and have I have cut back on the pain medication, which has been great. That stuff works, but I worry so about addiction. The Home Health Care nurse told me that the more I move, the less the wounds will hurt, now that the infections are clearing.

I'm still holding out for chemo in August and have appointments with both the surgeon and oncologist next week. I'm especially anxious to see Dr. Stoeckle (surgeon) as I'm hoping he'll also be pleased with the healing.

I'm off with my dear co-worker/friend Cindy Finney to Greenville today for a long weekend with David and Trisha. Cindy's going with me because I (we) just didn't think I could drive the 4 1/2 hours by myself. We're all going to Emerald Isle, NC for the day on Saturday. It was made very clear to me by Dr. Stoeckle that ocean water was COMPLETELY prohibited for me this summer. So, while the 3 of them sit and enjoy the beach and ocean, I'll be sitting on the porch of my aunt and uncle's house in the shade, but loving the view and just being at the ocean!

Roller Coaster Days

I met with Dr. McCoy on Tuesday who was concerned that the new mass on my left abdomen was blocking my kidney, so I had ultrasounds of both of them done yesterday. If they were blocked, stents would be required to be implanted to unblock either or both of them. But, luck was with me and there was no blockage.

Heather, Tom and Kay went with me for support and Heather was in the ultrasound room when Dr. Bishop gave us the news. We both cried and cried as we were ready for some good news for a change! On Tuesday, Dr. McCoy talked about keeping me comfortable until I died, etc., so that was pretty upsetting.

So the plan now is to do nothing for a month, hope my wounds will heal within that time, and try a new chemo in August.

I am happy to report that I am eating a little more, which has increased my energy level, which in turn is helping my wounds heal. The abdomen one still gives me consistent pain so I do take pain medication daily, but it does look better each day.

I hope everyone has a safe and happy 4th of July weekend!

Round #2 - No Go

I came home from the hospital last Monday and rested all week. I was able to attend the Green Family Reunion with all Mother's relatives except 2 cousins who could not come. They automatically got elected as Chairwomen of the Reunion in 2011 (sorry Lucy and Carol Ann -- you should have come!). Thanks to our "Millionaire" Uncle Jack for paying for brunch on Sunday, although we all had to write checks to him!! He has to keep his good credit report in case Auntie Ann needs more diamonds and emeralds!!

Heather is so supportive (as are David and Trisha), and I do so love her being in Blacksburg for the summer. She calls everyday to check on me and I could not move this weekend without her worrying over me. She is such a beautiful young woman, inside and out, and I'm so proud to call her my daughter. She is my "Baby Girl" for sure (Sugarland song).

They did a CT scan while I was in the hospital and determined that the 2nd round of chemo did not work. We knew there was that possibility up front but Dr. McCoy wanted to try the treatment anyway. There is a new tumor in my left abdomen that has no activity, and the right one has not shrunk.

With my children's support, I am going to take a month off from chemo. As the home health care nurse said this morning, it's all a matter of quality of life and right now, I want these wounds to health first. The only one that still causes me pain is my abdomen wound, but the port-au-catheter and right leg blood clot are doing great. I have so much empathy for people who have to take pain medication everyday -- it is the pits. I do pretty well if I can stay ahead of the pain but I usually end up behind it so that sucks (in a word).

I have an appointment with the oncologist tomorrow to determine the next plan of action, but I'm told I'll probably have to go to a stronger level of chemo. There is talk of a treatment that involves oral medications only, and I'm all for that. For the first time in my life, needles scare me to death.

I hope to go to Greenville late next week and recuperate at D & T's. They have invited me to do that and you know I'll get my walking time there, thanks to David. They have bought a home and close on it the end of July, so I'm anxious to see it.

Thanks again to the wonderful friends who have donated their precious vacation days to me so I can stay home and continue to recuperate.

Please keep those thoughts and prayers coming -- I'll take all I can get!

Beth

Beth is Home

I just spoke with Mom and Heather in Blacksburg. Mom left the hospital today. She is very tired and is happy to sleep in her own bed tonight. We have a huge family reunion this weekend in Danville, VA, and she is planning to rest up her strength for that event.

Thanks to everyone for their continued thoughts and prayers.

A Good Visit with Mom

Mom, Dad, and I just had a great visit tonight at the hospital.  She was sitting up and eating spaghetti and a little bit of salad when I walked into her room.  She was visiting with Kay and I know she loved hearing about her recent vacation.  After dinner we put on some "walking clothes" and some tennis shoes and went for a walk.  Mom made it up the hall and back!  So impressed! Awesome job Mom! :)

Mom seems to be running a fever just during the night.  We are not sure why that is, but at least she isn't running a fever during the day of a 102-104 like last week.  She is getting her wound bandages changed daily and that can be painful for her.  The nursing staff usually gives her pain medicine so if her phone is off she is probably sleeping the medication off.  Mom is still having pain in her stomach and on Sunday they did a scan to see if there is more infection in her abdomen because of all her discomfort.  We do not know the results of her scan, but hope to find out tomorrow morning.  

We are hopeful that Mom can go home sometime this week.  There was mention today of her getting to go home on Wednesday.  I think we will know more when we visit with the doctors tomorrow morning.  Mom is really motivated to go to her family reunion this coming weekend in Danville and we hope to take her there.   Her spirits remain positive and she has had a great nurse the past three days.  Here's to hoping Mom can come home this week! :) 

Good Morning All!

I am sitting with Mom this morning and I asked her how she felt on a scale of 1 to 10 and she said a 7.  I'll take that.  Mom had a pretty good day yesterday.  She ate some crackers and a small container of cherry jello and lime jello.  She walked the hallway again and did really well.  She was not running a fever yesterday which we were encouraged by.  

This morning she took some pain medicine for her stomach wound.  Her nurse just assessed her wounds and she is going to change her dresssings late morning/early afternoon so they can hopefully heal faster.  She wanted a chocolate chip cookie for breakfast and ate the whole cookie.  Hopefully we can get Mom up and walking later and she can enjoy some lunch.  

Mom's spirits are good, she continues to make me laugh, have lots of patience, and make the best of whats around.  :) 

Thursday Update

Mom is not feeling as well this morning.  She was running a fever yesterday afternoon and last night of 102.  She didnt feel like eating anything and she didnt have the energy to take another walk down the hall.  She felt sick to her stomach and was given some pain medicine to help her rest.  She slept really well last night and is enjoying a morning nap as I sit with her.  The infectious diease doctor came by to take a look at Mom and adjust some of her antibodics.  Her right side and arm are a little swollen and because of the swelling they had to move her IV line from her right arm to the top of her left hand.  Hopefully she will feel better this afternoon.  

Thanks for your support and please keep Mom in your thoughts and prayers. 

"These boots were made for walking..."

Mom is having a great start to her day here at MRH.  She got a good report from Dr. McCoy this morning.  All her blood levels look better and he wants her up and moving as much as possible.  We have followed doctor's orders so far and Mom enjoyed a Carol Lee Doughnut for breakfast and walked the hallway from one end to the other.  All the nurses were giving Mom lots of encouragment as she was walking which was awesome to see.  She did really well on her walk and it is the most she has walked in about a week.  I am so proud of her! Go Mom! :) 

Dr. Chandra (the infectious diesease doctor from Roanoke) has started Mom on a different antibodic and her nurse just started that through her IV.  It should take about 30 minutes to run through.  We all hope that this antibodic makes Mom feel even better.  She has said several times that she feels much better than yesterday morning.  The last unit of blood yesterday helped boost Mom back up as well.  

Mom is resting now and getting ready to enjoy a Wendy's cheeseburger for lunch (thanks Kay!:))  We plan on walking more this afternoon and eating lots of snacks! :)  Updates to come! 

"Feeling Pretty Crappy"

Mom is not feeling well today. She has been running a pretty high fever, as high as 104 at times, and as she puts it "feels pretty crappy". She has not been able to eat anything due to nausea, and still has little energy. She's getting 2 more units of blood today, and is receiving anti-biotics through her i.v. now. An infectious disease specialist is coming up from Roanoke to treat her. It was this physician who changed her anti-biotics in February during her ICU stay - a major factor in her turnaround. At this point, it appears that she is fighting some kind of infection.

Keep her in your thoughts. She is very sleepy from the anti-nausea medicine, and will be sleeping most of the afternoon.

She is not leaving the hospital today, and they will not even entertain the thought of letting her leave until she breaks her fever.

Beth Back in MRH

Mom has been admitted back to Montgomery Regional Hospital. The latest round of chemo hammered her pretty hard, and she was sick to her stomach for several days last week. Because she could not keep anything down, she became very dehydrated and weak. She was admitted yesterday, and will be in the hospital until either late today or tomorrow.

Her treatments are to get fluids and red blood cells, both of which should give her more strength. Her white count looks good, and other than a slight fever last night she is doing ok. Her physicians are monitoring a small blood clot in her leg, and she is receiving anti-biotics (which she was on before going back to the hospital). She also has some pain in her abdomen, either due to her recovering wound or from getting sick to her stomach (or a combination thereof).

Her spirits are good, and they are managing her symptoms well. More updates later.

Zapped!

I had my 2nd round of chemo on Friday and I don't know if it's psychological, physical or emotional, but this one has just zapped me. I've been nauseous this round and have no energy -- and I'm just on Day 5. Dr. McCoy has put me on antibiotics to hopefully prevent anything new (abscess) from occurring, so please keep those thoughts and prayers coming my way.

I am scheduled to have another CT scan done of my chest, abdomen and pelvis on July 1st, so that should tell us if the cancer is gone, or I'll have to endure another 2 rounds of chemo. I am so worn out right now that I honestly feel I need a break, but the sooner the cancer is gone, the sooner I can begin to heal and get back to a normal life. I haven't said it recently but CANCER SUCKS!

My brother, Howard, and our cousin Randy Harrison have coordinated a Green Family Reunion (Mother's family), for the weekend of the 27th in Danville, VA and I'm so looking forward to going to that. It was something Mother wished would happen for a long time, and I'm proud of Howard, Randy and our cousin Jackie for taking the lead and planning this. David, Trisha and Heather are coming so you know I'll be laughing a lot with them. They've even scheduled a photographer to come to the family home (now where our Auntie Gayle lives), and take a picture.

Heather has 1 1/2 more days left in this school year and says she thinks she's just as excited for school to end as are the children. She called me one day last week and asked me to speak to her class via speaker phone to behave. It was so funny as she was telling children to sit down and be quiet during the conversation.

David and Trisha are house-bidding, which is so exciting. Trisha is actually going to work this summer in David's lab so that will be fun. She finishes her school year this week, too, but didn't have to call her "favorite mother-in-law" on her high school sophomores yet. But that 4th period class of hers...!

More next week! Thanks to all who have commented on the blog, as well as to the wonderful VT employees who have again donated time to me so I can continue to get paid while I am out. I am so humbled.

Lost it again!

Unfortunately, I was in such pain and the wind was blowing so hard that I had to miss Relay for Life. I really regretted it as I wanted to be there to support my co-workers but I knew I wouldn't be able to walk the Survivor Walk and didn't want to stay out in the wind. I have to do everything I can to stay as healthly as possible before I have chemo again on Friday.

I got up Saturday morning to find grey hair all over my sheets and quickly realized I was loosing my hair again! I just bust out laughing because I just had it trimmed last week so I could go out without a hat or my wig. My oncologist nurse had told me that I might not loose it because they were using the same chemo, which they weren't sure would work. But I'm trying to believe that if the chemo can kill my hair follacles, it is hopefully killing the cancer, too!!

Heather came in for the weekend to "look at me," and that was so special. She's a wonderful daughter. We did a couple of errands and she brought me dinner Saturday night. She'll be home for the summer in a couple of weeks and I sure will love seeing her regularly.

My co-workers brought dinner over tonight and will bring another meal over tomorrow night. I sure do appreciate it as I've lost another 6 pounds and am now down to 125. Daddy and I went to Cracker Barrel last night and I got a vegetable plate. I only ate half of it, but that corn and green beans were sure good!

I'll try to update the blog again after chemo. Keep those thoughts and prayers coming, please!

Getting ready for Relay for Life

I have not had a good week, as my abdomen wound developed some type of infection, so I've been on a lot of pain meds this week. With all this rain, it has been real easy to stay home under my new afghan and read/take naps.

Thanks to my wonderful co-worker, Carrie Miller, I was reminded that the Relay for Life is this Friday at Christiansburg High School. Since my office sponsored a team in my honor, I hope to walk the Survivor Walk that night. I am blessed to have the best co-workers!! I told Carrie that I might not make it around the full lap, but I was sure going to try, as I definitely want to support the team.

I have my (hopefully) last chemo treatment next Friday (June 5th), then will have another PET scan 3 weeks after that. Please keep those thoughts and prayers coming my way!

I love you all!

Round 1 Results

I had the new Round 1 of chemo last week and were it not for a previous wound, all would have gone great. No nausea and so far, I haven't lost any of my new hair! (If you call my cellphone, my default ring tone is "Give Me a Head of Hair," from the "Hair" musical soundtrack)!

I'm at Day 10 right now of my 21-day chemo cycle. My blood level went to .9 this past Monday, but was back to the normal level of 1 yesterday. Thanks to my wonderful friends, Kay and Joe Hunnings invitation, I stayed at their house Tuesday and last night just in case my energy level dropped quickly as it has in the past. I'm back to my own home today.

However, my original port-au-catheter sight opened up and abscessed almost immediately and I developed another blood clot in my right leg. Both were quite painful which required stronger pain medication, but thankfully neither required surgery or hospitalization -- for which I am TRULY thankful!!

Round 2 of chemo is scheduled for the first week of June, then 3 weeks later I will have another PET scan to determine if the mass still has "activity" or not. If there is no activity, I will begin what I hope will be the recovery process from everything.

Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers that I continue to gain my strength and return to normal health (whatever that will be for me!!).

Thanks!

Round 2 of Chemo

I had the first of what will hopefully be the last of my chemo treatments today. For the first time since November, I feel like I can see a tunnel. I'm trying to avoid "negative waves" as my late sainted mother would say and hope that the light will not be far away. I am truly ready for all of this to be over so I can try and get back to a normal life again!

I had a wonderful weekend with David, Trisha and Heather in Greenville, NC for Mother's Day. Nothing lifts my spirits more than being with my children (now including new daughter-in-lawTrisha, of course!), and hearing them laugh. We had after dinner drinks at an outside bar who had a live band in New Bern Saturday night. I even got up and danced the Electric Slide!!

I sure have come a long way!

Port Out

After developing a blood clot in my new port-au-catheter, the incision had to be opened to drain last week. Unfortunately, as it was draining, the port was pushed to skin-level so Dr. Stoeckle had to remove it today. So no port-au-catheters for me.

I have an appointment with Dr. McCoy (oncologist) tomorrow, to find out the results of the PET scan done last Saturday, and when chemo will begin. I'll update the blog after that.

I am SO ready for my body to heal and chemo to be completed so I can begin to get a normal life back. I've lost 48 pounds so have had to buy all new clothes which is costly. Since I'll not go back to work until late summer, I just bought comfortable "stay-at-home" clothes for now. Once chemo is completed, I'll have to get some "working" clothes.

I'm going to Greenville to be with David, Trisha and Heather for Mother's Day and am looking forward to that. I'm going to spend the night with my aunt and uncle in Danville to break up the trip since it will be my first trip by myself.

As always, thanks for the thoughts and prayers.

Getting ready for Chemo

The port-au-catheter surgery went well, although I had to have the needle inserted into my neck as Dr. Stoeckle could not get it into an artery around my heart. Then I developed a blood clot (no surprise I wouldn't develop something!), so he had to remove the outside stitches around the port on Sunday. I'm on an antibiotic for a week, and it seems to have helped as the clot is draining and shrinking, thank goodness.

I'll have a PET scan done on Saturday to determine the size of the mass, the neck sutures removed on Monday, then meet with Dr. McCoy on Tuesday to discuss the plan-of-action for chemo, which will probably begin the week after Mother's Day. The PET scan will also determine how many treatments I will have to endure but right now he thinks it will be 4. I may not have to be hospitalized for the treatment, too, which would be great.

Please keep me on your prayer lists!

I stopped by my office after lunch this afternoon, and it was so uplifting to see everyone again. I heard again and again how I hadn't updated my blog. So here goes....

I had a wonderful week in Duck, NC, and the icing was the wedding of David and Trisha. I had (STUPIDLY) dropped a television on my right leg about 3 weeks before, which caused a blood clot. It was lanced twice, but was still very painful. So, if I didn't have to be standing, I was sitting or laying down with it propped up. I was able to dance Saturday night, which was important to me! It has drained a lot since being home and is disappearing.

My surgeon will attempt a 2nd port-au-catheter implant on Tuesday. I don't have to tell you the anxiety I have about another surgery, but my veins are so small that finding one is very painful. Please pray that I do not develop an infection.

I should start a 2nd more intense chemotherapy the first part of May. This treatment will require me to be hospitalized (another fear), for 2 days, but I know that is where I should be. If anything does go wrong, I'll be in the right place. I should only have to do this for 4 treatments, so that's good.

I am honored that a Relay for Life team has been formed in my name, so please support that if you can. David is right -- $5 can go a long way -- and as darling Blakely says, "cancer sucks."

I'll try to update again next week.

Support Cindy in Relay For Life

Hello Everyone,

I'm writing to ask for your support. One of mom's closest friends, Cindy Finney, is raising money for Relay for Life. This charity seeks to support those living with cancer, celebrate the lives of those who are winning their battle against cancer, and remember those who lost their lives to cancer.

Cindy is heading up a team called "Beth's Blog Buddies".

Given that you have all supported mom so much by checking on her blog, you are officially a "Beth's Blog Buddy". We ask that you support Cindy by visiting her page and making a donation. It doesn't matter how big or how small your support - $5 can go a long way!

Let's help Cindy shatter her fund raising goals, and continue our support of Mom.

Visit Cindy's page BY CLICKING HERE.

I have been home for 1 week now and doing much better. Nothing like sleeping in your own bed. I had the twin bed taken down out of the dining room, and go upstairs to my bedroom to sleep. It took me quite some time in the beginning, but I can do it now with just one foot on each step. It's good the railing is still holding though.
There is nothing like sleeping in your own bed to make you feel better. I do go upstairs to my bedroom everyday, even though it took me several stops on the staircase in the beginning. At least the railing is still holding, thank goodnes.
Dr. Stoeckle (surgeon), gave me the green light to start taking showers again and man, does that feel good. He said I'm doing great and was really impressed with how well my wounds are healing, especially my abdomen.
While preparing for David's wedding is wonderfully occuping my time for the next week, I have been able to get out and run a few errands each day, but those afternoon naps sure feel good.
I have decided to have a 2nd port-au-catheter put in - this one on my left side. When I get back from the wedding, I'll have both abdomen and shoulder wounds cultured, then put on antibiotics for a week.
The surgery is scheduled for the 22nd and I'll have IV antibiotics while I'm in the hospital.
Because I have previously had CHOP chemotherapy and taken a hiatus, Dr. McCoy (oncologist), told me that the mass will not accept it again, so I have to go to the "secondary" level of treatment. This will involve admission to the hospital for 2 days every 3 weeks, and having IV chemo infused at a slower pace. While the "h" word scared me to death, after talking to my "longest best friend" Ann Rhudy, I am convinced that is exactly where I should be.
The biggest "pro" for this treatment is that I will only have to have it 4 times, rather than the 8 or 12 I was looking at with CHOP.
I'm having CTs done again on my abdomen, chest and neck on Monday, which will give Dr. McCoy time to review them and discuss my case with his mentor at UVA (yes, yes, I know - UVA - but they do have some excellent doctors!). I'll probably begin that treatment at the end of April/first of May.
My office has brought food, I'm walking a mile with friends each day, and getting plenty of rest, so feel I am improving a lot. It just goes to show that Dorothy was right, "There's no place like home."

Going Home

David has a German Club BOD meeting Saturday in Blacksburg, so I'm going to ride back to Blacksburg with him. I have REALLY improved during these last 8 days, thanks to Trisha and David, but I need to get home and start learning to take care of myself full-time.
I want to see friends again, so please give me a few days to get used to being home, then call and come by to visit. I would even be up to playing bridge, Bunko or Texas Hold 'Em one afternoon, too!!
I appreciate all of you who have sent cards to my 3 previous living addresses -- they have meant so much. I cannot find the words to express how truly blessed I am to have so many caring friends.
Looking forwards to seeing you soon!

These Boots Were Made For Walkin'

Click on the "play" button to see how good mom's getting at moving around (with groceries in tow)!

Recuperating at Camp Greenville

As you can see, I am making MAJOR progress in walking.  When I first got here, I really appreciated David's offer to take a walk.  Now I hide in the closet when he comes home to avoid going!  Ha Ha!!  It's like all exercising -- I hate the thought of doing it but feel wonderful when we get back to the house.  We extended our "turn-around" spot today and I hope I can get around the block by this time next week.  I haven't used my walker since I've been here and my balance is much better.

The picture on the top is of Leroy and me in our typical afternoon position (H -- I was talking to you when David took this picture).  Leroy loves to have me join him on his afternoon walks, even though I'm not up to throwing the Frisbee for him to catch yet.

My wounds are slowly healing and the Home Health Care nurses are fabulous. I had my FIRST SHOWER yesterday since November, rather than a sponge bath, and it felt so good.  Having a nurse here helping me gave me the confidence to give it a try.

Trisha and David are both wonderful cooks and I've been well fed.  They bought a bag of BBQ Fritos and a tub of onion dip and I have even pigged out on that -- can you imagine me eating junk food when 2 weeks ago I was hardly eating at all?!

As always, thank you so much for the cards, emails and calls -- I am truly blessed with the gift of friendship.

Beth In Greenville, NC

Mom arrived in Greenville, NC this afternoon.  She will be staying with Trisha and I for a few weeks.  The weather is really warm right now, and we are glad she's here.  She's walking well, and I was really excited when she got out of the car on her own.  

Our address down here is: 

218 Sumrell St

Greenville, NC 27858

I'm at Kay and Joe's and being well cared for, but am very tired and extremely weak. The Home Health care nurse told me for everyday I was in the hospital, it will take me 2-3 to recover. I'm looking forward to going to David and Trisha's next week, where the weather will be much warmer, I hope.
Their address is: 218 Sumrell Drive, Greenville, NC 27858.

Beth has left the Building!

After 5 weeks in MRH, mom has left the building. She is very tired, and was looking forward to un-interrupted sleep (very hard to come by in the hospital). We are all very excited. She is at Joe and Kay Hunnnings' house for the time being, and she will likely come down to stay with Trisha and I in Greenville early next week.

While there is still fighting to be done, mom will not receive any more chemotherapy for at least another month. For the time being, we can all be happy that she is getting her strength back.

Continued Improvement

Mom is doing well.  She is out of the bed moving with a walker several times a day, and there is talk of discharging her from the hospital!

She's eating a lot more, thanks in large part to the good cooking and persistence of great friends.  The main line in her neck, through which she has received nutrients and medicine for the last 3 weeks, is to be removed tomorrow.  Her wounds are looking better, and her spirits are higher. 

Here's to continued improvement!   

Up and Moving

Beth continues to amaze us. She got up today with the help of PT and walked across the hall with a walker. She's so determined to do everything she can to improve. She's had 3 Ensures today, a bottle of water, pasta, broccolli and Wendy's chili - how about that?? This morning she felt good enough to put on make-up and REAL pajamas. She looks beautiful.



Dr. McCoy told her yesterday that she'll most likely be here for another week, he doesn't want to release her too early. We're encouraged with her progress.



She says to tell you all thanks so much for all the cards and prayers!

Out of ICU!!

I went to see Beth at lunch today and it was so good to see that she was out of ICU. Cindy Finney was visiting with her for the day and encouraging Beth to eat and drink. In fact, Beth ate one-half of a BLT sandwich! She had been up in a chair for an hour and a half and had her bandage changed, so she was ready for a long nap. She promised she would eat more when she woke up - I'm heading back out there now to make sure she did that!!

She looked good and was told by the nurse that if she continued to eat, they would probably take away the nutrient bag - that seemed to make her very happy.

Keep the prayers and good wishes coming!

Exciting News!!

We are having another great morning with Mom.  Dr. McCoy is very encouraged and all her numbers and blood levels are normal.  He even suggested that Mom can be transferred back to the regular hospital floor and out of ICU.  We are currently waiting on an open bed, so it may not be today, but it will happen soon.  Everyone is excited about this news to say the least! :) 

Mom just finished her morning routine with the Physical Therapists.  We were so proud of her when she sat up in bed, stood up, and then shifted into the chair.  She showed even more improvements from yesterday morning.  It is amazing to see Mom work her arms and her legs almost completely on her own.  

We will continue to encourage Mom to EAT EAT EAT today.  She had some cereal for breakfast and a couple bits of a banana.  We will still try the Ensure shakes with Mom, but I think we might have to think about other high protein foods, or at least another favor. 

We are very encouraged and excited with all the great news today - lets keep it coming! :) 

 

A GREAT weekend

When we walked in on Saturday and saw mom awake in bed and smiling, we were hoping for a good weekend.  Well.... she had a great weekend!  

The amount of pain she is having has decreased significantly from last week, and she is receiving less pain medicine now than in almost a week.  Her vital signs all look good, and the abscesses that she developed last week are looking much better.  All of the infections on her body and in her lungs are under control right now.  

Mom has been through a lot of physical therapy this weekend, and was moved into a chair both Saturday and Sunday.  This is exhausting for her, but each day since Saturday has gotten easier.  She has difficulty sitting up without help, but we're moving in the right direction.  She stood up today with considerable help from PT and moved into a chair.  This picture was taken of her this morning, and she wanted us to put it on her blog so everyone could "see" her.  

Her physicians showed more optimism this morning than they have in a while.  Her orders are to EAT EAT EAT EAT and move.  She doesn't really feel like eating, and this has been interesting. We have been shoving Ensure protein drinks and anything else we can down her throat.  There have been multiple battles between her and us to get food in her mouth.  We are the "Ensure Nazis", and she's told us on several occasions that we "are evil and must be destroyed".   She is out-numbered and our collective stubbornness is greater than hers (most of the time).   

We are very encouraged by her recent improvements, but mom is still very sick.  Anyone who has been through this with a loved one knows about the roller coaster ride.  To all of you out there who are thinking, praying, lighting candles, wishing, hoping for mom... keep doing what you are doing.  

Friday Morning Update

As we know, Beth was usually more upbeat as the weekends got closer. Today appears to be no different. She is more awake than usual but still in pain, which is being managed by the medications. David and Heather have adorned 'virtual' drill sergeant hats and have made her do a few arm and leg exercises. While these were painful, they are necessary. They will continue to attempt to push her today for more movement. She has also consumed an entire protein shake which consists of about 700 calories of much needed nurishment.
Keep your thoughts and prayers coming.

Resting Peacefully

Mom is resting peacefully this morning.  She is experiencing intermittent pain, but she is being kept comfortable by the medicine.  She is drifting in and out of sleep.  Moving is very painful, so the nurses give her bath and change her wound dressings all at once to minimize her pain.  Her temperature and vital signs are all good this morning.  

No Major Updates

There is nothing new to report.  Mom has been in a "holding pattern" for the last 2 days.  Nothing has gotten worse, but she is not improving either.  She is eating a little now, and we hope that continues.  Please keep her in your thoughts.  I know she draws strength from the amount of support she is getting.  

Friday Update

Mom has been up most of the afternoon, and managed to eat some tomato soup.  Her pain is pretty significant, so they have upped the strength of her pain medication.  She has gotten pretty sassy this afternoon due to the strength of the pain meds, and we've all had some good laughs together.  Despite all she is going through, she's still got her quick wit.

Pneumonia is still a worry.  She received 2 vials of gamma-globulin today, with another set for tonight.  Some positive momentum would really be nice right about now.  

Thursday Update

Mom is not feeling well this morning.  She had a good afternoon yesterday, and even managed to eat a half a bowl of soup.  Her pain has increased through the night and now they have upped her pain medicine.  Accordingly, she is really drowsy.  

She is running a slight fever, but other than that is about the same as yesterday.  Her physicians are becoming concerned that she isn't getting better.  She isn't getting worse, but she is still not able to move much at all, and it's very painful for her to be re-positioned in her bed (which they do to prevent bed sores).  Despite eating a little, she is receiving nutrients through her i.v. but still does not have any energy.  As is to be expected, her 4th round of chemo has been postponed indefinitely. 

Emotionally she is down this morning.  I can't imagine how frustrated and scared she must feel.  We are encouraging her constantly when she is awake.  Mostly we will just allow her to rest this morning and maybe this afternoon she will feel a little better.  

Wednesday

Mom had a good report this morning from Dr. McCoy.  He was pleased with her all her numbers.  Her kidney and liver levels are back to normal.  The infection in her arm seems to be better.  Mom does not have a temperature this morning which is great news.  

Dr. McCoy wants her to move around a little bit today and eat some breakfast.  The nurses are trying to get her to sit up so she can enjoy some breakfast.  She had a couple bites of cheerios and some slips of Ensure (her favorite).  This is painful for Mom, but I will say she looks great sitting up.  

The nurses also brought in her breathing tube.  Our goal is to get her to blow about a 1250.  She reached 500 this morning.  David and I have been recruited as  her "Team in Training" so we will be helping her every hour to help her reach her goal. 

More to come later. 

 

Tuesday

Mom had a good afternoon yesterday, and was talkative.  Her voice is coming back a little, and we knew when she whispered to us that we "get the hell out of here and go get something to eat" that she was feeling stronger than yesterday morning.  

This morning she is not feeling as well.  Her breaths are becoming more shallow, and we need her to cough and take deeper breaths to prevent pneumonia.  She appears to be fighting an infection in her right arm and right side of her chest.  Her white count spiked yesterday, and has fallen some today.  The fall may be due to the newer anti-biotic (vancomycin) started yesterday morning.  She is running a slight fever this morning but not as high as yesterday.  

Her blood pressure is better this morning.  Her kidney function levels continue to improve, and they have taken her off of the bicarbonate (since her acid/base balance is better).  Accordingly, they are going to start pushing some of the fluid off of her with Lasix.  She has developed significant edema (swelling) from all of the ivs given to wash her kidneys out.

She had a bath and a change of clothes this morning, which was painful for her, so she is sleeping now from the pain medicine.  

Monday Update

Mom is not feeling very well this morning.  She has a temperature, and her white count is up.  There is a worry that her body is fighting infection, so she has been put on another anti-biotic (vancomycin).  Infection is the biggest worry today.  

She is feeling significant pain in her right arm, and this may be where the infection risk is the most serious.  She has received pain medication periodically to keep her comfortable.  

Her kidney and liver function both look better today, but her levels are still too high.  They have been trending downward, and this is encouraging.  

Right now Mom is resting comfortably. 

Sunday Update

Mom looked better this morning.  Her color was good, she was more talkative, and she had her eyes open for a good part of the morning talking to us.  Her kidney and liver numbers were better this morning than yesterday.  We were encouraged this morning, as were her physicians.  

This afternoon she started feeling significant pain in her right arm and chest.  Right now we're not sure what is causing the pain.  It has gotten significant for her, so she has been put back on morphine.  She is resting peacefully.  

Her blood pressure is holding steady.  Her heart rate is still elevated.  She has a slight temperature, and right now we are worried about infection somewhere in her chest or arm.  

Transferred to ICU

Mom has been transferred to the Intensive Care Unit.  Her physicians are concerned about the function of her kidneys, and she has reached a point where they felt she needed 1-to-1 care from her nurses.  A nephrologist (kidney doctor) is coming in this afternoon to assess her kidney function.  This is a big worry right now.  

The blood clot on her leg has not changed and is still painful for her.  She continues to be on heparin to keep it at bay.  Her liver is functioning ok, about as well as yesterday; that needs to improve.  Her abdomen wound is not looking very good, and there is talk that the wound-vac may have to go back on.  She has been placed on iv nutrients to get some protein and nutrients into her body as her blood protein levels are very low.  Without adequate protein, her body is having a hard time healing itself.  

Her red blood count is too low again, and she'll get 3 units of red cells today.  

She went for a CT scan this morning as there is a worry about internal bleeding.  They can't understand why her red count is low.  The scan results were negative - she is not hemorrhaging internally that they can see.  They had to do the scan 'without contrast' because her kidneys are not functioning properly enough to clear the dye needed for contrast.  The scan did not indicate bleeding in her head either.  

Obviously we are all concerned, as is she.  Her energy is low, but she was clearly upset at this news.  This is the best place for her right now, and we're glad she'll get such close attention, but our fears have been elevated a little.  Her cell phone has been turned off and her visitors are now limited.  Mom is really in a battle right now.  

No More Wound-Vac

Mom is doing ok this morning and has more energy than she has over the last few days.  I drove down yesterday and am sitting in her room now.  The most exciting news is that the wound-vacuum was removed from her abdomen last night.  She's had a tube coming out of her abdomen since Thanksgiving, and it's finally gone.  She said she even slept a little on her stomach last night, and I'm sure that felt good.  They replaced the vacuum with a wet-to-dry dressing, similar to the one that is still on her collarbone.  

Concerning are the function of her liver and kidneys.  Her blood tests yesterday indicated that her liver and kidneys were not functioning well, so she's been put on a saline drip to wash as much of that out as possible.  Dr. McCoy's report this morning was encouraging - the levels have stabilized - but now they need to start going down.  Due to significant bruising from all of the sticks in her arms, establishing an iv is a challenge.  Yesterday they put a main line in her jugular vein to draw blood and administer meds. 

Her motor function is still depressed.  She has trouble getting a drink to her mouth or scratching her nose, for example.  No change with the clot, and the swelling in her right leg remains.  

Mom is also still lethargic, but I'm told that is improving when compared to a few days ago. She drifts in and out of sleep most of the time.  She can barely talk, but the thrush seems to be going away.  She has to gargle and swallow some medicine a few times a day for this.  

She really needs to get out of bed today.  We will try and get her in a wheelchair and take her around the hospital for a change of scenery.  It was even mentioned that she can go outside and get some fresh air if she wants (and if it warms up).  She can also eat anything that she wants, so we'll do what we can to get what would taste good to her.  She really needs to eat. 

Her spirits are ok.  She's happy that the wound-vac is off, but scared of the battle still ahead of her.  What she needs more than anything is some positive momentum - something good happening without being 'cancelled out' with another complication.  She has also mentioned her mother a lot.  Mammy (Libba) left us one year ago today, and she is on mom's mind.  This morning I asked, "What do you think Mammy would tell you if she was here".  She said, "She'd tell me to quit thinking about her and to only think about getting better."  

That sounds about right.  

Wednesday night update

I'm Beth's little brother and I'm in technology but have never posted a blog before.. I apologize upfront for any confusion (multiple posts, wrong spellings, etc.) that may be included.In terms of good and bad days, I would classify this day as both. As written before, we received the good news that the tumor size has been reduced. This will require 3 more chemo sessions. As the doctor had hoped, the chemo appears to be working.The bad news is that the blood clot has not reduced and the pain in her leg continues. Her medication will be adjusted in an attempt to reduce the size of clot. (It currently runs from her thigh all the way down to past her knee.)She is also very groggy and sleepy, which could be a symptom of the multiple pain medications. The doctor is going to adjust the medication again.More to follow tomorrow.

Staying Put

Mom's hematologist/oncologist (Dr. McCoy) came by for his morning rounds and was pleased with the CT scan results indicating tumor shrinkage. His major concern is the blood clot in mom's right leg. The blockage is significant - from her hip down to her knee - and there is substantial swelling and pain in her right leg. She'll continue to receive coumadin and hopefully we'll see results from the blood thinners over the next few days. Although it is very painful for her, she will need to get out of bed a few times today.

Her physicians have indicated that she'll need at least 3 more rounds of chemotherapy, and she is disappointed at that news. We'll continue to encourage her that "it's working, so keep going", but as all of us could imagine she's more-than-ready for the end of chemo to arrive. She still has the wound-vac on her abdomen, and we have not heard when they will be taking that off.

Mom is pretty groggy from the pain medication, and her voice is very weak. Communicating directly with her is a challenge on the phone right now.

Given the clot, mom will be in the hospital for quite some time. We can't say for sure, but likely another week. Accordingly, the family are going back into "shifts" mode. Howard (mom's youngest brother) is driving down today, and Jim (mom's younger brother) is coming in on Thursday. Heather will be in this weekend, and I'm driving down early next week. Mom has such a solid support network of friends, too. So many people have stopped by, and we especially thank Cindy for everything she has done for mom. Mom is so fortunate to have such loving friends.

We discourage calls to her room (so she can rest), and she can't really talk anyway due to the thrush. If you would like to send her a card, she is in room 205 of Montgomery Regional Hospital, 3700 South Main St, Blacksburg VA 24060.

Some Good News

Mom was really groggy today from the pain medicine, and she hasn't been sleeping too well.  They did a CT scan today on her abdomen to see if the tumor has decreased in size.  I just got off the phone with the nurse, and she said the tumor has decreased from 11cm in November down to 6cm today.  This is really good news.  

Mom will find out tomorrow - she has been asleep ever since the results came in, and the nurse did not want to wake her.  Mom was really worried today about the results of the scan.  I asked her how she felt, and her words were "terrified".  Her fear was that the CT scan would indicate that the tumor hadn't decreased, yet she's been through so much since November.  

I can't wait for her to find this out tomorrow.  Dr. McCoy will probably do his rounds between 7 and 8.  

She is still feeling significant pain and swelling from the blood clot in her right leg, and they will continue to monitor the clot.  The ultrasound of her leg was painful today, and we should know more tomorrow about the status of the clot.  

But for Mom, any piece of good news is a huge moral victory.  I can't wait for her to hear this news about the tumor size.  

Holding Strong... Except for the Voice!

Mom had a good weekend in the hospital and is beginning to bounce back after the latest round of chemo. She continues to receive heparin to decrease the blood clots in her legs, and has been able to move around a little.

She has developed a bit of infection in her mouth (thrush), and I'm guessing that it may have come about from her week immune system after Chemo #3. It hurts her a little to talk, and she's really hoarse - hopefully the infection will subside after a few days. She can barely talk, though, so calling her on the phone may be futile!

Other than that, things are fine. Still has the wound-vac in the abdomen, and her clavicle wound continues to heal (slowly). Physical therapy is set to come this afternoon, and they will get her out of bed and walking. No talk of letting her leave in the hospital in the near future, so she'll be in MRH for a few more days at least. She's in good hands with Dr. McCoy and the progressive care team at Montgomery, and we are thankful for all of their compassion.

Another Extended Stay at MRH

We originally thought mom would just go to the hospital for a day or so to get blood, but as it turns out, she's going to stay for longer. They have found two blood clots - one in each leg - and she has been placed back on bed rest. The DVT (deep vein thrombosis) in her right leg is much bigger and is causing her a considerable amount of pain. She has been put back on morphine for pain management. The clot in her left leg is much smaller, and wasn't causing noticeable pain, but it was found after they imaged her legs (MRI).

They are worried that the clots may spread to other parts of her body, so they have begun treatment immediately. She has been placed on heparin to reduce the clotting in her blood. At this point, they are not sure why she has developed these blood clots, but from what I understand there is an increased risk of blood clots with chemotherapy.

Her spirits are still good, and we are pleased that she is being treated on the 2nd floor of MRH. The progressive care unit is really good there, and mom knows them ALL by name (not surprisingly). She has insisted that Heather and I "stay in our routines", so we are not planning to go to Blacksburg yet. As her immune system is bouncing back, it may be appropriate for those of you in the area to see her later on this weekend (Sunday perhaps). In the mean time, she didn't get much sleep last night so it might be good to let her rest for a few days.

Staying for a while

Mom received 3 units of blood starting early this morning.  She is feeling better, but they have found a blood clot in her right leg. Starting tomorrow, they'll give her some medicine to bust up the blood clot.  It's been causing her considerable pain, so hopefully the clot will break up soon. 

Her spirits are high, and she feels ok about being back in the hospital.  We are all happy that she is at MRH, since Dr. McCoy will be able to check on her.  He's been great and has treated mom for years.   She will stay in the hospital through the weekend and until she gets her strength back.  

Beth Back in the Hospital

Mom is back in the hospital.  She is feeling very weak, and is currently in her "nadir" (low-point) after the latest round of chemo (administered last week).  Her prognosis is good.  She will receive 3 units of blood tonight and tomorrow, and should go home tomorrow evening.  The physicians are not worried - this is purely precautionary.  

She was staying with the Hunnings and was a little pale and very weak this morning.   Kay took her to Dr. McCoy's office around lunchtime, and he decided that she needed blood when her hemoglobin levels were around 7.3 (it should be around 12).  

Mom is in MRH again, in Room 205 (she was in 208 for 3 weeks in December).  She got to know her nurses so well after her previous stay, so she is in very good and friendly hands.  

It is raining here today, but we're expecting ice and snow later. My wound vacuum went off at 6:45 this morning and stopped working, so Kay, Joe and I had to decide if we were going to try and get me to my house, or stay here. I called the manufacturer, and just like OnStar, they had it Reset within 10 minutes!! You just gotta love modern technology.
I had my IVIG treatment yesterday, as well as my blood levels. Both my white and red blood cell levels are low, but not enough to require blood, thank goodness. But, the loss of energy is frustrating and naptime comes regularly.
I started going through all the cards, gifts notes, etc. last weekend and I know I have been horrible about not writing thank-you notes. Honestly, while I was on morphine, I cannot remember who sent/gave me what, so I do beg your forgiveness if I haven't written to you personally.
I have CT scans scheduled for my abdomen, chest and neck on the 9th, which should give us a better idea of how the tumor has progressed (or disappeared!). The 4th chemo treatment is scheduled for the 11th. David will be coming up for that as he wants to check on me, too!
Thanks (as always), for all the support! I love you!

It's been a good week

I was having trouble getting into the Blog, but thanks to David's good help, I'm back.

It's been a good week. I was on my 3rd week "high energy," so was able to organize some things includng the MOUNDS of paperwork that come from stays in 2 different hospitals and about 6 doctors on my case!!

Thank you SO much for the generous donations of Leave I have received. As of 4 o'clock today, I officially went on the Family Leave Program, having expired all my leave I previously have. Each donation just brings me to tears, as I never realized the generousity of people who are both friends and family but are also strangers to me. I truly intend to "Pay it Forward" once I get healthy again.

I had my 3rd chemo treatment yesterday so begin the "down week" today. I have my blood tested next week and hope I do not need another blood transfusion. My levels prior to the treatment were very good and Dr. McCoy was very pleased.

Dr. Stoeckle changed my bandages today and removed the rest of the abdomen stitches, which have been in for 7 weeks. Wasn't too much fun getting them out, but it sure was great to be done with that part of the procedure. I will need to keep the wound vacuum on until all drainage stops or until it isn't deep enough to warrant it's use. Hope this isn't "TMI" for some of you!

I have been staying with Kay and Joe Hunnings this week, but will go home for the weekend as John is coming to give them a break. Like the Rhudy's, they have been the best host/hostess and my time here has been very good.

Cindy Finney has been wonderful about being my taxi driver for doctor appointments and I do so appreciate her supervisor letting her do this for me -- Thanks Lefter!

I hope to try and work toward getting at home and taking care of myself after next week. Only then can I continue to regain my strength and try to get back to the office and my regular routine.

Thanks to everyone for all the calls, cards and well wishes -- I do so appreciate them!

Requests

Nothing new today, but I'm on my "high" energy week. John is coming tomorrow to take me to my appointment with Dr. Stoeckle (surgeon) so that gives Ann a break from being taxi driver!! She's still responsible as cook, though! Our friends Sue and Bill Foster brought over dinner and man, was it good. We loved that fresh fruit salad -- and all the rest!!

Tomorrow, two members of Tech's Personnel department are coming to the Rhudy's to discuss the Family Medical Leave program with me. My request should be approved within 48 hours, and an email will be sent university-wide that I am in need of leave donations. When you receive the email, if you are a State employee, would you please consider donating Annual Leave to me? I cannot ask for donations once the email is sent. I sure would hate to go Leave-Without-Pay! Faculty should check with their departments as Tom can donate leave, but Daddy cannot, so it must have something to do with status.

Thanks to 5 generous people, I have received that many units of blood and may need more after each chemo treatment. If you are not a regular blood donor, would you please consider donating? Ann said it only takes about a hour. I have O-positive and was told one can donate blood specifically for me. If I don't need it, it will go to the next person who does.

I hope everyone is doing well otherwise. I miss everyone and hope to see you soon!

Weekend Update

Staying at the "Rhudy House of Love" as Heather calls it, has definitely helped. Dan and Ann have been absolutely the ultimate caregivers and I've gotten a lot of rest, and been fed very well, of course! We've had our share of talks and laughter, too! As they are leaving for Florida next weekend, Kay and Joe Hunnings have invited me to stay with them. I'm hoping that prior to my 3rd round of chemo on the 21st, I'll be able to get home for a morning or afternoon, as I really do want to be able to take care of myself eventually.

Both wounds are healing nicely -- changing that vacuum dressing requires pre-pain medication, but is bearable once that kicks in.

The spot on my left arm is shrinking, no fever and fortunately my blood levels have been good. Next week should be a higher energy level, then I start the downhill on the 21st. I did discuss with Dr. McCoy's office the rounds of chemo treatment versus the all-important 2009 date of April 11th (David and Trisha's wedding). As I want to be at "peak" energy level, they will move Round 6 to the week after the wedding so that made me very happy.

I'm hoping I can do some reports for the office prior to going on the Family Medical Leave program. I swear I have seen every "Little House on the Prairie" episode so would welcome somthing for which I could use my brain!

I do so appreciate everyone who is willing to donate time to me. It still baffles me that I was supposed to have something so simple, yet complications from surgery has made it very hard. Thanks to everyone for the calls, cards and posts - I am so blessed to have so many caring friends!

Wednesday's Update

Mom went to the hospital today (outpatient clinic) and received 2 units of blood to increase her red count. She is still very weak, but should start to bounce back a little by the end of the week as her body recovers from Chemo Round 2. The swelling in her arm and legs has gone down substantially, which is very encouraging. The combination of the reduction in swelling and her decreased food intake have accounted for a loss of 30 pounds over the last 6 weeks, although she would not necessarily recommend this particular dieting regimen to any readers hoping to fulfill New Years' Resolutions!

She has a red spot on her left elbow that her physicians are interested in monitoring (opposite arm where all of the problems happened before). They are a little worried about that becoming infected, so they have put her on anti-biotics (keflex) as a precautionary measure.

Dr. Stoeckle (surgeon) also saw Mom today, and is pleased about the healing of her wounds. The clavicle wound looks really good, and shows all signs of healing. Accordingly, they are only placing gauze over that wound. The abdomen wound looks better, but the wound-vac will be maintained for probably another month to keep infection away.

Mom will continue to stay at the Rhudy's house for the near future.

Spirits High, Blood Cells Low

Hi everyone. Mom is doing ok this week. She is staying with Ann and Dan Rhudy in Christiansburg for a few days while John spends time with his family.

Mom is now 7 days out from chemo, which is when her blood cell count reaches a nadir. Some background: all cells in our bodies are constantly being broken down, and new ones are constantly made to replace them. Different tissues in the body have different 'turnover' rates. Hair, intestinal, and cancer cells are types that turnover fast, and all are the most disrupted by chemo. In general, chemotherapy does not kill cells that are already alive, but disrupts the cell cycle of cells that are being made (technically, Rituxan is an exception to this rule as it marks CD20 positive B cells for destruction). It takes about 5-7 days for the alive blood cells to die off, and they are temporarily not replaced due to the chemo. Hopefully, the dividing cancer cells are not replaced at all - that's the point!

Accordingly, due to low red and white blood cells Mom is feeling very weak right now. Physically she is able to move around and she's loving Ann's cooking, but she just does not have much energy due to her low blood cell counts. This is expected. She went to see Dr. McCoy (hematologist/oncologist) today, and he is going to give her a blood infusion so that her red count increases. Her white blood cell count should begin to increase again towards the end of this week. She is most suceptible to infection at this point.

Mom has not felt too nauseated from the chemo (knock on wood), but it does appear that some of her hair is starting to fall out. She has an appointment with McCoy tomorrow to get the blood, and another on Thursday with Dr. Stoeckle (surgeon) to look at her wounds. She is still receiving coumadin, but her blood has maintained an appropriate "viscosity".

She hopes to give another update herself soon.

Hey everyone!

Thanks again for all the messages.

Just when I thought things were getting better (and they are health-wise), Freedom First Fraud Dept called me New Year's morning and told me that some on-line hacker had accessed my Debit Card to the tune of $1,300!! So yesterday we had to go to the local branch here and file a Fraud Report, THEN I had to ride to Blacksburg to file a Police Report. I was dog-dead tired by the time we got home and I went straight to bed!

John's ex-wife died this morning, so my longest best friend Ann Rhudy has offered to have me come stay with her for several days. What a blessing to have her in my life. Betty Lee is going to Blacksburg this afternoon so I will ride with her up there.

I hope everyone has a good weekend. I love you all!

Happy New Year EVERYONE!!

I cannot begin to tell you how much I've enjoyed reading all the well wishes and support emails. Thanks to my dear friend Cindy, she came down to Roanoke yesterday and helped me get to all the websites I needed since my Remote Desktop Control won't work at John's right now.

I have to thank first-and-foremost my children (including new soon to be DIL Trisha, of course), for creating this website and keeping it up-to-date. I hope it has been helpful to everyone. While I have always been proud of them, I have never been more proud than all their love, support and care they have given me, especially when I was in the hospital(s). They went above and beyond and I'm sure saw more of their mother/new MIL than they ever expected!

I came home from Lewis Gale on Tuesday night after my 2nd round of chemo was done, and did not have any complications with that. It was good to get more than 2 hours of sleep without vitals/blood being taken, etc. John has been a great nurse but I think at times I've pushed him to his patience limit!

I go back to the oncologist next week, who wants to check me weekly. He said yesterday I was a "delightful patient but VERY complicated!" Who -- me? Anyone who knows me would agree with that! I also have an appointment with Dr. Stoeckle (surgeon), so follow up on getting the wound vacuum removed soon. Carrying this bag around is getting old -- I don't know that I have a Vera Bradley bag in which it will fit!

Thank you so much, again, for all the posted notes. I love you all!