Days +19 - +23 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

My apologies for the lack of updates for the past few days, but I was quite busy recovering.  I've been enjoying eating more and varied food without stomach upset.  That has been a definite PLUS!  Being able to enjoy sustenance is something we take for granted.  I have been thanking the LORD everyday since Sunday, the 8th of July, for being able to eat without repercussions.

Since consuming 3 squares per day, I have been gaining strength and stamina.  I've went out, on my own, to Kohl's for a brief shopping trip.  Nothing like venturing out to a clothing store to motivate a woman to get well quickly.  I've also been to the pool with the grandchildren several times, not to swim, but to watch them do so.  Getting some sun and fresh air has done wonders for my spirits and  my recovering health.

Tuesday, the 17,  another motivating goal was achieved.  I welcomed my "Kenya" kids home.  Greg left early that morning and drove in the Pilot hauling our oldest son, Kurt's, covered trailer to Chicago.  He arrived shortly after the kids' plane landed and waited a little over an hour while they cleared customs.  Homeland Security lived up to its questionable reputation by making them all wait in a room for about 20 minutes, then asking them why they were out of the U.S. for four years.  Jeff was so tempted to say, "We got a great rate on our hotel room.", but contained himself and answered that they were missionaries.  The response, "Oh.  OK.  You can go."  Welcome to America!

Little Ian's first words to his grandpa were,  "Grandpa, can we go swimming in your pool?"  They all arrived home about 4:30 in the afternoon and were in the pool by 5:00.  On Wednesday they spent about 5 hours in the pool.  As usual, they were in Grandma, and Grandpa's bed by 5:30 each of the two mornings they spent here.  Great to have them home.  Today, Thursday, they travelled to Rockford and moved into the house which will be their home for the coming year.

While they were doing that, Greg and I travelled to Detroit for my appointment with Dr. V.  The meeting went very well.  All good news.  First, he said all my numbers were good.  As far as he is concerned, my cancer is in REMISSION.  PRAISE and GLORY to GOD!!!  He then said he wanted us to pay attention to the following info.  A blind study was conducted in which some test subjects received no maintenance chemo after their Multiple Myeloma was in remission and other test subjects were given a low dose regimen of the chemo drug Revlimid.  Those given the Revlimid experienced a longer live span than did those not taking the Revlimid.  The only risk in taking the maintenance Revlimid was developing some form of cancer involving the head.  However, Dr. V. said the risk was minimal and, as Greg said,   "The longer anyone lives, the greater the risks of dying from something."  I told Dr. V. that I would take the Revlimid.  He agreed with my choice as this was his choice and recommendation for me also.  The chance of me experiencing a blood clot again from the Revlimid is minimal for two reasons:  1.  The dosage will be much smaller with the maintenance dose;  plus I would be taking an adult aspirin daily as well which would mitigate the development of clots.  2.  I would not be taking any steroids this time with the Revlimid which would not tend to cause clots.

I will start the maintenance regimen around the time I meet again with him in September.  I will then have another appointment with him in December.  After that I'll see him in June of '13 and then annually every June.  After our discussion was over, Dr. V. gave me a hug and wished me well.  He also said I could now go out in public using common sense precautions against exposure to germs.  Look out world, here I come!!.  Praise the LORD!!!

As I am feeling great and progressing well, I will not be blogging every other day as I have been doing.  I will write another post shortly after the 24th of September when I will have met with Dr. V and start my Revlimid regimen.  Thank you all who have kept up with my blog and I have greatly appreciated your interest and prayers.  Please continue to keep me in your prayers as I continue my recovery and also continue to praise God for all He has done and will continue to do in my life.  He has indeed directed my steps throughout this journey and will continue to do so as I remain In His Grip.

Louise

Next post:  September 24, 2012

Grandma and Seth

Days +17 & +18 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Praise the LORD, I achieved a goal!  Saturday, Greg and I attended a baptism in Lake Michigan.  One of the granddaughters of good friends, Bruce and Mary, told her parents that she wanted to be baptized by her father in Lake Michigan.  We felt honored to be invited to this special event.  Therefore, I wanted to be recovered enough to attend.  Thankfully, God had in His plan that I would be recovered enough to watch the baptism.  The ceremony went well and a young lady publicly announced her love for Christ and symbolically exhibited her life reborn.

Another waypoint was also marked on my journey of recovery.  What waypoint?  I asked Greg to remove from each bathroom an "urp" bucket.  I no longer need those items, thank the LORD.  This was a good psychological point to achieve.  I now am confident that what I eat will agree with me.

I am gradually adding activities to my recovery repertoire.  Yesterday I vacuumed the pool..  Not a hard task, but something I could do which got me outside in the fresh and hot air.  My stamina is not what it used to be, but that will improve with time.  In the meantime, I trust God for his leading and count my blessings each and every day.

Next:  Days +19 & +20 of recovery

Days +15 & +16 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Wednesday and Thursday have been positive days of recovery.  Food is tasting better and is staying down.  I'm slowly expanding my meal choices.  But food remains home cooked.  No restaurant visits yet.  That is a bit farther out in the future.  When I do venture into a restaurant, buffet food is out.   My doctors have said that due to my immune system being compromised for awhile, food which has been standing out, as is the case in buffets, is out.  Too much exposure to the possibility of contamination with germs.  A person with a healthy immune system can handle food which wasn't fully protected by the "sneeze" shield (think about that buffet fans), but I can't.  Also, any beef I consume must be fully cooked, no "pink" allowed.

Our grandkids have been over to swim and while I am not allowed into the pool yet, I have sat by the pool to watch the kids swim.  And since the water has been 88 and above, Greg has been swimming with them.  Sitting outside has done wonders for my attitude and I praise God for his wonderful creation.

Thursday I felt good enough to give two haircuts:  one to Greg and another to our good friend Dan.  Starting to resume familiar activities again is a good point to reach in my recovery.  The one thing about which I must be careful is not to rush the recovery process.  Patience is a virtue during the next days, weeks, and months.

I have a goal to achieve during the next couple of days.  In my next entry, I'll let you know whether I reached that goal.  Until then, I remain "In His Grip".

Next:  Days +17 & +18 of recovery

Days +13 & +14 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Sunday marked my "turn around" day.  I felt quite good;  my appetite was good;  my stomach was active in a positive way.  I even went for a walk with Greg.  However, I may have bitten off more than I could chew concerning the walk.  We strolled, round trip, 6 blocks.  When we arrived home, I immediately hit the couch and took a nap.

Monday, my appetite remained good, but my stomach was debating whether to forgo its past rebellion or persist in resisting food.  The debate continued for the day, but I still was able to eat and everything stayed where it belonged.

Tuesday was a more active day.  We drove to Hage's, a local Christian store.  I did venture inside.  The only other person in there was the clerk.  So my exposure to possible germs was minimal.  Our next stop was Di's Hallmark.  Here, because more people could be there, I remained in the car while Greg went in.  Our last stop was Meijer.  Here, I also stayed in the car because I would be exposed to way too many people in that store.  Leaving there, Greg asked if I felt up to trying one of my favorite drinks from McDonald's, an iced mocha.  I said, "Sure."  Happily, the drink did not cause any gastrointestinal rebellion.  That evening I expanded my cuisine choices by eating pork chops, red skin potatoes (skin removed), and dinner roll.  The meal was delicious and my stomach did not ask me to review my dinner choice.  Yes, I do believe I have reached a "turn around" point in my recovery.  Praise the LORD!

My doctor said to measure my progress weekly, rather than daily.  I can safely say that this current week is much better than last week.  God is good!

Next:  Days +15 & +16 of recovery

Days +11 & +12 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Saturday was another backward step day.  Food didn't look that appetizing and later in the day my stomach decided to remove the small amount of food I did eat during the day.  After that I felt a little better, but rather tired.  I've had to add another pill to my collection.  This one is for a yeast infection that has appeared in my mouth.  Dr. Alguire said not to panic or worry.  This is not uncommon during the recovery period.  Chemo kills fast growing cells, i.e. cancer cells, and cells in the mouth are also fast growing. Chemo is not discriminating when killing cells and a lot of collateral damage occurs such as in the mouth and stomach.  The new pill is an antibiotic aimed at removing the yeast problem.

Now today, Sunday, has been a "2 steps forward" day.  Food has looked better to me and I have eaten some of the foods which seem to agree with my stomach such as bananas, chicken soup, and crackers.  Daring additions have included orange jello and two pieces of Lee's Famous Receipe chicken which was supplied by Tom and Lois from church.  So far, so good.  Time will tell.  Tomorrow, Monday, marks my first, official week at home.  My doctor said to make week-long comparisons as to my progress.  So, tomorrow I'll make my first assessment.

An added goal this week in addition to holding down what I eat is to get up and move around more.  Greg has already offered me the opportunity to ride the lawn tractor to cut the grass rather than using a push mower.  He's so-o-o-o thoughtful.  As I eat more food, hopefully, I'll become more active.  I am praying for progress and trusting in God's leading.

To be continued...Days +13 &  +14 of recovery

Days +9 & +10 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Saw my local oncologist, Dr. Alguire, today.  She said I looked good even though today has been one of those "1 step back" days.  The nausea was a bit more bothersome and diarrhea reared its ugly head again.  I still managed to eat some food.  I mentioned all this to Dr. Alguire.  She said this pattern is not unexpected.   She suggested the best thing to do is check my progress, not daily, since there would be a tendency to take 2 steps forward and 1 step back; but rather, do weekly comparisons.  I would notice weekly improvement despite some days seemingly being a retreat rather than an advance.  I'm going to take this advice and see how everything goes.

Blood tests showed my numbers continue to improve.  I just wish I felt as good as I appear on paper.

People continue to supply meals for us.  Today Arnie and Linda brought chicken noodle soup which has been agreeing with my stomach.  Scott and Lisa and the grandkids came over to swim.  Pizza was ordered, but I have learned my lesson and I abstained.  However, the bread sticks really looked good and I was tempted to try a small piece with just a hint of sauce.  My conscience, Greg, reminded me that I would be paying for such an indiscretion for the next several days.  I took his advice, too.

Pastor Andy and his wife, Donna, came for a short visit this afternoon.  We chatted a while and before they left we had prayer together.  I have grown to appreciate the power of prayer and the number of people who I know are praying for me.  I realize I am not alone as I continue on my journey of recovery.  Not only am I accompanied by all those praying for me, I am also accompanied by God.  With prayers to encourage and sustain me and God to lead and comfort me, I truly feel blessed.

Next:  Recovery Days +11 & +12  

Days +7 & +8 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Nausea has been a persistent "thorn" for me since I began the recovery process.  Since I am not eating all that much, my strength is really low.  I do sleep quite well at night and rest most of the day.   And I am experimenting with various foods to discover which ones will agree with my stomach.

Well, today, July 4th, may be the day marking a turn around in my battle with nausea.  All the food which I put into my mouth and subsequently found its way into my stomach has stayed in place.  Not that I haven't had any nausea feelings.  After I took my potassium pill and then ate a little, my stomach did attempt a small rebellion, but nothing came of the effort.  I have to work out a time frame between taking my pills and then eating.

The food I am eating is very bland.  Thus far, homemade apple sauce (made in Lisa's home), mashed potatoes (which came in supper sent from our good friend, Joetta), oyster crackers, and chicken & stars soup (yep, kids soup) have stayed in place.  I'll continue with these items and add other food choices as my stomach improves and my strength increases.  The process will be slow.  Slower than I want, but God is in control and I'll have to learn patience.

Our church has assigned various members to provide dinners for us over the next few days.  Joetta provided the meal for last night; Bruce and Mary brought food tonight; and Bob and Kathy are supplying supper for tomorrow night.  We certainly appreciate the kindness, love, and support represented by all these meals.  Greg is especially appreciative as he does not cook and I'm not up to cooking anything yet.  The food comes hot and since Greg does know how to operate a microwave, he'll be in seventh heaven since he loves eating left-overs.

I pray that today is indeed a giant step forward in my recovery process.  I realize that there will be steps forward and some back.  But I look to more of the former and few of the latter.  The main focus for me is that I have faith and trust God as He directs my steps.


Next:  Days +9 & +10 of recovery

Day +6 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

MUSKEGON!!

Next:  Days +7 & +8 of recovery

Days +4 & +5 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

My apologies to all.  Last night Greg and I watched two DVD movies and when I woke up, the time was for me to go to bed which I did.  Hence, no blog posting.  Sorry about that.

For the weekend I decided to start the BRAT diet.  For those uninitiated, this means I began eating bananas, rice, apple sauce, and toast.  This comes as a highly recommended food group when one's stomach is not feeling the best.  After experimentation I am just eating the BAT diet.  Seems the rice, at this time, irritates my tummy.  Greg, however, says the rice is ok.  The problem lies with the small amount of butter I asked him to add to the white rice to produce a little flavor.  Greg insists the butter produced more than a little flavor.  Maybe he's right.  So for now, rice is off the list, but the remaining ingredients appear to be agreeing with my stomach.

My appointment with Dr. V. is at 1:00 this afternoon.  I will know my day's destination - home or Colleen's - after meeting with him.  I have plans where I want to be at day's end, but I do acknowledge that God directs my steps.  He knows best and He is in control.  However, I still hope and pray to be home in Muskegon today.

The drum roll please...


Next entry:  Muskegon or Bust!

Day +3 of recovery

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Good news - bad news...or...maybe I should have skipped that piece of pizza.

Yesterday, Thursday, I awoke and felt the best I have in a long while.  I even felt energetic enough to iron my Chemo Quilt.  Colleen and the girls arrived safely in the late afternoon.  However, their luggage did not.  They had flown Air Canada and the airline didn't really know where all their suitcases were at the moment, but their world-wide lost luggage system would find the missing pieces and restore them posthaste.  (interpretation:  hopefully the luggage is somewhere on the planet and you'll get it before everything inside becomes antiquated.)

Last night Colleen ordered Jets Pizza over the internet for delivery.  That sounded good to me so when it arrived I decided to try a piece.  This morning when I awoke my stomach and bowels were in rebellion.  I have not had the best of days.  When I saw the doctor this afternoon for my scheduled appointment, he explained that the chemo has probably made my stomach temporarily lactose intolerant which means that the pizza was a poor food choice for me.  So I got the bad news.  I have to stay around for the weekend to see if my stomach and bowels will behave.  I'm taking Imodium AD every six hours and Ativan for nausea every six hours for the next two and 1/2 days.  On Monday I am scheduled to meet with Dr. V at 1:00 to see how I am doing.  If well, then I can probably go home.  If not, then maybe reentry into the hospital to find out what is going on.

There is good news, however.  My numbers are really good.  WBC:  6.6 (right in the middle of the normal range);  Hemoglobin:  10.6 (still going up);  and Platelets:  78 (also still going up).  Praise the LORD!!

I'm going to have to remain patient and slowly acclimate my stomach to normal food again.  In the meantime, I'll eat cheerios, bananas, crackers,  anything bland that my tummy will tolerate.  One nurse told me the time frame for my stomach to accept my former dietary choices could be 3 months or more. I must be patient which is so-o-o-o-o not my personality.  God is leading and teaching me throughout this journey.  I must learn to follow and obey.  He has reasons for all He does even if I don't always understand.

I will close on a positive note.  Air Canada found all the luggage and is delivering it tonight.  (In fact, the 3 duffels have arrived as I "speak".)    Indeed, God has everything under control.

Next:  Days +4 & +5 of recovery

Day +1 out of hospital

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

What a joy to sleep late this morning.  No 4:30 a.m. vitals reading and blood draw.  Still woke up a few times at night though.  Am drinking quite a bit of liquid during the day per doctor's orders and what goes in must come out - day and night.   Felt great being able to shower without my IV bag/pump pole tethered to me.  Still am feeling a bit fatigued and did rest/sleep quite a bit during the morning hours.  My appetite still is not what it used to be.  The doctors said that food won't be on the top of my things- to-do list for quite a while yet.  The chemo does quite a number on the taste buds so the flavor of foods could take up to 3 months to return.  Rough way to go on a diet, but the outcome might be worth it.

My sister, Lois, and good friend, Mary, drove over from Grand Haven/North Muskegon for a visit.  We spent most of the afternoon talking and playing cards.  Fun to see them.  After they left I stretched out on the couch and fell asleep for awhile as Greg drove to a Meijer a few miles away to pick up the last of my prescriptions.  Have a few pills to take over the next several days and weeks.  I don't like pills, but I dislike being attached to an IV pole even more, so I will put up with gulping a few pills/day.

Tomorrow Colleen and her two daughters arrive here from Cairo, Egypt.  Will be fun to see them.  The pool is filled and warmed for them so they can go swimming.  The temp is forecast to be in the triple digits tomorrow, so I am sure a dip in the pool will be enjoyable.   I am not supposed to swim in pools for awhile, but, fortunately, the house is air conditioned.

Even though I've slept quite a bit today, I'm getting ready to hit the hay for tonight.  I'll write more tomorrow concerning my stem cell recovery journey.  I praise God and continue to follow in His steps.

Next:  Day +2 of recovery

Day +12

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

And the winner is---Dr. Ayash & colleagues!!  The radiologist had insisted that the 2 sets of X-rays indicated a nodule;  pneumonia.  Dr. Ayash had just as affirmatively insisted that what was showing was a rib.  To break the stalemate, a CAT scan was ordered yesterday.  The results were known today.  Yep, you guessed it...a rib.  I don't know about you, but I'd rather have a rib than pneumonia.  Besides, a rib is much more functional.  (Didn't God do something special with a rib?)

That problem having been solved, the decision was made to DISCHARGE! me today.  I am now resting comfortably at Colleen's sans Picc line.  For the first time since June 14 I'll be able to sleep all night without disruption.  No vitals;  no medications;  no blood draws.  Just glorious, restful, uninterrupted sleep.  Early on in my hospital stay a nurse said,  "You want sleep?  Go home!"  Hospitals are not places of rest.  That being said, I did receive fantastic care from dedicated, loving people who made me feel as comfortable as possible.  The entire staff from house keeping to doctors were as friendly as could be.  When I left, more than one staffer invited us to come back as visitors to say "Hi" and let everyone know how I was doing.  I'm scheduled for a clinic appointment on Friday.  I think we'll stop upstairs to say "Hello".

My numbers for today were great.  WBC:  6.6 (normal range is 3.5 - 10.6);  Hemoglobin:  8.8;  and Platelets:  15.  Friday more blood will be drawn and we'll see how the numbers are then.

God has been so faithful and good throughout my cancer journey.  I have grown closer to Him and He to me.  I know as I continue my recovery and make plans for the future that He will be directing my steps.  I have complete confidence and trust in His guidance.  I give Him all the glory for what He has done in my life thus far.  I am His child and feel completely "In His grip".

Next:  First full day out of the hospital.

Pumping me full of energy to finish my quilt

The completed Chemo Quilt

Day +11

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9


Greg left early this morning for Colleen's because the pool man was scheduled to come open the pool between 9:30 and 10:00.  Good thing he left shortly after 8:00.  The pool guys were there at 9:35.  Greg called and said the pool is open; is being filled; and the heater is on so it will be warm when Colleen arrives later this week.

In the meantime, two visitors arrived unannounced.  Surprise!  Surprise!  My brother, Howie, and his wife, Audrey, drove up from Tennessee to say "Hi!"  Greg knew they were coming but said nothing because they wanted to surprise me.  Had a fun time talking with them for most of the day.  They left mid-afternoon.  Howie has to be to work tomorrow night.  They picked a good day because I am feeling much better.

My numbers help explain why I am feeling good.  My WBC:  2.2 (normal range starts at 3.5);  Hemoglobin:  8.4 (a tick up);  and Platelets:  12.  Woo!  Hoo!  Come on stem cells!!  Praise God for His grand design and wonderful creation!!!

A nurse practitioner came into my room this morning and said I would probably be discharged this afternoon.  So soon?!  Wow!  Relax, this joy and jubilation was short-lived.  Dr. Ayash arrived and said there was a disagreement between she & her colleagues, and the radiologist regarding what my 2 sets of X-rays showed.  The radiologist insists the X-rays indicate the presence of pneumonia.  Dr. Ayash and team don't see these indications reading the same X-rays.  So, how to solve this professional dispute?  I was scheduled for a CAT scan, the results of which will be available tomorrow.  In any event, Dr. Ayash believes I'll be able to go home (to Colleen's) tomorrow.  If pneumonia is present, I'll be released with an antibiotic to take.  I have to return 3 days later anyway and another look can be taken if necessary.  Stay tuned for the exciting conclusion to this medical debate:  Dr. "A" vs. The Radiologist.  Who do you think is right?

Tomorrow:  Exciting Day  +12

Doing today what I love doing

Feeling good working on my "Chemo" quilt

Day +10

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Today we celebrated two events.  Number 1:  my WBC continued going up.  Praise the LORD!  And Greg celebrated his 66th birthday.  We even had a small party with ice cream and cake.  Last week Sunday when good friends, Kathy and Bob visited, they brought with them a pound cake for the purpose of celebrating today.  Then this morning my cousin Barb called and said she and her husband Keith were in Livonia visiting their daughter and son-in-law, Betsy and Guillermo and they wanted to come visit.  We said certainly;   we've love to have them.  Upon arrival we broke out the cake and some ice cream cups which Louise had ordered with a few of her meals.  A fun time was had by all.

My numbers for today:  WBC:  0.5 (still going up!);  Hemoglobin:  8.3 ( still above 8);  and Platelets:  15 (after the infusion of yesterday).  I did feel better today and walked 16 laps (1 mile).  My biking was interrupted by our visitors so I only rode 2 kilometers instead of my planned 10.  Sure felt good to be out and about for awhile.  Only experienced one bout of nausea today.  This should continually improve as my WBC climbs.  I'm ascending out of the low, wet zone of the high wire to use Nik Wallenda and his Niagara Falls tight rope walk as an example.  My strength and health should improve on a daily basis.

A second chest X-ray was ordered today as the first one taken earlier this week suggested something suspicious.  The new X-ray showed a small amount of fluid in each lung, but not enough to have any affect on my heart or lungs.  I have no temperature suggesting no infection and my lungs sound clear when the nurses listen with their stethoscopes.  We'll wait and see what Dr. Ayash has to say when she visits tomorrow.  I'm not worried;  God is in control.

The third weekend is coming.  And Dr. Ayash said this is the weekend when she becomes crabby.  So we are looking forward to my being discharged this week,  the LORD willing.

Next:  Day +11

Day +9

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Same-o-same-o in the nausea department.  But I'm still able to take nourishment (cheerios & frozen Orange juice).  My throat is still a bit sore, nothing that I can't handle.  Dr. Ayash says at this point in time my throat shouldn't get any more sore.  The new development today involves my hair.  Yesterday,  deposits were made in the shower.  And my pillow case was getting furrier and furrier.  So I decided to be proactive and shave off my hair.  The nurse brought clippers with various attachments and, for the first time, I applied the cutting tools to my own head.  Greg assisted, especially in the final stage.  Now I really look like I've had chemo treatments.  The good news:  my hair will grow back.  God even provided for this development in His grand design.  In the meantime, I have a choice of how I want to appear depending upon the event I'm attending.  For around the house, I can choose the "sans" hair look.  For stepping out casually, I can wear a cut cap I have.  And for more formal activities, I have my cranial prosthesis which looks almost like my normal hair.  Fun to have choices!

My numbers for Day +9 are as follows:  WBC:  0.2 (starting to go up!);  Hemoglobin:  8.8 (no infusion needed yet);  and Platelets:  8 (received an infusion today because the number fell below 10).  I slept quite a bit today, but that is mostly a reaction to the low hemoglobin numbers according to my nurse friend, Mary.  Dr. Ayash said that so far everything happening is expected and according to the "text book".  Around Monday, my WBC should start kicking upward and I will begin to feel better as stem cells begin repairing the damage in my stomach alleviating the nausea.  Better times are coming, thank you, God!

Last evening while Greg and I were walking our laps, a Code Blue was called for the room kiddy corner across from the nurses's station from us.  We had to modify our route as there were people crowded into that room in addition to running into and out of it.  The patient had trouble breathing most of the day and the difficulty manifested into an emergency shortly after dinner time.  He was transferred to ICU where he remains today.  We did find out he is doing better today, praise the LORD.  Underlying health problems led to this difficulty and was not the result of his transplant procedure.

Tomorrow:  Day  +10

Being proactive with my hair

Around the house look

The casual look

For those more formal occasions

Day +8

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs  16:9

Early this morning I began a fever of 38.8 C.  This is the equivalent of 101.8 F.  Blood was drawn to be cultures in the lab.  Later in the morning I was given a chest X-ray to check on the possibility of pneumonia.  X-ray results were negative.  Early culture readings proved negative, but they will be allowed to grow an additional 5 days to make sure no bacterial infections are present.   In the meantime, I have been put on antibiotics as a precaution.  My latest temp. reading was 38.1 C. which is 100.5 F.  This development is not unexpected.  The grafting of new cells in my body causes such a fever to develop.

The next couple of days will probably mark the ending of my valley walk to which I referred yesterday.  My nausea persists;  my sore throat remains about the same as to level of discomfort;  I expect the antibiotics to keep the fever under control;  and I expect further developments to be under God's control for "...He is with me;  His rod and staff they comfort me."  Psalm 23:4.

Today's numbers are:  WBC:  0.1 (for a 3rd day);  Hemoglobin:  8.8;  and Platelets:  22.  Within the next couple of days, the WBC should start to go up.  For the Hemoglobin a reading of 8 or lower will trigger an infusion.  A 10 or lower reading for Platelets will also trigger an infusion.  Infusions are not unexpected and are part of the process.  Just depends upon the person.

Today was a day of rest for me.  Dr. Ayash said that I have been doing wonderful as far as exercising is concerned and if I wanted to take a day off from walking and biking I could do so.  I decided to take the doctor's advice.  I look forward to the days ahead without fear because God has made me;  I am one of His, a sheep of his pasture.  I am thankful to Him and bless His name.  He is good;  His mercy is everlasting;  and His truth endures to all generations.  (Psalm 100: 3-5).

Next:  Day  +9

Day +7

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Nausea and I are still not getting along.  This is actually a mind game.  A recent article in USA TODAY documented a medical study which revealed that a particular drug used in the treatment of mental illness had a positive affect on chemo patients in reducing nausea.  The reason for this is that the queasiness resulting from chemo does not originate in the stomach, but in a portion of the brain which sends signals to the stomach instructing it to forcefully expel its contents.  The psychotic drug under investigation was designed to go to that portion of the brain to counteract some other psychological malfunctions and was discovered to also have a calming affect on nausea.  Unfortunately, this is America and, therefore, more years of investigation and trial studies will be necessary before this drug is released to the market at an exorbitant cost to insurance companies.  (The high cost being the result of  years of investigation and trial studies.)  In the meantime, I and my brain battle my stomach with the stomach winning many battles.  But I am determined, with God's help, to win the war!

Numbers for today are as expected according to my attending medical personnel:  WBC:  0.1;  Hemoglobin:  9.2;  and Platelets 52.  Tonight will be day #2 for the Neupogen.  Unfortunately, this shot cannot be given through my Picc line.  However, there are three sights which can be alternated for the injections:  stomach, arm, and thigh.  Last night was my arm.  Tonight I think I will choose my thigh.

A new, expected side effect has reared its head today and that is a sore throat.  The severity of this irritant varies with individuals.  Right now, my throat feels like a mild soreness.  Cool items such as water and ice cream sooth the irritation.

I am at a point in the stem cell process that can best be described as walking through a valley.  If any of you saw last week on ABC TV the stuntman, Nik Wallenda, walking across Niagara Falls on a tightrope, then you saw a manifestation of my journey.  As Mr. Wallenda walked the 1800 feet, he proceeded down the wire as it sagged due to the extreme length of the cable.  At the mid-point of his walk, he was moving along the "wet zone", that relatively, short section of the wire at its lowest point and soaked by the mist of the falls.  Past that he began ascending the cable to his destination and safety.  Well, I'm in that "wet zone", the valley of my journey.  For the next few days, I may experience additional side effects.  However, once through the valley, I will begin to climb up and out to health and restoration.   Just as Nik Wallenda kept his focus on the cable in front of him as well as his destination, I, too, am focusing on my end point of this current journey.  And just as Nik Wallenda did, I am praying every step of the way.  Nik said as he walked he had a peace about him which he attributed to his faith in Jesus.  I, also, am experiencing that peace as I continue my "walk".  Jesus said to his disciples as He left earth:  "Peace I leave with you;  my peace I give to you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:27

Tomorrow:  Day  +8

Day +6

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.  Proverbs 16:9

Nausea remains a problem yet.  Today my stomach rebelled twice, but I still managed to get some food down there just to show it who is boss.  Dr. Ayash says this is an expected side effect and ordered a steroid for me tonight.  She said the majority of people who receive this steroid experience relief from the nausea.  I pray that I'm a part of that majority.

My numbers for today are:  WBC:  0.1 (can't get much lower);  Hemoglobin:  9.2;  and Platelets:  76 (trombones).  Neupogen begins tonight.  This drug will coax the dormant stem cells out of my bone marrow into my bloodstream when they will become the various cells which are low in number.  By Day +10 my WBC should start rebounding and I'll begin to feel better.  God's design of our bodies certainly is amazing and wonderful is it not?

Sleeping alone tonight.  Greg left this afternoon for Colleen's.  He'll be getting gas for the car and doing our laundry so we have enough clothes for another week.  He plans to return early so he can get a good  space in the parking garage.

Hopefully, I'll get a good night's sleep because the steroid I'm receiving has sleeplessness as a side effect.  If I'm not dealing with one side effect, I'm experiencing another.  But I'm not complaining.  God   has a plan for my life; this is part of it; and, most importantly, He is in control.  He's directing my steps and I am glad for that.


Next...Day  +7

Day +5

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.   Proverbs 16:9

Today has been a lazy day.  I awoke after a good night's sleep and immediately felt queasy.  However, this time I requested anti-nausea medicine which kept my stomach tamed.  I did not eat anything big such as pancakes, sausage, or bacon and eggs.  But I was able to keep down Honey Nut Cheerios, some fresh fruit, a frozen lemon ice, half a peanut butter & jelly sandwich, and the rest of my cinnamon crunch bagel.  Not a dietician's delight diet, but at least some sustenance.  Any supplements on which I'm short such as Potassium, Magnesium, and Calcium can be given to me via my Picc line.  I've walked 1/2 of my 16 laps thus far and soon Greg and I will walk the remaining 1/2 mile.

Dr. Ayash visited today and said I looked good and my numbers were good also.  For those keeping track, here are my numbers for today:  WBC:  0.2;  Hemoglobin:  9.4 (holding at this point for a second day which is good news) and Platelets:  107.  My WBC are at probably their lowest point which explains the nausea and fatigue.  Tomorrrow, Wednesday, Day  +6, I start receiving Neupogen injections which will stimulate the now dormant stem cells to come out of the bone marrow, look around and determine to become WBC's, Hemoglobin, and Platelets.  On or about Day +10, my WBC should start to noticeably increase which will result in me starting to feel better.

Thank you all who are praying for us.  Greg and I can feel and see your prayers working on a daily basis.  I know that having specific items for which to pray helps those who are praying, so here is a short list for your prayer checklist:  1) end to nausea  2) no sores in mouth or throat  3) no hair loss  4)  positive response to Neupogen injections with resultant increase of WBC count  5)  discharge from Karmonos sometime next week (before Dr. Ayash gets crabby)  6) continued praise and thanks to God for His guidance, protection, healing, and loving presence throughout my cancer journey.

 I pray and expect this whole experience to bring great glory to God.

Tomorrow...Day  +6

Day +4

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.   Proverbs 16:9


My numbers continue to drop, as they should.  Today's numbers:  WBC:  0.6;  Hemoglobin:  9.4;  and Platelets:  135.  The WBC is in the expected low range.  On Wednesday, the Neupogen will be started to encourage the creation of white blood cells.  After that the WBC should start going up.  This upward trend will be carefully monitored and will determine how soon I am discharged.  The Hemoglobin is behaving well also.  If you remember, I blogged earlier that should the Hemoglobin number drop below 8, then I would receive a blood transfusion.  In addition I mentioned yesterday the numbers of Saturday were incorrect.  As a result of that, I had two blood draws yesterday, one at 6:30 a.m. and another at 1:05 p.m.  Since the a.m. numbers are the ones being recorded, I reported those.  However, the Hemoglobin number was 9.2 at 1:05 p.m., lower than the reported 6:30 a.m. number of 9.8.  Now, my Hemoglobin today was 9.4, an up-tick of .2.  This is good.  If this number holds above 8.0 - no blood transfusion.  The Platelets for today were 135.  As long as this number remains above 10.0, I won't need an infusion of those either.  My uniquely, God-designed body is responding well to the chemo.  Praise God!

My nausea still persists.  Just one incident per day, however.  A new treatment protocol was started today.  Before each meal, I will be given a dosage (1 pill) of Ativan to combat the queasy feeling.  Will let you know how this regimen works.  The medical staff again said not to worry, because this is a normal side-effect to the chemo, especially as my WBC count goes down so low.  They said I shouldn't be surprised if for the next few days I feel a bit yucky.  (Yup, that's an official medical term).

We brought our computers, iPhones, and iPad, plus books and DVD's to help pass the time.  But last night we had some unexpected entertainment.  An abandoned building a block west of us caught fire.  We had a ringside seat as we watched from our window seven Detroit Fire Department units put out the fire.  Nothing huge, but exciting to witness nevertheless.

Next post:   Day +5

Abandoned building catches fire a block west of Karmanos.

Ladder unit responds to the fire.

Detroit fire units successfully squelch the fire.