Wow, so much has happened since the last post.
Pat & George Toshak from Minnesota, visited in November. Old friends, Pat will retire soon, George is retired and they will be moving upstate in the next year or so. George had been a student pastor at our home church, Ephrata First UMC, in the early 70's (1972?). They helped tremendously when my brother passed that year. Great friends and wonderful day together. Mom & Dad got to be here also, and enjoyed a dinner with everyone.
Adele and I have been working on checking into her Medicare plans and researching options for the extended insurance, She starts medicare on Feb 1, 2011, because of the disability SS gave her.
Christmas preparations have been made, the tree is beautiful again - Thanks to Adele and her decorating skills - and the house (interior) is ready for Christmas. Julie, Eric and Ruby are set to fly north tomorrow, with them stopping at his parents house for Christmas. They will get here on the 30th, and although Eric has to be back shortly after, Julie and Ruby are planning to stay through Jan 12th or so. Hallelujah!!!
We got back last Sunday afternoon from our First Ever Cruise. We had 10 days of wonderful relaxation, fun, food and exploring. We left Port Royal in Bayonne, NJ and arrived first in San Juan, PR. The Old City there is beautiful and the shops were fun. Christmas is in full swing there and I have posted a few videos of the lights in a square we were in. Next port was St Thomas for shopping and a cable car ride to a lookout on the mountain. Yes, I bought Adele some jewelry that she has been looking at. Then off to Dominican Republic at Samana. There I stayed in bed with a cold, while Adele had a good time on board, it rained all day (off and on). Next was Labadee, Haiti (a RC owned spit of land) where we disembarked and had time for a barbecue and some sun bathing. The wind and at time drizzle of rain, prevented any length of stay on shore. From there we cruised back to NJ and home.
YouTube.com - search for rstauffer43. Pictures on Picasaweb.google.com search for rstauffer43 again.
Back home and tons of wash to do, Adele got sick with a cold when we got back, ?change in weather?. She is fine now, and getting ready for the holiday, baking and having fun. Our plans include: Tom & Shannon's for Christmas Eve, with a special children's concert at church. Beth & Steve's for Christmas Day, back in Adele's old home for that day. Pete & Cathy's for the day after Christmas, Cathy can use all your prayers, cancer has reared its ugly head again. Julie, Eric and Ruby will be there until the 30th.
Monday - Wednesday will be baking, cooking and other happy tasks. All in preparation for Ruby Barna getting here on the 30th! Oh right, she will probably drag her parents with her, so yes, they will be here then also.
All of my customers were OK while I was away, which made my cruise without any internet or phone - a pleasure. It was scary at times, but I was able to forget that I still worked and have a great time. We will be going back next year for another cruise.
There is a slight chance of a major snow happening this weekend, so today the snow thrower gets pulled out of storage and started again. If possible, I know Adele also would love some lights outside, so that is on the list again.
Remember Christ in Christmas and have a safe and happy weekend.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
Already Nov 1st?
Where are the days flying off to? So much has happened since last post.
The family has added another Mrs Stauffer - welcome to Angela Stauffer, married to Jon, my brother's son, on Oct 16th. They are back from Hawaii and resuming their normal lives.
Mom, Dad, Adele and I were at a dinner for the Hornberger / Gerhard family last week. I found some new cousins - Thanks to Marcia McClure Sugumele - and am developing a desire to know more about the family.
Two days later we celebrated Mom's birthday with a dinner at Luther Acres where they live. Then another two days later - or Saturday - we again celebrated at Hershey Hotel's breakfast buffet, again Mom's birthday - her 87th - worth celebrating twice at least!
Many other things happened the last two weeks and we were able to survive them all! Passports are being worked on - Adele received hers already, mine should be here soon. Side trips for the cruise are being checked and looked into so we will be ready for the many options on board the ship.
Plans for old friends visiting in 2 weeks, and how to make sure we get a good visit in with them. They are traveling from Minnesota to Philadelphia on a trip and will be able to drive here for an afternoon. Haven't seen George and Pat since, when I forget. Suffice it to say before cell phones and digital cameras. I remember visiting Minnesota to see them, and being chased back to land by BIG mosquitoes.
We plan on having the grandchildren here this weekend, for a trip to the Science Museum and possibly other side trips. Maybe still OK to have a trip to New Holland and Ice Cream on the farm?
Tons done - tons more before Christmas and the Barna's visit north.
Thanks for listening - Rick
The family has added another Mrs Stauffer - welcome to Angela Stauffer, married to Jon, my brother's son, on Oct 16th. They are back from Hawaii and resuming their normal lives.
Mom, Dad, Adele and I were at a dinner for the Hornberger / Gerhard family last week. I found some new cousins - Thanks to Marcia McClure Sugumele - and am developing a desire to know more about the family.
Two days later we celebrated Mom's birthday with a dinner at Luther Acres where they live. Then another two days later - or Saturday - we again celebrated at Hershey Hotel's breakfast buffet, again Mom's birthday - her 87th - worth celebrating twice at least!
Many other things happened the last two weeks and we were able to survive them all! Passports are being worked on - Adele received hers already, mine should be here soon. Side trips for the cruise are being checked and looked into so we will be ready for the many options on board the ship.
Plans for old friends visiting in 2 weeks, and how to make sure we get a good visit in with them. They are traveling from Minnesota to Philadelphia on a trip and will be able to drive here for an afternoon. Haven't seen George and Pat since, when I forget. Suffice it to say before cell phones and digital cameras. I remember visiting Minnesota to see them, and being chased back to land by BIG mosquitoes.
We plan on having the grandchildren here this weekend, for a trip to the Science Museum and possibly other side trips. Maybe still OK to have a trip to New Holland and Ice Cream on the farm?
Tons done - tons more before Christmas and the Barna's visit north.
Thanks for listening - Rick
Thursday, October 14, 2010
October 13, 2010 ? A Day to Remember?
OK, I finally agreed and we went to MTS and booked a cruise to the Caribbean. Adele thought our 40th anniversary year would be a great time to jump into cruising and see if we like it. Pam at MTS was able to answer all our questions and got us signed in to a RC Cruise - 9 days from NJ, so there is no flying to Fl to start. I will remember this day as one where we both agreed on something I have been saying no to too long, and changed to a yes!
Our grandchildren are growing way too fast and we are so happy to see them all doing so well. Ruby will visit us at Christmas time, sticking around for a good visit. That should provide us with a wonderful holiday season!
Next January is Adele's 2 year checkup, and we both look forward to knowing for sure that the cancer is still in remission. I know that in my heart, but there are times every week, that worry clouds Adele's mind with fear.
I pray that the fear is removed and replaced with an assurance that the cancer is gone.
Thank you Lord for All You have done for us, We do Love You!
Our grandchildren are growing way too fast and we are so happy to see them all doing so well. Ruby will visit us at Christmas time, sticking around for a good visit. That should provide us with a wonderful holiday season!
Next January is Adele's 2 year checkup, and we both look forward to knowing for sure that the cancer is still in remission. I know that in my heart, but there are times every week, that worry clouds Adele's mind with fear.
I pray that the fear is removed and replaced with an assurance that the cancer is gone.
Thank you Lord for All You have done for us, We do Love You!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Almost the end of September
Since the last post, we finished a 10 day trip to Georgia, a 2 day recovery from the trip and some normal 60 year old stuff.
The trip to Ruby's for her 2nd birthday was absolutely one of the best trips we have had. The 2 weekends there really help and Adele was in great form for the entire trip. Ruby's Dad & Mom really put on a great birthday party for her, in a Yo Gabba Gabba theme. Eric even dressed up for the part, and the HUGE bouncy house had all the kids in it having a blast!
We did more cooking there and I think enjoyed it somewhat more than going out every other day. Adele and I shared duties, so it was easy to do.
The house was 'staged' for sale, and some things moved into a storage unit to help the presentation. These days - our kids watch enough HG-TV to know what to do to sell the house. We visited the house they have a contract on, and loved the area, especially when we found friends from Ephrata live within 1 mile of it. Steve & Kim moved to GA years ago, and we even got a chance to see Kim briefly while we were there.
We took 2 days to come home, 7 hours drive to Harrisonburg, VA and then 4 hours home, with a stop in Harrisburg with our son at the police station. Got a chance to see Tom's Nittiany Lion with his new 'Ki-Jana Carter' autograph. Ki-Jana was in the office last week to sell them products.
At home, we unpacked, then ran to the store for supplies and food for the next day. I got to work Tuesday, but really was tired all day and when I got home at 3 pm, I crashed on the Lazy-Boy.
Rain yesterday, 1.75 inches, and again today. Finally, seems like it has been over a month since the last rain.
Thank You Lord for all You do for us everyday! Love You Lord!
The trip to Ruby's for her 2nd birthday was absolutely one of the best trips we have had. The 2 weekends there really help and Adele was in great form for the entire trip. Ruby's Dad & Mom really put on a great birthday party for her, in a Yo Gabba Gabba theme. Eric even dressed up for the part, and the HUGE bouncy house had all the kids in it having a blast!
We did more cooking there and I think enjoyed it somewhat more than going out every other day. Adele and I shared duties, so it was easy to do.
The house was 'staged' for sale, and some things moved into a storage unit to help the presentation. These days - our kids watch enough HG-TV to know what to do to sell the house. We visited the house they have a contract on, and loved the area, especially when we found friends from Ephrata live within 1 mile of it. Steve & Kim moved to GA years ago, and we even got a chance to see Kim briefly while we were there.
We took 2 days to come home, 7 hours drive to Harrisonburg, VA and then 4 hours home, with a stop in Harrisburg with our son at the police station. Got a chance to see Tom's Nittiany Lion with his new 'Ki-Jana Carter' autograph. Ki-Jana was in the office last week to sell them products.
At home, we unpacked, then ran to the store for supplies and food for the next day. I got to work Tuesday, but really was tired all day and when I got home at 3 pm, I crashed on the Lazy-Boy.
Rain yesterday, 1.75 inches, and again today. Finally, seems like it has been over a month since the last rain.
Thank You Lord for all You do for us everyday! Love You Lord!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Sept 15 in Georgia
We traveled to Julie, Eric and Ruby's house for this week on Saturday. Adele finally agreed to leave early, so we were in the car and traveling at 4:05am. Arrived here after 11 1/4 hours just after 3pm. We did stop for breakfast and lunch and one other time, so it was a great trip. We did get caught in Virginia Tech traffic Sat am around 9.
When we arrived, I switched driving with Adele, and she dropped me off about 1/2 a block away. Since Ruby seems to want to go past her and run to me, this time she was the only one in the car. Again, Ruby went to her and immediately said Pop Pop with her hands up in a "where is he" stance. She is sharp, and finally heard me calling Ruby. She squealed when I got close and lunged from her mom, who was holding her, into my arms. What a wonderful feeling.
I have noticed that she does not like me without glasses. She just stares at me when they are off and then smiles and giggles when I put them on.
Adele and I are cooking more this trip, she is really helping and doing as much as she can with Ruby. We are both exhausted at t`he end of the day, but it is worth every minute that we get to be with Ruby.
Tuesday we visited the house they have a bid on and love the neighborhood. When we were leaving, we came down Walton ?Drive and my memories got going. I stopped when we got to Walton Circle and looked up the Sanner's address. The new house is less than a 1/4 mile from Kim & Steve - what a coincidence! Kim was taking in the trash can, so we got to say Hi and talked about their kids. Wonderful people, miss them in Ephrata.
Tomorrow, the 16th, is Ruby's 2nd birthday, with the party on Sat. People have been texting Julie all week about another friend that would like to see their house and maybe purchase it. Again - a happy and fun filled week. I am very thankful that Adele is well enough to be able to enjoy every day here. I think this is only the second time in three years that she was doing so well, that she could focus on Ruby and not the CANCER.
I say every day - Thank You Lord for all You have done for us today, and all You will do for us tomorrow! I have been adding, "Let us know what we can do for You."
Thanks to all the people that have helped in the past three years, we could not have done this without your support!
When we arrived, I switched driving with Adele, and she dropped me off about 1/2 a block away. Since Ruby seems to want to go past her and run to me, this time she was the only one in the car. Again, Ruby went to her and immediately said Pop Pop with her hands up in a "where is he" stance. She is sharp, and finally heard me calling Ruby. She squealed when I got close and lunged from her mom, who was holding her, into my arms. What a wonderful feeling.
I have noticed that she does not like me without glasses. She just stares at me when they are off and then smiles and giggles when I put them on.
Adele and I are cooking more this trip, she is really helping and doing as much as she can with Ruby. We are both exhausted at t`he end of the day, but it is worth every minute that we get to be with Ruby.
Tuesday we visited the house they have a bid on and love the neighborhood. When we were leaving, we came down Walton ?Drive and my memories got going. I stopped when we got to Walton Circle and looked up the Sanner's address. The new house is less than a 1/4 mile from Kim & Steve - what a coincidence! Kim was taking in the trash can, so we got to say Hi and talked about their kids. Wonderful people, miss them in Ephrata.
Tomorrow, the 16th, is Ruby's 2nd birthday, with the party on Sat. People have been texting Julie all week about another friend that would like to see their house and maybe purchase it. Again - a happy and fun filled week. I am very thankful that Adele is well enough to be able to enjoy every day here. I think this is only the second time in three years that she was doing so well, that she could focus on Ruby and not the CANCER.
I say every day - Thank You Lord for all You have done for us today, and all You will do for us tomorrow! I have been adding, "Let us know what we can do for You."
Thanks to all the people that have helped in the past three years, we could not have done this without your support!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Upcoming Trip to Georgia
This weekend we will be traveling to GA for Ruby's 2nd birthday week. We are both ready to visit again, and I will post pictures while we are there.
Adele has finally settled into a 'normal daily routine'. She is enjoying her retirement by working herself into a very tired state at church. She is helping getting the children's classrooms ready for next week. It has been a long last four weeks of painting walls, chairs, furniture, etc. Then everyone chipped in and washed most of the plastic toys, and other items. New floor cushions to sit on, new kitchen to play with, all bought in the past month. The rooms look very warm and inviting.
I only had to say something to one person about Adele and her working too much - and getting so wiped out. That helped tremendously and she was able to keep going all month.
We also met Jane Lahai from Africa and the June Hartranft School for Girls. She gave our church an annual report, and let us know how much the girls appreciate what we are helping with. They do need a new 'pit' toilet, as the old one is full and needs to be covered up. A new van for transporting girls to school and getting groceries, and money for a brass band are also high on her list of things that would help them. We provide meals on one day a week now, and they provide food for all of the boarders and school girls once a day.
Next post will probably be after Adele's annual tests in January 2011. We look forward to those results and another year free from cancer. Now cancer free for 19 months and counting.
Praise the Lord!
Adele has finally settled into a 'normal daily routine'. She is enjoying her retirement by working herself into a very tired state at church. She is helping getting the children's classrooms ready for next week. It has been a long last four weeks of painting walls, chairs, furniture, etc. Then everyone chipped in and washed most of the plastic toys, and other items. New floor cushions to sit on, new kitchen to play with, all bought in the past month. The rooms look very warm and inviting.
I only had to say something to one person about Adele and her working too much - and getting so wiped out. That helped tremendously and she was able to keep going all month.
We also met Jane Lahai from Africa and the June Hartranft School for Girls. She gave our church an annual report, and let us know how much the girls appreciate what we are helping with. They do need a new 'pit' toilet, as the old one is full and needs to be covered up. A new van for transporting girls to school and getting groceries, and money for a brass band are also high on her list of things that would help them. We provide meals on one day a week now, and they provide food for all of the boarders and school girls once a day.
Next post will probably be after Adele's annual tests in January 2011. We look forward to those results and another year free from cancer. Now cancer free for 19 months and counting.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, July 5, 2010
July 5th and the day after the party!
The last month has been filled with many things to be grateful for. Adele is officially retired from school and we await her first retirement check. Social Security agreed that - yes she is disabled and unable to go back to teaching, so they gave her a check for the past year and she is getting her SS every month like she is 66 not 62.
Then there were all the shopping days, downtown Lancaster with her friends, visits to her sister, retirement dinner, and on and on with things to do. God has given us so much and we are blessed to be able to enjoy it. Although I must say, too much in a week does get her so tired, she gets weary and the mood changes for the worse.
To celebrate July 4th - we had family over for a picnic. We got to meet the newest member of the family, Ang's mom came with Jon and Angela. What a beautiful lady! Tons to eat, tons left over, our fridge is full! Adele and I did all of the work over the past week, so there was not a day that was too busy and full. That allowed us to have a wonderful time and not be physically drained at the end of the day. Watched "Dear John" with Adele to end the day.
Julie was working until 3, so when we called her, she was there and not with Ruby, today she closes, yesterday she opened. Eric called us and we got to Skype with Ruby and Eric. Ruby seems to think she can pick us out of the computer screen and have us hold her. She is such a doll - and we miss her greatly, but with Skype it is easier. She and her parents will be here in August for 2 days.
Adele is clear of cancer and happy to be able to enjoy the summer for once. We are using the Corvette as much as possible, driving to New Hope today for another picnic at Beth and Steve's. Oh right - meeting Allie, Chris' girl friend today also. I promise to be normal for awhile. This could be the last year they have everyone there for the holiday?
The picnic at Steve & Beth's was great fun again! Chris looks great and his face lights up when Allie is around. Spencer is 16 on the 6th and Lauren is a normal college girl. Love their living room with all the laptops around, wifi drops out on the porch - big thick stone walls have that effect sometimes. Fun time and a nice ride back with the top down. Both Adele and I took showers after we got home, it was a HOT ride, 97+ all the way.
Lord, Thank You for everything You have done for us! You have provided so much it is utterly amazing! Thank You, I Praise You Lord. Allow us safe travel today.
See you all next month.
Then there were all the shopping days, downtown Lancaster with her friends, visits to her sister, retirement dinner, and on and on with things to do. God has given us so much and we are blessed to be able to enjoy it. Although I must say, too much in a week does get her so tired, she gets weary and the mood changes for the worse.
To celebrate July 4th - we had family over for a picnic. We got to meet the newest member of the family, Ang's mom came with Jon and Angela. What a beautiful lady! Tons to eat, tons left over, our fridge is full! Adele and I did all of the work over the past week, so there was not a day that was too busy and full. That allowed us to have a wonderful time and not be physically drained at the end of the day. Watched "Dear John" with Adele to end the day.
Julie was working until 3, so when we called her, she was there and not with Ruby, today she closes, yesterday she opened. Eric called us and we got to Skype with Ruby and Eric. Ruby seems to think she can pick us out of the computer screen and have us hold her. She is such a doll - and we miss her greatly, but with Skype it is easier. She and her parents will be here in August for 2 days.
Adele is clear of cancer and happy to be able to enjoy the summer for once. We are using the Corvette as much as possible, driving to New Hope today for another picnic at Beth and Steve's. Oh right - meeting Allie, Chris' girl friend today also. I promise to be normal for awhile. This could be the last year they have everyone there for the holiday?
The picnic at Steve & Beth's was great fun again! Chris looks great and his face lights up when Allie is around. Spencer is 16 on the 6th and Lauren is a normal college girl. Love their living room with all the laptops around, wifi drops out on the porch - big thick stone walls have that effect sometimes. Fun time and a nice ride back with the top down. Both Adele and I took showers after we got home, it was a HOT ride, 97+ all the way.
Lord, Thank You for everything You have done for us! You have provided so much it is utterly amazing! Thank You, I Praise You Lord. Allow us safe travel today.
See you all next month.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
It's June 5th already
We got home Monday May 31st around 11 am, bushed and dragging. Unloaded the car, mowed the lawn and sat on the patio in the heat.
Adele has been so much herself since May 19th and the Oncologist appointment. She is cooking every meal, cleaning up after meals and hardly letting me do anything. I love it - but want to do some of the cooking also.
The past 3 days, I have spent in bed or the lazy boy chair. My throat hurts from all the dripping mucous, I am blowing my nose way too much, and now my eyes have to be cleaned out almost every 1/2 hour with all the mucous gathering in the corners of my eyes. It is becoming hard to see what I am doing, maybe doctor should be seen Monday? I thought this was a cold, but it has progressed way beyond what any other cold has done with me.
Lauren is here tonight for a wedding in Lititz and staying through Monday. I will sleep on the lazy boy and stay away from Adele. Adele has been wonderful and keeping me in tissues and drinks. Ice cream is what soothes the throat, and I need that at night when it hurts the most. Got about 3 hours of sleep for both of the past 2 nights. Hope for more tonight.
I know, I feel yucky - I describe it yucky - loosing my sight need to wash out again.
Thanks - Rick
Pray for Tom on Wed AM, he has an arthroscopic surgery being done on a slap tear. After 16 years he is finally getting it looked at. Adele is going to the hospital to be with Shannon that morning.
Adele has been so much herself since May 19th and the Oncologist appointment. She is cooking every meal, cleaning up after meals and hardly letting me do anything. I love it - but want to do some of the cooking also.
The past 3 days, I have spent in bed or the lazy boy chair. My throat hurts from all the dripping mucous, I am blowing my nose way too much, and now my eyes have to be cleaned out almost every 1/2 hour with all the mucous gathering in the corners of my eyes. It is becoming hard to see what I am doing, maybe doctor should be seen Monday? I thought this was a cold, but it has progressed way beyond what any other cold has done with me.
Lauren is here tonight for a wedding in Lititz and staying through Monday. I will sleep on the lazy boy and stay away from Adele. Adele has been wonderful and keeping me in tissues and drinks. Ice cream is what soothes the throat, and I need that at night when it hurts the most. Got about 3 hours of sleep for both of the past 2 nights. Hope for more tonight.
I know, I feel yucky - I describe it yucky - loosing my sight need to wash out again.
Thanks - Rick
Pray for Tom on Wed AM, he has an arthroscopic surgery being done on a slap tear. After 16 years he is finally getting it looked at. Adele is going to the hospital to be with Shannon that morning.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Saturday the 29th of May
Sadly our visit to GA comes to an end tomorrow. We will leave around noon and travel about 8 hours to a Hampton in VA. Rest of trip will be easy from there, and at a leisurely pace.
We have had such a wonderful time here, Ruby is so big and growing. She loves sitting and reading or playing tea party, even with Uncle Scooter. Eric and I went to Greenville SC yesterday to get Julie's Mini serviced and some problems fixed. That 4 1/2 hours drive and 3 hours at the dealership, were too much for me. I was head achy and so tired the rest of the day, Friday afternoon was spent in bed trying to sleep, which never came to me. Oh well, for my kids, anything is what I will do.
Today is a PARTY with all of Julie and Eric's friends, here around their pool. Chris is brings the meat, sounds like he expects tons to be eaten. Adele is making brownies, and I am helping clean pool and other places as much as I can. Should be fun - I am sure there will be tons of beer here.
Now to help with Ruby and making of the party..
Bye - Rick
We have had such a wonderful time here, Ruby is so big and growing. She loves sitting and reading or playing tea party, even with Uncle Scooter. Eric and I went to Greenville SC yesterday to get Julie's Mini serviced and some problems fixed. That 4 1/2 hours drive and 3 hours at the dealership, were too much for me. I was head achy and so tired the rest of the day, Friday afternoon was spent in bed trying to sleep, which never came to me. Oh well, for my kids, anything is what I will do.
Today is a PARTY with all of Julie and Eric's friends, here around their pool. Chris is brings the meat, sounds like he expects tons to be eaten. Adele is making brownies, and I am helping clean pool and other places as much as I can. Should be fun - I am sure there will be tons of beer here.
Now to help with Ruby and making of the party..
Bye - Rick
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Wed May 26th early morning
Adele and I are having a great time in Georgia! Ruby is growing up to be a doll and she loves to be held by her Pop Pop. Of course I am crazy about her and do anything to gt her to enjoy our visit. She mimics so much now, I laid on the floor, on my back and she came over and laid down next to me, on her back. She dances to music, and "Peanut Butter Jelly Time" that Eric and Julie say to her. She 'reads' books and loves being able to go to her bookshelf and bring book after book to me as we sit and read them on the floor. She sits down for the book, and then when finished, she goes and gets another. Soon she will be taking them back also. She eats almost everything we do, no baby food for her! We had subs the other day and some had banana peppers in them, and I found out she loves banana peppers. You should have seen the look on Julie's face - 'You gave her a pepper?'
Anyway, you all get the picture, we are having a blast. Monday Julie and Ruby took Adele shopping at Target, out to lunch at McDonald's and the playground there. Then they dropped off Ruby for me and went food shopping. Tuesday Julie took the dog for a trim and had a doctor appointment. Seems Julie has some scarring on the lungs - Pray for a resolution there. Then Julie and Adele left me with Ruby and went to Patty's hair salon. They both had cuts - look wonderful - and had a ball there. I'll see more of Patty and Chris Saturday at the party Eric and Julie are hosting. Oh - Ruby was tired and ended up sleeping 2 hours for me, so I got in some CSI oldies and PC time.
Eric is busy every day with work, but pops in to get things in his office or check on Ruby and I. Friday we are driving the Mini to a dealer to have some problems straightened out, still under warranty so the 2 hour drive is worth it. Tonight I make Filet Mignon cooked in butter for Eric and I, Julie and Adele are going out to supper and a movie like they always do when we are here. They both love the together time so much, I would never take that away or complain about it. I just tease and get filet mignon for Eric and I. Ruby is staying with the guys.
Oh almost forgot, last night after a chicken dinner - we had homemade shortcakes and strawberries. Fantastic once more! Adele uses the recipe on the Bisquick box and they are great. Uncle Scott came over - he provided the box of strawberries and joked he needed a double size shortcake. He left filled and I think enjoyed it.
More later - Prayers for safe travel all week.
Monday, May 24, 2010
And we are enjoying it
Got to Ga Sat afternoon around 5 PM - left our house at 6 AM - not bad traffic, especially the first 2 - 4 hours. Julie was at work until midnight, so Eric and Ruby were our greeters. Funny thing is Ruby was so excited to see us, she ran right pasty Adele and stretched her arms out to me. She has not stopped that yet - except for 3 am this morning, she just wanted her Mommy.
We had a small pool party last night, with Mike, Erica and kids, with a stellar performance by Uncle Scottie. He dropped in because we stole his beer - oh,
Uncle Scottie is and has been Julie's best friend the past 5 years or so. Now he lives right in back of Eric and Julie so he is here many times, and Ruby is like Uncle Scottie is here!
Putting chairs together today, new table went up yesterday. New tiki torches, plants and other items went to the pool and deck are also. Big party on Saturday, and much to do before it starts.
Adele is smiling more than I remember for the past 2 1/2 years. She is really enjoying this visit.
More later - Thanks for all the prayers! Love you guys tons.
We had a small pool party last night, with Mike, Erica and kids, with a stellar performance by Uncle Scottie. He dropped in because we stole his beer - oh,
Uncle Scottie is and has been Julie's best friend the past 5 years or so. Now he lives right in back of Eric and Julie so he is here many times, and Ruby is like Uncle Scottie is here!
Putting chairs together today, new table went up yesterday. New tiki torches, plants and other items went to the pool and deck are also. Big party on Saturday, and much to do before it starts.
Adele is smiling more than I remember for the past 2 1/2 years. She is really enjoying this visit.
More later - Thanks for all the prayers! Love you guys tons.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
And the Doctor Said...
Go enjoy your vacation girl!
The Pet scan from last week, was NEGATIVE! That is the 2nd Pet scan that was negative, and the Dr B is saying, maybe January's readings were false / positive and not really cancer! Whooo Hooo, I'll take that news any day and run with it. He said Adele is now 16 months in remission, which is dated from her 2nd birthday, the infusion of stem cells after all the chemo last year - Jan 21, 2009.
She was excited - relieved - talk about a stress reliever, I think I saw that stress leave her in 10 seconds. She smiles again! Thank You Lord.
We have 2 days before leaving for GA and that beautiful family down South - "The Barnas" - Ruby, Julie and Eric Can hardly wait, I want to start early (sometimes I wake at 1 and am ready to drive 12 hours) Adele will be more for a 7 AM start. We shall see.
Pray for Jack - a friend, who will need to have part or all of his lung removed followed by chemo. He will have things done in Hershey, so I feel great about his chances.
Pray for safe travel for us, as we do the 750 miles to GA and back.
Pray for all of the college kids coming back home from school. From Millersville, Illinois, Wisconsin, etc, and pray that they all have a safe and awesome summer. Any of them are welcome to stay a few days in our guest room anytime.
Thank you all for all of the support you have given us. Next doc visit is now 3 months away, and then January 2011.
The Pet scan from last week, was NEGATIVE! That is the 2nd Pet scan that was negative, and the Dr B is saying, maybe January's readings were false / positive and not really cancer! Whooo Hooo, I'll take that news any day and run with it. He said Adele is now 16 months in remission, which is dated from her 2nd birthday, the infusion of stem cells after all the chemo last year - Jan 21, 2009.
She was excited - relieved - talk about a stress reliever, I think I saw that stress leave her in 10 seconds. She smiles again! Thank You Lord.
We have 2 days before leaving for GA and that beautiful family down South - "The Barnas" - Ruby, Julie and Eric Can hardly wait, I want to start early (sometimes I wake at 1 and am ready to drive 12 hours) Adele will be more for a 7 AM start. We shall see.
Pray for Jack - a friend, who will need to have part or all of his lung removed followed by chemo. He will have things done in Hershey, so I feel great about his chances.
Pray for safe travel for us, as we do the 750 miles to GA and back.
Pray for all of the college kids coming back home from school. From Millersville, Illinois, Wisconsin, etc, and pray that they all have a safe and awesome summer. Any of them are welcome to stay a few days in our guest room anytime.
Thank you all for all of the support you have given us. Next doc visit is now 3 months away, and then January 2011.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Tomorrow the wait ends again
Tomorrow is PET Scan results day with Dr Balepur. Adele is very nervous about the results and has been trying to keep busy with anything to keep from thinking about it.
Yesterday she asked if we will still go to GA, if the doctor wants to start some treatment. Today it was a question about something on the same wave length. I will be happy once the results are known, then we can get back with our almost normal lives.
A trip to GA and Ruby, and of course Eric and Julie, is to start early Saturday the 22nd, with us getting there the same day. Back for Memorial Day, although late that day. Julie has managed to finagle a few days off, and Eric works out of the house, so we should see them a lot. He has the pool ready and warmed up for us, and Ruby loves the water. Ninety and wet at the pool with our granddaughter, is there any other way to enjoy the next week?
Pray for good results and no "Hot Spots"
Thanks - Rick
Yesterday she asked if we will still go to GA, if the doctor wants to start some treatment. Today it was a question about something on the same wave length. I will be happy once the results are known, then we can get back with our almost normal lives.
A trip to GA and Ruby, and of course Eric and Julie, is to start early Saturday the 22nd, with us getting there the same day. Back for Memorial Day, although late that day. Julie has managed to finagle a few days off, and Eric works out of the house, so we should see them a lot. He has the pool ready and warmed up for us, and Ruby loves the water. Ninety and wet at the pool with our granddaughter, is there any other way to enjoy the next week?
Pray for good results and no "Hot Spots"
Thanks - Rick
Friday, May 7, 2010
PET Scan in 1 week
The closer we get to Adele's PET scan, the more worried she is. Hopefully she can recover each morning as she has to, and get into doing something to keep her mind off the tests and possible results. Pray for good results again!
We are traveling to GA for a week coming soon. Ruby has been on our hearts, and the desire to see her growing up is always present. We miss her so when we leave, but Eric and Julie are doing so great in Augusta, our hearts are comforted by that. Expect a ton of pictures on picasa and videos on youtube during and after our trip.
Well, I am off to work again - early, to help move PCs and get them connected at MH/MR. Thanks to all that have been following.
Pray for strength and Peace. The possibility of a PET scan showing spots of cancer is always high, and is on Adele's mind constantly. Laughter class last night, seemed to help a bit.
We are traveling to GA for a week coming soon. Ruby has been on our hearts, and the desire to see her growing up is always present. We miss her so when we leave, but Eric and Julie are doing so great in Augusta, our hearts are comforted by that. Expect a ton of pictures on picasa and videos on youtube during and after our trip.
Well, I am off to work again - early, to help move PCs and get them connected at MH/MR. Thanks to all that have been following.
Pray for strength and Peace. The possibility of a PET scan showing spots of cancer is always high, and is on Adele's mind constantly. Laughter class last night, seemed to help a bit.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Update - Weekend through Tuesday
Saturday started with me leaving around 7:35am and joining fellow LCCC members at Lyndon Diner for breakfast before we cleaned up Route 283 of all trash for a 2 mile section. Went well until I fell and twisted my ankle, but I continued and felt better as I walked.
Got home and found Adele up and busy, and discussed Clonazepam again with her. She feels it helps, so she is back on 1/2 pill a day again. It does work wonders now, but if we can get off Welbutrin (that makes her anxious and nervous while getting her doing things a a rapid pace), I think the clonazepam can be dropped again. It did make a much better Saturday.
Sunday, we woke by 6:30 and left for our road trip with LCCC to Harper's Ferry in West Virgina. Nine Corvettes, 18 people, were part of this trip, and everyone was having a great time. Adele felt the love from everyone, and really enjoyed the time away. She is ready for more of these trips, now to work them into our schedule with the GA trips we will have. I even had her agreeing that a Corvette Museum trip would be a fun time!
Monday and Tuesday were work work work for me, while Adele was home working in the house. She really enjoys her new found freedom and has been taking advantage of it, with outings to friends houses, prayer groups and other ways of getting busy while being retired.
Adele has been doing well since Dr Camerino's appt way back on April 8th. The med changes and our inclusion of Clonazepam have done the job. Next appt is early May and possibly more meds can disappear, or be reduced. Until then, I am so happy she is feeling this good for an extended period of time. She actually has a day or two that she does not think of cancer at all! Wonderful!!!
Thank You Lord for everything that You have done for us, and all the You will do for us today!
Got home and found Adele up and busy, and discussed Clonazepam again with her. She feels it helps, so she is back on 1/2 pill a day again. It does work wonders now, but if we can get off Welbutrin (that makes her anxious and nervous while getting her doing things a a rapid pace), I think the clonazepam can be dropped again. It did make a much better Saturday.
Sunday, we woke by 6:30 and left for our road trip with LCCC to Harper's Ferry in West Virgina. Nine Corvettes, 18 people, were part of this trip, and everyone was having a great time. Adele felt the love from everyone, and really enjoyed the time away. She is ready for more of these trips, now to work them into our schedule with the GA trips we will have. I even had her agreeing that a Corvette Museum trip would be a fun time!
Monday and Tuesday were work work work for me, while Adele was home working in the house. She really enjoys her new found freedom and has been taking advantage of it, with outings to friends houses, prayer groups and other ways of getting busy while being retired.
Adele has been doing well since Dr Camerino's appt way back on April 8th. The med changes and our inclusion of Clonazepam have done the job. Next appt is early May and possibly more meds can disappear, or be reduced. Until then, I am so happy she is feeling this good for an extended period of time. She actually has a day or two that she does not think of cancer at all! Wonderful!!!
Thank You Lord for everything that You have done for us, and all the You will do for us today!
Friday, April 16, 2010
What a week we had
Last Thursday after the doctors appointment we went to Yoder's for a late lunch, enjoying their lunch buffet using a gift card she had received from one of the teachers at Blue Ball.
The teachers had given her a ?Sunshine Basket? - I am not sure of the actual words they use, but all the gifts brought tons of sunshine into her day. We have been eating out at various locations for a while with gift cards they sent and enjoying all the DVDs and other items that were included.
Anyway, back to the last week. The change in meds has been positive, Adele has been her her old self (with some minor differences) for the past week! She has been a bit anxious, but we both feel one of her meds makes her feel that way, and hope to drop it also.
Thursday was lunch out, did not need dinner. Then Mom & Dad had a car problem - yes, Toyota problems - and called us while we were finishing lunch. Ended up with no problem actually, just a misunderstanding and age? Friday we met an old friend at Ten Thousand Villages Tea Shop and enjoyed live music and a light supper. Haven't seen Lowell for quite awhile and it was great catching up with him. Thanks Facebook for reconnecting us again. Saturday and Sunday quickly passed and back into my work week.
Adele has been having one good day after another, and it is showing. She went shopping with Bobbie, Blue Ball and Lancaster, she also went to lunch with her Prayer Group friends another day. This Thursday, she came up with a great idea. Off we went, in the Corvette (top up as it was a bit chilly), to North East, MD for a crab cake sandwich at Woody's Crab House and then a stop at Eldreth Pottery's factory and a new piece of their pottery.
One good day after another, now this is what life used to be like, last time we were doing so well was during last summertime. From September on - it has been life on edge here in our household. Finally we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. God is good and with us all the way, and is supporting both of us in all of this journey. I am posting less and less as things get back to the 'new normal' in our house. Maybe an end to this dialogue is coming? Thanks be to God for His help in everything we have been through for the past 2 1/2 years.
Adele's retirement starts on May 17th, as does her Social Security. She turns 62 on the 15th of May, so everything is hinging on that date. Checks should start arriving by June or July and we figure they will be close to what she had been receiving as disability pay form the school district - what a wonder that God has everything planned so well for us! Thanks to everyone who has been following this and giving us so much support. It has made it much easier to let everyone know what is going on, without the ?pain? of repeating it continuously.
The teachers had given her a ?Sunshine Basket? - I am not sure of the actual words they use, but all the gifts brought tons of sunshine into her day. We have been eating out at various locations for a while with gift cards they sent and enjoying all the DVDs and other items that were included.
Anyway, back to the last week. The change in meds has been positive, Adele has been her her old self (with some minor differences) for the past week! She has been a bit anxious, but we both feel one of her meds makes her feel that way, and hope to drop it also.
Thursday was lunch out, did not need dinner. Then Mom & Dad had a car problem - yes, Toyota problems - and called us while we were finishing lunch. Ended up with no problem actually, just a misunderstanding and age? Friday we met an old friend at Ten Thousand Villages Tea Shop and enjoyed live music and a light supper. Haven't seen Lowell for quite awhile and it was great catching up with him. Thanks Facebook for reconnecting us again. Saturday and Sunday quickly passed and back into my work week.
Adele has been having one good day after another, and it is showing. She went shopping with Bobbie, Blue Ball and Lancaster, she also went to lunch with her Prayer Group friends another day. This Thursday, she came up with a great idea. Off we went, in the Corvette (top up as it was a bit chilly), to North East, MD for a crab cake sandwich at Woody's Crab House and then a stop at Eldreth Pottery's factory and a new piece of their pottery.
One good day after another, now this is what life used to be like, last time we were doing so well was during last summertime. From September on - it has been life on edge here in our household. Finally we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. God is good and with us all the way, and is supporting both of us in all of this journey. I am posting less and less as things get back to the 'new normal' in our house. Maybe an end to this dialogue is coming? Thanks be to God for His help in everything we have been through for the past 2 1/2 years.
Adele's retirement starts on May 17th, as does her Social Security. She turns 62 on the 15th of May, so everything is hinging on that date. Checks should start arriving by June or July and we figure they will be close to what she had been receiving as disability pay form the school district - what a wonder that God has everything planned so well for us! Thanks to everyone who has been following this and giving us so much support. It has made it much easier to let everyone know what is going on, without the ?pain? of repeating it continuously.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Thursday
Today has been wonderful. After a bad day yesterday, Adele was finally able to sleep all night (11 hours) and that helped her greatly.
We had a doctor's appt this morning and he is helping in getting her down off so many drugs, it is a slow process, measured in months, not weeks. He gave her a month of Seroquel XR 50mg and will see her in one month. Then he will decide on the next step.
She has agreed that she needs support groups dealing with cancer. She needs to communicate with others that have gone through what she has, and not just people who cannot imagine what she has been through. The "Laughter Club" in Lancaster is our first attempt at that type of interaction. Healing and good feelings through laughter, at the Lancaster Cancer Center, looks like a group she would like to be involved with.
One other goal we are looking forward to are interaction with the Corvette Club this summer. First trip is to Harpers Ferry in West VA. Sounds like a great way to have fun with a good group of friends.
Pray for more good days like today! Thanks - Rick
We had a doctor's appt this morning and he is helping in getting her down off so many drugs, it is a slow process, measured in months, not weeks. He gave her a month of Seroquel XR 50mg and will see her in one month. Then he will decide on the next step.
She has agreed that she needs support groups dealing with cancer. She needs to communicate with others that have gone through what she has, and not just people who cannot imagine what she has been through. The "Laughter Club" in Lancaster is our first attempt at that type of interaction. Healing and good feelings through laughter, at the Lancaster Cancer Center, looks like a group she would like to be involved with.
One other goal we are looking forward to are interaction with the Corvette Club this summer. First trip is to Harpers Ferry in West VA. Sounds like a great way to have fun with a good group of friends.
Pray for more good days like today! Thanks - Rick
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Last week
There still are many ups and downs that Adele goes through daily. I never know who I am waking up next to, so most mornings, I get up early and out of bed to distance myself from her moods. She goes from enjoying a day out with family and great dinners (OK, some dinners were not so great) and then sleeping until 4pm other days. We are trying to get away from so many pills, and I keep believing that is happening. Then later I find she has taken too many again. Once we get to a steady use of pills, and not changing what she uses every day, we should see some sign of if this is the right thing to do. We did drop 1 mood stabilizing drug that basically makes her a zombie after she takes it - within 3 hours from taking it she MUST go to bed and sleep. The doctor wanted her to take it in the am also, and I rebelled - calling him way to many bad names. I do not want a zombie wife who sleeps all night and day - just ignoring all her wonderful news.
She seems better - we started the new regimen on Thursday last week, and she slipped only once. I now have those pills, and she seems better. Bad night of sleep Sunday so Monday was mostly stay in bed for her. Tuesday was up and out by 8am and today she is up and getting ready by 7:30 am (our target time for her to wake) - I am usually up at 5:30 - 6 am.
Pray for good days to turn into wonderful days! With retirement now in sight, she has plenty of time on her hands, and then with all the good doctor reports - WOW - she should really being enjoying them. With my job, we can leave at a moment's notice for lunch at Northeast, Md and a crab sandwich, with a stop at the pottery place on the way back, almost any day. Or a trip to GA to see Ruby (and Eric & Julie) almost anytime. Pray for her to enjoy her life and live it to the fullest!
She seems better - we started the new regimen on Thursday last week, and she slipped only once. I now have those pills, and she seems better. Bad night of sleep Sunday so Monday was mostly stay in bed for her. Tuesday was up and out by 8am and today she is up and getting ready by 7:30 am (our target time for her to wake) - I am usually up at 5:30 - 6 am.
Pray for good days to turn into wonderful days! With retirement now in sight, she has plenty of time on her hands, and then with all the good doctor reports - WOW - she should really being enjoying them. With my job, we can leave at a moment's notice for lunch at Northeast, Md and a crab sandwich, with a stop at the pottery place on the way back, almost any day. Or a trip to GA to see Ruby (and Eric & Julie) almost anytime. Pray for her to enjoy her life and live it to the fullest!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Thursday - Friday am
We had another wonderful day with Ruby Thursday, this time just Adele and I. We were both exhausted, from various problems (minor ones, just problems) Adele and I took turns all day, with Adele also doing wash as she could. I, having not slept from Thursday morning at 1am through the day, was not much help, but did my best. I finally went to bed at 7:30 and woke this morning at 7 - what a great sleep!
This morning Friday, we are doing much better with Ruby, as we are both feeling better. Planning our return trip, in two days this time, with a stop in Jonesville, NC. That will have us home Sunday by 2 pm or so, and much more rested than a one day drive would be. We will probably leave Augusta around 4 or so tomorrow.
More later - oh almost forgot - Adele had a good conversation with Dr Meade at John Hopkins. He is saying the same things that Dr Balepur in Lancaster is saying and agrees that a checkup in two months would be the right thing to do, with all the tests showing negative. So sometime in May is her next round of PET or CAT or some scan to see what is happening.
Thanks to all the prayer warriors we have, God Loves You All.
Rick
This morning Friday, we are doing much better with Ruby, as we are both feeling better. Planning our return trip, in two days this time, with a stop in Jonesville, NC. That will have us home Sunday by 2 pm or so, and much more rested than a one day drive would be. We will probably leave Augusta around 4 or so tomorrow.
More later - oh almost forgot - Adele had a good conversation with Dr Meade at John Hopkins. He is saying the same things that Dr Balepur in Lancaster is saying and agrees that a checkup in two months would be the right thing to do, with all the tests showing negative. So sometime in May is her next round of PET or CAT or some scan to see what is happening.
Thanks to all the prayer warriors we have, God Loves You All.
Rick
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Wed March 24th
Last weekend we started it with a trip to Harrisburg and Mason's 6th birthday party! Had a great time with family and Mason was Awesome as Wolverine! After getting home we did some packing for the GA trip.
Sunday we travelled to GA - started about 8:40am and got here around 7:30pm. Best time ever for getting to Julie's, traffic was so good, only small bunches of traffic in any one spot, and always flowing at 70 or better.
Monday Adele and Julie got out with Ruby, while I tried to relax, was too tired from the drive to do much, and I wanted Adele to get her Mother, Daughter, Grand daughter time in. I really don't remember where they went - Red Robin for lunch I know that much.
Tuesday, I got them out again, this time to Target for some warm tops for Adele (it has been cold here) and then a First for Ruby, a Happy Meal at McDonalds! Why are we so excited to introduce our grandchild to "unhealthy fast food" - beats me, but she did enjoy it.
Eric stopped in for lunch Monday, and Tuesday to get some paperwork done. He is busy at the local golf course, sorry I am not able to mention which one, but they are getting ready for a big tournament in two weeks.
Sunday we travelled to GA - started about 8:40am and got here around 7:30pm. Best time ever for getting to Julie's, traffic was so good, only small bunches of traffic in any one spot, and always flowing at 70 or better.
Monday Adele and Julie got out with Ruby, while I tried to relax, was too tired from the drive to do much, and I wanted Adele to get her Mother, Daughter, Grand daughter time in. I really don't remember where they went - Red Robin for lunch I know that much.
Tuesday, I got them out again, this time to Target for some warm tops for Adele (it has been cold here) and then a First for Ruby, a Happy Meal at McDonalds! Why are we so excited to introduce our grandchild to "unhealthy fast food" - beats me, but she did enjoy it.
Eric stopped in for lunch Monday, and Tuesday to get some paperwork done. He is busy at the local golf course, sorry I am not able to mention which one, but they are getting ready for a big tournament in two weeks.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Friday's Oncologist Appointment
We had our appointment with Dr Balepur this AM, right after 11. He looked at all the tests, CAT scan results, biopsy reports, checked out her body with his magic node feeling hands.
His words, the lymph node biopsy is Negative, the bone marrow biopsy is Negative, the CAT scan shows nothing remarkable, the physical show us nothing. Everything is Wonderful and we are now on a two month schedule for the next checkup. We will email Dr Meade in Baltimore, the tissue biopsy results so he has them in the records there.
NO BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT is needed, in Dr Balepur's eyes, as there is nothing happening, other than the nodes shrinking. We will leave for Augusta, GA, slightly before Tiger Woods, this Sunday and stay for 8 - 10 days with Eric, Julie and Ruby! I just want to drive there in one day and be there for Sunday evening.
Saturday afternoon is Mason's birthday celebration in Harrisburg, so we will be well visited with Mason and Kaelyn before going to GA.
Wonderful news for Adele and I, although I have been promoting this news for quite awhile. God heard all those prayers and gave her a respite from it, pray that it stays in remission and does not flare up again. Thank you all for the prayers and help in the past three months.
Free I say - We are Free again! Corvette Summer Cruising is almost here.
His words, the lymph node biopsy is Negative, the bone marrow biopsy is Negative, the CAT scan shows nothing remarkable, the physical show us nothing. Everything is Wonderful and we are now on a two month schedule for the next checkup. We will email Dr Meade in Baltimore, the tissue biopsy results so he has them in the records there.
NO BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT is needed, in Dr Balepur's eyes, as there is nothing happening, other than the nodes shrinking. We will leave for Augusta, GA, slightly before Tiger Woods, this Sunday and stay for 8 - 10 days with Eric, Julie and Ruby! I just want to drive there in one day and be there for Sunday evening.
Saturday afternoon is Mason's birthday celebration in Harrisburg, so we will be well visited with Mason and Kaelyn before going to GA.
Wonderful news for Adele and I, although I have been promoting this news for quite awhile. God heard all those prayers and gave her a respite from it, pray that it stays in remission and does not flare up again. Thank you all for the prayers and help in the past three months.
Free I say - We are Free again! Corvette Summer Cruising is almost here.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Mon - Wed this week
Nothing really to say (ouch) but we will be seeing (ouch) the doctor Friday before (ouch) noon. That is probably the day we find (ouch) what is going to happen(ouch) with Adele. I need to stop using that right middle finger (ouch) to type, tore the nail off down to way past where you trim it.
Adele is shopping in Lancaster and is feeling better than she has for quite awhile. Mason's birthday is tomorrow, party on Saturday. Sunday - if we get the good news Friday - is a trip to Georgia and our other grandchild, Ruby Rose in Augusta. Oh, I guess we will also see Eric and Julie there, not just Ruby. Can hardly wait for Friday, as everything is pointing to a remission or decrease in size of the cancer. Maybe, just maybe, they will just do a CAT scan every three months or so.
Yesterday our family doctor said the CAT scan of her neck results looked good and just small tumors, nothing to worry about. Will hear more tomorrow.
It is hard to keep from being too excited, but we are and look forward to less stress in the future, maybe no stem cell transplant, as it might not be needed.
Thanks for all the prayers - Rick
Adele is shopping in Lancaster and is feeling better than she has for quite awhile. Mason's birthday is tomorrow, party on Saturday. Sunday - if we get the good news Friday - is a trip to Georgia and our other grandchild, Ruby Rose in Augusta. Oh, I guess we will also see Eric and Julie there, not just Ruby. Can hardly wait for Friday, as everything is pointing to a remission or decrease in size of the cancer. Maybe, just maybe, they will just do a CAT scan every three months or so.
Yesterday our family doctor said the CAT scan of her neck results looked good and just small tumors, nothing to worry about. Will hear more tomorrow.
It is hard to keep from being too excited, but we are and look forward to less stress in the future, maybe no stem cell transplant, as it might not be needed.
Thanks for all the prayers - Rick
Monday, March 15, 2010
The weekend
Saturday, after a rocky start, we went to "Alice in Wonderland" and enjoyed the movie. Julie, Eric and Ruby were ready to Skype after we got home, so we had a nice talk with them.
This week is just waiting on the doctor's appointment Friday and seeing what his opinion is - now that the surgical biopsy is done.
If he says "Wait and See" - we leave for GA as soon as Mason's birthday party is done. I would leave from Harrisburg on Saturday, but I believe Adele will want to wait until Sunday. She can really use the grand children on Saturday and then in GA the next week.
Friday is the telling appointment. Pray for the "Wait and See" opinion, it would mean her cancer is less aggressive than they thought. Praise God for that!
This week is just waiting on the doctor's appointment Friday and seeing what his opinion is - now that the surgical biopsy is done.
If he says "Wait and See" - we leave for GA as soon as Mason's birthday party is done. I would leave from Harrisburg on Saturday, but I believe Adele will want to wait until Sunday. She can really use the grand children on Saturday and then in GA the next week.
Friday is the telling appointment. Pray for the "Wait and See" opinion, it would mean her cancer is less aggressive than they thought. Praise God for that!
Friday, March 12, 2010
This week
Tuesday we had a surgical consult for a tissue biopsy and yesterday, on Thursday, the surgeon removed some lymph nodes from under her left arm. We were at Lancaster General from 8 until noon and she was still groggy and hurting for the rest of the day.
Best news was that the surgeon did not see any abnormal cells. He took what he could find, and said maybe this is the best news for us. We will find out more next Friday at the oncologist appointment (or before), but we are hopeful with the surgeon's findings. Maybe she has a stage 2 cancer left, and the stage 3 was killed with the chemo last year. Could this be a "Wait and See" type of cancer that is left? Don't know, but I am very hopeful. This all matches what the second PET scan showed - a smaller hot spot after 1 1/2 months, not growth of the tumors.
Rain for the weekend and then a string of bright sunny days next week. The Corvette is washed and ready to rumble out of the garage. I need to get the hardtop off of it, so the convertible top can be used, but hopefully that will go better this Spring, last Fall it refused to come off.
Thanks be to the Lord for His mercy and Love. He has been wonderful to us this year.
Best news was that the surgeon did not see any abnormal cells. He took what he could find, and said maybe this is the best news for us. We will find out more next Friday at the oncologist appointment (or before), but we are hopeful with the surgeon's findings. Maybe she has a stage 2 cancer left, and the stage 3 was killed with the chemo last year. Could this be a "Wait and See" type of cancer that is left? Don't know, but I am very hopeful. This all matches what the second PET scan showed - a smaller hot spot after 1 1/2 months, not growth of the tumors.
Rain for the weekend and then a string of bright sunny days next week. The Corvette is washed and ready to rumble out of the garage. I need to get the hardtop off of it, so the convertible top can be used, but hopefully that will go better this Spring, last Fall it refused to come off.
Thanks be to the Lord for His mercy and Love. He has been wonderful to us this year.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Monday's Tests Done
This morning we left for Lancaster Health Campus at 7:10am. Got there before most of the traffic and sat a few minutes until after 8 when they did Adele's CAT scan. Got out of there and drove to the Lancaster General Hospital for the Bon Marrow Biopsy at 9 am. We made it to MOPU at LGH early, checked in and got Adele ready for the BM biopsy. Yeah - strip to bra and panties, and gown opens in the back.
Dr Balepur came in, just after the lab tech (and an intern with the tech) got there. Dr Balepur got the samples and all went well. Just a bit of bleeding, since her platelet level is low, but that stopped quickly.
Home now and we are both reading, mine is a boring (but quite understandable) technical 1400+ page book on Windows 2008 Server (R2). Such fun learning new items like this - really - I love it.
Tomorrow is a consult for the surgeon and then we can make his appointment to get the tissue biopsy. Everything is coming together for a more thorough and complete understanding of what is going on with Adele.
Pray for Peace while we wait - and clarity of mind in understanding what they tell us when we get all the reports.
Dr Balepur came in, just after the lab tech (and an intern with the tech) got there. Dr Balepur got the samples and all went well. Just a bit of bleeding, since her platelet level is low, but that stopped quickly.
Home now and we are both reading, mine is a boring (but quite understandable) technical 1400+ page book on Windows 2008 Server (R2). Such fun learning new items like this - really - I love it.
Tomorrow is a consult for the surgeon and then we can make his appointment to get the tissue biopsy. Everything is coming together for a more thorough and complete understanding of what is going on with Adele.
Pray for Peace while we wait - and clarity of mind in understanding what they tell us when we get all the reports.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Wednesday through Friday
Wednesday and Thursday were basically easy days for us. Adele has been trying to do some housework and cleaning up the dinner for us. She also helps cook dinner, and we still get in each other's way in the kitchen.
This morning we had to get samples for an HLA typing match, for Adele. The samples were taken at Lancaster Cancer Center lab and then we saw Dr Balepur. The surprises last week were, the lymph glands affected, seem smaller and possibly less active, but Dr Meade still wants a sample of the node to confirm anything. The HLA typing is for an allogeneic bone marrow transplant. Beth and Julie have their samples today, and are Fed Exing them back to John Hopkins. Tom's is either today or Monday, I forget.
Dr Balepur still believes the PET scan shows a smaller involvement of the lymph nodes, and is cautious about what to do. We are leaning on Dr Meade as he sees 1000% more cases than Dr Balepur, so the surgical biopsy will be needed.
We have dates on Monday at 8 and 9 AM for Cat scan and bone marrow biopsy aspiration. Then Tuesday is the surgeon, hopefully followed by a biopsy of the node in her side. Then back to Dr Balepur in 2 weeks.
If we can get a good biopsy of the node, best result would be a benign tumor there. what then - it is tearing us up waiting for the next step.
Thank You Lord for everything You have done for us today and all You will do for us next week.
This morning we had to get samples for an HLA typing match, for Adele. The samples were taken at Lancaster Cancer Center lab and then we saw Dr Balepur. The surprises last week were, the lymph glands affected, seem smaller and possibly less active, but Dr Meade still wants a sample of the node to confirm anything. The HLA typing is for an allogeneic bone marrow transplant. Beth and Julie have their samples today, and are Fed Exing them back to John Hopkins. Tom's is either today or Monday, I forget.
Dr Balepur still believes the PET scan shows a smaller involvement of the lymph nodes, and is cautious about what to do. We are leaning on Dr Meade as he sees 1000% more cases than Dr Balepur, so the surgical biopsy will be needed.
We have dates on Monday at 8 and 9 AM for Cat scan and bone marrow biopsy aspiration. Then Tuesday is the surgeon, hopefully followed by a biopsy of the node in her side. Then back to Dr Balepur in 2 weeks.
If we can get a good biopsy of the node, best result would be a benign tumor there. what then - it is tearing us up waiting for the next step.
Thank You Lord for everything You have done for us today and all You will do for us next week.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Mon - Tues 1st & 2nd of March
Monday was the PET scan, with Yvonne taking Adele into the health campus and I went to pick her up at 1:15 or so. We went to lunch at Oregon Dairy and then came home for the day.
Tuesday started with a doctor's request for a surgical biopsy since the needle biopsy was negative. OK, we have been there many times, but let's not get too concerned yet. After yet another doctor appt we went to Lancaster and book shopping for both of us. I got an 1800 page book on Windows Servers, while Adele got a bible and some lighter reading. After stopping at Panera's for lunch (this is becoming a habit!) Adele remembered that she had ordered yet another book and forgotten to pick it up. Back to B&N for that book and then home.
Now to ask questions of doctors and get things straightened out. First a call to the local oncologist, who gave us some surprising news, and then emails to JH to confirm what they need next. Next texts from our son, as he made his appt for JH and getting the donor tests done. Then some support for Adele, through my loud speaking, that she should follow the doc's advice. You know - husband needs wife to hear what he says - like that ever happens, women always listen - right?
Anyway, the next week or so will be interesting for us. We again want to say thanks for all the prayers, keep them coming, we are using them up for support as they come in every day. Remember Barry Wolfe also in your prayers, he seems that he is getting better, but now is prepping for radiation and chemo. His new esophagus and stomach must be working better.
Tuesday started with a doctor's request for a surgical biopsy since the needle biopsy was negative. OK, we have been there many times, but let's not get too concerned yet. After yet another doctor appt we went to Lancaster and book shopping for both of us. I got an 1800 page book on Windows Servers, while Adele got a bible and some lighter reading. After stopping at Panera's for lunch (this is becoming a habit!) Adele remembered that she had ordered yet another book and forgotten to pick it up. Back to B&N for that book and then home.
Now to ask questions of doctors and get things straightened out. First a call to the local oncologist, who gave us some surprising news, and then emails to JH to confirm what they need next. Next texts from our son, as he made his appt for JH and getting the donor tests done. Then some support for Adele, through my loud speaking, that she should follow the doc's advice. You know - husband needs wife to hear what he says - like that ever happens, women always listen - right?
Anyway, the next week or so will be interesting for us. We again want to say thanks for all the prayers, keep them coming, we are using them up for support as they come in every day. Remember Barry Wolfe also in your prayers, he seems that he is getting better, but now is prepping for radiation and chemo. His new esophagus and stomach must be working better.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
The weekend
Saturday was an OK day for us, kind of. Adele's sister came and visited, then took us to lunch and did some shopping with her. Isaac's was the menu for lunch and then Hallmark and Cocalico Creek Gift Shop were for shopping.
Adele did get a bit upset by some pictures, just missing Ruby and somewhat angry about all that we go through on a daily basis now. We watched Olympics again and another movie.
Sunday after church, we went to Isaac's again with Mom & Dad this time. Right now we are watching a "Chick Flick", uh I am almost watching while she relaxes and watches. Anyway, today is a good day!
Monday is a PET scan for Adele which Yvonne is going to get her to, while I work. Then I will be able to get to the Health Campus and pick her up after the test.
Adele did get a bit upset by some pictures, just missing Ruby and somewhat angry about all that we go through on a daily basis now. We watched Olympics again and another movie.
Sunday after church, we went to Isaac's again with Mom & Dad this time. Right now we are watching a "Chick Flick", uh I am almost watching while she relaxes and watches. Anyway, today is a good day!
Monday is a PET scan for Adele which Yvonne is going to get her to, while I work. Then I will be able to get to the Health Campus and pick her up after the test.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Action - Adventure - Drama
That sums up our morning today. Action and adventure, just getting to Lancaster before 9 am and keeping the crazy drivers away. Only go to see one spin out, right after it happened, he was trying to back up, but I am sure he would fail miserably.
Action at the SS office, while we finished applying for Adele's SS retirement.
Drama at Dr Balepur's, right around the corner from SS, and they called Adele and said come early. Drama as Dr Balepur tried to get someone on the phone from John Hopkins. Drama as Dr Balepur told us the needle biopsy was negative - did they biopsy the wrong lymph node, did it cure itself (if it did God was behind it for sure - yes we are feeling the prayers everyday). Settled finally when he decided to do another PET scan next week, and compare the 1/21 scan with the 3/1 scan.
Joy as I could drive Adele back home and be with her all weekend again. Wonder as we contemplate what will happen next week.
Very emotional day so far and we were back before noon, so plenty of the day left to experience.
Thank You Lord, for everything You have done today and everything You will do tomorrow!
Action at the SS office, while we finished applying for Adele's SS retirement.
Drama at Dr Balepur's, right around the corner from SS, and they called Adele and said come early. Drama as Dr Balepur tried to get someone on the phone from John Hopkins. Drama as Dr Balepur told us the needle biopsy was negative - did they biopsy the wrong lymph node, did it cure itself (if it did God was behind it for sure - yes we are feeling the prayers everyday). Settled finally when he decided to do another PET scan next week, and compare the 1/21 scan with the 3/1 scan.
Joy as I could drive Adele back home and be with her all weekend again. Wonder as we contemplate what will happen next week.
Very emotional day so far and we were back before noon, so plenty of the day left to experience.
Thank You Lord, for everything You have done today and everything You will do tomorrow!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
OK Already - The prayers are working
Wow what another day of way too many things happening. Adele had a haircut today, but bumped into the curb and killed a front tire. She called me and I got it changed and then we took the car to the garage to get it done.
Other things that happened were:
I am so happy for all that God has done for us today and in wonder at what He will do for us tomorrow!
Thank you for all the prayers!
Other things that happened were:
1. Adele contacted the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and got plenty of great help there.
2. Lucy from the insurance company called and told us to disregard (hallelujah) the refusal letter we will get. They have OK'd JH new request for a "Standard of Care" support.
3. The garage called and we went back for the car.
4. JH called, and Holly told us how they plan on getting the 4 donors to get their blood work to JH. Siblings first - then children.
5. Adele pooped out with, oh my such a long day - and I was whooping it up Praising God for His answer to our prayers. She got up and joined in with me.
6. I am warming supper and some of the small group are to be here tonight, they might watch us eat!
7. Tomorrow is a repeat!
I am so happy for all that God has done for us today and in wonder at what He will do for us tomorrow!
Thank you for all the prayers!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Wed Evening
Wow! This day went from one end of emotion to the other. This morning we woke and were again confronted with our indecision about what to do next. Fear of the unknown, and worry about whether Adele will get the treatment she needs, started off our day poorly.
We go to LGH and had her muga scan that she needs before chemo starts. My son Tom had decided to take off work, and was at our house, while we were in the hospital. He text messaged us and asked "Where are you right now". Ha, we were 1/2 hour from finishing the scan and I let him know, then found out he was in our garage at home. We met at Isaac's in Lancaster and had a late lunch with him. It was really good to get another opinion, and just talk about everything with him. He came home with us, and left after 5 or so.
Then at 6:30, Martha arrived bearing many happiness gifts from the teachers at Elanco. Perfect time for them all, and so nice of them to do this for her. W@hile talking and learning about our trials in the past week, she helped quite a bit. She was the one that saw the original research that JH wanted to do, was sponsored by the NCI, which is where our JH doctor asked us to call and get an appointment.
I think we will call NCI and get that appointment and see what happens. Like he said, it is always good to have a plan B ready.
Friends, family, just the ticket for a down day, and get us up again. Tomorrow is Adele's haircut day, that is everything she has to do, nothing else. She will enjoy opening gifts for a few days also.
Thanks to all who responded to my last posts, we are thinking more clearly and hope to get started on treatment soon.
We go to LGH and had her muga scan that she needs before chemo starts. My son Tom had decided to take off work, and was at our house, while we were in the hospital. He text messaged us and asked "Where are you right now". Ha, we were 1/2 hour from finishing the scan and I let him know, then found out he was in our garage at home. We met at Isaac's in Lancaster and had a late lunch with him. It was really good to get another opinion, and just talk about everything with him. He came home with us, and left after 5 or so.
Then at 6:30, Martha arrived bearing many happiness gifts from the teachers at Elanco. Perfect time for them all, and so nice of them to do this for her. W@hile talking and learning about our trials in the past week, she helped quite a bit. She was the one that saw the original research that JH wanted to do, was sponsored by the NCI, which is where our JH doctor asked us to call and get an appointment.
I think we will call NCI and get that appointment and see what happens. Like he said, it is always good to have a plan B ready.
Friends, family, just the ticket for a down day, and get us up again. Tomorrow is Adele's haircut day, that is everything she has to do, nothing else. She will enjoy opening gifts for a few days also.
Thanks to all who responded to my last posts, we are thinking more clearly and hope to get started on treatment soon.
Wednesday at LGH
We are here for Adele's Muga (heart) scan. Long and hard day so far - slept in until 9 am and have been agonizing about what to do next. Hopefully we can get some company in tonight.
Pray for us, please, we are both exhausted and worn down by this experience.
Rick
Pray for us, please, we are both exhausted and worn down by this experience.
Rick
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Help
It's 11 pm and we are crying each other to sleep, if that's possible. With the news today of the insurance company declining to cover her treatment, Adele feels like she has been given a death sentence.
This is our lowest night ever - in over 40 years together.
Help us God
How do we even start getting ready to go to the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, MD? Can they help us?
This is our lowest night ever - in over 40 years together.
Help us God
How do we even start getting ready to go to the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, MD? Can they help us?
Tuesday Night
OK - the doctor from John Hopkins called and is very upset that our insurance looks to be calling all mini-transplants, experimental. And of course, they do not cover experimental transplants. He explained that a full (or high dosage chemo) transplant would not be good for a second time, as rate of death goes up dramatically.
Pray for Adele and I that she gets the mini transplant she needs. Our doctor went so far as to recommend that we look into the "National Cancer Institute" and get an appointment to see if they have any "Clinical Trials" that would be applicable to Adele. He says always keep an option "B", but we know we both want the option A @ Hopkins.
Chemo will start Friday anyway, as it needs to be done now, his words, and we will need to go to Bethesda, Md for the appointment. If there is a trial, it could be free for her, then who needs the insurance. Although I am sure there would be some type of adjustment in the treatment - depending on the trial.
Pray for the Insurance Company to come through!
Pray for Adele and I that she gets the mini transplant she needs. Our doctor went so far as to recommend that we look into the "National Cancer Institute" and get an appointment to see if they have any "Clinical Trials" that would be applicable to Adele. He says always keep an option "B", but we know we both want the option A @ Hopkins.
Chemo will start Friday anyway, as it needs to be done now, his words, and we will need to go to Bethesda, Md for the appointment. If there is a trial, it could be free for her, then who needs the insurance. Although I am sure there would be some type of adjustment in the treatment - depending on the trial.
Pray for the Insurance Company to come through!
Tuesday - What a Day!
Today was to be our movie day. Adele did not feel up to it - and to be honest, I am not excited about the movie choice anyway.
This morning, John Hopkins called to say that the insurance company has decided to refuse the transplant on the basis it is experimental. The part about how they choose the donor is, so they called the entire process experimental. Patrice at JH is working on getting it resubmitted, probably as a standard transplant, not as a research or experimental transplant. Pray for the insurance to allow the transplant!
I have had quite an education on Social Security and all of its quirks.
We also had to get an account setup for Adele to have the PSERS direct rollover $$ go into. With some help from Vanguard, we were able to get that done, and shy of one small form to have them fill out, everything is ready there. We are ready in good time for the March 31st appointment with PSERS.
Chemo will start Friday, and we will start that day with a Social Security appointment.
Pray with us and give Thanks for all that the Lord has done today, and all that He will do tomorrow.
This morning, John Hopkins called to say that the insurance company has decided to refuse the transplant on the basis it is experimental. The part about how they choose the donor is, so they called the entire process experimental. Patrice at JH is working on getting it resubmitted, probably as a standard transplant, not as a research or experimental transplant. Pray for the insurance to allow the transplant!
I have had quite an education on Social Security and all of its quirks.
We also had to get an account setup for Adele to have the PSERS direct rollover $$ go into. With some help from Vanguard, we were able to get that done, and shy of one small form to have them fill out, everything is ready there. We are ready in good time for the March 31st appointment with PSERS.
Chemo will start Friday, and we will start that day with a Social Security appointment.
Pray with us and give Thanks for all that the Lord has done today, and all that He will do tomorrow.
The highs and lows on Monday
Monday was a roller coaster day again. Adele & I decided to get out and do something, to get her out of the house, before she is bound indoors from fear of infection. We love the pictures Julie keeps sending of Ruby, fashionable girl that she is. They help so much when we get them, Adele loves to just coo over each for a minute or two and look at every part of the picture. This is Monday's picture from Facebook!
She made an appointment for Dr Balepur on Friday, after which he will probably send her to LGH and the start of chemo. Dr B also scheduled a MUGA scan at LGH on Wed, cardiology scan. Other things this week include a dental appt on Tues, a haircut on Thursday, Social Security appt on Fri morning right before the doctor's visit. Oh, we are still trying to decide whether to try for the disability or not - as I just found out that it might get her on Medicare sooner than 65 and that would be disastrous for my health plans.
We stopped by the doctor's office and picked up papers, went to Boscov's and PJ shopped, I got some K-Kups and a new knife for veges (all of $2.99 on sale). Then home and lunch, after which Adele went upstairs to sleep a while, and I went to Weis to get groceries. At
Weis, I had a customer call, and decided to go to Lebanon Mon afternoon. Ran to Lebanon and fixed the problem, modem was too old for Win 7, and while I was driving back, I received a call from John Hopkins Hospital.
It seems that, our insurance is balking at covering the stem cell transplant, because of the research portion of it. They are calling it experimental, and do not want to pay for any of it. The nurse at JH that I talked with (part of Dr Meade's team) said she had many ways to convince them, not to worry. I suppose we could always ask for a "normal" sister transplant and be within the insurance companies standards. It will work out, just another way to get us both upset and more depressed. It hit Adele had, and she was quiet for the entire evening.
Tuesday, we plan on getting to the movies in the morning and having lunch at Isaac's in Lititz. That should be a good diversion, and then I can get back and work for the rest of the day.
Lately I cannot sleep well, even with ambien. I keep running through all the scenarios of her retirement plan and what we should do with the different plans they offer. Spreadsheets, checking out the different funds to invest in, etc. Sometimes it is just so much to think about, along with Social Security and whether I will have her with me in 5 years or not. I need to leave it up to the Lord, He will take care of us, He is carrying both of us on His shoulders right now.
Thank You Lord, for what You have done for us today, and what You will do for us tomorrow!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Sunday afternoon and the Doctor emails us
Our oncologist here in Lancaster emailed Adele this afternoon and said he expects the biopsy results this week, and would like to see Adele Friday afternoon. He expects to admit her to Lanc General, on 8 Lime, for the first chemo round this next weekend. He wants to get this moving, hurrah!
Our doctor in John Hopkins also emailed Adele this weekend with a list of meds that they gave her in the hospital. That will help us get working on the disability report for Social Security.
Oh, our SS appt is Friday also. Guess that will be cancelled or fit in before the doctor's appt.
Talked with Julie and Ruby this afternoon, nice to hear both of them. Eric is wiped out after a long last week with Bone Dry and a start for Penn Roofing in the same week. A sole proprietor is born yet again! Good luck to my favorite Son-in-Law! Oh yeah, my only son-in-law, but still favorite!
Adele is happy Dr Balepur wants to get going now, the sooner the better. Waiting has been very hard. Thank You Lord for helping us get this started.
Our doctor in John Hopkins also emailed Adele this weekend with a list of meds that they gave her in the hospital. That will help us get working on the disability report for Social Security.
Oh, our SS appt is Friday also. Guess that will be cancelled or fit in before the doctor's appt.
Talked with Julie and Ruby this afternoon, nice to hear both of them. Eric is wiped out after a long last week with Bone Dry and a start for Penn Roofing in the same week. A sole proprietor is born yet again! Good luck to my favorite Son-in-Law! Oh yeah, my only son-in-law, but still favorite!
Adele is happy Dr Balepur wants to get going now, the sooner the better. Waiting has been very hard. Thank You Lord for helping us get this started.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
A Great Friday
Friday was a doctor appt for me which I almost forgot, and then a delivery to Lebanon area. I got back by 11:30 or so and found Adele already doing household chores and eating. We had lunch, where she forced a 1/2 sandwich and had yogurt. She is a bit on the light side now and says she wants to gain weight now to build up for later, where she might not feel so much like eating, and possibly will need boost or something like that.
We had a quiet afternoon, and she had a shower (had to wait 24 hours because of yesterday's bleeding) around 3, and then we drove to Harrisburg for a G-Kids visit. We went to Mason's Taekwondo and watched him perform all his moves. Video at YouTube - rstauffer43's Channel so you can all see how he did.
We got home a bit late, but Adele wanted to relax with the Olympics, so we watched them until about 11 pm. She is starting on a new med, that is supposed to help her sleep, and it seems to work well. A mood stabilizer, as Dr Camerino put it. One a day, 3 hours before bed, so it is easy to get the right dosage. It is 9 AM Saturday and she is still sleeping. Just checked her and she is still out for the count. Great to be able to get a full night's sleep after so many restless nights that she has had. This could do wonders for her.
We also (again) talked about trying to see more of God's planning in everything that happens. She is getting very anxious every time something happens that she has not thought about, like the bleeding during the biopsy. She went on and on about how disappointed she was in herself (for taking aspirin) etc, etc. Friday we talked about seeing the good points in everything and she seems to be much better about the process on Thursday.
I know God's hand is in everything we are doing and helping guide the doctors and nurses we meet as we journey this path. He has never left us, and will help us get this done. Thanks be to the Lord for His help. I pray constantly "Thank You Lord for what You have done today, and Thank You Lord for what You will do tomorrow!" I am never sure how a day will be, tests made or not made, diagnosis - good or bad, He is helping us in all of this.
Pray for Peace as always, and a smooth week next week. Not much in the doctors visits next week. G-Kids here Friday night and Saturday, with them needing to be home Sat evening for Sunday church. We think the Science Factory would be a good field trip for them.
We had a quiet afternoon, and she had a shower (had to wait 24 hours because of yesterday's bleeding) around 3, and then we drove to Harrisburg for a G-Kids visit. We went to Mason's Taekwondo and watched him perform all his moves. Video at YouTube - rstauffer43's Channel so you can all see how he did.
We got home a bit late, but Adele wanted to relax with the Olympics, so we watched them until about 11 pm. She is starting on a new med, that is supposed to help her sleep, and it seems to work well. A mood stabilizer, as Dr Camerino put it. One a day, 3 hours before bed, so it is easy to get the right dosage. It is 9 AM Saturday and she is still sleeping. Just checked her and she is still out for the count. Great to be able to get a full night's sleep after so many restless nights that she has had. This could do wonders for her.
We also (again) talked about trying to see more of God's planning in everything that happens. She is getting very anxious every time something happens that she has not thought about, like the bleeding during the biopsy. She went on and on about how disappointed she was in herself (for taking aspirin) etc, etc. Friday we talked about seeing the good points in everything and she seems to be much better about the process on Thursday.
I know God's hand is in everything we are doing and helping guide the doctors and nurses we meet as we journey this path. He has never left us, and will help us get this done. Thanks be to the Lord for His help. I pray constantly "Thank You Lord for what You have done today, and Thank You Lord for what You will do tomorrow!" I am never sure how a day will be, tests made or not made, diagnosis - good or bad, He is helping us in all of this.
Pray for Peace as always, and a smooth week next week. Not much in the doctors visits next week. G-Kids here Friday night and Saturday, with them needing to be home Sat evening for Sunday church. We think the Science Factory would be a good field trip for them.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Thursday 2/18/10
Adele slept in this morning, knowing today was biopsy day. We left for the Lanc Gen Hospital around 1:20 and arrived on time for her appointment. They took her back about 1/2 an hour later.
I read and waited for them to finish. Then the nurse came up and got me, and was a bit distracted when I asked how it went. It seems Adele was not to use aspirin, and had 2 on Wednesday, and bled quite a bit. The doctor was not even going to do the biopsy once he found out she had aspirin. He went ahead and stopped after he got some small samples. He did not like working with ultra sound, while she bled from the pin prick of a needle they used. He used the small needle, instead of the normal needle.
Now, if they got enough tissue, we are done with the biopsy. If not, ?surgery? might be the way to do it. The biggest problem, is the nurse practitioner told us the sample would be ready on next Monday. The doctor told her it will take a week. The same nurse practitioner did not say anything about aspirin or other drugs to avoid before the biopsy. Isn't it great when you get good news that things will go fast, and then get pulled down by the real doctor when he corrects the expectations. Adele was not happy after the biopsy!
Of course, because she was a bleeder, she had to go to the MOPU are and was monitored by a nurse for 1 1/2 - 2 hours. We left the house at 1:20 and got back around 6 PM. Long day for her, and many disappointments. I was then hit by her feelings and got depressed myself.
Today will be better! Adele is planning a shopping trip, with me saying, you go girl! Spend, spend, spend and get what you need, stop denying yourself.
Peace until the next step starts - Thanks to the Lord for everything He has done for us!
I read and waited for them to finish. Then the nurse came up and got me, and was a bit distracted when I asked how it went. It seems Adele was not to use aspirin, and had 2 on Wednesday, and bled quite a bit. The doctor was not even going to do the biopsy once he found out she had aspirin. He went ahead and stopped after he got some small samples. He did not like working with ultra sound, while she bled from the pin prick of a needle they used. He used the small needle, instead of the normal needle.
Now, if they got enough tissue, we are done with the biopsy. If not, ?surgery? might be the way to do it. The biggest problem, is the nurse practitioner told us the sample would be ready on next Monday. The doctor told her it will take a week. The same nurse practitioner did not say anything about aspirin or other drugs to avoid before the biopsy. Isn't it great when you get good news that things will go fast, and then get pulled down by the real doctor when he corrects the expectations. Adele was not happy after the biopsy!
Of course, because she was a bleeder, she had to go to the MOPU are and was monitored by a nurse for 1 1/2 - 2 hours. We left the house at 1:20 and got back around 6 PM. Long day for her, and many disappointments. I was then hit by her feelings and got depressed myself.
Today will be better! Adele is planning a shopping trip, with me saying, you go girl! Spend, spend, spend and get what you need, stop denying yourself.
Peace until the next step starts - Thanks to the Lord for everything He has done for us!
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Consult done
We had her radiology consult today and have a needle biopsy scheduled for Thursday PM.
We are both happy to get this done ASAP and get the results now. Adele will call Dr Balepur tomorrow and ask about whether an appt should be made for next week, instead of waiting until March 1st.
A good day - ending it with cheese and crackers - and calling people that provided meals the past two weeks.
Oh, I got a chance this morning to talk with Sue up in Lebanon. She is looking great and is still going to John Hopkins for chemo and radiation. Keep her in your prayers also.
Praise the Lord for good days like this.
We are both happy to get this done ASAP and get the results now. Adele will call Dr Balepur tomorrow and ask about whether an appt should be made for next week, instead of waiting until March 1st.
A good day - ending it with cheese and crackers - and calling people that provided meals the past two weeks.
Oh, I got a chance this morning to talk with Sue up in Lebanon. She is looking great and is still going to John Hopkins for chemo and radiation. Keep her in your prayers also.
Praise the Lord for good days like this.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Monday evening
Today we went to the Oncologist and filled out all kinds of paper work for his new office. We were there from 10:45 until after noontime. Went to lunch at Oregon Dairy and then on to the Health Campus for blood work. After that we stopped with Mom & Dad at Luther Acres. Mom is getting around quite a bit better. The hamstring is healing.
Adele just needed a bit of help today, and did great with everything that was tossed at her. Now we are on to Lancaster General tomorrow and the consult for a needle biopsy later this week or next. Dr Balepur wants to get moving on this and we sure concur. Once the biopsy is done, its on to chemo and getting this cancer in remission, so we can get to start at John Hopkins.
A good day for all. Thank You Lord!
Adele just needed a bit of help today, and did great with everything that was tossed at her. Now we are on to Lancaster General tomorrow and the consult for a needle biopsy later this week or next. Dr Balepur wants to get moving on this and we sure concur. Once the biopsy is done, its on to chemo and getting this cancer in remission, so we can get to start at John Hopkins.
A good day for all. Thank You Lord!
Sunday and into Monday
Sunday was a good day all in all. We spent time watching the Olympics - having used the DVR to record everything. Nice to be able to zoom through commercials and sports that do not interest us, yet see everything.
Adele slept 3 hours in the afternoon - since she had another bad night of sleep Sat night. She has been taking sleeping pills to relax, and I suggested that she only use them for sleep - so when she asked about it around 1:30PM I said something about needing to use them for sleeping again. She took the hint and after taking one - went to bed and had a sound sleep.
Today (Monday) we go to Dr Balepur's new offices and get started on the adventure. He will need to schedule a biopsy for her, and check on what else to get started with. I am sure the chemo will only come once the biopsy is done. A bit of an anxiety problem again, she thinks too far out sometimes, and it scares her (Thank the Lord I can see today clearly and can leave the future up to Him). She needed yet another Clonazepam to calm down - I am sure it is mostly mental, as she can calm down immediately once she takes it, I don't think it works that fast.
I'll try to post more as we know what is happening.
Still need Peace in her life, and the ability to see NOW and not worry so much about the future. I pray for that every day - Thank You Lord!
Adele slept 3 hours in the afternoon - since she had another bad night of sleep Sat night. She has been taking sleeping pills to relax, and I suggested that she only use them for sleep - so when she asked about it around 1:30PM I said something about needing to use them for sleeping again. She took the hint and after taking one - went to bed and had a sound sleep.
Today (Monday) we go to Dr Balepur's new offices and get started on the adventure. He will need to schedule a biopsy for her, and check on what else to get started with. I am sure the chemo will only come once the biopsy is done. A bit of an anxiety problem again, she thinks too far out sometimes, and it scares her (Thank the Lord I can see today clearly and can leave the future up to Him). She needed yet another Clonazepam to calm down - I am sure it is mostly mental, as she can calm down immediately once she takes it, I don't think it works that fast.
I'll try to post more as we know what is happening.
Still need Peace in her life, and the ability to see NOW and not worry so much about the future. I pray for that every day - Thank You Lord!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Wed throught Sat
This week was filled with trying to get things going. SS, PSERS, the PET scan report to JH and much more. Even trying to reach our oncologist was hampered this week, as he was moving into new offices, and the storms last weekend and Tues and Wed kept many home while they dug out.
I think the was about 24 + inches for the first storm, and another 20 - 24" this past Wednesday. It only stopped about 5 PM - what a back breaker. I am never doing that again with this little snow thrower.
Friday was a bad day, with Adele again wanting, but knowing the doctor says she should not have, the anti-anxiety medicine. I told her I had thrown them away, as the doctor Tues said we should. She ended up calling him and getting him to prescribe yet another one.
The pills are as needed, and she took the max in an 8 or 10 hour period.
Of course, that turned out bad, with a major anxiety attack this morning (Saturday) and a 6 hour period of me again holding and comforting her, telling her she is OK. She just took a sleeping pill and is starting to see double, so she is closing one eye to get past that. Of course, I decided early today, the dinner dance we were to attend is not something she needs to be at. Wish I could have someone use my space for us, hate to throw away the $75.
It's 4:30 pm and I think I can finally let her alone for awhile. Now to get a bath and shave finally.
Peace - Pray hard for Peace.
I think the was about 24 + inches for the first storm, and another 20 - 24" this past Wednesday. It only stopped about 5 PM - what a back breaker. I am never doing that again with this little snow thrower.
Friday was a bad day, with Adele again wanting, but knowing the doctor says she should not have, the anti-anxiety medicine. I told her I had thrown them away, as the doctor Tues said we should. She ended up calling him and getting him to prescribe yet another one.
The pills are as needed, and she took the max in an 8 or 10 hour period.
Of course, that turned out bad, with a major anxiety attack this morning (Saturday) and a 6 hour period of me again holding and comforting her, telling her she is OK. She just took a sleeping pill and is starting to see double, so she is closing one eye to get past that. Of course, I decided early today, the dinner dance we were to attend is not something she needs to be at. Wish I could have someone use my space for us, hate to throw away the $75.
It's 4:30 pm and I think I can finally let her alone for awhile. Now to get a bath and shave finally.
Peace - Pray hard for Peace.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Tuesday and another doctor appointment
Saturday was so, so with me blowing the 18" away, while Adele tried to stay busy inside.
Sunday we went to church, sat in the balcony (to stay away from all the "Oh Adele, How are you doing?" people) and came home to enjoy the day. We did make the decision to stay home for the Super Bowl, and since we both were drained from the last week, a good decision.
Monday was a doctor appt for her, and I left her drive there. Gave her a chance to be normal for awhile, card shopping and all after the appt. Jim dropped off a meal, which we will use Tuesday night, as the steaks are already defrosted and ready for tonight.
Tuesday - and yet another doctor to see this morning. Adele is figuring out the disability form for Social Security. They want all the tests, diagnoses, doctors treating her, dates last worked, etc. That will take an hour or so to find and document. From what I see, Social Security's disability definition, fits her situation well. She should have no problem getting that designation. That will put her as retiring at 66 instead of 62 for the SS office and check. About 50% more in monthly checks.
We are still waiting on the Oncologist to get to us about when we will start the process here in Lancaster. The biopsy will be first and then chemo for 3 rounds. Then we can get to John Hopkins, renting a place to stay there, and further testing and treatments.
As before, the waiting to get going is one of the worst parts of this. We do have plenty of things to do, that can fill those gaps. It is just not a good time, waiting for everything to start.
Pray again for Peace. God takes care of the rest - we see Him working in all of this. No surprise there, just Joy when we see His input to Adele's problems.
Thanks - Rick
Sunday we went to church, sat in the balcony (to stay away from all the "Oh Adele, How are you doing?" people) and came home to enjoy the day. We did make the decision to stay home for the Super Bowl, and since we both were drained from the last week, a good decision.
Monday was a doctor appt for her, and I left her drive there. Gave her a chance to be normal for awhile, card shopping and all after the appt. Jim dropped off a meal, which we will use Tuesday night, as the steaks are already defrosted and ready for tonight.
Tuesday - and yet another doctor to see this morning. Adele is figuring out the disability form for Social Security. They want all the tests, diagnoses, doctors treating her, dates last worked, etc. That will take an hour or so to find and document. From what I see, Social Security's disability definition, fits her situation well. She should have no problem getting that designation. That will put her as retiring at 66 instead of 62 for the SS office and check. About 50% more in monthly checks.
We are still waiting on the Oncologist to get to us about when we will start the process here in Lancaster. The biopsy will be first and then chemo for 3 rounds. Then we can get to John Hopkins, renting a place to stay there, and further testing and treatments.
As before, the waiting to get going is one of the worst parts of this. We do have plenty of things to do, that can fill those gaps. It is just not a good time, waiting for everything to start.
Pray again for Peace. God takes care of the rest - we see Him working in all of this. No surprise there, just Joy when we see His input to Adele's problems.
Thanks - Rick
Friday, February 5, 2010
Friday night waiting for the Big Snow
OK, I hear a snow mobile out on the street already, guess there is more there than I think.
Anyway, today has been a good, but exhausting day. I did a bit of work for Molly and Larry - Outlook kills the file! But Rick saves the day. Stopped in at PA Breast Cancer Coalition to answer some "rick questions" - glad to be of service there. Then after the bank and food shopping, back to home with Adele.
She helped me with the food shopping today, and then we came back for lunch and had a great talk. Seems she has decided to fight, and I was waiting for her to let me know. Now I do know and am ready for the long fight.
We talked about her needing to contact PSERS and probably look into Social Security, since she is 62 in May. The web site did not work for SS and she called them, found out she might (just might, say maybe 50/50) have a shot a a disability SS payment. She plans on checking into that and has an appointment with the SS office in Lancaster later this month.
At that point we both needed to lay down and just relax for awhile. Watched Amelia after a great steak burger supper (Thanks Eric and Julie) and she is reading while I watch AFV. Wonderful day, great snow storm coming tonight, and plenty of food and supplies for the weekend.
Meds are working wonderfully since the change a week and a half ago.
I will probably post again Monday - Thanks Rick
Anyway, today has been a good, but exhausting day. I did a bit of work for Molly and Larry - Outlook kills the file! But Rick saves the day. Stopped in at PA Breast Cancer Coalition to answer some "rick questions" - glad to be of service there. Then after the bank and food shopping, back to home with Adele.
She helped me with the food shopping today, and then we came back for lunch and had a great talk. Seems she has decided to fight, and I was waiting for her to let me know. Now I do know and am ready for the long fight.
We talked about her needing to contact PSERS and probably look into Social Security, since she is 62 in May. The web site did not work for SS and she called them, found out she might (just might, say maybe 50/50) have a shot a a disability SS payment. She plans on checking into that and has an appointment with the SS office in Lancaster later this month.
At that point we both needed to lay down and just relax for awhile. Watched Amelia after a great steak burger supper (Thanks Eric and Julie) and she is reading while I watch AFV. Wonderful day, great snow storm coming tonight, and plenty of food and supplies for the weekend.
Meds are working wonderfully since the change a week and a half ago.
I will probably post again Monday - Thanks Rick
Thursday, February 4, 2010
John Hopkins Visit with Dr Meade
Today, Thursday, Jan 4th, 2010, we met with our oncologist Dr Meade at John Hopkins Research Hospital. He recommended a "Mini" bone Marrow Transplant, using either her sister, or our children's marrow. Other options do not really exist for us at this time.
Without going into too much detail, we have it all, no need or want to rehash it. I will try to explain what will happen, should Adele decide to go ahead with his recommendation.
Duration, from start to end, will be 5 - 6 months until she is home and recovering here.
That time period includes:
This will bring us home in August or later this summer, so we will need much support and prayers during this time. One thought is that I will need to keep working, and as they will have Adele as an outpatient, we will need "Adele Sitters" for 3 days a week. Sitters are in charge of getting her to IPOP, cooking, bed making, and laughter making. If you think you could help during say May through August any time, I would be glad to have the help. We do not know what strength she will have, maybe the need to push a wheelchair will be part of this?
Of course, more later.
Tonight is cuddling, movie and junk food.
Thanks - Rick
Without going into too much detail, we have it all, no need or want to rehash it. I will try to explain what will happen, should Adele decide to go ahead with his recommendation.
Duration, from start to end, will be 5 - 6 months until she is home and recovering here.
That time period includes:
- A biopsy of the cancer is needed, here in Lancaster through a surgeon, setup by Dr Balepur's office.
Next, there will be 3 rounds of chemo, three weeks apart, for 9 weeks time span.
During that chemo, blood tests will have to be done by potential donors, listed above. John Hopkins will Fed Ex them each the necessary items, they will need to get a local lab to do the blood draws, and the results and/or blood will need to be returned to John Hopkins ASAP.
There will then be testing done at John Hopkins on Adele.
The next step will be more chemo at John Hopkins, to prepare her for the stem cell transplant.
The transplant is next, done within two or so hours of the bone marrow extraction from her donor (at John Hopkins).
After the transplant, she will have 4 treatments of Rituxin to attack the cancer using the donor's stem cells.
Then John Hopkins will have Adele come to the Outpatient clinic (IPOP) probably every day, for 30 to 60 days, before allowing her to come home.
This will bring us home in August or later this summer, so we will need much support and prayers during this time. One thought is that I will need to keep working, and as they will have Adele as an outpatient, we will need "Adele Sitters" for 3 days a week. Sitters are in charge of getting her to IPOP, cooking, bed making, and laughter making. If you think you could help during say May through August any time, I would be glad to have the help. We do not know what strength she will have, maybe the need to push a wheelchair will be part of this?
Of course, more later.
Tonight is cuddling, movie and junk food.
Thanks - Rick
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
It's Wednesday already!
When we are having good days, one after another, time flies. Adele is finally back, although she does leave once in awhile - like Tuesday afternoon, but she comes back much quicker. It is wonderful to be able to talk with her again, and know she is hearing what I am saying without fear clouding her thoughts.
We had friends over last night for coffee and cookies - and of course show off our Ruby movies on youtube. Oh sorry - http://www.youtube.com/jooliepoison or http://www.youtube.com/rstauffer43 ..
Adele had a great time and really picked up out of her mood just getting ready for company. We aren't ready for that every other day, but once a week, it gets her thinking of other things. Of course, it helps to have this blog, and then no one has to talk about health problems while they are here.
Today should be good, although some thoughts of tomorrow at John Hopkins are intruding into my head, and I am sure she will think about it all day. Tomorrow, with Dr Meade, we should get almost all of the questions answered, and progress in the fight can begin again.
If we have anything to post while at John Hopkins, it will be posted. Thanks for all the help in prayer and everything else. Pray for Jean also this week - serotonin levels?
Love ya all - Rick
We had friends over last night for coffee and cookies - and of course show off our Ruby movies on youtube. Oh sorry - http://www.youtube.com/jooliepoison or http://www.youtube.com/rstauffer43 ..
Adele had a great time and really picked up out of her mood just getting ready for company. We aren't ready for that every other day, but once a week, it gets her thinking of other things. Of course, it helps to have this blog, and then no one has to talk about health problems while they are here.
Today should be good, although some thoughts of tomorrow at John Hopkins are intruding into my head, and I am sure she will think about it all day. Tomorrow, with Dr Meade, we should get almost all of the questions answered, and progress in the fight can begin again.
If we have anything to post while at John Hopkins, it will be posted. Thanks for all the help in prayer and everything else. Pray for Jean also this week - serotonin levels?
Love ya all - Rick
Monday, February 1, 2010
The weekend
Wow what fun this weekend. Adele and I both got up late each day this weekend. What a great way to start a busy day!
Saturday morning was taken up with getting ready for Jon & Angela's engagement party at Shady Maple. We left our house at 10:35 and got to Lititz, to pick up Mom & Dad, to find a fire engine in front of the building. With the firemen there, the elevators were locked down, and Mom had to wait until they were operational, since she was in a wheelchair. We still arrived in Blue Ball early and got there as everyone else was arriving. Party on and Eat! We had a good time, and got home around 4 PM. Later on we heard that Tom was in bed with flu like symptoms.
Sunday was a "Let's stay in bed a while" morning, and we got up late again. Around 1 PM, Beth arrived, and Adele and Beth started in on the "sister talk" hardly stopping for an hour or so. I chimed in once in awhile, while they were chewing on the pizza, but tried to leave most of the time to them. Adele loved it that Lauren also stopped in to see her (and her Mom). As I said we got a pizza from Bella Luna and ate well for lunch.
Two good days in a row. Yes, there is still stress and worry about the John Hopkins visit on Thursday, but that is not going away for awhile. Adele has one doc appointment before Thursday, so it looks like an easy week for us.
Kaelyn, Mason and Ruby are all doing so great. New videos of Ruby at http://www.youtube.com/jooliepoison - catch the one of her using her vacuum - she had not really used it by herself before, but while her Mommy was cleaning, she decided to start using it. These always bring a huge smile to Adele's face, then she starts thinking of when we might see her again. I keep pushing for a 5 day weekend visit - 2 days driving, and 3 days with them in GA.
Thanks for listening. Peace and good decision making are what is needed this week. A clear mind, understanding all the choices and making the right decision, and then sticking by that decision - We pray for that. - Rick
Saturday morning was taken up with getting ready for Jon & Angela's engagement party at Shady Maple. We left our house at 10:35 and got to Lititz, to pick up Mom & Dad, to find a fire engine in front of the building. With the firemen there, the elevators were locked down, and Mom had to wait until they were operational, since she was in a wheelchair. We still arrived in Blue Ball early and got there as everyone else was arriving. Party on and Eat! We had a good time, and got home around 4 PM. Later on we heard that Tom was in bed with flu like symptoms.
Sunday was a "Let's stay in bed a while" morning, and we got up late again. Around 1 PM, Beth arrived, and Adele and Beth started in on the "sister talk" hardly stopping for an hour or so. I chimed in once in awhile, while they were chewing on the pizza, but tried to leave most of the time to them. Adele loved it that Lauren also stopped in to see her (and her Mom). As I said we got a pizza from Bella Luna and ate well for lunch.
Two good days in a row. Yes, there is still stress and worry about the John Hopkins visit on Thursday, but that is not going away for awhile. Adele has one doc appointment before Thursday, so it looks like an easy week for us.
Kaelyn, Mason and Ruby are all doing so great. New videos of Ruby at http://www.youtube.com/jooliepoison - catch the one of her using her vacuum - she had not really used it by herself before, but while her Mommy was cleaning, she decided to start using it. These always bring a huge smile to Adele's face, then she starts thinking of when we might see her again. I keep pushing for a 5 day weekend visit - 2 days driving, and 3 days with them in GA.
Thanks for listening. Peace and good decision making are what is needed this week. A clear mind, understanding all the choices and making the right decision, and then sticking by that decision - We pray for that. - Rick
Friday, January 29, 2010
Friday - the week end
OK - today had it all. Grumpy, snappy, angry, depressed, all of it, and that was just me.. This week has been filled with appointments and work for me. I had to go go all week and now I am tired. Just got up from a 2 hour nap and still waking up. Needed to lay down and close the eyes, while Adele watched Dr Phil. Bathory (the cat) joined me and we just fell asleep without ever telling Adele. She found out right after 5 that we were sleeping and joined us for a few minutes.
Today has been a good day. We stayed home, no shopping trip, better for us both - tired and dragging the butt. We will enjoy some steaks from my daughter tonight and then a movie. Adele is feeling more like herself - but she just said "I lost Adele, and isn't sure where to find her." as a description of how she feels right now.
That sums up what I have been thinking for the past two months or so.
Oh well, this weekend is full of things to do for both of us. Saturday we will get to Shady Maple Smorgasbord for Jon and Angela's engagement party. That's the place you come out of thinking "I can't believe I ate the whole thing".
Sunday - Beth is coming over for the afternoon. And we used to think (in the late 60's) that that trip had to be an overnight trip. Oh, Elaine wanted to feed us, so she is dropping Sun supper on Saturday evening.
More later - many appointments next week, with John Hopkins on Thursday being the main one. I will post my thoughts as the week progresses.
Pray for peace all week. Rick
Today has been a good day. We stayed home, no shopping trip, better for us both - tired and dragging the butt. We will enjoy some steaks from my daughter tonight and then a movie. Adele is feeling more like herself - but she just said "I lost Adele, and isn't sure where to find her." as a description of how she feels right now.
That sums up what I have been thinking for the past two months or so.
Oh well, this weekend is full of things to do for both of us. Saturday we will get to Shady Maple Smorgasbord for Jon and Angela's engagement party. That's the place you come out of thinking "I can't believe I ate the whole thing".
Sunday - Beth is coming over for the afternoon. And we used to think (in the late 60's) that that trip had to be an overnight trip. Oh, Elaine wanted to feed us, so she is dropping Sun supper on Saturday evening.
More later - many appointments next week, with John Hopkins on Thursday being the main one. I will post my thoughts as the week progresses.
Pray for peace all week. Rick
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Jan 28, 2010
Today was a good day. Much less stress and Adele seems to be more like her old self. Maybe the new meds are working faster than we expected. She was talking with me and I believe she was more involved than for the past few months.
Today I had work to get done - got back by noon. Adele had a tooth fixed that she had lost a part of. This afternoon, we had a nice time together after some desk work. She did not have a nap, and she got out of bed and showered before I left at 8:30. Wonderful to see her doing such normal things.
Next week on Thursday we will go to John Hopkins and check in with Dr Meade. Many questions forming in both our minds. Hopefully we will get them all answered.
Thanks for all the kind words and offers of help. When we get started in on the BMT at John Hopkins - then we might need some help. Adele had asked for some meals, but once we talked and she realized I never have a problem with cooking, she called and cancelled that.
She even wants to go shopping tomorrow! I have been begging her to do that for the last week. All I need is 2 pillows from Boscov's and she kept telling me, I am too tired.
Sorry for the rambling - need to go to bed with her, and get a good rest in.
Rick & Adele
Today I had work to get done - got back by noon. Adele had a tooth fixed that she had lost a part of. This afternoon, we had a nice time together after some desk work. She did not have a nap, and she got out of bed and showered before I left at 8:30. Wonderful to see her doing such normal things.
Next week on Thursday we will go to John Hopkins and check in with Dr Meade. Many questions forming in both our minds. Hopefully we will get them all answered.
Thanks for all the kind words and offers of help. When we get started in on the BMT at John Hopkins - then we might need some help. Adele had asked for some meals, but once we talked and she realized I never have a problem with cooking, she called and cancelled that.
She even wants to go shopping tomorrow! I have been begging her to do that for the last week. All I need is 2 pillows from Boscov's and she kept telling me, I am too tired.
Sorry for the rambling - need to go to bed with her, and get a good rest in.
Rick & Adele
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Wed afternoon
We made a decision today. Adele will retire on her 62nd birthday, May 15th or the first business day after that. I have notified the school district and principal of her school. I also called PSERS and have them sending the estimate and once we get that, we can contact them for the final retirement counseling. She has finished her formal letter of requesting a retirement, and unpaid leave time from mid March through retirement.
All that running and writing done by noon, only broke down twice, I did not want to do that, but she loved teaching so much. Now all she can think about is how to get this thing defeated. Cancer, Damn - Damn - Damn - I don't like it, she doesn't like it, it makes her someone else and I hurt with her. Out Damn Cancer!
OK - I also have work to do, especially I will be the wage earner now. Too stressful a day to do much more. Shoulders hurt, back hurts, neck hurts, all tensed up.
The calendar is full of appointments again. One after another - it will be our life for the next six months or so. Many trips to Baltimore for sure. Maybe we can squeeze a trip to Augusta in there for a visit to the Barna branch of our family.
Tired, thanks for listening. Rick
All that running and writing done by noon, only broke down twice, I did not want to do that, but she loved teaching so much. Now all she can think about is how to get this thing defeated. Cancer, Damn - Damn - Damn - I don't like it, she doesn't like it, it makes her someone else and I hurt with her. Out Damn Cancer!
OK - I also have work to do, especially I will be the wage earner now. Too stressful a day to do much more. Shoulders hurt, back hurts, neck hurts, all tensed up.
The calendar is full of appointments again. One after another - it will be our life for the next six months or so. Many trips to Baltimore for sure. Maybe we can squeeze a trip to Augusta in there for a visit to the Barna branch of our family.
Tired, thanks for listening. Rick
The research at John Hopkins
The research that Adele has been notified of is for B Cell Lymphoma patients that have had a relapse. When we talk with Dr Meade we will learn more about this research.
The first part of the research is only to identify those participants that have a good donor, using polymorphism testing. Adele is OK so far with this, will any donors be good donors - good enough to be allowed into the second half of the research - the actual BMT part?
A lot of things need to happen before she actually gets a BMT through this research group. I truly believe God will control whether Adele will be OK for this.
Adele is still in a "I never thought I would be looking at a BMT again. It was so horrible in what it did to me before. I am not sure if I can do that again." She also has said many times, that it will be a family decision.
Without a BMT - I believe chemo is the other way to go, although she had relapsed within 3 months before with just chemo. This time the BMT gave her 1 year. Lord give her 20 years this time.
I am starting to need more support - this past 2 1/2 years have been hard on us both. Thanks to all for keeping in touch this way. Rick
The first part of the research is only to identify those participants that have a good donor, using polymorphism testing. Adele is OK so far with this, will any donors be good donors - good enough to be allowed into the second half of the research - the actual BMT part?
A lot of things need to happen before she actually gets a BMT through this research group. I truly believe God will control whether Adele will be OK for this.
Adele is still in a "I never thought I would be looking at a BMT again. It was so horrible in what it did to me before. I am not sure if I can do that again." She also has said many times, that it will be a family decision.
Without a BMT - I believe chemo is the other way to go, although she had relapsed within 3 months before with just chemo. This time the BMT gave her 1 year. Lord give her 20 years this time.
I am starting to need more support - this past 2 1/2 years have been hard on us both. Thanks to all for keeping in touch this way. Rick
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Evening has come to our household
We received an email from John Hopkins (Dr Meade) today. Adele was shocked by it but I thought it explained everything needed well.
Dr Meade agrees with Dr Balepur (Lancaster oncologist) that Adele probably should have a biopsy first. Dr M also asked her to read a research / study paper attached. If she was accepted in the study, she would have another BMT (bone marrow transplant) but a "mini transplant" this time, from a close relative. We are not sure who that might include, but it would be blood relative. These are also called "sister transplants" and we learned about them in December 2008 in our BMT class.
We need to make an appointment to see Dr M and talk about the study and Adele will have to make the decision whether she wants to do this or not. The study has a new way of choosing the donor for the transplant. It has to do with polymorphism testing and how stem cells bind to rituximab.
More as we know - Pray for PEACE
Dr Meade agrees with Dr Balepur (Lancaster oncologist) that Adele probably should have a biopsy first. Dr M also asked her to read a research / study paper attached. If she was accepted in the study, she would have another BMT (bone marrow transplant) but a "mini transplant" this time, from a close relative. We are not sure who that might include, but it would be blood relative. These are also called "sister transplants" and we learned about them in December 2008 in our BMT class.
We need to make an appointment to see Dr M and talk about the study and Adele will have to make the decision whether she wants to do this or not. The study has a new way of choosing the donor for the transplant. It has to do with polymorphism testing and how stem cells bind to rituximab.
More as we know - Pray for PEACE
We need to get people following this again
Last night was one call after another. Adele would not answer the phone at all - hardly even wanted to answer the text messages from Beth.
It was nice having our nephew Chris here Sunday night, he gave us a full rundown on what he is up to, and how he is looking for an intern position as one of the final fulfilments of college. Julie seemed to think she might be able to help - that would be really cool!
He helped Adele keep her mind off the appointment with Dr Balepur until it was time for it. As you see in the previous post - we had a "hot spot" discovery then. Cancer is probably back - next to John Hopkins and we both are shocked. Last night we both felt like our world had come crashing down. I think it was almost like the shock of hearing a close friend had passed. I could not keep from crying inside and choking up every time I thought about what we went through.
Adele has another appointment today and once the internet gets back again - we will find out if Dr Meade has emailed her.
Please keep up here and do not call - it is frustrating for me to intercept calls and have everyone keep asking for news and Adele laying down saying - no calls at all. We need peace and quiet for a few days I think.
It was nice having our nephew Chris here Sunday night, he gave us a full rundown on what he is up to, and how he is looking for an intern position as one of the final fulfilments of college. Julie seemed to think she might be able to help - that would be really cool!
He helped Adele keep her mind off the appointment with Dr Balepur until it was time for it. As you see in the previous post - we had a "hot spot" discovery then. Cancer is probably back - next to John Hopkins and we both are shocked. Last night we both felt like our world had come crashing down. I think it was almost like the shock of hearing a close friend had passed. I could not keep from crying inside and choking up every time I thought about what we went through.
Adele has another appointment today and once the internet gets back again - we will find out if Dr Meade has emailed her.
Please keep up here and do not call - it is frustrating for me to intercept calls and have everyone keep asking for news and Adele laying down saying - no calls at all. We need peace and quiet for a few days I think.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Monday Jan 25, 2010
Adele was worried all weekend about our appointment today - with Dr B, the oncologist. Rightfully so, it turns out. The PET scan from last Thursday showed three "hot spots". 1 under her arm and two in her neck. Oh Lord, let them be some kind of false positive!
We picked up the PET scan on CD in preparation for a John Hopkins trip to Dr Meade. Dr B in Lancaster thinks a biopsy is next, but defers to Dr Meade, as he is the head of the team working on Adele.
Once the next step and results are done, I will post more. All I want to do is eat chips and ice cream with a bit of whiskey to finish them off.
Stress is a BIG factor in our lives. Pray for release from that stress.
We picked up the PET scan on CD in preparation for a John Hopkins trip to Dr Meade. Dr B in Lancaster thinks a biopsy is next, but defers to Dr Meade, as he is the head of the team working on Adele.
Once the next step and results are done, I will post more. All I want to do is eat chips and ice cream with a bit of whiskey to finish them off.
Stress is a BIG factor in our lives. Pray for release from that stress.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Jan 21, 2010
Today is 1 Year plus a day since Adele's autologous stem cell transplant at John Hopkins!!!
Last week on the 14th we had our 1 year checkup in Baltimore. Blood work, CAT scan, bone marrow extraction, 4 of 5 immunizations, full physical and head doctor's appointment were all done - in that order - by 2:30 PM. We had arrived at 8:20, just in time for the 8:30 appointment.
Blood work was good, showing an good increase of platelets, some liver damage (we basically knew that), elevated thyroid numbers and all else was good. The CAT scan showed a return to normal size for the groin lymph nodes, while a question arose about one under her arm. The bone marrow was clean, no cancer there.
During the head doc's appointment, we heard about all of that, with a caveat about the enlarged lymph node under the arm. He said he wanted to hold back his final opinion until he saw the actual CAT scan, not just the lab tech's report. He also said he might consider a PET scan if he wanted to see the area clearer. As I understand, the CAT and PET scans together give a clearer picture of what is going on. Not that either is very clear. They are talking about a 2 mm increased, while the CAT scan only takes a picture every 3 mm. He also talked about the liver damage - never drink again (like that is a big problem with Adele - she only thinks about a drink once in a blue moon). He also said there could be thyroid damage, something called a "lazy thyroid", which could cause most of her symptoms lingering with her.
Today we are at the Lancaster Health Campus getting the PET scan and then back to Ephrata for a Dr C appointment and discussion about the thyroid - most likely tests will be done to see what is going on.
After all the tests are in - I will post something about how the results looked.
Pray for Peace in Adele
Pray for Haiti and all the families that lost so much
Thank you - Rick
Last week on the 14th we had our 1 year checkup in Baltimore. Blood work, CAT scan, bone marrow extraction, 4 of 5 immunizations, full physical and head doctor's appointment were all done - in that order - by 2:30 PM. We had arrived at 8:20, just in time for the 8:30 appointment.
Blood work was good, showing an good increase of platelets, some liver damage (we basically knew that), elevated thyroid numbers and all else was good. The CAT scan showed a return to normal size for the groin lymph nodes, while a question arose about one under her arm. The bone marrow was clean, no cancer there.
During the head doc's appointment, we heard about all of that, with a caveat about the enlarged lymph node under the arm. He said he wanted to hold back his final opinion until he saw the actual CAT scan, not just the lab tech's report. He also said he might consider a PET scan if he wanted to see the area clearer. As I understand, the CAT and PET scans together give a clearer picture of what is going on. Not that either is very clear. They are talking about a 2 mm increased, while the CAT scan only takes a picture every 3 mm. He also talked about the liver damage - never drink again (like that is a big problem with Adele - she only thinks about a drink once in a blue moon). He also said there could be thyroid damage, something called a "lazy thyroid", which could cause most of her symptoms lingering with her.
Today we are at the Lancaster Health Campus getting the PET scan and then back to Ephrata for a Dr C appointment and discussion about the thyroid - most likely tests will be done to see what is going on.
After all the tests are in - I will post something about how the results looked.
Pray for Peace in Adele
Pray for Haiti and all the families that lost so much
Thank you - Rick
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