Kelly here. The kids went home with Mary yesterday. Snow in Chicago delayed their plane for almost two hours, but they made it safely home. Thank you, Tony, for braving the elements to pick everyone up at the airport! We had a great time with the kids. The weather was beautiful in Houston, so they enjoyed running around the pool and sitting in the cabanas at the apartment complex. Aubrey spent most of the weekend working on projects from a cool fashion design book that my friends at work gave to her. So, Regan spent most of her weekend begging to use Aubrey's fashion design book and lamenting Aubrey's miserly tendencies. Jack spent the weekend in his underpants and Spiderman gloves galloping from room to room on all fours. (Don't ask).
Today Jeff and I spent all day at various doctors appointments. Jeff had his PET scan and CT scan. He also had some blood tests and had the dressings changed on his Groschong catheter. We won't know the results of the BIG scans until Thursday at our appointment with Dr. Legha, but we were informed today that the blood tests came back "good." Also, Dr. Legha's assistant said that she already made arrangements for Jeff to check into the hospital for Cycle Three of biochemo on March first, so we are glad that the doctor is proceeding with optimism. Remember, the results of these scans will determine whether Jeff gets to continue with his biochemo regimen or if he has to abandon the protocol. So far, all indications are that the treatment is working and he will be allowed to continue. However, there is a possibility that it is not, so we are very anxious about the test results. Jeff has been collected and resolute about the whole thing. I have to admit--I've been very nervous. We have a euphemism where I come from about the digestion and ultimate disposition of some "bricks" that more accurately describes my sentiments, but it is not fit for publication here. (Tee hee!).
So, we will update all of you as soon as the test results are available. In the meantime, it's time to really turn up the heat and pray hard for good scans and that Jeff can continue his treatment. In the meantime, thanks to everyone for continuing to check-in on the blog and for your consistent interest in Jeff's progress. It's great to know that you are all looking out for us.
Love,
Kelly
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Friday, February 23, 2007
Waiting For Kelly & The Kids
Hi all . . . Jeff here. I'm finally feeling up to some activity after fighting off a nasty bout of nausea earlier this week. As depressing as all this cancer business is, there's nothing that makes it more depressing than not being able to eat and feeling like you're going to be sick at any moment. It was a rather unpleasant several days. Fortunately, with the help of some antinausea drugs (Zofran and Compazine) I was able to beat back the ickiness and start to get back to some regular meals. Thank God for applesauce, jello, apple juice, 7-up, and--believe it or not--Eggo waffles. I've heard from other cancer patients who've said they could only eat White Castle Hamburgers or french fries when they're sick. It sounded strange, but I suppose everyone has one food that will stay down no matter what. It appears for me that food is a frozen waffle with syrup. It could be much worse!
Anyway, after eating several of these waffles this morning, we've come down to the computer lab while we wait for Kelly and the kids to get here. They're coming in this afternoon and I can't wait to see them. The more time I'm down here, the more I miss the daily routine of life in Wauwatosa. I wish I could get up and make breakfast for the kids, watch them run off to school, even fight with them at bedtime to get them to go to sleep. I'm trying to stay positive about how much time is left (a glass-half-full-rather-than-empty thing) but still it gets lonely down here.
Having said that, I want to send out a big thanks to my good friend, Tony Popanz, and his wife CeeCee, who added two days to a recent trip to Texas to stop by Houston and say hi. I was feeling utterly miserable the day they came, but it was still so good to see familiar faces. They also brought along all sorts of games and candy for when the kids get here, so Thanks to them for that too. And, of course, a huge THANK YOU to all of you for the constant notes of encouragement and the steady stream of prayers. I can't thank you enough.
Love,
Jeff
Anyway, after eating several of these waffles this morning, we've come down to the computer lab while we wait for Kelly and the kids to get here. They're coming in this afternoon and I can't wait to see them. The more time I'm down here, the more I miss the daily routine of life in Wauwatosa. I wish I could get up and make breakfast for the kids, watch them run off to school, even fight with them at bedtime to get them to go to sleep. I'm trying to stay positive about how much time is left (a glass-half-full-rather-than-empty thing) but still it gets lonely down here.
Having said that, I want to send out a big thanks to my good friend, Tony Popanz, and his wife CeeCee, who added two days to a recent trip to Texas to stop by Houston and say hi. I was feeling utterly miserable the day they came, but it was still so good to see familiar faces. They also brought along all sorts of games and candy for when the kids get here, so Thanks to them for that too. And, of course, a huge THANK YOU to all of you for the constant notes of encouragement and the steady stream of prayers. I can't thank you enough.
Love,
Jeff
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Gearing Up!
Well, Jeff's back on track and gearing up for his third cycle of bio-chemo which will likely start on February 28th. He really turned the corner on Tuesday afternoon and has been eating well since then. In some ways, his reaction to the second cycle has mimicked his reaction to the first. After the first round, he felt completely exhausted and drug-out. He ate very little for the first few days and slept a lot. During the first round, he was released from the hospital on a Wednesday feeling generally terrible. However, the following Monday, he turned the corner and felt like his old self again. That's when he really began to eat and rest well. He began to put on weight and take big walks.
After the second cycle, Jeff spent several days feeling nauseous and throwing up. But, almost as soon as his white blood counts rebounded, so did he and by late Tuesday he was eating and sleeping well again. Thankfully, he has a solid week to regain his weight and strength. I know he is very anxious to see the kids. I'm sure that will be the best medicine of all. Thank you SO MUCH to everyone who is making our trip possible--to the people who donated money to our family fund for airline tickets, to the people who brought the kids games and other distractions for the plane ride, to my partners and paralegal at work who are on the front-lines of my practice while I'm gone, to our next-door neighbor who always makes sure our driveway is clear of snow whether we're there or not! You have all been too wonderful for words.
And in special thanks to all the people who have donated to our Family Fund, I thought it might be fun for you to see some of the costs your generous donations defray (ala the ole' MasterCard theme . . .)
Dr. Legha's hospital visits (5 days) . . . . . . . . . . . .$2,500.00
(he doesn't take insurance, ya know!)
5 days of chemotherapy (drugs only) . . . . . . . . . .$23,000
(OK--this IS covered by insurance, but I thought you'd like to see just how much these freaking drugs cost!)
5 plane tickets to Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,428
(for me and Mary to change posts and for the kids to see Daddy)
6 days of Hospital Cafeteria Food . . . . . . . . . . . . .$180
(Apparently, the same hospital policy that allows them to charge $8 for one Tylenol tablet also allows them to charge $2.29 for four ounces of milk. Plus, I can't eat McDonald's EVERY day).
Being a 5 year-old boy and getting to watch
the Superbowl on your Dad's lap . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PRICELESS!!
(I have a cute picture of Jeff and Jack watching the game together at the Medical Apartment on the kids' first trip to Houston--I'll post it if I can figure out how to load pictures).
These are just a few fun examples of the expenses we are incurring (Multiply all of these times six treatment cycles!). They don't include many other costs such as the exorbitant parking fees at the hospital; travel to and from Chicago for flights; insurance co-pays; the time (and, therefore, money) Jeff and I have lost at work, etc. It is heartbreaking to think of all the people in Jeff's situation who do not have such generous friends and family members to help them. We really do appreciate it so much. More than anything, your generosity relieves our stress and gives us peace of mind by helping us avoid hard decisions that would otherwise have to be made on the basis of finances. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
In the meantime, please continue to pray for good scans for Jeff. And, if you wouldn't mind, please throw in a prayer for safe travels for me and the kids. I only have a couple more opportunities after this to go to Houston before I'll be side-lined by my pregnancy, so the kids and I will make the most of every trip!
P.S. I heard that Britney Spears was so inspired by Jeff that she shaved her head to show her support! Or, she did it because she's crazy. (I know it was one or the other).
Peace,
Kelly
After the second cycle, Jeff spent several days feeling nauseous and throwing up. But, almost as soon as his white blood counts rebounded, so did he and by late Tuesday he was eating and sleeping well again. Thankfully, he has a solid week to regain his weight and strength. I know he is very anxious to see the kids. I'm sure that will be the best medicine of all. Thank you SO MUCH to everyone who is making our trip possible--to the people who donated money to our family fund for airline tickets, to the people who brought the kids games and other distractions for the plane ride, to my partners and paralegal at work who are on the front-lines of my practice while I'm gone, to our next-door neighbor who always makes sure our driveway is clear of snow whether we're there or not! You have all been too wonderful for words.
And in special thanks to all the people who have donated to our Family Fund, I thought it might be fun for you to see some of the costs your generous donations defray (ala the ole' MasterCard theme . . .)
Dr. Legha's hospital visits (5 days) . . . . . . . . . . . .$2,500.00
(he doesn't take insurance, ya know!)
5 days of chemotherapy (drugs only) . . . . . . . . . .$23,000
(OK--this IS covered by insurance, but I thought you'd like to see just how much these freaking drugs cost!)
5 plane tickets to Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,428
(for me and Mary to change posts and for the kids to see Daddy)
6 days of Hospital Cafeteria Food . . . . . . . . . . . . .$180
(Apparently, the same hospital policy that allows them to charge $8 for one Tylenol tablet also allows them to charge $2.29 for four ounces of milk. Plus, I can't eat McDonald's EVERY day).
Being a 5 year-old boy and getting to watch
the Superbowl on your Dad's lap . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PRICELESS!!
(I have a cute picture of Jeff and Jack watching the game together at the Medical Apartment on the kids' first trip to Houston--I'll post it if I can figure out how to load pictures).
These are just a few fun examples of the expenses we are incurring (Multiply all of these times six treatment cycles!). They don't include many other costs such as the exorbitant parking fees at the hospital; travel to and from Chicago for flights; insurance co-pays; the time (and, therefore, money) Jeff and I have lost at work, etc. It is heartbreaking to think of all the people in Jeff's situation who do not have such generous friends and family members to help them. We really do appreciate it so much. More than anything, your generosity relieves our stress and gives us peace of mind by helping us avoid hard decisions that would otherwise have to be made on the basis of finances. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
In the meantime, please continue to pray for good scans for Jeff. And, if you wouldn't mind, please throw in a prayer for safe travels for me and the kids. I only have a couple more opportunities after this to go to Houston before I'll be side-lined by my pregnancy, so the kids and I will make the most of every trip!
P.S. I heard that Britney Spears was so inspired by Jeff that she shaved her head to show her support! Or, she did it because she's crazy. (I know it was one or the other).
Peace,
Kelly
Monday, February 19, 2007
Rest and Recovery
Hi All:
Jeff's been feeling terrible the past few days and I was just about to admonish anyone who's been slacking on their prayer duties, but he had a surprisingly good blood test today, so you're all off the hook! There. Break's over-now get back to prayin.' Ha!
Unfortunately, Jeff has recently been experiencing some of the more distasteful side effects he managed to dodge during the last round. The worst of it has been the nausea and throwing up. He's lost a lot of weight (he's down from 155 lbs. to 138 lbs.!), but he has nine or ten days before he starts the next cycle, so that's plenty of time to fatten up and regain his strength. He's been completely exhausted and has slept for most of the past two days. He was pretty sure today's blood tests were going to come back "too low" given how bad he feels, so he was pleasantly surprised to find out that his white blood counts had returned to the normal range and he could stop taking the Neupogen shots. In the meantime though, he continues to feel nauseous and exhausted and I continue to wonder if he might not be PREGNANT (his symptoms are suspiciously familiar . . .).
Speaking of being pregnant, the baby and I had his routine monthly check-up today. Dr. Lee said that he's doing fine--he has a strong heart beat and is moving a lot. I really hope that Jeff is able to be there when the baby is born. However, I also hope that he gets to stay in Houston to complete the full six cycles of bio-chemo and I realize that those two hopes may create a conflict. The baby is due May 22nd and Jeff's last treatment cycle will likely end either a few days before that or a few days after that. Most importantly, please pray that Jeff's upcoming scans show "substantial reduction" of the tumors and that the treatments are working. I'd much rather have him stay in Houston and get well!
In the meantime, Jeff will hopefully receive an emotional boost from seeing the kids again soon. I will be taking them back down to Houston from the 23rd through the 26th for another visit. They are very excited to see their Dad. They mark time in relation to when they will see him again ("That's the day before we see Daddy" or "We get to do that two days after we see Dad."). They are trying very hard to be good and to adjust to all the changes and disruption to their routines. I'm very glad they have each other right now--that's been their one constant through all this.
Well, I'll continue to keep everyone updated as information becomes available to me. Jeff has been too tired to talk on the phone, so there hasn't been much to report. Right now, he is focused on rest and recovery. Pray that he gets both in abundance!
Kelly
Jeff's been feeling terrible the past few days and I was just about to admonish anyone who's been slacking on their prayer duties, but he had a surprisingly good blood test today, so you're all off the hook! There. Break's over-now get back to prayin.' Ha!
Unfortunately, Jeff has recently been experiencing some of the more distasteful side effects he managed to dodge during the last round. The worst of it has been the nausea and throwing up. He's lost a lot of weight (he's down from 155 lbs. to 138 lbs.!), but he has nine or ten days before he starts the next cycle, so that's plenty of time to fatten up and regain his strength. He's been completely exhausted and has slept for most of the past two days. He was pretty sure today's blood tests were going to come back "too low" given how bad he feels, so he was pleasantly surprised to find out that his white blood counts had returned to the normal range and he could stop taking the Neupogen shots. In the meantime though, he continues to feel nauseous and exhausted and I continue to wonder if he might not be PREGNANT (his symptoms are suspiciously familiar . . .).
Speaking of being pregnant, the baby and I had his routine monthly check-up today. Dr. Lee said that he's doing fine--he has a strong heart beat and is moving a lot. I really hope that Jeff is able to be there when the baby is born. However, I also hope that he gets to stay in Houston to complete the full six cycles of bio-chemo and I realize that those two hopes may create a conflict. The baby is due May 22nd and Jeff's last treatment cycle will likely end either a few days before that or a few days after that. Most importantly, please pray that Jeff's upcoming scans show "substantial reduction" of the tumors and that the treatments are working. I'd much rather have him stay in Houston and get well!
In the meantime, Jeff will hopefully receive an emotional boost from seeing the kids again soon. I will be taking them back down to Houston from the 23rd through the 26th for another visit. They are very excited to see their Dad. They mark time in relation to when they will see him again ("That's the day before we see Daddy" or "We get to do that two days after we see Dad."). They are trying very hard to be good and to adjust to all the changes and disruption to their routines. I'm very glad they have each other right now--that's been their one constant through all this.
Well, I'll continue to keep everyone updated as information becomes available to me. Jeff has been too tired to talk on the phone, so there hasn't been much to report. Right now, he is focused on rest and recovery. Pray that he gets both in abundance!
Kelly
Friday, February 16, 2007
Watching and Waiting
Hi All:
Sorry for the delay between postings. Time really gets away from me during transition week. So, where in the world are the Dodds? Mary is now in Houston with Jeff; I am home with the kids; Mary Margaret is picking Grandma Myrna up at the airport in Chicago tonight and dropping-off Grandma Helen at the airport tomorrow morning. So, we are having a "Changing of the Grandmas" this weekend. I've been home less than 24 hours, but in some ways it feels like I never left. And even though I saw Jeff yesterday morning before leaving, it seems like I've been away from him forever. I dreamed about him last night walking silently toward me smiling in his green winter coat, jeans, and new Notre Dame hat (the one Dad and Rita sent). I woke up happy remembering how healthy he looked. His face was full and his gait was strong and deliberate. I hope it's a premonition of things to come!
I waited to post this until after Jeff had his blood tests and follow-up appointment with Dr. Legha this afternoon. Jeff qualified the appointment as "good." His blood counts were low (as expected) so he has to continue with the Neupogen shots. He'll have his blood checked again on Monday with hope that the problem will have corrected itself by then. Dr. Legha also pronounced that Jeff will have his follow-up scans (PET and CT) on February 27th. This will be a BIG DAY. Jeff cannot continue with his bio-chemo regimen if the scans show that the tumors have not shrunk "substantially." I asked Dr. Legha what "substantially" means--how much counts as "substantial?" He said that the lesions have to have shrunk by 50 percent or more. That's a very tall order. However, he informed Jeff that his lesions are small and that small lesions are good responders. He encouraged Jeff to "hope for the best" but hinted that he may still have a few tricks up his sleeve if this regimen is not working.
It will be very disheartening if we find out that Jeff has gone through these very grueling bio-chemo treatments without success and we would rather not have to feel that odd combination of panic, resolve, and uncertainty that would come from having to "start over" with a yet-undetermined course of action. So, please make an extra effort to pray that the treatments are working and that Jeff's tumors are responding. You've all got a head start so get going! :-)
Otherwise, Jeff reports that he feels much better today than he did yesterday and that he was somewhat surprised his blood counts were down given how good he feels. He had been getting sick (the nausea finally got the better of him) off and on since Monday night, so the doctor sent him home with a prescription for the anti-nausea drug "Compazine." However, the Compazine was affecting his jaw (making his teeth chatter even though he wasn't cold) so the doctor took him off of it. He seems to be doing well without it and has managed to eat without throwing up since then. Turns out, the Compazine can have other bizarre neurological side effects, so Jeff was lucky it didn't affect him more. (If he declares himself to be the father of Anna Nicole Smith's baby I'll know it's the Compazine talkin'). Ha!
Also, I gave Jeff another haircut to mitigate the inconvenience of it falling out. He still looks as handsome as ever but, at the moment, resembles a Marine recruit with an extreme crew-cut. My mom told me that when my cousin had breast cancer and her hair fell out--it returned much darker and curlier than it had been before. This is a phenomenon I've heard others repeat, as well. Therefore, we are hoping Jeff's hair will come back in a luscious 'fro so he can put a pick in it.
Well, I'll sign off before I get too silly, but I just wanted to update everyone and start you all down the path of praying for good scans. Dr. Legha told us from the outset that this treatment is "make or break" in the first six weeks. So, we're almost there--he really needs all of you to help push him through so he can continue with the regimen and keep working toward a complete and durable remission.
Much love, Kelly
Sorry for the delay between postings. Time really gets away from me during transition week. So, where in the world are the Dodds? Mary is now in Houston with Jeff; I am home with the kids; Mary Margaret is picking Grandma Myrna up at the airport in Chicago tonight and dropping-off Grandma Helen at the airport tomorrow morning. So, we are having a "Changing of the Grandmas" this weekend. I've been home less than 24 hours, but in some ways it feels like I never left. And even though I saw Jeff yesterday morning before leaving, it seems like I've been away from him forever. I dreamed about him last night walking silently toward me smiling in his green winter coat, jeans, and new Notre Dame hat (the one Dad and Rita sent). I woke up happy remembering how healthy he looked. His face was full and his gait was strong and deliberate. I hope it's a premonition of things to come!
I waited to post this until after Jeff had his blood tests and follow-up appointment with Dr. Legha this afternoon. Jeff qualified the appointment as "good." His blood counts were low (as expected) so he has to continue with the Neupogen shots. He'll have his blood checked again on Monday with hope that the problem will have corrected itself by then. Dr. Legha also pronounced that Jeff will have his follow-up scans (PET and CT) on February 27th. This will be a BIG DAY. Jeff cannot continue with his bio-chemo regimen if the scans show that the tumors have not shrunk "substantially." I asked Dr. Legha what "substantially" means--how much counts as "substantial?" He said that the lesions have to have shrunk by 50 percent or more. That's a very tall order. However, he informed Jeff that his lesions are small and that small lesions are good responders. He encouraged Jeff to "hope for the best" but hinted that he may still have a few tricks up his sleeve if this regimen is not working.
It will be very disheartening if we find out that Jeff has gone through these very grueling bio-chemo treatments without success and we would rather not have to feel that odd combination of panic, resolve, and uncertainty that would come from having to "start over" with a yet-undetermined course of action. So, please make an extra effort to pray that the treatments are working and that Jeff's tumors are responding. You've all got a head start so get going! :-)
Otherwise, Jeff reports that he feels much better today than he did yesterday and that he was somewhat surprised his blood counts were down given how good he feels. He had been getting sick (the nausea finally got the better of him) off and on since Monday night, so the doctor sent him home with a prescription for the anti-nausea drug "Compazine." However, the Compazine was affecting his jaw (making his teeth chatter even though he wasn't cold) so the doctor took him off of it. He seems to be doing well without it and has managed to eat without throwing up since then. Turns out, the Compazine can have other bizarre neurological side effects, so Jeff was lucky it didn't affect him more. (If he declares himself to be the father of Anna Nicole Smith's baby I'll know it's the Compazine talkin'). Ha!
Also, I gave Jeff another haircut to mitigate the inconvenience of it falling out. He still looks as handsome as ever but, at the moment, resembles a Marine recruit with an extreme crew-cut. My mom told me that when my cousin had breast cancer and her hair fell out--it returned much darker and curlier than it had been before. This is a phenomenon I've heard others repeat, as well. Therefore, we are hoping Jeff's hair will come back in a luscious 'fro so he can put a pick in it.
Well, I'll sign off before I get too silly, but I just wanted to update everyone and start you all down the path of praying for good scans. Dr. Legha told us from the outset that this treatment is "make or break" in the first six weeks. So, we're almost there--he really needs all of you to help push him through so he can continue with the regimen and keep working toward a complete and durable remission.
Much love, Kelly
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Just a Quick Update
Hi All:
Jeff was finally discharged from the hospital today, so we are back at the apartment with limited internet access. Jeff had hoped to go home yesterday, but his white blood counts were too low (1,200). However, after only one Neupogen shot, they went back up to 6,300 today. He seems to be better overall at this point than he was last time. He has blood tests again on both Thursday and Friday and a follow-up appointment with Dr. Legha on Friday, as well.
Dr. Legha has been out of town since Monday, so his colleague, Dr. Kamble, has been checking on Jeff. Dr. Kamble, too, reiterated Dr. Legha's sentiments when he said that Jeff has been doing very well. In addition to being an oncologist, Dr. Kamble is also a hemotologist and has a specialized interest in stem cell and cord blood research. We asked Dr. Kamble if he recommended saving the baby's cord blood and whether it might not be beneficial at some point in Jeff's treatment. He explained that stem cell transplants have been unsuccessful in Melanoma patients, but that he wants to think about the cord blood issue and get back to us. He was very intrigued by our question and was hesitant to answer it without doing a little research. So, maybe I'm incubating Jeff's cure as we speak! Dr. Kamble said that because I am pregnant, we have a "unique opportunity that doesn't present itself everyday" so it will be interesting to hear what he thinks after he looks into the issue.
In the meantime, we continue to hope that Dr. Legha's bio-chemo regimen will do the trick and result in a complete and durable remission. Please keep praying for that.
I will be returning home to Milwaukee on Thursday to spend a week with the kids and Mary will be coming to Houston tomorrow for a care-taking shift. Jeff's an easy patient, so I'm sure it will be a nice reprieve from the kids' busy schedules. I'm excited that my mom will be coming to Milwaukee to help me on Friday. She'll stay through next week. After that, I'll likely bring the kids to Houston for another visit and beyond that, who knows. Right now I'm just happy that we've successfully managed one week at a time. Looking ahead to March or April seems like forever!
So, Jeff is now officially in "recovery mode" again--no fresh fruits/vegetables, plants, or flowers and he's taking it easy--gently nursing and encouraging his compromised immune system. I'll continue to keep you all posted from Milwaukee. In the meantime, thank you all for your continued interest and support. It, more than anything, is what keeps Jeff going.
Kelly
Jeff was finally discharged from the hospital today, so we are back at the apartment with limited internet access. Jeff had hoped to go home yesterday, but his white blood counts were too low (1,200). However, after only one Neupogen shot, they went back up to 6,300 today. He seems to be better overall at this point than he was last time. He has blood tests again on both Thursday and Friday and a follow-up appointment with Dr. Legha on Friday, as well.
Dr. Legha has been out of town since Monday, so his colleague, Dr. Kamble, has been checking on Jeff. Dr. Kamble, too, reiterated Dr. Legha's sentiments when he said that Jeff has been doing very well. In addition to being an oncologist, Dr. Kamble is also a hemotologist and has a specialized interest in stem cell and cord blood research. We asked Dr. Kamble if he recommended saving the baby's cord blood and whether it might not be beneficial at some point in Jeff's treatment. He explained that stem cell transplants have been unsuccessful in Melanoma patients, but that he wants to think about the cord blood issue and get back to us. He was very intrigued by our question and was hesitant to answer it without doing a little research. So, maybe I'm incubating Jeff's cure as we speak! Dr. Kamble said that because I am pregnant, we have a "unique opportunity that doesn't present itself everyday" so it will be interesting to hear what he thinks after he looks into the issue.
In the meantime, we continue to hope that Dr. Legha's bio-chemo regimen will do the trick and result in a complete and durable remission. Please keep praying for that.
I will be returning home to Milwaukee on Thursday to spend a week with the kids and Mary will be coming to Houston tomorrow for a care-taking shift. Jeff's an easy patient, so I'm sure it will be a nice reprieve from the kids' busy schedules. I'm excited that my mom will be coming to Milwaukee to help me on Friday. She'll stay through next week. After that, I'll likely bring the kids to Houston for another visit and beyond that, who knows. Right now I'm just happy that we've successfully managed one week at a time. Looking ahead to March or April seems like forever!
So, Jeff is now officially in "recovery mode" again--no fresh fruits/vegetables, plants, or flowers and he's taking it easy--gently nursing and encouraging his compromised immune system. I'll continue to keep you all posted from Milwaukee. In the meantime, thank you all for your continued interest and support. It, more than anything, is what keeps Jeff going.
Kelly
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Today's Update
Another uneventful day. Jeff is just finishing his fourth and final dose of chemotherapy. He has to suck down one more bag of Interleukin tonight and take one more interferon shot tomorrow and then he will begin his day of "observation." The doctor visited him this afternoon and expects to discharge Jeff on Tuesday. He told Jeff that "you and your body are behaving well." He also felt Jeff's two remaining bumps (the "subcutaneous nodules" that started this whole thing. Remember, he originally had three but one was surgically removed on January 3rd). He could no longer find one of them and thought that another one felt "flatter" which prompted him to very boldly declare "it looks like everything is working." This was a very encouraging assertion. If you've had any dealings with an oncologist whatsoever, you will find they are even more non-committal than lawyers, so we were very happy that he would utter such a declaratory statement.
The doctor was so impressed with Jeff's stamina and performance he decided to increase the speed of the Interleukin drip and deprive him of Tylenol. This sounds like punishment, but is actually a compliment. The nurse told me that increasing the speed of the Interleukin can make the side-effects more severe because the body is taking on more of the medicine at once and has to work harder to flush it through Jeff's system. The Tylenol controls Jeff's temperature (which they try to maintain between 101 and 103). Jeff's temperature has mostly hovered around 100 today and high fevers debilitate the cancer cells and make them more receptive to treatment. Dr. Legha decided to stop giving him Tylenol to ensure Jeff could work up some "nice high fevers." So, Dr. Legha is working him extra hard which is actually a very good thing.
I've also been working very hard. Ok--that's not true, but I've always wanted to see what it felt like to say that. Ha! Anyway, who can think about work when Anna Nicole Smith is dead and Lindsay Lohan is in rehab? (I think I've been reading too many People magazines). I told Jeff that I hope he can stop worrying about the crazy astronaut love-triangle (we are in Houston, ya know!) and focus on his own recovery--but he didn't laugh. I'm sure it's only because he didn't hear me. I'll say it again later when he's awake--I'm sure he'll be in just the right mood to appreciate my humor and flair! Plainly, I'm only entertaining myself . . .
In the meantime, I want to thank Vickie and Dick for encouraging everyone at the office to help send our kids to see Disney on Ice tonight. The kids were very excited and we can't wait to hear all about their Big Night Out! Thank you SO MUCH!! You guys--and everyone at Petrie & Stocking--have been fantastic. I look forward to being back in the office next week. Until then, take care and I'll update everyone again tomorrow.
Kelly
The doctor was so impressed with Jeff's stamina and performance he decided to increase the speed of the Interleukin drip and deprive him of Tylenol. This sounds like punishment, but is actually a compliment. The nurse told me that increasing the speed of the Interleukin can make the side-effects more severe because the body is taking on more of the medicine at once and has to work harder to flush it through Jeff's system. The Tylenol controls Jeff's temperature (which they try to maintain between 101 and 103). Jeff's temperature has mostly hovered around 100 today and high fevers debilitate the cancer cells and make them more receptive to treatment. Dr. Legha decided to stop giving him Tylenol to ensure Jeff could work up some "nice high fevers." So, Dr. Legha is working him extra hard which is actually a very good thing.
I've also been working very hard. Ok--that's not true, but I've always wanted to see what it felt like to say that. Ha! Anyway, who can think about work when Anna Nicole Smith is dead and Lindsay Lohan is in rehab? (I think I've been reading too many People magazines). I told Jeff that I hope he can stop worrying about the crazy astronaut love-triangle (we are in Houston, ya know!) and focus on his own recovery--but he didn't laugh. I'm sure it's only because he didn't hear me. I'll say it again later when he's awake--I'm sure he'll be in just the right mood to appreciate my humor and flair! Plainly, I'm only entertaining myself . . .
In the meantime, I want to thank Vickie and Dick for encouraging everyone at the office to help send our kids to see Disney on Ice tonight. The kids were very excited and we can't wait to hear all about their Big Night Out! Thank you SO MUCH!! You guys--and everyone at Petrie & Stocking--have been fantastic. I look forward to being back in the office next week. Until then, take care and I'll update everyone again tomorrow.
Kelly
Friday, February 9, 2007
Cycle Two, Day Two
So, maybe hair is overrated. Jeff's is starting to fall out, but fortunately his hair is so incredibly thick that I don't think anyone will notice. Not yet, anyway. He doesn't seem to be down about it at all. Maybe it's because he is strengthened and encouraged by the brave example Pedro set with his wig in the movie Napoleon Dynomite! Ha! I offered to find Jeff a similarly stylish hairpiece, but he firmly and definitively told me "No thanks." Jeff, my offer stands if you should happen to reconsider. Otherwise, Pat, it might be time for you to start working on the first-ever "Locks of Love" fashioned from back hair!
In the meantime, Jeff continues to march through his second dose of chemo. Tonight began the second dose of Cycle Two. He's been faring so much better this time around. He hasn't been nearly as wiped out by the anti-nausea drugs. The only side-effect that has been worse, so far, are the chills that come when they induce his fever. The shaking has been more pronounced but, again, he has rejected medication that would alleviate it. And then he wrestled a shark with his bare hands and carried six grown men up eighteen flights of stairs--all while tethered to his IV pole! Ok, I made that last part up--but the point is, he is incredibly tough and is making something that is both backbreaking and heartbreaking look easy. He did eat and drink well today (he's still only up for applesauce and orange juice), and he took two walks around the hospital floor. He even opened his own mail today (Thanks for the cookies, Jill!). He really likes to get cards and letters--and it's so important when he is far away from home.
What makes me especially proud of him is knowing that even though he's here in Houston and the kids are in Milwaukee, he is still parenting them just as well as always through his courage and example and I know that as they get older and reflect on this experience they will appreciate him even more than they do now.
I'll report again tomorrow, but tonight's entry is short because, thankfully, Jeff isn't giving me a whole lot of material to work with--no exciting side-effects; no mad-cap antics; all is going well.
Your prayers continue to work for us! Keep it up!
Much love,
Kelly
In the meantime, Jeff continues to march through his second dose of chemo. Tonight began the second dose of Cycle Two. He's been faring so much better this time around. He hasn't been nearly as wiped out by the anti-nausea drugs. The only side-effect that has been worse, so far, are the chills that come when they induce his fever. The shaking has been more pronounced but, again, he has rejected medication that would alleviate it. And then he wrestled a shark with his bare hands and carried six grown men up eighteen flights of stairs--all while tethered to his IV pole! Ok, I made that last part up--but the point is, he is incredibly tough and is making something that is both backbreaking and heartbreaking look easy. He did eat and drink well today (he's still only up for applesauce and orange juice), and he took two walks around the hospital floor. He even opened his own mail today (Thanks for the cookies, Jill!). He really likes to get cards and letters--and it's so important when he is far away from home.
What makes me especially proud of him is knowing that even though he's here in Houston and the kids are in Milwaukee, he is still parenting them just as well as always through his courage and example and I know that as they get older and reflect on this experience they will appreciate him even more than they do now.
I'll report again tomorrow, but tonight's entry is short because, thankfully, Jeff isn't giving me a whole lot of material to work with--no exciting side-effects; no mad-cap antics; all is going well.
Your prayers continue to work for us! Keep it up!
Much love,
Kelly
Thursday, February 8, 2007
"Let's Get This Party Started!"
That's what Jeff said as we were checking into the hospital last night. After a quick appointment with Dr. Legha, Jeff was eager to start the Second Cycle of treatment. Dr. Legha was impressed by Jeff's recovery between sessions and he was happy to hear that the kids came to visit him. Dr. Legha had another doctor visiting him from Italy, and as he checked Jeff over, he explained to the Italian doctor that Jeff's "subcutaneous nodules" are "very small" and that the lesions on his liver and near his kidney are also "quite small." So, we were encouraged to hear him talk about Jeff's disease in those terms. We're constantly grateful that even though Jeff's cancer is advanced and has spread (thereby making him "Stage IV"), the evidence of the disease is "small." We are hoping this translates into a better prognosis. Only time will tell . . .
We checked into the hospital for Round Two last night around 5:00 p.m. Jeff ate a big dinner from Subway and was back on the chemo by 9:30 p.m. last night. He slept well despite the constant interruption of nurses who came into the room to start his various drugs and take vital signs, etc. He has slept a lot today, but has also had periods of lucidity and alertness (unlike last time when he was basically comotose for the first two days!). I read his blog comments and website guestbook entries to him. They really make his day! He's now done with Day One of chemo and will start-up again tonight.
In the meantime, he's been able to drink a lot (which is good), but doesn't have much of an appetite. On the other hand, the Baby and I ate a Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit from McDonald's this morning. :-) The Baby has been working it off all morning in a series of enthusiastic tumbles and rolls. This is easily the squirmiest baby we've had. (Aubrey, you are now a distant second!) I'm holding onto an irrational hope that all of this movement now will wear him out later so that he'll be docile and sleepy when he's born. I'm sure it's just the opposite. Oh well, being in the hospital with Jeff is great conditioning for the constant interruptions to sleep that the Baby will provide. And considering that the Baby's birth will mean an end to the terrible morning (noon and night) sickness I've been having, I actually look foward to it. I'd rather be tired than queasy any day! For those of you who don't know, I am one of the few and the proud who suffers from terrible, terrible morning sickness. And it lasts well beyond the first tri-mester--usually for a full six or seven months. This baby has really been something special in this regard. I was sick with all the other kids, but he has really outdone them! Jeff and I were even on the same anti-nausea medication for a while (Zofran). Awww. Isn't that sweet? :-) But, I haven't thrown-up since I've been in Houston, so that's good! OK, I'm going to change the subject before I gross everybody out!
Good Luck to Aubrey Kate who is auditioning for the middle school musical (The Wizard of Oz) tonight! She sang her audition song to me and Jeff while she was in Houston last week and she blew us away! We are very proud of her!
I'll post another update later. Until then, take care and thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers!
Kelly
We checked into the hospital for Round Two last night around 5:00 p.m. Jeff ate a big dinner from Subway and was back on the chemo by 9:30 p.m. last night. He slept well despite the constant interruption of nurses who came into the room to start his various drugs and take vital signs, etc. He has slept a lot today, but has also had periods of lucidity and alertness (unlike last time when he was basically comotose for the first two days!). I read his blog comments and website guestbook entries to him. They really make his day! He's now done with Day One of chemo and will start-up again tonight.
In the meantime, he's been able to drink a lot (which is good), but doesn't have much of an appetite. On the other hand, the Baby and I ate a Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit from McDonald's this morning. :-) The Baby has been working it off all morning in a series of enthusiastic tumbles and rolls. This is easily the squirmiest baby we've had. (Aubrey, you are now a distant second!) I'm holding onto an irrational hope that all of this movement now will wear him out later so that he'll be docile and sleepy when he's born. I'm sure it's just the opposite. Oh well, being in the hospital with Jeff is great conditioning for the constant interruptions to sleep that the Baby will provide. And considering that the Baby's birth will mean an end to the terrible morning (noon and night) sickness I've been having, I actually look foward to it. I'd rather be tired than queasy any day! For those of you who don't know, I am one of the few and the proud who suffers from terrible, terrible morning sickness. And it lasts well beyond the first tri-mester--usually for a full six or seven months. This baby has really been something special in this regard. I was sick with all the other kids, but he has really outdone them! Jeff and I were even on the same anti-nausea medication for a while (Zofran). Awww. Isn't that sweet? :-) But, I haven't thrown-up since I've been in Houston, so that's good! OK, I'm going to change the subject before I gross everybody out!
Good Luck to Aubrey Kate who is auditioning for the middle school musical (The Wizard of Oz) tonight! She sang her audition song to me and Jeff while she was in Houston last week and she blew us away! We are very proud of her!
I'll post another update later. Until then, take care and thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers!
Kelly
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Round 2 Begins
Hi all!
Jeff here . . . I will be starting round 2 of biochemo in--hopefully--about eight hours so I wanted to add a quick note to the blog. If everything goes as it did before, I will be out of commission for the next week or two. I'm a bit nervous this time. Last time, I didn't know what to expect. Now I do. It really wasn't that bad though, considering all the toxic drugs they're pumping into me. It's amazing what drugs can do to an otherwise healthy person. The good news is that I can tell the treatment is working. The bump I had on my back has gone down significantly in the last week. It was about the size of an almond, now it's about the size of a BB (smaller than a pea). That makes me feel good about what we're doing and gives me hope that all the other lesions are shrinking too.
Kelly and I celebrated Valentine's Day early by going out to dinner last night. We figured it was a good idea to get one last big meal in. All the eating is paying off. I weighed 155 last night before I went to bed; that's 12 pounds more than I weighed last week and about 8 pounds more than I weighed before starting round 1.
Before I sign off, I wanted to share a link to the Shade Foundation (www.shadefoundation.org). It has lots of great info about melanoma. Thanks to our good friend Barb Hayes-Dineen for passing the link along. Also, thanks to everyone for all the kind notes you've been sending and all the prayers you've been saying. I really can feel them working!
Jeff
Jeff here . . . I will be starting round 2 of biochemo in--hopefully--about eight hours so I wanted to add a quick note to the blog. If everything goes as it did before, I will be out of commission for the next week or two. I'm a bit nervous this time. Last time, I didn't know what to expect. Now I do. It really wasn't that bad though, considering all the toxic drugs they're pumping into me. It's amazing what drugs can do to an otherwise healthy person. The good news is that I can tell the treatment is working. The bump I had on my back has gone down significantly in the last week. It was about the size of an almond, now it's about the size of a BB (smaller than a pea). That makes me feel good about what we're doing and gives me hope that all the other lesions are shrinking too.
Kelly and I celebrated Valentine's Day early by going out to dinner last night. We figured it was a good idea to get one last big meal in. All the eating is paying off. I weighed 155 last night before I went to bed; that's 12 pounds more than I weighed last week and about 8 pounds more than I weighed before starting round 1.
Before I sign off, I wanted to share a link to the Shade Foundation (www.shadefoundation.org). It has lots of great info about melanoma. Thanks to our good friend Barb Hayes-Dineen for passing the link along. Also, thanks to everyone for all the kind notes you've been sending and all the prayers you've been saying. I really can feel them working!
Jeff
Sunday, February 4, 2007
A short note
Hi all!
Jeff here . . . Well, the kids are here and we're having a great time. We haven't done a whole lot of anything. Just hanging out at the apartment, but that's been best for everyone I think. Last night, I had my best night of sleep since treatment started. I don't think it's any coincidence that it happened while the kids were spread out on the floor in the next room. Having the kids here is good medicine, and I'll be sad to see them go tomorrow.
I also want to give a public thanks to my mom. She has been a wonderful caretaker during my recovery weeks: making lots of great food, keeping the apartment immaculately clean, even rubbing my back and legs when I've had trouble sleeping. I feel like I'm a kid again, home sick from school. My parents have always been there when we needed an extra hand, but this time they've gone way beyond the call of duty.
Finally, I want to recognize Kelly for all she's done to keep life as normal as possible for me and the kids during this whole ordeal. She is showing the kids how to be hopeful and steadfast even when everything seems to be going wrong. She has given me total, unwavering support so that I can focus all my attention on getting better. She has helped guide all of the help that we have received from so many people and has kept everyone informed about my condition at those times when I have been unable to speak for myself. And she's done it all while pregnant. If you see Kelly, give her a hug. She certainly deserves it.
Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. I can feel them making me stronger every day.
Jeff
Jeff here . . . Well, the kids are here and we're having a great time. We haven't done a whole lot of anything. Just hanging out at the apartment, but that's been best for everyone I think. Last night, I had my best night of sleep since treatment started. I don't think it's any coincidence that it happened while the kids were spread out on the floor in the next room. Having the kids here is good medicine, and I'll be sad to see them go tomorrow.
I also want to give a public thanks to my mom. She has been a wonderful caretaker during my recovery weeks: making lots of great food, keeping the apartment immaculately clean, even rubbing my back and legs when I've had trouble sleeping. I feel like I'm a kid again, home sick from school. My parents have always been there when we needed an extra hand, but this time they've gone way beyond the call of duty.
Finally, I want to recognize Kelly for all she's done to keep life as normal as possible for me and the kids during this whole ordeal. She is showing the kids how to be hopeful and steadfast even when everything seems to be going wrong. She has given me total, unwavering support so that I can focus all my attention on getting better. She has helped guide all of the help that we have received from so many people and has kept everyone informed about my condition at those times when I have been unable to speak for myself. And she's done it all while pregnant. If you see Kelly, give her a hug. She certainly deserves it.
Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. I can feel them making me stronger every day.
Jeff
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Just Keeps Getting Better and Better!...
Hi All:
Kelly here, reporting from Houston. We touched down safely yesterday after the kids' first EVER plane ride. While we were on the runway in Chicago, Jack kept asking when we were going to "blast off." (Something tells me he's going to like NASA). The kids really enjoyed the trip. They were absolutely bouncing off the walls. So, I was glad that they slept in the car on the way from the airport to Jeff's apartment. Thank you, Margaret, for picking us up. I would recommend your taxi service any day!
We had a fun night last night. The kids spent most of their time hugging Jeff and begging to eat snacks--yes, they fell right into their old routine! Everyone is tired today, but we have kept up a good pace. Our friends, Kevin and Melissa Gardner (and Trey, of course!) came over for lunch. The kids loved playing with Trey. Trey is 15 months old and is a real charmer--he has the sweetest dispostion. Now, Aubrey and I are checking e-mails while Jeff and Jack spend some time watching the Big Screen T.V. in the clubhouse. (They're just warming up for the Super Bowl tomorrow).
Finally, with John's permission, I am happy to announce the birth of my first niece: Ella Alina. Ella was born at precisely 1:00 p.m. CST on February 1st. She weighed in at 6 lbs. 2 oz. and was 19.5 inches long. She has red (!?) hair and her mother's beautiful face. She was spared all resemblance to my brother with the exception of her ears and toes! :-) I hope Anni is already teaching her Finnish! It's so nice to have something as exciting as a new baby in the family to distract us from the cancer that has usurped our attention for the past month.
But, Jeff still needs your prayers and encouragement. His biggest fear is that people will become disinterested or complacent once the "newness" of his diagnosis wears off. He needs to hear from you all now that he is gearing up for his second treatment cycle. Reading all of your posts really motivates him and now is the time to share your well wishes given that he will be largely unable to review and respond to them next week when he is hospitalized again. I, of course, will continue to read your e-mails and comments to him regardless, because I think it all sinks in even if he is sleeping, but he loves hearing from you--it's one of the things that makes this whole mess livable.
Over and out, Kelly
Kelly here, reporting from Houston. We touched down safely yesterday after the kids' first EVER plane ride. While we were on the runway in Chicago, Jack kept asking when we were going to "blast off." (Something tells me he's going to like NASA). The kids really enjoyed the trip. They were absolutely bouncing off the walls. So, I was glad that they slept in the car on the way from the airport to Jeff's apartment. Thank you, Margaret, for picking us up. I would recommend your taxi service any day!
We had a fun night last night. The kids spent most of their time hugging Jeff and begging to eat snacks--yes, they fell right into their old routine! Everyone is tired today, but we have kept up a good pace. Our friends, Kevin and Melissa Gardner (and Trey, of course!) came over for lunch. The kids loved playing with Trey. Trey is 15 months old and is a real charmer--he has the sweetest dispostion. Now, Aubrey and I are checking e-mails while Jeff and Jack spend some time watching the Big Screen T.V. in the clubhouse. (They're just warming up for the Super Bowl tomorrow).
Finally, with John's permission, I am happy to announce the birth of my first niece: Ella Alina. Ella was born at precisely 1:00 p.m. CST on February 1st. She weighed in at 6 lbs. 2 oz. and was 19.5 inches long. She has red (!?) hair and her mother's beautiful face. She was spared all resemblance to my brother with the exception of her ears and toes! :-) I hope Anni is already teaching her Finnish! It's so nice to have something as exciting as a new baby in the family to distract us from the cancer that has usurped our attention for the past month.
But, Jeff still needs your prayers and encouragement. His biggest fear is that people will become disinterested or complacent once the "newness" of his diagnosis wears off. He needs to hear from you all now that he is gearing up for his second treatment cycle. Reading all of your posts really motivates him and now is the time to share your well wishes given that he will be largely unable to review and respond to them next week when he is hospitalized again. I, of course, will continue to read your e-mails and comments to him regardless, because I think it all sinks in even if he is sleeping, but he loves hearing from you--it's one of the things that makes this whole mess livable.
Over and out, Kelly
Thursday, February 1, 2007
A Word From Jeff
Hi all! Well, I'm feeling really good and so I wanted to take the opportunity to post a personal note on the blog. One of the side effects of the biochemo is that it is hard for me to think straight. It's been difficult to even read, and those of you that know me know that's saying a lot. Now I'm thinking much clearer and have pounded through about 100 pages of the sixth Harry Potter books (one of the books I brought along to read) in the last couple of days. I also put together an article for work.
Now I have about a week before I head into the hospital for round 2. The doctors say to eat, eat, eat, and then eat some more. It actually is kind of hard, especially for someone who isn't used to eating a whole lot to begin with. I have gained two pounds since yesterday, though, and I'm drinking about 1000 calories a day in milk and juices alone so that's got to help. My mom is keeping me surrounded with lots of good food, as are some new local friends who have supplied us with delicious cookies, protein mix, and other goodies. The doctor said I should try to gain 15 pounds before the next treatment. I don't know if I'll succeed, but I'll make the effort!
Kelly has done a great job of keeping you appraised of my doings, so I don't need to report much. The main thing I'd like to say is THANK YOU to all of you. Your prayers, notes of encouragement, and kind actions are doing so much to keep my mind focused on the positive. I can't possibly thank everyone individually for all they're doing so please know that you are each in my thoughts and prayers of thanksgiving every night.
Finally, I'd like to give a shout out to Aubrey, Regan, and Jack. I miss you guys a lot and can't wait for you to get here tomorrow. The thing that makes me the angriest about this whole business is that it has to affect you kids. That's not fair. We'll try to make up for it a bit by having a really good time here in Houston.
Well, the line is backing up here at the computer lab at the apartment complex so I've got to go. Thanks again for all your prayers and support. They mean a lot.
Jeff
Now I have about a week before I head into the hospital for round 2. The doctors say to eat, eat, eat, and then eat some more. It actually is kind of hard, especially for someone who isn't used to eating a whole lot to begin with. I have gained two pounds since yesterday, though, and I'm drinking about 1000 calories a day in milk and juices alone so that's got to help. My mom is keeping me surrounded with lots of good food, as are some new local friends who have supplied us with delicious cookies, protein mix, and other goodies. The doctor said I should try to gain 15 pounds before the next treatment. I don't know if I'll succeed, but I'll make the effort!
Kelly has done a great job of keeping you appraised of my doings, so I don't need to report much. The main thing I'd like to say is THANK YOU to all of you. Your prayers, notes of encouragement, and kind actions are doing so much to keep my mind focused on the positive. I can't possibly thank everyone individually for all they're doing so please know that you are each in my thoughts and prayers of thanksgiving every night.
Finally, I'd like to give a shout out to Aubrey, Regan, and Jack. I miss you guys a lot and can't wait for you to get here tomorrow. The thing that makes me the angriest about this whole business is that it has to affect you kids. That's not fair. We'll try to make up for it a bit by having a really good time here in Houston.
Well, the line is backing up here at the computer lab at the apartment complex so I've got to go. Thanks again for all your prayers and support. They mean a lot.
Jeff
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