Yesterday Vicki's ANC went to zero. The mouth sores are very painful and today her tongue is so swollen she cannot eat or drink anything. They have started giving her dilaudid for the pain. Mercifully the dilaudid makes her sleep most of the time. She's not alert or energetic enough to check e-mail so if you've been corresponding you might not hear from her for a while.
They also started giving her nupagen injections over the last couple of days. These will stimulate her body to produce blood cells.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
Day +7: Monday
Received the following update from V. this morning:
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Today is my 15th day in the hospital (for this visit) and I am starting to feel the chemo side effects stronger everyday. My mouth and throat are sore . I seem to have some bumps on my tongue that are painful. Nothing tastes good, I suspect that is the palifirmen coating my tongue and mouth.
I am still having diarrhea on a frequent basis although they are giving me an anti-diarrhea drug. I am going to try the BRAT diet (Banana, rice, applesauce and tea).
The nurses are all so good to me and make this place so much more pleasant. I am very fatigued. I did not wake up until 9 this AM usually I am up at 5 or 6. Even though I had a good night's sleep I am dreaming of turning off the light and taking a nap!
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Today is my 15th day in the hospital (for this visit) and I am starting to feel the chemo side effects stronger everyday. My mouth and throat are sore . I seem to have some bumps on my tongue that are painful. Nothing tastes good, I suspect that is the palifirmen coating my tongue and mouth.
I am still having diarrhea on a frequent basis although they are giving me an anti-diarrhea drug. I am going to try the BRAT diet (Banana, rice, applesauce and tea).
The nurses are all so good to me and make this place so much more pleasant. I am very fatigued. I did not wake up until 9 this AM usually I am up at 5 or 6. Even though I had a good night's sleep I am dreaming of turning off the light and taking a nap!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Day +6: Out of the Clink
Got the news, Vicki doesn't have a C. diff infection. This is excellent news. She gets to leave her room again - not that she gets to go far, but laps around the ward and trips into the family room and day room break up the monotony a bit.
Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. Vicki's ANC (absolute neutrophil count) is down to .24. That's zero, 0.24 cells per microliter of plasma. A patient is considered neutropenic at an ANC of 500 and a normal level is 1500+. Again, this is is completely normal for this therapy. It's a sign that her bone marrow has been completely destroyed which is what we want because it means the cancer cells are dead, Dead, DEAD!!!!
Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. Vicki's ANC (absolute neutrophil count) is down to .24. That's zero, 0.24 cells per microliter of plasma. A patient is considered neutropenic at an ANC of 500 and a normal level is 1500+. Again, this is is completely normal for this therapy. It's a sign that her bone marrow has been completely destroyed which is what we want because it means the cancer cells are dead, Dead, DEAD!!!!
Day +6: Imprisoned
V. is imprisoned in her room. She's having bad diarrhea and they're keeping her isolated until they can determine the cause. Most importantly they have to rule out a nasty bug known as "c.diff". You can read more about it at the following link Vicki e-mailed to me: C. diff: A Hospital Germ on the Warpath - AARP Bulletin Today. Vicki thinks it is just a side effect from the chemo, but they can't give her any medication for it until they're sure. It's highly infectious so she has to stay in her room to protect the other patients.
Her blood counts are low enough that they've started giving her transfusions. Again, this is an expected and necessary development from the chemo killing off her bone marrow. We're entering the phase where she will be increasingly fatigued and vulnerable to infection, but so far so good!
Her blood counts are low enough that they've started giving her transfusions. Again, this is an expected and necessary development from the chemo killing off her bone marrow. We're entering the phase where she will be increasingly fatigued and vulnerable to infection, but so far so good!
Friday, December 26, 2008
Day +4: Did You Get the News? I'm Neutropenic!
One Step Closer to Home
Neutropenia; it's a bad thing, but also an expected result of Vicki's treatment. Her blood counts will need to completely bottom out to insure that the chemo completely killed the bone marrow and all the cancer cells with it.
This does mean that she is more vulnerable to infection and will be more fatigued, but that's why she's safe in the hospital where she can be supported until her body is able to grow healthy bone marrow from the transplant and then start producing healthy blood cells.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Christmas Was a Good Day
Vicki was feeling perky and well today, even well enough to have a goodly amount of her own lunch. It was cold in San Francisco, but clear and sunny, a beautiful day. We had music, nice things to drink and eat, presents, and a few good laughs.
We did skip one tradition, watching Bad Santa. I left the DVD with Vicki to watch later this evening, but only if she promises to wear headphones. Some of the dialogue is too rude to take the chance of somebody overhearing.
It was a pretty darn good Christmas after all.
We did skip one tradition, watching Bad Santa. I left the DVD with Vicki to watch later this evening, but only if she promises to wear headphones. Some of the dialogue is too rude to take the chance of somebody overhearing.
It was a pretty darn good Christmas after all.
Day +3: Christmas
That chemo is working hard, giving her a full body burning itch, a thick white coating on her tongue, and assorted other yuckiness, but our girl is working hard at keeping up her spirits.
The Hostess
She has planned a full day of celebrations for Jack and me. She's not doing much in the way of eating these days, but she ordered a big lunch from the hospital menu for us to share. She's planned a word game for us and informed me that she has an electric tea pot and a mini-fridge full of drinks for us as well.
Happy Holidays
I have everything I need and everything I want, save one; for our Dear Friend to be home, well, safe and snug in her own little nest. That will come soon enough. Until then, whatever your tradition or non-tradition, I wish for you what I wish for myself this Christmas day; peace, contentment, and hope.
The Hostess
She has planned a full day of celebrations for Jack and me. She's not doing much in the way of eating these days, but she ordered a big lunch from the hospital menu for us to share. She's planned a word game for us and informed me that she has an electric tea pot and a mini-fridge full of drinks for us as well.
Happy Holidays
I have everything I need and everything I want, save one; for our Dear Friend to be home, well, safe and snug in her own little nest. That will come soon enough. Until then, whatever your tradition or non-tradition, I wish for you what I wish for myself this Christmas day; peace, contentment, and hope.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Day +1: Tuesday
Day zero has passed. Vicki received five bags of stem cells yesterday. She's very tired, but she reports that she feels safe, well-cared for, and peaceful. She is expected to get a bit sicker, possibly more than a bit, from the effects of the chemo, but this is the healing phase. She's received all the anti-cancer treatment and "just" has to tough it out and stay infection free while her body heals itself.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Day -1: Sunday
Day -1
Vicki is doing surprisingly well with the chemo which is to say, she's sick as a dog instead of sick as a pack of dogs. She's had quite a bit of tummy trouble and blinding headaches, not getting much food down the hatch, but the medical team is giving her piles of meds to help with the side effects. She's graduated from vicodin to hillbilly heroin (oxycontin), but that's not doing much for the headache so the next step is dilaudid. The big D puts her into loopy land. After I got back from Hawaii she was on dilaudid when she was petting my arm and sighing, "You're so pretty."
Transplant Monday
Tomorrow is day Zero. The stem cells harvested last month will be transfused back into Vicki's body where they will populate her bone marrow with healthy, cancer free cells.
Today there was a visitor to the hospital, a woman who had her transplant three years ago at this time. She brought small gifts for all the patients. One was a coffee mug full of goodies and the other was the hope for recovery.
Vicki is doing surprisingly well with the chemo which is to say, she's sick as a dog instead of sick as a pack of dogs. She's had quite a bit of tummy trouble and blinding headaches, not getting much food down the hatch, but the medical team is giving her piles of meds to help with the side effects. She's graduated from vicodin to hillbilly heroin (oxycontin), but that's not doing much for the headache so the next step is dilaudid. The big D puts her into loopy land. After I got back from Hawaii she was on dilaudid when she was petting my arm and sighing, "You're so pretty."
Transplant Monday
Tomorrow is day Zero. The stem cells harvested last month will be transfused back into Vicki's body where they will populate her bone marrow with healthy, cancer free cells.
Today there was a visitor to the hospital, a woman who had her transplant three years ago at this time. She brought small gifts for all the patients. One was a coffee mug full of goodies and the other was the hope for recovery.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Psalms 30
When Vicki was at Mt. Diablo one of the nurses read the 30th Psalm with her. Vicki found great comfort and meaning in it and asks that we each read it in the spirit of support and unity.
Psalms 30
- I will praise you, LORD! You saved me from the grave and kept my enemies from celebrating my death.
- I prayed to you, LORD God, and you healed me,
- saving me from death and the grave.
- Your faithful people, LORD, will praise you with songs and honor your holy name.
- Your anger lasts a little while, but your kindness lasts for a lifetime. At night we may cry, but when morning comes we will celebrate.
- I was carefree and thought, "I'll never be shaken!"
- You, LORD, were my friend, and you made me strong as a mighty mountain. But when you hid your face, I was crushed. I prayed to you, LORD, and in my prayer I said,
- "What good will it do you if I am in the grave? Once I have turned to dust, how can I praise you or tell how loyal you are?
- Have pity, LORD! Help!"
- You have turned my sorrow into joyful dancing. No longer am I sad and wearing sackcloth.
- I thank you from my heart, and I will never stop singing your praises, my LORD and my God.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Day -4: The Honeymoon is Over
Yesterday's beautiful clear skies are dark gray this afternoon and it looks like we're in for a storm tonight. It's apropos because the chemo has started to do it's wonderful/terrible work.
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Here's a message from Vicki which I am posting on her behalf.
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Last night I got really nauseous. I was given anti-nausea drugs and I got some sleep. This morning I forced myself to eat some yogurt and a boiled egg white. Big mistake. I was doing my laps around the floor when I waylaid by the need to throw up and I did right in the hall in front of the nurse's station. I got more meds and then I slept most of the day.
I did not eat lunch and doubt I can eat dinner. Can't wait until this is over and I am home sweet home!
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Here's a message from Vicki which I am posting on her behalf.
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Last night I got really nauseous. I was given anti-nausea drugs and I got some sleep. This morning I forced myself to eat some yogurt and a boiled egg white. Big mistake. I was doing my laps around the floor when I waylaid by the need to throw up and I did right in the hall in front of the nurse's station. I got more meds and then I slept most of the day.
I did not eat lunch and doubt I can eat dinner. Can't wait until this is over and I am home sweet home!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Day -5 - A routine day
The SF Bay Area is having abnormally cold weather, probably nothing for most of you folks in other parts of the country, but we had a rare hard freeze last night and there's snow dusting the hills. Today the cold was accompanied by beautiful crystal clear skies. Vicki enjoyed the view from her room, watching the fishing boats said under the Golden Gate Bridge on their way out to sea.
She said she heard the prisoner go by or at least hear chains rattling. I asked if she was sure it wasn't the ghost of Bob Marley.
Here's picture of Vicki with her mini-quilt made of photographs from Sea Ranch.
She said she heard the prisoner go by or at least hear chains rattling. I asked if she was sure it wasn't the ghost of Bob Marley.
Here's picture of Vicki with her mini-quilt made of photographs from Sea Ranch.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Day -6
Vicki's transplant is scheduled for the 22nd. The transplant is considered day zero so the days leading up to it are -8, -7, etc. and the days after are +1, +2, and so on. Christmas will be day +3. Vicki is looking forward to watching Bad Santa on Christmas Day. She says she's in a private room so there should be no complaints unless we snort too loudly, but I want to remind her of some of the infamous lines from the movie - remember the three B's? Booze, broads, and something I can't post on the blog? We're going to have to keep the volume turned down or else I'm going to have to get the edited version.
There is a prisoner on the floor there are 2 or 3 California Dept of Corrections guards on duty at all times. Vicki asked Jack to bring up his Red Ryder BB gun just in case a shoot out develops! She didn't mention whether she expected Jack to stand guard duty outside her room or if she wanted the gun for her own use. Those nurses and doctors had better watch out.
On the previous hospitalizations she needed to wear the hospital gowns for access to the port in her arm. With the line her her neck she can wear her own jammies and t-shirts and things and says this makes her much more comfortable, although she complains that the bath towels are the size of a paper towel with less absorption. What does she think this is, the MGM Grand? I didn't notice that she minded the hospital gowns that much anyway, what with their air conditioned backs and her penchant for unrepentant flashing.
She has the same attending physician as last time and likes him a great deal too.
All in all, things are moving along as expected.
There is a prisoner on the floor there are 2 or 3 California Dept of Corrections guards on duty at all times. Vicki asked Jack to bring up his Red Ryder BB gun just in case a shoot out develops! She didn't mention whether she expected Jack to stand guard duty outside her room or if she wanted the gun for her own use. Those nurses and doctors had better watch out.
On the previous hospitalizations she needed to wear the hospital gowns for access to the port in her arm. With the line her her neck she can wear her own jammies and t-shirts and things and says this makes her much more comfortable, although she complains that the bath towels are the size of a paper towel with less absorption. What does she think this is, the MGM Grand? I didn't notice that she minded the hospital gowns that much anyway, what with their air conditioned backs and her penchant for unrepentant flashing.
She has the same attending physician as last time and likes him a great deal too.
All in all, things are moving along as expected.
Monday, December 15, 2008
(ad)Mission Accomplished
UCSF Round 1
The first trip to UCSF was to get a infusion of palifermin to protect against mouth sores from the coming chemo.
After the infusion V&J called the main hospital to see if V's room was ready, which it was not. The hospital said the room would not be ready until 3PM. Since it was only 10AM and pouring rain on our coldest day so far this winter, the McF's decided to go home.
It's a good think they did because they later called from home and the hospital told them it would be 5PM then 8PM. When they arrived at the hospital at 8PM the room was still not ready. This is worse than checking in at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas and they don't even have Wheel of Fortune or cocktails.
UCSF Trip 2 - The Human Pin Cushion
After getting the dreaded catheter in her neck, they still needed another line to check out V's busulfan level so she got poked 4 times in my arm and once in each foot (OUCH) before they brought a nurse from ER who got me on the first try in her arm.
Monday Morning - Staring the Honeymoon
This morning they started the busulfan which V. will get 4 times a day for 4 days. The nurse Vicki calls St Agnes (had her several times last visit) says the first part of my stay will be a honeymoon period. Vicki says, "I sure hope she is right. But we know what comes after the honeymoon OH NO!" After the busulfan she'll get the stem cell transplant and the real fun will start.
The first trip to UCSF was to get a infusion of palifermin to protect against mouth sores from the coming chemo.
After the infusion V&J called the main hospital to see if V's room was ready, which it was not. The hospital said the room would not be ready until 3PM. Since it was only 10AM and pouring rain on our coldest day so far this winter, the McF's decided to go home.
It's a good think they did because they later called from home and the hospital told them it would be 5PM then 8PM. When they arrived at the hospital at 8PM the room was still not ready. This is worse than checking in at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas and they don't even have Wheel of Fortune or cocktails.
UCSF Trip 2 - The Human Pin Cushion
After getting the dreaded catheter in her neck, they still needed another line to check out V's busulfan level so she got poked 4 times in my arm and once in each foot (OUCH) before they brought a nurse from ER who got me on the first try in her arm.
Monday Morning - Staring the Honeymoon
This morning they started the busulfan which V. will get 4 times a day for 4 days. The nurse Vicki calls St Agnes (had her several times last visit) says the first part of my stay will be a honeymoon period. Vicki says, "I sure hope she is right. But we know what comes after the honeymoon OH NO!" After the busulfan she'll get the stem cell transplant and the real fun will start.
More Head Dents
Vicki adds "I have already bumped my head on the bleeping TV! And a nurse was in the room but I talked her out of any further action!" Last time Vicki whacked her head on Ivy and they had to do a head CT. The tiny television hangs down over the bed on a movable arm so there are numerous head denting opportunities.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
All Systems are Go
Vicki is recovered enough from her cold and bronchitis that she'll start the next phase of her treatment on schedule this Friday. She gets the neck catheter and starts her injections in preparation for admission on Sunday and starting the Big Chemo.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
A Nasty Cold and Preparing for the Next Round
You'd think that a person with cancer would get a pass on ordinary stuff, but Vicki came down with a cold around Thanksgiving. She was very careful about going out and about, but it's everywhere at this time of year so short of staying hermetically sealed in a bubble it's pretty hard to avoid. It progressed into a case of bronchitis so the docs got her going on antibiotics and she's starting to feel better.
Chemo goes after all the fast growing cells in the body. While that's good for killing cancer, it does a number on fast growing healthy tissues such as hair, skin, and mucus membranes. Late this week Vicki will start a series of injections which will help build up the mucus membranes in her mouth, nose, and throat. The purpose is to limit the extent of the sores that are expected during this next intense chemo.
This week Vicki learned that she'll need another catheter in her neck, similar to the one she needed during the stem cell harvest. This was upsetting news because the previous one was painful, but the transplant coordinator assured her that this one will be better. This is necessary because the catheter in the neck provides more access to larger vessels making it possible for her to receive fluids, transfusions, medications, and intravenous feedings all at once.
Chemo goes after all the fast growing cells in the body. While that's good for killing cancer, it does a number on fast growing healthy tissues such as hair, skin, and mucus membranes. Late this week Vicki will start a series of injections which will help build up the mucus membranes in her mouth, nose, and throat. The purpose is to limit the extent of the sores that are expected during this next intense chemo.
This week Vicki learned that she'll need another catheter in her neck, similar to the one she needed during the stem cell harvest. This was upsetting news because the previous one was painful, but the transplant coordinator assured her that this one will be better. This is necessary because the catheter in the neck provides more access to larger vessels making it possible for her to receive fluids, transfusions, medications, and intravenous feedings all at once.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Bone Marrow Monday
Patient Consent, page 2 of 7: "After a four to six week rest period at home I will again be evaluated to make sure I am still in complete remission adn to make sure that my internal organs (heart, liver, kidney and lungs) are in satisfactory condition to proceed with further intensive treament."
Vicki had another bone marrow biopsy yesterday, one of the first steps in preparing to return for the second phase of treatment. She said that this one wasn't as bad as the previous two. I suppose it's all relative as the previous two were at the northwest corner of Hideous and Excruciating.
Vicki had another bone marrow biopsy yesterday, one of the first steps in preparing to return for the second phase of treatment. She said that this one wasn't as bad as the previous two. I suppose it's all relative as the previous two were at the northwest corner of Hideous and Excruciating.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Amy's Angels
Amy's Angels is a project started by a friend of Megan M. (Julie's daughter) .
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As many of you know, in September I walked in the Breast Cancer 3-day Walk because of my friend Amy. I am happy to report that Amy is cancer free andis back to her sassy self.
Recently Amy shared with me that what got her through the tough times were cards and letters from friends and family. She also got cards from people she didn't even know. This got me thinking. I talked it over with our3-day team and they love the idea of paying it forward. This is how theCards by Amy's Angels project was born. We want to send out cards to peoplewho are fighting cancer. Not just breast cancer--any cancer.
Here's how it works: a friend or family member requests a card. They send an e-mail to our card address ( located on our blog) and we then send out the card FREE OF CHARGE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD. The recipient gets a handmade card (did you see that? HANDMADE...noHallmark stuff here!) with a personal note inside from one of us.It's that easy.
This is where you come in. I need you to bookmark our site and send it to anyone you know. Ask them to bookmark it and pass it on. Anything thatwill get our blog out there for folks to see. Oh...and the blog site is: http://cardsbyamysangels.blogspot.com
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As many of you know, in September I walked in the Breast Cancer 3-day Walk because of my friend Amy. I am happy to report that Amy is cancer free andis back to her sassy self.
Recently Amy shared with me that what got her through the tough times were cards and letters from friends and family. She also got cards from people she didn't even know. This got me thinking. I talked it over with our3-day team and they love the idea of paying it forward. This is how theCards by Amy's Angels project was born. We want to send out cards to peoplewho are fighting cancer. Not just breast cancer--any cancer.
Here's how it works: a friend or family member requests a card. They send an e-mail to our card address ( located on our blog) and we then send out the card FREE OF CHARGE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD. The recipient gets a handmade card (did you see that? HANDMADE...noHallmark stuff here!) with a personal note inside from one of us.It's that easy.
This is where you come in. I need you to bookmark our site and send it to anyone you know. Ask them to bookmark it and pass it on. Anything thatwill get our blog out there for folks to see. Oh...and the blog site is: http://cardsbyamysangels.blogspot.com
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Back to the Hospital on the 14th
Yesterday Vicki got the news that she'll have to go back to UCSF for the transplantation phase of the treatment on December 14. This means she'll be there through the Christmas and New Year holidays.
We're going to have to figure out how to adapt our Christmas morning tradition to a hospital setting. I'm not sure if adult beverages and the un-rated version of "Bad Santa" will be permitted.
We're going to have to figure out how to adapt our Christmas morning tradition to a hospital setting. I'm not sure if adult beverages and the un-rated version of "Bad Santa" will be permitted.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
A Big Harvest
Today I arrived at work where I picked up a phone message from Jack, shortly before Vicki was discharged from the hospital yesterday.
He said that they needed to harvest 2 1/2 million cells for the transplant. Analysis of the first harvest showed that it contained 60 million cells, "That's six-zero." Way to go Vicki!
Jack had the dogs waiting in the car for the trip home, which I thought was very sweet. I'll bet those were two happy pups.
He said that they needed to harvest 2 1/2 million cells for the transplant. Analysis of the first harvest showed that it contained 60 million cells, "That's six-zero." Way to go Vicki!
Jack had the dogs waiting in the car for the trip home, which I thought was very sweet. I'll bet those were two happy pups.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
A True Thanksgiving
Miss Vicki went home from the hospital this afternoon. We will have a true Thanksgiving this year. She said she'll need several nights of sleeping in her own bed to start feeling normal.
Unless there are major developments there will be a little less activity on the blog now, updates only when there is something significant report. Everybody have a nice holiday, count some blessings.
Unless there are major developments there will be a little less activity on the blog now, updates only when there is something significant report. Everybody have a nice holiday, count some blessings.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Coming Home Tuesday (Cross Your Fingers!!!)
I had a message from Jack this afternoon telling me that Vicki did beautifully today. They inserted the catheter in her neck and did the first apheresis session as planned. The quality of the white cells they collected was very "rich", which is a good thing, so good that they might have gotten enough on this first try. The technician who tests the sample has gone home for the day so we won't know until the morning. There's a small chance they'll have to do one more collection tomorrow, but either way Vicki should be able to go home tomorrow. She's in a bit of pain from the catheter so taking some good pain relief to keep her comfortable tonight.
Everybody say your prayers and cross your fingers!
Everybody say your prayers and cross your fingers!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
All Benign
All lumps, bumps, and skull creases are benign. Tomorrow morning V. gets a catheter in her neck which sounds a little scary and makes her a bit nervous. It'll be Jack's day off work so he'll be able to be at the hospital for support. The first stem cell harvest will be in the afternoon.
V. is hoping to come home soon. We know that there's always the chance that things could go off course over the next few days, but if things change we'll just deal with it then. For now we're going to assume a normal course of events, a high yield harvest, and a quick discharge leaving plenty of time to be home and enjoy the holidays before the big treament begins.
The next round of treatment will be a big one folks. The drugs are intense and there's no getting around the fact that the Dragonfly Gal will be sick, sick, sick, even with all the medical support. It'll be hard, but she can do it with a little help from the village.
V. is hoping to come home soon. We know that there's always the chance that things could go off course over the next few days, but if things change we'll just deal with it then. For now we're going to assume a normal course of events, a high yield harvest, and a quick discharge leaving plenty of time to be home and enjoy the holidays before the big treament begins.
The next round of treatment will be a big one folks. The drugs are intense and there's no getting around the fact that the Dragonfly Gal will be sick, sick, sick, even with all the medical support. It'll be hard, but she can do it with a little help from the village.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Lumps and Bumps
V. had a little temperature spike Thursday night and was pretty sweaty and uncomfortable. She found a lump on her (she'd kill me if I told you exactly where) which may be an abscess and could explain the fever. They did a CT scan and are waiting for the results to decide what to do about it.
Last night she whacked her head on IVY (the IV pole) for about the dozenth time, but this time Jack ratted her out to the nurse so they scanned her head at the same time as the lump. We're still waiting for results, but I'm pretty sure the diagnosis will be a thick skull and the prescription will be to duck next time.
The 20 Day Limit
V. said that 20 days is about her limit on this deal which means her expiration date is Sunday. Hospitals are not good places for sick people and V. is just about ready to go home. She's feeling spunky and P.O.'ed about having to be there, which is a pretty good sign overall.
Last night she whacked her head on IVY (the IV pole) for about the dozenth time, but this time Jack ratted her out to the nurse so they scanned her head at the same time as the lump. We're still waiting for results, but I'm pretty sure the diagnosis will be a thick skull and the prescription will be to duck next time.
The 20 Day Limit
V. said that 20 days is about her limit on this deal which means her expiration date is Sunday. Hospitals are not good places for sick people and V. is just about ready to go home. She's feeling spunky and P.O.'ed about having to be there, which is a pretty good sign overall.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Update from Vicki
Received the following e-mail message from Vicki on Thursday:
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My white counts have already started to increase from the neupogen and Doctor Wolf says we are ahead of schedule. He is increasing the dosage of neupogen tomorrow evening and sheduling my collection catheter be put in on Monday. Then Tuesday the Harvest will begin. I am really excited.I could be going home next week.
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My white counts have already started to increase from the neupogen and Doctor Wolf says we are ahead of schedule. He is increasing the dosage of neupogen tomorrow evening and sheduling my collection catheter be put in on Monday. Then Tuesday the Harvest will begin. I am really excited.I could be going home next week.
Start Warming Up the John Deer
Dr. W. says they'll be ready to begin harvesting stem cells next week. The process is described in detail in the document included in one of the earlier posts, but in short the patient's blood circulates through a machine which separates out the cells they need to keep then returns the remaining cells to the patient. If you've ever done apheresis platelet donations at your local blood bank, the process is similar. The process takes 3-4 hours and will be repeated 1-4 times until there are enough cells for the transplant.
Donate Blood
And speaking of blood donations, Vicki has received literally dozens of units of donated whole blood and platelets. Without the support of these transfusions the chemotherapy she receives would weaken her to the point that it would be very difficult to survive. Blood products are always in extremely short supply and there have been times when it was not certain whether Vicki would receive what she needed. She does not need designated donations from any of us, but your donations can help improve the overall supply across the nation and help support others in your community whose lives depend on it.
Donate Blood
And speaking of blood donations, Vicki has received literally dozens of units of donated whole blood and platelets. Without the support of these transfusions the chemotherapy she receives would weaken her to the point that it would be very difficult to survive. Blood products are always in extremely short supply and there have been times when it was not certain whether Vicki would receive what she needed. She does not need designated donations from any of us, but your donations can help improve the overall supply across the nation and help support others in your community whose lives depend on it.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Nothing Much to Report
No big news, which is good news. Vicki is nice and stable, no infections, no major developments. She's doing so well that her doctor suggested moving her to another floor so that a sicker patient could be moved to the leukemia ward. After moving four times this was unwelcome news. Jack made a phone call to the nead nurse and said, "I don't think so."* Vicki will be staying put for now.
* Private joke: reference to the time I scared a little girl in Las Vegas.
* Private joke: reference to the time I scared a little girl in Las Vegas.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Growth Hormone Begins
I had a nice visit with the DragonflyGal on Sunday. She was perky and alert, taking her walks, and doing great. She says this treatment is a walk in the park compared to what she went through in August.
Today she'll begin taking the growth hormone which will increase her white blood cell count and prepare her for the collection phase of the treatment during which stem cells will be collected from her blood stream to be transplanted later. The drug, filgrastim (brand name Neupogen), can cause mild to moderate bone pain. Vicki took this drug in 2005 and found it to be quite painful. Our good friend vicodin will be back in town for the duration of this treatment.
Today she'll begin taking the growth hormone which will increase her white blood cell count and prepare her for the collection phase of the treatment during which stem cells will be collected from her blood stream to be transplanted later. The drug, filgrastim (brand name Neupogen), can cause mild to moderate bone pain. Vicki took this drug in 2005 and found it to be quite painful. Our good friend vicodin will be back in town for the duration of this treatment.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Private Room
Miss V. has her private room now. She has a view of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge. She said that last night she watched the fog roll in until her windows looked frosty.
She's tired and weak, but doing pretty well. The diarrhea is over, thank goodness! She had a little fever last night and has developed some itty bitty sores in her mouth, which is very much expected. She went for two walks yesterday which will help very much with keeping up her strength and energy.
She says she really likes her nurses and feels safe there.
Jack can't visit because he has a cold so keep the phone calls and e-mails coming to keep our gal company.
She's tired and weak, but doing pretty well. The diarrhea is over, thank goodness! She had a little fever last night and has developed some itty bitty sores in her mouth, which is very much expected. She went for two walks yesterday which will help very much with keeping up her strength and energy.
She says she really likes her nurses and feels safe there.
Jack can't visit because he has a cold so keep the phone calls and e-mails coming to keep our gal company.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Yeah for Neutropenia
Today's bloodwork showed that Vicki is neutropenic which means her white blood cell count is low. This is an expected result of the chemo and although it means she is now more vulnerable to infection. The good news is that it means she gets to move to a private room.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Shhhhh (It's a Surprise)
I need your help to try to coordinate a little surprise for Miss V. Please e-mail me privately so I can clue you in on what you can do.
She's reading the blog so Shhhhhhhhhhh!
How To -- REVISED 6-NOV
Sorry, my previous instructions aren't working. I didn't want to post my e-mail address because this is a public blog and I'm asking for heaps-o-spam. I'll It's AllenAndCatz@att.net. BE SURE TO WRITE IT DOWN. I'm going to take if off the blog after a couple of days.
She's reading the blog so Shhhhhhhhhhh!
How To -- REVISED 6-NOV
Sorry, my previous instructions aren't working. I didn't want to post my e-mail address because this is a public blog and I'm asking for heaps-o-spam. I'll It's AllenAndCatz@att.net. BE SURE TO WRITE IT DOWN. I'm going to take if off the blog after a couple of days.
Chemo Means Business
Yesterday was not good. Vicki said, "The chemo let me know it meant business." Today she is better, but very tired. Her blood counts are starting to decline, as expected. When they get low enough she'll get to move to a private room.
They are running a poo test to see if her diarrhea is bacterial and if so, antiobiotics will start. She's expecting her first transfusion today which always gives her a bit of pep.
She's working on doing a little exercise every day and said that everybody is out doing their laps around the ward during the day, but it gets pretty boring. She said she might try a short bike ride today. I assume she means a stationary bike, but don't be surprise if you see her out in Golden Gate park with her hospital johnny flying and her fanny hanging out for the world to see.
Keep the comments and e-mails coming. V. said that although she doesn't always feel well enough to reply, they really help lift her spirits.
They are running a poo test to see if her diarrhea is bacterial and if so, antiobiotics will start. She's expecting her first transfusion today which always gives her a bit of pep.
She's working on doing a little exercise every day and said that everybody is out doing their laps around the ward during the day, but it gets pretty boring. She said she might try a short bike ride today. I assume she means a stationary bike, but don't be surprise if you see her out in Golden Gate park with her hospital johnny flying and her fanny hanging out for the world to see.
Keep the comments and e-mails coming. V. said that although she doesn't always feel well enough to reply, they really help lift her spirits.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Treatment Details
Last Sunday Vicki gave me a copy of a patient consent form which spells out the details of the treatments she will receive along with the risks and side effects. For those who feel better with more information, I have provided a link to a copy of that document.
WARNING: I found it rather frightening and upsetting to get so many details all at once so please consider your own sensitivity to such things when deciding whether or not to read.
Patient Consent Form (.pdf)
This is a rather large document so it may take a couple of minutes to load in your browser window.
WARNING: I found it rather frightening and upsetting to get so many details all at once so please consider your own sensitivity to such things when deciding whether or not to read.
Patient Consent Form (.pdf)
This is a rather large document so it may take a couple of minutes to load in your browser window.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Do Over
Miss V. reported to UCSF for admission on Monday, but after doing some lab work and having a PICC line inserted whe was told to go home because there were no beds available. She had to go home with the PICC line, which was sort of sore, but not nearly as bad as in August when she was horribly bruised because of her low platelet count.
While it was nice to be able to go home and see the pups, V. is in the frame of mind to get this journey started and over with, so it was disappointing. She's to call back today and find out whether or not they will be able to admit her.
While it was nice to be able to go home and see the pups, V. is in the frame of mind to get this journey started and over with, so it was disappointing. She's to call back today and find out whether or not they will be able to admit her.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
UCSF on Monday
Last week's bone marrow biopsy was very, very un-fun, but the results showed that Miss V. is in remission which is a very good thing. Sine then she's been a busy gal getting tests, tests, and more tests. She said they need to make sure she's well enough for them to make her sick again.
V. says, " I passed all my tests with flying colors and Dr Damon said there is no better place to start than perfect! That made me feel very good. I am ready to start . I will be admitted to UCSF on Monday. I may have to share a room for awhile but ASAP they will move me to a private room. I am anxious to get this started."
V. says, " I passed all my tests with flying colors and Dr Damon said there is no better place to start than perfect! That made me feel very good. I am ready to start . I will be admitted to UCSF on Monday. I may have to share a room for awhile but ASAP they will move me to a private room. I am anxious to get this started."
Friday, October 10, 2008
UCSF Says . . .
Vicki had her appointment with the leukemia specialist at UCSF yesterday. UCSF has one of the top ten cancer treatment centers in the country. They have an entire ward specifically for the treament of cancers of the blood and lymph systems.
No More Chemo
The specialist recommends that Vicki not undergo additional chemotherapy. The drug she would receive is from a class of drugs called anthracyclines. There is a lifetime limit on these drugs due to their cumulative toxic effects, particularly on the heart. Between the chemo she received for breast cancer and her recent chemo for leukemia, the specialist believes she should not receive more of this particular drug.
So What's Next?
The speciliast has recommended an autologous stem cell transplantation (aw-TAH-luh-gus). Stem cells are a kind of generic cell, the Bisquick of the human body. Just like Bisquick can be made into biscuits, pancakes, or taco casserole (yuck), stem cells can develop into any type of specialized cell such as heart, brain, or blood. The basic idea of the transplant is that you kill the patient's diseased bone marrow, then give the patient her own stem cells which will grow back as healthy bone marrow.
The first stage is collection which requires a 3-4 week hospitalization. During this phase medications are administered which stimulate the bone marrow to release stem cells into the blood stream. These cells are collected and stored for later.
After the collection phase she would go home for a month.
The next phase is transplation which requires another 3-4 week hospitalization. The first step in transplantation is high dose chemotheraphy and radiation to kill the bone marrow and the diseased cells which are responsible for the leukemia. In the second step the stem cells collected in the first phase are returned to the body in a process similar to a blood transfusion. The stem cells grow back as healthy bone marrow.
Prognosis
It's a long and potentially dangerous process with risk of infection along with some pretty miserable side effects, but the prognosis is pretty good with an 80% success rate.
Decision Pending
Vicki hasn't reached a final decision on whether to proceed with this therapy. She wants to have some additional tests to find out what's going on with the breast cancer, maybe a PET scan to make sure the breast cancer hasn't returned. She will also need some tests to insure that she's a candidate for the transplant, one of which is the dreaded bone marrow biopsy.
Logistics
The treatment would be at UCSF where she would receive the best care available, but which would make it more difficult for all of us to visit as frequently and help keep her spirits up. We'll have to get creative about finding ways to deal with the more complicated logistics, but I know you smart folks are up to the challenge.
No More Chemo
The specialist recommends that Vicki not undergo additional chemotherapy. The drug she would receive is from a class of drugs called anthracyclines. There is a lifetime limit on these drugs due to their cumulative toxic effects, particularly on the heart. Between the chemo she received for breast cancer and her recent chemo for leukemia, the specialist believes she should not receive more of this particular drug.
So What's Next?
The speciliast has recommended an autologous stem cell transplantation (aw-TAH-luh-gus). Stem cells are a kind of generic cell, the Bisquick of the human body. Just like Bisquick can be made into biscuits, pancakes, or taco casserole (yuck), stem cells can develop into any type of specialized cell such as heart, brain, or blood. The basic idea of the transplant is that you kill the patient's diseased bone marrow, then give the patient her own stem cells which will grow back as healthy bone marrow.
The first stage is collection which requires a 3-4 week hospitalization. During this phase medications are administered which stimulate the bone marrow to release stem cells into the blood stream. These cells are collected and stored for later.
After the collection phase she would go home for a month.
The next phase is transplation which requires another 3-4 week hospitalization. The first step in transplantation is high dose chemotheraphy and radiation to kill the bone marrow and the diseased cells which are responsible for the leukemia. In the second step the stem cells collected in the first phase are returned to the body in a process similar to a blood transfusion. The stem cells grow back as healthy bone marrow.
Prognosis
It's a long and potentially dangerous process with risk of infection along with some pretty miserable side effects, but the prognosis is pretty good with an 80% success rate.
Decision Pending
Vicki hasn't reached a final decision on whether to proceed with this therapy. She wants to have some additional tests to find out what's going on with the breast cancer, maybe a PET scan to make sure the breast cancer hasn't returned. She will also need some tests to insure that she's a candidate for the transplant, one of which is the dreaded bone marrow biopsy.
Logistics
The treatment would be at UCSF where she would receive the best care available, but which would make it more difficult for all of us to visit as frequently and help keep her spirits up. We'll have to get creative about finding ways to deal with the more complicated logistics, but I know you smart folks are up to the challenge.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Follow, Subscribe
Blogspot has added some new features: Followers and Subscribers. I've put links to both on the right side of the page.
Follower
If you sign up as a follower of this blog you'll be able to see a list of all the blogs you follow when you log in. You can also see other followers and public information from their profiles so you can get to know other members of our village
Subscribe
I haven't tried this yet, but supposedly you can use it to feed posts from the blog to various services like your e-mail account. Try it out and let us know how it works.
I've put links to both
Follower
If you sign up as a follower of this blog you'll be able to see a list of all the blogs you follow when you log in. You can also see other followers and public information from their profiles so you can get to know other members of our village
Subscribe
I haven't tried this yet, but supposedly you can use it to feed posts from the blog to various services like your e-mail account. Try it out and let us know how it works.
I've put links to both
The Jenny Hat - Blondes Have More Fun
Another serious knitter in the house, Jenny M. models this hat she made she made from her own original design. The final version has a pair of little purple flowers that sit over the right ear. Vicki always wanted to be a blonde.
The Lisa Hat
My friend Lisa W. is a knitter supreme. She made up this very soft number with a cute furry contrast band.
No News is Good News
V. has been home for two weeks now. The first week rough due to a medication that was causing constant, exteme nausea. Fortunately her blood counts came up enough that she could discontinue that medication. Since then she's been growing in physical stamina and emotional strength every day.
V. will be referred to a specialist at UCSF who will help decide which chemo regimine to do next. Her oncologist is not in a big hurry to start the next batch of chemo, but would rather do it sooner than later. V. is ready to go for it, hoping not to be quite so ill this time since she's starting out stronger than the last time. She said that the sooner she does this, the sooner she can get on with her life, which I think is a good way to think of it.
V. will be referred to a specialist at UCSF who will help decide which chemo regimine to do next. Her oncologist is not in a big hurry to start the next batch of chemo, but would rather do it sooner than later. V. is ready to go for it, hoping not to be quite so ill this time since she's starting out stronger than the last time. She said that the sooner she does this, the sooner she can get on with her life, which I think is a good way to think of it.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Going Home
This morning I got the best news we've all heard in many weeks; Vicki is going home. She called me this morning to give me the good news. Jack was packing up as we talked and they are going to get out of there ASAP. Vicki sounded weak and tired, but happy. She didn't rest well last night because she knew she might get to go home today. She's looking forward to getting home for some puppy love and a good rest.
What's Next?
The current plan is for her to be readmitted to the hospital for more chemo in a couple of weeks. The oncologist is looking at other chemo options which might allow her to be treated as an out patient. We will hope and pray that this comes to pass.
Gratitude
Vicki has expressed the intent to spend her time at home as joyfully as possible and not to let worries about what comes next to spoil this gift. Let's all join her in a moment of gratitude and hope. All we have is this moment. If you find your self safe, happy, and free from fear in this moment take a deep breath and do whatever form of gratitude practice your religious and cultural traditions proscribe. For those without a tradition I highly recommend the Snoopy "happy dance" done outside under the sun and sky.
What's Next?
The current plan is for her to be readmitted to the hospital for more chemo in a couple of weeks. The oncologist is looking at other chemo options which might allow her to be treated as an out patient. We will hope and pray that this comes to pass.
Gratitude
Vicki has expressed the intent to spend her time at home as joyfully as possible and not to let worries about what comes next to spoil this gift. Let's all join her in a moment of gratitude and hope. All we have is this moment. If you find your self safe, happy, and free from fear in this moment take a deep breath and do whatever form of gratitude practice your religious and cultural traditions proscribe. For those without a tradition I highly recommend the Snoopy "happy dance" done outside under the sun and sky.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Not Much News
I'm not getting a lot of news from Vicki and Jack and have not been able to visit much lately, so I don't have much to report. I paid brief visit to the hospital this morning and found Vicki having a rough time of it. The infection in her jaw and mouth seems to be healing well and she wasn't needing any pain medication while I was there, but she's wanting very badly to go home and is unhappy about the prospect of having to go back to the hospital in just a couple of weeks.
They are still tinkering with V's blood pressure medication and the oncologist wants V's white blood cell count to come up just a little more before she can go home. While I was visiting the hospitalist physician came in to discuss how things are going and said that the oncologist might be ready to release V in just a couple of days.
They are still tinkering with V's blood pressure medication and the oncologist wants V's white blood cell count to come up just a little more before she can go home. While I was visiting the hospitalist physician came in to discuss how things are going and said that the oncologist might be ready to release V in just a couple of days.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Day 30: Feeling No Pain
I had a nice phone chat with Vicki today. Her night nurse on the telemetry unit was so concerned about Vicki's pain that she called the doctors to change the orders for pain medication; instead of having medication available every so many hours on Vicki's request, the nurses are now under orders to explicitly offer the pain medication. Vicki said this has helped tremendously. Between the medications and the general disorientation of being in the hospital she sometimes isn't sure whether it's eight in the morning or evening, so doesn't know when to ask for more medication. Now that it's being offered at regular intervals she's more comfortable and she's looking forward to going back to the oncology unit where she knows the nursing staff and can have visitors.
Jack developed a rash in reaction to one of his medications so had to see the doctor for adjustments as well as something to treat the rash.
Jack developed a rash in reaction to one of his medications so had to see the doctor for adjustments as well as something to treat the rash.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Thursday Improvement
After a long night on the I.C.U. where it's hard to rest because of the constant activity and noise, Vicki was moved to the telemetry unit where they are able to continually monitor her blood pressure. She had a CAT scan today to get a more specific diagnosis on the infection which started as a mouth sore, but may have entered a salivary gland The final results aren't in yet, but Vicki said the swelling has gone down a bit and it seems better.
I had a quick phone call from her this afternoon in which she sounded tired, but O.K. My general feeling after our conversation was one of relief, which I think says it all.
She said that she heard she would be moved back to a regular room on her usual nursing floor tomorrow.
I had a quick phone call from her this afternoon in which she sounded tired, but O.K. My general feeling after our conversation was one of relief, which I think says it all.
She said that she heard she would be moved back to a regular room on her usual nursing floor tomorrow.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
A Temporary Set Back
Vicki had some more problems with low blood pressure today so she has been moved to the intensive care unit where she can be monitored more carefully. She's also developed some infections which are giving her trouble. One is from a mouth sore, a typical side effect of chemo, which has spread and left her whole cheek and jaw inflamed and sore.
Obviously the plan to go home tomorrow will not come to pass, which is terribly disappointing.
Obviously the plan to go home tomorrow will not come to pass, which is terribly disappointing.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Updates
Happy Birthday #7 and Going to Rehab (not *that* kind)
We celebrated the seven year anniversary Jack's transplant on Saturday the 6th. Monday he started cardiac rehab which he will attend three days a week at the same location where Vicki is hospitalized.
No More Neutropenia
Yesterday Vicki was declared no longer neutropenic. This means that her white blood cell counts are up, up, up. They are not normal yet, but they no longer dangerously low which leaves her extremely vulnerable to infection. Dr. G, Vic's oncologist known by many as god (lowercase g) is predicting her discharge as early as Thursday.
What's Next? The Long Haul
Miss Vicki Will spend 2-3 weeks at Villa McF before returning to the hospital, where they may have to name a wing after V & J (or at least their insurance company)! She will spend another 20-30 days living the spa lifestyle in the hospital and then return home for another break. Depending on how it all goes, she might need to return for a third 20-30 day stay. Get out your calendar and do the math; we're in for a long haul here.
We celebrated the seven year anniversary Jack's transplant on Saturday the 6th. Monday he started cardiac rehab which he will attend three days a week at the same location where Vicki is hospitalized.
No More Neutropenia
Yesterday Vicki was declared no longer neutropenic. This means that her white blood cell counts are up, up, up. They are not normal yet, but they no longer dangerously low which leaves her extremely vulnerable to infection. Dr. G, Vic's oncologist known by many as god (lowercase g) is predicting her discharge as early as Thursday.
What's Next? The Long Haul
Miss Vicki Will spend 2-3 weeks at Villa McF before returning to the hospital, where they may have to name a wing after V & J (or at least their insurance company)! She will spend another 20-30 days living the spa lifestyle in the hospital and then return home for another break. Depending on how it all goes, she might need to return for a third 20-30 day stay. Get out your calendar and do the math; we're in for a long haul here.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Dog Days
No More IV
Miss Vicki got untethered earlier this week; she's no longer receiving continuous intravenous fluids so she's not constantly hooked to the IV pump. This makes it much easier to get out of bed to use the shower and restroom. The medical team is encouraging her to get up and walk around, although since she's very weak this is hard for her.
No More Royal Suite
On Thursday night Vicki was moved to another room. She's still in a private room for infection control reasons, but this room is smaller and doesn't have a view of the trees like her old room. When your whole world is a tiny hospital room, a change like this can really upset the apple cart.
Doggie Love
Today Vicki gets a very special treat, a visit from Phineas and Leo. She has to get done up in a mask and gloves and all kinds of protective gear. Licking is strictly forbidden*.
* The doctor probably meant the boys are not permitted to lick her, but the other way around is forbidden as well.
Miss Vicki got untethered earlier this week; she's no longer receiving continuous intravenous fluids so she's not constantly hooked to the IV pump. This makes it much easier to get out of bed to use the shower and restroom. The medical team is encouraging her to get up and walk around, although since she's very weak this is hard for her.
No More Royal Suite
On Thursday night Vicki was moved to another room. She's still in a private room for infection control reasons, but this room is smaller and doesn't have a view of the trees like her old room. When your whole world is a tiny hospital room, a change like this can really upset the apple cart.
Doggie Love
Today Vicki gets a very special treat, a visit from Phineas and Leo. She has to get done up in a mask and gloves and all kinds of protective gear. Licking is strictly forbidden*.
* The doctor probably meant the boys are not permitted to lick her, but the other way around is forbidden as well.
Miss Daisy Drives
Jack has gotten the O.K. to start driving again. This is a major step, one that will give him a lot more flexibility and remove a layer of complication and stress.
Way to go Jack.
Special thanks to everybody who volunteered to drive.
Way to go Jack.
Special thanks to everybody who volunteered to drive.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Medical Updates - The Waiting Game
Waiting
Vicki's daily infusions of chemotherapy ended last Monday afternoon and we're waiting for her bone marrow to start producing blood cells. It'll probably be another week before we start to see her blood counts rise on their own. In the meantime she continues to receive platelets every couple of days and today the doctor talked about giving her a transfusion of whole blood. She always feels more energy after a transfusion.
Juggling
Vicki continues to receive an oral chemotherapy drug twice a day and will continue to need it for up to two years. She has had an assortment of symptoms due to side effects of the chemo, drug interactions, and lingering diverticulitis. It's a real juggling act for the medical team to give her an appropriate combination of antibiotics, blood pressure regulators, and pain relief on top of the chemo drug, but they seem to be doing a pretty good job of keeping her stable and reasonably comfortable.
She's weak and tired most of the time, sometimes in pain or else loopy from pain drugs. She does get up to use the shower and restroom, but spends the rest of the day in bed enjoying visitors, watching television, surfing the 'net, and making phone calls.
What's Next?
Once her blood counts rise to a level where it is safe for her to go home, she'll be discharged. At this point her job will be to recover sufficiently to return to the hospital for another round of treatment just like this one. The timing depends on a lot of variables so it's hard to say when this will all take place.
Jack
Jack continues to improve. He's started taking the dogs out for walks and is doing fine on his own at home. He spends every day at the hospital with Vicki, resting on the cot in her room when he can.
Vicki's daily infusions of chemotherapy ended last Monday afternoon and we're waiting for her bone marrow to start producing blood cells. It'll probably be another week before we start to see her blood counts rise on their own. In the meantime she continues to receive platelets every couple of days and today the doctor talked about giving her a transfusion of whole blood. She always feels more energy after a transfusion.
Juggling
Vicki continues to receive an oral chemotherapy drug twice a day and will continue to need it for up to two years. She has had an assortment of symptoms due to side effects of the chemo, drug interactions, and lingering diverticulitis. It's a real juggling act for the medical team to give her an appropriate combination of antibiotics, blood pressure regulators, and pain relief on top of the chemo drug, but they seem to be doing a pretty good job of keeping her stable and reasonably comfortable.
She's weak and tired most of the time, sometimes in pain or else loopy from pain drugs. She does get up to use the shower and restroom, but spends the rest of the day in bed enjoying visitors, watching television, surfing the 'net, and making phone calls.
What's Next?
Once her blood counts rise to a level where it is safe for her to go home, she'll be discharged. At this point her job will be to recover sufficiently to return to the hospital for another round of treatment just like this one. The timing depends on a lot of variables so it's hard to say when this will all take place.
Jack
Jack continues to improve. He's started taking the dogs out for walks and is doing fine on his own at home. He spends every day at the hospital with Vicki, resting on the cot in her room when he can.
A Gentle Suggestion
Your calls and concern are appreciated so very much; one of Vicki's concerns has been keeping track of all the people she wants to thank when she's feeling better. Many days in the hospital are long and boring* so a phone chat can really help the day go by. (*and believe me, we pray for boring days)
May I just gently and respectfully say that lengthy conversations about the medical details of their conditions, treatments, and prognoses are a bit taxing for V & J. Things change rapidly and it's all a little overwhelming, especially for Vicki who is receiving some very effective pain relief (translation: high most of the time). It's not a taboo topic; we understand that this is a genuinely well-meant way of expressing interest and concern. I'd just say that if you could limit this portion of the conversation to a few minutes then move on to other topics it sure would be appreciated.
Your blogger will try to do a better job of posting medical updates that keep you sufficiently informed while giving V & J their privacy.
And please, if anybody takes offense to this suggestion, this is a case where you can shoot the messenger.
P.S.
I was talking this over with another member of the village and came up with a handy phrase: "Is it O.K. to talk about this now or would you rather change the subject for a while?" This will let V & J take the lead and talk as much or as little as they feel comfortable, which will probably change depending on their energy level and what's going on at the time.
May I just gently and respectfully say that lengthy conversations about the medical details of their conditions, treatments, and prognoses are a bit taxing for V & J. Things change rapidly and it's all a little overwhelming, especially for Vicki who is receiving some very effective pain relief (translation: high most of the time). It's not a taboo topic; we understand that this is a genuinely well-meant way of expressing interest and concern. I'd just say that if you could limit this portion of the conversation to a few minutes then move on to other topics it sure would be appreciated.
Your blogger will try to do a better job of posting medical updates that keep you sufficiently informed while giving V & J their privacy.
And please, if anybody takes offense to this suggestion, this is a case where you can shoot the messenger.
P.S.
I was talking this over with another member of the village and came up with a handy phrase: "Is it O.K. to talk about this now or would you rather change the subject for a while?" This will let V & J take the lead and talk as much or as little as they feel comfortable, which will probably change depending on their energy level and what's going on at the time.
About Commenting
We've received some feedback that folks are having trouble leaving comments on the blog. This post contains some tips which might help.
Step 1: Click the Comments Link
There's a link at the bottom of each post which shows the number of comments for that post. Click that link to add your own comment.
Step 2: Compose Your Comment
Nothing fancy here, just type your message.
Step 3: Word Verification
If you are not logged in you will see a picture of a some letters and numbers in distorted text. You must type these exact letters and numbers in the word verification field.
This is a security feature which helps protect the blog from spam and other inappropriate comments. It does not appear if you are already logged in.
Step 4: Choose Your Identity
If you are not logged in, enter your Google userid and password.
For safety reasons, this blog does not permit anonymous comments; you must be a registered member of Google. If you are not registered, click the "sign up here" link. Google userids are free.
Step 5: Publish Your Comments
You aren't done until you click the orange Publish button. When you've completed this step you'll receive a confirmation message that your comment has been posted.
Step 1: Click the Comments Link
There's a link at the bottom of each post which shows the number of comments for that post. Click that link to add your own comment.
Step 2: Compose Your Comment
Nothing fancy here, just type your message.
Step 3: Word Verification
If you are not logged in you will see a picture of a some letters and numbers in distorted text. You must type these exact letters and numbers in the word verification field.
This is a security feature which helps protect the blog from spam and other inappropriate comments. It does not appear if you are already logged in.
Step 4: Choose Your Identity
If you are not logged in, enter your Google userid and password.
For safety reasons, this blog does not permit anonymous comments; you must be a registered member of Google. If you are not registered, click the "sign up here" link. Google userids are free.
Step 5: Publish Your Comments
You aren't done until you click the orange Publish button. When you've completed this step you'll receive a confirmation message that your comment has been posted.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Uncle Keith
This morning Vicki and Jack got the sad news that Vicki's Uncle Keith had passed away. Keith had been in declining health for some time and hospitalized for the last several weeks.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones, especially Cindy who loved and cared for him so long and so well.
All's Well, Pretty Much
I went to the hospital for several hours on Saturday to see Vicki. She seems pretty stable and it not suffering any side effects except for a rash she developed a couple of days ago. They're attributing it to the antibiotic they've had her on for her diverticulitis and so they took her off it. So far so good as she's had no more gut pains. Hopefully the diverticulitis has been knocked out for the time being. They're hoping that with the elimination of the antibiotic the rash will subside and fade away.
Other than that, she's very tired and run down. That's to be expected as she tries to build her blood cells back up. They were going to give her some more platelets after I left which usually makes her feel somewhat better.
Jack improves little by little every day. He has received some paper work from the Cardiac Rehab folks and once he fills it out, he should be able to start the program. His heart surgeon did not give him the go-ahead to start driving again but next Wednesday, he'll be four weeks post-op and that's when most people get the okay. He plans to pose the question again at that time.
Other than that, she's very tired and run down. That's to be expected as she tries to build her blood cells back up. They were going to give her some more platelets after I left which usually makes her feel somewhat better.
Jack improves little by little every day. He has received some paper work from the Cardiac Rehab folks and once he fills it out, he should be able to start the program. His heart surgeon did not give him the go-ahead to start driving again but next Wednesday, he'll be four weeks post-op and that's when most people get the okay. He plans to pose the question again at that time.
Friday, August 29, 2008
What's Up with Vicki and Jack?
Well, I'm not sure. I haven't been able to get over to the hospital in the last two days and Vicki and I have been playing phone tag. I think if there'd been any back sliding I would have heard about it.
Tomorrow, I'm going to spend a good deal of time at the hospital so you can depend on an update.
Tomorrow, I'm going to spend a good deal of time at the hospital so you can depend on an update.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Allelujah!
I don't usually post until later in the day but the news is too good to wait. After we left the hospital last night, our Vicki got in touch with a friend of hers (another Vicky) who's been an oncology nurse for many years. Afterwards, Vicky called our Vicki's oncologist and talked to him about what had been going on. As a result, Vicki's pain medication was switched from morphine to dilaudid and she's also taking Xanax for anxiety.
When I talked to Jack this morning, he said Vicki had gotten a good night's sleep without interruption from pain. She woke up and had breakfast and is feeling infinitely better. Her BP at 11 am was 123/72 and her temperature was 97.3 And here's the most telling sign: she's ordering people around and once again making lists for Jack (although he said she's now started a list for me, too).
I know that I feel better, Jack feels better (he even went out for a walk) and most importantly, Vicki feels better.
Thank you Vicky!
When I talked to Jack this morning, he said Vicki had gotten a good night's sleep without interruption from pain. She woke up and had breakfast and is feeling infinitely better. Her BP at 11 am was 123/72 and her temperature was 97.3 And here's the most telling sign: she's ordering people around and once again making lists for Jack (although he said she's now started a list for me, too).
I know that I feel better, Jack feels better (he even went out for a walk) and most importantly, Vicki feels better.
Thank you Vicky!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Bad Day for Vicki
Apparently, the nausea and headache started fairly early in the morning to the point where one of her doctors ordered a head CT (results unknown as yet). She was somewhat better and able to eat lunch. However, after lunch the headaches came back with a vengence. They need to keep an eye on her blood pressure to make sure it's not too high and not too low when they give her pain medication. Mid afternoon they did her morphine (which makes a big difference about 15 minutes after it's administered) and some platelets. By about 4 pm she was much improved and she, Jack and I watched some "Best of Johnny Carson" videos and laughed like fools. She was about to have dinner when we left tonight and I hope she has a good night.
Say extra prayers tonight, please.
Say extra prayers tonight, please.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Vicki and Jack Updates
Vicki
Yes, the last of the chemo bags is gone but Vicki continues to get antibiotics and morphine for her diverticulitis. She's been seen by a cardiologist for her blood pressure. They're experimenting with the doses. It's a delicate balance between keeping her blood pressure down but not letting it drop too low. We'll just have to see how things go.
Jack
He had his first post-op appointment with his cardiologist; well, actually he saw a Physician's Assistant. His heart and lungs sound good though they're upping his beta blocker a bit since his heart rate was a little higher than they'd like it to be. His chest wall around his incision looks good and stable so the PA is going to get the ball rolling on Cardiac Rehab for him. Jack is really looking forward to that.
The other pressing questions are (1) when can he get back in the saddle again [i.e. start driving] and (2) is it okay for him to begin walking the dogs, Phin and Leo, again. It turns out that that decision is up to his surgeon but the PA thought that most likely Jack will get the okay to resume both. I think the inability to drive has been one of Jack's biggest frustrations.
So keep the good thoughts going!
Yes, the last of the chemo bags is gone but Vicki continues to get antibiotics and morphine for her diverticulitis. She's been seen by a cardiologist for her blood pressure. They're experimenting with the doses. It's a delicate balance between keeping her blood pressure down but not letting it drop too low. We'll just have to see how things go.
Jack
He had his first post-op appointment with his cardiologist; well, actually he saw a Physician's Assistant. His heart and lungs sound good though they're upping his beta blocker a bit since his heart rate was a little higher than they'd like it to be. His chest wall around his incision looks good and stable so the PA is going to get the ball rolling on Cardiac Rehab for him. Jack is really looking forward to that.
The other pressing questions are (1) when can he get back in the saddle again [i.e. start driving] and (2) is it okay for him to begin walking the dogs, Phin and Leo, again. It turns out that that decision is up to his surgeon but the PA thought that most likely Jack will get the okay to resume both. I think the inability to drive has been one of Jack's biggest frustrations.
So keep the good thoughts going!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Last Day of the 24/7 Chemo Bag
Yes, when the bag runs out tomorrow at about 1:30 pm, that will be the last of it.
I spoke to Vicki today at about 11 am and she sounded pretty perky. Unfortunately, she said that the pain she had today (from the diverticulitis) upon waking was the worst she'd had yet. In addition, her blood pressure was up again (224/118 or something like that). So they gave her morphine for the pain and I don't know what for the blood pressure but she was feeling much improved. Her oncologist is going to have a cardiologist see her in an attempt to figure out the blood pressure problem.
Another friend dropped by to see her today and says that after tomorrow, Vicki will have a couple of weeks' break in order for her white and red cells to grow and multiply. She should be feeling better during this time, and the diverticulitis should clear up. The oncologist said that she would be in the hospital for this time period. The goal is to see new good cell growth and maturity so that they can "consolidate" the very few disabled cells that will be mopped up by another chemo course of some type some time after that.
I'm going to take Jack to his first post-op appointment with his cardiologist tomorrow. Vicki wants me in the room, taking notes, asking questions, etc. I'm not sure how Jack's feeling about that but you know how "persuasive" Vicki can be. Besides, it's probably a good idea. My husband had a triple bypass in 2000 so I kind of know the drill.
Keep good thoughts!
I spoke to Vicki today at about 11 am and she sounded pretty perky. Unfortunately, she said that the pain she had today (from the diverticulitis) upon waking was the worst she'd had yet. In addition, her blood pressure was up again (224/118 or something like that). So they gave her morphine for the pain and I don't know what for the blood pressure but she was feeling much improved. Her oncologist is going to have a cardiologist see her in an attempt to figure out the blood pressure problem.
Another friend dropped by to see her today and says that after tomorrow, Vicki will have a couple of weeks' break in order for her white and red cells to grow and multiply. She should be feeling better during this time, and the diverticulitis should clear up. The oncologist said that she would be in the hospital for this time period. The goal is to see new good cell growth and maturity so that they can "consolidate" the very few disabled cells that will be mopped up by another chemo course of some type some time after that.
I'm going to take Jack to his first post-op appointment with his cardiologist tomorrow. Vicki wants me in the room, taking notes, asking questions, etc. I'm not sure how Jack's feeling about that but you know how "persuasive" Vicki can be. Besides, it's probably a good idea. My husband had a triple bypass in 2000 so I kind of know the drill.
Keep good thoughts!
Saturday, August 23, 2008
No More Bad Hair Days...
Well, she did it. Vicki had her hair all shaved off yesterday evening. I haven't seen it but she's totally unphased about the whole thing.
Today was not such a bad day. Apparently, the nurses have kind of a routine going so that when Vicki wakes up, they give her the additional chemo drugs, followed by anti-nausea drugs, followed by antibiotics and pain medication for the diverticulitis. Jack said he arrived at the hospital at about 11 am today and after Vicki had lunch, she slept until about 5 pm at which point Jack left to go home...just your typical married couple.
We're looking forward to Monday when the chemo drugs stop and Vicki can concentrate all her efforts on building herself back up so she can go home.
Today was not such a bad day. Apparently, the nurses have kind of a routine going so that when Vicki wakes up, they give her the additional chemo drugs, followed by anti-nausea drugs, followed by antibiotics and pain medication for the diverticulitis. Jack said he arrived at the hospital at about 11 am today and after Vicki had lunch, she slept until about 5 pm at which point Jack left to go home...just your typical married couple.
We're looking forward to Monday when the chemo drugs stop and Vicki can concentrate all her efforts on building herself back up so she can go home.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Pain, Bad; Pain Medication, Good!
Vicki got off to a rough start this morning. She was nauseous, and in quite a bit of pain from a bout of diverticulitis that seems to have come on (like she really needed something else on top of the leukemia). However, they've got her on a strong antibiotic and pain meds for the diverticulitis and she's a lot more comfortable. She's now about half way through her 7-days of chemo; they'll hang the last 24-hour chemo bag early Sunday afternoon and when that's gone she'll recuperate for about two weeks in the hospital.
Jack is looking better every day and is cognizant of his limitations. Of course, that doesn't stop Vicki from ordering him around. If it gets to be too much, he just retires to his cot by the window to rest. Vicki is bound and determined to have her head shaved before her hair starts falling out which they figure will happen on Monday. Monday is also the day that Jack has his first post-op visit with his cardiologist. I expect he'll get a good report.
Keep them both in your hearts and prayers!
Jack is looking better every day and is cognizant of his limitations. Of course, that doesn't stop Vicki from ordering him around. If it gets to be too much, he just retires to his cot by the window to rest. Vicki is bound and determined to have her head shaved before her hair starts falling out which they figure will happen on Monday. Monday is also the day that Jack has his first post-op visit with his cardiologist. I expect he'll get a good report.
Keep them both in your hearts and prayers!
Is it Just Me?
It seems as if everyone I know has at least one family member or close friend who is dealing with a serious medical condition.
I feel like I went to sleep and woke up in the middle of an episode of Grey's Anatomy except that the doctors are better groomed, nobody seems to be having any s*x, and I look more like Ben and Jerry's love child than Katherine Heigl.
Everyone - take care of yourselves out there.
I feel like I went to sleep and woke up in the middle of an episode of Grey's Anatomy except that the doctors are better groomed, nobody seems to be having any s*x, and I look more like Ben and Jerry's love child than Katherine Heigl.
Everyone - take care of yourselves out there.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
What Cancer Cannot Do
It cannot invade the soul,
suppress memories,
kill friendship,
destroy peace,
conquer the spirit,
shatter hope,
cripple love,
corrode faith,
steal eternal life,
silence courage.
suppress memories,
kill friendship,
destroy peace,
conquer the spirit,
shatter hope,
cripple love,
corrode faith,
steal eternal life,
silence courage.
Testing, Testing!
I'm just making sure that I'm able to post to the Vicki and Jack Blog. Sharon will be taking a much needed vacation beginning tomorrow for about a week and I'll be your Communications Guide while she's away. Of course, no one can really fill her shoes but I'll try.
Request: Hair Clippers
Does anybody in the Bay Area have hair clippers they could loan us? Vicki is expecting to lose her hair soon and would prefer to cut it off this weekend.
Update: Clippers, check, got 'em. Can't wait to go see Old Baldy on Friday morning.
Update: Clippers, check, got 'em. Can't wait to go see Old Baldy on Friday morning.
Chemo Day 4
Wednesday turned out to be a rough day. That nausea was tough going, eventually turned into lots of vomiting, a rough night and early morning. Now the sun is up and things are better. Our gal was looking spunky, had a twinkle in her eye, and was back to making lists and plans.
The doctor thinks the nausea will ease up now that there won't be anymore of the bad red chemo. Chemo side effects are expected in a couple of days; sore mouth, hair loss, maybe others, but we're expecting a nice routine day for Thursday.
The doctor thinks the nausea will ease up now that there won't be anymore of the bad red chemo. Chemo side effects are expected in a couple of days; sore mouth, hair loss, maybe others, but we're expecting a nice routine day for Thursday.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Chemo Day 3 - Nice and Stable
Vicki had some pretty good nausea going Tuesday night, but no vomitting. She wasn't up for much breakfast, but anti-nausea drugs helped and she had a decent lunch, mostly easy stuff like rice, pudding, and yogurt, but plenty of nutrition.
Her vitals are relatively stable and the chemotherapy is continuing. Today was the last day of the nasty red chemotherapy drug whose name I will mangle so I will not even try. She's pretty weak and tired, resting a lot more than the last few days. Between the chemo, pain meds, anti-nausea meds, blood pressure meds, and I don't even know what else, she's getting a bit fuzzy headed (stoned) and having some very vivid dreams (hallucinations). I have to admit that she had Jack and me giggling today and that I intend to give her a hard time about it when she's feeling better. (I'm a bad, bad person.)
She's been getting your cards and we've been taping them up on the wall at the foot of the bed where she can see them. We also decorated her room with pictures of Sea Ranch, which is a special place for her. She once told me that she feels most at peace there. We included some pictures of flowers to take the place of the real flowers she cannot have.
Her vitals are relatively stable and the chemotherapy is continuing. Today was the last day of the nasty red chemotherapy drug whose name I will mangle so I will not even try. She's pretty weak and tired, resting a lot more than the last few days. Between the chemo, pain meds, anti-nausea meds, blood pressure meds, and I don't even know what else, she's getting a bit fuzzy headed (stoned) and having some very vivid dreams (hallucinations). I have to admit that she had Jack and me giggling today and that I intend to give her a hard time about it when she's feeling better. (I'm a bad, bad person.)
She's been getting your cards and we've been taping them up on the wall at the foot of the bed where she can see them. We also decorated her room with pictures of Sea Ranch, which is a special place for her. She once told me that she feels most at peace there. We included some pictures of flowers to take the place of the real flowers she cannot have.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Thank You to Transportation Volunteers.
Jack's colleagues have been overwhelmingly generous in signing up to help with transportation. Some have recruited their family members to help and others have signed up for multiple shifts over the course of several days.
When I called Jack and told him about your generosity, I could hear the relief in his voice. He was eager to tell Vicki so she can stop worrying about this. This is going to be such a big help.
Thank you all!!!!
Update Wednesday August 20
I just published the final transportation schedule. Not only do we have a volunteer for every shift, in many cases a second person signed up as back up. What a great bunch of folks.
When I called Jack and told him about your generosity, I could hear the relief in his voice. He was eager to tell Vicki so she can stop worrying about this. This is going to be such a big help.
Thank you all!!!!
Update Wednesday August 20
I just published the final transportation schedule. Not only do we have a volunteer for every shift, in many cases a second person signed up as back up. What a great bunch of folks.
Chemo Day 2 - A Very Scary Morning
Everything is back on track now, but we had a big scare this morning; Vicki's blood pressure spiked very high which caused her a great deal of fear and discomfort. After some medication started to bring it back in line she felt quite a bit better, and resumed her campaign to get me to sell my condo and move to Clayton, making lists of books to be returned to the library, and checking e-mail - all at the same time.
Her blood pressure remained very high for several hours and there was some possibility of temporarily suspending the chemotherapy, but the medication finally kicked in as the morning progressed. By lunch time her blood pressure got down to an acceptable level and the doctors gave the O.K. to start the next batch of chemotherapy drugs. She will remain on the blood pressure medication while she's on chemo and the doctors say they don't expect another spike like she experienced this morning.
So far Vicki has only had a little bit of nausea. She had a full lunch and even got unhooked from her IVs long enough to take a nice shower and get into some clean jammies. We also learned that her white cell and platelet counts are up, which was an unexpected improvement.
Jack finally agreed to have a cot made up in Vicki's room and spent much of the morning horizontal. I'm not sure that he was exactly relaxing, but it's progress.
Her blood pressure remained very high for several hours and there was some possibility of temporarily suspending the chemotherapy, but the medication finally kicked in as the morning progressed. By lunch time her blood pressure got down to an acceptable level and the doctors gave the O.K. to start the next batch of chemotherapy drugs. She will remain on the blood pressure medication while she's on chemo and the doctors say they don't expect another spike like she experienced this morning.
So far Vicki has only had a little bit of nausea. She had a full lunch and even got unhooked from her IVs long enough to take a nice shower and get into some clean jammies. We also learned that her white cell and platelet counts are up, which was an unexpected improvement.
Jack finally agreed to have a cot made up in Vicki's room and spent much of the morning horizontal. I'm not sure that he was exactly relaxing, but it's progress.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Chemo Begins
Vicki's white blood cells are low, but holding steady. Her platelets dropped again, but that's to be expected so the doctor gave the OK to start chemotherapy this morning.
As usual, Princess Vicki was a real trouper. Would you believe she was on the phone cancelling an appointment with another doctor at the very moment Nurse Regina was administering one of the chemo drugs through an IV push? Talk about multi-tasking.
There are two chemotherapy drugs; one is administered daily and the other drips continuously. This will continue for seven days. The doctor has written orders for lots of anti-nausea drugs and other medications to keep her as comfortable as possible, but with her blood counts already low she tires very easily. She will probably receive another transfusion tomorrow to help keep her blood counts up while the chemo destroys both good and bad cells.
Jack was looking and feeling a lot perkier after his day off Sunday. After a busy morning killing cancer, Vicki had earned a good rest so sent Jack and his chauffeur home. Jack is doing fine on his own at home, promising not to over do it which probably means he is still doing too much, just not as much as usual.
Support services are falling into place. A pet sitter is coming to take Leo and Phin out for daily walks and arrangements for housekeeping services are underway. In another day or two we should have transportation volunteers all scheduled.
Now all we have to do is get these two healthy!
As usual, Princess Vicki was a real trouper. Would you believe she was on the phone cancelling an appointment with another doctor at the very moment Nurse Regina was administering one of the chemo drugs through an IV push? Talk about multi-tasking.
There are two chemotherapy drugs; one is administered daily and the other drips continuously. This will continue for seven days. The doctor has written orders for lots of anti-nausea drugs and other medications to keep her as comfortable as possible, but with her blood counts already low she tires very easily. She will probably receive another transfusion tomorrow to help keep her blood counts up while the chemo destroys both good and bad cells.
Jack was looking and feeling a lot perkier after his day off Sunday. After a busy morning killing cancer, Vicki had earned a good rest so sent Jack and his chauffeur home. Jack is doing fine on his own at home, promising not to over do it which probably means he is still doing too much, just not as much as usual.
Support services are falling into place. A pet sitter is coming to take Leo and Phin out for daily walks and arrangements for housekeeping services are underway. In another day or two we should have transportation volunteers all scheduled.
Now all we have to do is get these two healthy!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
The Calm Before the Storm
Vicki had a visitor in the morning, then was able to nap the rest of the day. She's received two transfusions and reports that these make her feel a lot more energetic. She also had an elevated temperature and blood pressure, but medication has brought those down.
Jack spent the day at home following orders to rest. Good Dog.
Even this blogger found some missing Z's on the living room couch.
Jack spent the day at home following orders to rest. Good Dog.
Even this blogger found some missing Z's on the living room couch.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Do You Sew, Knit, or Crochet?
If you're the crafty sort, start warming up your sewing machine, knitting needles, or crochet hooks. We don't know yet if Vicki will loose her hair with this chemotherapy, but if she does she requests soft chemo hats.
You can find some great patterns at Head Huggers Patterns. Please read about how much chemo caps can help cancer patients and especially the guidelines for fabrics and sizing at Charity Guide.
You can find some great patterns at Head Huggers Patterns. Please read about how much chemo caps can help cancer patients and especially the guidelines for fabrics and sizing at Charity Guide.
Post Your Comments
Vicki has her computer in the hospital. As long as she is feeling well enough she will be checking the blog for comments. We gave her access to create her own posts too, but reserve the right to revoke permission at any time if she gets up to any funny business.
The Diagnosis - Bringing You All Up to Date
While Jack was hospitalized for cardiac by-pass surgery we became increasingly concerned about the large numbers of unexplained bruises on Vicki's arms and legs. A blood test showed that all three of her blood cell types (red cells, white cells, and platelets) were abnormally low.
Jack returned home from the hospital last Sunday. On Tuesday morning Vicki had a bone marrow biopsy. A second blood test showed a further decrease in her blood cells. While waiting for the results of the biopsy her fatigue and bruising increased. Yet another blood test showed that her blood counts were continuing to decrease.
On Thursday evening she was admitted to the hospital. She received a preliminary diagnosis, which was confirmed on Friday. She has a form of leukemia called acute promyelocitic leukemia (APL). APL is caused by a specific translocation between parts of two chromosomes. This translocation prevents
myeloid cells from developing into mature white blood cells, leading to an abundance of abnormal, immature cells. The cancerous cells eventually crowd out the healthy blood cells needed for the body to function normally. Here's a link to an article on Wikipedia which will give you more information.
Treatment
On Friday Vicki began treatment with a substance that comes from vitamin A called all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). She has also received a transfusion of platelets and will likely receive more as her treatment continues. She will begin receiving chemotherapy on Monday and receive it daily for seven days. After receiving chemo she will need around two weeks to generate enough healthy blood cells. She will be hospitalized throughout this treatment.
Prognosis
This treatment is aggressive so the coming weeks will be rough, but according to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society APL "is the most curable form of AML" (acute myelocitic leukemia).
Although it's certainly not good news, we were relieved to learn that it is not metastatic breast cancer, which was our greatest fear. There is a small risk of developing this type of cancer as a result of some of the medications Vicki required to treat her breast cancer, but most cases of leukemia cannot be traced to a specific cause and Vicki's doctor says this is probably not related to her breast cancer treatment.
Jack returned home from the hospital last Sunday. On Tuesday morning Vicki had a bone marrow biopsy. A second blood test showed a further decrease in her blood cells. While waiting for the results of the biopsy her fatigue and bruising increased. Yet another blood test showed that her blood counts were continuing to decrease.
On Thursday evening she was admitted to the hospital. She received a preliminary diagnosis, which was confirmed on Friday. She has a form of leukemia called acute promyelocitic leukemia (APL). APL is caused by a specific translocation between parts of two chromosomes. This translocation prevents
myeloid cells from developing into mature white blood cells, leading to an abundance of abnormal, immature cells. The cancerous cells eventually crowd out the healthy blood cells needed for the body to function normally. Here's a link to an article on Wikipedia which will give you more information.
Treatment
On Friday Vicki began treatment with a substance that comes from vitamin A called all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). She has also received a transfusion of platelets and will likely receive more as her treatment continues. She will begin receiving chemotherapy on Monday and receive it daily for seven days. After receiving chemo she will need around two weeks to generate enough healthy blood cells. She will be hospitalized throughout this treatment.
Prognosis
This treatment is aggressive so the coming weeks will be rough, but according to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society APL "is the most curable form of AML" (acute myelocitic leukemia).
Although it's certainly not good news, we were relieved to learn that it is not metastatic breast cancer, which was our greatest fear. There is a small risk of developing this type of cancer as a result of some of the medications Vicki required to treat her breast cancer, but most cases of leukemia cannot be traced to a specific cause and Vicki's doctor says this is probably not related to her breast cancer treatment.
IMPORTANT: No Petunias, No Plums, No Parsnips
We have learned that Vicki cannot receive gifts of fresh flowers, fruits, or vegetables. She is under infection control precautions so these items are not permitted. Sorry. : (
Vicki asked me to assure you that she'd be happy to accept gifts of cash, lottery tickets, or precious gems.
Vicki asked me to assure you that she'd be happy to accept gifts of cash, lottery tickets, or precious gems.
Getting Started
I've started this blog to help us all keep in touch and up to date with the latest information. I've left it open so you can all post comments of support and encouragement.
Safe and Courteous Blogging
This is a public web site which can be viewed by anyone on the Internet. Be careful not to post any personally identifiable information. Here are some recommendations:
Safe and Courteous Blogging
This is a public web site which can be viewed by anyone on the Internet. Be careful not to post any personally identifiable information. Here are some recommendations:
- Personal Information: Do not post hospital name or room number, last names, addresses, birth dates, phone numbers or other personal identification.
- E-mail Addresses: Do not use your work e-mail address. It's safest to use a free e-mail account from a service such as Google or Yahoo.
- No Really Bad News: God forbid, but if we have to share any really bad news, let's use the personal touch and call one another before posting.
- Be Gentle: We're all experiencing varying degrees of stress which means we're easily hurt. This is a place to be gentle, positive, and forgiving.
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