Hello family and friends, Happy Halloween! Sorry, I haven't updated you in a while, but no news, is indeed, good news. Dave received his results back from the bone marrow extraction several weeks ago and the results show he is still in complete response (remission). This is our first indication that the stem cell transplant was a success. I thought it was a no brainer because he went ino the stem cell transplant in complete response. But, I just learned that a fellow multiple myeloma patient's number actually went up after getting the stem cell transplant. Knowing this, makes me feel even more blessed for Dave's continued success. Our goal is to stay in remission as long as possible. There are so many patients trying different things to battle this incurable cancer. Some take an extremely agreesive approach with back-to-back stem cell transplants followed by several years on maintenace drugs. Others, choose to forego maintenace and wait to relapse before enduring another stem cell transplant or additional drug therapies. Studies are really mixed on both these approaches and it will possibly be years to prove that maintenance after stem cell transplantation increases life span. Individuals like Dave, who suffered from neuropathy due to Velcade (which is one of the drugs used in maintenance therapy), often prefer to take a break from the drugs until relapse.
This has truly been the most painful 13 months of my life. Each day I wake up and pray that I can give all the problems, loss, and heartache my family is going through to God. It is a struggle because I always want control and want to fix everything. I realize more than ever that I can not. Therefore, I pray for a tender and forgiving heart. I pray that I can say the right things, listen with an open-heart, and have strength when others need me most. Dear Lord, protect my family. Bless each and every one of them with your grace. Reveal yourself to them so that they can see and be filled with your unwavering love. Fill up the holes that make them empty and allow them see the love and truth that is before their eyes. Thank you Lord for the many gifts of healing you have given us.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Thursday, September 15, 2011
September 15, 2011
Hi family and friends, I know it has been a while since I've updated you on Dave's condition. I think, as a family, we've just been enjoying "living" in complete response and watching Dave recover. He is regaining his life... he is back to work...hair is growing. A matter of fact, he's sporting a pretty jazzy silver-fox goatee. I love it! Dave has good and bad days, but the good days are finally outweighing the bad day.
Yesterday, Dave had a bone marrow biopsy at his local oncologist. This will be our first true "results" since the stem cell transplant. He went into the transplant in complete response and we anticipate the results will show that he continues to be in complete response. This is part of the "re-staging" process. Dave goes to Stanford at the end of October to meet with his doctor for a check-up and hopefully to discuss what is next, if anything.
September holds a lot of signifigance for our family... it is an anniversary month of sorts. It was in September, 2010 that we found out that Dave has Multiple Myeloma. It's one of those days in your life that you never forget. Similar to historical events that occur and you say, "I know exactly where I was when I heard the news." Some of us remember where they were when they heard JFK was killed. Some of us remember where they were when Princess Diana died in a horrible car crash in Paris (okay, maybe just me!), and I imagine, all of us, remember where we were when we heard the horrible news that our country was being attacked by terrorist on September 11, 2001. But, for me, I can add "when I found out Dave had cancer" to my list.
When I think of celebrating a "year" in life, I think of celebrating birthdays or anniversaries- not a diagnosis of cancer! STUPID, POINTLESS, LIFE-ALTERING CANCER! I hate cancer! I hate it more today than I did a year ago. Why should I even acknowledge its grip on our lives? It's an invisible opponent that attempts to weaken our faith and take away our hope.
But, it hasn't... It hasn't broken our faith. And, it hasn't stolen our hope. So, HAPPY FRICKEN ANNIVERSARY CANCER. Here's to "kicking your ***"!
I tend to have a annoying habit of seeing both sides of coin no matter how bad things are. So, on the flip side:
1. Happy Anniversary to successfully fighting and beating down cancer.
2. Happy Anniversary to truly learning about the loving and compassionate hearts and spirits of our family and friends.
3. Happy Anniversary on being able to find faith and hope when things seem beyond our scope of understanding.
4. Happy Annivesary on a year of appreciation, of life, of love, of family, of friends, and of our most wonderful savior Jesus Christ. These most cherished of gifts that so often we take for granted.
Thank you to everyone for you love, prayer, and for lending a helping hand to Dave is both his personal life and his professional life.
Yesterday, Dave had a bone marrow biopsy at his local oncologist. This will be our first true "results" since the stem cell transplant. He went into the transplant in complete response and we anticipate the results will show that he continues to be in complete response. This is part of the "re-staging" process. Dave goes to Stanford at the end of October to meet with his doctor for a check-up and hopefully to discuss what is next, if anything.
September holds a lot of signifigance for our family... it is an anniversary month of sorts. It was in September, 2010 that we found out that Dave has Multiple Myeloma. It's one of those days in your life that you never forget. Similar to historical events that occur and you say, "I know exactly where I was when I heard the news." Some of us remember where they were when they heard JFK was killed. Some of us remember where they were when Princess Diana died in a horrible car crash in Paris (okay, maybe just me!), and I imagine, all of us, remember where we were when we heard the horrible news that our country was being attacked by terrorist on September 11, 2001. But, for me, I can add "when I found out Dave had cancer" to my list.
When I think of celebrating a "year" in life, I think of celebrating birthdays or anniversaries- not a diagnosis of cancer! STUPID, POINTLESS, LIFE-ALTERING CANCER! I hate cancer! I hate it more today than I did a year ago. Why should I even acknowledge its grip on our lives? It's an invisible opponent that attempts to weaken our faith and take away our hope.
But, it hasn't... It hasn't broken our faith. And, it hasn't stolen our hope. So, HAPPY FRICKEN ANNIVERSARY CANCER. Here's to "kicking your ***"!
I tend to have a annoying habit of seeing both sides of coin no matter how bad things are. So, on the flip side:
1. Happy Anniversary to successfully fighting and beating down cancer.
2. Happy Anniversary to truly learning about the loving and compassionate hearts and spirits of our family and friends.
3. Happy Anniversary on being able to find faith and hope when things seem beyond our scope of understanding.
4. Happy Annivesary on a year of appreciation, of life, of love, of family, of friends, and of our most wonderful savior Jesus Christ. These most cherished of gifts that so often we take for granted.
Thank you to everyone for you love, prayer, and for lending a helping hand to Dave is both his personal life and his professional life.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Dave Update-August 1, 2011
Hello family & friends, just a short update on Dave. We are now 58days post transplant. Each day, Dave is getting stronger. He has put on approximately 10 pounds and is getting some color back to his skin. And if you investigate closely, I believe a little peach fuzz is growing on his head...
He had an appointment on July 27 in Stanford to meet with his doctor. His big brother Steve drove along with him since my mom had to work. Thanks Steve! The appointment included labs and a discussion with his doctor. In terms of continuing care at Stanford, his doctor said he can do follow up appointment at his local oncologist. This is great news and eliminates the burden of having to drive 3 1/2 hours and back for a doctor's appointment. So far, all Dave's numbers look good. Dave asked the doctor what kind of "remission" he could expect. She gave a median of 2 years. Anotherwords, she doesn't know. Each patients is different and there is no way of predicting what the future holds. It's best to take things "one day at a time". But, Dave has been on the good side of luck ( I call it the grace of God) since getting this disease. I'm not sure what is next in terms of care. I believe Dave is leaning toward no maintenance therapy. I"m in support of this because, although recent research has proven maintenace therapy (using Revlimid or thalidomide after SCT, delays the progression of the disease, but don't prove patients live longer. The truth of the matter, the studies are too new to really tell the benefit. Nevertheless, maintenance therapy is becoming a standard following SCT (stem cell trasplant). To even make matters more confusing, additional international studies and data is showing possible secondary cancers utilizing Revlimid for maintenance. My vote is no and I believe this is Dave and even his Stanford doctor's vote as well. If Dave falls out of "remission" (complete response) he has other options such as an additional SCT (he has extra from his last harvest), maintenance chemos, and some very promising clinical trials.
The doctor will monitor his numbers regularly and probably in the next couple of months he will have another bone marrow biopsy for restaging.
I see a lot of the "old", and I mean, "pre-cancer" Dave lately. My husband, myself, and the kids went to Montana for a couple of weeks recently and when we returned we all went out for dinner for my mom's birthday. It was the same day Dave got back from Stanford. It was just fun. We talked, laughed, and just had fun. Of course, my mom and I were a bottle of wine in before we began, but.... it just seemed like "old times".
He still has fatigued days, but he's getting better every day. Dave, my mom, and our friend Donna went to church with Cory and I yesterday and I find it amazing how God works. The sermon for the day was on the book of Job. The sermon was basically about how we give praise to God when things are good, but question him when we are in crisis. I felt like it was a great message for what our family is going through and the importance of being faithful in good times as well as in bad.
Much love, Jeana.
He had an appointment on July 27 in Stanford to meet with his doctor. His big brother Steve drove along with him since my mom had to work. Thanks Steve! The appointment included labs and a discussion with his doctor. In terms of continuing care at Stanford, his doctor said he can do follow up appointment at his local oncologist. This is great news and eliminates the burden of having to drive 3 1/2 hours and back for a doctor's appointment. So far, all Dave's numbers look good. Dave asked the doctor what kind of "remission" he could expect. She gave a median of 2 years. Anotherwords, she doesn't know. Each patients is different and there is no way of predicting what the future holds. It's best to take things "one day at a time". But, Dave has been on the good side of luck ( I call it the grace of God) since getting this disease. I'm not sure what is next in terms of care. I believe Dave is leaning toward no maintenance therapy. I"m in support of this because, although recent research has proven maintenace therapy (using Revlimid or thalidomide after SCT, delays the progression of the disease, but don't prove patients live longer. The truth of the matter, the studies are too new to really tell the benefit. Nevertheless, maintenance therapy is becoming a standard following SCT (stem cell trasplant). To even make matters more confusing, additional international studies and data is showing possible secondary cancers utilizing Revlimid for maintenance. My vote is no and I believe this is Dave and even his Stanford doctor's vote as well. If Dave falls out of "remission" (complete response) he has other options such as an additional SCT (he has extra from his last harvest), maintenance chemos, and some very promising clinical trials.
I see a lot of the "old", and I mean, "pre-cancer" Dave lately. My husband, myself, and the kids went to Montana for a couple of weeks recently and when we returned we all went out for dinner for my mom's birthday. It was the same day Dave got back from Stanford. It was just fun. We talked, laughed, and just had fun. Of course, my mom and I were a bottle of wine in before we began, but.... it just seemed like "old times".
He still has fatigued days, but he's getting better every day. Dave, my mom, and our friend Donna went to church with Cory and I yesterday and I find it amazing how God works. The sermon for the day was on the book of Job. The sermon was basically about how we give praise to God when things are good, but question him when we are in crisis. I felt like it was a great message for what our family is going through and the importance of being faithful in good times as well as in bad.
Much love, Jeana.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Dave Update-July 12, 2011
Hello family and friends, sorry for the lapse in blogging, but we've been just "living life". I follow quite a few blogs from Multiple Myeloma patients and it's weird when the disease gets first introduced to you, you get nervous when a week goes by without any updates. But, what I've learned is that when the blogging stops happening so frequently, the living has started to return to some form of normalcy. I guess that is what is happening with our family to some extent. We are enjoying not having chemo, not being in the hospital, and not having to take "as many" pills. Dave is basically concentrating on getting back into fighting shape after 10 months of continuous treatment. He continues to have good days and then a "fatigue" day, but has started walking each morning. He is trying to get used to his decreased appetite and picky (more than his normal picky) taste buds. I've read his taste buds will eventually return to normal. He has lost about 20 pounds, but other than muscle loss I think he looks pretty darn good. Cory, myself, and the kids went over for a barbeque on Saturday night and really had an wonderful time. I think this was a "good" day for Dave and we all just basked in it. He even took a little dip in the pool. Just sitting in it, not emercing his entire body. For some reason, I guess you are not supposed to swim, golf, garden, etc. for a year after transplant. It has to do with bacteria and its affect on a compromised immune system. Seriously, why don't they take all the fun away? I've done a lot of research and I've seen little on this. I know a few MM patients that enjoy wine. Whatever... simple pleasures like taking a dip in the water to cool off has so much more meaning when someone tries to take it away from you.
We are now 37 days post transplant and Dave will go back to Stanford at the end of the month for blood work. His last appointment 2 weeks ago showed his number were good. We are not sure what is next in terms of maintenance. Some continue on a maintenace program of small doses of chemo and some chose not to until relapse. I'm not sure what Dave's decision will be, but either way we are enjoying our time of complete response!
Much love, Jeana
We are now 37 days post transplant and Dave will go back to Stanford at the end of the month for blood work. His last appointment 2 weeks ago showed his number were good. We are not sure what is next in terms of maintenance. Some continue on a maintenace program of small doses of chemo and some chose not to until relapse. I'm not sure what Dave's decision will be, but either way we are enjoying our time of complete response!
Much love, Jeana
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Dave Update-June 28, 2011
Hi there family and friends, today marks 25 days post transplant and day 6 back at home for Dave. My mom and Dave returned home last Wednesday and the kids and I were there to welcome them (whether they liked it or not). I think they were shocked by the heat, but still thrilled to be back with there favorites. No, not me or the kids...but Dexter and Shelby (their cats)! It does kind of make them sound like those weird cat people, huh? A matter of fact, my kids have so many grandparents (the gift of coming from divorced parents) that when they were young they started differentiating them by characteristics that made sense to them. Can you guess what they call mom and Dave? You guessed it! Cat Grandma and Cat Grandpa! Ya, it's official they are weird cat people. You almost can picture a house filled with 100's of cats with matching litter boxes... I digress.
Since being home, my mom has returned to work (hospitality instructor at SEE) and Dave has begun his job of recovering and allowing his brand new immune system to kick into gear. He has been extremely fatigued and says its hard to wake up in the morning. He's still struggling with his appetite and has had some aches and pains. This is very discouraging to him. I tell him this is normal, but I think his mind wants things to happen that his body is just not ready for. It really will take some time for Dave to regain his strength and start feeling like himself again. He will have good days and bad days. Most patients are still in the hospital 25 days post transplant! We have to give Dave a big whoop, whoop for his super hero status. He was supposed to go to Stanford for a check up tomorrow, but I think he was going to try and postpone it. He really is too tired to make a one day trip. I think they are going to try and reschedule for next week.
Keep our family in your prayer and say a special prayer for my grandfather who has been suffering from some health issues himself. Come on Callahans, what happened to the "Luck of the Irish?" (Definition: Some suggest "Luck of the Irish" means that the Irish are inherently lucky, and seem to be able to land on their feet when bad circumstances occur). Interesting choice of words... Don't cats "land on their feet?" Sorry, Dave. It couldn't be helped!
Since being home, my mom has returned to work (hospitality instructor at SEE) and Dave has begun his job of recovering and allowing his brand new immune system to kick into gear. He has been extremely fatigued and says its hard to wake up in the morning. He's still struggling with his appetite and has had some aches and pains. This is very discouraging to him. I tell him this is normal, but I think his mind wants things to happen that his body is just not ready for. It really will take some time for Dave to regain his strength and start feeling like himself again. He will have good days and bad days. Most patients are still in the hospital 25 days post transplant! We have to give Dave a big whoop, whoop for his super hero status. He was supposed to go to Stanford for a check up tomorrow, but I think he was going to try and postpone it. He really is too tired to make a one day trip. I think they are going to try and reschedule for next week.
Keep our family in your prayer and say a special prayer for my grandfather who has been suffering from some health issues himself. Come on Callahans, what happened to the "Luck of the Irish?" (Definition: Some suggest "Luck of the Irish" means that the Irish are inherently lucky, and seem to be able to land on their feet when bad circumstances occur). Interesting choice of words... Don't cats "land on their feet?" Sorry, Dave. It couldn't be helped!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
June 21, 2011
Hello family and friends, great news! Dave had his port (where they administered chemo and the transplant) removed yesterday. And do you know what that means? Well, it means he is done and the doctor's feel his numbers and progress is at a point where he can come home! So, Dave and my mom are coming home tomorrow! I'm so excited, but not even close to what they are feeling. They had the apartment paid until Saturday, but management allowed them a refund for the unused days! The news just keeps getting better. Not to mention, Dave has been released 2 1/2 weeks post transplant. This is very unusual and just shows how well Dave has done.
We had a great time with Dave and my mom this past weekend and we feel lucky we were able to experience a little bit of what they've been living. I made Dave take me to the hospital even though it was his day off. I know, I know, cruel, but I wanted to see what he's seen. The hospital is amazing. Dave was saying how he probably could have appreciate the architecture more had he not been there for treatment. Dave has lost some weight because he wasn't eating much from his stay in the hospital. Luckily when we got there he was having a little more of an appetite and was able to get a few good meals in. Dave and Cory watched golf while mom and I went to the mall. It was underwhelming and over-priced. I guess I wouldn't make a very good wealthy person because I could never justify spending $350 on a purse. If it's more than $40 I'm questioning my sanity. Later in the evening we toured the grounds of their huge apartment complex. The walking trails were amazing. The funniest part of the walk was when mom had to return to get something and had Dave hold her glass of wine. Yes, mom and I walk with wine. It's tradition (wink, wink). Dave has to wear this mask when out in public to protect him because of his compromised immune system. It's not like a surgical mask, more like a gas type mask. Maybe not quite as dramatic, but nevertheless, he's stand out. Dave, Cory, and I are waiting for mom and Dave is holding this glass of wine with his mask on when this walker walked by. I thought I was going to fall over with the look on this guys face. I even had to do a reinactment for everyone it was so funny. I guess it wasn't every day that you see a masked man holding a glass of wine.
We walked over to the club house on the property and hung out and visited on the balcony and then even played a foursome of pool. I don't want to brag, but I made the winning shot. Mind you, it was my only shot, but still....
We had a little glitch in our hotel reservations and at 9 at night after three glasses of wine had to search Palo Alto for a place to stay. Thanks a lot Priceline! We ended up at the Hooker Hut! Okay, the Travel Lodge, but it might has well been called...
It was all worth it to get to see my parents and be with Dave on Father's Day. Thank you to everyone for all your support. I saw the many cards they had displayed around the apartment. You are all so sweet, kind, and thoughtful. I'm so proud to call you our famiy and friends!.
Dave will have to return to Standford for a check up in early July. For now, he will need to rest and allow his body to reboot.
We had a great time with Dave and my mom this past weekend and we feel lucky we were able to experience a little bit of what they've been living. I made Dave take me to the hospital even though it was his day off. I know, I know, cruel, but I wanted to see what he's seen. The hospital is amazing. Dave was saying how he probably could have appreciate the architecture more had he not been there for treatment. Dave has lost some weight because he wasn't eating much from his stay in the hospital. Luckily when we got there he was having a little more of an appetite and was able to get a few good meals in. Dave and Cory watched golf while mom and I went to the mall. It was underwhelming and over-priced. I guess I wouldn't make a very good wealthy person because I could never justify spending $350 on a purse. If it's more than $40 I'm questioning my sanity. Later in the evening we toured the grounds of their huge apartment complex. The walking trails were amazing. The funniest part of the walk was when mom had to return to get something and had Dave hold her glass of wine. Yes, mom and I walk with wine. It's tradition (wink, wink). Dave has to wear this mask when out in public to protect him because of his compromised immune system. It's not like a surgical mask, more like a gas type mask. Maybe not quite as dramatic, but nevertheless, he's stand out. Dave, Cory, and I are waiting for mom and Dave is holding this glass of wine with his mask on when this walker walked by. I thought I was going to fall over with the look on this guys face. I even had to do a reinactment for everyone it was so funny. I guess it wasn't every day that you see a masked man holding a glass of wine.
We walked over to the club house on the property and hung out and visited on the balcony and then even played a foursome of pool. I don't want to brag, but I made the winning shot. Mind you, it was my only shot, but still....
We had a little glitch in our hotel reservations and at 9 at night after three glasses of wine had to search Palo Alto for a place to stay. Thanks a lot Priceline! We ended up at the Hooker Hut! Okay, the Travel Lodge, but it might has well been called...
It was all worth it to get to see my parents and be with Dave on Father's Day. Thank you to everyone for all your support. I saw the many cards they had displayed around the apartment. You are all so sweet, kind, and thoughtful. I'm so proud to call you our famiy and friends!.
Dave will have to return to Standford for a check up in early July. For now, he will need to rest and allow his body to reboot.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Dave Update- June 17, 2011
Hello Family and Friends, Dave is plugging along today. He's feeling a bit better and started to eat some small meals. He even started to ease slowly back with a short walk. He's in training I guess for our visit tomorrow. His numbers are continuig to rise. A matter of fact he is doing so well he does not have to go back for a doctor's appointment until Monday! That means he has the whole weekend free, yay! And maybe, just maybe, they might remove his port sometime next week.
Cory and I are heading out real early in the morning for our visit. We are so excited to see them and get to spend part of Father's Day in Palo Alto. Speaking of Father's Day:
I have to say God has blessed me with two amazing dads. I've been a daddy's girl from birth and couldn't imagine that another man could hold a special place in my life like my real dad. But, as you know by now, there was one... Dave.
I met Dave when I believe I was 12 or 13. My brothers were 14, 16, and 3 if my estimation is correct. I actually remember one of the first times I met Dave, and frankly I'm surprised I ever saw him again. My mom loves to tell this story, probably because she is just as shocked as I am that he came back around. My mom was working when she called the house to check on us and I told her that my older brother and his friend were throwing up EVERYWHERE! I was crying and freaking out and trying my best to clean up the mess. My mom sent Dave by to check on us. What was SHE thinking? Seriously, was she trying to scare the guy away? Here he comes by, I'm crying and he's having to help me get my brother in the shower to clean him up. There was throw up everywhere, even in the front of the house! I don't recall all of the details, just that Dave tried his best to help. The funny thing is, not too long after that he told my mom he was relocating from Santa Maria (where we lived) to the Valley. Hmmm, curious, no? There are differing accounts of what happened at this point, but the end result was that my mom and Ben moved to Hanford, and then ultimately to Visalia with Dave, where they've been ever since. I stayed behind and lived with my dad, but would visit often on holidays and in the summer.
There are so many experiences and memories that make up a relationship and Dave has been here for most of my milestones: College, multiple heart aches, trips abroad and the most important:
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Cory and I are heading out real early in the morning for our visit. We are so excited to see them and get to spend part of Father's Day in Palo Alto. Speaking of Father's Day:
I have to say God has blessed me with two amazing dads. I've been a daddy's girl from birth and couldn't imagine that another man could hold a special place in my life like my real dad. But, as you know by now, there was one... Dave.
I met Dave when I believe I was 12 or 13. My brothers were 14, 16, and 3 if my estimation is correct. I actually remember one of the first times I met Dave, and frankly I'm surprised I ever saw him again. My mom loves to tell this story, probably because she is just as shocked as I am that he came back around. My mom was working when she called the house to check on us and I told her that my older brother and his friend were throwing up EVERYWHERE! I was crying and freaking out and trying my best to clean up the mess. My mom sent Dave by to check on us. What was SHE thinking? Seriously, was she trying to scare the guy away? Here he comes by, I'm crying and he's having to help me get my brother in the shower to clean him up. There was throw up everywhere, even in the front of the house! I don't recall all of the details, just that Dave tried his best to help. The funny thing is, not too long after that he told my mom he was relocating from Santa Maria (where we lived) to the Valley. Hmmm, curious, no? There are differing accounts of what happened at this point, but the end result was that my mom and Ben moved to Hanford, and then ultimately to Visalia with Dave, where they've been ever since. I stayed behind and lived with my dad, but would visit often on holidays and in the summer.
There are so many experiences and memories that make up a relationship and Dave has been here for most of my milestones: College, multiple heart aches, trips abroad and the most important:
Me and Dave dancing the Father/Daughter dance at my wedding. My dad walked me down the aisle and I shared my first dance with Dave.
My mom and Dave were there for the birth of my first child, Eden. Dave videotapped me while I was in labor and was in the waiting room while I delivered my precious baby daughter.
Three years later, along came Mason who shares his middle name with his Granpa, Mason David
These are just a few of the examples of what makes up our relationship. I'm so looking forward to many more. I've shared this poem I wrote for Dave with you all before, but I have to include it under this section as Father Day approaches. It really does sum up all my feelings for Dave.
To Father, From Daughter
What makes a Father-Daughter bond so strong?
Is it a biological thread that makes us belong?
Do genetics, chromosomes, and heredity from the start
Determine what ultimately makes up our heart?
If this is true, than look no farther;
I’m simply a mixture of my father and mother
Is that the only answer of what make me, me?
Or could I have fallen farther from the tree?
Wasn’t I shy and afraid of everything new?
Wasn’t I the quiet girl that didn’t have a clue?
No goals and no ideas of what I could be.
But you had a way of seeing way beyond me.
You showed me the world was so much larger.
And that never trying just made things harder.
You watched me fail and make mistake after mistake.
Never letting me fall completely flat on my face
When I look in the mirror, it’s you that I see
Not so much physically, but spiritually.
We have the same flaws, same restlessness, and dry wit.
There’s an understanding here that some just don’t get.
What does “step” father mean anyway?
Does it mean you are a step lower or step farther away?
Does it define you as having less worth?
Simply because you didn’t witness my birth?
I know without a doubt that biology doesn’t matter
It’s not what makes up a father and daughter
It’s investment in time, in laughter, and pain
It’s more than sharing a person’s last name.
Genetics has nothing to do with what’s real
It’s your imprint on my soul that sealed the deal
Now it’s my time to show all I’ve learned
Now that the tables have finally turned.
I will be here for you, as you’ve been there for me
In sickness and in health or whatever it may be
When you look in my eyes, don’t look any harder
What you will see is a daughter’s love for her father.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Dave Update-June 16, 2011
Hello family and friends, Dave was released from the hospital today. His numbers have gone up to 3.8 which is really fantastic! He's not feeling like a million bucks and hasn't ate much in the past several days, but hopefully now that he is back to the apartment his appetite will improve. I can't imagine hospital food is very appetizing. My mom is convinced that he did worse in the hospital and I tend to agree. Of course, he will still be monitored closely for infection. In fact, in my research, it typically takes 6+ months for the immune system to get back to "normal" after transplant. That doesn't mean he won't be able to come home, but that he will have to continue to be conscientious of germs, sick people, etc. In reality, MM patients will always have a compromised immune system to some extent and should practice safety precautions for life.
Thank you for all your prayers, letters, phone calls, messages, etc. We are lucky to have so many loving people in our lives.
Jeana
Thank you for all your prayers, letters, phone calls, messages, etc. We are lucky to have so many loving people in our lives.
Jeana
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Dave Update-June15, 2011
Hello family and friends, I spoke with Dave this morning and he said his white blood count is rising. He's over 1.0 right now. I'm not a hundred percent sure how Stanford classifies the safe level, but some of the MM patients I follow are saying 2.0 or higher. I'll let you know when I find out for sure. We are hopeful that Dave will get released tomorrow. They said if he doesn't get any fever today after getting him off antibiotics than he should be safe to go back to the apartment tomorrow. I'm hoping this is true since we are going for a visit on Saturday. I can't wait to see Dave and Mom. I know it has only been two weeks, but it feels like forever. I can imagine it feels a ton worse for them.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Dave Update-June 13, 2011
Hello family and friends, I spoke with my mom this morning and she informed me that Dave was hospitalized last night with a fever. In the last blog, I explained that any fever above 100.4 they require the patient to be hospitalized so that they can monitor them even closer. Mom was taking Dave's temp regularly last night and it reached 100.8 so she insisted they call the hospital. Around 8 p.m. they headed over and he was admitted. At this point there is nothing to be concerned about. It's really amazing that he made it 10 days post transplant before being hospitalized. This is just normal precautionary measures.
They will keep Dave admitted until his white counts start to rise. They will be giving him high doses of antibiotics for the fever, fluids, his meds through an IV, and will keep him very comfortable.
If there are any changes, I will let you know.
They will keep Dave admitted until his white counts start to rise. They will be giving him high doses of antibiotics for the fever, fluids, his meds through an IV, and will keep him very comfortable.
If there are any changes, I will let you know.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Dave Update-June 11, 2011
Hi there family and friends, sorry for the lapse in updates, but there wasn't really much new to report until now. Dave is still doing really good so far, except he has got to a few of those pesky mouth sores. The mouth sores are in his throat so you can imagine how annoying that must be. He received some "liquid" pain med today so hopefully that will help manage the discomfort they cause. He also has a slight fever. Nothing alarming at this point, but obviously they will montior him carefully. They got it down to a 99 degrees I believe and if it goes to 100.4 they would hospitalize him so they can monitor him even more cafefully. He is in great hands and the staff is taking great care of him.
Each day is a new unknown, but so far Dave has been the ideal patient, breaking all "normal" and "to be expected" symptoms and complications transplant patients typically experience.
Cory and I will be going for a visit next weekend. I seriously can't wait! I really miss mom and Dave and can't wait to see them. I hope to go to one of Dave's doctor's appointment, see the hospital, and maybe sneak over to the mall with my mom, while the guys visit. I'm so excited to be in Palo Alto on Father's Day and get to spend some time with Dave and my mom.
My parents have been thrilled by all the cards and gifts family and friends have sent. How thoughful and kind of all of you. It can be lonely being away from your home, but you have made it easier. Thank you.
Each day is a new unknown, but so far Dave has been the ideal patient, breaking all "normal" and "to be expected" symptoms and complications transplant patients typically experience.
Cory and I will be going for a visit next weekend. I seriously can't wait! I really miss mom and Dave and can't wait to see them. I hope to go to one of Dave's doctor's appointment, see the hospital, and maybe sneak over to the mall with my mom, while the guys visit. I'm so excited to be in Palo Alto on Father's Day and get to spend some time with Dave and my mom.
My parents have been thrilled by all the cards and gifts family and friends have sent. How thoughful and kind of all of you. It can be lonely being away from your home, but you have made it easier. Thank you.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Dave Update-June 8, 2011
Hello family and friends, it looks like things are looking up for Dave. He started feeling better yesterday and was able to go on a short walk with my mom and finally eat a little. The medication they gave him for nausea has been working so no more "up chuck". His numbers are dropping just like they should and he will start nupragen shots tomorrow. Neupogen is a growth factor that is used to bring Dave's stem cells back up to fighting levels (after chemo wiped out his immune system) and helps to stimulate an accelerated production of white blood cells (which Dave needs to fight off infections). We are day 5 post transplant and Dave still hasn't been hospitalized! We are close to zeroing out his system so if we get through the next few days without any complications, we should be over the hump. Fever and infection- stay away!
I read and follow many blogs on multiple myeloma patients and Dave really is doing remarkable well considering everything his body has gone through.
I also want you all to know today is Mom and Dave's Anniversary. It was 26 years today that they married. Wow! I was 15 years old and I'm sure many of you remember what a great day it was. Well, actually, now that I think of it, many of you probably don't "remember" much about that day- if you know what I mean! (wink)!
Not many couples make it 26 years these days and I have a lot of respect for my parent's commitment to each other and our family. Those of us who have failed at marriage know what a challenge it is and how selfless you have to be at times to make things work. I've seen this time and time again between my mom and Dave. I see it now, as my mom so lovingly and painsakingly has cared for Dave. I see it in Dave as he took on four children and raised them as his own.
I found this poem I wanted to share. I did not write it, but I thought it was a wonderful example of what God wanted out of marriage. I think mom and Dave are a beautiful example of this and I hope that all of us who have struggled in marriage and commitment can recognize why God created this amazing partnership.
God created marriage,
for he knew we'd need a friend.
To share our hopes and dreams with,
and love us 'till the end.
God created marriage,
to teach us how to share.
All our earthly assets,
and make us more aware;
That someone else's feelings,
are more important than our own.
And not one of us is perfect,
so we can't cast a stone.
God created marriage,
to teach us to forgive.
His life was our example,
He showed us how to give.
God created marriage,
to teach us how to say.
"I love you" to another person,
each and every day.
Please say a special prayer for mom and Dave today as they celebrate their anniversary. I pray that God strengthens their commitment to each other. I pray that their eyes are wide open to the gifts they have given each other over the years and that an abundance of appreciation, forgiveness, and peace will cover them.
I read and follow many blogs on multiple myeloma patients and Dave really is doing remarkable well considering everything his body has gone through.
I also want you all to know today is Mom and Dave's Anniversary. It was 26 years today that they married. Wow! I was 15 years old and I'm sure many of you remember what a great day it was. Well, actually, now that I think of it, many of you probably don't "remember" much about that day- if you know what I mean! (wink)!
Not many couples make it 26 years these days and I have a lot of respect for my parent's commitment to each other and our family. Those of us who have failed at marriage know what a challenge it is and how selfless you have to be at times to make things work. I've seen this time and time again between my mom and Dave. I see it now, as my mom so lovingly and painsakingly has cared for Dave. I see it in Dave as he took on four children and raised them as his own.
I found this poem I wanted to share. I did not write it, but I thought it was a wonderful example of what God wanted out of marriage. I think mom and Dave are a beautiful example of this and I hope that all of us who have struggled in marriage and commitment can recognize why God created this amazing partnership.
God created marriage,
for he knew we'd need a friend.
To share our hopes and dreams with,
and love us 'till the end.
God created marriage,
to teach us how to share.
All our earthly assets,
and make us more aware;
That someone else's feelings,
are more important than our own.
And not one of us is perfect,
so we can't cast a stone.
God created marriage,
to teach us to forgive.
His life was our example,
He showed us how to give.
God created marriage,
to teach us how to say.
"I love you" to another person,
each and every day.
Please say a special prayer for mom and Dave today as they celebrate their anniversary. I pray that God strengthens their commitment to each other. I pray that their eyes are wide open to the gifts they have given each other over the years and that an abundance of appreciation, forgiveness, and peace will cover them.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Dave Update-June 6, 2011
Hola friends and family, we are day 3 post transplant and Dave is still experiencing loss of appetite and nausea. The good news is, no mouth sores as of yet. Mouth sores are really common for transplant patients and extremly bothersome as well. Dave's white blood cells still haven't bottomed out, but typically it takes about 7 days post transplant so hopefully by the end of the week we will be heading on the upswing. Dave has been sleeping a lot due to the benadryl they are giving him along with the anti-nausea medication. As far as Mom and I are concerned, let him sleep through this and wake up all better! Dave is still doing good enough that he has not had to be hospitalized so this is a great sign. I feel so much anxiety being so far away as I'm sure a lot of you do, but I have zero doubt that Dave will come out of this as Charlie Sheen would say, "Winning!"
God is good.
Much Love,
Jeana
God is good.
Much Love,
Jeana
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Dave Update-June 5, 2011
Hello family and friends, just a quick update on Dave's progress. Well, the chemo is kicking in and he suffered from some major nauseousness yesterday. He is having a real hard time keeping food down and threw up several times last night and this morning. To top things off, Mom was suffering from some stomach bug herself so they were both pretty much bed ridden all yesterday. I spoke with Mom this morning and Dave was not eating and hadn't since the morning the day before. He also wasn't taking his medication. They had an appointment this morning at 11:30 and they were able to give him his medication through his water pouch, which included the much needed anti-nausea medication. Really, this is to be expected and things will probably get worse as his immune system zeros out before his numbers start to rise. Thankfully, as of now he hasn't been hospitalized. Each day is a new day of unknowns so please keep your prayers coming. Much love, Jeana
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Dave Update-June 4, 2011
Adios Cancer!!!
Dave is getting his benedryl and other meds before they start the transplant.
Here is Dave relaxing during the actual transplant.
Hello family and friends, Dave had his transplant yesterday and it went well. Although they were at the hospital for over 4 hours, the transplant took a whooping 5 minutes. Crazy, right? It's kind of like Christmas. You plan, decorate, by gifts, wrap presents, mail presents, etc. for several months and it's over in one day. I spoke with Dave this morning and he sounds great! He said he felt a little tightening of his chest during the transplant and a weird taste in his mouth, overwise anti-climatic. We are hopeful there won't be any complications and little discomfort, but the majority of patients do end up being admitted back to the hospital for low platelets, potassium, or some other issue that can occur when your entire immune system has been wiped away. Dave goes to the hospital daily for blood work and to monitor his progress. I will keep you posted on any changes, but it looks like we are kicking cancer's ***. I know, I'm a classy gal aren't I?
RESEARCH FINDINGS
I did want to share some exciting findings from recent reseach that has been conducted in Spain. This is postive news for multiple myeloma patients in complete response (which is where Dave is going into the stem cell transplant). Please note, Dave has an agressive abnormal chromosome and I'm unsure it his type is included in this study. But, if you recall from a previous blog entry I told you that they have a new drug that is showing very responsive to Dave's abnormal chromosome. Very promising news for the multiple myeloma community.
Spanish researchers recently published long-term follow-up results confirming that a complete response following stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma patients increases overall and progression-free survival compared to a very good or partial response.
Treatment with high-dose chemotherapy followed by stem cell transplantation is a standard therapeutic approach for younger, newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients. There has been some debate among researchers, however, as to whether the quality of response following transplantation can predict patient outcome.
In 2000, the same group of researchers published results demonstrating that complete response should be an important goal of stem cell transplantation as it improved overall survival rates in multiple myeloma patients (see the 2000 study). The goal of the current study was to confirm these results after a longer follow-up period.
The researchers studied 344 multiple myeloma patients who had received stem cell transplants between 1989 and 1998. All 344 patients were included in the original 2000 study. When the follow-up analysis was done in February 2010, updated information was available for 322 of these patients.
Based on the long-term follow-up study, the average progression-free survival period for complete responders following transplantation was 47 months, compared to 30 months for near complete responders, 27 months for very good partial responders, and 23 months for partial responders. At a 12 year follow-up point, 28 percent of complete responders remained progression-free, while 19 percent of near complete responders, 10 percent of very good partial responders, and 11 percent of partial responders remained progression-free.
Overall survival was 91 months for patients achieving a complete response, 56 months, 55 months, and 43 months for patients achieving a near complete, very good partial, and partial response, respectively. At a follow up of 12 years, the overall survival rates were 35 percent for complete responders, 22 percent for near complete responders, and 16 percent for both very good and partial responders.
Based on their results, the researchers concluded that those patients who achieved a complete response following transplantation had a significant survival advantage over those who did not achieve a complete response. Patients who received a near complete response, very good partial response, or partial response were considered to have similar progression-free and overall survival times.
The study also found that a plateau in the progression-free survival and overall survival times occurred 11 years after transplantation. In other words, the number of patients who progressed or died over time leveled off around 11 years, such that those patients who were still alive and still in remission at 11 years were likely to continue living in remission.
A total of 35 percent of patients who achieved a complete response reached plateau, and all patients still in complete response at plateau had not relapsed in an average of five years beyond plateau. The study authors suggested this indicates that these patients may be cured.
Of the patients who achieved a near complete, very good partial, or partial response, 11 percent reached plateau. Two patients in this group relapsed since the plateau.
Dave is getting his benedryl and other meds before they start the transplant.Hello family and friends, Dave had his transplant yesterday and it went well. Although they were at the hospital for over 4 hours, the transplant took a whooping 5 minutes. Crazy, right? It's kind of like Christmas. You plan, decorate, by gifts, wrap presents, mail presents, etc. for several months and it's over in one day. I spoke with Dave this morning and he sounds great! He said he felt a little tightening of his chest during the transplant and a weird taste in his mouth, overwise anti-climatic. We are hopeful there won't be any complications and little discomfort, but the majority of patients do end up being admitted back to the hospital for low platelets, potassium, or some other issue that can occur when your entire immune system has been wiped away. Dave goes to the hospital daily for blood work and to monitor his progress. I will keep you posted on any changes, but it looks like we are kicking cancer's ***. I know, I'm a classy gal aren't I?
RESEARCH FINDINGS
I did want to share some exciting findings from recent reseach that has been conducted in Spain. This is postive news for multiple myeloma patients in complete response (which is where Dave is going into the stem cell transplant). Please note, Dave has an agressive abnormal chromosome and I'm unsure it his type is included in this study. But, if you recall from a previous blog entry I told you that they have a new drug that is showing very responsive to Dave's abnormal chromosome. Very promising news for the multiple myeloma community.
Spanish researchers recently published long-term follow-up results confirming that a complete response following stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma patients increases overall and progression-free survival compared to a very good or partial response.
Treatment with high-dose chemotherapy followed by stem cell transplantation is a standard therapeutic approach for younger, newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients. There has been some debate among researchers, however, as to whether the quality of response following transplantation can predict patient outcome.
In 2000, the same group of researchers published results demonstrating that complete response should be an important goal of stem cell transplantation as it improved overall survival rates in multiple myeloma patients (see the 2000 study). The goal of the current study was to confirm these results after a longer follow-up period.
The researchers studied 344 multiple myeloma patients who had received stem cell transplants between 1989 and 1998. All 344 patients were included in the original 2000 study. When the follow-up analysis was done in February 2010, updated information was available for 322 of these patients.
Based on the long-term follow-up study, the average progression-free survival period for complete responders following transplantation was 47 months, compared to 30 months for near complete responders, 27 months for very good partial responders, and 23 months for partial responders. At a 12 year follow-up point, 28 percent of complete responders remained progression-free, while 19 percent of near complete responders, 10 percent of very good partial responders, and 11 percent of partial responders remained progression-free.
Overall survival was 91 months for patients achieving a complete response, 56 months, 55 months, and 43 months for patients achieving a near complete, very good partial, and partial response, respectively. At a follow up of 12 years, the overall survival rates were 35 percent for complete responders, 22 percent for near complete responders, and 16 percent for both very good and partial responders.
Based on their results, the researchers concluded that those patients who achieved a complete response following transplantation had a significant survival advantage over those who did not achieve a complete response. Patients who received a near complete response, very good partial response, or partial response were considered to have similar progression-free and overall survival times.
The study also found that a plateau in the progression-free survival and overall survival times occurred 11 years after transplantation. In other words, the number of patients who progressed or died over time leveled off around 11 years, such that those patients who were still alive and still in remission at 11 years were likely to continue living in remission.
A total of 35 percent of patients who achieved a complete response reached plateau, and all patients still in complete response at plateau had not relapsed in an average of five years beyond plateau. The study authors suggested this indicates that these patients may be cured.
Of the patients who achieved a near complete, very good partial, or partial response, 11 percent reached plateau. Two patients in this group relapsed since the plateau.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Dave Update-June 2, 2011
Hello family and friends, well mom and Dave are settled in to their posh (okay, maybe not posh) apartment in Palo Alto. It's not home, but... it's better than the hospital. Dave had x-rays and blood work completed on Tuesday, and had his Melphalan chemo yesterday. The chemo drip took only 20 minutes and he was sent "home" to relax. He's dragging around a water pump to help him stay hydrated and his infection precautions began, meaning he has to have a special diet and be super careful of germs. (washing hands frequently, wearing mask when out) I'm actually happy about this because dehydration has been a big issue for Dave after each chemo. Today is blood work and he will be having a CT scan this everning.
Tomorrow is Transplant day. They will bring Dave's frozen harvested cells and "transplant" (similar to a blood transfusion) them back in his body through the "line" in his upper chest. Takes approximately 20 minutes. The image below is an example of what it looks like.
From what I understand, Dave's white cell count will bottom out and then what they will look for is those number to start to rise as the healthy cells take over.
I spoke with Dave this morning and he sounds fantastic! He's feeling really good and positive about tomorrow. The doctor did tell him it might take a few days to feel any side affects from the chemo and transplant, but we are hopeful that Dave will ease on through this. Below is a short video that me and the kids did this morning for Dave. Poor Cory did the videotapping so he's not in it, but this is from him as well.
Tomorrow is Transplant day. They will bring Dave's frozen harvested cells and "transplant" (similar to a blood transfusion) them back in his body through the "line" in his upper chest. Takes approximately 20 minutes. The image below is an example of what it looks like.
From what I understand, Dave's white cell count will bottom out and then what they will look for is those number to start to rise as the healthy cells take over.
I spoke with Dave this morning and he sounds fantastic! He's feeling really good and positive about tomorrow. The doctor did tell him it might take a few days to feel any side affects from the chemo and transplant, but we are hopeful that Dave will ease on through this. Below is a short video that me and the kids did this morning for Dave. Poor Cory did the videotapping so he's not in it, but this is from him as well.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
May 31, 2011
Hello family and friends, just a very short update. Dave and my mom left this morning for Stanford and he is scheduled for labs, chest x-rays, and a meeting with his doctor today. It looks like we are going with Option 1. Not that we had a choice really, but Option 1 it is. Dave and I are actually liking Option 1 more since it has only one session of chemo instead of two. He will have his chemo treatment of Melphalan on Wednesday and the transplant is scheduled for Friday, June 3.
Dave was full of energy over the weekend. Mom and I joked that he was like a pregnant woman nesting. I'm not even kidding, he worked on the yard, organized closets, went through pictures, etc. We though his water would break any minute. I really shouldn't joke about water breaking since Dave is having to drink so much to just stay hydrated. We certainly wouldn't want anyting having to do with water breaking.
We had a nice little barbeque on Sunday and enjoyed some time with family and friends before they left on their 30 + day adventure. I felt emotional over the weekend for sure. It's like you wait for this moment for months and now its here and you just kind of don't know what to think or feel. I hate thinking my parents are not just down the street. I hate that I can't be there every step of the way. And yet, I feel peace. I feel like everything is going to be fine and that Dave will have a easy time of it. Well, that is what I'm hoping for and I think Dave is going into this with a fighters spirit! If you could though, pray that Dave's body accepts the new healthy stem cells and that they do their part in healing him. Please pray for my mom as well. Pray that she has peace knowing that Dave will be okay and that everything will be taken care of at home.
I will keep you updated every step of the way as I will be in contant (annoyingly so I'm sure) contact with my mom and Dave. Thanks to everyone for your continued support. We can't imagine going through this alone and you have all been so loving, kind, patient, and selfless. Thank you to Peggy for housesitting my parents "babies". Ya, no pressure there Peggy! Please feel free to write, email, call, whatever. I know that the next 30 + days away from home are going to be difficult so it would be nice to hear from you all. If you'd like to write, send cards, donations (sooo, kidding, just a little inappropriate humor) you can send them to:
Dave and Carol Callahan
1766 Sand Hill Rd. #207
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Dave was full of energy over the weekend. Mom and I joked that he was like a pregnant woman nesting. I'm not even kidding, he worked on the yard, organized closets, went through pictures, etc. We though his water would break any minute. I really shouldn't joke about water breaking since Dave is having to drink so much to just stay hydrated. We certainly wouldn't want anyting having to do with water breaking.
We had a nice little barbeque on Sunday and enjoyed some time with family and friends before they left on their 30 + day adventure. I felt emotional over the weekend for sure. It's like you wait for this moment for months and now its here and you just kind of don't know what to think or feel. I hate thinking my parents are not just down the street. I hate that I can't be there every step of the way. And yet, I feel peace. I feel like everything is going to be fine and that Dave will have a easy time of it. Well, that is what I'm hoping for and I think Dave is going into this with a fighters spirit! If you could though, pray that Dave's body accepts the new healthy stem cells and that they do their part in healing him. Please pray for my mom as well. Pray that she has peace knowing that Dave will be okay and that everything will be taken care of at home.
I will keep you updated every step of the way as I will be in contant (annoyingly so I'm sure) contact with my mom and Dave. Thanks to everyone for your continued support. We can't imagine going through this alone and you have all been so loving, kind, patient, and selfless. Thank you to Peggy for housesitting my parents "babies". Ya, no pressure there Peggy! Please feel free to write, email, call, whatever. I know that the next 30 + days away from home are going to be difficult so it would be nice to hear from you all. If you'd like to write, send cards, donations (sooo, kidding, just a little inappropriate humor) you can send them to:
Dave and Carol Callahan
1766 Sand Hill Rd. #207
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Monday, May 23, 2011
Dave Update-May 23, 2011
Hi there family and friends, it looks like we have a new schedule. Stanford has scheduled two treatment plans, one with highly fashionable BCNU chemo that is currently out-of-stock. The second plan is with the Melphalan chemo only. Obviously, we are hoping for the "original recipe" which is the second option. The two schedule scenarios are listed below:
I. Melphalan only
1. May 31- Report to Stanford for labs, chest x-rays, and meeting with doctor.
2. June 1- Receive Melphalan chemo treatment
3. June 2- No Chemo
4. June 3- Transplant
5. June 4-on Live locally (4-6 weeks)
2. BCNU (if it comes in) Why do I feel like we are waiting for a new shoe shipment? Anyway:
1. June 1- Report to Stanford for labs, chest x-rays, and meeting with doctor.
2. June 2- Stay overnight for BCNU chemo.
3. June 3- Discharge to local housing with caregiver. Start continous IV fluids with home infusion
pump.
4. June 4- Report back for Melphalan chemo
5. June 5- No Chemo
6. June 6 Transplant
7. June 7- Discharged to local housing with caregiver. Live locally (4-6 weeks)
Now that I'm looking at this, why do we want option II? I mean, seriously. Who wouldn't choose option I. Perhaps it's a conspiracy. They offer you Option II to make Option I not looks so bad. Interesting. Genius, really. Time will tell what their master plan is and I will let you know the definitive date of Option I or II once it is confirmed.
The good news is mom and Dave were able to secure housing. It's only one bedroom and costs a bit more than the two bedroom they previously secured, but it is closer to the hospital. That part, I like.
Once I get their address I will post on this blog. Feel free to send cards, letters, whatever. They will be there for awhile and I'm sure they would be thrilled to hear from family and friends.
Dave has been doing fairly well. His appetite is up and down and I think he now owns stock in Aquafina from all the water he has to drink to stay hydrated. I think he is just looking forward to getting this over with and getting back to his life before cancer took over.
Below is a link to a short video on the whole transplant process Dave has been going through. Please note: This is a video for services offered at Cancer Centers of America and Dave is not receiving treatment at their facilities.
http://www.cancercenter.com/video/treatments-technology/stem-cell-transplants/autologous
I. Melphalan only
1. May 31- Report to Stanford for labs, chest x-rays, and meeting with doctor.
2. June 1- Receive Melphalan chemo treatment
3. June 2- No Chemo
4. June 3- Transplant
5. June 4-on Live locally (4-6 weeks)
2. BCNU (if it comes in) Why do I feel like we are waiting for a new shoe shipment? Anyway:
1. June 1- Report to Stanford for labs, chest x-rays, and meeting with doctor.
2. June 2- Stay overnight for BCNU chemo.
3. June 3- Discharge to local housing with caregiver. Start continous IV fluids with home infusion
pump.
4. June 4- Report back for Melphalan chemo
5. June 5- No Chemo
6. June 6 Transplant
7. June 7- Discharged to local housing with caregiver. Live locally (4-6 weeks)
Now that I'm looking at this, why do we want option II? I mean, seriously. Who wouldn't choose option I. Perhaps it's a conspiracy. They offer you Option II to make Option I not looks so bad. Interesting. Genius, really. Time will tell what their master plan is and I will let you know the definitive date of Option I or II once it is confirmed.
The good news is mom and Dave were able to secure housing. It's only one bedroom and costs a bit more than the two bedroom they previously secured, but it is closer to the hospital. That part, I like.
Once I get their address I will post on this blog. Feel free to send cards, letters, whatever. They will be there for awhile and I'm sure they would be thrilled to hear from family and friends.
Dave has been doing fairly well. His appetite is up and down and I think he now owns stock in Aquafina from all the water he has to drink to stay hydrated. I think he is just looking forward to getting this over with and getting back to his life before cancer took over.
Below is a link to a short video on the whole transplant process Dave has been going through. Please note: This is a video for services offered at Cancer Centers of America and Dave is not receiving treatment at their facilities.
http://www.cancercenter.com/video/treatments-technology/stem-cell-transplants/autologous
Friday, May 13, 2011
May 13, 2011-Dave Update
Hi there family and friends, well a small, but annoying, change in plans. It has been three weeks since Dave completed second and final stem cell harvesting and he was scheduled to start pre-transplant chemo on May 16, with a scheduled transplant for May 20. Housing was secured, house sitter in place, ready to rock-n-roll. On Wednesday, May 11 Dave, along with his good buddy Steve, headed to Stanford for a meeting with his doctor. It was at this meeting that the doctor informed Dave that they were out of his chemo medication that was scheduled for Monday, May 16. They explained to him that they hope to have it in two weeks. Huh? This isn't like we went to the McDonald's drive through and they tell you they ran out of ice cream for a vanilla cone, we are talking about a pre-scheduled transplant that has been several months in the waiting. WTF! Sorry, Grandma and Grandpa, I just didn't know any better way to express the frustration we are all feeling.
1. My parents had secured and signed a contract for an apartment right next to the hospital. They will now have to cancel the apartment, lose a couple hundred bucks, and not know for sure if they will be able to secure another one before they rescheduled the transplant.
2. We don't even know IF they will get the chemo medication in since apparently there is a short in this particular chemo. I guess it is very trendy for Spring and everyone HAS to have it.
3. From what the doctor says, if the chemo medication doesn't come in, we'll go ahead and forgo it, and just do the Melphalan chemo (which was going to be the secondary chemo med administered on the 18th. Okay, seriously? This is like you being told that for your car to work properly it will need a new transmission and an oil change, but sorry we don't have the transmission, but we'll go ahead and give you the oil change and that should be fine. Sure, okay! Apparently, they used to do stem cell transplants with the Melphalan chemo alone, so they seem to think this would be fine because this is what they USED to do. Really? Problem is, you told us of this other chemo that was part of the plan and now we'll always wonder if we received the BEST care!
4. Dave and my mom have been mentally preparing themselves for this process for months and for them to run out of the medication they already had planned in advance to administer, is in my opinion, sloppy. There is a lot of planning to do to leave your home, family, and job for 4-6 weeks. Obviously, they are frustrated. And I don't know if you can tell, but I'm frustrated too! This is a family journey that we are on and we were all prepping for our parts.
Okay, enough with Debbie Downer. What am I grateful for:
1. I'm grateful that we have an amazing support system of family and friends that have opened their homes, offered to house sit, prayed, and just listened and supported us over the past 9 months.
2. I'm grateful that Dave is in complete response going into this transplant and has responded so well to all treatment.
3. I'm grateful that Dave has my mom as a caretaker. He couldn't be in better hands.
4. I'm grateful for the amazing local Oncologist and nurses that have given Dave the greatest care and support for the past 9 months here in Visalia.
5. I am grateful and aware of God's control on this situation and will remain faithful no matter how his plans doesn't always match our plans.
So for now, we patiently wait.... I will let you know the new schedule once we are told.
1. My parents had secured and signed a contract for an apartment right next to the hospital. They will now have to cancel the apartment, lose a couple hundred bucks, and not know for sure if they will be able to secure another one before they rescheduled the transplant.
2. We don't even know IF they will get the chemo medication in since apparently there is a short in this particular chemo. I guess it is very trendy for Spring and everyone HAS to have it.
3. From what the doctor says, if the chemo medication doesn't come in, we'll go ahead and forgo it, and just do the Melphalan chemo (which was going to be the secondary chemo med administered on the 18th. Okay, seriously? This is like you being told that for your car to work properly it will need a new transmission and an oil change, but sorry we don't have the transmission, but we'll go ahead and give you the oil change and that should be fine. Sure, okay! Apparently, they used to do stem cell transplants with the Melphalan chemo alone, so they seem to think this would be fine because this is what they USED to do. Really? Problem is, you told us of this other chemo that was part of the plan and now we'll always wonder if we received the BEST care!
4. Dave and my mom have been mentally preparing themselves for this process for months and for them to run out of the medication they already had planned in advance to administer, is in my opinion, sloppy. There is a lot of planning to do to leave your home, family, and job for 4-6 weeks. Obviously, they are frustrated. And I don't know if you can tell, but I'm frustrated too! This is a family journey that we are on and we were all prepping for our parts.
Okay, enough with Debbie Downer. What am I grateful for:
1. I'm grateful that we have an amazing support system of family and friends that have opened their homes, offered to house sit, prayed, and just listened and supported us over the past 9 months.
2. I'm grateful that Dave is in complete response going into this transplant and has responded so well to all treatment.
3. I'm grateful that Dave has my mom as a caretaker. He couldn't be in better hands.
4. I'm grateful for the amazing local Oncologist and nurses that have given Dave the greatest care and support for the past 9 months here in Visalia.
5. I am grateful and aware of God's control on this situation and will remain faithful no matter how his plans doesn't always match our plans.
So for now, we patiently wait.... I will let you know the new schedule once we are told.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
True Love
I felt this overwhelming rush of peace today.
I didn’t know love could feel this way.
I’ve been in love, maybe once, maybe twice.
But what I’m feeling now, I’ve never felt in my life.
I’ve been dreaming of love since I was a little girl.
Romantic notions of a prince charming, a Cinderella story, if you will.
But emptiness, disappointment, and countless broken hearts,
Couldn’t open my eyes to what was here from the start.
The hole just got bigger as I looked for true love;
I wanted that perfect relationship that fit like a glove.
You waited so patiently year after year,
The feeling of loss sometimes too much to bare.
You rushed to my side when I cried out your name.
Never fast to anger when I laid out the blame.
I played hard to get and mindless games.
I ran away like a filly; that was too hard to tame.
I took you for granted and pushed you away,
Never truly appreciating the sacrifice you made.
You died on the cross to take away my sin.
You rose three days later so the healing could begin.
My life is now complete with your unwavering grace.
Unconditional love now fills the empty space.
I felt this overwhelming peace today.
I finally found true love and it’s here to stay.
I wrote this poem as a love letter to our savior. I want to give praise and thanks where it belongs. I have believed and continue to believe that his spirit is touching Dave and giving him strength. Much Love, Jeana
Dave Update, April 26, 2011
Hello family and friends: I just received a text from Dave that they completed harvesting again in ONE day! Yeah! They are already on their way home. Dave has still been suffering from some intestinal issues and is going to visit his oncologist when he gets home to see what they can do about it. It is affecting his appetite and is just plainly a pain "in the butt" if you know what I mean. Sorry, it is the crass side of me that escapes every once in awhile. Finally, Dave will get a short break to gather stength, and hopefully put on some weight before the transplant in May. Thank you for your continued love and support.
Dave-2 Cancer- 0
Dave-2 Cancer- 0
Monday, April 25, 2011
Dave Update-April 25, 2011
Hello family and friends, Dave and my mom left at 3:00 a.m. this morning to Stanford after receiving word that his white blood cells counts were good. They headed straight to the hospital where they have to do some initial testing to see if they can start the harvesting process. I spoke with my mom at noon and they just hooked Dave up for harvesting. Remember, it can take 1-4 days for harvesting. We are hoping for one day.
I know this can be complicated to understand the process. Below is a short explanation of the harvesting process.
In the stem cell harvesting process blood is removed from the patient's body through the apheresis catheter (that was previously inserted into Dave's chest), circulated through an aspheresis machine and returned to the patient's body. The aspheresis machine separates out the stem cells and retains them in plastic bags. Although all of the patient's blood goes through the aspheresis machine several times in each session. only about one-half cup is inside the machine at one time. Again, they will freeze Dave's stem cells for the transplant that will occur in May.
I woke up on Easter Sunday feeling pretty blue. The kids were at their dads, I didn't make any plans (other than to go to church) with family, and I knew mom and Dave would be going to Stanford. Easter is my favorite holiday next to Christmas so I was feeling pretty sorry for myself. Things turned around after my mom called and said that Dave wanted the kids to come over in the afternoon after they returned from their dads. He wanted to do a special easter egg hunt for them. At this point they knew they had to be in Stanford at 7 a.m. on Monday morning, but Dave wanted to wait until 3 a.m. to leave so we could get together. I'm happy we did because we had the best time! For all of you that know Dave, you understand that he never does anything "simple" so he planned the best easter egg hunt ever. I'm going to explain in the pictures below:
I know this can be complicated to understand the process. Below is a short explanation of the harvesting process.
In the stem cell harvesting process blood is removed from the patient's body through the apheresis catheter (that was previously inserted into Dave's chest), circulated through an aspheresis machine and returned to the patient's body. The aspheresis machine separates out the stem cells and retains them in plastic bags. Although all of the patient's blood goes through the aspheresis machine several times in each session. only about one-half cup is inside the machine at one time. Again, they will freeze Dave's stem cells for the transplant that will occur in May.
I woke up on Easter Sunday feeling pretty blue. The kids were at their dads, I didn't make any plans (other than to go to church) with family, and I knew mom and Dave would be going to Stanford. Easter is my favorite holiday next to Christmas so I was feeling pretty sorry for myself. Things turned around after my mom called and said that Dave wanted the kids to come over in the afternoon after they returned from their dads. He wanted to do a special easter egg hunt for them. At this point they knew they had to be in Stanford at 7 a.m. on Monday morning, but Dave wanted to wait until 3 a.m. to leave so we could get together. I'm happy we did because we had the best time! For all of you that know Dave, you understand that he never does anything "simple" so he planned the best easter egg hunt ever. I'm going to explain in the pictures below:
This is Dave reading a long list of Easter Egg hunt rules. Along with candy, eggs had a variety of questions in them that the kids had to answer before getting the prize that belonged to the egg. He explained to the kids, as they patiently listened in awe of the amount of rules, that they had to bring the question to him and that he would determine if the answer was correct. He also explained to them that they could not "solicit" answers from others. I just laughed as I watched their faces knowing that they didn't even know what "solicit" means. He even had a map drawn out with exactly where he placed each egg so he wouldn't forget. Mom said he spend a long time out in the yard getting everything perfect for when the kids arrived.
This is Mason as he listened very carefully to the list of instructions and rules for the easter egg hunt.
Mason reading his question to Granpa Dave. One of his questions was, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" His response, "A cop".
For some reason, Eden got all the hard questions like, "What is Christianity?" and "What is the meaning of life?" I was a proud moma as she answered these questions with confidence.
Dave, Mom, Mason, and Eden (Easter 2011) I think Mason summed it up best when he said, "This is the best day ever!"
Thank you Dave and mom for making my family have a very special Easter. I know you weren't feeling well and you both had a lot to do before you left for Stanford, but you still thought about us and making our Easter special. Another special memory I will file away. I love you both. Jeana
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Dave Update: April 21, 2011
Hello family and friends, a short update on Dave since returning from Stanford last week. He has done better this time, but not without some difficulty. After returning last Friday, Dave started to feel pretty crummy on Sunday: fatigue, diarrhea, nauseous, no appetite. Not getting any better on Monday, they decided to drop by his oncologist where they discovered his blood pressure was a bit low and he was again in need of some fluids. They gave him some meds to help with the stomach issues and hooked him up to an IV for several hours. He was asked to return on Tuesday. By Tuesday, he was feeling a bit better and only had to have a little fluids. On Wednesday, they started daily blood draws. Dave said he was feeling some bone pain, which is common when doing the daily shots that stimulate stem cell growth. If you recall from round one, the blood draws determine if enough stem cells have been generated for harvesting. Another words, it could be any day now, and like before, they will have a moments notice to head back to Stanford for the harvesting. As of now though, they have him scheduled for Monday for harvesting. But that might change. We are just waiting for his white cell count to rise.
Harvesting can take 1-4 days in the hospital. The first round, Dave and his super stem cells only took a record 1 day so lets hope we get the same results this time. We should have a 2-3 week break before the actual transplant.
The actual scheduled date for the transplant itself is May 20, but Dave will report to Stanford on the 16 for an overnight stay, where he will have tests, blood drawn, a round of chemo, etc. He will also have one last round of chemo the day before the transplant on the 19. I will go in more depth about the transplant itself when we cross that bridge. What I can tell you from all that I've read, it's pretty anti-climatic compared to what Dave has gone through. The healthy stem cells (that have been frozen) are basically put back into his body through a blood transfusion that takes approximately 30 minutes. The most sensitive time is the days immediately proceeding the transplant as his body slowly accepts the stem cells. My mom and Dave will be staying in Stanford at this point at an apartment or hotel for the remainder of his recovery which could take anywhere between 4-6 weeks depending on his super powers
This is my dedication to Dave and a reminder to all of us the importance of praising God in good times and bad. Please listen by clicking on the image below with the arrow:
Sunday, April 24- Our Lord Jesus Christ rose from the grave. Jesus Christ rose from the dead for you and me. He made the one and only sacrifice for our sins. Jesus says in the Bible, "I am the resurrection and the life; he that believes in me, though he were dead in sin, yet shall he live." John 11:25
Jesus truly is alive. He stands at the door of our hearts, and he is knocking. He wants a personal relationship with each one of us. We need the Lord. "He is an ever present help in time of need." Psalm 46:1.
Only through him can we have eternal life. "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
Jesus promises, "Because I live, you shall live also." John 14:19.
Exciting news: CEO and Founder of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, Kathy Giusti, was named one of TIME Magazine's 100 must influential people in the world! Kathy earned this recognition for the incredible progress she has made transforming the way medical research and drug development are conducted and, ultimately, dramatically improving the outlook for patients with multiple myeloma and other cancers.
Harvesting can take 1-4 days in the hospital. The first round, Dave and his super stem cells only took a record 1 day so lets hope we get the same results this time. We should have a 2-3 week break before the actual transplant.
The actual scheduled date for the transplant itself is May 20, but Dave will report to Stanford on the 16 for an overnight stay, where he will have tests, blood drawn, a round of chemo, etc. He will also have one last round of chemo the day before the transplant on the 19. I will go in more depth about the transplant itself when we cross that bridge. What I can tell you from all that I've read, it's pretty anti-climatic compared to what Dave has gone through. The healthy stem cells (that have been frozen) are basically put back into his body through a blood transfusion that takes approximately 30 minutes. The most sensitive time is the days immediately proceeding the transplant as his body slowly accepts the stem cells. My mom and Dave will be staying in Stanford at this point at an apartment or hotel for the remainder of his recovery which could take anywhere between 4-6 weeks depending on his super powers
This is my dedication to Dave and a reminder to all of us the importance of praising God in good times and bad. Please listen by clicking on the image below with the arrow:
Sunday, April 24- Our Lord Jesus Christ rose from the grave. Jesus Christ rose from the dead for you and me. He made the one and only sacrifice for our sins. Jesus says in the Bible, "I am the resurrection and the life; he that believes in me, though he were dead in sin, yet shall he live." John 11:25
Jesus truly is alive. He stands at the door of our hearts, and he is knocking. He wants a personal relationship with each one of us. We need the Lord. "He is an ever present help in time of need." Psalm 46:1.
Only through him can we have eternal life. "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
Jesus promises, "Because I live, you shall live also." John 14:19.
Exciting news: CEO and Founder of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, Kathy Giusti, was named one of TIME Magazine's 100 must influential people in the world! Kathy earned this recognition for the incredible progress she has made transforming the way medical research and drug development are conducted and, ultimately, dramatically improving the outlook for patients with multiple myeloma and other cancers.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Dave Update- April 15, 2011
Hello family and friends, just a short Dave update. Mom and Dave are currently in Stanford getting his second round of chemo before his last stem cell collection. They arrived on Wednesday morning and immediately spent most of the day getting blood drawn, visiting with his doctor, and all the other fun testing that he has to endure. My mom and Dave spent the night at Pam's house and returned to the hospital on Thursday.
Dave and my mom had the opportunity to meet with another doctor whom I'm gathering from my mom's description was very well liked and popular among the patients and nurses. I'm imagining a MacDreamy synopsis, but this has not been confirmed. Wink, wink.
Dave says the doctor, Miguel Cerejo, M.D., was wonderful to talk with and went in great detail about how Multiple Myeloma has changed since his internship at the University of Chicago over 14 years earlier. At that time, the doctor said he was always sorry to see someone come in with MM. Now, he says when someone comes in with MM, they are always like "Yes" we got this one! He went in great detail about cell structure, the most recent medications, velcade and revlimid and two new ones that have just made their way onto the market. He was really able to ease Dave and my mom's anxiety about what to expect with this round of chemo and the future. The doctor felt that Dave should respond better to this round than he did the first and that we'd have a good idea within 24 hours after chemo how he would respond.
The doctor also acknowledged that Dave had an aggressive abnormal chromosome, but also noted how great Dave has been responding to treatment and expressed a bright outlook for his future. Many MM patients go into stem cell transplant with only a partial response, so Dave's chances of getting a good remission result is great since he is already in complete response! At one point the doctor looked at Dave and said, "God only put a few perfect heads on this earth and the rest he put hair on them". He went on to compliment Dave's shaped head. Dave got a laugh out of this because he has used that quote on and off since first hearing it over 30 years ago.
Dave started his chemo drip about 7 p.m. on Thursday. It takes 3-4 hour and he is required to stay over night. Before that he had lots of pre-meds infused: anti-nausea meds, steroids, pain meds. Dave emailed me Friday morning to let me know that he was feeling pretty good overall. He probably will be released at some point today. I'm not sure if they will stay overnight or rush back to their babies (Dexter and Shelby).
I am so thankful to our family for all the help they give my mom and Dave. Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Wana and Cliff, Allan and family for watching over the cats and making sure they are well taken care of while my parents are gone. I try not to take this personally, but it says a lot that they chose all of you before her one and only daughter to watch over their precious babies, tee, hee...
I also can't thank Pam enough for her generosity. I can't express enough how much stress it takes off my parents to be able to stay with family. Your support in unmeasurable. You make them feel so welcomed and comfortable. What a blessing.
I feel so full of hope and peace that Dave is going to get through this with the best possible diagnosis- NO CANCER. We will meet again someday until there is a cure, but here is praying for a long remission, continued advances in research, and ultimately, a cure.
Dave and my mom had the opportunity to meet with another doctor whom I'm gathering from my mom's description was very well liked and popular among the patients and nurses. I'm imagining a MacDreamy synopsis, but this has not been confirmed. Wink, wink.
Dave says the doctor, Miguel Cerejo, M.D., was wonderful to talk with and went in great detail about how Multiple Myeloma has changed since his internship at the University of Chicago over 14 years earlier. At that time, the doctor said he was always sorry to see someone come in with MM. Now, he says when someone comes in with MM, they are always like "Yes" we got this one! He went in great detail about cell structure, the most recent medications, velcade and revlimid and two new ones that have just made their way onto the market. He was really able to ease Dave and my mom's anxiety about what to expect with this round of chemo and the future. The doctor felt that Dave should respond better to this round than he did the first and that we'd have a good idea within 24 hours after chemo how he would respond.
The doctor also acknowledged that Dave had an aggressive abnormal chromosome, but also noted how great Dave has been responding to treatment and expressed a bright outlook for his future. Many MM patients go into stem cell transplant with only a partial response, so Dave's chances of getting a good remission result is great since he is already in complete response! At one point the doctor looked at Dave and said, "God only put a few perfect heads on this earth and the rest he put hair on them". He went on to compliment Dave's shaped head. Dave got a laugh out of this because he has used that quote on and off since first hearing it over 30 years ago.
Dave started his chemo drip about 7 p.m. on Thursday. It takes 3-4 hour and he is required to stay over night. Before that he had lots of pre-meds infused: anti-nausea meds, steroids, pain meds. Dave emailed me Friday morning to let me know that he was feeling pretty good overall. He probably will be released at some point today. I'm not sure if they will stay overnight or rush back to their babies (Dexter and Shelby).
I am so thankful to our family for all the help they give my mom and Dave. Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Wana and Cliff, Allan and family for watching over the cats and making sure they are well taken care of while my parents are gone. I try not to take this personally, but it says a lot that they chose all of you before her one and only daughter to watch over their precious babies, tee, hee...
I also can't thank Pam enough for her generosity. I can't express enough how much stress it takes off my parents to be able to stay with family. Your support in unmeasurable. You make them feel so welcomed and comfortable. What a blessing.
I feel so full of hope and peace that Dave is going to get through this with the best possible diagnosis- NO CANCER. We will meet again someday until there is a cure, but here is praying for a long remission, continued advances in research, and ultimately, a cure.
Friday, April 8, 2011
April 11, 2011-Dave Update
Hi family and friends, it's been almost three weeks since Dave's return from stem cell collection and he's gearing up for round two. My mom and Dave will be leaving Wednesday back to Stanford for chemo. Dave has been doing pretty good since returning, except for a lot of fatigue. The neuropathy has lessened a bit and thus the need for constant pain medication has decreased. He went into the doctor's last week and his blood work is still looking good. It's impossible to imagine his journey and what purpose he will gleem from it, but I have no doubt that purpose will be had, life's precious moments will be appreciated, and God's grace will prevail. When things seem impossibly unfair, there is someone out there that "out unfairs" you. What I've learned from reading, researching, and following other bloggers is that "will to live" is key to outcome. Hope. Love. Faith. And most importantly, Believing- is the ingredient for success. If you don't believe me, check out this link from a young family that has been hit with a double whammy. What do you see?
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/42452205/ns/today-today_health/
Hope. Love. Faith. Believe
We had a great weekend with a visit from my Uncle Ron (my mom's baby brother) and Aunt Judy. They are on a road trip from Arkansas and we got an opportunity to spend some time with them. They are such sweet and wonderful people. We all got together, along with my Uncle Steve (Dave's brother) and had dinner at Rosa's Saturday night. The owners of Rosa's have been like family to us and that is exactly how they made us feel. They really spoiled us with appetizers, wine, and great service! Dave is loved everywhere and the care and concern from Rosa's staff was a sweet reminder.
Please say a special prayer for Dave. Pray that his spirit and soul is filled with Hope, Love, Faith, and Belief. Also pray that Dave has an easy time with the chemo this round and that his fighting spirit prevails over any discomfort he may experience. I will update you later in the week after he arrives in Standord. Keep that positive flow of energy coming Dave's way by emailing him words of encouragement this week before he leaves. Much love and appreciation- Jeana
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/42452205/ns/today-today_health/
Hope. Love. Faith. Believe
We had a great weekend with a visit from my Uncle Ron (my mom's baby brother) and Aunt Judy. They are on a road trip from Arkansas and we got an opportunity to spend some time with them. They are such sweet and wonderful people. We all got together, along with my Uncle Steve (Dave's brother) and had dinner at Rosa's Saturday night. The owners of Rosa's have been like family to us and that is exactly how they made us feel. They really spoiled us with appetizers, wine, and great service! Dave is loved everywhere and the care and concern from Rosa's staff was a sweet reminder.
Please say a special prayer for Dave. Pray that his spirit and soul is filled with Hope, Love, Faith, and Belief. Also pray that Dave has an easy time with the chemo this round and that his fighting spirit prevails over any discomfort he may experience. I will update you later in the week after he arrives in Standord. Keep that positive flow of energy coming Dave's way by emailing him words of encouragement this week before he leaves. Much love and appreciation- Jeana
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Dave Update-March 29, 2011
Hello all, as quickly as they left to Stanford, they just as quickly are on the return. Dave had collection most of the morning and was able to collect enough stem cells in one day to be released! Typically, it takes between 1-5 days to collect, but Dave being the overachiever that he is did it in one! This is great news because he will have a full two weeks off of everything before he reports back to Stanford on April 14 for round two. Dave has hit Carl's Jr., Jack in the Box, and the Cheesecake Factory since yesterday! Who knows what he'll eat on the way home. We take the taste of food and other simple pleasures for granted don't we.
Score: Dave-1 Cancer- 0
Score: Dave-1 Cancer- 0
Monday, March 28, 2011
Dave Update-March 28, 2011
Hello family and friends, just a short update on Dave. After a difficult last week, things were starting to turn around for Dave by this weekend. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday he didn't have to be hooked up to a IV for dehydration and he started getting some of his appetite back. On Sunday his white blood count started to rise finally. The doctors are able to determine if he is ready for stem cell collection by the level of his white blood cells. Well, this morning when Dave and my mom reported to their daily doctor's appointment, Dave received a call from Stanford stating he was ready (based on the blood draws Dave's doctor has been forwarding to Stanford) for stem cell collection. As I type, my parents are on their way to Stanford. Talk about no notice. They quickly rushed home to pack and headed out. If they arrive before 5 p.m. Dave will start with the preliminary testing they have to do before collection. If not, he will report early tomorrow morning for testing (about 3 hours worth) and then they will hopefully begin stem cell collection. The collection can take from 1 to 5 days. The good news is that the doctor gave Dave the okay to eat whatever he wants. He has been on a very strict, specific diet so he is looking forward to some old fashion comfort food. I think he has Carl's Jr. in his immediate future. Dave sounded great on the phone. I think they are excited to get Step 1 completed and they will have about a week in a half of pure freedom before having to repeat this whole thing over again. Obviously, Dave is not excited about that because he knows what a difficult time he had with the first round of chemo. On the hair front, he hasn't lost any yet. Maybe when you don't have much to lose, you get a reprieve. Who knows, maybe the next round. Sorry for the poor writing, but I'm on my lunch hour and wanted to get you updated.
On a separate note for those who follow for research purposes. Some did not know this, but Geraldine Ferraro, who passed away last week actually had Multiple Myeloma. She had it for over 12 years and had it long before all of the advancements is medicine were made available to Multiple Myeloma patients today. I think for us that research and follow Multiple Myeloma it is upsetting that they say she had a "blood cancer". The difficulty in finding a cure and getting support for MM is that it isn't a well known cancer. Geraldine Ferraro was actively involved in the Multiple Myeloma Foundation and was a honary chair of their board of directors. In addition, she did much to raise awareness about the disease and went before Congress to do so!
If you are interested in learning more about her story, please click on the following links:
http://www.cnn.com/2011/POLITICS/03/26/obit.geraldine.ferraro/index.html?hpt=T1&iref=BN1
http://www.dana-farber.org/pat/patientprofiles/firstperson/geraldineferraro.asp
On a separate note for those who follow for research purposes. Some did not know this, but Geraldine Ferraro, who passed away last week actually had Multiple Myeloma. She had it for over 12 years and had it long before all of the advancements is medicine were made available to Multiple Myeloma patients today. I think for us that research and follow Multiple Myeloma it is upsetting that they say she had a "blood cancer". The difficulty in finding a cure and getting support for MM is that it isn't a well known cancer. Geraldine Ferraro was actively involved in the Multiple Myeloma Foundation and was a honary chair of their board of directors. In addition, she did much to raise awareness about the disease and went before Congress to do so!
If you are interested in learning more about her story, please click on the following links:
http://www.cnn.com/2011/POLITICS/03/26/obit.geraldine.ferraro/index.html?hpt=T1&iref=BN1
http://www.dana-farber.org/pat/patientprofiles/firstperson/geraldineferraro.asp
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Dave Update- March 22, 2011
Hi family and friends, just a short update. Dave is doing better than yesterday when he felt like he was dying. Ends up, he really could have died if my mom didn't take him in when she did. The doctor said if she waited much longer she would have been taking him via an ambulance to the emergency room due to kidney failure. Thank you Lord for guiding my mom to the doctors. Dave spend most of the day at the doctors yesterday and is there now getting IV fluids for dehydration and they are helping him with all his medications, including anti-nausea medicine. He is feeling some bone pain due to the growth factor shots, which is to be expected. They gave him morphine yesterday to calm him from the pain. Today, he still isn't eating (probably fear of throwing it up). I am thankful that Dave has a wonderful Oncologist that is taking care of him. He stated that Dave has 7 times the norm amount of chemo than he gives his patients. This is expected because the chemo is to completly demolish the cancer cells before collection. What angers me is why the heck they released him after this amount of chemo. They should have kept him in the hospital under observation for a couple of days. Oh, let me at them..... !
Monday, March 21, 2011
Dave Update- Part II-March 21, 2011
I just spoke with my mom to check on Dave. She said she took him into his doctor's this morning because he was really sick. He hasn't been able to hold anything down, including his medication. He will be at the doctors most of the day. He is extremely dehydrated so they hooked him up to an IV. The doctor is closely monitoring him and they are giving him medication for the nausea. He is scared. My mom is scared. I am scared. The doctor's and nurses and all the material my mom and I have read state this is to be expected. Try telling that to the guy who is suffering. Urggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggg!
Dave Update-March 21, 2011
Hello family and friends, just a short update on Dave. Dave was released from the hospital in Stanford on Saturday afternoon. He had his hard-core chemo on Friday and they kept him overnight. He text me that morning that he was feeling surprisingly good, but unfortunately that did not last long. Dave and my mom thought he was doing well enough to start heading home after being released. It was not too long into the drive that Dave started to get violently sick. It was raining hard and my mom was attempting to get home and worrying about Dave at the same time. There was a second there that they thought they'd have to take him to the emergency room. Thankfully they made it home without having to make an emergency stop. Dave has been extremely sick ever since. Burning through his body, nausea, and other extreme flu-like symptoms. He also threw up for the first time last night after eating a bit of food.
Dave was sleeping when I went to visit last night, which is a good thing. His neurapathy hasn't been as bad either since the chemo. He hasn't had to take as many pain pills. We are not sure if it is actually getting better, or if he is in so much other pain, that concentrating on the nearapathy has lost its muster.
Obviously, his spirits are very low and this can all seems too much to bear. My mom is a "ROCK" though. Talk about an amazing women. This lady does not get enough credit for the amazing care taking she is doing. I've learned a lot about my mom through this experience. She is stronger than I ever gave her credit. I'm not saying this is easy on her because it is not. But, she stays positive for Dave and lifts him up when he is sad and tells him to "buck up" when he feels like everything is too much. If you could see all she has to do in a day it would blow you away. She has memorized all his medications (and there are tons!) and knows exactly which one he needs to take and when. She has educated herself on everything so she knows exactly what to expect every step of the way. Anyone that knows me, knows that I am a hopeless romantic, I will repeat, I am a hopeless romantic and watching my mom take care of my dad has given me a new view on what love and commitment really looks like.
Please feel free to email and write Dave and my mom. I know that all your positive energy and prayers will help him get through this rough patch. Much love, Jeana
Dave was sleeping when I went to visit last night, which is a good thing. His neurapathy hasn't been as bad either since the chemo. He hasn't had to take as many pain pills. We are not sure if it is actually getting better, or if he is in so much other pain, that concentrating on the nearapathy has lost its muster.
Obviously, his spirits are very low and this can all seems too much to bear. My mom is a "ROCK" though. Talk about an amazing women. This lady does not get enough credit for the amazing care taking she is doing. I've learned a lot about my mom through this experience. She is stronger than I ever gave her credit. I'm not saying this is easy on her because it is not. But, she stays positive for Dave and lifts him up when he is sad and tells him to "buck up" when he feels like everything is too much. If you could see all she has to do in a day it would blow you away. She has memorized all his medications (and there are tons!) and knows exactly which one he needs to take and when. She has educated herself on everything so she knows exactly what to expect every step of the way. Anyone that knows me, knows that I am a hopeless romantic, I will repeat, I am a hopeless romantic and watching my mom take care of my dad has given me a new view on what love and commitment really looks like.
Please feel free to email and write Dave and my mom. I know that all your positive energy and prayers will help him get through this rough patch. Much love, Jeana
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Dave Update: March 17, 2011
Happy St. Patrick's Day to all and a Happy Birthday to my sister-in-law Erika! I hope everyone gets the opportunity to enjoy some green beer, corned beef and cabbage, or whatever Irish tradition you might have in store. March is also Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month. If you would like to make a donation on Dave's behalf, please click on the following link https://online.myeloma.org/NetCommunity/SSLPage.aspx?pid=285. Donations go to finding a cure for multiple myeloma.
As I mentioned in my previous update, mom and Dave are in Stanford. This morning Dave had a catheter placement which is an in/out procedure whereas the surgically place a catheter in his chest area. This is where they will harvest the stem cells from. Dave emailed me not to long ago that all went well! He met with a pain mamangement specialist and they have recommended increasing his neuropathy medicine (Duh!) and looking at some long term solutions for managing Dave's pain. Seriously, as much as he'd like, he can not live in the 60's forever (wink, wink). Tomorrow, Dave will go in for some hard core chemo and will have to stay overnight. He will then return home sometime Saturday for mobilization. We are lucky to have wonderful family in the area who have allowed my mom and Dave to stay with them. Thank you Pam and Happy Belated Birthday to you! Her birthday was yesterday.
Following his return on Saturday from the chemo, Dave will give himself daily injections of a growth factor. Dave will have daily blood work done at his local oncologist to determine when he will be ready to head back to Stanford for step 2- the collection process. Collection doesn't typically occur until 10-14 after chemo. It is during this two week period that Dave's white cells and platelets may be very low, and he is at significant risk for infection. He will be required to wear a mask, be on a special diet, etc.
Feel free to call before visiting during this time and just be sure to stay clear if you have any kind of illness symptoms.
Dave has been having fun looking a pictures lately, so I thought it would be fun to start a photo gallery. If you have any photos of Dave from he youth or your time with him, please email them to me at jeanabrks@yahoo.com. Take a look at these beauties: Maybe someone can help me with dates:
As I mentioned in my previous update, mom and Dave are in Stanford. This morning Dave had a catheter placement which is an in/out procedure whereas the surgically place a catheter in his chest area. This is where they will harvest the stem cells from. Dave emailed me not to long ago that all went well! He met with a pain mamangement specialist and they have recommended increasing his neuropathy medicine (Duh!) and looking at some long term solutions for managing Dave's pain. Seriously, as much as he'd like, he can not live in the 60's forever (wink, wink). Tomorrow, Dave will go in for some hard core chemo and will have to stay overnight. He will then return home sometime Saturday for mobilization. We are lucky to have wonderful family in the area who have allowed my mom and Dave to stay with them. Thank you Pam and Happy Belated Birthday to you! Her birthday was yesterday.
Following his return on Saturday from the chemo, Dave will give himself daily injections of a growth factor. Dave will have daily blood work done at his local oncologist to determine when he will be ready to head back to Stanford for step 2- the collection process. Collection doesn't typically occur until 10-14 after chemo. It is during this two week period that Dave's white cells and platelets may be very low, and he is at significant risk for infection. He will be required to wear a mask, be on a special diet, etc.
Feel free to call before visiting during this time and just be sure to stay clear if you have any kind of illness symptoms.
Dave has been having fun looking a pictures lately, so I thought it would be fun to start a photo gallery. If you have any photos of Dave from he youth or your time with him, please email them to me at jeanabrks@yahoo.com. Take a look at these beauties: Maybe someone can help me with dates:
Dave (far left), Dave Crow (third from left), and Pat (fifth from left)
Clockwise: Dave, Carol, Steve, Jerri, and Carlene
This is when my mom and Dave were dating (tee, hee)
Dave and Carol (1988-89?) from the look of my mom's hair
Monday, March 14, 2011
Dave Update- March 14, 2011
Hello family and friends, We took a couple of weeks break from our original stem cell transplant schedule so we could attend the multiple myeloma conference. More importantly though, Dave was hoping to get the pain he has been in under control before undergoing the grueling next several months. Unfortunately, the pain has continued to get worse! This has been a terrible blow to the exciting news of being in complete response. He is in more pain in remission that he was with cancer. I'm getting really frustrated because it seems that nothing is working and I could really use all of your positive prayer to get over this hurdle. I am so grateful that we got the response we got, but the drugs used to help him have in actuality hurt him in terms of quality of life.
Me, Dave, my mom, Cory, Aunt Wanna, and Clifford got together a couple weeks ago to go over all the information we learned at the conference and to discuss all our options. We all agreed that we probably should proceed with the stem cell transplant. This really wasn't an easy decision and the fact that Dave wanted us to be a part of his decision was a wonderful, memorable, blessed family moment. After the decision, we all joined hands and grandpa said the most beautiful, loving prayer I've ever heard. There really isn't anything like seeing the love of a mother and father for their son. It doesn't matter how old we get or our children get, they will always be our baby. I saw my grandma and grandpa loving their baby son in that moment and I will hold that memory in my heart forever.
Wednesday, mom and Dave will be in Standard for a few days getting blood work done, meeting with a pain managment specialist, getting the catherter placement inserted, and having a first round of chemo. He then heads back home where he will begin the neupogen shots. You can review the entire stem cell process by clicking on the February 8 blog update. The schedule is pretty much the same, but pushed back a couple of weeks. Most likely the actual transplant will occur mid to end May.
I want to thank everyone who has been so loving and helpful during this time. You truly learn who your real friends and family are when you are in need. I know my mom and Dave appreciate everyone's concern, phone calls, emails, and drop bys. I want to personally thank my closest friends: Cory, Donna, Michelle, and Sue who have supported me, prayed with me, listened to me vent, and hugged me when I cried. My relationship with Dave has grown so much over the last few months and I cherish our connection and our ability to express to each other what we feel. Every day should be that way, shouldn't it? We shouldn't let pride and fear stand in the way of truly connecting with people.
Please pray for my mom and Dave. Pray that God wraps his healing arms around Dave and gives him mercy from the pain he is enduring. I know Dear Lord that your are in control and it is you that we all need. Much Love, Jeana.
Me, Dave, my mom, Cory, Aunt Wanna, and Clifford got together a couple weeks ago to go over all the information we learned at the conference and to discuss all our options. We all agreed that we probably should proceed with the stem cell transplant. This really wasn't an easy decision and the fact that Dave wanted us to be a part of his decision was a wonderful, memorable, blessed family moment. After the decision, we all joined hands and grandpa said the most beautiful, loving prayer I've ever heard. There really isn't anything like seeing the love of a mother and father for their son. It doesn't matter how old we get or our children get, they will always be our baby. I saw my grandma and grandpa loving their baby son in that moment and I will hold that memory in my heart forever.
Wednesday, mom and Dave will be in Standard for a few days getting blood work done, meeting with a pain managment specialist, getting the catherter placement inserted, and having a first round of chemo. He then heads back home where he will begin the neupogen shots. You can review the entire stem cell process by clicking on the February 8 blog update. The schedule is pretty much the same, but pushed back a couple of weeks. Most likely the actual transplant will occur mid to end May.
I want to thank everyone who has been so loving and helpful during this time. You truly learn who your real friends and family are when you are in need. I know my mom and Dave appreciate everyone's concern, phone calls, emails, and drop bys. I want to personally thank my closest friends: Cory, Donna, Michelle, and Sue who have supported me, prayed with me, listened to me vent, and hugged me when I cried. My relationship with Dave has grown so much over the last few months and I cherish our connection and our ability to express to each other what we feel. Every day should be that way, shouldn't it? We shouldn't let pride and fear stand in the way of truly connecting with people.
Please pray for my mom and Dave. Pray that God wraps his healing arms around Dave and gives him mercy from the pain he is enduring. I know Dear Lord that your are in control and it is you that we all need. Much Love, Jeana.
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