More fun today.
This morning, a plastic surgeon operated on a mole on my scalp. It needs to be removed to improve the appearance of my dome, in case I decide to go the "Mr. Clean" route. It also needs to be biopsied to check it for problems. It's in the way of my comb, my razor, and my barber, which could lead to "issues."
The anesthesia was local, and the operation quick. The discomfort was not enough to complain about. However, the bandage covering the operation and stitches was sewn directly to my scalp. Nurse Cratchet, back home, will need to snip two stitches in a few hours to remove the bandage and allow the incision to begin healing. I wondered if she was up to the task.
I needn't have worried. She was terrific. Nary a word of doubt or complaint. Perhaps Florence Nightingale would be a better name.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Victory!
Almost...
Good news this morning. After a review of all my numbers, Dr. Shapiro informed me at today's consultation that a second stem cell transplant will not be necessary.
One can imagine the relief that I felt. A second transplant could well have been another arduous journey, plagued with side effects, exhaustion, possible chemo, daily or almost daily trips to the hospital, constant blood tests, more worry and work on the part of my sorely-tested, exhausted bride, and a life that would continue to be placed on hold. I was of course willing to endure it, but I'd rather not.
With this latest news, we can now plan ahead. Trips to see family, friends, and historical sites. More time to play with my cute little granddaughter. More opportunity to get tasks done around the house. More freedom. And confidence in the future. A real retirement. Life as it should be lived.
But it's not over. I haven't forgotten that there is no cure for multiple myeloma. No doubt I'll be plagued with continuing side effects, disability, and tiredness, quite possibly for the rest of my life. There will be regular checkups to monitor my health and progress. And still more testing is needed to guarantee my current diagnosis of a clean slate. Soon, perhaps, I will have to undergo an MRI, possible x-rays, and a scan to ensure the health of my bones and marrow. There will be, I suppose, other tests. All this will be done to keep a close eye on the myeloma, catch it early if and when it resurfaces, and begin new treatments in a timely manner. We will need to be ever vigilant.
My medication regimen will be modified. Since I currently am very susceptible to shingles, I will need to continue my Bactrim regimen for about a year. I will also be placed on a maintenance medication; once again I will commence a treatment with Revlamid, the thalidomide derivative that was, in my particular case, so wildly successful in knocking back my bone marrow cancer from 90% saturation in May to remission today. This drug is strictly controlled, and I will once again need to sign an affidavit promising that I will not get pregnant, and endure regular phone interviews that monitor my handling of the medication. My new Revlamid dose will be 10 mg, (as opposed to the 25 mg I began in May), three weeks on and one week off. With this adjustment in the strength of the medication, I'm hoping that the drug's side effects will be lessened; with luck, aches and pains will be reduced, and the reduction in blood proteins that makes me more susceptible to infections will be moderated. I'll need to be careful.
But all this is doable. For now, I have my life back. For that, I must give thanks to the tsunami of relatives and friends who helped us, to the field of medicine and the selfless personnel who strove to conquer this affliction and treat me, and to the millions who donated money to the War on Cancer. It's the season to express our gratitude, but it would be impossible for me to adequately do justice in that regard for you all. But I will start with a simple "thank you" to everyone.
Almost...
Good news this morning. After a review of all my numbers, Dr. Shapiro informed me at today's consultation that a second stem cell transplant will not be necessary.
One can imagine the relief that I felt. A second transplant could well have been another arduous journey, plagued with side effects, exhaustion, possible chemo, daily or almost daily trips to the hospital, constant blood tests, more worry and work on the part of my sorely-tested, exhausted bride, and a life that would continue to be placed on hold. I was of course willing to endure it, but I'd rather not.
With this latest news, we can now plan ahead. Trips to see family, friends, and historical sites. More time to play with my cute little granddaughter. More opportunity to get tasks done around the house. More freedom. And confidence in the future. A real retirement. Life as it should be lived.
But it's not over. I haven't forgotten that there is no cure for multiple myeloma. No doubt I'll be plagued with continuing side effects, disability, and tiredness, quite possibly for the rest of my life. There will be regular checkups to monitor my health and progress. And still more testing is needed to guarantee my current diagnosis of a clean slate. Soon, perhaps, I will have to undergo an MRI, possible x-rays, and a scan to ensure the health of my bones and marrow. There will be, I suppose, other tests. All this will be done to keep a close eye on the myeloma, catch it early if and when it resurfaces, and begin new treatments in a timely manner. We will need to be ever vigilant.
My medication regimen will be modified. Since I currently am very susceptible to shingles, I will need to continue my Bactrim regimen for about a year. I will also be placed on a maintenance medication; once again I will commence a treatment with Revlamid, the thalidomide derivative that was, in my particular case, so wildly successful in knocking back my bone marrow cancer from 90% saturation in May to remission today. This drug is strictly controlled, and I will once again need to sign an affidavit promising that I will not get pregnant, and endure regular phone interviews that monitor my handling of the medication. My new Revlamid dose will be 10 mg, (as opposed to the 25 mg I began in May), three weeks on and one week off. With this adjustment in the strength of the medication, I'm hoping that the drug's side effects will be lessened; with luck, aches and pains will be reduced, and the reduction in blood proteins that makes me more susceptible to infections will be moderated. I'll need to be careful.
But all this is doable. For now, I have my life back. For that, I must give thanks to the tsunami of relatives and friends who helped us, to the field of medicine and the selfless personnel who strove to conquer this affliction and treat me, and to the millions who donated money to the War on Cancer. It's the season to express our gratitude, but it would be impossible for me to adequately do justice in that regard for you all. But I will start with a simple "thank you" to everyone.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Sunday, December 5, 2010
My recovery continues, thanks to the help of some great friends. This past week we spent some time in Brewster, on Cape Cod, with our long-time compadres Sue N and Linda D at Sue's vacation condo. We passed the time reading, shopping, and dining out. We also took a moment to wish Happy Birthdays to our treasured long-time colleagues Val D and Dave A.
Back to the Cape! There, our favorite haunt was a snazzy restaurant in picturesque Chatham named the "Impudent Oyster", where Linda's nephew serves as the head chef. The man must be incredibly talented, as it would be impossible to match the terrific lunch we enjoyed at this classy eatery. No trip to Chatham would be complete without a visit to the lighthouse there, and time to stop and gaze at the dramatic ocean view on the point.
Back at the condo we enjoyed a dinner purchased and arranged by Sue and Linda after a visit to "Whole Foods", off I-495 exit 18 near Franklin, along side the highway to the Cape. It's no wonder this natural foods chain is growing leaps and bounds, for the meal was wonderful. Afterwards, Linda, a strong proponent of natural healing, gave my poor neuropathy-damaged feet a welcome, calming rub-down with aromatic oils, after which I felt I could have through-hiked the Appalachian Trail. I think Linda should set herself up in business. The oils are highly odoriferous, the only way, I'm sure, Linda could bear to approach my feet after my spending the day "on the hoof."
During the evening, Donna tutored Sue on the plotlines and characters of the hit TV show "Glee" while viewing this week's episode. The next evening, we watched the Woody Allen film "Vicki, Christina, Barcelona" while my well-traveled bride filled in the blanks on Spanish culture and geography.
Making this trip even more enjoyable for all of us was the realization that we were missing the devastating monsoon and power-outages that we learned in real time our friends back home were living through. Our vacation was well-timed.
And thanks to Sue and Linda, a great healing experience.
Back to the Cape! There, our favorite haunt was a snazzy restaurant in picturesque Chatham named the "Impudent Oyster", where Linda's nephew serves as the head chef. The man must be incredibly talented, as it would be impossible to match the terrific lunch we enjoyed at this classy eatery. No trip to Chatham would be complete without a visit to the lighthouse there, and time to stop and gaze at the dramatic ocean view on the point.
Back at the condo we enjoyed a dinner purchased and arranged by Sue and Linda after a visit to "Whole Foods", off I-495 exit 18 near Franklin, along side the highway to the Cape. It's no wonder this natural foods chain is growing leaps and bounds, for the meal was wonderful. Afterwards, Linda, a strong proponent of natural healing, gave my poor neuropathy-damaged feet a welcome, calming rub-down with aromatic oils, after which I felt I could have through-hiked the Appalachian Trail. I think Linda should set herself up in business. The oils are highly odoriferous, the only way, I'm sure, Linda could bear to approach my feet after my spending the day "on the hoof."
During the evening, Donna tutored Sue on the plotlines and characters of the hit TV show "Glee" while viewing this week's episode. The next evening, we watched the Woody Allen film "Vicki, Christina, Barcelona" while my well-traveled bride filled in the blanks on Spanish culture and geography.
Making this trip even more enjoyable for all of us was the realization that we were missing the devastating monsoon and power-outages that we learned in real time our friends back home were living through. Our vacation was well-timed.
And thanks to Sue and Linda, a great healing experience.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Today's consultation with my oncologist was an important one. Within the next few weeks, a determination will be made whether or not to undergo a second stem cell transplant. Blood tests taken this morning will help in making that decision.
The good news is that my blood results today were terrific. Red and white cell counts and plasma readings all look great. I've gained six pounds, thanks in part to the recent holiday and lots of good home cooking. I'm being well taken care of! (Probably too well.)
Not all blood readings could be processed today, however. On December 9, I have a consultation at Albany Medical Center with my stem cell oncologist. At that time, he will look at my recent history and at the full battery of blood tests to determine if a second stem cell transplant is needed. It's 50-50.
I must admit I'm a bit apprehensive. A second transplant and subsequent recovery period would seem like a step backward to me. The first procedure was tough, though not as bad as I expected. I sure would like to avoid a second one. But I've rallied through worse before, and I know I can do it again. Bring it on.
Tonight, at the Brunswick Library, an organizational meeting will be held to begin organizing the benefit "(Make It A) Great Day" half-marathon and walk, scheduled for Sunday, June 5, 2011 (the corrected date). Donations will support the Capital District Cancer Resource Foundation, a charity that offers assistance to area cancer victims who lack the full resources needed to treat this illness. I've witnessed this event's chief organizer, Heidi Bentley Barcomb, in action, and she is a tornado in running shoes. I will help this initiative in any way I can, and I know an army of former students is doing the same. I admire you all, and thank you, too.
Now go out and make it a great day!
P.S. Contact Heidi at heidibarcomb@thedragonflyadventure.com to find out how to help. Learn why the dragonfly has become the symbol of this event.
The good news is that my blood results today were terrific. Red and white cell counts and plasma readings all look great. I've gained six pounds, thanks in part to the recent holiday and lots of good home cooking. I'm being well taken care of! (Probably too well.)
Not all blood readings could be processed today, however. On December 9, I have a consultation at Albany Medical Center with my stem cell oncologist. At that time, he will look at my recent history and at the full battery of blood tests to determine if a second stem cell transplant is needed. It's 50-50.
I must admit I'm a bit apprehensive. A second transplant and subsequent recovery period would seem like a step backward to me. The first procedure was tough, though not as bad as I expected. I sure would like to avoid a second one. But I've rallied through worse before, and I know I can do it again. Bring it on.
Tonight, at the Brunswick Library, an organizational meeting will be held to begin organizing the benefit "(Make It A) Great Day" half-marathon and walk, scheduled for Sunday, June 5, 2011 (the corrected date). Donations will support the Capital District Cancer Resource Foundation, a charity that offers assistance to area cancer victims who lack the full resources needed to treat this illness. I've witnessed this event's chief organizer, Heidi Bentley Barcomb, in action, and she is a tornado in running shoes. I will help this initiative in any way I can, and I know an army of former students is doing the same. I admire you all, and thank you, too.
Now go out and make it a great day!
P.S. Contact Heidi at heidibarcomb@thedragonflyadventure.com to find out how to help. Learn why the dragonfly has become the symbol of this event.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
I didn't think there could possibly be any miracles left in store for Donna and me. Surely, I had concluded, we have more than exhausted the store of heaven's favors allotted to us.
But I was wrong. Yesterday, one of the most astonishing events of my life occurred. And we weren't even here to witness it. The story of my life: always a day late and a dollar short!
While Donna and I were away, a horde of friends descended, locust-like, on our home, armed with rakes, tarps, leaf-blowers, gardening gloves, and incredible hearts, and proceeded with a vengeance to attack the leaves that had buried our lawn. A case of beer and a few hours later, the grounds looked like the gardens of Versailles palace.
That, folks, is the very essense of the term "miracle."
I'm not sure, but I think this story perhaps begins the day before, Saturday, with a visit from two Beths: Beth C and MaryBeth. We have concluded that they were serving as spies in the guise of guests. They made note of the despicable condition of our lawn, shin-deep in dead leaves. They then, it seems, proceeded to organize a surrepticious attack on our property, like a Chinese human-wave, its goal to eradicate the botanic enemy. It was an astonishing show of generalship.
I can testify that the deadly foe never had a chance. Not a single leaf was left to threaten our position. The attack was a huge success. The Taliban would quake with fear when faced with a strike-force of this fervor. Unbelievable!
How does one thank an army? I don't know, but I must try. To the incredible team of Beth C and MaryBeth B, I add David C, Drew C, Barry B, Tom B, Sarah B, Ralph D, Terri M, Mary L, Christine S, Brennan, Jeff C, Ali C, Brendan C, Emma C, Mike and Jeanine B and family, Patti L, Kerry O, Sue N, Evan L, Amy S, Maizie S, Angie W, Margaret M, Paul N, Eric M and family, Michelle M, Taylor, Amie B, Torin B, Dr. Alex S, Mary Lynn W, Don W, Michele J, Sharon L, Chris S, and last but not least, Reilly M. I hope I didn't accidently leave anyone out.
I don't know what I could possibly do here to truly thank everyone. The only answer, I think, is to "pay it forward." I'm going to start by doing all I can to help my 97-year-old, widowed neighbor with her leaves. As you could see, her situation isn't all that different from mine. Only she's in better health.
God bless you all.
But I was wrong. Yesterday, one of the most astonishing events of my life occurred. And we weren't even here to witness it. The story of my life: always a day late and a dollar short!
While Donna and I were away, a horde of friends descended, locust-like, on our home, armed with rakes, tarps, leaf-blowers, gardening gloves, and incredible hearts, and proceeded with a vengeance to attack the leaves that had buried our lawn. A case of beer and a few hours later, the grounds looked like the gardens of Versailles palace.
That, folks, is the very essense of the term "miracle."
I'm not sure, but I think this story perhaps begins the day before, Saturday, with a visit from two Beths: Beth C and MaryBeth. We have concluded that they were serving as spies in the guise of guests. They made note of the despicable condition of our lawn, shin-deep in dead leaves. They then, it seems, proceeded to organize a surrepticious attack on our property, like a Chinese human-wave, its goal to eradicate the botanic enemy. It was an astonishing show of generalship.
I can testify that the deadly foe never had a chance. Not a single leaf was left to threaten our position. The attack was a huge success. The Taliban would quake with fear when faced with a strike-force of this fervor. Unbelievable!
How does one thank an army? I don't know, but I must try. To the incredible team of Beth C and MaryBeth B, I add David C, Drew C, Barry B, Tom B, Sarah B, Ralph D, Terri M, Mary L, Christine S, Brennan, Jeff C, Ali C, Brendan C, Emma C, Mike and Jeanine B and family, Patti L, Kerry O, Sue N, Evan L, Amy S, Maizie S, Angie W, Margaret M, Paul N, Eric M and family, Michelle M, Taylor, Amie B, Torin B, Dr. Alex S, Mary Lynn W, Don W, Michele J, Sharon L, Chris S, and last but not least, Reilly M. I hope I didn't accidently leave anyone out.
I don't know what I could possibly do here to truly thank everyone. The only answer, I think, is to "pay it forward." I'm going to start by doing all I can to help my 97-year-old, widowed neighbor with her leaves. As you could see, her situation isn't all that different from mine. Only she's in better health.
God bless you all.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Thursday, November 5, 2010
It's Guy Fawkes Day in England, celebrated, I'm told, with bonfires and effigies and parties, all to observe a failed 1605 Catholic plot by that terrorist and his co-conspirators to blow up Parliament and rid the country of its state church. I imagine its ultimate effect was to solidify Anglicanism instead, earning much reprobation for Catholic radicals.
Here in America, we have enjoyed a pleasant week. Our friend Theresa was married on Saturday in a spectacular ceremony and reception. She deserved to be on the cover of Brides magazine! On Monday our long-time colleagues Sue N and Val D brought lunch and companionship, always a pick-me-up from these friends. What's more, we enjoyed at the same time a short surprise visit from our old friend Vinnie, a boost that no medication could ever duplicate. Thank you for everything, folks!
In the meantime a surprise package arrives in the mail. A handsome edition of the King James Bible, a gift from our friends Bill and Linda. Cancer centers often tout the value of religion in contributing to recovery, and my friends have helped make sure that heaven's help is made part of my healing process. I owe them. What's more, in recent years I have read a couple of fabulous books on the story of the creation of the KJB ("Wide As the Waters" by Benson Bobrick, and "God's Secretaries", by Adam Nicolson), and one becomes convinced that divine intervention must have been a part of the team that created this stunning work of art. Thank you Linda and Bill!
Santa Claus also came early! On Friday November 5th Shawn H. and Sue D. dropped off a delivery of 4 days worth of dinners from the Meyers Center VOTEC Culinary Program. These students will eventually end up on the food network! Shawn and Sue saved the day. (Actually four days!)
On Tuesday I consulted with Dr. Mccomber, a plastic surgeon who will remove a mole from my scalp, a procedure now scheduled for December 15. If I end up with a bald dome, a choice I may very well elect to make, I want it to be as smooth, defect-free, and handsome as possible!
A major event, however, occurred earlier today: an appointment with my stem cell oncologist, Dr. Shapiro. I am two-thirds of the way through my 100-day hiatus, at the end of which a bone marrow test will determine if there is any cancer left in my body. If there is, I will undergo a second stem cell transplant, sometime after mid-December. If no cancer is detected, no transplant will be needed. I imagine, in that event, that I would commence some sort of maintenance medication. For now, I am on no anti-cancer meds at all.
My appointment with Dr. Shapiro is highly encouraging. Blood numbers continue to improve. I appear to be in good health. My energy level, my eyesight, and the neuropathy in my feet are all slightly improved.
My feet are currently my biggest concern. They continue to be alternately numb and painful, with discomfort that feels like pins and needles, and shards of glass poking through my skin. My soles have been quite tender. A number of recommendations have been made to me by medical personnel and friends: apply cocoa butter, or capsacian. Neither appears to help. In fact, they seem to increase the discomfort. Also, begin a program of vitamin and supplement therapy that includes lots of B vitamins, vitamin E, acetyl L-carnitine, omega-3 gelcaps, etc. This gets expensive. However, under the theory that one cannot put a price on health, and that it must be good for you even if it does nothing for the neuropathy, I cheerfully begin this regimen. Finally, on a whim, I mail-order from Hammacher-Schlemmer an electric foot massager, a device consisting of a rotating drum festooned with knobs that massage the soles of my feet while I'm seated in an easy chair reading or watching the news. I experienced a large lump in my throat while signing the sizeable check, but I now realize there was no need for my trepidation. The massager is terrific! It seems to do my feet much more good than any other approach. Definitely worth the money.
So for now, my recovery slowly continues. But I await with some anxiety my December 9th appointment with Dr. Shapiro, where I learn of my next step in my fight against multiple myeloma.
Here in America, we have enjoyed a pleasant week. Our friend Theresa was married on Saturday in a spectacular ceremony and reception. She deserved to be on the cover of Brides magazine! On Monday our long-time colleagues Sue N and Val D brought lunch and companionship, always a pick-me-up from these friends. What's more, we enjoyed at the same time a short surprise visit from our old friend Vinnie, a boost that no medication could ever duplicate. Thank you for everything, folks!
In the meantime a surprise package arrives in the mail. A handsome edition of the King James Bible, a gift from our friends Bill and Linda. Cancer centers often tout the value of religion in contributing to recovery, and my friends have helped make sure that heaven's help is made part of my healing process. I owe them. What's more, in recent years I have read a couple of fabulous books on the story of the creation of the KJB ("Wide As the Waters" by Benson Bobrick, and "God's Secretaries", by Adam Nicolson), and one becomes convinced that divine intervention must have been a part of the team that created this stunning work of art. Thank you Linda and Bill!
Santa Claus also came early! On Friday November 5th Shawn H. and Sue D. dropped off a delivery of 4 days worth of dinners from the Meyers Center VOTEC Culinary Program. These students will eventually end up on the food network! Shawn and Sue saved the day. (Actually four days!)
On Tuesday I consulted with Dr. Mccomber, a plastic surgeon who will remove a mole from my scalp, a procedure now scheduled for December 15. If I end up with a bald dome, a choice I may very well elect to make, I want it to be as smooth, defect-free, and handsome as possible!
A major event, however, occurred earlier today: an appointment with my stem cell oncologist, Dr. Shapiro. I am two-thirds of the way through my 100-day hiatus, at the end of which a bone marrow test will determine if there is any cancer left in my body. If there is, I will undergo a second stem cell transplant, sometime after mid-December. If no cancer is detected, no transplant will be needed. I imagine, in that event, that I would commence some sort of maintenance medication. For now, I am on no anti-cancer meds at all.
My appointment with Dr. Shapiro is highly encouraging. Blood numbers continue to improve. I appear to be in good health. My energy level, my eyesight, and the neuropathy in my feet are all slightly improved.
My feet are currently my biggest concern. They continue to be alternately numb and painful, with discomfort that feels like pins and needles, and shards of glass poking through my skin. My soles have been quite tender. A number of recommendations have been made to me by medical personnel and friends: apply cocoa butter, or capsacian. Neither appears to help. In fact, they seem to increase the discomfort. Also, begin a program of vitamin and supplement therapy that includes lots of B vitamins, vitamin E, acetyl L-carnitine, omega-3 gelcaps, etc. This gets expensive. However, under the theory that one cannot put a price on health, and that it must be good for you even if it does nothing for the neuropathy, I cheerfully begin this regimen. Finally, on a whim, I mail-order from Hammacher-Schlemmer an electric foot massager, a device consisting of a rotating drum festooned with knobs that massage the soles of my feet while I'm seated in an easy chair reading or watching the news. I experienced a large lump in my throat while signing the sizeable check, but I now realize there was no need for my trepidation. The massager is terrific! It seems to do my feet much more good than any other approach. Definitely worth the money.
So for now, my recovery slowly continues. But I await with some anxiety my December 9th appointment with Dr. Shapiro, where I learn of my next step in my fight against multiple myeloma.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Our last day in Virginia's incredible Blue Ridge country. As the weather is sunny and temperatures moderate, we elect to make the 45 minute drive to Staunton, Virginia to visit the birthplace of the 28th President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson. The son of a minister, the site is the former Presbyterian parsonage there, now part of a complex containing a museum and Wilson's presidential library.
Staunton turns out to be a wonderful, quaint town with many narrow, one-way streets, interesting-looking shops, and a plethora of large, stately, old homes. A terrific place to spend lots of quality time, it seems to me. The parking lot is small, the site less than busy, and we are given a private tour of the home by a pleasant, knowledgable staff member. Some of the furniture is original, including the bed in which the president was born. Later, we tour the museum itself, filled with artifacts, and supplemented by its World War I exhibit, perhaps a fairly recent addition designed to recognize the approaching centennial of that conflict. Equally fascinating is the Wilson limosine on display, a handsome Pierce Arrow, complete with a terrific display detailing its near-demise and eventual preservation, itself a wonderful story. How it could be left for years rusting and vandalized in a field and shed is beyond me.
We leave Staunton after our interesting day, sure that some day we will return to see more. Our vacation, sadly, nears its end.
Staunton turns out to be a wonderful, quaint town with many narrow, one-way streets, interesting-looking shops, and a plethora of large, stately, old homes. A terrific place to spend lots of quality time, it seems to me. The parking lot is small, the site less than busy, and we are given a private tour of the home by a pleasant, knowledgable staff member. Some of the furniture is original, including the bed in which the president was born. Later, we tour the museum itself, filled with artifacts, and supplemented by its World War I exhibit, perhaps a fairly recent addition designed to recognize the approaching centennial of that conflict. Equally fascinating is the Wilson limosine on display, a handsome Pierce Arrow, complete with a terrific display detailing its near-demise and eventual preservation, itself a wonderful story. How it could be left for years rusting and vandalized in a field and shed is beyond me.
We leave Staunton after our interesting day, sure that some day we will return to see more. Our vacation, sadly, nears its end.
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