February 26, 2007
Monday
We made it thru the weekend and could not have made it without the help of Sandi, my Dad and Michael. I can not even tell anyone how much help it was to have Sandi here, not only for nursing but for mental support for me. She got up Saturday and Sunday during the night to give Robert his breathing treatment, meds and fluids. With all the pampering Robert received from all of us, you would think he would be ready to take off on his 4 wheeler. Sandi, our Dad and I all went with Robert to treatment this morning; he had radiation treatment and was seeing the radiation doctor. I wanted Sandi to go in with the doctor and help me get a handle on Robert’s nutrition. Robert went back for radiation and the nurse came and got me and said Robert was very weak and they were going to hook him up to some fluids. Robert is still unable to swallow and it is very painful for him to speak. Robert has sores on his bottom lip now so they are going to cancel his chemo treatment this week to give his mouth some time to heal. We will continue chemo next week. We told the doctor about the trip to the ER this weekend and told him our insurance is not going to cover the supplements the nutritionist has prescribed for him, and there is no way we can pay for it out of pocket it is VERY expensive. Dr. Kurley said we could use Carnation Instant Breakfast, that Robert would get what he needed from that. We will see I am not convinced. Robert lost 14 lbs. in one week. He is down to 195 now. After we saw the doctor we walked over to the chemo room to get the IV for fluids, Robert had to go to the bathroom, which was about 10 feet from the recliner, I went and got Sandi to set with him while I battled the insurance company on the nutrition and the cost of the new nausea medicine they have prescribed for Robert which is also very expensive even with our co-pay. Can you tell I am not real happy with our insurance company, they are a bunch a crooks. When Robert was in the bathroom he passed out, when Sandi got to him and got him back in the recliner his blood pressure was 80/60. The nurses got the IV started and got fluids in him. Sandi very reluctantly had to leave, she had to be at work at 3:00pm at the hospital, and she was only about 2 hours late. We are back home now and Robert is feeling better just very weak. We are trying to push more fluids to keep him hydrated; it is a thin line what Robert can tolerate and how much he needs to stay hydrated. We are optimistic that Robert will gain some strength soon.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Treatments are Kickin' Robert's Tail
February 26, 2007
Monday
We made it thru the weekend and could not have made it without the help of Sandi, my Dad and Michael. I can not even tell anyone how much help it was to have Sandi here, not only for nursing but for mental support for me. She got up Saturday and Sunday during the night to give Robert his breathing treatment, meds and fluids. With all the pampering Robert received from all of us, you would think he would be ready to take off on his 4 wheeler. Sandi, our Dad and I all went with Robert to treatment this morning; he had radiation treatment and was seeing the radiation doctor. I wanted Sandi to go in with the doctor and help me get a handle on Robert’s nutrition. Robert went back for radiation and the nurse came and got me and said Robert was very weak and they were going to hook him up to some fluids. Robert is still unable to swallow and it is very painful for him to speak. Robert has sores on his bottom lip now so they are going to cancel his chemo treatment this week to give his mouth some time to heal. We will continue chemo next week. We told the doctor about the trip to the ER this weekend and told him our insurance is not going to cover the supplements the nutritionist has prescribed for him, and there is no way we can pay for it out of pocket it is VERY expensive. Dr. Kurley said we could use Carnation Instant Breakfast, that Robert would get what he needed from that. We will see I am not convinced. Robert lost 14 lbs. in one week. He is down to 195 now. After we saw the doctor we walked over to the chemo room to get the IV for fluids, Robert had to go to the bathroom, which was about 10 feet from the recliner, I went and got Sandi to set with him while I battled the insurance company on the nutrition and the cost of the new nausea medicine they have prescribed for Robert which is also very expensive even with our co-pay. Can you tell I am not real happy with our insurance company, they are a bunch a crooks. When Robert was in the bathroom he passed out, when Sandi got to him and got him back in the recliner his blood pressure was 80/60. The nurses got the IV started and got fluids in him. Sandi very reluctantly had to leave, she had to be at work at 3:00pm at the hospital, and she was only about 2 hours late. We are back home now and Robert is feeling better just very weak. We are trying to push more fluids to keep him hydrated; it is a thin line what Robert can tolerate and how much he needs to stay hydrated. We are optimistic that Robert will gain some strength soon.
Monday
We made it thru the weekend and could not have made it without the help of Sandi, my Dad and Michael. I can not even tell anyone how much help it was to have Sandi here, not only for nursing but for mental support for me. She got up Saturday and Sunday during the night to give Robert his breathing treatment, meds and fluids. With all the pampering Robert received from all of us, you would think he would be ready to take off on his 4 wheeler. Sandi, our Dad and I all went with Robert to treatment this morning; he had radiation treatment and was seeing the radiation doctor. I wanted Sandi to go in with the doctor and help me get a handle on Robert’s nutrition. Robert went back for radiation and the nurse came and got me and said Robert was very weak and they were going to hook him up to some fluids. Robert is still unable to swallow and it is very painful for him to speak. Robert has sores on his bottom lip now so they are going to cancel his chemo treatment this week to give his mouth some time to heal. We will continue chemo next week. We told the doctor about the trip to the ER this weekend and told him our insurance is not going to cover the supplements the nutritionist has prescribed for him, and there is no way we can pay for it out of pocket it is VERY expensive. Dr. Kurley said we could use Carnation Instant Breakfast, that Robert would get what he needed from that. We will see I am not convinced. Robert lost 14 lbs. in one week. He is down to 195 now. After we saw the doctor we walked over to the chemo room to get the IV for fluids, Robert had to go to the bathroom, which was about 10 feet from the recliner, I went and got Sandi to set with him while I battled the insurance company on the nutrition and the cost of the new nausea medicine they have prescribed for Robert which is also very expensive even with our co-pay. Can you tell I am not real happy with our insurance company, they are a bunch a crooks. When Robert was in the bathroom he passed out, when Sandi got to him and got him back in the recliner his blood pressure was 80/60. The nurses got the IV started and got fluids in him. Sandi very reluctantly had to leave, she had to be at work at 3:00pm at the hospital, and she was only about 2 hours late. We are back home now and Robert is feeling better just very weak. We are trying to push more fluids to keep him hydrated; it is a thin line what Robert can tolerate and how much he needs to stay hydrated. We are optimistic that Robert will gain some strength soon.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
The Storm after The Calm
February 24, 2007
Saturday
Hello to all!! Well I wish I could tell you that Robert was still feeling good. Robert did not sleep at all last night, he is still very congested and having to spit every minute. He got nauseated again, and it was so bad he was throwing up blood and he said he felt like a weight was on his chest. He suffered from 1:30 to 3:00 am. Robert finally could not take it anymore and we called 911 and the ambulance took him to the hospital. They did an EKG and watched him for a while. They told us Robert’s heart was o.k.; it’s probably just all the acid in his stomach, so they sent us home with more prescriptions. We had medical supply deliver a hospital bed to make Robert more comfortable, he is also on Oxygen and taking breathing treatments. For some reason his oxygen level has dropped so they are going to get that back up, and the breathing treatments are to help open up his airway. When we were at the hospital Robert got to use suction and that helped him more than anything, he did not have to rise up and spit. When we got home from the hospital my Dad and I went to the medical supply store and got a suction we can use at home, also picked up more prescriptions. Michael Chase stayed home with Robert and fed him and also put some liquid down his tube. I do not know what I would have done without My Dad and Michael being here. With keeping up with all the medicines, oxygen, feedings, hydrating it is too much for one person to do. Sandi is on her way up, so Robert will have 4 people taking care of him. I am so thankful for her, even though there are 3 of us now, we are pretty exhausted. I told my Dad that the chemo and radiation is kicking Roberts butt, but it is kicking the care takers butt also. We just can not seem to get one step ahead of what Robert needs. Sandi who is an RN has her work cut out for her. Hopefully the next report will be a good one.
Robert and Judy
Saturday
Hello to all!! Well I wish I could tell you that Robert was still feeling good. Robert did not sleep at all last night, he is still very congested and having to spit every minute. He got nauseated again, and it was so bad he was throwing up blood and he said he felt like a weight was on his chest. He suffered from 1:30 to 3:00 am. Robert finally could not take it anymore and we called 911 and the ambulance took him to the hospital. They did an EKG and watched him for a while. They told us Robert’s heart was o.k.; it’s probably just all the acid in his stomach, so they sent us home with more prescriptions. We had medical supply deliver a hospital bed to make Robert more comfortable, he is also on Oxygen and taking breathing treatments. For some reason his oxygen level has dropped so they are going to get that back up, and the breathing treatments are to help open up his airway. When we were at the hospital Robert got to use suction and that helped him more than anything, he did not have to rise up and spit. When we got home from the hospital my Dad and I went to the medical supply store and got a suction we can use at home, also picked up more prescriptions. Michael Chase stayed home with Robert and fed him and also put some liquid down his tube. I do not know what I would have done without My Dad and Michael being here. With keeping up with all the medicines, oxygen, feedings, hydrating it is too much for one person to do. Sandi is on her way up, so Robert will have 4 people taking care of him. I am so thankful for her, even though there are 3 of us now, we are pretty exhausted. I told my Dad that the chemo and radiation is kicking Roberts butt, but it is kicking the care takers butt also. We just can not seem to get one step ahead of what Robert needs. Sandi who is an RN has her work cut out for her. Hopefully the next report will be a good one.
Robert and Judy
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Hallelujah A Great Update for Robert!
(click photos to see full size)
February 21, 2007
Wednesday
I just have to tell everyone what the power of prayer has done for us and for the non-believers I am here to tell you I have witnessed the transformation of a man that was begging me to take him to the hospital a couple of nights ago to a man that heard Grandpa Tucker was almost here so he jumped on his 4 wheeler and took off to meet him down the road. If you all could have seen the look on my fathers face when he drove up; it was priceless. I don’t think he is convinced yet that I have not been lying to him just to get him down here. Robert’s night and morning was bad as it has been the last few days, he could not sleep and started having muscle spasms and still very nauseated. We went to 12th radiation treatment and then had 4th chemo treatment, the chemo nurse pumped Robert with lot’s of fluids, he was unable to speak he could not even take a very small sip of water with out bringing it back up. I could tell his coloring was improving after the 2nd bag of fluids. When we got home Robert actually emptied the bathroom trash can all by himself and without me even asking him to. I was very grateful, next thing I know he went outside and got his 4 wheeler out of the shop and he was gone. He was gone for about 45 minutes; I was worried and thought I should go look for his sorry butt. But he came riding up with a big ole grin on his face. Of course I jumped all over him because of the sun exposure to his neck. You can see in the picture Oscar was excited Daddy was feeling better too. I just can not tell you the difference in Robert. We are so thrilled and we know not to take these great times for granted. Robert said getting back to work and riding that 4 wheeler is his goals. I could not wait to update the blog and let everyone know how wonderful Robert’s afternoon has been with thanks to all of you and our Heavenly Father!
Lots of Love and Gratitude,
Robert and Judy
Ps. Dana, Robert said to tell Jimmy, Robert Olen said when he gets better he will come see him.
Wednesday
I just have to tell everyone what the power of prayer has done for us and for the non-believers I am here to tell you I have witnessed the transformation of a man that was begging me to take him to the hospital a couple of nights ago to a man that heard Grandpa Tucker was almost here so he jumped on his 4 wheeler and took off to meet him down the road. If you all could have seen the look on my fathers face when he drove up; it was priceless. I don’t think he is convinced yet that I have not been lying to him just to get him down here. Robert’s night and morning was bad as it has been the last few days, he could not sleep and started having muscle spasms and still very nauseated. We went to 12th radiation treatment and then had 4th chemo treatment, the chemo nurse pumped Robert with lot’s of fluids, he was unable to speak he could not even take a very small sip of water with out bringing it back up. I could tell his coloring was improving after the 2nd bag of fluids. When we got home Robert actually emptied the bathroom trash can all by himself and without me even asking him to. I was very grateful, next thing I know he went outside and got his 4 wheeler out of the shop and he was gone. He was gone for about 45 minutes; I was worried and thought I should go look for his sorry butt. But he came riding up with a big ole grin on his face. Of course I jumped all over him because of the sun exposure to his neck. You can see in the picture Oscar was excited Daddy was feeling better too. I just can not tell you the difference in Robert. We are so thrilled and we know not to take these great times for granted. Robert said getting back to work and riding that 4 wheeler is his goals. I could not wait to update the blog and let everyone know how wonderful Robert’s afternoon has been with thanks to all of you and our Heavenly Father!
Lots of Love and Gratitude,
Robert and Judy
Ps. Dana, Robert said to tell Jimmy, Robert Olen said when he gets better he will come see him.
Footprints - Love From Mom and Benny!
Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,
“You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most, you have not been there for me?”
The Lord replied,
“The times when you have seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you.”
Mary Stevenson
Holding on To Faith!
February 20, 2007
Tuesday
Robert had another bad night Monday night. We went to Paris for the daily radiation treatment; he had to stop in the middle of therapy due to the congestion, nausea and pain. They let Robert rest a little, then they suctioned his throat and that allowed him to complete his treatment, so one more down and 24 to go. Robert lost another 5 pounds. The radiation doctor has set Robert up with a nutritionist and a respiratory therapist. Robert can not tolerate the Ensure so the nutritionist will give him exactly what he needs for his height and normal weight; it is suppose to be a lot softer on his stomach. Robert will get most of his nutrition during the night they will set him up on a bolus, I think hat is what it is called, it will be like an IV which will go thru his feeding tube. Robert has a long way to go and has already lost 11 lbs. The respiratory therapist will monitor him and make sure he is getting enough oxygen and also make sure pneumonia does not set in. Robert will sleep with a monitor on his finger and we will take it in with us to treatments everyday, they will download the results right there and will determine if his oxygen level is where it needs to be. I am sure you are like me this is way too much information for the normal person to understand. I am hoping the new nutrition they give him will help Robert. I just feel so helpless right now, it is so hard watching him suffer and not being able to do anything about it. I know better days are ahead for us, my dad is coming down tomorrow to keep us company, and we are looking forward to seeing him. Robert can not talk now or even swallow, so it will be nice just to be able to have a conversation with someone who can talk back. Thanks again so much for your comments. Robert just said his temperature is up to 99.6, gotta go do my nursing duties. Love and Best Wishes to all. Judy and Robert
Tuesday
Robert had another bad night Monday night. We went to Paris for the daily radiation treatment; he had to stop in the middle of therapy due to the congestion, nausea and pain. They let Robert rest a little, then they suctioned his throat and that allowed him to complete his treatment, so one more down and 24 to go. Robert lost another 5 pounds. The radiation doctor has set Robert up with a nutritionist and a respiratory therapist. Robert can not tolerate the Ensure so the nutritionist will give him exactly what he needs for his height and normal weight; it is suppose to be a lot softer on his stomach. Robert will get most of his nutrition during the night they will set him up on a bolus, I think hat is what it is called, it will be like an IV which will go thru his feeding tube. Robert has a long way to go and has already lost 11 lbs. The respiratory therapist will monitor him and make sure he is getting enough oxygen and also make sure pneumonia does not set in. Robert will sleep with a monitor on his finger and we will take it in with us to treatments everyday, they will download the results right there and will determine if his oxygen level is where it needs to be. I am sure you are like me this is way too much information for the normal person to understand. I am hoping the new nutrition they give him will help Robert. I just feel so helpless right now, it is so hard watching him suffer and not being able to do anything about it. I know better days are ahead for us, my dad is coming down tomorrow to keep us company, and we are looking forward to seeing him. Robert can not talk now or even swallow, so it will be nice just to be able to have a conversation with someone who can talk back. Thanks again so much for your comments. Robert just said his temperature is up to 99.6, gotta go do my nursing duties. Love and Best Wishes to all. Judy and Robert
Monday, February 19, 2007
Faith and Prayer
February 19, 2007
Monday
Robert had his worst night so far last night. He was in so much pain from the sores in his mouth and then on top of that he got sick to his stomach. Of course he blamed my homemade liquid diet, so now its nothing but Ensure and liquids. He was begging me to take him to the hospital due to his extreme pain. I got some pain medicine and nausea medicine down his feeding tube. That did help a little. Thru all the pain he was a trooper and went on to radiation and then we saw the radiation doctor. I was really scared Robert had pneumonia, but the doctor said Roberts lungs are clear, it is just the chemo and radiation doing what they are suppose to by killing everything good and bad.. The doctor said Robert has thrush. Melissa you are exactly right, the doctor has prescribed all those medications you named and they are in liquid form so we put them right in the feeding tube. You can not know how much your and Chris’s experience in fighting this ugly beast has helped us. I hope and pray the mouthwash medicine helps. Dr. Kurley said “the chemo is what is kicking Robert’s butt right now, but by Friday it will be the radiation”, which means we have some trying days and nights ahead of us.
Monday
Robert had his worst night so far last night. He was in so much pain from the sores in his mouth and then on top of that he got sick to his stomach. Of course he blamed my homemade liquid diet, so now its nothing but Ensure and liquids. He was begging me to take him to the hospital due to his extreme pain. I got some pain medicine and nausea medicine down his feeding tube. That did help a little. Thru all the pain he was a trooper and went on to radiation and then we saw the radiation doctor. I was really scared Robert had pneumonia, but the doctor said Roberts lungs are clear, it is just the chemo and radiation doing what they are suppose to by killing everything good and bad.. The doctor said Robert has thrush. Melissa you are exactly right, the doctor has prescribed all those medications you named and they are in liquid form so we put them right in the feeding tube. You can not know how much your and Chris’s experience in fighting this ugly beast has helped us. I hope and pray the mouthwash medicine helps. Dr. Kurley said “the chemo is what is kicking Robert’s butt right now, but by Friday it will be the radiation”, which means we have some trying days and nights ahead of us.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Prayer's for Healing
February 18, 2007
Sunday
We are home from spending the weekend at Sandi and Mick’s. Sandi thank you so much for taking care of Robert for me Saturday while I went to Dallas with Lisa Garvin and Lisa Wood. I can not tell you how nice it was to get out and spend the time with friends. I did not know how much I needed to get out until I did. Thank you so much for taking me to PF Changs. Man I love that restaurant. I had the lettuce wraps for dinner tonight. Yum Yum.. O.k. enough about me. When we got up Saturday morning Robert was not feeling well, and it has just gotten worse from there. He went and visited with friends in Canton and then went to see his brothers Billy and Larry. When he got back to Mick and Sandi’s he was exhausted. He now has sores on the inside of his mouth and on his tongue. He can not eat anything right now, so I made my first liquid meal for him to put in his feeding tube. I gave him ham, steamed carrots and cabbage with V8 Juice and water to liquefy. I am sure that sounds as nasty to ya’ll as it does to me, but he can not taste it anyway. Well he said the V8 made him sick to his stomach so I failed at my first liquid meal, but I promise Robert’s loved ones, I will keep trying and so far am refraining from grabbing the Drano. Robert has probably not said more than 20 words today. What he has said was “this is hell”!! Robert is losing his positive attitude, so I am asking friends and loved ones to encourage him with your special words and remember him in your prayers. He really needs it right now. This has been a tough day for him, but we see the radiation doctor tomorrow so hopefully he will give Robert something for the pain from the sores in his mouth. Thanks again to all.
Sunday
We are home from spending the weekend at Sandi and Mick’s. Sandi thank you so much for taking care of Robert for me Saturday while I went to Dallas with Lisa Garvin and Lisa Wood. I can not tell you how nice it was to get out and spend the time with friends. I did not know how much I needed to get out until I did. Thank you so much for taking me to PF Changs. Man I love that restaurant. I had the lettuce wraps for dinner tonight. Yum Yum.. O.k. enough about me. When we got up Saturday morning Robert was not feeling well, and it has just gotten worse from there. He went and visited with friends in Canton and then went to see his brothers Billy and Larry. When he got back to Mick and Sandi’s he was exhausted. He now has sores on the inside of his mouth and on his tongue. He can not eat anything right now, so I made my first liquid meal for him to put in his feeding tube. I gave him ham, steamed carrots and cabbage with V8 Juice and water to liquefy. I am sure that sounds as nasty to ya’ll as it does to me, but he can not taste it anyway. Well he said the V8 made him sick to his stomach so I failed at my first liquid meal, but I promise Robert’s loved ones, I will keep trying and so far am refraining from grabbing the Drano. Robert has probably not said more than 20 words today. What he has said was “this is hell”!! Robert is losing his positive attitude, so I am asking friends and loved ones to encourage him with your special words and remember him in your prayers. He really needs it right now. This has been a tough day for him, but we see the radiation doctor tomorrow so hopefully he will give Robert something for the pain from the sores in his mouth. Thanks again to all.
Prayer's for Healing
February 18, 2007
Sunday
We are home from spending the weekend at Sandi and Mick’s. Sandi thank you so much for taking care of Robert for me Saturday while I went to Dallas with Lisa Garvin and Lisa Wood. I can not tell you how nice it was to get out and spend the time with friends. I did not know how much I needed to get out until I did. Thank you so much for taking me to PF Changs. Man I love that restaurant. I had the lettuce wraps for dinner tonight. Yum Yum.. O.k. enough about me. When we got up Saturday morning Robert was not feeling well, and it has just gotten worse from there. He went and visited with friends in Canton and then went to see his brothers Billy and Larry. When he got back to Mick and Sandi’s he was exhausted. He now has sores on the inside of his mouth and on his tongue. He can not eat anything right now, so I made my first liquid meal for him to put in his feeding tube. I gave him ham, steamed carrots and cabbage with V8 Juice and water to liquefy. I am sure that sounds as nasty to ya’ll as it does to me, but he can not taste it anyway. Well he said the V8 made him sick to his stomach so I failed at my first liquid meal, but I promise Robert’s loved ones, I will keep trying and so far am refraining from grabbing the Drano. Robert has probably not said more than 20 words today. What he has said was “this is hell”!! Robert is losing his positive attitude, so I am asking friends and loved ones to encourage him with your special words and remember him in your prayers. He really needs it right now. This has been a tough day for him, but we see the radiation doctor tomorrow so hopefully he will give Robert something for the pain from the sores in his mouth. Thanks again to all.
Sunday
We are home from spending the weekend at Sandi and Mick’s. Sandi thank you so much for taking care of Robert for me Saturday while I went to Dallas with Lisa Garvin and Lisa Wood. I can not tell you how nice it was to get out and spend the time with friends. I did not know how much I needed to get out until I did. Thank you so much for taking me to PF Changs. Man I love that restaurant. I had the lettuce wraps for dinner tonight. Yum Yum.. O.k. enough about me. When we got up Saturday morning Robert was not feeling well, and it has just gotten worse from there. He went and visited with friends in Canton and then went to see his brothers Billy and Larry. When he got back to Mick and Sandi’s he was exhausted. He now has sores on the inside of his mouth and on his tongue. He can not eat anything right now, so I made my first liquid meal for him to put in his feeding tube. I gave him ham, steamed carrots and cabbage with V8 Juice and water to liquefy. I am sure that sounds as nasty to ya’ll as it does to me, but he can not taste it anyway. Well he said the V8 made him sick to his stomach so I failed at my first liquid meal, but I promise Robert’s loved ones, I will keep trying and so far am refraining from grabbing the Drano. Robert has probably not said more than 20 words today. What he has said was “this is hell”!! Robert is losing his positive attitude, so I am asking friends and loved ones to encourage him with your special words and remember him in your prayers. He really needs it right now. This has been a tough day for him, but we see the radiation doctor tomorrow so hopefully he will give Robert something for the pain from the sores in his mouth. Thanks again to all.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Weekly Update from Robert!
February 16, 2007
Friday
Hey everybody! A little update from me. Met Monday with Dr. Kurley [radiation] he said it is working like it is suppose to. The inside of my mouth is getting a little sore now; my taste buds are going away really fast. I weighed 220 lbs Monday, Wednesday 214 lbs. I’m still eating by mouth, but I have also been using my feeding tube getting ready when the time comes. It is not fun! But I know it is necessary to keep me going so I can get through this. I have been having a little nausea after chemo nothing to really complain about. I keep saying to myself over & over when I get radiation, chemo, or get to feeling bad, I say to myself IT SHALL ALL PASS! Met with Dr. Parkesh Wednesday [chemo] he said my red blood count & white blood count was great. I have been getting a cough so he prescribed anti-biotics for precaution. I have been doing my neck exercises, walking down by the river for fresh air when weather permits. I feel pretty good today so after my radiation this afternoon Judy, Oscar & I are going to my favorite other place to be when I’m not sick, & that is Sandi & Micks on Cedar Creek Lake!! I want to thank everyone who has been praying for us, for without you & Gods strength & guidance it would be a difficult road. He has given me a wonderful, caring, loving wife who is there every step of the way, she is my Hero! I love you Judy! Got to get ready for radiation, talk to you guys soon.
Friday
Hey everybody! A little update from me. Met Monday with Dr. Kurley [radiation] he said it is working like it is suppose to. The inside of my mouth is getting a little sore now; my taste buds are going away really fast. I weighed 220 lbs Monday, Wednesday 214 lbs. I’m still eating by mouth, but I have also been using my feeding tube getting ready when the time comes. It is not fun! But I know it is necessary to keep me going so I can get through this. I have been having a little nausea after chemo nothing to really complain about. I keep saying to myself over & over when I get radiation, chemo, or get to feeling bad, I say to myself IT SHALL ALL PASS! Met with Dr. Parkesh Wednesday [chemo] he said my red blood count & white blood count was great. I have been getting a cough so he prescribed anti-biotics for precaution. I have been doing my neck exercises, walking down by the river for fresh air when weather permits. I feel pretty good today so after my radiation this afternoon Judy, Oscar & I are going to my favorite other place to be when I’m not sick, & that is Sandi & Micks on Cedar Creek Lake!! I want to thank everyone who has been praying for us, for without you & Gods strength & guidance it would be a difficult road. He has given me a wonderful, caring, loving wife who is there every step of the way, she is my Hero! I love you Judy! Got to get ready for radiation, talk to you guys soon.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Robert and Judy,
Valentines Day is a Day for Recognizing and Honoring Love and I Can Think of No Better Example Than the Love That Has Been Shown Not Only by Your Family and Friends but Especially by Your Relationship Together. Robert You are Judy's Rock and Judy You are Roberts Rock and the Two of You Are Each Others Heart and Together Anything is Possible!
A Valentine For You!
Love does not demand its own way.
Love is not irritable,
and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged.
It is never glad about injustice but
rejoices whenever the truth wins out.
Love never gives up, never loses faith,
is always hopeful,
and endures through every circumstance.
Love will last forever....
I Corinthians 13:4-8
PS Sandi I found a box of tissues for you:)
LW
Friday, February 9, 2007
More Treatments Behind Us and Many Thanks to You All!
February 9, 2007
Friday
Robert has completed 2 treatments of chemo and 3 treatments of radiation. He is doing great. He has had no side effects from the treatments yet. Robert is now doing radiation Monday thru Friday and chemo once a week. We are hoping and praying Robert will just breeze thru the treatments and will be back to working in a couple of months. Michael has come up to entertain us this weekend. We are very grateful for the company. Thanks Mikey.
When I hear the following song I think of each person that has so lovingly and generously put their needs aside to be with Robert and I in this time of great need and despair. We want everyone to know that we are so grateful you are a part of our lives. We cannot say Thank You enough for your generous gifts and your lovely encouraging words. The transition has been easy due to our success in surrounding ourselves with only the best of people. Your acts of Humanitarianism will be held closely in our hearts and minds. Our appreciation and love for You All will never falter. Thank you so very much, may we one day have the luck and opportunity to repay that which Everyone has so graciously given.
Friday
Robert has completed 2 treatments of chemo and 3 treatments of radiation. He is doing great. He has had no side effects from the treatments yet. Robert is now doing radiation Monday thru Friday and chemo once a week. We are hoping and praying Robert will just breeze thru the treatments and will be back to working in a couple of months. Michael has come up to entertain us this weekend. We are very grateful for the company. Thanks Mikey.
When I hear the following song I think of each person that has so lovingly and generously put their needs aside to be with Robert and I in this time of great need and despair. We want everyone to know that we are so grateful you are a part of our lives. We cannot say Thank You enough for your generous gifts and your lovely encouraging words. The transition has been easy due to our success in surrounding ourselves with only the best of people. Your acts of Humanitarianism will be held closely in our hearts and minds. Our appreciation and love for You All will never falter. Thank you so very much, may we one day have the luck and opportunity to repay that which Everyone has so graciously given.
Rascal Flatts - My Wish Lyrics
I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
and each road leads you where you want to go,
and if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,
if it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,
But more than anything, more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
and while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.
I hope you never look back, but you never forget,
all the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
and you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
and always give more than you take.
But More than anything, Yeah, more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
and while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish. Yeah.
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
and while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
Robert Tells All about his New Mask:)
February 3, 2007
Saturday
Hello everyone,
Judy and I had to go back to Paris Friday to get my Jason mask from Friday 13th made. I will wear the mask during every radiation treatment. The mask will make sure my head is in the same position for each of the 35 treatments. They keep the mask in a freezer so it will be freezing when I put it on. We met my radiation nurses Friday, Maria Antoinette (black lady in picture) and Toni, and they went over everything I should expect from the radiation. They are great and I am looking forward to getting to know them better. They tell me I will like them and then ½ thru treatment I will not like them at all. I find that hard to believe they are wonderful. I told them I will be their favorite patient they have ever had. My radiation starts Wednesday, and they tell me it will not affect me until about the 2nd week of treatment. I am going to hold Maria and Toni to that.
On the way home from Paris Friday, Judy and I stopped in to see my buddy who owns Kiamichi Chevrolet (Tim Tomlinson) here in Broken Bow. Tim and his wife Judy did not know what was going on. I told Tim and asked him if he had a car we could use to go back and forth to treatments that got good gas mileage. Tim said “Robert, you do not worry about a thing, I will take care of it for you”. Tim is going to supply us a car to drive to treatments. Tim called Judy Saturday morning and said he and his wife were talking about my situation and his wife, Judy said they needed to do more, so they are not only taking care of a vehicle for us to travel back and forth in, but they are taking care of the gas also. I can not tell you what that means to Judy and I, God is still working in mysterious ways. We are just in awe and do not fully understand all the wonderful people who have reached out to help us. If anyone is looking for a new vehicle, please keep Kiamichi Chevrolet in mind. They are truly wonderful people.
Cassie and her boyfriend Chris came up for the weekend. We went 4 wheeling today with Robert’s boss Jeff Gibbs and his brother Gerald. We all had a great time; there was still a little snow in places. We are hoping I still have a couple of weeks of riding left before the radiation kicks in. The dirtiest 4 wheeler award goes to Cassie, she and Mudbug (my niece Morgan) do not like to slow down for the puddles. Hope everyone has a great superbowl party, Judy, Oscar and I can’t wait. Go Saints!!! (there you go Sani Ani)
Saturday
Hello everyone,
Judy and I had to go back to Paris Friday to get my Jason mask from Friday 13th made. I will wear the mask during every radiation treatment. The mask will make sure my head is in the same position for each of the 35 treatments. They keep the mask in a freezer so it will be freezing when I put it on. We met my radiation nurses Friday, Maria Antoinette (black lady in picture) and Toni, and they went over everything I should expect from the radiation. They are great and I am looking forward to getting to know them better. They tell me I will like them and then ½ thru treatment I will not like them at all. I find that hard to believe they are wonderful. I told them I will be their favorite patient they have ever had. My radiation starts Wednesday, and they tell me it will not affect me until about the 2nd week of treatment. I am going to hold Maria and Toni to that.
On the way home from Paris Friday, Judy and I stopped in to see my buddy who owns Kiamichi Chevrolet (Tim Tomlinson) here in Broken Bow. Tim and his wife Judy did not know what was going on. I told Tim and asked him if he had a car we could use to go back and forth to treatments that got good gas mileage. Tim said “Robert, you do not worry about a thing, I will take care of it for you”. Tim is going to supply us a car to drive to treatments. Tim called Judy Saturday morning and said he and his wife were talking about my situation and his wife, Judy said they needed to do more, so they are not only taking care of a vehicle for us to travel back and forth in, but they are taking care of the gas also. I can not tell you what that means to Judy and I, God is still working in mysterious ways. We are just in awe and do not fully understand all the wonderful people who have reached out to help us. If anyone is looking for a new vehicle, please keep Kiamichi Chevrolet in mind. They are truly wonderful people.
Cassie and her boyfriend Chris came up for the weekend. We went 4 wheeling today with Robert’s boss Jeff Gibbs and his brother Gerald. We all had a great time; there was still a little snow in places. We are hoping I still have a couple of weeks of riding left before the radiation kicks in. The dirtiest 4 wheeler award goes to Cassie, she and Mudbug (my niece Morgan) do not like to slow down for the puddles. Hope everyone has a great superbowl party, Judy, Oscar and I can’t wait. Go Saints!!! (there you go Sani Ani)
Thursday, February 1, 2007
First Chemo Treatment Out of the Way ! Yeah Way to Go Robert
Thursday February 1, 2007
Robert received his first chemo treatment today. Everything went really well. The treatment lasted about 3 hours. The nurse went over the chemo drugs and their side effects. The normal treatment should last about 2 hours. The first thing they did was start an IV and give Robert saline, then they gave him Benadryl, which takes about 20 to 30 min., then they gave him a anti-nausea med, which also take about 20 to 30 minutes. Then they administer the first chemo drug which is Docetaxel (common name is Taxotere) and then the 2nd drug which is Carboplatin (common name is Paraplatin). These drugs take about 30 minutes each to administer. Robert said he never felt anything and they told us the side effects usually do not show up until 2 or 3 days after treatment. They have prescribed him something for the nausea. I was reading about the drugs and their side effects, one side effect with the Carboplatin was “because of the way this drug acts on the body, there is a chance that it can cause side effects months or even years after the drug is used and the effects can be cancer such as leukemia.” Isn’t that the craziest thing?
We met with the radiation doctor after his chemo treatment. His name is Dr.Kerley, we really like him a lot, he looked just like my Uncle Dana. He has a real good sense of humor so he will be fun to work with. He loves to tell jokes and loves to hear them, so if anyone has any good jokes send them my way. Dr. Kerley is on the board of directors of the Texas Oncology something or other, he has really good credentials so we feel blessed he will be working with Robert. Robert will start his radiation next week. Dr. Kerley told Robert he should be ok until probably the end of February, then he will have trouble eating and drinking. He told Robert he was going to have to make him feel really lousy and then he would feel even worse, but he WOULD feel better again and WOULD be cancer free. We will continue to keep the site updated on Robert’s journey. Thanks again for sharing with us.
We met with the radiation doctor after his chemo treatment. His name is Dr.Kerley, we really like him a lot, he looked just like my Uncle Dana. He has a real good sense of humor so he will be fun to work with. He loves to tell jokes and loves to hear them, so if anyone has any good jokes send them my way. Dr. Kerley is on the board of directors of the Texas Oncology something or other, he has really good credentials so we feel blessed he will be working with Robert. Robert will start his radiation next week. Dr. Kerley told Robert he should be ok until probably the end of February, then he will have trouble eating and drinking. He told Robert he was going to have to make him feel really lousy and then he would feel even worse, but he WOULD feel better again and WOULD be cancer free. We will continue to keep the site updated on Robert’s journey. Thanks again for sharing with us.
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