What a terrific day. Terry was discharged this afternoon and our house is a home again. Karen left a message on the white board in the hospital room, "2009 started with a diagnosis and ended with a transplant, 2010 means remission". I will second that.
When we got home the front bushes were decorated with burgundy ribbons (the color adopted for multiple myeloma), the front hall had a beautiful Christmas lamppost that had been in the hospital room and there were many balloons wishing Terry a recovery and more burgundy ribbons.
After a traditional Polish Christmas Eve dinner we opened the presents that had been under the tree for the past few weeks. Our Christmas came a little late but it was the best one ever. God smiled on us today.
This is the last of the daily blogs as Terry's appointments, checkups, etc. are all sporadically set for the next few months.
Thank you all again, for your support, we are forever in your debt.
12/30/09
12/29/09
DAY 14 - HALLELUJAH
What a day! From the beginning to the end, it was a wondrous day. Terry's numbers continue to climb, she was perky and awake all day. Not one little nap as her energy climbs. Her IV fluids were cut by 50% and if she continues the progress she will lose all IVs tomorrow. Her doctor continues to say she could be home be the end of the week.
The dietician visited and told Terry that she will not have a lot of restrictions when she is discharged. There are some precautions to take, but a lot fewer than we thought there would be. In the afternoon two of Terry's best friends came by and they all swapped Christmas gifts. Terry had a blast joking, gossiping and just visiting with Jacqui and Betty Ann, both co-workers when Terry worked at the Livonia DPW. Another good sign is that I was given some prescriptions to fill for Terry as an outpatient. We are all praying she will be home for New Year's Eve.
The dietician visited and told Terry that she will not have a lot of restrictions when she is discharged. There are some precautions to take, but a lot fewer than we thought there would be. In the afternoon two of Terry's best friends came by and they all swapped Christmas gifts. Terry had a blast joking, gossiping and just visiting with Jacqui and Betty Ann, both co-workers when Terry worked at the Livonia DPW. Another good sign is that I was given some prescriptions to fill for Terry as an outpatient. We are all praying she will be home for New Year's Eve.
12/28/09
DAY 13 WE ARE BLESSED
Today has been pretty good. Terry's numbers are moving in the right direction, Dr Mineishi said again she will probably go home later this week, Terry forced herself to do some extra walking. It was a good day.
Right now, I am sitting in Terry's hospital room while she grabs a few zzzs. So I started to think (something I don't do often). Terry and I are truly blessed. This disease sucks but she has avoided the worst side effect that most transplant patients get. They often get blisters in their mouth, on their lips and in the throat. Some patients can't even drink due to the swelling and soreness and may require a tracheotomy. Terry lost her hair for the second time. Big deal-she looks cute in a babushka anyway. We have an outpouring of cards, food, gifts, calls, visits, e-mails from friends and relatives, friends of friends and relatives of relatives. People we have never met have sent along their prayers and well wishes. We've heard from and seen people that we lost contact with over the years. We are blessed that our small family has been able to be together during the entire transplant process. We have terrific insurance and it is a good thing because this ordeal can run $300,000 to $400,000. We are so fortunate to live close to the University of Michigan which is recognized as a Cancer Center for Excellence. We are only 30 minutes away. We are blessed that Dr. Mineishi, who is recognized by his peers as a leading expert in bone marrow transplant. God has smiled on us and we are blessed.
Right now, I am sitting in Terry's hospital room while she grabs a few zzzs. So I started to think (something I don't do often). Terry and I are truly blessed. This disease sucks but she has avoided the worst side effect that most transplant patients get. They often get blisters in their mouth, on their lips and in the throat. Some patients can't even drink due to the swelling and soreness and may require a tracheotomy. Terry lost her hair for the second time. Big deal-she looks cute in a babushka anyway. We have an outpouring of cards, food, gifts, calls, visits, e-mails from friends and relatives, friends of friends and relatives of relatives. People we have never met have sent along their prayers and well wishes. We've heard from and seen people that we lost contact with over the years. We are blessed that our small family has been able to be together during the entire transplant process. We have terrific insurance and it is a good thing because this ordeal can run $300,000 to $400,000. We are so fortunate to live close to the University of Michigan which is recognized as a Cancer Center for Excellence. We are only 30 minutes away. We are blessed that Dr. Mineishi, who is recognized by his peers as a leading expert in bone marrow transplant. God has smiled on us and we are blessed.
DAY 12 HAIR TODAY-GONE TOMORROW
Most of Terry's hair came out today. This has happened once before due to chemo. She is not her hair! With or without her hair, she is beautiful.
Her numbers are starting to come up! YEAH!!!! Dr. Mineishi told Terry that he hopes to send her home sometime this week. DOUBLE YEAH!!! She did get two units of blood and a unit of platelets to help boost those numbers.
Chuck and Caroal Philpot stopped by in the afternoon. We have known these wonderful people for many years but hadn't seen each other for 5-6 years. What a wonderful visit.
Pat and Cindi Kelly came by later in the evening. More good friends. We had a terrific visit with them. Friends are hard to come by and we have to try to see each other more often.
The past few days the UM hospital had a slew of TV trucks parked outside. The guy who "allegedly" tried to blow up a plane over Detroit was a guest of the burn unit. He has since been transferred to a federal prison just south of Ann Arbor. Cops, FBI, hospital security were all over the place. Good riddance to bad rubbish.
Her numbers are starting to come up! YEAH!!!! Dr. Mineishi told Terry that he hopes to send her home sometime this week. DOUBLE YEAH!!! She did get two units of blood and a unit of platelets to help boost those numbers.
Chuck and Caroal Philpot stopped by in the afternoon. We have known these wonderful people for many years but hadn't seen each other for 5-6 years. What a wonderful visit.
Pat and Cindi Kelly came by later in the evening. More good friends. We had a terrific visit with them. Friends are hard to come by and we have to try to see each other more often.
The past few days the UM hospital had a slew of TV trucks parked outside. The guy who "allegedly" tried to blow up a plane over Detroit was a guest of the burn unit. He has since been transferred to a federal prison just south of Ann Arbor. Cops, FBI, hospital security were all over the place. Good riddance to bad rubbish.
12/27/09
CHRISTMAS PLUS 1 = DAY 11
It was a very good day. Terry's numbers remain low and she may have to have a transfusion tomorrow if they don't start to go up. However Dr. Mineishi told her she is right where he thought she would be at this time and if things continue as expected she will probably go home next week. The house is empty without Terry being there. The other really good sign is that Terry started increased her walking and she stayed awake most of the day. I am taking those as early signs of her getting better and ultimate engraftment.
12/26/09
CHRISTMAS (DAY 9)
Terry's temperature is in control and that is a really good thing. Her first blood culture doesn't show any signs of infection. THANK GOD.
She slept most of the day until the evening when Karen and Anissa got in from their drive from Tennessee. Their arrival and the fact that our small clan was all together was the shining star on the tree. Terry beamed and talked it up as only a mother/daughter combination can do. However after two hours of talking and exchanging a few presents Terry got tired and we called it a night. Terry radiated during the day, when she was awake, in anticipation of the visit. We all laughed, cried and reminisced during the visit.
It was a wonderful and blessed CHRISTmas. Happy birthday Jesus and thank you for today.
She slept most of the day until the evening when Karen and Anissa got in from their drive from Tennessee. Their arrival and the fact that our small clan was all together was the shining star on the tree. Terry beamed and talked it up as only a mother/daughter combination can do. However after two hours of talking and exchanging a few presents Terry got tired and we called it a night. Terry radiated during the day, when she was awake, in anticipation of the visit. We all laughed, cried and reminisced during the visit.
It was a wonderful and blessed CHRISTmas. Happy birthday Jesus and thank you for today.
12/24/09
WEEK 2 - DAY 8
Her numbers continue to fall with one major exception - her temperature. Once her temp hit 100.4 the team went into action. They need to rule out any possible infection. Blood cultures, urine cultures, antibiotic given and a chest x-ray all were done within 1 hour of the elevated temperature. Now we wait for the results.
Today was a very tired day for Terry. She did get 6 laps of the ward accompanied by our son Jim. It is nice to see that moose protecting his Mom.
This is the first Christmas season that Terry hasn't been with her Mom. I have decided that there wasn't a 2009 for us, we are going to go from 2008 right to 2010 and pick it up the way it was in 2008. This cancer thing sucks but she will beat it with the grace of God and all of the prayers being sent on behalf of her getting better. Thanks to all of you for being there for Terry.
Today was a very tired day for Terry. She did get 6 laps of the ward accompanied by our son Jim. It is nice to see that moose protecting his Mom.
This is the first Christmas season that Terry hasn't been with her Mom. I have decided that there wasn't a 2009 for us, we are going to go from 2008 right to 2010 and pick it up the way it was in 2008. This cancer thing sucks but she will beat it with the grace of God and all of the prayers being sent on behalf of her getting better. Thanks to all of you for being there for Terry.
WEEK 1-DAY 7
Hopefully week 1 went out like a lion and week 2 comes in like a lamb. Day 7 was the worst day yet. Terry's blood count, for almost all parameters, is way down. She was so tired that she only got out of bed for the trips to the bathroom. No exercise today. She had a massage scheduled that had to be delayed as her platelet count is so low, that a massage could cause bruising.
The one highlight of the day was when Marie and Jess came to visit. Marie went to high school with Karen a long time ago and has been a true friend since then. Jess is new to us, a very nice girl and a pleasure to meet.
The one highlight of the day was when Marie and Jess came to visit. Marie went to high school with Karen a long time ago and has been a true friend since then. Jess is new to us, a very nice girl and a pleasure to meet.
12/23/09
DAY 6
Wow-has it been a week that Terry has been in the hospital? Sometimes it seems as if this hospitalization started yesterday---other times it feels like a month.
Terry is doing better than expected, in terms of possible problems. Side effects have been held to a minimum, probably because Terry is following all orders and suggestions from the medical staff to a T. She is an ideal patient. Her husband is a pain, but that is to be expected.
Three very wonderful things happened on DAY 6. In chronological order they are as follows:
Paul and Margie Beauregard visited in the early afternoon. Terrific friends and wonderful people. We have known them for about 13-14 years. As we got to know each other we learned how closely our lives paralleled. We have a lot in common except they go to Florida each winter while we stay in Michigan. Yes-I am jealous.
Later in the afternoon Terry received a shot of G-CSF. This is a drug that will help stimulate her stem cells to increase at a faster rate and induce the cells to become neutrophils, leucocytes, platelets and a bunch of other type cells. This drug will help Terry get better quicker and ultimately come home. It is lonely at home without Terry there. Our poor cat (Lacey) is having Meowmy withdrawal. She is becoming CATatonic.
Finally, in the early evening two more wonderful friends, Harry and Dixie Doerr came to visit. Terry's room has some Christmas motif about it and the centerpiece is a beautiful lamppost adorned with lights, garlands and ornaments. Harry and Dixie had given this to us just a week ago. It will become a mainstay of our annual decorations. This year it is a light for Terry's future and a reminder of Harry and Dixie. We normally spend New Year's Eve with the Doerr's. Can't go out with them this year, but we are planning New Years with Harry and Dixie for next year.
Terry is doing better than expected, in terms of possible problems. Side effects have been held to a minimum, probably because Terry is following all orders and suggestions from the medical staff to a T. She is an ideal patient. Her husband is a pain, but that is to be expected.
Three very wonderful things happened on DAY 6. In chronological order they are as follows:
Paul and Margie Beauregard visited in the early afternoon. Terrific friends and wonderful people. We have known them for about 13-14 years. As we got to know each other we learned how closely our lives paralleled. We have a lot in common except they go to Florida each winter while we stay in Michigan. Yes-I am jealous.
Later in the afternoon Terry received a shot of G-CSF. This is a drug that will help stimulate her stem cells to increase at a faster rate and induce the cells to become neutrophils, leucocytes, platelets and a bunch of other type cells. This drug will help Terry get better quicker and ultimately come home. It is lonely at home without Terry there. Our poor cat (Lacey) is having Meowmy withdrawal. She is becoming CATatonic.
Finally, in the early evening two more wonderful friends, Harry and Dixie Doerr came to visit. Terry's room has some Christmas motif about it and the centerpiece is a beautiful lamppost adorned with lights, garlands and ornaments. Harry and Dixie had given this to us just a week ago. It will become a mainstay of our annual decorations. This year it is a light for Terry's future and a reminder of Harry and Dixie. We normally spend New Year's Eve with the Doerr's. Can't go out with them this year, but we are planning New Years with Harry and Dixie for next year.
12/22/09
DAY 5
It is hard to believe that Terry's stem cells are now 5 days old. I am not one to push for child labor, but I'll make an exception in this case. I want those cells doing what they are supposed to do and to do it NOW. Listen up cells, Santa is watching!!!
Day 5 was pretty good for Terry. She is more tired than she has been in the past, but that is to be expected as her blood counts continue to fall.
There were a few very high points in the day. At noon the mail delivery person came into the room and announced to Terry that she had won. She won the letter lottery as there were 31 cards delivered to Terry. Lots of love, prayers and well wishes were delivered with those cards. Terry welled up on more than one occasion while reading the cards. Thank you all for helping make her day.
Right after lunch, Cindy Reese came to visit. It was quite apropos for Cindy to be the first non family visitor as her husband Mark recently underwent an allogeneic stem cell transplant. He received his cells from a donor whereas Terry received her own cells. Cindy brought lots of joy, advice and empathy to Terry and me. Cindy is one of our heroes, as is Mark.
Later in the afternoon Jim and Heidi Cole came by. We have known them for over 10 years and they, too, are wonderful people. Their visit cheered Terry up immensely. Truly terrific people, even if they are Ohio State fans.
Day 5 was pretty good for Terry. She is more tired than she has been in the past, but that is to be expected as her blood counts continue to fall.
There were a few very high points in the day. At noon the mail delivery person came into the room and announced to Terry that she had won. She won the letter lottery as there were 31 cards delivered to Terry. Lots of love, prayers and well wishes were delivered with those cards. Terry welled up on more than one occasion while reading the cards. Thank you all for helping make her day.
Right after lunch, Cindy Reese came to visit. It was quite apropos for Cindy to be the first non family visitor as her husband Mark recently underwent an allogeneic stem cell transplant. He received his cells from a donor whereas Terry received her own cells. Cindy brought lots of joy, advice and empathy to Terry and me. Cindy is one of our heroes, as is Mark.
Later in the afternoon Jim and Heidi Cole came by. We have known them for over 10 years and they, too, are wonderful people. Their visit cheered Terry up immensely. Truly terrific people, even if they are Ohio State fans.
12/20/09
DAY FOUR
For those of you who don't know, hemoglobin is that part of the blood that carries oxygen to the tissues and oxygen helps with energy. Terry's drugs are knocking her hemoglobin down (to be expected) yet the docs still want her to walk, walk, walk. She did the same number of laps today (16) as yesterday but they were laborious. She is pushing herself! I am proud of her.
Funny thing---Terry's hair is now coming in mostly black. Kind of sexy! Her Dad had black hair, when he had hair.
We had a nice surprise today, a group called the Arbor Consort were caroling throughout the cancer wards. They were dressed in period costumes and sang victorian holiday carols. What a nice treat. They blended in perfect pitch.
Funny thing---Terry's hair is now coming in mostly black. Kind of sexy! Her Dad had black hair, when he had hair.
We had a nice surprise today, a group called the Arbor Consort were caroling throughout the cancer wards. They were dressed in period costumes and sang victorian holiday carols. What a nice treat. They blended in perfect pitch.
DAY THREE
A pretty good day. Terry has been encouraged to do a lot of walking. Today she started, in earnest, to train for a mini-marathon. The ward has an oval hallway where patients are urged to walk. She trudged around the ward for 16 times dragging her IV pole. Her pole has been named Stella, a good Polish name for a Pole. Whenever Terry leaves her room she has to wear a mask. We look like the Lone Ranger and Tonto while doing her exercises.
12/18/09
DAY TWO
A better day than yesterday. Hopefully tomorrow will be even better. Terry got out of bed and did some walking exercises twice today. Got to keep up the exercise as it helps prevent pneumonia. With all the IV fluids she is receiving she heads to the bathroom every 20 minutes or so---that has to count for something.
The big news of the day is that her blood counts are doing as expected. Certain blood measurements have to get to very low levels before her stem cells start to kick in and the blood counts start going back up to normal.
Everyone in the hospital has been exceptional. However the cooks might benefit from a cooking class or two.
The big news of the day is that her blood counts are doing as expected. Certain blood measurements have to get to very low levels before her stem cells start to kick in and the blood counts start going back up to normal.
Everyone in the hospital has been exceptional. However the cooks might benefit from a cooking class or two.
12/17/09
DAY ONE
We were told that there would be good days and there would be not so good days and to take each day one at a time, because what happens today won't predict what tomorrow will be like. Well today was one of those not so good days. Between Ativan, Compazine and Zofran Terry was able to keep her two pieces of toast and a few crackers down. "Better living through chemistry".
Everyone here is pleased with her progress. I just wish she were a bit more comfortable. As Scarlett said, "Tomorrow is another day."
Everyone here is pleased with her progress. I just wish she were a bit more comfortable. As Scarlett said, "Tomorrow is another day."
12/16/09
DAY ZERO
At 12:40 PM Terry's stem cells surged back into her to begin the transplant process. Approximately 3 to 3 1/2 million of those puppies are now back where they belong--in her bloodstream making their way to her bone marrow and ultimately becoming new white cells, red cells, platelets and other types of cells. They are armed to the teeth and are ready to fight and beat the crap out of any cancer cells in Terry. GO CELLS!!!!!!
A funny side effect of the transplant is caused by the preservative DMSO. Terry has an aroma of creamed corn about her. This is not unusual as some patients smell like mint, some like garlic, some like creamed corn. I guess it could be a lot worse. For some reason every time I come into her room I am hungry. Maybe I'll just nibble on her ear.
This hospital is a bit of a conundrum at times. Last night Terry was told that her vital signs would be taken every 4 hours, blood draw would be at 6 AM, she would get some medications at 9 PM, some IV added at 10 PM again at 11 PM. She was then informed if she needed something to help her sleep to ask for it. She did at 11:15PM. I guess she will rest when she gets home again.
While Terry was getting her stem cells transplanted Jim and I were in the room while Karen was on the phone. It was a total MacDonald experience. Lots of happiness, anticipation, crying, hope, fear, nervousness, just about every feeling possible.
The people here are wonderful. The other night the chemo nurse brought Terry a large pink Christmas stocking filled with useful goodies. Today a volunteer lady gave Terry a quilt with cats on it. She gets to keep the quilt. We can't say enough good things about the personnel here. Even the parking lot attendant is terrific.
Today has been a awesome day filled with wonder.
A funny side effect of the transplant is caused by the preservative DMSO. Terry has an aroma of creamed corn about her. This is not unusual as some patients smell like mint, some like garlic, some like creamed corn. I guess it could be a lot worse. For some reason every time I come into her room I am hungry. Maybe I'll just nibble on her ear.
This hospital is a bit of a conundrum at times. Last night Terry was told that her vital signs would be taken every 4 hours, blood draw would be at 6 AM, she would get some medications at 9 PM, some IV added at 10 PM again at 11 PM. She was then informed if she needed something to help her sleep to ask for it. She did at 11:15PM. I guess she will rest when she gets home again.
While Terry was getting her stem cells transplanted Jim and I were in the room while Karen was on the phone. It was a total MacDonald experience. Lots of happiness, anticipation, crying, hope, fear, nervousness, just about every feeling possible.
The people here are wonderful. The other night the chemo nurse brought Terry a large pink Christmas stocking filled with useful goodies. Today a volunteer lady gave Terry a quilt with cats on it. She gets to keep the quilt. We can't say enough good things about the personnel here. Even the parking lot attendant is terrific.
Today has been a awesome day filled with wonder.
SHE'S IN
Terry was admitted to the hospital yesterday. She was hooked up to her new close friend, an IV pole. For the next few weeks wherever Terry goes--- her new friend goes. Her transplant will take place later today. For those who wanted her address and telephone number they are:
Theresa MacDonald
> University of Michigan Hospital
> 1500 E. Medical Center Drive
> Room 8A-111
> Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0110
>
> Her hospital telephone number is 734-936-8111
For those who wanted to visit, the visiting hours are 10 AM-10PM.
KEEP THE FAITH!
Theresa MacDonald
> University of Michigan Hospital
> 1500 E. Medical Center Drive
> Room 8A-111
> Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0110
>
> Her hospital telephone number is 734-936-8111
For those who wanted to visit, the visiting hours are 10 AM-10PM.
KEEP THE FAITH!
12/10/09
SLIGHT CHANGE OF PLANS
Today has been a day at the hospital. Terry started at 10 AM with a blood draw, saw Dr. Mineishi (transplant oncologist) and Isabella (Nurse Coordinator) from 11 AM to. 12:30. At 1:30 she had an extensive pulmonary test and tonight at 10:30 PM she will have a full body MRI.
So far-so good all of her tests are going well and she is still on to be admitted on the 15th. The change is that the stem cell transplant will start the morning of the 16th. We thought she would be getting the transplant the evening of the 15th. Evidently we were mistaken.
For those of you who want to visit, the visiting hours are 10 AM to 10 PM. You probably may want to call ahead to make sure she is up to having visitors. My cell phone is 734-634-8598. She cannot have any fresh flowers, plants, fruit or vegetables. When I get her address I know Terry would appreciate any cards and especially your prayers. I will blog her address asap.
I will probably write a daily update once the transplant takes place.
Merry CHRISTmas to all.
So far-so good all of her tests are going well and she is still on to be admitted on the 15th. The change is that the stem cell transplant will start the morning of the 16th. We thought she would be getting the transplant the evening of the 15th. Evidently we were mistaken.
For those of you who want to visit, the visiting hours are 10 AM to 10 PM. You probably may want to call ahead to make sure she is up to having visitors. My cell phone is 734-634-8598. She cannot have any fresh flowers, plants, fruit or vegetables. When I get her address I know Terry would appreciate any cards and especially your prayers. I will blog her address asap.
I will probably write a daily update once the transplant takes place.
Merry CHRISTmas to all.
11/27/09
WILL THE BUMPS IN THE ROAD NEVER END?
December 1st is cancelled for Terry's transplant. She came down with a severe sinus infection and has been treated with antibiotics and a few other medications. She can't have the transplant with an active infectious process.
We saw the Transplant Oncologist earlier this week and now the tenative date is 12/15/09. That will mean Christmas in the hospital.
On a positive note, our daughter Karen and her housemate Annisa visitied for Thanksgiving. Although the visit was brief it was wonderful. They bring a lot of sunshine to us. We are thankful for every day, for all of our freinds, relatives and well-wishers.
We saw the Transplant Oncologist earlier this week and now the tenative date is 12/15/09. That will mean Christmas in the hospital.
On a positive note, our daughter Karen and her housemate Annisa visitied for Thanksgiving. Although the visit was brief it was wonderful. They bring a lot of sunshine to us. We are thankful for every day, for all of our freinds, relatives and well-wishers.
11/13/09
AWESOME NEWS
We arrived home last night from our visit to Rome. There was a phone message from the Nurse Coordinator at the University of Michigan. The message was short but very sweet. "It's a go! Doctors Mineishi and Bloom conferred and Terry will have her stem cell transplant as scheduled on December 1st". Now we enter the next phase of her road to subduing the cancer.
A few people have asked some questions of this disease and the ensuing treatment. FYI, the stem cell transplant has nothing to do with embryonic stem cells. Terry will be receiving her own cells which were harvested from her bone marrow a few months ago. They have been "on ice" and will be defrosted just before the transplant procedure.
When Terry goes into the hospital for the transplant, we are told the procedure is rather anti-climatic. The cells are thawed and she will be given them by I.V. However due to a high dose of chemo given the day preceding the transplant Terry will have no ability to fight infections and will have to be hospitalized for a least two weeks and in a controlled form of isolation. She will be able to have visitors but whenever she wants to leave her room she will wear a mask. Terry will not be able to have fresh flowers or plants as they carry molds, fungi and other things that could do her harm.
Our prayers have been answered for this news. We know that a lot of people have been praying for her too. Please don't stop praying for her yet as she now needs a successful transplant. Thank you all for what you have done. God bless you all.
11/11/09
STILL ON THE FENCE
Terry had her biopsy last Wednesday and we were hoping to have the results by Monday-Tuesday at the latest. Both days came and went. Finally at 4 PM on Wednesday Dr. Bloom (Terry's Primary Oncologist) called with the results. Good news and we aren't sure news. The good news is that Terry's cancer cells in her marrow are down to 2 %. The goal was to get to less than 5%. However, the pathologist who examined Terry's bone marrow slide saw something that bothered her and she decided to do a few extra tests. That is why the results were late, as we were waiting for these added tests. The new tests show small islands of cancer within the core of the biopsy that are up to 15% cancer cells. Dr. Bloom wants to confer with the Transplant Oncologist (Dr Mineishi) to assess the viability of the impending stem cell transplant. To make a long story short we don't know and won't know if Terry will have her stem cells transplanted on December 1st or not. We are still up in the air and will probably know more early next week.
In the meantime Terry has a 10 day hiatus from chemotherapy so we are in Rome, New York visiting her family. Terry's Mom is in a nursing home, so this visit has been a jolt of good for both of them.
On a more macabre note, we visited our gravestone which was put in place a few weeks ago. I wanted to lie down and have our picture taken, but saner heads prevailed. Terry said "no".
I will update this blog next week, hopefully with good news. Please keep the prayers and good thoughts soming.
In the meantime Terry has a 10 day hiatus from chemotherapy so we are in Rome, New York visiting her family. Terry's Mom is in a nursing home, so this visit has been a jolt of good for both of them.
On a more macabre note, we visited our gravestone which was put in place a few weeks ago. I wanted to lie down and have our picture taken, but saner heads prevailed. Terry said "no".
I will update this blog next week, hopefully with good news. Please keep the prayers and good thoughts soming.
10/14/09
All Dressed Up and No Place To Go
Terry sure looks happy for a girl with cancer. The picture on the left is a recent photo taken for our church directory. The caption for this item is really a misnomer. We have been going a lot of places and visiting with many of our friends and family. We just dress more casually.If everything goes right, Terry is scheduled to be admitted to the University of Michigan on December 1st for her stem cell transplant. We won't know about that for at least a few weeks.
This week Terry had to stop her chemotherapy as she has developed a case of shingles. I am no longer the only pain in her side. We don't know what this will do to her moving forward with the transplant. We will learn more in about a week.
This disease really sucks! Just when things seem to start to fall in line, something else appears and screw things up. Through all of this, Terry has had a great attitude. Someone wrote on the blog that she is a hero. She's got my vote too.
Soon after the transplant and the disease is put into remission, we will get all dressed up and have plenty of places to go.
Thanks again to all for your prayers, cards, notes, calls, etc. We are blessed to have so many friends.
10/1/09
A NEW MONTH - ANXIETY AGAIN
Terry has been taking her new regimen for a few months now and is tolerating it well. We thought her next bone marrow biopsy would be at least a month away. To make a long story short, Dr. Bloom ran another test measuring Terry's light chains. No, not the type you have in your closet! Her multiple myeloma is a kappa light chain type. Her kappa free light chains have been averaging anywhere from 22.1 to 25.4. Normal should be 0.33 to 1.94. Since she has been on this new medication, Velcade, her kappa light chains have dropped to 2.74. That is a remarkable result! However the proof of the pudding is in the tasting - in this case testing. We received a message from the transplant team, that they want a bone marrow biopsy scheduled soon. If that comes back as they suspect Terry will now get her stem cell transplant the first week of December.
Now it is time to get nervous again. If you have any extra prayers left, please say one for Terry to do well in the biopsy.
Thank you all for the cards, prayers, calls, e-mails, concerns and prayers. Yes, I meant to say prayers twice.
Now it is time to get nervous again. If you have any extra prayers left, please say one for Terry to do well in the biopsy.
Thank you all for the cards, prayers, calls, e-mails, concerns and prayers. Yes, I meant to say prayers twice.
9/10/09
A day that wasn't
09/09/09 came and went---just like all the rest of the days this year. This was supposed to be the day the magic started and it wasn't. It was just a day.
Terry is doing well on her new medication regimen. She now takes Velcade on day 1, 4, 8 and 11-then a 10 day reprieve. That is one course and then she starts all over again. No major side effects, however her back aches more than in the past and she still tires with too much exertion. We are keeping the chasing down to once a day.
Her hair is making a comeback. We don't know if it will be straight, curly, gray, blond, red, black, brown or calico. Whatever it will be nice. We are having our pictures taken next week for the church directory. Terry will have a babushka.
Thanks to everyone for all that you do. You mean more to us than you will ever know.
Terry is doing well on her new medication regimen. She now takes Velcade on day 1, 4, 8 and 11-then a 10 day reprieve. That is one course and then she starts all over again. No major side effects, however her back aches more than in the past and she still tires with too much exertion. We are keeping the chasing down to once a day.
Her hair is making a comeback. We don't know if it will be straight, curly, gray, blond, red, black, brown or calico. Whatever it will be nice. We are having our pictures taken next week for the church directory. Terry will have a babushka.
Thanks to everyone for all that you do. You mean more to us than you will ever know.
9/2/09
A NEW DAWN STARTS TODAY
Terry started on a new therapy today. She will now be taking a product called Velcade which causes the cancer cells to stop dividing and hopefully causes the cancer cells to die. Cancer cells appear to be more sensitive to these effects than normal cells. (Let's hope that is the case with Terry).
She will be on this course of therapy for 3-4 regimens before another bone marrow biopsy is done. Each course of therapy is 21 days-so it will be it will probably be sometime in November before any results are in.
She had been on a drug called Revlimid for the past 7 months. This drug is a derivative of thalidomide. For those old enough to remember thalidomide is the drug associated with "flipper babies" due to birth abnormalities. It was used in the '60s for pre-partum nausea prevention. (I am recalling the information about thalidomide from my memory recesses-so I might be off a little).
There are a whole host of things that can be tried. Unfortunately they all take months before evaluation.
Terry is doing fine both physically and emotionally. She gets more and more energy each day and has a very positive attitude. I know the attitude is helped a lot by having so many good friends with tons of prayers and well wishes.
Her physical strength is probably due to the fact that we continue to chase each other around the house. (Some things never change).
She will be on this course of therapy for 3-4 regimens before another bone marrow biopsy is done. Each course of therapy is 21 days-so it will be it will probably be sometime in November before any results are in.
She had been on a drug called Revlimid for the past 7 months. This drug is a derivative of thalidomide. For those old enough to remember thalidomide is the drug associated with "flipper babies" due to birth abnormalities. It was used in the '60s for pre-partum nausea prevention. (I am recalling the information about thalidomide from my memory recesses-so I might be off a little).
There are a whole host of things that can be tried. Unfortunately they all take months before evaluation.
Terry is doing fine both physically and emotionally. She gets more and more energy each day and has a very positive attitude. I know the attitude is helped a lot by having so many good friends with tons of prayers and well wishes.
Her physical strength is probably due to the fact that we continue to chase each other around the house. (Some things never change).
8/25/09
A bad day - but this too will be overcome
Terry got the results of her biopsy today. The cancer has grown from 8% to 23% of her marrow. In spite of the medicines, etc. that she took to lower her cancer count, the disease increased. That puts everything on hold. No transplant on 09/09/09-no hospitalization, just a new weapon or two to try and get this cancer under 5% of her bone marrow cells so she can have her transplant.
We don't have a timeline yet, for the new drug cocktail she will be taking. However we continue to keep our faith and know we are in the hands of experts who will do everything in their God-given power to help. In the meantime keep those thoughts and prayers coming in. When we learn anything it will be posted.
We don't have a timeline yet, for the new drug cocktail she will be taking. However we continue to keep our faith and know we are in the hands of experts who will do everything in their God-given power to help. In the meantime keep those thoughts and prayers coming in. When we learn anything it will be posted.
8/19/09
From January to August 2009- A brief history
January - a terrible month - Terry is diagnosed with multiple myeloma (cancer of the bone marrow). Fortunately this is a cancer where there have been some recent strides and we are blessed with a top-notch Hematologist/Oncologist, Dr. Robert Bloom.
February through March - showed little physical improvement, however Dr. Bloom was encouraged by Terry's hematological responses.
May - Terry has her 2nd bone marrow biopsy and her cancer cells have fallen from 68% to 8%. The ultimate goal is less than 5% cancer cells. This is also the month that she meets Dr. Shin Mineishi. He will be her physician to handle everything pertaining to her transplant. He is the Director of the Transplant Department at the University of Michigan. We have all the confidence in the world with him.
June and July - Terry has her own stem cells removed. It was a long and arduous process as she had to go through two procedures to get enough cells. The goal was 6,000,000 and she pumped out almost 7,000,000 of those suckers. That will be enough for two stem cell transplants should she need a 2nd one. July was a good month!
August - Terry has completed all of her therapy that we pray will bring her cancer cells to less than 5%. A bone marrow biopsy was done on 08/19 by Dr. Bloom. We will have those results on 08/24. Evidently Dr. Mineishi is confident that her bone marrow biopsy will suffice for the transplant as Terry is scheduled to be admitted to the University of Michigan on 09/09/09 to have her stem cell transplant on that day. We think 09/09/09 is a very good sign. As many know 666 is sometimes construed to be evil. If you tip 666 upside down you get 999 and all of the evil is drained and the numbers are filled with goodness and hope. That is our story and we are sticking to it!!!
February through March - showed little physical improvement, however Dr. Bloom was encouraged by Terry's hematological responses.
May - Terry has her 2nd bone marrow biopsy and her cancer cells have fallen from 68% to 8%. The ultimate goal is less than 5% cancer cells. This is also the month that she meets Dr. Shin Mineishi. He will be her physician to handle everything pertaining to her transplant. He is the Director of the Transplant Department at the University of Michigan. We have all the confidence in the world with him.
June and July - Terry has her own stem cells removed. It was a long and arduous process as she had to go through two procedures to get enough cells. The goal was 6,000,000 and she pumped out almost 7,000,000 of those suckers. That will be enough for two stem cell transplants should she need a 2nd one. July was a good month!
August - Terry has completed all of her therapy that we pray will bring her cancer cells to less than 5%. A bone marrow biopsy was done on 08/19 by Dr. Bloom. We will have those results on 08/24. Evidently Dr. Mineishi is confident that her bone marrow biopsy will suffice for the transplant as Terry is scheduled to be admitted to the University of Michigan on 09/09/09 to have her stem cell transplant on that day. We think 09/09/09 is a very good sign. As many know 666 is sometimes construed to be evil. If you tip 666 upside down you get 999 and all of the evil is drained and the numbers are filled with goodness and hope. That is our story and we are sticking to it!!!
8/10/09
Terry's Mom celebrates her 90th birthday
Our immediate family from left to right in the rear:
Dick/Richard-Terry in her babushka, Karen, Jim
seated Terry's Mother Mary Podkowka
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