Cancer Sucks

Doing Great!!!

2008-04-10T01:26:00.002-04:00

I feel good...just like I knew I would.... I was up and out of the hospital in 5 days, after the surgery. It was a bigger surgery than I anticipated, but judging from my health status, it was a success. I have gotten bored with this cancer business. I have had chemo every week since Feb. 21st. except March 20th. Now that flu season has subsided and the sun is shining I hope to get out of the house more and instigate some fun. I did manage to have my family for Easter(18 adults for dinner).

My mood is improving. I played with a girlfriend for a few days, quilted with my sisters, pulled a few weeds this week and made it to the gym 2 times. I have to shape a new life now that I don't work and believe you, I enjoy this leisure time. I say it is like being a teenager, but you have money in your pocket and for the most part you are the boss. I do have a few Dr. bosses and a few friends and family bosses who take a bit of wind out of my sails so I fly more cautiously.

This week after chemo, I am begging RAD to go to Keenland. We are also leaving on Friday for an eastern tour: NY, Boston and PA Amish country. I need to get out of this house. Love and prayers to you all.

Ruth is home

2008-02-11T20:17:00.000-05:00

Ruthie was able to come home this afternoon. It is great to be in your own house and bed. She is doing quite well.

They are predicting a snow storm tonight - it will be nice to be able to watch it from home and not have to worry about driving home from Lexington in it.

Good News

2008-02-09T16:56:00.000-05:00

The surgery went as expected. "No surprises" is good news. Ruthie has been up and walking the last two days and is drinking a lot of fluids. She is right on schedule with her recovery.

Thanks to everyone for their support and prayers.

Rose Ann

Surgery Feb 6th

2008-01-28T11:50:00.000-05:00

I realize I have not been a very good blogger. It is just that cancer really sucks. I must admit having two chemotheraphies that did not work took the wind out of my sails. I am feeling better now that we appear to have a treatment that is working (Avasten and Abraxane). I am also going to have surgery to remove the cancer from my liver and my pelvic/adominal cavity on Feb. 6th. PROGRESS!!

I don't want anyone to think I have been sitting home "belly aching" about my cancer. I have been busy. I still try to quilt a bit, exercise a bit and read a bit. I also have traveled a bit. We had a family Christmas in the north west in and around Portland. Ray, MAB and I visited MEB. MEB also arranged for us to go to the coast. Ray, JH (MEB's man) and I did some crabbing, we all whale watched (I saw 2 whales) and we celebrated the holidays. My family and friends helped me celebrate my 56th birthday. One of my sisters even came from CA. to help celebrate my birthday. Life is great!!!!

quilting

2007-12-03T13:24:00.000-05:00

Well, RAD and I have been very busy. We made this quilt. It is called a wack and stack.

We also made a baby quilt for our newest great neice. I have been feeling well and as a result I have been able to paint the kitchen and scrub the laundry room. What I use to do in a day, now takes about 3 days, but slow and steady I get to it! So, I guess you can tell, I tolerated the Taxotere just fine. My next chemo is Thursday. I know I have not been very current with this blog. I am saving other news for after the next chemo.

Feeling Good

2007-11-03T17:46:00.000-04:00

Well, MAB my daughter was married 9-22-07. I have never seen a more radiant bride. Love was certainly visible in the way she and her husband look at each other. It was all GOOD.

I have been quilting and doing gardening.

My health has been incredibly good. The radiation was fine and effective. My last ct scan showed the cancer is shrinking and I am responding to treatments. My last CA-125 was a 46. I think <21>

Anyway, it has been a terrific fall. I am looking forward to seeing my daughters and sister in Palm Springs and Phoenix during the Thanksgiving holidays.

Medical Plan

2007-09-17T08:54:00.000-04:00

Well, tomorrow I have brachytherapy to a tumor in my pelvis. This is radiation. I will have that again next week. Dr. Kudimoti had invited me back for 30 days of radiation after the completion of the other medical interventions. I am continuing on the Carboplatin and Taxol. There is plans for a surgery as soon as the chemo makes some real progress. I will have 2 surgeons: Dr. DePreist and Dr. McGrath. Dr. DeP. gets the pelvic area and Dr. McG gets the liver. There are plans to use radio frequency ablation on the liver. That is the use of microwaves. The other good news we got was that the drug Avastin has been approved to fight ovarian cancer and has had some success. We will be using that drug too. So, anyway, I think we have cancer on the ropes and it soon should be abliterated. I am looking forward to having all of this behind me.

Well it appears we are punting

2007-08-29T09:36:00.000-04:00

I myself perfer to go for the first down, but the Dr. said we would punt. I do not get to have surgery or radio frequency ablation. The CT scan said there was too much cancer. He has put me back on the original chemo, pacitaxel and carboplatin. That was my kick ass chemo, so I am rallying the troops for some cancer ass kicking. I even got a bonus shot of Nuelasta.

My jelly was a second place at the Boone County Fair. I was the only one in my category. As I heard more than once at the homemaker/quilt guild meeting, "Those judges are tough!". Yes, now that I am retired, I am aspiring to make quilts and try some domestic endeavors. My family will get a belly laugh at all of this domestication.

Day to Day, I continue to feel pretty good. I get a little tired from time to time, but That may be coupling with my strong urges to procrastinate. MAB wedding Sept. 22nd. Looking forward to it!

Dr. Update

2007-08-10T13:25:00.000-04:00

Well, I worked my last official day at Lincoln Elementary Wed. and saw the doctor and had chemo Thurs. Busy 2 days and I also entered canned green beans and canned peach jelly at the Boone County Fair on Monday. Whew, busy weeK. I am using up my sick days and then taking disability retirement. I had planned to retire in 3 years and I am just taking a giant step to retirement. This retirement thing is not so bad!!! I'll let you know how my canned goods do.
The health news? Well, I also saw the Doctor Thurs. The cancer is not responding as well to chemo as we would like. He saw a few nodules above my virgina. I was complainng of pelvic pressure. So here is what I think is good news, given the circumstance. After the doctor sees my ct scan results on Aug 23rd, he will schedule surgery. Dr. DePreist will remove the cancer in the pelvic area and a Dr. McMath will do a Radiofrequency ablation to the cancer on my liver. This ablation method has been done for years and has proven success. A needle like instrument probe, guided to the site by computer tomography (CT), is inserted into the tumor, where it emits high frequency alternating current. The current heats the tumor and destroys it. Besides getting the good news that we will have a tough approach to the cancer with surgery, I will be able to return to the carboplatin chemo that worked so well last time. In my opinion, I feel good knowing we have an agrressive plan, which I know will kick cancer's ass.
Well, I worked my last official day at Lincoln Elementary Wed. and saw the doctor and had chemo Thurs.. I am using up my sick days and then taking disability retirement. I had planned to retire in 3 years and I am just taking a giant step to retirement. This retirement thing is not so bad!!! The health news? Well, I also saw the Doctor Thurs. The cancer is not respsonding as well to chemo as we would like. He saw a few nodules above my virgina. I was complainng of pelvic pressure. So here is what I think is good news, given the circumstance. After the doctor sees my ct scan on Aug 23rd, he will schedule sugery. Dr. DePreist will remove the cancer in the pelvic area and a Dr. McMath will do a Radiofrequency ablation to the cancer on my liver. This ablation method has been done for years and has proven success. A needle like instrument probe, guided to the site by computer tomography (CT), is inserted into the tumor, where it emits high frequency alternating current. The current heats the tumor and destroys it. Besides a tough approach to the cancer with surgery, I will be able to return to the carboplatin chemo that worked so well last time. In my opinion, I feel good knowing we have an agrressive plan, which I know will kick cancer's ass.

doctor update

2007-07-13T08:33:00.000-04:00

Saw Dr. DeP yesterday. My physical exam was good. The new plan is to do a total of 6 rounds of Doxil once a month. This means my treatments will go into November as opposed to Aug 23rd. The change is due to recent research, and best practices. Overall doxil has been very good to me, but the question remains, is it being good to my cancer? That can not fully be decided until after 3 or 4 treatments. I will get a CT scan after my third chemo to see if it is working. I feel some positive changes, but have a few mild symptoms. Yes, I visualize bomgs dropping one the cancer and in yoga I breath out toxins. Although I must confess I have more faith in prayers and positive thoughts.

The Battle Continues

2007-07-10T14:43:00.000-04:00

am a sore loser and have perhaps a bit too proud. That is my excuse for being remiss on keeping up with the blog. I felt like a failure, and that I had let many people down who had prayed and boosted my morale during my last bout with cancer, when my cancer returned. MEB says I should just call it the reurn of the Jedi and now really have a show at kicking cancer's ass. I'll go with that.

My Chemo on 6-20-07 went fine. My CA-125 was oly a 54. My muga-scan showed I was an 85%, I think. That is good. Previous to this chemo, I was given what I called the "wheel of misfortune" regarding liposomal doxorubicin. The list side effects and pictures were scarey. Once again as with many things in life, the anticipation was worse than the treatment. My next chemo is 7-12-07.

Currently I feel great. I have been trying to do Yoga everyday. I allow myself a maximum of 2 hours of gardening. Most days, it is an hour and half. I have picked 8 tomatoes, 3 zuchini, and I would say 3 lbs. of green beans. I like many people wish it would rain. My flowers are blooming.

MAB has finalized the majority of the wedding plans. Everyone has a dress to wear. We will be looking good! Eating and dancing...celebrating... Life is good!!!!

I

chemos began

2007-07-10T14:39:00.000-04:00

I tolerated the new chemo. It has a few more cautions. It can make me even hotter. Feeling Hot, hot, hot! Teasing, seriously I am to stay out of the sun, heat, and I must eat cool foods and take cool showers. They even said not to vacuum or do dishes. My husband said the Dr. and I got together on that one. It is hard to follow all those directions when I feel so good.

It's Back

2007-06-14T18:54:00.000-04:00

I feel good. I am strong and would by all accounts say healthy. There is just a few details that say otherwise.
Here are the details. My CT scan on 6-4-07 showed a re-occurence of some of the cancer. I saw the Dr. on 6-12-07. Had a CA-125 test, which was a 46 (elevated indicates possible cancer). Using this information and my symptoms (stomach noises, a bit of pain, loss of appetite and a change in bowels), it was concluded that I have had a relapse. I will have a heart scan Tuesday and Chemo on Wed. This is a different chemo, doxorubicin. I will have to stay out of the sun, wear loose clothes and avoid sweating. I am also to apply ice to my wrists and ankles for the first 5 days after chemo. I will once again be restricted from crowds, children, raw fruits and vegetables. My last chemo, if everything goes according to schedule, will be Aug 22. It should take a few weeks to get strong and then a new me.

My Doorway Welcoming Me Back To Work

2007-04-14T09:53:00.000-04:00

And my results of my April CA-125 was a 7. Look out I feel GOOD!!!!!

Back to Work

2007-04-14T09:45:00.000-04:00

I went back to work March 28th. It was a very exciting and emotional day. I really had missed the students and staff. They welcomed me back, royally. The doorway was decorate. On my table were gifts. It was very emotional day. It felt good to be part of a very important mission, educating young children. The best thing is being well! I do miss my sisters who were a big part of my life these past months. I only worked three days and then I was off for spring break. Good timing if you ask me.

Sister Celebration

2007-03-21T14:14:00.000-04:00

We had a "Sister's Celebration" last week. My nurses resigned. However, my sisters will remain my coaches, trainers and yogis. I know I can count on them. I can scoop up their love and energy as needed, to continue on life's path.
They also helped me in an important moment, picking out my daughter's wedding dress. I well treasure this memory forever.

I will also treasure forever the love and hope they have given me as I kicked cancer's ass.

Saw the doctor

2007-02-22T11:41:00.000-05:00

As my CT scan indicated, the doctor said I can start back to a my "normal" life. I am in what I call "victory mode". I have "kicked cancer's ass" . I am allowed to eat raw fruits and vegetables again. I can not get enough fruit! I celebrate with oranges, grapes, bananas and apples! I am trying to put myself on an exercise routine and healthy eating so I will be fit to go back to work! I hope to return to work March 28th. I have really missed school...the staff...the students...the routine. It won't be long. I also miss my hair.

And the CT Scan says?????

2007-02-16T10:37:00.000-05:00

Had a CT scan Valentine's Day. Even though the CT report was all good, I was quite numb when I got the results. I would liken it to when you see a runner stagger off after they cross the finish line. Kicking cancer's ass is a bit mentally and physically exhausting. I knew I had done something great, when I saw the sparkle in the eyes of my sister, RAD and my husband, Ray; and when I heard the bubbling voices of my family on the phone.

I will quote the best parts of the CT Scan report: "Excellent response to theraphy with no evidence of residual metastatic disease". The ascites has resolved (fluid) ...masses along falciform ligament resolved, pelvic organs including bladder and adnexal regions normal...peritoneal implants and subcapsular liver masses resolved. It also said unremarkable chest (that's good too, I suppose) CT.

Now, I start my new lease on life. I am full of all the love I have received during this battle with cancer. I know I am very blessed to have had all of the support from my husband, family, friends, doctots and co-workers. THANK YOU!! I think we have done it!

The last chemo and an 8

2007-02-01T20:06:00.000-05:00

Thank you everyone for you kind cards, phone calls, visits, food, gifts,thoughts, meals, jokes, kid pictures, and prayers. I must mention the meals, driving, and special care and love I have received at home from my husband and family has also been appreiciated. I could not have done this so successfully without you!. Let's give Dr. DeP and the nurses and techs some credit too.

It appears we have accomplished our mission! I am very appreciative for all you have done.Well, at last, I completed my 6th and last chemo today. I saw Dr. DeP and he said since I had had good numbers ( 20, 12) for 9 weeks and his examinations of my body showed no problems, that 6 chemos would be enough and he felt confident I was doing good. My CA-125 was an 8, today. Quite a significant difference from an 1174, that I had initially.

I get a nuelasta shot tomorrow. I prefer to call it "nuenasty", because it makes my joints sore and I ache. It does help rid me of anemia and in the cough and flu season, I anm going to suck it up and get well! The next plan is a ct scan in 2 weeks. They will scan me from the neck down. I am glad they are including my lungs and breasts. My next doctor appointment is 2-20-07. The appointment after that is April 5th. I hope Dr. DeP says I can go back to work on the 5th. I am sure he will say yes. Although, he said I could no paint the kitchen, today.

Feeling good!

2007-01-22T18:07:00.000-05:00

Thank you for all my Happy Birthday wishes. Well, I have been feeling pretty good. I got back the results of my complete blood counts and the counts are similiar to when I started chemo. That is a good thing. I think I am mending! My CA-125 was a 12 on Jan.11, well below the baseline of 21.

Having to stay home has been a challenge. While others have gossip and news of the community, I can only offer news from my house. Yesterday, there was a limping coyote on our property. I asked my husband to shoot it. No luck! Last spring a coyote killed two fawns. There is a shining hawk bothering the birds at my feeders. Wow, do they ever clear out and stay gone for a bit of time. This particular hawk is known to eat song birds. It has been determined that the blue heron at our pond is, in fact, eating salamanders. I love to observe nature, but I look forward to visiting with more people. My last chemo is Feb. 1st. I am anxious to be done with chemo.

Happy Birthday!

2007-01-17T11:30:00.000-05:00

This is Mary Ann. It's my mom's birthday today, so I hijacked her blog to let everyone know about it.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

More Good News

2006-12-30T11:59:00.000-05:00

The first good news is, my daughter MAB is engaged! How wonderful. She is marrying a guy we all appreciate and look forward to adding to our family.

Next, my Health good news. I was lacking red and white blood cells at my last chemo. I was given shots of nuelasta and procrit. I now have normal levels of red and white blood cells. I am hopeful that these shots will carry me through the last 2 chemo treatments. I have one Jan 11 and the last treatment on Feb. 1. The aches of my bones was worth the gain in cells.

Lastly but not least, both MEB and MAB were here for Christmas. MEB had been here since Thanksgiving, and she helped me stay motivated and have fun. I will miss my children, but I am proud of what woderful lives they have made for themselves.

Happy New Year. Look out 2007 because I plan to make up for some lost time!

And the Ca 125 Number is ????????????

2006-12-21T22:09:00.000-05:00

Well, I needed to get a number lower than 21 on my CA 125 cancer blood marker. I started at 1175 then 300 then 46 and the new number is 20. Yes, we are all very happy. I've got cancer on the "mat" and I am ignoring all cries for mercy. Thanks to everyone, the doctors, medical personnel and thanks to all of you who have given your time to send positive thoughts and prayers. It is working.

Pictures of Thanksgiving and me with the wig

2006-12-19T11:56:00.000-05:00

Ray and I

The cousins' table The Redheads
in the foreground are mine.

The hostesses and I

Still doing well

2006-12-11T10:42:00.000-05:00

Well, I have been feeling great! I am up and active. I have watched all the Christmas shows. My favortie the Grinch is on Tuesday.
Today, I am getting my lab work done. My white blood cell count continues to decline. However, it is not so low I can't have my next chemo. My red blood cells are doing fine. All this blood cell news is typical of chemo. I am going to the chiropractor, also today. My sinuses have been bothering me and my neck is tight. This laying around business is bad for the back! My car is also going to get an oil change and a check up. MEB calls all of this daily grind, part of being a housewife. Makes me miss work even more!

Doing Great

2006-12-07T10:17:00.000-05:00

After chemo three, I am doing great. In fact I would say I did better than the first two treatments. There was a day of fatigue, but I worked through that on the eliptical trainer, making trips to the barn and setting up my birdfeeders. It seemed once I got my heart rate up and sweated a bit, the fatique left. Having my daughter MEB here may be the true explanation. She is joy. What a great playmate. I look forward to each day.

My birdfeeders are just very busy. I love bird watching. I saw a pileated woodpecker yesterday. It did not come to the feeders. It was working the maple tree in the front yard. Well, it looks like the weather is saying, settle in for a long winter's nap.

FORTY-SIX

2006-11-30T23:11:00.000-05:00

Yes, my CAT 125 (Cancer markers) is at a 46. I started at 1175. After surgery and one chemo, my score was 300. After the second chemo my score is FORTY-SIX! I asked my chemo nurse today if to get to a forty-six this quickly is unusual, and she said, yes. Even she cried tears of joy! Thank you all!!!! Thank you all!!! Your prayers, kind words, support have enabled me to further done the path to recovery. We are "kicking cancers ass"

Next Chemo

2006-11-28T09:19:00.000-05:00

My next chemo is Thursday. I am full of anticipation, good and bad. I can not wait to get my new CAT 125 numbers to see how much more cancer has been eraticated. My situational depression appears to be gone. I am going to try to participate in some wellness groups. I exercise each weekday morning at 6:30 a.m.with "Body Electra". They use weights on TV, I use cans of corn. I have gone to the YMCA once and hope to go again soon. I am thinking gentle yoga and the cross trainer.

Thanksgiving

2006-11-28T09:15:00.000-05:00

I am feeling pretty good. Most of my surgery pain is gone. I can drive. Both my girls were in town for the holiday. We shared the holiday with my husband's family and my family. It was great seeing everyone. I look forward to the rest of the holiday season. I have not laughed that much in a very lond time. I also ate and ate. We all did.

Saw Dr.

2006-11-17T12:57:00.000-05:00

Good news! I saw Dr. DeP yesterday. I can drive, exercise moderately and resume most of my activities. Relief! He, also, said that I might only have to have 6 chemo treatments. I asked if the chemo would get stronger, and he said no. If this is all chemo has, I can take it! My blood counts are good.

I complained that cancer was depressing. He assured me it was situational and asked what thing I missed the most. I said the children, work! He did not declare me insane for missing my job. He said, I still can not be around children who could be sick. He did suggest I try to get out a bit, but try to avoid germs and sick people. He suggested I try to do more things that I enjoy. I certainly can do that; beading, sewing, cooking and playing with my friends and family.

I am also the proud owner of 2 blue bottles on milk of magnesia. I can remember grandmothers having this sitting by the sink or displayed in the bathroom. Yes, I eagerly embraced this laxative. The good news is, it works. Amen. If you do not remember the grandparents blue bottles, perhaps you remember metal ice trays? What an event that was to get an ice cube! My sisters and I reminiscensed about these torturous tryas when I was in the hospital. Your hand would stick to the bottom of the tray, you had to run them under water and the ice would melt, or worse, it would fall into the dirty sink or the floor. Yes, if you could conquer getting ice, you were prepared to take on the neighborhood. Our poor icetrays were so beat up! I think mom employed a hammer to get her ice.

tolerated

2006-11-14T14:50:00.000-05:00

I spent the weekend making fur pillows. I was doing this in my sleep. Yes, my hair is shedding like a dog. I have what I would call duck down left on my head. Now, I guess I am in the market for some head covering. I see a wig in my future.

So, I think I have tolerated my second chemotheraphy pretty well. I had very little nausea, which could be a result of a drug called Kytril. I am down to one nap a day. I have less and less surgery pain. My daughter MAB says I am kicking cancer's ass!

Greeat Day

2006-11-09T22:14:00.000-05:00

The best news! My CA 125 (ovarian cancer marker blood test) was a 1175 beffore surgery and the initial chemo. Today it was 300. Now that is progress. Thank you everyone for you support, prayers and medical workmanship.

Also, I got my second chemo today. Good-by cancer cells. Good-by other fast growing cells. I am psyched to get well. Truthfully, I was an anxiety mess this am. I get nervous with every first time thing. Today Chemo was in a new space for me. I also thought I would see my doctor. That dr. visit is at chemo #3. I weeped. Three nurses came to listen to my sad story of not appeciating the dr. assistant. After I got over the whoa of me, the procedure began and it was all good.

Getting ready for the fall out

2006-11-07T11:12:00.000-05:00

HPIM1510
Originally uploaded by momblau.

Sunday and Monday morning I carried a paper tape lint picker upper with me. My hair has begun to thin. I got this cut Monday afternoon. There is less fall out now. Husband offered to go to his parent's house and get the clippers his dad used on him growing up. I pointed out that the only clipping experience he had, was our dog, once. I politely declined his offer. He seemed a little too excited. I play a new game every morning, now. First I feel if I have hair, and then I check to see if I have eyebrows and eyelashes. My husband usually makes a statement each morning validating that I still have hair. I get my next chemo Thursday! Good-by cancer cells! Who cares about hair?

My sisters

2006-11-07T10:50:00.000-05:00

HPIM1496
Originally uploaded by momblau.

There they are cheering me up and providing support. RAD doing my insurance work and CBM finishing my chemo blanket. CBM even put a pocket on the blanket so it folds into a pillow.

Blanket

2006-11-07T10:46:00.000-05:00

HPIM1501
Originally uploaded by momblau.

This is the blanket my sisters and I made so I can be warm when I get my chemo.

Is this particular?

2006-11-05T12:33:00.000-05:00

1. I do not want to hear stories about people who are presently dying of cancer or died from cancer.
2. I do not want people telling me a forecast of nausea and weakness from the chemo.
3. I do not want to envision my death either, thank you.
Do you think it is particular of me to tell people I do not want to hear the above stuff?

If it is ok, I will take my battles one step at a time and try to stay positive! I can use a lot of positive support. I am going to win this battle!

sisters day

2006-11-05T12:21:00.000-05:00

Friday my sisters came to the house and helped finish a chemo blanket. We were informed the chemo room is cold. We put 2 rectangular peices of fleece we had purchased at a fabic store together. You cut strips a long both sides and try the 2 peices together. We did a lot of laughing. It turned out pretty good. Carloyn is putting the finishing touches. A pocket on the back so it will turn into a pillow.

My hair is falling out. Best laugh of the day was, when I said something "catty" to Carolyn and she blew on my hair. I quick pretended I was gathering up hair out of the air and putting it back on my head. We do have fun!

Just some facts

2006-11-03T10:47:00.000-05:00

Everyday I get stronger.
I have lost 25 pounds.
Everyday I feel better.
I loose more hair too.
My resolve strengthens with the help and will power of my family and friend circle.
I believe the cancer is loosing.
I am grounded.
But come spring, I will be up and out!!!!

Typical day

2006-11-03T10:36:00.000-05:00

Wake between 6:00 and 7:00 Drink 10-12 oz. of water.
Watch the first 1-1 1/2 of the Today show from in bed.
Out of bed and into the living area of the house. I putz around and eat my cheerios and a warm decaf coffee milk (I cooould oly enjoy the smell of coffee until recently).
Turn off the TV. Shower at 10:00 or so and start planning my morning nap.
I try to be up by 11:30 to see the Price is Right (Showcase show down)and the noon news.
Then some very kind people come and visit and usually bring lunch or a supper. Oh, I like that. Sometimes there is even a dinner. You know, I am blessed with people who care and show it everyday!!!
Nap time is usually 3:30 and I awaken for the 6:00 news.
Ray comes home and we have dinner. Then I vegetate on the couch and can make it to 10:00. My daughter says, our family are champion sleepers. I get up at 3:00 am to go to the bathroom and then right back to sleep.

home sweet home Thank You

2006-10-28T10:30:00.000-04:00

Wow! My life has completely changed. From bicycling Labor Day weekend to having a major surgery and a stage 3 cancer diagnosis within a month, now that can bring you to your knees. I have been so blessed through all of this with a devoted husband,family and friends. From the moment I was diagnosed, I was supported and guided. My family dr and gyno helped with referrals. The best tip I got was from my nephew, Dr. Ed Meier. He said to go to UK Hospital, The Markey Cancer Center and see a Dr. De Priest. He said, they are the best. My sister Rose Ann researched it and UK and Ohio State are in the top three hospitals for treating Ovarian Cancer. My brother in law Kurt was able to get me into the clinic. It will be hard for you to get me to stop singing the praises of the Markey Cancer Center and Dr. De Priest.

Right now though, I would like to thank everyone who has cared for me. My sister Rose Ann and Ray have been tireless in my care. They slept at the hospital and have supported my every step, literally. My sisters Caroline and Mary Frances also came to my aid. We had such a neat sister day at the hospital. Caroline was fresh from her own knee sugery and Mary F flew all the way from San Jose. Kurt and brother Bob, thank you for supporting and helping to guide my care. My daughter Michelle came from Portland and did home care. I was completely overwhelmed with flowers and cards,and still am overwhelmed. Thank you friends. The education community has been especially kind in their prayers and cards. You know what, it really helps to hear from you. Knowing that you care and are praying for me, gives me the courage to fight this wretched disease.

Thank you to all of the wonderful cooks, who have so kindly fed me and kept me company (Ken, Cindy, Rosie, Caroline, Rose Ann and Marianne).

I love you all and am very grateful to you. I will beat this disease!!!

great news

2006-10-27T10:31:00.000-04:00

Someone in my family has had a life changing event in her life too! Today is a most excellent day. I will walk with a little extra pep in my step. My darling neice, Ashley Meier, passed the bar exam. Yeah ASHLEY! You are awesome!

ruthie and rice

2006-10-22T17:10:00.000-04:00

Isn't it nice
Just to eat rice
Eat it in a booth
Eat it with Ruth

We like rice
So we'll eat it twice
Eat it with a tooth
Eat it with Ruth

We want to boast
That we love toast
Eat it in a booth
Eat it with Ruth

We want to boast
That we love toast
Eat it with a tooth
Eat it with a Ruth.

we have poop

2006-10-22T17:06:00.000-04:00

Today was an exciting day. Youngest daughter is in town for the weekend. We've been watching movies, eating, and taking lots of naps. Yesterday, we even went for a few walks outside to enjoy the nice weather.

This morning and afternoon we had visitors. But, our most exciting visitor came around 3:00. Poop! After 11 days of waiting, we had action!

The next chemo is November 9th.

Stitches and tubes are out - by Rose Ann

2006-10-21T08:56:00.000-04:00

October 20

This is a banner day. Ruthie and Hubbie went to the Cancer Center and the Doctor removed her staples and the drain tubes. Her balls are gone, but the doctor said "She is as tough as nails". We already knew that. All is healing well.

The trip to Lexington was tiring so a nap was in order. Hubbie and his best buddy (besides Ruthie) went to see the Elk at a state park (a picture hunt for those of you who are concerned). Big Sister spent the night and it was a great night.

The medicines that she is taking for nausea are really helping. We had chicken, mashed potatoes and corn for dinner.

October 21

Portland daughter arrived at 2 am and Ruthie was happy to see her. She went back to sleep and didn't get up until 7 am. Her first full night's sleep. We are on the road to recovery.

Niece Dentist gave us some hints about handling the dry mouth from the chemo and some ways to clean teeth without irritating the gums. We are going to try that today.

Cheerios were the big hit at breakfast today.

Home At Last - (written by Rose Ann)

2006-10-20T10:09:00.000-04:00

The Princess had her blood test this morning. She was able to go to a hospital not far from home for the draw. We tease that she is going to have to have a transfusion to replace all the blood they take.

So far the Kytril is staving off any bad side effects of the chemo. Ruthie had a nice lunch and visited with Hubbie's sister who brought the really great vegetable soup and bread fresh from the oven. She also snuck an oatmeal and raisan cookie while Big Sister unpacked groceries and Hubbie put them away. It is great to see her eat and walk around her own kitchen.

The Fight is On - by Rose Ann

2006-10-18T16:48:00.000-04:00

October 18

Ruthie slept well last night, ate breakfast, walked, showered and shampooed by 10 am. After the pharmacist went through all the warnings about the drugs she would be getting and their side effects, the Taxol drip was started. Ruthie is doing great with it and has declared that "the fight is on - knock 'em dead" It takes several hours for the Taxol and then she will have her dose of Carboplatinum. After that she gets to go home. Even it is evening or late, we will head back up north.

We really appreciate the staff's help in providing a cocktail of meds beforehand to manage the side effects. We expect to leave with a handful of prescriptions and information on her treatment. They have already given us a number of pamphlets and booklets on eating healthy, dealing with cancer and taking chemotherapy.

The princess has been spoiled with good care, and seems a bit concerned that she will be in the hands of amateurs. Hubbie and Big Sister are up to it. A daughter will be here over the weekend to add her help and ideas for care.

Getting home was interesting. It took more time than we thought to check out, so armed with prescriptions, her bear, flowers and stuff, we headed home in the VW Bug. It has a lot of leg room in the front and we added a pillow under the seat belt for comfort. Of course, we weren't going to get home before her pharmacy closed. Middle Sister looked up pharmacies near by, gave directions (Google is great!) over the cell phone and the pharmacist filled her pills without a hitch. Princess sat out in the parking lot on the phone, while Big Sister got the pills.

We arrived safely home at 10:30 pm. Hubbie was waiting with open arms. Ruthie downed a pain pill, got tucked in bed and slept for 6 hours uninterupted. She got up for a pill, and went back to sleep until 9 am. It was great to be in her own bed and worth the night drive to see her so comfortable at home.

From Markey Cancer Center - written by Rose Ann continued

2006-10-17T18:44:00.000-04:00

Day 6 - October 15

Brother-in-law was here when Ruthie opened her eyes this morning. We are so grateful to him - he had the conncetions that got her into this wonderful hosptial After a short visit, Ruthie greeted the day. The doctor came by and said that she could start chemo, if she could eat and keep it down. What an incentive! However, her bowels are being lazy and still haven't awakened fully. We never thought we would wait with baited breath to hear her break wind.

She is walking every two hours - one of the staff said "that she as tough as woodpecker's lips."

California sister stayed with Ruthie all day, and Big Sister stayed home and rested. California sister even supervised a shower and shampoo. Color this day good!

Day 7 - October 16

Again, a bad day. It is so frustrating for her to move forward and then fall back. "It is normal" just doesn't cut it. The gas is causing problems with her eating and she had an upset stomach Back on IV and ice chips. She walked even though she hurt.

Middle sister who had knee surgery the day Ruth came to Lexington decided she was well enough to take a road trip to Lexington. All four sisters were together for the day. Big Sister went shopping while she was off, and we all got matching fuzzy socks. She got a "cancer bear, too". We are so lucky to be sisters who are also friends. Middle sister helped her walk down the hall. Ruthie and she were each trying to show off about who could walk the best, and they finally laughed and cut the pace.

It wasn't a train, it wasn't a steam boat whistle on the way home from Tall Stacks - it was Ruthie tooting at 11 pm. The cheers were heard all the way in Cincinnati. Now that everything is awake, things will get better.

Day 8 - October 17

The day has started great. Ruthie ate a bit of yogurt and soda crackers for breakfast. Her Rock helped her put on jammie bottoms. Now there is no danger that she will moon the floor on her walks. The walk has extended to the "bridge to the hospital". She even got a new "ball" - it is larger now she has Big Balls.

Hubbie got to go home and Big Sister is the day and night duty nurse. It is a sign that Ruthie is getting stronger. Hubbie needs a full night's sleep in a proper bed. We can't have him getting sick.

Ruthie ate some lunch and had her lemon sherbert and 7 up. She had been dreaming of that since day 1. Little Brother dropped by on his way home from Louisviile. She was sure glad to see him. They are the two youngest siblings.

For supper she had some rice and turkey. We are on track for removing stitches and staples, drains (she will miss those balls) and then chemo and then home.

At this rate she could be in her own bed tomorrow night.

Her favorite nurse will not be here tomorrow, nor will her Rock. She said a sad goodbye to both, but we will visit them when we come for chemo.

We were told that the Rock gives stickers sometimes, and Ruthie got three: a "star", "fantastic" and "good job" She also got a Sponge Bob to remind her to hang in there.

Day 1 after surgery.

2006-10-13T14:01:00.000-04:00

My Rock takes me for a walk.

Day 1 after surgery.

I have balls, my drain tubes.

From Markey Cancer Center - posted and drafted by Rose Ann

2006-10-13T12:43:00.000-04:00

Day 1 - October 10

We met with one of the world' s best gyneclogical oncologists today at his office with part of his team, headed by an red headed irishman, a senior resident fellow. This doctor is very competent, very kind and caring and said he would operate the next day. Two hours later, Ruth had a room at the Cancer Center in Lexington. This is the best place anyone could be if they are sick with ovarian cancer. Ruthie has such good care and they are so responsive. Residents from the team visit often, and the head surgeon comes twice a day, nurses come within a minute of a call, a nurse technician comes every hour and checks on Ruthie. What a great crew she has to take care of her!

Day 2 - October 11

This is surgery day. I thought we were going to do it 6:30 am, but an emergency bumped us from the operating room. At 3 pm we went down and got the epidural and prepped for surgery. The anesthesiologist had the personality of Attila the Hun, and she scared Ruthie. I told me, her big sister before surgery that "she made me cry". {Dr. Great Guy said she was the best and he apologized later for her bad behavior toward Ruthie. He chastised her also. She may have no personality, but the drugs are working fine and Ruthie can get a jolt when she needs it.}

In the next two and half hours, 5 liters (11 pounds) of fluid was taken off her stomach (see, she wasn't really that fat), and all the tumors were taken out except two tiny spots, the size of a baby fingernail, were left because they were too close to the liver blood supply. Ruthie was lucky that she didn't have to have her colon cut or the bladder, liver or spleen. She is so grataeful that she was able to get the very best so very fast and that she got a free appendectomy too.

At 9 o'clock Ruthie was back in her room and ready to talk. She felt so much better already. The epidural was left in so she can have pain killer at will. Hubbie and Big Sister slept in the room with her. We all feel so much better. Hubbie got the lazy boy and Big Sister got the couch. Their snores harmonized and Ruthie watched penguins on the nature channel.

Day 3 - October 12.

Ruthie still feels so much better than when she came in. Her mantra today has been that "I feel great". She sat up in chair for 2 1/2 hours and then took a walk down the hall and back. See my pictures (aren't cell phones great?). The balls are her drain tubes. After a nap, she got to eat ice chips. It may not sound like much to you, but ice was the first thing she had to eat or drink in 36 hours. The clear liquids weren't too enticing, but she did enjoy part of a cherry popsicle.

The cancer center takes emails for patients and brings them to the room like mail. Ruthie loved the emails from friends and family. Lawyer Niece figured it out and got the troops to work on sending those emails. Hubbie was able to go home, take a nap, check the mail and bring Ruthie's house plants in. We were having a frost last night and we didn't want the house plants that were outside to freeze.

Baby brother and other sisters and their families have burned up the phone lines (thank god for so many minutes on our cell phone plans) and Hubbie's family has been equally helpful in calling with words of support and good cheer.

Day 4 - October 13

She had a great breakfast of bullion and a little apple juice. The bandages came off and Hubbie and Big Sister inspected the scar. They avoided the navel with the incision (didn't want her to look like an alien). Ruthie doesn't do scabs so she is taking our word for it. After a morning of talking on the phone, visitng with Hubbie and watching Ellen and reading the paper, she decided to sit in the chair and then walk. No nap was a bad idea.

Ruthie had been dreaming of lemon sherbert with 7up on it. She finally got orange sherbert for lunch, but it didn't seem so appetizing.

The staff told us that day 2 would be not as good as day 1. Darn, they were right. She felt a bit woosy today, but got up and sat in my chair anyway. No walking today and back to ice chips until the stomach settles down.

Day 5 - October 14

Great night! Ruthie slept well and so did poor Hubbie. She had three walks by 10:30. California Sister arrived and she got to see the great progress. The clear liquid diet is going better. She is starting on oral meds and the epidural willl go sometime today.

Hubbie and Big Sister went out for lunch and to visit a friend's horse farm. He needed a break. Big Sister has been staying with a friend in Lexington, but had gone back home to meet California Sister last night.

A nap seems to be in order this afternoon.

Surgery is Over!

2006-10-11T21:08:00.000-04:00

Mom has come through the surgery. (Yes, it's Mary Ann again. I am my mom's new biographer, apparently.) They drained five liters of fluid from her abdomen and removed several internal organs.

It's Stage Three Ovarian Cancer. Which means BAD. But not as awful as it's possible for it to be.

They didn't have to cut through her intenstines, the tumors were on the outside. They didn't have the screw with her bladder or any of that. Hooray for maintaining tiny bits of dignity!

All of the tumors are gone except for two that are tiny and in a tricky spot. In the cost/benefit analysis, they were deemed too dangerous to cut at when chemo should take care of them. And she has two drains left in her.

So, it's not fantastic news, but it's the best news I thought we might get.

From Mary Ann, again

2006-10-10T21:01:00.000-04:00

Mom used to remind us all the time that "We don't play Mine and Yours in this house." Which made me decide we don't play Mine and Yours on this blog. I figured a narrative should be started. Mom's too busy right now to do so. She'll be in the hospital for a few days.

The surgery is tomorrow. There will be two surgeons because one of the tumors on her liver is too close to blood vessels for the gynecological surgeon to feel confident cutting it out.

Mom sounded good, confident, when I talked to her on the phone. I, for one, am happy that action is being taken. She assured me that she has good company at the hospital and isn't wanting for anything that can be mailed to her.

Email me if you want what additional particulars I have.

From Mary Ann

2006-10-04T10:59:00.000-04:00

This is the blog I set up for my mom.