I have had sooo many emails and phone calls from friends asking how Sonny is doing. He seems to be getting better. He didn't make it in to work yesterday....but is planning on going in today. This has really knocked him back...and he feels like he will have to be a more patient, patient and allow his body to recuperate before he tackles the football workouts again. Thank you for your concern.
My sister-in-law, Michele came down for a visit today. She brought a goody bag with lots of fun stuff for me in preparation for this next phase of my treatment. It was great spending some time with her.
I actually made it in to the office meeting today. It was good to see all of the sales on the board...looks like our office is kicking it in the real estate market here in OC! That was great to see. It felt good to be in that environment and discussing business.
I spoke with my advisers at Kaiser today. I have a heart scan scheduled for Thursday, (to make sure my heart is pumping well,,,and can tolerate a particular kind of chemo) and my orientation in the infusion room (chemo room) for next Tuesday. My first chemo is actually on the books for next Thursday. Kind of feels weird to know that it is fast approaching.
Next Monday I go to the plastic surgeon again to have the stitches removed. Then I head to the nutritionist to check on a protocol for supplements during the chemo process.
Looks like next week is going to be pretty busy.
Thanks for keeping tabs on the McCracken clan!
Love,
Nancy
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Enjoyed my outing!
Yesterday was my big outing to Colin's lacrosse game up in LA....it was a beautiful day...sunny with a little breeze. LMU campus is so beautiful! Colin's team won their game handily...score of 8-1. Colin played great! I was so glad to be able to see a game...and meet his coach. It was a great experience for him this year. I managed to get through the drive, game and drive home again with little pain. I was exhausted,,,but happy! Might even try church today!
The bad news from yesterday came when I got home and learned that Sonny had a relapse of the illness he had from last week. Fever,,chills, muscle soreness and almost unbearable sore throat. I ordered him to his closest Urgent care..and he ended up at St. John's Hosp...which is where I was born....many years ago...but still harbor fond feelings for...why I don't know.
He was immediately given an IV...(he even hates the thought of IV's) for dehydration..and then they started poking around. He was attended to by my brother-in-law Larry. (Karrie's husband).who thankfully lives close-by. They ruled out strep and mono...and gave him intravenous penicillin...and sent him packing at 1 am. He went to my sisters house. They did a lot of blood work that should come back today. Of course Sonny is frustrated...he has a full schedule to tackle,,,work and football workouts. He has to follow the doctor's orders and get healthy! This is supposed to be his last week at his internship. He has thoroughly enjoyed the working experience...and the camaraderie of his co-workers. I really want Colin to drive me up there to see him....my sister is saying she will lock me out of the house! She says I can't afford to get sick...so close to my chemo....but he is still my little boy! We'll see. I'll keep you posted.
thanks for checking in with me!
Nancy
The bad news from yesterday came when I got home and learned that Sonny had a relapse of the illness he had from last week. Fever,,chills, muscle soreness and almost unbearable sore throat. I ordered him to his closest Urgent care..and he ended up at St. John's Hosp...which is where I was born....many years ago...but still harbor fond feelings for...why I don't know.
He was immediately given an IV...(he even hates the thought of IV's) for dehydration..and then they started poking around. He was attended to by my brother-in-law Larry. (Karrie's husband).who thankfully lives close-by. They ruled out strep and mono...and gave him intravenous penicillin...and sent him packing at 1 am. He went to my sisters house. They did a lot of blood work that should come back today. Of course Sonny is frustrated...he has a full schedule to tackle,,,work and football workouts. He has to follow the doctor's orders and get healthy! This is supposed to be his last week at his internship. He has thoroughly enjoyed the working experience...and the camaraderie of his co-workers. I really want Colin to drive me up there to see him....my sister is saying she will lock me out of the house! She says I can't afford to get sick...so close to my chemo....but he is still my little boy! We'll see. I'll keep you posted.
thanks for checking in with me!
Nancy
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Phase Two...
Oncology. Cancer. This is the second part of the treatment. Many have asked me ,,,"why do you need chemo if they got the cancer....and the lymph nodes were negative?" Good question.
Cells are small. Microscopic. There were a few trace cells in both of my lymph nodes...and even though this is considered still a neg. node....a few could have gotten out into my system. Now that the breast tissue is gone...the local treatment of breast cancer....we move on to the systemic treatment of the disease. By blasting the body with chemo...and killing any stray cancer cells that have strayed into other parts of the body...I greatly increase my chances of NOT having a return of cancer...in any other parts of my body. It is kind of strange how they do all of these calculations...they take the -bad news -(-in my case the size of my tumor (large) and that I had 2 primary cancers in each breast (very uncommon),,),and all of the other information (which is all good in my case) and plug it into a table. This then predicts the chances of a relapse or return of cancer within the next 5 years...and/or mortality (ugh!). And they present this in a very matter-of-fact way. So basically if I do the chemo and hormone therapy...I reduce the percentages of a return by some 20% or so. It would NOT make sense not to do it. I say "bring it on"!!!!! I am ready to fight these little bad boys!!!
I am looking at 4 cycles of chemo...spaced 3 weeks apart. I SHOULD be finished by the end of October. Yeah! We are planning to go back for the Harvard/Yale game at the end of November...and with this schedule I hope to have some strength back by then.
I really thought that I would have some "healthy" time between surgery and chemo. It has been 3 weeks since the surgery and I am still having considerable pain. I am trying so hard to stop the pain pills,,,they make me tired...and just rely on the Motrin...but not quite there yet. Very frustrating. My sister took me to Henry's Food yesterday on a quest for this drink called Kombucha...an organic raw drink that a scientist created for his mother who was battling breast cancer. We found it! I am nursing one right now as I write. It is probably one of the worst things I have ever had to drink......but I WILL drink one a day...as it is suggested. I look at everything I put in my body right now as fortification to boost my immune system....and hasten my recovery from chemo.
On that note......thank you so much for the food! I know that I will have at least one well-balanced meal per day! And most of the time...leftovers for lunch the next day.
I am going on a "big" outing today. Colin's lacrosse team is playing in the finals of the Starz Cup...and then he is done with lacrosse with his club team for this season. I am being picked up and driven to LMU for the 3 pm game. I really don't think I will be able to stay for the Cup Finals at 5 (which I am sure they will play in). We are taking an umbrella, chair and lots of water. I should be OK.
Well,,,,I better get on to my other task for today....my washer died. I am going to try and let my fingers do the work and look on-line for a new one. It's always something!
Love,
Nancy
Cells are small. Microscopic. There were a few trace cells in both of my lymph nodes...and even though this is considered still a neg. node....a few could have gotten out into my system. Now that the breast tissue is gone...the local treatment of breast cancer....we move on to the systemic treatment of the disease. By blasting the body with chemo...and killing any stray cancer cells that have strayed into other parts of the body...I greatly increase my chances of NOT having a return of cancer...in any other parts of my body. It is kind of strange how they do all of these calculations...they take the -bad news -(-in my case the size of my tumor (large) and that I had 2 primary cancers in each breast (very uncommon),,),and all of the other information (which is all good in my case) and plug it into a table. This then predicts the chances of a relapse or return of cancer within the next 5 years...and/or mortality (ugh!). And they present this in a very matter-of-fact way. So basically if I do the chemo and hormone therapy...I reduce the percentages of a return by some 20% or so. It would NOT make sense not to do it. I say "bring it on"!!!!! I am ready to fight these little bad boys!!!
I am looking at 4 cycles of chemo...spaced 3 weeks apart. I SHOULD be finished by the end of October. Yeah! We are planning to go back for the Harvard/Yale game at the end of November...and with this schedule I hope to have some strength back by then.
I really thought that I would have some "healthy" time between surgery and chemo. It has been 3 weeks since the surgery and I am still having considerable pain. I am trying so hard to stop the pain pills,,,they make me tired...and just rely on the Motrin...but not quite there yet. Very frustrating. My sister took me to Henry's Food yesterday on a quest for this drink called Kombucha...an organic raw drink that a scientist created for his mother who was battling breast cancer. We found it! I am nursing one right now as I write. It is probably one of the worst things I have ever had to drink......but I WILL drink one a day...as it is suggested. I look at everything I put in my body right now as fortification to boost my immune system....and hasten my recovery from chemo.
On that note......thank you so much for the food! I know that I will have at least one well-balanced meal per day! And most of the time...leftovers for lunch the next day.
I am going on a "big" outing today. Colin's lacrosse team is playing in the finals of the Starz Cup...and then he is done with lacrosse with his club team for this season. I am being picked up and driven to LMU for the 3 pm game. I really don't think I will be able to stay for the Cup Finals at 5 (which I am sure they will play in). We are taking an umbrella, chair and lots of water. I should be OK.
Well,,,,I better get on to my other task for today....my washer died. I am going to try and let my fingers do the work and look on-line for a new one. It's always something!
Love,
Nancy
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Don't move...easier said than done...
Well, I had my visit with my plastic surgeon on Friday. I knew going in that I was swollen,,retaining fluid in my entire chest area...and was dreading the appointment. He asked me what I had been doing with my arms to create this kind of swelling...I said just the usual..and also the exercises that were sent home with me...he said those were not exercises for mastectomies..( what did I know...I am good at following directions! ).and that is what caused the swelling..and maybe my feeble attempt at vacuuming on thursday. So to reduce the swelling he injected 50 cc's of saline into my expanders , and then wrapped me really tightly with the ace bandage with strict instructions not to move my arms for 2 more weeks!!!! He is hoping that the combination of pressure from behind and on top of the swelling would make it be reabsorbed more quickly.
Then Karrie and I went to a wig store. We had a ball! It is this wig shop in Mission Viejo that has been there for 32 years. We tried on some wigs...and I felt much better about that phase of my treatment. Also, a friend from work dropped off a beautiful wig for me to try as well.
Mairin got home from her cruise and showed me some great photos...and regaled me with stories of her adventures. Colin is at the Temecula lacrosse tournament..and right at this moment playing in the semi-final game! Sonny came home yesterday to check in with me...and unfortunately woke up feeling sick this morning..so he is off to the doctor. I felt bad I couldn't go with him...but then he reminded me..Mom...I go to the doctor by myself at college all the time...oh yeah. Once your kid...always your kid. I sometimes forget that he is a young man!
The meals this week were fantastic! Thank you from all of us...Sheri, MaryVictoria and Renee! We stretched them into lunches too.
I am really testing my patience here...I am not a lay-around type of person. However, he did just say not to move my arms. Last evening I went for a walk. It felt nice. I plan to do that more often......and hand the vacuuming over to someone else!
Love,
Nancy
Then Karrie and I went to a wig store. We had a ball! It is this wig shop in Mission Viejo that has been there for 32 years. We tried on some wigs...and I felt much better about that phase of my treatment. Also, a friend from work dropped off a beautiful wig for me to try as well.
Mairin got home from her cruise and showed me some great photos...and regaled me with stories of her adventures. Colin is at the Temecula lacrosse tournament..and right at this moment playing in the semi-final game! Sonny came home yesterday to check in with me...and unfortunately woke up feeling sick this morning..so he is off to the doctor. I felt bad I couldn't go with him...but then he reminded me..Mom...I go to the doctor by myself at college all the time...oh yeah. Once your kid...always your kid. I sometimes forget that he is a young man!
The meals this week were fantastic! Thank you from all of us...Sheri, MaryVictoria and Renee! We stretched them into lunches too.
I am really testing my patience here...I am not a lay-around type of person. However, he did just say not to move my arms. Last evening I went for a walk. It felt nice. I plan to do that more often......and hand the vacuuming over to someone else!
Love,
Nancy
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Quiet on the homefront!
Today was a relatively quiet day around here. I am used to organized chaos around me. Where did everyone go? Mairin left yesterday for the cruise, with her Dance Studio....one that I had been looking forward to for a year....she is in good hands...and like a dutiful daughter, even called me this morning to check in. My sister left last night to head up to her house and catch up on some things of her own that had been piling up. But not before she did more laundry,,,hung photos, went to the store etc.....
So last night was my first night with just Colin here. Karrie bought me one of those little bells that you ring at the front lobby of cheap hotels...and put it next to my bed. This morning when I needed my meds...I rang and rang AND RANG.....then got smart and called Colin on his phone....no answer. I staggered into his room....where I quickly realized that of course he couldn't hear me with the door closed and his fan on full blast. He saw me and leaped (lept?) out of bed with concern on his face. That made me feel good. He handled his assignment as the Nurse , with great care.
On the medical front, I had my phone conversation with my 2nd opinion doctor regarding my pathology report. She is an oncologist. She was surprised to read about the cancer in the left breast...but was so relieved that I had followed my gut instincts and had it removed. Her opinion regarding the next phase of my treatment was what I expected. She would recommend an aggressive chemo regime. This is because of the size of my cancer,,and the few floating cells found in my lymph gland...and because I am young and healthy (relatively speaking of course!) and can handle it. Probably will be about 16 weeks total...she would guess. A round of chemo every 2-3 weeks....
I will get my oncologists plan for me when I go next Thursday. I would expect to begin treatment the following week...unless there is some problem with my surgery....which seems to be healing well.
Yes,,,,the hair will come out. Oh well. I am planning to get it cut short this Friday,,and maybe even go a little wild with the color...treat this like an adventure. I've been looking at wigs on-line...but will probably go to a wig store next week as well. I will need to get something to wear when I meet with clients. And I need to get back to work! My very competent partner has been doing a fantastic job for me. But I feel like I need to at least go in the office and stay in the loop. I want to stay involved in the things I love and not let this cancer rule my life.
Now if you see some scarf out there that you just know I would like....by all means get it to me...drop it by..mail it...send by boat...plane....I love getting presents!
For those of you that have dropped off food,,,it has been scarfed down (funny!) Thank you so much.
Once I get this new do...I'll post another photo.
Love
Nancy
PS...that comment on my last post that looked like it was from me,,was actually Mairin.
So last night was my first night with just Colin here. Karrie bought me one of those little bells that you ring at the front lobby of cheap hotels...and put it next to my bed. This morning when I needed my meds...I rang and rang AND RANG.....then got smart and called Colin on his phone....no answer. I staggered into his room....where I quickly realized that of course he couldn't hear me with the door closed and his fan on full blast. He saw me and leaped (lept?) out of bed with concern on his face. That made me feel good. He handled his assignment as the Nurse , with great care.
On the medical front, I had my phone conversation with my 2nd opinion doctor regarding my pathology report. She is an oncologist. She was surprised to read about the cancer in the left breast...but was so relieved that I had followed my gut instincts and had it removed. Her opinion regarding the next phase of my treatment was what I expected. She would recommend an aggressive chemo regime. This is because of the size of my cancer,,and the few floating cells found in my lymph gland...and because I am young and healthy (relatively speaking of course!) and can handle it. Probably will be about 16 weeks total...she would guess. A round of chemo every 2-3 weeks....
I will get my oncologists plan for me when I go next Thursday. I would expect to begin treatment the following week...unless there is some problem with my surgery....which seems to be healing well.
Yes,,,,the hair will come out. Oh well. I am planning to get it cut short this Friday,,and maybe even go a little wild with the color...treat this like an adventure. I've been looking at wigs on-line...but will probably go to a wig store next week as well. I will need to get something to wear when I meet with clients. And I need to get back to work! My very competent partner has been doing a fantastic job for me. But I feel like I need to at least go in the office and stay in the loop. I want to stay involved in the things I love and not let this cancer rule my life.
Now if you see some scarf out there that you just know I would like....by all means get it to me...drop it by..mail it...send by boat...plane....I love getting presents!
For those of you that have dropped off food,,,it has been scarfed down (funny!) Thank you so much.
Once I get this new do...I'll post another photo.
Love
Nancy
PS...that comment on my last post that looked like it was from me,,was actually Mairin.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
where am I? whose house is this?
Well,,,it is Sunday...and my house has been having a makeover for a week now. It is amazing how much just organizing can make a difference! I can't find anything now...because it has a place of it's own....I just need some kind of index to find the "places of it's own". Like...where is the beta fish food for Jackie Chan? He looks at me through his bowl and open and closes his mouth....gotta be here somewhere..
Cherie left this morning...Fitz stayed overnight and enjoyed dinner with the Mellos and us...then took Cherie to the airport. I must admit,,,I cried like a baby. "But I'm not ready for you to go yet!!!" I cried. Cherie reminded me that my sister Karrie was coming back down...and that she HAD to go ther her Mom's big bday party. I wailed.
Then she said Schrein....it's the drugs. Chill. OK. OK. I made Colin and Mairin come in and give me TLC . And then they gave me more drugs.
My cousin Sue called...she is on her way down too. I really am so blessed to have caring family and friends to help me out.
Now if we can only find Mairin's birth certificate so she can get on the cruise tomorrow...life would be great!
Off for a little nap.
Nancy
Cherie left this morning...Fitz stayed overnight and enjoyed dinner with the Mellos and us...then took Cherie to the airport. I must admit,,,I cried like a baby. "But I'm not ready for you to go yet!!!" I cried. Cherie reminded me that my sister Karrie was coming back down...and that she HAD to go ther her Mom's big bday party. I wailed.
Then she said Schrein....it's the drugs. Chill. OK. OK. I made Colin and Mairin come in and give me TLC . And then they gave me more drugs.
My cousin Sue called...she is on her way down too. I really am so blessed to have caring family and friends to help me out.
Now if we can only find Mairin's birth certificate so she can get on the cruise tomorrow...life would be great!
Off for a little nap.
Nancy
Friday, July 13, 2007
long day today....
Well today I went to the Dr. to get the remaining drains removed. SO glad to be rid of them. It will def. make me more comfortable. She said everything looks good so far.
She described my pathology report as "interesting"...which gave me chills running up my spine. It was kind of a "good news,,bad news" report.
The bad news,,,there was more cancer in my right breast than originally found...and they also found cancer in my LEFT breast! This was a total suprise because throughout all of the tests...it never showed up! However, this kind of cancer is very tough to find in traditional methods....which is why I decided to have both removed.
The good news is that both are now gone....and I only had traces in my lymph glands....so I am relieved that I made the best decision for me......otherwise I would have been facing more surgery in the future.
The next phase is chemotherapy which should begin within the next few weeks.
My college roommate, Cherie flew down here yesterday,,,,and did the official changing of the guards with my sister Karrie. She too is determined to have my house germ free (mostly clutter-free) before I begin chemo. She has spent hours organizing...and taking over from where Karrie left off. I can never begin to thank them for all of their help.
I have had so many offers of food coming that I told my kids to get out a calendar! Since I have teenagers,,,they are so appreciative of the meals. Thank you!
I am thoroughly worn out ......off to a cool shower and then bed.
One week down!
Love,
Nancy
She described my pathology report as "interesting"...which gave me chills running up my spine. It was kind of a "good news,,bad news" report.
The bad news,,,there was more cancer in my right breast than originally found...and they also found cancer in my LEFT breast! This was a total suprise because throughout all of the tests...it never showed up! However, this kind of cancer is very tough to find in traditional methods....which is why I decided to have both removed.
The good news is that both are now gone....and I only had traces in my lymph glands....so I am relieved that I made the best decision for me......otherwise I would have been facing more surgery in the future.
The next phase is chemotherapy which should begin within the next few weeks.
My college roommate, Cherie flew down here yesterday,,,,and did the official changing of the guards with my sister Karrie. She too is determined to have my house germ free (mostly clutter-free) before I begin chemo. She has spent hours organizing...and taking over from where Karrie left off. I can never begin to thank them for all of their help.
I have had so many offers of food coming that I told my kids to get out a calendar! Since I have teenagers,,,they are so appreciative of the meals. Thank you!
I am thoroughly worn out ......off to a cool shower and then bed.
One week down!
Love,
Nancy
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
I'm back....just don't make me laugh....yet.
Well,,,I got home last night from the hospital.....finally!!!! We learned that I was getting fever at night from an allergic reaction to the sleeping pills!!! Come on!
My fever went to 99.9 on Mon. night....45 min. after getting my sleeping pill.....I had an ah-hah moment and told the nurse of my discovery...she immediately gave me an injection to counter the effects (had my fever gone over 100....again....I would not have been released),,,then she gave me a shot to help me sleep....and I slept...and awoke with no fever! In the meantime I was being tested for pneumonia, bladder infections...etc..etc.....the good news is I'm out!
I slept well in my own surroundings.
Thank yous.
My sister Karrie is amazing. What she has done for me does not fall within the realm of sisterly duty. She has virtually put her life on hold...and been there for me 24/7. For those of you who know her....you know that she leads an extremely busy life. Her oldest son, Nick is doing an internship at Cedars, Patrick, 15, left yesterday for Thailand to save elephants and study some type of martial art,,for 3 weeks...Beau just got home from a visit to the east coast and is now doing a soccer camp at Pepperdine,,,and Marlowe, 10, is dancing with the Debbie Allen dance company from 9-4 daily. The coordination of just her kids schedule alone has taken monumental coordination from Larry, and her many friends. This cancer of mine has far reaching trickle down effects! I can only humbly say thank you from the bottom of my heart,,,and for being there for my kids too.
Sonny, Colin and Mairin are also busy in their individual lives,,,,but have been so helpful and their positive energy is just what the doctor ordered!
My Dad has been consistently there. He offers steadfast love and support.
My family and friends have been so supportive in so many ways. It has all helped me so much.
During the visualization tapes one of the activities was to bring up all of the people in my life that have had a positive impact on me, ever. Then imagine them all in a circle, acting as a shield against any negative energy. This circle watched over me during surgery and during recovery.
These faces were from childhood, college, Texas, North Carolina, family and friends that were reconnected,,,and also some faces that are no longer here in the present.
They were your faces. I am so blessed. And so are my kids. It is such a comfort to them to know that there is a support group in place that is also looking out for them as well.
Now,,,,as far as not making me laugh.....when my brother Joe visited from San Diego...he started telling me a story....that I could tell was a gut-ripper...as in funny. I had to hold up my hand and put on my "serious-face"...and then threaten to get him thrown out....if he tried to make me laugh. All of you my friends make me laugh. We all have some great stories to share that bring us rounds of laughter. My chest is not there ....yet. So file away those stories....and I am so looking forward to the day when I can laugh with you! I hope it is not in the too far future!
I love you!
Nancy.....on her way to new and improved!
My fever went to 99.9 on Mon. night....45 min. after getting my sleeping pill.....I had an ah-hah moment and told the nurse of my discovery...she immediately gave me an injection to counter the effects (had my fever gone over 100....again....I would not have been released),,,then she gave me a shot to help me sleep....and I slept...and awoke with no fever! In the meantime I was being tested for pneumonia, bladder infections...etc..etc.....the good news is I'm out!
I slept well in my own surroundings.
Thank yous.
My sister Karrie is amazing. What she has done for me does not fall within the realm of sisterly duty. She has virtually put her life on hold...and been there for me 24/7. For those of you who know her....you know that she leads an extremely busy life. Her oldest son, Nick is doing an internship at Cedars, Patrick, 15, left yesterday for Thailand to save elephants and study some type of martial art,,for 3 weeks...Beau just got home from a visit to the east coast and is now doing a soccer camp at Pepperdine,,,and Marlowe, 10, is dancing with the Debbie Allen dance company from 9-4 daily. The coordination of just her kids schedule alone has taken monumental coordination from Larry, and her many friends. This cancer of mine has far reaching trickle down effects! I can only humbly say thank you from the bottom of my heart,,,and for being there for my kids too.
Sonny, Colin and Mairin are also busy in their individual lives,,,,but have been so helpful and their positive energy is just what the doctor ordered!
My Dad has been consistently there. He offers steadfast love and support.
My family and friends have been so supportive in so many ways. It has all helped me so much.
During the visualization tapes one of the activities was to bring up all of the people in my life that have had a positive impact on me, ever. Then imagine them all in a circle, acting as a shield against any negative energy. This circle watched over me during surgery and during recovery.
These faces were from childhood, college, Texas, North Carolina, family and friends that were reconnected,,,and also some faces that are no longer here in the present.
They were your faces. I am so blessed. And so are my kids. It is such a comfort to them to know that there is a support group in place that is also looking out for them as well.
Now,,,,as far as not making me laugh.....when my brother Joe visited from San Diego...he started telling me a story....that I could tell was a gut-ripper...as in funny. I had to hold up my hand and put on my "serious-face"...and then threaten to get him thrown out....if he tried to make me laugh. All of you my friends make me laugh. We all have some great stories to share that bring us rounds of laughter. My chest is not there ....yet. So file away those stories....and I am so looking forward to the day when I can laugh with you! I hope it is not in the too far future!
I love you!
Nancy.....on her way to new and improved!
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Baby Steps
Hey everyone,
My mom has been pestering me to keep up with the blog, and unfortunately the hospital doesn't have wireless so my updates haven't been quite as consistent as we would like...
Mom is doing well though. Although she was not able to leave the hospital today as originally planned (pre-op) due to a recurring fever, she is feeling increasingly better with each passing moment. She got up today a couple times to take some leisurely strolls around the hospital and give her a minute to clear her lungs (as the doctors are worried she might get pneumonia again if she stays horizontal). The first couple times she stood up took a lot out of her and left her in pain and completely exhausted. However, I'm sure all of you know my Mom and how persistent she is, she continued to get up and push her limits and the pain began to fade away ever so slightly. This left us all extremely encouraged and looking forward to the brighter days forthcoming. Karrie and Momma's little assistant (Mairin) have been extremely helpful and seem to never leave her side. Grampa Urb (Nancy's Dad) is also there at all times to provide a little quick wit and company.
As far as visiting goes, Mom isn't quite in the condition to have visitors just yet. Because she is likely staying for a few more days, it might be possible to visit in the coming days. Just give me a call at 949 254 1754 and check with me before you make any plans just so I can run it by her and make sure she isn't sleeping or something.
Until Next Time,
Sonny and co.
PS- One additional perk to having an extended stay in the hospital is that it gives me a chance to break my own record. All the toilets are fitted with built in measuring cups to monitor patients' urine "output." So of course, I have to test myself, and because I am a competitive person, re-test myself. I have pushed my limits to 22-oz's in one sitting, err standing and therefore challenge anyone who visits to de-throne me (pun intended. gosh I'm funny...)
My mom has been pestering me to keep up with the blog, and unfortunately the hospital doesn't have wireless so my updates haven't been quite as consistent as we would like...
Mom is doing well though. Although she was not able to leave the hospital today as originally planned (pre-op) due to a recurring fever, she is feeling increasingly better with each passing moment. She got up today a couple times to take some leisurely strolls around the hospital and give her a minute to clear her lungs (as the doctors are worried she might get pneumonia again if she stays horizontal). The first couple times she stood up took a lot out of her and left her in pain and completely exhausted. However, I'm sure all of you know my Mom and how persistent she is, she continued to get up and push her limits and the pain began to fade away ever so slightly. This left us all extremely encouraged and looking forward to the brighter days forthcoming. Karrie and Momma's little assistant (Mairin) have been extremely helpful and seem to never leave her side. Grampa Urb (Nancy's Dad) is also there at all times to provide a little quick wit and company.
As far as visiting goes, Mom isn't quite in the condition to have visitors just yet. Because she is likely staying for a few more days, it might be possible to visit in the coming days. Just give me a call at 949 254 1754 and check with me before you make any plans just so I can run it by her and make sure she isn't sleeping or something.
Until Next Time,
Sonny and co.
PS- One additional perk to having an extended stay in the hospital is that it gives me a chance to break my own record. All the toilets are fitted with built in measuring cups to monitor patients' urine "output." So of course, I have to test myself, and because I am a competitive person, re-test myself. I have pushed my limits to 22-oz's in one sitting, err standing and therefore challenge anyone who visits to de-throne me (pun intended. gosh I'm funny...)
Friday, July 6, 2007
Hey Everyone,
I am veggin' out right now at the hospital with my bro, sis, dad, Aunt Karrie (who kicks my big ass in backgammon, by the way), and Grampa Urb and we just wanted to send out a little update to all you out in cyberspace who are probably anxiously clicking the "refresh" button on your browsers, waiting for an update on Mom's condition!
We just got some good news from the doctor who performed the masectomy-part of the operation. Hold up, plastic surgeon just walked in with some more news....
Ok, well back to the the first part...
The doctor said that she is about 85% sure that she does NOT have cancer in her lymph glands, which, obviously enough, is awesome news. Although there is still the slim possibility the initial diagnosis is wrong, it would probably only be a maximum of a few cancerous cells remaining, so in all likelihood, the cancer has been removed from the body and is probably sitting in a biohazard bag at the bottom of a trashcan right now! Too graphic? Haha sorry...
The plastic surgeon and first surgeon both said her body responded awesome in surgery and she can expect a relatively swift recovery. Although she still has some tough times ahead, I can definitely speak for her and say that she is incredibly happy to have the cancer out of her system and is ready to get a little R&R for the first time in weeks. I will keep you all updated with any more news and I'm sure she will have something to say when she wakes up.
until then,
Sonny and co.
PS- I just wanted to thank each and every one of you who have logged on to this blog and left a little note, written an e-mail, or picked up the phone. It means so much to me to log on and see all the wonderful things people have to say about MY MOM! More importantly, she has been incredibly positive throughout this process and I know much of the cause lies right here on this page. From listening to that Positive Thoughts CD to simply being able to read over and over how much each one of you cares, you all have made this process THAT MUCH EASIER. As I said to Aunt Karrie one day, "Great people have great friends," and these last few weeks have really conveyed that message to us all.
I am veggin' out right now at the hospital with my bro, sis, dad, Aunt Karrie (who kicks my big ass in backgammon, by the way), and Grampa Urb and we just wanted to send out a little update to all you out in cyberspace who are probably anxiously clicking the "refresh" button on your browsers, waiting for an update on Mom's condition!
We just got some good news from the doctor who performed the masectomy-part of the operation. Hold up, plastic surgeon just walked in with some more news....
Ok, well back to the the first part...
The doctor said that she is about 85% sure that she does NOT have cancer in her lymph glands, which, obviously enough, is awesome news. Although there is still the slim possibility the initial diagnosis is wrong, it would probably only be a maximum of a few cancerous cells remaining, so in all likelihood, the cancer has been removed from the body and is probably sitting in a biohazard bag at the bottom of a trashcan right now! Too graphic? Haha sorry...
The plastic surgeon and first surgeon both said her body responded awesome in surgery and she can expect a relatively swift recovery. Although she still has some tough times ahead, I can definitely speak for her and say that she is incredibly happy to have the cancer out of her system and is ready to get a little R&R for the first time in weeks. I will keep you all updated with any more news and I'm sure she will have something to say when she wakes up.
until then,
Sonny and co.
PS- I just wanted to thank each and every one of you who have logged on to this blog and left a little note, written an e-mail, or picked up the phone. It means so much to me to log on and see all the wonderful things people have to say about MY MOM! More importantly, she has been incredibly positive throughout this process and I know much of the cause lies right here on this page. From listening to that Positive Thoughts CD to simply being able to read over and over how much each one of you cares, you all have made this process THAT MUCH EASIER. As I said to Aunt Karrie one day, "Great people have great friends," and these last few weeks have really conveyed that message to us all.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
thanks for your kind thoughts and prayers
I had a great day getting organized for tomorrow. I met with an associate at work to transition with my clients...and feel so confident that they are in good hands. I really appreciate the support that my co-workers have shown me. It also felt great to talk real estate and forget about my situation. After-all,,there is more to me than this little setback!
I had a wonderful gift of a massage today! Thank you,,thank you! She came to my house,,,and as I listened to my visualization cd's...I started to relax....although the puppy Bentley was bound and determined to find some possible way to get on the massage table. He finally after many attempts,,,was able to jump, and land on the arm-rest under the face-rest,,,,and straddle it. He looked so funny...but at last was content!
I will be turning my blog over to Sonny. As you all know..he started this for me...so he will be keeping you posted on my recovery.
Good night,
Nancy
I had a wonderful gift of a massage today! Thank you,,thank you! She came to my house,,,and as I listened to my visualization cd's...I started to relax....although the puppy Bentley was bound and determined to find some possible way to get on the massage table. He finally after many attempts,,,was able to jump, and land on the arm-rest under the face-rest,,,,and straddle it. He looked so funny...but at last was content!
I will be turning my blog over to Sonny. As you all know..he started this for me...so he will be keeping you posted on my recovery.
Good night,
Nancy
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Irvine Regional Hospital
Some of you have asked where I will be for surgery:
Irvine Regional Hospital
16200 Sand Canyon Ave.
Irvine, CA
I should be there 6th-8th...send prayers....and well-wishes...
Love,
Nancy
Irvine Regional Hospital
16200 Sand Canyon Ave.
Irvine, CA
I should be there 6th-8th...send prayers....and well-wishes...
Love,
Nancy
Clear Pet Scan
Today I got a call from my doctor telling me that my PET scan that I had last Wed. came back clear. I am so relieved and happy.
After surgery on Friday I will know if any lymph glands are involved. That information will determine the kind and length of the chemotherapy.
I have been listening to the visualization and affirmation cd's that Alyson sent me. It was very calming....but also intense. It will be a big help to me.
However,,,,,I went out and charged an ipod nano for myself....because I deserve it...everyone else in my family has at least one....and because I wanted to put these cd's on it. So being a virgin ipod person...I carefully read the instructions and voila! My relaxation cd's appeared!
Listening to it that night before I went to sleep was perfect.....but THEN some obnoxious LOUD hip-hoppy thing came blasting through my calmness and screamed at me!
Apparently, there were other "tunes" on the itunes.site on my computer..that were automatically transferred to my ipod!
Needless to say last night Colin spent some time removing them and returning my ipod to peace and calm.
We are off to Barnetts today to spend tomorrow with them at the beach. I think we will return home in the late afternoon,,prior to the craziness of traffic from fireworks..and sleep in my own bed. I have a lot to do on Thursday to prepare for Friday.
Thanks for all of your support.
Nancy
After surgery on Friday I will know if any lymph glands are involved. That information will determine the kind and length of the chemotherapy.
I have been listening to the visualization and affirmation cd's that Alyson sent me. It was very calming....but also intense. It will be a big help to me.
However,,,,,I went out and charged an ipod nano for myself....because I deserve it...everyone else in my family has at least one....and because I wanted to put these cd's on it. So being a virgin ipod person...I carefully read the instructions and voila! My relaxation cd's appeared!
Listening to it that night before I went to sleep was perfect.....but THEN some obnoxious LOUD hip-hoppy thing came blasting through my calmness and screamed at me!
Apparently, there were other "tunes" on the itunes.site on my computer..that were automatically transferred to my ipod!
Needless to say last night Colin spent some time removing them and returning my ipod to peace and calm.
We are off to Barnetts today to spend tomorrow with them at the beach. I think we will return home in the late afternoon,,prior to the craziness of traffic from fireworks..and sleep in my own bed. I have a lot to do on Thursday to prepare for Friday.
Thanks for all of your support.
Nancy
Monday, July 2, 2007
Recital weekend and lacrosse too! Whew!
This was an adventure packed weekend. I enjoy watching my kids live their dreams. They bring smiles to my face. During my "visualizattion techniques" I use their laughs and voices to get me to my place of relaxation. The tapes that Alyson sent me arrived and I transferred them to my ipod and started listening last night. i really think it will help.
Great weekend
This was one of the waves that Sonny and his friends rode during the day on Sat. Family and friends brought bagels and coolers...and Keogh brought the boards and his expertise. From experienced to first time surfers...Keogh got them all up and riding. It was a gorgeous day.
We also had a birthday celebration for Sonny's 20th on Friday night . Since his birthday wasn't until Sun....that was one long birthday celebration!
It was so fun for all!
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