It's 4am, so you can guess how tonight is going! Dale's been sleeping in 10 minute increments. His sleep is interrupted by either a dry mouth or the urge to cough. The dry mouth is treatable with ice chips, but the urge to cough just leads to an uncomfortable attempt at squelching the cough. Dale is using his PCA (Patient controlled anesthesia) often. I believe he attempted 14 hits in the last hour! He's squeezing "Sir Coughalot" tightly and trying his best to handle the pain that the coughing brings on. (Sir Coughalot is a rigid backed stuffed teddy bear designed to support Dale's incision area during coughing)
Dale just got a "Bolus" (extra dose) of pain meds to try and offer him some more relief during those coughing spells. Those extra doses are allowed every 3 hours and a blessing!
Dale's vitals remain good. His body seems to be doing well at healing. Time, I'm sure will be the best treatment. He is strong and his body has been through so much over the past few months, I know that easier days are ahead!
As a side note, MD Anderson does an excellent job at treating and curing patients. They do fall very short, when it comes to producing a decent cup of coffee!
Til later,
The "tired" Queen!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
Later on - Day 1
Dale has been up walking 3 times today around the nurses station. He has been up sitting several times and is now on a regular diet.
There has been some assessing of his ability to swallow correctly. The nerve that was "manhandled" during surgery that serves the vocal cord is a small concern. The speech pathologist has seen dad, as have several other doctors. They've all decided that there doesn't appear to be any residual problems from the "manhandling".
Dale is obviously exhausted today. He has some pain during his laps around the nurses station. He incision looks great (about 7-8"). He still has a zillion wires and cords!
Flowers and well wishes are all around the room.
Dale's nephew, Wilbur and his wife visited this afternoon!
I'll stay tonight and am hoping for a quiet and restful evening...(Fat Chance - this is a Hospital!)
There has been some assessing of his ability to swallow correctly. The nerve that was "manhandled" during surgery that serves the vocal cord is a small concern. The speech pathologist has seen dad, as have several other doctors. They've all decided that there doesn't appear to be any residual problems from the "manhandling".
Dale is obviously exhausted today. He has some pain during his laps around the nurses station. He incision looks great (about 7-8"). He still has a zillion wires and cords!
Flowers and well wishes are all around the room.
Dale's nephew, Wilbur and his wife visited this afternoon!
I'll stay tonight and am hoping for a quiet and restful evening...(Fat Chance - this is a Hospital!)
Day 1 in Hospital
We've (Dale and I) had a long night. Nausea and incessant itching are the biggest complaint. Dale got a couple of uninterrupted hours of sleep. Lots of alarms and many visits by hospital staff keep the door open more during the night than closed.
He's up sitting (or should I say sleeping) in a rocking chair right now.
He's a mass of tubes and wires and moving about the room is almost impossible.
The pain medicine team has been by this morning and they are going to get Dale on a 24 hours nausea medication plan. This will hopefully get the nausea under control so he can be allowed to eat/drink.
He's not quite in as good humor as yesterday evening, but luckily pain isn't an issue still!
Thanks for your emailed wishes, Dale rec'd several already! We're taping them up on the wall!
Until later....
He's up sitting (or should I say sleeping) in a rocking chair right now.
He's a mass of tubes and wires and moving about the room is almost impossible.
The pain medicine team has been by this morning and they are going to get Dale on a 24 hours nausea medication plan. This will hopefully get the nausea under control so he can be allowed to eat/drink.
He's not quite in as good humor as yesterday evening, but luckily pain isn't an issue still!
Thanks for your emailed wishes, Dale rec'd several already! We're taping them up on the wall!
Until later....
Thursday, December 27, 2007
He's finally in his room!
Dale is in his hospital room now. Lots of tubes and monitors, but he's in no pain and talking a lot. Giving the nurses a hard time and so very glad to be cancer-free.
He's rec'd several emails via MD Anderson's patient email service. He'll be on ice chips till tomorrow morning. Breathing exercises have been started.
Sort of like Christmas morning here!
He's rec'd several emails via MD Anderson's patient email service. He'll be on ice chips till tomorrow morning. Breathing exercises have been started.
Sort of like Christmas morning here!
Room 720
Dale looks great! Just left the recovery room and he's alert and talking. He's got an oxygen mask on and an IV. All his vitals look good and he claims he's in no pain (Epidural continues)! We're all elated and ready to celebrate the new year - with a clean slate!
Thanks for all you prayers!
MD Anderson has a webpage that allows guests to send a message to patients. I'm including a link here:
https://www2.mdanderson.org/sapp/contact/message.cfm
If you would like to send Dad a message during his hospital stay, please use his "big boy" name (Richard Stover), his MD Anderson patient number #733466 and his birth date of 09/01/1929.
Thanks for all you prayers!
MD Anderson has a webpage that allows guests to send a message to patients. I'm including a link here:
https://www2.mdanderson.org/sapp/contact/message.cfm
If you would like to send Dad a message during his hospital stay, please use his "big boy" name (Richard Stover), his MD Anderson patient number #733466 and his birth date of 09/01/1929.
Surgery COMPLETE!
Dr. Rice met with us a few minutes ago. He explained the small complication of the adhered lung. The pathology report showed no cancer in the margins. GREAT NEWS THERE!
The removal of the lobe was made difficult by the location of a nerve which serves the vocal cords. This may cause Dale to be hoarse for a while.
Dale's vitals are good and he'll be in recovery for a couple of hours and then moved to a regular room.
Dr. Rice will make rounds this evening and we'll know more after we see Dale.
I'll update after we see Dale!
Prayers continue!
The removal of the lobe was made difficult by the location of a nerve which serves the vocal cords. This may cause Dale to be hoarse for a while.
Dale's vitals are good and he'll be in recovery for a couple of hours and then moved to a regular room.
Dr. Rice will make rounds this evening and we'll know more after we see Dale.
I'll update after we see Dale!
Prayers continue!
Noon Update
Dale's surgery is progessing slowly. The left lung is adhered to the chest wall and it's a slow tedious process to remove that adhesion.
Dale's vitals are good.
Next update at 1:30.
No estimate on when the surgery will be complete.
Prayers continue!
Dale's vitals are good.
Next update at 1:30.
No estimate on when the surgery will be complete.
Prayers continue!
10AM Update
Dale has passed the medianstinoscopy test and Dr. Rice has begun the lobectomy.
The lung is adhered to the chest wall and Dr. Rice is unable to remove the lobe using the VATS technic. This will cause a larger incision and increase the recovery time and hospital stay.
We will have another update at noon and I'll update again.
Dr. Rice wanted the OR nurse to assure us that this was not bad news. Just a happening that changes his surgery plan.
Prayers continue!
The lung is adhered to the chest wall and Dr. Rice is unable to remove the lobe using the VATS technic. This will cause a larger incision and increase the recovery time and hospital stay.
We will have another update at noon and I'll update again.
Dr. Rice wanted the OR nurse to assure us that this was not bad news. Just a happening that changes his surgery plan.
Prayers continue!
Surgery Underway!
Dale went back to the operating room at 7am. Surgery will begin at apr. 8am. Our first update will be at 10am.
Dale's first procedure is mediastinoscopy. After the pathology report, the decision will be made to continue.
I'll update after the next report!
Prayers continue!
Dale's first procedure is mediastinoscopy. After the pathology report, the decision will be made to continue.
I'll update after the next report!
Prayers continue!
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Tomorrow is Cure Day!
Spirits are high and family members are either here or in route. Dale will report at 5:15am and I'll update as I can during the day.
Continued prayers are always appreciated!
Continued prayers are always appreciated!
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Survivor Story
I received a wonderful phone call today from a dear, sweet lady named Elizabeth Montgomery. Elizabeth is a volunteer at MD Anderson. She's a cancer survivor. She had stage 1 lung cancer seven years ago. She had the radical surgery with her lower right lobe removed. She required no after care and now returns to MD Anderson for yearly checkups! She discussed the recovery from the surgery and her wonderful experience at MD Anderson. I'm was so excited to hear her story. I called Jackie and told her this news and gave her Elizabeth's phone number so they could talk more. What a great service MD Anderson offers - when it connects new cancer patients to survivors!
I'm not sure anybody out there could have given me a better Christmas gift than the story of hope that Elizabeth gave me today!
Countdown to Cure! 8 days
I'm not sure anybody out there could have given me a better Christmas gift than the story of hope that Elizabeth gave me today!
Countdown to Cure! 8 days
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
All Systems Go!
Dale received a call from Dr. Rice's Physician Assistant. All test done last week were perfect. There wasn't anything lurking in the fluid extracted and Dale passed both the pulmonary and cardiac stress tests.
Friday, Jackie will call for the surgery time on the 27th! Then it's time for ......
A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Friday, Jackie will call for the surgery time on the 27th! Then it's time for ......
A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Update from MD Anderson
Dale had blood work done this morning at 8am. He's moving very slow today and extremely exhausted from yesterday's testing.
After an hour's wait, we met with an Anesthesiologist, Tayab Andrabi. He was very thorough in documenting past surgeries, medications, previous procedures and other anesthesia related events. His review of Dale's condition was good and he expects a great outcome. He discussed complications and also the procedures.
He reviewed yesterday's Cardiac stress test, which looked normal according to him. He also reviewed the cardiac stress test Dale took in May in Victoria and it was normal also.
He noted and showed us on xray a little "collapse" of dad's left lung near the top. Probably from the biopsy - of no real concern to him. He did see the small amount of fluid that will be tested later.
Jackie will call on Friday, Dec. 21 (3-5pm) for his surgery time.
One other blood test was accidentally left off the mornings order, so we'll stop by the lab for that additional blood draw after the thorocentisis.
Dale just got called back for that procedure 5 minutes ago. It should take 30 minutes.
I'll update later with more info on the meeting with Anesthesiologist..right now, I need a cup of coffee!
UPDATE: Dad's thorocentisis is under conscious sedation. After the 30 minute procedure, he will be in recovery for 45 minutes, so our day has been extended! CRAPPOLA!
The doctor performing this procedure was one hour late and then the ultrasound wasn't strong enough to detect the fluid. So off to CT Dale goes to get a CT scan so the doctor can find the fluid. 100cc's later, Dale is in recovery for one hour. After a chest Xray to verify the lungs handled that procedure - he's released! But no, he still has those two pesky add'l blood tests. Now after 15 hours of no food or drink, he's a tad dehydrated and there's a couple of attempt to get blood samples. Finally at 4pm we are out of the hospital and headed home to a delicious meal cooked by Dennis!
I need a Bacardi 8, Diet Coke and a Lime! Perhaps several!
After an hour's wait, we met with an Anesthesiologist, Tayab Andrabi. He was very thorough in documenting past surgeries, medications, previous procedures and other anesthesia related events. His review of Dale's condition was good and he expects a great outcome. He discussed complications and also the procedures.
He reviewed yesterday's Cardiac stress test, which looked normal according to him. He also reviewed the cardiac stress test Dale took in May in Victoria and it was normal also.
He noted and showed us on xray a little "collapse" of dad's left lung near the top. Probably from the biopsy - of no real concern to him. He did see the small amount of fluid that will be tested later.
Jackie will call on Friday, Dec. 21 (3-5pm) for his surgery time.
One other blood test was accidentally left off the mornings order, so we'll stop by the lab for that additional blood draw after the thorocentisis.
Dale just got called back for that procedure 5 minutes ago. It should take 30 minutes.
I'll update later with more info on the meeting with Anesthesiologist..right now, I need a cup of coffee!
UPDATE: Dad's thorocentisis is under conscious sedation. After the 30 minute procedure, he will be in recovery for 45 minutes, so our day has been extended! CRAPPOLA!
The doctor performing this procedure was one hour late and then the ultrasound wasn't strong enough to detect the fluid. So off to CT Dale goes to get a CT scan so the doctor can find the fluid. 100cc's later, Dale is in recovery for one hour. After a chest Xray to verify the lungs handled that procedure - he's released! But no, he still has those two pesky add'l blood tests. Now after 15 hours of no food or drink, he's a tad dehydrated and there's a couple of attempt to get blood samples. Finally at 4pm we are out of the hospital and headed home to a delicious meal cooked by Dennis!
I need a Bacardi 8, Diet Coke and a Lime! Perhaps several!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Tomorrow's Schedule Updated Again!
| Time | Appointments for 12/14/2007 |
| 8:00 AM | BLOOD/SPECIMEN COLLECTION |
| 9:15 AM | ANESTHESIA ASSESSMENT |
| 10:30 AM | CHECKIN - INTERVENTIONAL EXAM |
| 11:00 AM | DRAIN, THORACENTESIS US |
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
MD Anderson called again
Sharon (PA) called again. Dr. Rice wants one more procedure!!!! Waiting to see when interventional radiology can withdraw some of the fluid in the plueral. (Thoracentesis) UGH! Procedure takes 15-20 minutes. I sure hope that can get scheduled while mom and dad are here! Dr. Rice wants to make sure there are no cancer cells in that fluid. Fingers crossed once again! Results from that will take at least 48 hours!
Dad's looking a little rough today. Not sure if it's all the medicines or if it's just so much worry.
Sharon will call in another medication for pain to try and see if that improves. Lots of hard coughing this evening.
Geez!
Dad's looking a little rough today. Not sure if it's all the medicines or if it's just so much worry.
Sharon will call in another medication for pain to try and see if that improves. Lots of hard coughing this evening.
Geez!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Latest PET Scan results :)
I just received a call from Sharon Myers, Dr. Rice's Physician Assistant, who reported that Dale's PET Scan taken last week did not find any additional cancer in his body. The tumor is his left lung measured 3.7cm x 2.8cm. Apparently, the PET scan scores any cancer found with a numerical ranking. Rankings over 3-4 strongly suggest cancer. Dale's tumor scored a 21! Usually, they see rankings up to 30, according to Sharon. Dale's lymph nodes, spleen, adrenal glands, kidneys, liver and pancreas were all checked out and showed no abnormalities. A fluid filled cyst was seen in the kidneys (not a cancer concern) and a small amount of fluid was present in the pluerel region, in between lung and chest wall (not a cancer concern either). The fluid did have a numerical ranking of 1.7. Sharon assured me this was nothing to be concerned about and probably was the remnants of Dale's February pneumonia.
I asked Sharon about the rules regarding grandchildren visiting at MD Anderson. They are welcome, but will need to have a check-up (1st floor MD Anderson) to obtain a visitor badge.
Dale's had more discomfort this week and Sharon suggested he increase his pain medicine to three times a day. If that doesn't help, they will prescribe something else.
As Dale told me today, "I can't believe I'm having this much luck!"
I asked Sharon about the rules regarding grandchildren visiting at MD Anderson. They are welcome, but will need to have a check-up (1st floor MD Anderson) to obtain a visitor badge.
Dale's had more discomfort this week and Sharon suggested he increase his pain medicine to three times a day. If that doesn't help, they will prescribe something else.
As Dale told me today, "I can't believe I'm having this much luck!"
Sunday, December 9, 2007
UT MD Anderson is a Research Facility
Dale has consented to participate in three research studies at MD Anderson:
Ecogenetics of Lung Cancer
This study involves an interview with Dale along with bloodwork. Exposures and other environmental factors will be recorded.
Project #2 Genetic Epidemiology, Inherited Predisposition to Lung Cancer
This study will take "brushing" samples from both lungs during the bronchoscopy portion of the surgery and also similar "brushing" samples from both sides of his mouth.
Molecular Approaches to Novel Therapies for Cancer: Research Depository of Normal and Neoplastic Tissues - This study will use the remaining tumor (after pathologist has completed all testing) for research. Blood samples are required also and will be taken during surgery.
Dale always was pro-education!
Ecogenetics of Lung Cancer
This study involves an interview with Dale along with bloodwork. Exposures and other environmental factors will be recorded.
Project #2 Genetic Epidemiology, Inherited Predisposition to Lung Cancer
This study will take "brushing" samples from both lungs during the bronchoscopy portion of the surgery and also similar "brushing" samples from both sides of his mouth.
Molecular Approaches to Novel Therapies for Cancer: Research Depository of Normal and Neoplastic Tissues - This study will use the remaining tumor (after pathologist has completed all testing) for research. Blood samples are required also and will be taken during surgery.
Dale always was pro-education!
Thursday, December 6, 2007
The Plan
Probably more information than anyone needs or wants...but here's what I know after yesterday's visit with the surgeon.
Dale will have two additional test on Thursday, Dec. 13:
1. Pulmonary Stress test: This test combines a regular stress test with a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen levels. This test will help determine what Dale's exercise capacity is, related heart or lung problems and determine the need for oxygen while exercising.
2. Radionuclide stress test
He will have a meeting with the anesthesiologist on Friday, Dec. 14.
He will also have his pre-op blood work after meeting with the anesthesiologist.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dale has an incentive spirometer to exercise his lungs pre-operatively and during recovery.
Dale's surgery will be Dec. 27th, time TBA.
Dr. Rice will first perform a medianstinoscopy and a fiber optic bronchoscopy.
Pathology reports will be attained immediately and after a clean path report on those lymph nodes, the VATS will proceed. Dale will have the upper lobe of his left lung removed (lobectomy).
Dale will be moved from surgery to a private room in the hospital. He will remain in the hospital for approximately 7 days. He will have two drain tubes in place for 3-4 days. Dale will have either an epidural or PCA for pain during his stay. He will have breathing treatments every 30 minutes during the day and every 2 hours during the night!
Melissa has reserved a hotel room at the Rotary House for the first three nights of Dale's hospital stay.
Dale will be discharged to either my house in Pearland or his house in Victoria depending on his recovery. Follow ups with Dr. Rice will be 4 weeks after surgery and then every 6 months.
Dale will have two additional test on Thursday, Dec. 13:
1. Pulmonary Stress test: This test combines a regular stress test with a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen levels. This test will help determine what Dale's exercise capacity is, related heart or lung problems and determine the need for oxygen while exercising.
2. Radionuclide stress test
He will have a meeting with the anesthesiologist on Friday, Dec. 14.
He will also have his pre-op blood work after meeting with the anesthesiologist.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dale has an incentive spirometer to exercise his lungs pre-operatively and during recovery.
Dale's surgery will be Dec. 27th, time TBA.
Dr. Rice will first perform a medianstinoscopy and a fiber optic bronchoscopy.
Pathology reports will be attained immediately and after a clean path report on those lymph nodes, the VATS will proceed. Dale will have the upper lobe of his left lung removed (lobectomy).
Dale will be moved from surgery to a private room in the hospital. He will remain in the hospital for approximately 7 days. He will have two drain tubes in place for 3-4 days. Dale will have either an epidural or PCA for pain during his stay. He will have breathing treatments every 30 minutes during the day and every 2 hours during the night!
Melissa has reserved a hotel room at the Rotary House for the first three nights of Dale's hospital stay.
Dale will be discharged to either my house in Pearland or his house in Victoria depending on his recovery. Follow ups with Dr. Rice will be 4 weeks after surgery and then every 6 months.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Happy Days are Here Again!
Live, from MD Anderson - this update:
Dale will have VATS (video assisted thoracic surgery) of his upper left lung on Dec. 27th. This minimally invasive procedure will remove the tumor and the expectation is that no further treatments will be necessary. (One 3 inch incision and 3-4 small incisions)
Dale is having a PET Scan as I blog. He did not meet with the Radiation Oncologist. He will also have two more tests: Radio Nuclide Stress Test on his heart (not scheduled yet) and a pulmonary stress test (12/13 at 10am). Dale will meet with Anesthesiologist on 12/14 at 9:15am for his pre-op bloodwork, etc.
Dale will be in the hospital for 7 days and will follow up with the surgeon in 4 weeks (post op).
Dale has an apparatus that he is using to exercise his lungs (5 times a day). This apparatus will be used during recovery too.
Dr. Rice expects Dale to lose 20% of lung function as a result of the surgery and that will not inhibit his lifestyle!
Dec. 27th is the first opening on Dr. Rice's calendar!
I'll update more later on today...but let the heavens rejoice for what we heard today!
Dale will have VATS (video assisted thoracic surgery) of his upper left lung on Dec. 27th. This minimally invasive procedure will remove the tumor and the expectation is that no further treatments will be necessary. (One 3 inch incision and 3-4 small incisions)
Dale is having a PET Scan as I blog. He did not meet with the Radiation Oncologist. He will also have two more tests: Radio Nuclide Stress Test on his heart (not scheduled yet) and a pulmonary stress test (12/13 at 10am). Dale will meet with Anesthesiologist on 12/14 at 9:15am for his pre-op bloodwork, etc.
Dale will be in the hospital for 7 days and will follow up with the surgeon in 4 weeks (post op).
Dale has an apparatus that he is using to exercise his lungs (5 times a day). This apparatus will be used during recovery too.
Dr. Rice expects Dale to lose 20% of lung function as a result of the surgery and that will not inhibit his lifestyle!
Dec. 27th is the first opening on Dr. Rice's calendar!
I'll update more later on today...but let the heavens rejoice for what we heard today!
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
He has a Heart!
Dale had an echocardiogram today and the test proved he has a heart! We're so thrilled, because last week his Brain MRI confirmed that he also has a brain! WOW! Great news!
Dale also had a Xenon Ventilation procedure today. This test measures how each section of his lung is handling oxygen. Important information when the surgeon makes decisions on what to resect!
Tomorrow we meet with the thoracic surgeon and we are all anxious!
We stopped by the Residence Inn Medical Center to check out that hotel as an option for Jackie while Dale is in the hospital. They were so accommodating and helpful, this will be great if Jackie needs to stay close by the hospital.
More info tomorrow...stay tuned.
Dale also had a Xenon Ventilation procedure today. This test measures how each section of his lung is handling oxygen. Important information when the surgeon makes decisions on what to resect!
Tomorrow we meet with the thoracic surgeon and we are all anxious!
We stopped by the Residence Inn Medical Center to check out that hotel as an option for Jackie while Dale is in the hospital. They were so accommodating and helpful, this will be great if Jackie needs to stay close by the hospital.
More info tomorrow...stay tuned.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Today's tests
Dale had a Brain MRI today. Apparently it went well, since he slept through it! Advantage to having your hearing aids removed for the procedure. Next was a pulmonary function test.
Several of Dale's appointments next week have been shuffled around.
Tuesday: Xenon ventilation test and then an echocardiogram
Wednesday: Meet with thoracic surgeon, then if necessary, meet with radiation oncologist and have PET scan.
Dale seems to be doing well today as usual. He's using the valium whenever he feels anxious or pain and it seems to work well. It's a very small dose and perhaps the suggestion of relief from the pill is more helpful than the real medication. Either way, he's good and we're all happy!
Several of Dale's appointments next week have been shuffled around.
Tuesday: Xenon ventilation test and then an echocardiogram
Wednesday: Meet with thoracic surgeon, then if necessary, meet with radiation oncologist and have PET scan.
Dale seems to be doing well today as usual. He's using the valium whenever he feels anxious or pain and it seems to work well. It's a very small dose and perhaps the suggestion of relief from the pill is more helpful than the real medication. Either way, he's good and we're all happy!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Surgeon
We have a surgeon!
http://www.mdanderson.org/care_centers/thoracic/display.cfm?id=085bb8b6-09ed-415f-8cb0734c910f83ee&method=displayfull&pn=fa662779-7556-11d4-aec300508bdcce3a
Dad's appointment with him is Wednesday, Dec. 5 at 7:30am. Hopefully then we can this surgery scheduled!
Dale is having some periodic pains in the left chest area. He's taking medication and they are helping.
Anxiety and frustration abound!
http://www.mdanderson.org/care_centers/thoracic/display.cfm?id=085bb8b6-09ed-415f-8cb0734c910f83ee&method=displayfull&pn=fa662779-7556-11d4-aec300508bdcce3a
Dad's appointment with him is Wednesday, Dec. 5 at 7:30am. Hopefully then we can this surgery scheduled!
Dale is having some periodic pains in the left chest area. He's taking medication and they are helping.
Anxiety and frustration abound!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Playing the waiting game
We all enjoyed our Thanksgiving weekend in Victoria. All, except well maybe Shelley! She took a nasty fall chasing her wiener dog puppy and now finds herself on crutches with a nasty sprain!
Missy is headed to Houston tomorrow evening and she will join Jackie and Dale on their trip to MD Anderson this week for more testing.
Dale is anxious to get the surgery scheduled. MD Anderson runs on their own time and that's frustrating. I spoke with Dale's doctor's nurse today and she assures me that the surgery will happen in due time. The doctor's at MD Anderson know what they are dealing with and know what tests need to be done. I reminded the nurse that this was my father they were dealing with! I reminded her too that we were new to the world of MD Anderson and wanted to make sure that we were dotting our i's and crossing our t's so as to not slow down any steps.
Dale is back off his Plavix again. His primary doctor pulled that medication in anticipation of surgery in the near future.
Dale and Jackie will head to Pearland on Wednesday in anticipation of Thursday's appointments.
Dale has really been handling all the frustrations remarkably well. I'm not sure I would be in half as good as shape as he is. Frustration and anxiety seem to be his only real symptoms. He thinks that sometimes he's looking for symptoms when there really aren't any there. The mind is very powerful! Long days to dwell don't help!
Missy is headed to Houston tomorrow evening and she will join Jackie and Dale on their trip to MD Anderson this week for more testing.
Dale is anxious to get the surgery scheduled. MD Anderson runs on their own time and that's frustrating. I spoke with Dale's doctor's nurse today and she assures me that the surgery will happen in due time. The doctor's at MD Anderson know what they are dealing with and know what tests need to be done. I reminded the nurse that this was my father they were dealing with! I reminded her too that we were new to the world of MD Anderson and wanted to make sure that we were dotting our i's and crossing our t's so as to not slow down any steps.
Dale is back off his Plavix again. His primary doctor pulled that medication in anticipation of surgery in the near future.
Dale and Jackie will head to Pearland on Wednesday in anticipation of Thursday's appointments.
Dale has really been handling all the frustrations remarkably well. I'm not sure I would be in half as good as shape as he is. Frustration and anxiety seem to be his only real symptoms. He thinks that sometimes he's looking for symptoms when there really aren't any there. The mind is very powerful! Long days to dwell don't help!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
First list of appointments received!
Brain MRI on Thursday, Nov. 29 at 12:30pm.
Pulmonary Function Test on Thursday, Nov. 29 at 3pm.
Echocardiograph on Tuesday, Dec. 4 at 1pm.
Pet Scan on Tuesday, Dec. 4 at 2pm
Radiation Oncologist on Wednesday, Dec. 5 at 1pm.
These appointments are being made and he is being notified via internet. As more are posted - I'll post them here.
Dale is in super great spirits tonight. We do have much to thankful for!
Pulmonary Function Test on Thursday, Nov. 29 at 3pm.
Echocardiograph on Tuesday, Dec. 4 at 1pm.
Pet Scan on Tuesday, Dec. 4 at 2pm
Radiation Oncologist on Wednesday, Dec. 5 at 1pm.
These appointments are being made and he is being notified via internet. As more are posted - I'll post them here.
Dale is in super great spirits tonight. We do have much to thankful for!
MD Anderson visit #1
We just arrived home at 2:15 from our 8am appointment at MD Anderson. In addition to a lot of waiting, we met Dr. Ann Tsao. She was a very beautiful, articulate and personable Thoracic Oncologist.
She agreed with the Victoria doctors that this early stage cancer should be treated with surgery as a first line treatment. She ordered additional tests for Dale. (today he had bloodwork and a chest xray) These will be completed on Monday and Tuesday next week. Dale will be scheduled to see a surgeon next week also. Exact schedule times won't be available until Monday afternoon.
Dale and Jackie both enjoyed visiting with Dr. Tsao and her personality gave all of us a sense of strength and encouragement. She prescribed some medications for Dale to help with the continued muscle spasm in his neck and also a sleep aid for the restless nights.
Dale and Jackie will spend Wednesday night here in Pearland (traffic is too bad now) and then drive with Emily home to Victoria to get our Friday Thanksgiving Dinner started! The rest of us will follow Friday morning.
All in all, we all felt a sense of relief, that the news from this doctor was the same as what we had been expecting and gave us encouragement that this tumor could be removed successfully.
Procedures that may occur next week, pending approval by surgeon, are:
Mediastinoscopy
Xenon pulmonary lung function test?
Brain MRI (standard for all lung cancer patients)
Repeat PET scan
Echocardiogram
New CT
Dr. Tsao was very encouraging about her ability to coordinate any chemotherapy with Dale's doctors in Victoria. She was adamant that the surgery should be performed at MD Anderson. Their surgeons are fair superior at lung cancer!
She agreed with the Victoria doctors that this early stage cancer should be treated with surgery as a first line treatment. She ordered additional tests for Dale. (today he had bloodwork and a chest xray) These will be completed on Monday and Tuesday next week. Dale will be scheduled to see a surgeon next week also. Exact schedule times won't be available until Monday afternoon.
Dale and Jackie both enjoyed visiting with Dr. Tsao and her personality gave all of us a sense of strength and encouragement. She prescribed some medications for Dale to help with the continued muscle spasm in his neck and also a sleep aid for the restless nights.
Dale and Jackie will spend Wednesday night here in Pearland (traffic is too bad now) and then drive with Emily home to Victoria to get our Friday Thanksgiving Dinner started! The rest of us will follow Friday morning.
All in all, we all felt a sense of relief, that the news from this doctor was the same as what we had been expecting and gave us encouragement that this tumor could be removed successfully.
Procedures that may occur next week, pending approval by surgeon, are:
Mediastinoscopy
Xenon pulmonary lung function test?
Brain MRI (standard for all lung cancer patients)
Repeat PET scan
Echocardiogram
New CT
Dr. Tsao was very encouraging about her ability to coordinate any chemotherapy with Dale's doctors in Victoria. She was adamant that the surgery should be performed at MD Anderson. Their surgeons are fair superior at lung cancer!
Monday, November 19, 2007
Headed to MD Anderson
Dale's first appointment with MD Anderson is on Wednesday, Nov. 21st at 8am.
His appointment will be with Dr. Anne Tsao (see page 3 of http://www.mdanderson.org/pdf/thnmo_protocolreview0405.pdf)
Dr. Tsao is a Thoracic Medical Oncologist.
Dale's appointment is in the Clark Clinic at MD Anderson.
We are thankful to get a quick appointment. His scheduler had a cancellation and offered us the quick time slot!
Jackie and Dale will drive back to Pearland on Tuesday afternoon.
Side note: I contacted Dr. Pickett's office in Victoria today. Dr. Pickett will be back from vacation on Nov. 28th. (Dale has his rescheduled appointment that day) His office is currently scheduling surgeries for the first week in December.
Our plan is to still have Thanksgiving in Victoria on Friday!
His appointment will be with Dr. Anne Tsao (see page 3 of http://www.mdanderson.org/pdf/thnmo_protocolreview0405.pdf)
Dr. Tsao is a Thoracic Medical Oncologist.
Dale's appointment is in the Clark Clinic at MD Anderson.
We are thankful to get a quick appointment. His scheduler had a cancellation and offered us the quick time slot!
Jackie and Dale will drive back to Pearland on Tuesday afternoon.
Side note: I contacted Dr. Pickett's office in Victoria today. Dr. Pickett will be back from vacation on Nov. 28th. (Dale has his rescheduled appointment that day) His office is currently scheduling surgeries for the first week in December.
Our plan is to still have Thanksgiving in Victoria on Friday!
Friday, November 16, 2007
Still waiting
We are still waiting to hear from MD Anderson with an appointment time.
Jackie and Dale are in Pearland for Dennis' birthday. Dale appears to be feeling pretty good. Aches and pains from the previous weeks tests seem to have resolved themselves.
I'll post again, when we have new news!
Jackie and Dale are in Pearland for Dennis' birthday. Dale appears to be feeling pretty good. Aches and pains from the previous weeks tests seem to have resolved themselves.
I'll post again, when we have new news!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Contact with MD Anderson
I have spoken with Alyssa at MD Anderson's Thorasic Center business office. She has received all of dad's medical records required and will call to make an appointment as soon as she has reviewed them. (24-48 hours). Appointments are being scheduled for 7-10 days out.
Marcy and I left Victoria this morning for Pearland. Mom and Dad will drive up tomorrow to join us for a fun weekend celebrating Dennis' 50th birthday!
Pray for a fast appointment time and promising news from the doctor's at MD Anderson!
Marcy and I left Victoria this morning for Pearland. Mom and Dad will drive up tomorrow to join us for a fun weekend celebrating Dennis' 50th birthday!
Pray for a fast appointment time and promising news from the doctor's at MD Anderson!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Apparently Not!
Dr. Pickett canceled our 2pm appointment and rescheduled us on Nov. 28th! %&*$##*(@#*
Dr. Adams will be setting us up with someone at MD Anderson to hopefully get in with before Nov. 28th.
Dr. Adams is now questioning whether or not Dale is a reasonable candidate for a lobectomy.
In the words of my mother, "I'm about ready to run off!"
Until later.....
Queen Frazzled!
Dr. Adams will be setting us up with someone at MD Anderson to hopefully get in with before Nov. 28th.
Dr. Adams is now questioning whether or not Dale is a reasonable candidate for a lobectomy.
In the words of my mother, "I'm about ready to run off!"
Until later.....
Queen Frazzled!
Is today the day we get a definite plan presented?
We're up and ready for several appointments today. Dale slept better last night, actually in his bed and not the recliner. Chest is still sore but he's only taking Tylenol for that pain.
Idealistically, we would like to schedule the resection/surgery for Monday or Tuesday, Nov. 19 or 20. Dad's really wants to stay in Victoria and he doesn't want to delay the surgery waiting on MD Anderson to get us in. Not my "best option", but he is the patient and so I'll comply.
As has been the rule for the last week and a half, our current "plan" will hit multiple more glitches and change about 2-3 times per day! Confusion and frustration..two new states I live in!
I'll update again this evening after we meet with both doctors.
Idealistically, we would like to schedule the resection/surgery for Monday or Tuesday, Nov. 19 or 20. Dad's really wants to stay in Victoria and he doesn't want to delay the surgery waiting on MD Anderson to get us in. Not my "best option", but he is the patient and so I'll comply.
As has been the rule for the last week and a half, our current "plan" will hit multiple more glitches and change about 2-3 times per day! Confusion and frustration..two new states I live in!
I'll update again this evening after we meet with both doctors.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Biopsy Results
Poorly differentiated Non Small Cell Lung Cancer.
Dr. Taylor Pickett (thorasic surgeon) 2pm appointment 11/14
Dr. Robin Adams (pulmonary) 3:30pm appointment 11/14
Dr. Taylor Pickett (thorasic surgeon) 2pm appointment 11/14
Dr. Robin Adams (pulmonary) 3:30pm appointment 11/14
Waiting, waiting, waiting!
3:45 - Still waiting! Having one Bacardi 8 with Diet coke or 30! Looks like we won't know anything until tomorrow morning
1pm - Still waiting! Nauseous!
Noon- Still waiting! Dammit!
11am - Still waiting!
Results haven't come in on yesterday's biopsies.
Dale had an uneasy night, he slept in recliner because lying down in his bed was too painful.
Dammit, why can't pathology be faster!
1pm - Still waiting! Nauseous!
Noon- Still waiting! Dammit!
11am - Still waiting!
Results haven't come in on yesterday's biopsies.
Dale had an uneasy night, he slept in recliner because lying down in his bed was too painful.
Dammit, why can't pathology be faster!
Monday, November 12, 2007
Biopsy Complete
Dale arrived at Detar Hospital this morning at 9am for an 11am needle biopsy of the tumor in his left lung. At 11:15am he was taken to radiology where Dr. Marriquin (diagnostic radiologists) took 3 core samples of the tumor. Those samples were taken to pathology where they will be tested. Testing will take 24 - 48 hours. Dale was pretty uncomfortable until a couple of pain pills worked their magic. We had hoped to talk with Dr. Pickett (thorasic surgeon) but Dale wanted to head home before Pickett could make it to the room.
We expect to hear from Dr. Henry (Dale's primary doctor) tomorrow morning with the results.
Assuming surgery is on the horizon, we will visit with the thorasic surgery on Wednesday at 2pm.
It's 5pm and Dad is sitting at the kitchen table and appears to be relatively comfortable. We are all disappointed in the delay in receiving the pathology report.
It's been really great having Marcy here to help out. She had plans to fly home Wednesday after our last appointment.
We expect to hear from Dr. Henry (Dale's primary doctor) tomorrow morning with the results.
Assuming surgery is on the horizon, we will visit with the thorasic surgery on Wednesday at 2pm.
It's 5pm and Dad is sitting at the kitchen table and appears to be relatively comfortable. We are all disappointed in the delay in receiving the pathology report.
It's been really great having Marcy here to help out. She had plans to fly home Wednesday after our last appointment.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
The Power of Family
If one ever underestimated the power of family, today was a day to realize the importance of family! I've had time to visit with family members here this weekend and chat on the phone with others far away and I think we are all on the same page as far as Dale's wishes for treatment.
Fun conversations, laughter and good food have helped erase the "C" word from the week's events. Hallelujah!
Dale's neck pain is manageable today. Lots of tylenol and heating pad treatments! This must be from the bronchoscopy procedure on Wednesday and the manipulations during that procedure.
Ribs and brisket with all the trimmings are heating on the pit. Texas Tech football on the TV and the quiet realization that times like these are invaluable!
Our eyes on on curing this disease by removing it from his body. We're all expecting the surgeon to report back on surgery day with clean margins on the tumor and a speedy recovery! ( My new mantra!)
Go Tech!
Fun conversations, laughter and good food have helped erase the "C" word from the week's events. Hallelujah!
Dale's neck pain is manageable today. Lots of tylenol and heating pad treatments! This must be from the bronchoscopy procedure on Wednesday and the manipulations during that procedure.
Ribs and brisket with all the trimmings are heating on the pit. Texas Tech football on the TV and the quiet realization that times like these are invaluable!
Our eyes on on curing this disease by removing it from his body. We're all expecting the surgeon to report back on surgery day with clean margins on the tumor and a speedy recovery! ( My new mantra!)
Go Tech!
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Neck issues
Dale's in bed early tonight. He's been nursing a stiff neck that has become increasing worse all day. He's very excited about being in Marble Falls this weekend. We all need the change of location, hopefully we can clear the air and get off the topic of "cancer" for a little while.
Dale is really pushing to go ahead with the lobectomy in Victoria. I've spoken with two doctors on this subject of hurrying to the operating table and both don't feel that a couple of weeks of second opinions makes his prognosis any worse. But, the patient's mental well-being is a concern. Dale hasn't slept a full night since I arrived in Victoria on Monday.
So far I think I've had every range of emotions I've ever had - in the past 3 days!
Hopefully we can have a fun weekend and be ready for the needle biopsy on Monday morning at 11AM!
Dale is really pushing to go ahead with the lobectomy in Victoria. I've spoken with two doctors on this subject of hurrying to the operating table and both don't feel that a couple of weeks of second opinions makes his prognosis any worse. But, the patient's mental well-being is a concern. Dale hasn't slept a full night since I arrived in Victoria on Monday.
So far I think I've had every range of emotions I've ever had - in the past 3 days!
Hopefully we can have a fun weekend and be ready for the needle biopsy on Monday morning at 11AM!
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Astounded!
Amazed and astounded! I just received a phone call from Dr. Pickett, the Thorasic Surgeon who may be performing dad's lobectomy. Did I mention is was 10:10 pm and the conversation lasted 32 minutes? Holy cow! Mother and I were on both extension phones and I referred to my "Spiral" to the page where we had been keeping questions for the surgeon. Dr. Pickett was very kind and jovial about the questioning session.
For those of you who have found yourself in my situation, can you tell me how does your head handle all the millions of facts, opinions, observations, comments and questions that constantly play in you head? I feel like a hamster on a wheel with the inability to just jump off.
Most of the time, getting more information just leads to more confusion.
It's like I'm "living the dream"! maybe nightmare is a better word!
For those of you who have found yourself in my situation, can you tell me how does your head handle all the millions of facts, opinions, observations, comments and questions that constantly play in you head? I feel like a hamster on a wheel with the inability to just jump off.
Most of the time, getting more information just leads to more confusion.
It's like I'm "living the dream"! maybe nightmare is a better word!
First dip on the roller coaster
Dale had a bronchoscopy at 7am this morning. The 30 minute procedure was uneventful and his recovery was over by 9am. After Dr. Adams performed this procedure, he met with Mother and I to discuss Dad's treatment.
Dr. Adams explained that although dad's lung function test taken yesterday was not perfect, it was sufficient to move forward on a lobectomy (removing the upper portion) of his left lung. He felt that after surgery, Dale's lung function would be sufficient for a normal lifestyle. When questioned about Dale's reliance on oxygen after the surgery, Dr. Adams felt that Dale would be on oxygen for some time and weaning himself off of it would be up to Dale. Dr. Adams has consulted with Dr. Pickett (Thorasic Surgeon) and they believe the resection of the tumor via lobectomy can remove all cancer from that lung.
Dr. Adams does not feel that the needle biopsy is necessary. He feels that the cancer is a non-small cell lung cancer that should be removed. He doesn't need an actual biopsy to make the recommendation for surgery. He also stated that he would have to cancel the biopsy scheduled already for tomorrow morning, since he hadn't taken dad off his Plavik (blood thinner). Dr. Adams "forgot" that dad was on Plaviks and no needle biopsy can be performed until Dale is off the Plaviks for 5 days.
Dr. Adams feels that surgery should be done quickly.
Without a biopsy, Dale can not be seen at MD Anderson for a second opinion.
Dale was an excellent patient and had all the nurses laughing! He is upright and reading the paper - with little to no after effects of the anesthesia. Dale's vitals were all great and his appetite is robust!
After a long conversation with my cousin Dr. Matt, he explains that sometimes getting a good needle biopsy is difficult. When unable to get a good biopsy, the option is to open up the chest for the biopsy. In light of this, most dr's opt to go ahead with the lobectomy and get the pathology after the surgery. Matt feels this is what Dr. Adams is doing. If a good biopsy is not attained, then there would be no choice but to have the surgery here and find out after the fact what it was. Matt hopes a good biopsy could be attained and then a trip to MD Anderson for treatment!
Dr. Henry (primary care) called and agrees with biopsy and surgery option. He knows Dr. Pickett and thinks he's a great surgeon.
I have contacted MD Anderson and started the process of getting Dale in for a second opinion.
I will be bringing Jackie and Dale to Marble Falls tomorrow for the long weekend. I hope to spend a fun weekend with family and get their input on the upcoming days and weeks of treatment!
Dr. Adams explained that although dad's lung function test taken yesterday was not perfect, it was sufficient to move forward on a lobectomy (removing the upper portion) of his left lung. He felt that after surgery, Dale's lung function would be sufficient for a normal lifestyle. When questioned about Dale's reliance on oxygen after the surgery, Dr. Adams felt that Dale would be on oxygen for some time and weaning himself off of it would be up to Dale. Dr. Adams has consulted with Dr. Pickett (Thorasic Surgeon) and they believe the resection of the tumor via lobectomy can remove all cancer from that lung.
Dr. Adams does not feel that the needle biopsy is necessary. He feels that the cancer is a non-small cell lung cancer that should be removed. He doesn't need an actual biopsy to make the recommendation for surgery. He also stated that he would have to cancel the biopsy scheduled already for tomorrow morning, since he hadn't taken dad off his Plavik (blood thinner). Dr. Adams "forgot" that dad was on Plaviks and no needle biopsy can be performed until Dale is off the Plaviks for 5 days.
Dr. Adams feels that surgery should be done quickly.
Without a biopsy, Dale can not be seen at MD Anderson for a second opinion.
Dale was an excellent patient and had all the nurses laughing! He is upright and reading the paper - with little to no after effects of the anesthesia. Dale's vitals were all great and his appetite is robust!
After a long conversation with my cousin Dr. Matt, he explains that sometimes getting a good needle biopsy is difficult. When unable to get a good biopsy, the option is to open up the chest for the biopsy. In light of this, most dr's opt to go ahead with the lobectomy and get the pathology after the surgery. Matt feels this is what Dr. Adams is doing. If a good biopsy is not attained, then there would be no choice but to have the surgery here and find out after the fact what it was. Matt hopes a good biopsy could be attained and then a trip to MD Anderson for treatment!
Dr. Henry (primary care) called and agrees with biopsy and surgery option. He knows Dr. Pickett and thinks he's a great surgeon.
I have contacted MD Anderson and started the process of getting Dale in for a second opinion.
I will be bringing Jackie and Dale to Marble Falls tomorrow for the long weekend. I hope to spend a fun weekend with family and get their input on the upcoming days and weeks of treatment!
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
The beginning
Today Dale had a full body Pulmonary Function test (PFT). This was a one hour fifteen minute test performed in Dr. Adam's office (pulmonologist). Larry Gebheart (Respiratory Therapist) performed the test. Dale had 5 tests performed with 2-3 repeats for each test to verify the validity of the results. These tests measured capacity, flow and level of oxygen uptake. Halfway through the testing, Dale received an "Albuterol" breathing treatment and the results will be reviewed to see what impact that treatment had on tests. This treatment was tiring for Dale.
Hopefully he will sleep well tonight. The last few days have been anxious and sleep has been difficult. Dale received high marks for being a "good" patient during his PFT!
His spirits are high and he remains without symptoms.
Dale also pre-registered for a Bronchoscopy tomorrow morning at Citizen's Hospital in Victoria. Dr. Adams will perform this standard procedure and hopes to be able to biopsy the tumor. The procedure begins at 7am. Dale will be anesthetized and will come home later in the day.
Hopefully he will sleep well tonight. The last few days have been anxious and sleep has been difficult. Dale received high marks for being a "good" patient during his PFT!
His spirits are high and he remains without symptoms.
Dale also pre-registered for a Bronchoscopy tomorrow morning at Citizen's Hospital in Victoria. Dr. Adams will perform this standard procedure and hopes to be able to biopsy the tumor. The procedure begins at 7am. Dale will be anesthetized and will come home later in the day.
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