The Radiologist mailed a copy of the report from Dale's recent scans. Marcy translated those into an email and we forwarded them on to our "personal physician", our cousin, Dr. Matt! Matt called with a simple translation of all the medical jargon on that report. Matt says everything looks good! No tumors or big strokes, just a mild blockage on his right carotid artery. Probably not enough blockage to result in surgery!
I'm sure Dale will hear from his primary care doctor this week to go over that report "officially". But for now, we're glad that the initial report is good!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Speed bump in the road of life!
Last week, Dale had a dizzy spell that lasted a few minutes. It was accompanied with some tingling in his arm. Jackie took him to the ER at Citizens and he was checked out and sent home. ER doctor didn't see anything remarkable as the spell had ended by the time he got to the ER.
Fast forward a week and Dale goes to see his primary care doctor for a followup as instructed by the ER doctor. Dale's primary care doctor thinks Dale may have had a mild stroke. Dale has been bothered by periodic numbness around his mouth since the dizzy spell. Dale's primary doctor has ordered an MRI of his head and neck, today - Thursday.
Marcy just happens to be in Victoria for a visit - she's a great sense of comfort to them and me! I'm not sure when we will get the results of the MRI - but we are again asking for prayers that there isn't anything lurking in that image!
Until the MRI report---
The Queen
Fast forward a week and Dale goes to see his primary care doctor for a followup as instructed by the ER doctor. Dale's primary care doctor thinks Dale may have had a mild stroke. Dale has been bothered by periodic numbness around his mouth since the dizzy spell. Dale's primary doctor has ordered an MRI of his head and neck, today - Thursday.
Marcy just happens to be in Victoria for a visit - she's a great sense of comfort to them and me! I'm not sure when we will get the results of the MRI - but we are again asking for prayers that there isn't anything lurking in that image!
Until the MRI report---
The Queen
Friday, October 24, 2008
Still doing great
Dale is still doing great as he reaches his one year anniversary of the diagnosis. Dale has regained about 10 pounds of the 30 he lost over the course of diagnosis, treatment and recovery. He continues on a lot of maintenance medications. Some for his heart, most for his lungs and their function. He does have some pain in his chest when he coughs...this appears to be residual scar tissues pulling when he coughs. Dale can walk enough to do the grocery shopping and take the vehicles in for maintenance work, etc. He enjoys cooking and grilling - always glad when company comes to give him a reason to fire up the grill!
Dale and Jackie will be traveling the high seas this year for Christmas. They will join my family for 7 days in the Western Caribbean aboard the Voyager of the Seas. Santa visits cruise ships, too!
Dale and Jackie are standing a tad taller lately. Word that they will soon be Great Grandparents has definitely put a sparkle in their eyes and a spring in their step. Congrats to Mike and Rachel!
Dale and Jackie will be traveling the high seas this year for Christmas. They will join my family for 7 days in the Western Caribbean aboard the Voyager of the Seas. Santa visits cruise ships, too!
Dale and Jackie are standing a tad taller lately. Word that they will soon be Great Grandparents has definitely put a sparkle in their eyes and a spring in their step. Congrats to Mike and Rachel!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
No Cancer Here!
YIPPEE!
Dale's CT scan yesterday shows no tumors anywhere!
Dr. Rice will continue to do semi-annual followups and keep a watchful eye on lymph nodes...but for now, Dale is still cancer-free!
Let the party begin!
Dale says he's still the luckiest man he knows!
Dale's CT scan yesterday shows no tumors anywhere!
Dr. Rice will continue to do semi-annual followups and keep a watchful eye on lymph nodes...but for now, Dale is still cancer-free!
Let the party begin!
Dale says he's still the luckiest man he knows!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Time for the first 6 month check up
Dale will travel to Houston next Tuesday, Aug. 12th for more tests followed by a visit with his doctor at MD Anderson on the 13th to review the test results.
Dale will also discuss the Cymetra injection option to further improve his voice.
Dale reports today that he is feeling great.
His family is crossing all fingers and toes that the news next week is great!
Dale will also discuss the Cymetra injection option to further improve his voice.
Dale reports today that he is feeling great.
His family is crossing all fingers and toes that the news next week is great!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Room Makeover!
Greetings! This is Shelley (Phyllis's Daughter) posting. Jackie and Dale recently gave their master bedroom a great makeover. I am attaching a few pictures of their room. They are really enjoying the new laminate floor and red walls!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
New Email address
Hi All,
We are switching ISP's on Thursday (7/17) and wanted to let you know our new address: dale_stover (with an underscore, no spaces)@yahoo.com. We hope the transition is smooth!
All is well in Victoria, we hope you all are staying cool and having a fun summer!
Love,
Jackie and Dale
We are switching ISP's on Thursday (7/17) and wanted to let you know our new address: dale_stover (with an underscore, no spaces)@yahoo.com. We hope the transition is smooth!
All is well in Victoria, we hope you all are staying cool and having a fun summer!
Love,
Jackie and Dale
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
July Update
After visiting with Jackie and Dale over the 4th of July weekend, I can report that things are going great! Dale has passed the benchmark of 6 months post-op and you can really tell. His color, weight and overall health are great.
Over the holiday weekend, we worked with them to repaint their bedroom, remove all the carpeting (new flooring installed July 7th) and repaired some cracks in existing drywall. Dale was able to help out on many of those items.
We also drove down to Indianola to visit with Terry and Mike (Dale's neice and her husband from El Paso). It was great seeing them again and checking out their beach bungalow!
Dale's voice is good. Sometimes later on in the day, it get raspy and after Dale's next checkup appointment (Aug. 12th) he may decide to try the injection therapy to permanently "fix" the voice issue.
Over the holiday weekend, we worked with them to repaint their bedroom, remove all the carpeting (new flooring installed July 7th) and repaired some cracks in existing drywall. Dale was able to help out on many of those items.
We also drove down to Indianola to visit with Terry and Mike (Dale's neice and her husband from El Paso). It was great seeing them again and checking out their beach bungalow!
Dale's voice is good. Sometimes later on in the day, it get raspy and after Dale's next checkup appointment (Aug. 12th) he may decide to try the injection therapy to permanently "fix" the voice issue.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Road trip
Jackie and Dale are on their first road trip since surgery. They started last Friday with a trip to Pearland to visit Phyllis and Dennis. After a night in Pearland, they headed east to Lake Charles to visit Bill and BillieSue (brother and sister-in-law). They'll head back through Pearland on Tuesday to visit with The Boedekers and The Gaubatz (who are in Texas for Maurice's niece's graduation). Wednesday will be a pool day! Thursday everyone will head home. Dale has another appointment with the eye doctor for an injection to treat Macular Degeneration.
Dale's voice still waivers from normal to hoarse. Dale still struggles with pain in his chest wall and nerve pains in the same area. Dr. Rice's PA has told Dale to make the decision for treatment based solely on his wishes. They will offer him options, but it's his decision if he wants to pursue them.
Oh and if by chance you are in the same room with Jackie...check out the new "BLING" on her left hand! Holy Moly! Dale outdid himself!
Dale's voice still waivers from normal to hoarse. Dale still struggles with pain in his chest wall and nerve pains in the same area. Dr. Rice's PA has told Dale to make the decision for treatment based solely on his wishes. They will offer him options, but it's his decision if he wants to pursue them.
Oh and if by chance you are in the same room with Jackie...check out the new "BLING" on her left hand! Holy Moly! Dale outdid himself!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Update from Victoria
Live from Victoria!
Dale's voice is nearly normal today. He has lingering nerve spasms near the incision from the surgery and he is trying to use techniques from the PA in Dr. Rice's office to help alleviate these spasms. He's also having some itching near the incision. While these are troublesome, they aren't really a concern - more a nuisance.
Mother's shingles are well now!
Happy Mother's Day to all mom's today!
Dale's voice is nearly normal today. He has lingering nerve spasms near the incision from the surgery and he is trying to use techniques from the PA in Dr. Rice's office to help alleviate these spasms. He's also having some itching near the incision. While these are troublesome, they aren't really a concern - more a nuisance.
Mother's shingles are well now!
Happy Mother's Day to all mom's today!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
I Can't Believe How Lucky I Am!
Dale has made this statement a zillion times since his diagnosis with Lung Cancer! Even on those days when Dale felt like crap, he remembered this and said it often. To those outside of his world, you might find this to be an odd statement from someone who hears the word "Cancer" as a diagnosis. But for Dale and Jackie and those of us who've witnessed the little miracles everyday for the past 5 months...you have to wonder, "How could Dale be so lucky?".
1. Early, accidental diagnosis.
2. Quick admission into MD Anderson and superb doctors.
3. Cancer localized in one spot in one lung.
4. Voice recovering from the nerve damage without treatment.
5. Lung capacity after the surgery amazingly similar to capacity before lobectomy.
6. No chemotherapy or radiation needed post-operatively.
Yeah, he's pretty darn lucky!
Oh yeah, Jackie's recovering from the Shingles! We're looking forward to a hap, hap, happy Mother's Day next weekend in Victoria! We're so LUCKY!
1. Early, accidental diagnosis.
2. Quick admission into MD Anderson and superb doctors.
3. Cancer localized in one spot in one lung.
4. Voice recovering from the nerve damage without treatment.
5. Lung capacity after the surgery amazingly similar to capacity before lobectomy.
6. No chemotherapy or radiation needed post-operatively.
Yeah, he's pretty darn lucky!
Oh yeah, Jackie's recovering from the Shingles! We're looking forward to a hap, hap, happy Mother's Day next weekend in Victoria! We're so LUCKY!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Continued Elation!
Dale's voice remains strong! Recovery sounds likes it's going well. Mom reports that Dale will be going to the 25 Year Club dinner at Alcoa tomorrow night!
Jackie; however, is now a patient! She has the Shingles! UGH!
Jackie; however, is now a patient! She has the Shingles! UGH!
Friday, April 11, 2008
Fantastic News!
For those of you who've had the chance over the last 3 months to talk to Dale, you've all been aware of the deficit in his voice caused by nerve damage during this surgery.
Well today is a new day and you should call Dale and listen to him now! Hallelujah! His voice is back and strong and we are certainly rejoicing!
Dad's appointment next week at MD Anderson for treatment has been postponed!
Lots of happy tears shed during phone conversations yesterday, by family members who rejoice that the "old Dale" is back!
Well today is a new day and you should call Dale and listen to him now! Hallelujah! His voice is back and strong and we are certainly rejoicing!
Dad's appointment next week at MD Anderson for treatment has been postponed!
Lots of happy tears shed during phone conversations yesterday, by family members who rejoice that the "old Dale" is back!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
April Update
Dale had a followup appointment today at his Pulmonogist's office. He was seen by a new PA who interviewed Dale and updated his file. Dale had a chest xray. He's had a bit of a productive cough over the past week, so they will do some testing to rule out an infection there. Dale will remain off of the Albuterol breathing treatments. They were discontinued when he had the Atrial Fib event at MD Anderson in December.
Dale resumed his Lucentis injections (treatment for Macular Degeneration) in his eyes. Last week's injection turned into an event of sort. Bleeding plus a lot of pain from the eyedrops prescribed afterwards. Eye doctor wants Plaviks stopped before the next round of injections to alleviate the bleeding issue. Dale's not to excited about the painful eyedrops. May 1st is next appointment..not sure he'll keep that appt. though! Dale will go see the eye doctor on Friday for a follow-up appointment.
Next week, Dale will be back at MD Anderson to get treatment for the still ailing vocal cords. Testing on the 16th and injection on the 17th. Fingers crossed that his voice is back to normal after this treatment!
Dale resumed his Lucentis injections (treatment for Macular Degeneration) in his eyes. Last week's injection turned into an event of sort. Bleeding plus a lot of pain from the eyedrops prescribed afterwards. Eye doctor wants Plaviks stopped before the next round of injections to alleviate the bleeding issue. Dale's not to excited about the painful eyedrops. May 1st is next appointment..not sure he'll keep that appt. though! Dale will go see the eye doctor on Friday for a follow-up appointment.
Next week, Dale will be back at MD Anderson to get treatment for the still ailing vocal cords. Testing on the 16th and injection on the 17th. Fingers crossed that his voice is back to normal after this treatment!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
SB2K8
Mission Accomplished!
Dale and Jackie just completed a 7 day Eastern Caribbean cruise and 3 days at Walt Disneyworld!
Geez, more fun than anyone thought was humanly possible.
Tired, yes - extremely! But that's the beauty of the vacation. Less than 3 months from major surgery and he's riding on the Spaceship Earth at Epcot and sunbathing in the Dominican Republic!
More later! Rest now!
Dale and Jackie just completed a 7 day Eastern Caribbean cruise and 3 days at Walt Disneyworld!
Geez, more fun than anyone thought was humanly possible.
Tired, yes - extremely! But that's the beauty of the vacation. Less than 3 months from major surgery and he's riding on the Spaceship Earth at Epcot and sunbathing in the Dominican Republic!
More later! Rest now!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Latest Poll Results
Dale and Jackie will be hosting a Bon Voyage Party on their balcony on Sunday afternoon at 5:00pm. All friends/family are welcome to join in the celebration as the NCL Dawn departs the Port of Miami for 7 glorious days in the Eastern Caribbean!
Photos of the celebration will be posted upon their return!
Photos of the celebration will be posted upon their return!
Friday, March 7, 2008
Pre-Cruise Update
Dale is getting stronger each day. Although he's lost a couple more pounds, he's eating and exercising. He reports that he's back to grocery shopping and taking care of the cars and all those "normal" activities he is used to doing.
Dale and Jackie fly to Miami with "my family" on Mar. 15th. Here's the details for our cruise vacation: http://hometown.aol.com/pboedeker/SpringBreak2008.html
After the cruise is over, Jackie, Dale and I will continue the vacation with the Gaubatz' at Disneyworld!
Dale has his Option #2 appointment scheduled:
04/16/2008 10:15 AM
LARYNGOSCOPY, STROBOSCOPY
04/17/2008 6:30 AM
PATIENT CHECK-IN PROCESSING
04/17/2008 7:00 AM
KUPFERMAN, MICHAEL M.D.
Dale's voice fluctuates alot. Somedays it sounds stronger, then somedays the volume is low and it's real airy. Perhaps in the next month there will be a consistancy to his voice and we can cancel these appointments.
Dale has resumed his injections for Macular Degeneration. This 3 month series had just started when Dale was diagnosed with lung cancer. Dale also has a followup appointment with Dr. Krueger (new cardiologist) next week to review his medications.
Dale and Jackie fly to Miami with "my family" on Mar. 15th. Here's the details for our cruise vacation: http://hometown.aol.com/pboedeker/SpringBreak2008.html
After the cruise is over, Jackie, Dale and I will continue the vacation with the Gaubatz' at Disneyworld!
Dale has his Option #2 appointment scheduled:
04/16/2008 10:15 AM
LARYNGOSCOPY, STROBOSCOPY
04/17/2008 6:30 AM
PATIENT CHECK-IN PROCESSING
04/17/2008 7:00 AM
KUPFERMAN, MICHAEL M.D.
Dale's voice fluctuates alot. Somedays it sounds stronger, then somedays the volume is low and it's real airy. Perhaps in the next month there will be a consistancy to his voice and we can cancel these appointments.
Dale has resumed his injections for Macular Degeneration. This 3 month series had just started when Dale was diagnosed with lung cancer. Dale also has a followup appointment with Dr. Krueger (new cardiologist) next week to review his medications.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
To Be Hoarse or Not, That is the Question?
Dale met with Dr. Michael Kupferman today at MD Anderson. Dr. Kupferman looked at Dale's ailing vocal cords and laid out three options for treating them.
Option #1: Do nothing and see if over the next few months Dale's voice returns. This assumes that mother nature will work to compensate for the damage inflicted by Dr. Rice during the lobectomy. (This is Dr. Rice's suggestion, also)
Option #2: Return to MD Anderson for an injection into the ailing vocal cord to reposition it to a location closer to the other vocal cord. This treatment lasts about 3-6 months. Can be repeated as necessary. Treatment is done in the chair, takes about an hour.
Option #3: Surgery to permanently position the ailing vocal cord in a location closer to the other vocal cord.
Dale's decision is to schedule Option #2 in April and then hope the Option #1 happens before Option #2 date! Fingers crossed again!
On the plus side, Dale was able to walk to his appointments today. Last week, he relied on a wheelchair. His appetite is somewhat better this week and he's able to climb a flight of stairs now.
Countdown to Cruise - 23 days!
Option #1: Do nothing and see if over the next few months Dale's voice returns. This assumes that mother nature will work to compensate for the damage inflicted by Dr. Rice during the lobectomy. (This is Dr. Rice's suggestion, also)
Option #2: Return to MD Anderson for an injection into the ailing vocal cord to reposition it to a location closer to the other vocal cord. This treatment lasts about 3-6 months. Can be repeated as necessary. Treatment is done in the chair, takes about an hour.
Option #3: Surgery to permanently position the ailing vocal cord in a location closer to the other vocal cord.
Dale's decision is to schedule Option #2 in April and then hope the Option #1 happens before Option #2 date! Fingers crossed again!
On the plus side, Dale was able to walk to his appointments today. Last week, he relied on a wheelchair. His appetite is somewhat better this week and he's able to climb a flight of stairs now.
Countdown to Cruise - 23 days!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Eating and strength
Dale continues to fight his latest battle - weight loss and fatigue. His weight lose has slowed considerably, but he's lost 26 pounds since his Dec. 27th surgery.
Dale is working with a physical therapist 3 times a week to help rebuild his strength. Jackie is trying any recipe she can get her hands on to find a calorie-rich food that Dale likes. His "taster" is off and his stomach is so small from his recent illness, he doesn't find much pleasing to his palate and his stomach fills quickly! His latest supplement is milk shakes made with "Boost" and ice cream.
Jackie and Dale will return to Houston on Wednesday afternoon for a morning appointment on Thursday at MD Anderson. We're hoping for a simple fix to his vocal cord nerve damage.
Dale is working with a physical therapist 3 times a week to help rebuild his strength. Jackie is trying any recipe she can get her hands on to find a calorie-rich food that Dale likes. His "taster" is off and his stomach is so small from his recent illness, he doesn't find much pleasing to his palate and his stomach fills quickly! His latest supplement is milk shakes made with "Boost" and ice cream.
Jackie and Dale will return to Houston on Wednesday afternoon for a morning appointment on Thursday at MD Anderson. We're hoping for a simple fix to his vocal cord nerve damage.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
See Ya in 6 Months!
Dr. Tsao (chemotherapy oncologist) at MD Anderson congratulated Dale on his pathology report today! Yippee, no chemotherapy or further treatments recommended! She does want Dale to strive for 2400 calories/day to get him in shape for his Spring Break cruise.
Dr. Rice (thoracic surgeon) was glad to see him recovering well from the surgery. He will follow up in 6 months with a CT scan. He discussed the pathology report with us. The one lymph node involved was located next to the primary tumor. The other lymph nodes in the surrounding area were all clear.
Dale will meet with Dr. Kupferman (ENT) at MD Anderson on Feb. 21 to discuss the nerve damage to Dale's vocal cords.
As for now, eating and regaining strength are Dale's primary jobs!
Dr. Rice (thoracic surgeon) was glad to see him recovering well from the surgery. He will follow up in 6 months with a CT scan. He discussed the pathology report with us. The one lymph node involved was located next to the primary tumor. The other lymph nodes in the surrounding area were all clear.
Dale will meet with Dr. Kupferman (ENT) at MD Anderson on Feb. 21 to discuss the nerve damage to Dale's vocal cords.
As for now, eating and regaining strength are Dale's primary jobs!
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Jackie's Birthday!
I'm back home after a glorious week on the seas!
Happy to report that Dale has actually maintained his weight for 2 days! YIPPEE! Marcy checked in with Dale's surgeon this past week and they were not alarmed at the weight loss. Given that Dale's appetite is off, they would expect him to lose weight. Surgeon's staff was thrilled that Dale's small bowel obstruction didn't require surgery to correct.
Dale is working with a physcial therapist at home to rebuild his strength. Dale reports that he's actually tasting food again and thinks he's finally on the rebound! Good thing for him, he only has a month to get in "CRUISING SHAPE!"
Dale has a full day of appointments at MD Anderson on Wednesday. They will drive to Pearland on Tuesday and stay at the Rotary House because the first appointment on Wednesday is at 8am and the last appointment is at 2:30pm. LONG DAY!
Jackie is celebrating her 75th birthday! Diamond Lady!
Fingers, toes, etc - - - - crossed for a great doctor's appointment on Wednesday!
Happy to report that Dale has actually maintained his weight for 2 days! YIPPEE! Marcy checked in with Dale's surgeon this past week and they were not alarmed at the weight loss. Given that Dale's appetite is off, they would expect him to lose weight. Surgeon's staff was thrilled that Dale's small bowel obstruction didn't require surgery to correct.
Dale is working with a physcial therapist at home to rebuild his strength. Dale reports that he's actually tasting food again and thinks he's finally on the rebound! Good thing for him, he only has a month to get in "CRUISING SHAPE!"
Dale has a full day of appointments at MD Anderson on Wednesday. They will drive to Pearland on Tuesday and stay at the Rotary House because the first appointment on Wednesday is at 8am and the last appointment is at 2:30pm. LONG DAY!
Jackie is celebrating her 75th birthday! Diamond Lady!
Fingers, toes, etc - - - - crossed for a great doctor's appointment on Wednesday!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Quick Update
Shelley here. Mom is still enjoying her cruise. I'm happy to report that they are having a wonderful and relaxing time. While she's been soaking up the rays, I've made a few calls south to get the latest report on PaPa's progress.
Dale had a physical therapist visit him several times this week. The therapist is working with Dale to rebuild his strength. Jackie reports that while Dale's endurance is still a bit low, he is making an effort to really do the recommended exercises. Jackie also reports that they are walking a little bit further every day. While recovery is a slow process, spirits seems high. Yahoo! The Stovers will head to Houston on Tuesday for their Wednesday appointments at MD Anderson. Continue to keep Dale in your thoughts and prayers!
Dale had a physical therapist visit him several times this week. The therapist is working with Dale to rebuild his strength. Jackie reports that while Dale's endurance is still a bit low, he is making an effort to really do the recommended exercises. Jackie also reports that they are walking a little bit further every day. While recovery is a slow process, spirits seems high. Yahoo! The Stovers will head to Houston on Tuesday for their Wednesday appointments at MD Anderson. Continue to keep Dale in your thoughts and prayers!
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Missy's Visiting
Missy arrived Friday at the Victoria Regional Airport!
Dale is struggling to eat, but has added Ensure (meal replacements) to his meager intake. Dale reports that nothing tastes good and he gets full very fast when he nibbles. He's still very weak but remains positive about recovering from this latest setback.
Dennis and I are sailing away (again!) for my 48th birthday. We'll be gone 7 days...so reports if any will have to come from Missy.
Keep the prayers going Dale's way....he's got a ways to go to get into "cruising" condition and his boat sails Mar. 16th!
Dale is struggling to eat, but has added Ensure (meal replacements) to his meager intake. Dale reports that nothing tastes good and he gets full very fast when he nibbles. He's still very weak but remains positive about recovering from this latest setback.
Dennis and I are sailing away (again!) for my 48th birthday. We'll be gone 7 days...so reports if any will have to come from Missy.
Keep the prayers going Dale's way....he's got a ways to go to get into "cruising" condition and his boat sails Mar. 16th!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Checkup report from Dr. Henry
Dale went to see Dr. Henry today. Dr. Henry explained that Dale's recovery from this latest hospital stay will take several weeks. Dale had bloodwork done and has lost quite a bit of weight. He's down 14 pounds from last month. Dale isn't on any specific diet, he can eat whatever he tolerates. Dale's taste buds are still sleeping and so far Jackie hasn't been able to figure out anything that Dale likes.
BIL Bill will head home to Lake Charles tomorrow. He's been a great help with errands and household tasks. Sure am glad he was able to come over and spend a few days!
Melissa will be heading to Victoria on Friday for a long-weekend visit! YEAH! Lauren and Bill (Dale's granddaughter and her husband) will be in from Salt Lake City, too!
BIL Bill will head home to Lake Charles tomorrow. He's been a great help with errands and household tasks. Sure am glad he was able to come over and spend a few days!
Melissa will be heading to Victoria on Friday for a long-weekend visit! YEAH! Lauren and Bill (Dale's granddaughter and her husband) will be in from Salt Lake City, too!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Tuesday
Dale is at home today and trying his best to get his digestive system back to normal. He is struggling to find something that actually tastes great and doesn't tax his stomach to digest. So far yogurt is getting the nod along with fruit juices.
He has an appointment with his primary care doctor Wednesday morning at 8:45. BIL Bill is still there assisting!
Home health care came by today and suggested adding "Ensure" or "Boost" to his diet. He has good bowel sounds and still having activity!
Everyone keep their fingers crossed that Dale keeps improving!
He has an appointment with his primary care doctor Wednesday morning at 8:45. BIL Bill is still there assisting!
Home health care came by today and suggested adding "Ensure" or "Boost" to his diet. He has good bowel sounds and still having activity!
Everyone keep their fingers crossed that Dale keeps improving!
Monday, January 28, 2008
Real Food
Latest update: HE'S COMING HOME TODAY!!!!
I spend most of Sunday with Dale at the hospital and things are certainly better! Dale has had his IV fluids removed and is now on a regular diet. He's starting out slow on the real food, but tolerating it well.
His throat is still pretty sensitive when he drinks any liquid and his taste buds are apparently asleep!
Jackie's brother, Bill arrived around 4pm and he will stay with them for a few days to help out. I can not thank him enough for dropping everything and coming to my rescue.
I am back in Pearland and hoping that Dale continues to recover. Dr. Henry (Dale's primary doctor) should be in this afternoon and hopefully making plans for Dale to be discharged! Dale said he would have Dr. Henry call me when he made rounds, I have a few questions about changes made to Dale's medications.
Oh, and apparently the voting results show St. Thomas as the port-of-call to have Dale's "name" on it!
Sunday, January 27, 2008
What a Birthday Gift!
I'm still at Jackie and Dale's house, but Dale just called to wish me a Happy 48th Birthday. My report from Mom (at hospital) is that Dale is getting so much stronger that Dr. Sandigo (Dr. Henry's substitute) thinks Dale may be able to come home in the next day or two.
The IV fluids will be decreased as Dale takes more liquid meals. His daily chest xrays will continue.
They have put Dale on oxygen assist (not sure what that's all about...I'll investigate as soon as I get up there).
Jackie's brother, Bill is coming from Lake Charles to help out! I'm so relieved to hear that - because I really need to get back to work for a few days and take care of things.
I'll update later today - but for right now, I'm thrilled with the report!
The IV fluids will be decreased as Dale takes more liquid meals. His daily chest xrays will continue.
They have put Dale on oxygen assist (not sure what that's all about...I'll investigate as soon as I get up there).
Jackie's brother, Bill is coming from Lake Charles to help out! I'm so relieved to hear that - because I really need to get back to work for a few days and take care of things.
I'll update later today - but for right now, I'm thrilled with the report!
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Looking better!
Dale had his NG tube removed today. He's had one bout of nausea since the removal, but his lower GI track is working - so we are optimistic.
His xray today looked better than the day before. He's allowed clear liquids. He still struggles with a very sore throat, left over from the NG tube.
We're all keeping our fingers crossed that his lower GI track continues working and he gets out of the hospital soon. None of the doctors will speculate when that will be...
His xray today looked better than the day before. He's allowed clear liquids. He still struggles with a very sore throat, left over from the NG tube.
We're all keeping our fingers crossed that his lower GI track continues working and he gets out of the hospital soon. None of the doctors will speculate when that will be...
Friday, January 25, 2008
Friday
Things are looking a bit better today. Dale is having more bowel activity and the NG tube is doing it's job. The xrays are minimally better, so we're happy to see some progress.
Dale is in better spirits. Mostly because, I think, he's feeling better.
We're looking through old photo albums and reminiscing to pass the hours!
Dale is in better spirits. Mostly because, I think, he's feeling better.
We're looking through old photo albums and reminiscing to pass the hours!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
The next procedure
Dale had a visit with Dr. Rohas from the Victoria Surgery Associates today. The decision today was to insert an NG tube into his stomach.
Dale will use this method to hopefully clear the obstruction.
Looks like he'll be in the hospital for a while. Please pray the obstruction clears!
Dale will use this method to hopefully clear the obstruction.
Looks like he'll be in the hospital for a while. Please pray the obstruction clears!
Thursday am
Dale is back to battling nausea! A step backwards I'm afraid.
More later after we talk to doctor!
More later after we talk to doctor!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Wednesday night
Dale is feeling less pain in his belly. Still sleeping all the time?!
This morning's xrays were not very pretty. There is concern about lots of gas trapped in the small intestine. Surgeons are hoping that this will correct itself.
Still nothing by mouth. Dale's getting some medications to help with the post operative depression. Hoping to see some improvement soon!
Visits by minister today and a big bouquet of Star Gazer's lily are filling the room with some cheer!
This morning's xrays were not very pretty. There is concern about lots of gas trapped in the small intestine. Surgeons are hoping that this will correct itself.
Still nothing by mouth. Dale's getting some medications to help with the post operative depression. Hoping to see some improvement soon!
Visits by minister today and a big bouquet of Star Gazer's lily are filling the room with some cheer!
Wednesday update (morning)
Dr. Henry thinks Dale will be in the hospital "for a while". He does not think surgery will be tolerated, so he's hoping that medication and movement can remove this small bowel obstruction.
Dale's respiratory therapist thinks his sleep apnea is really affecting his sleep at night and further causing him to drop off to sleep "at the drop of a hat" during the day. We'll address this again on another day, for now
we're focused on the small bowel obstruction.
I will call MD Anderson with a new update of Small Bowel Obstruction for Dr. Rice.
(I'm home for a quick lunch and then back to the hospital)
Dale's respiratory therapist thinks his sleep apnea is really affecting his sleep at night and further causing him to drop off to sleep "at the drop of a hat" during the day. We'll address this again on another day, for now
we're focused on the small bowel obstruction.
I will call MD Anderson with a new update of Small Bowel Obstruction for Dr. Rice.
(I'm home for a quick lunch and then back to the hospital)
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Small bowel obstruction
Dale's latest diagnosis came today after a second CT scan. Dr. William Wagner (general surgeon) came by this evening to exam Dale. He is hoping that treatments in the hospital over the next 48 hours can clear this obstruction, as Dale is not a "Good" candidate for surgery at this point.
GULP!
Dale had lots of lower digestive tract treatments/medications this afternoon and reports some level of relief from the abdominal pain.
These will continue along with as many walks as he can handle.
Dale is now restricted from taking anything by mouth until this obstruction is resolved. UGH!
Jackie and I will rest this evening and head back to the hospital for another day tomorrow!
CRAPPOLA!
GULP!
Dale had lots of lower digestive tract treatments/medications this afternoon and reports some level of relief from the abdominal pain.
These will continue along with as many walks as he can handle.
Dale is now restricted from taking anything by mouth until this obstruction is resolved. UGH!
Jackie and I will rest this evening and head back to the hospital for another day tomorrow!
CRAPPOLA!
Tuesday update
Dale is having abdominal pain and a tender belly. He's not had any nausea. He had an additional CT scan today of his belly and lots of assistance getting his lower GI track functioning. He really is "down in the dumps". Can't find anything to talk about or do that puts a smile on his face.
Anybody got some suggestions? Any fixes for what appears to be a post operative depression?
Dale's heartrate is being monitored and he continues with IV fluids, pain medication, nausea medication and antibiotics. His white blood cell count has come down more but is still slightly elevated.
I've cancelled Dale's appointments at MD Anderson tomorrow. Dr. Rice knows about Dale's current setback.
Jackie and I are at home for a few minutes break and then we'll head back up to the hospital for a few hours this evening.
Dale's voice appears to be recovering slightly from the strain of his surgery, but he's not much in the mood for conversation.
Anybody got some suggestions? Any fixes for what appears to be a post operative depression?
Dale's heartrate is being monitored and he continues with IV fluids, pain medication, nausea medication and antibiotics. His white blood cell count has come down more but is still slightly elevated.
I've cancelled Dale's appointments at MD Anderson tomorrow. Dr. Rice knows about Dale's current setback.
Jackie and I are at home for a few minutes break and then we'll head back up to the hospital for a few hours this evening.
Dale's voice appears to be recovering slightly from the strain of his surgery, but he's not much in the mood for conversation.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Afternoon update
Dale is holding down small amounts of ice chips. Still no diagnosis. IV fluids and anti nausea medications.
UPDATE: Dr. Henry thinks Dale picked up a bug. No signs of obstruction or infection anywhere. Still not eating anything, maybe he will feel like eating tomorrow.
Jackie and I are at home now (10pm) - we'll head back in the morning.
UPDATE: Dr. Henry thinks Dale picked up a bug. No signs of obstruction or infection anywhere. Still not eating anything, maybe he will feel like eating tomorrow.
Jackie and I are at home now (10pm) - we'll head back in the morning.
Slight bump in the road to recovery
Dale has been troubled with lotsa nausea today. After a call to his primary care, he's being seen at the ER at Detar Hospital in Victoria. (6pm) Tests are being ran. He's not able to keep anything down.
Update at midnight!
Dale has been admitted to Detar Navarro (Room 326). Testing continues to figure out what is the cause of the nausea.
I'll be heading to Victoria in the morning....
Update at midnight!
Dale has been admitted to Detar Navarro (Room 326). Testing continues to figure out what is the cause of the nausea.
I'll be heading to Victoria in the morning....
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Pathology Update
Sharon Myers, (PA for Dr. Rice) called today with a more indepth pathology report. Dale's tumor measured 3.5 cm and was a squamous cell carcinoma. The lymph node removed scored as a 2. (T2N1M1 or Stage 2B) Recommended meeting with the Thoracic Oncologist (Dr. Tsao on Feb. 13th). Margins on primary tumor were "close". Not sure exactly what that means, will ask more questions next week at Dale's appointment.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Day 3 - Now in Victoria
Marcy took Jackie and Dale to see Dr. Henry today. Dale's bloodwork remains normal, so they have reintroduced the Lasiks that was removed temporarily. Lungs sound good, incision is doing well and Dale is a little stronger each day.
Mom's cold is getting better. Now if the Post Office could just find all the mail they've held while they were in Houston for the surgery! :(
Dale will return to MD Anderson on Jan. 23 to see the surgeon for a checkup. Unless something unusual happens between now and then...I'll update after that appointment.
Mom's cold is getting better. Now if the Post Office could just find all the mail they've held while they were in Houston for the surgery! :(
Dale will return to MD Anderson on Jan. 23 to see the surgeon for a checkup. Unless something unusual happens between now and then...I'll update after that appointment.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Day 2 at Home
Dale is getting stronger as the hours pass. He's up most of the day, with only a couple of catnaps in the recliner. His appetite is better, thanks to the scrumptous meals Marcy has been preparing!
Dale, Jackie and Marcy headed to Victoria this morning about 9:30am. I know that Dale is anxious to get home! He'll have another round of bloodwork to check his electrolytes and also a quick check of vitals to make sure all is well.
He still can't talk well, so emails to him are the best method of communicating. His email address is dalestover@sbcglobal.net and I'm sure he'll be checking it later on today!
Thanks for everyone for their cards, flowers, calls and prayers. Dale has so many things to be thankful for and you are one of them!
Dale, Jackie and Marcy headed to Victoria this morning about 9:30am. I know that Dale is anxious to get home! He'll have another round of bloodwork to check his electrolytes and also a quick check of vitals to make sure all is well.
He still can't talk well, so emails to him are the best method of communicating. His email address is dalestover@sbcglobal.net and I'm sure he'll be checking it later on today!
Thanks for everyone for their cards, flowers, calls and prayers. Dale has so many things to be thankful for and you are one of them!
Sunday, January 6, 2008
At Home Day 1
Dale slept some in the recliner and some in bed last night. He'll have to re-learn sleeping in a flat bed after so many nights in a hospital bed. He's up and around quite a bit, very little napping and he's coughing more. That's all good!
We've had some medication changes due to possible interactions with other meds, but Walgreens has been very careful about "flagging" those meds that don't work well with others.
Dale will have some additional bloodwork tomorrow in Victoria at his primary doctor's office. Marcy will stay in Victoria til Wednesday, then I'll take over through the weekend. If anybody is going to the San Antonio area from the Victoria area on Wednesday evening or Thursday morning, please let us know. Otherwise, Marcy may have to hitchhike to San Antonio! HAHA!
The Houston Marathon is next Sunday and Dennis is registered to run it again, for the 3rd time. So I'll be back in Houston for that!
Dale's body has really worked hard this week to recover from the surgery. While he hasn't always been the easiest patient to help - he has made steady progress. His voice remains hoarse and volume is low. This is frustrating for all of us, because we ask him to repeat himself alot and then he gets winded talking so much. I know - my dad getting winded talking sounds foreign to those of you who know him! But it happens! He also has his own idea of the amount breathing exercises he needs to do - and that's pretty much 1/10th of what the doctor's want!
Jackie's still battling a cough but seems to be getting better. We'll get her in to see Dr. Henry on Tuesday or Wednesday and make sure she's not getting something worse!
Plan remain for Jackie, Dale and Marcy to head to Victoria tomorrow. Fingers crossed!
We've had some medication changes due to possible interactions with other meds, but Walgreens has been very careful about "flagging" those meds that don't work well with others.
Dale will have some additional bloodwork tomorrow in Victoria at his primary doctor's office. Marcy will stay in Victoria til Wednesday, then I'll take over through the weekend. If anybody is going to the San Antonio area from the Victoria area on Wednesday evening or Thursday morning, please let us know. Otherwise, Marcy may have to hitchhike to San Antonio! HAHA!
The Houston Marathon is next Sunday and Dennis is registered to run it again, for the 3rd time. So I'll be back in Houston for that!
Dale's body has really worked hard this week to recover from the surgery. While he hasn't always been the easiest patient to help - he has made steady progress. His voice remains hoarse and volume is low. This is frustrating for all of us, because we ask him to repeat himself alot and then he gets winded talking so much. I know - my dad getting winded talking sounds foreign to those of you who know him! But it happens! He also has his own idea of the amount breathing exercises he needs to do - and that's pretty much 1/10th of what the doctor's want!
Jackie's still battling a cough but seems to be getting better. We'll get her in to see Dr. Henry on Tuesday or Wednesday and make sure she's not getting something worse!
Plan remain for Jackie, Dale and Marcy to head to Victoria tomorrow. Fingers crossed!
Saturday, January 5, 2008
At Home in Pearland
Dale arrived home today about noon. He's very happy to be in familiar surroundings.
He will go to see his primary care physician, Dr. Henry sometime early next week, for some additional bloodwork. His creatinine level was on the high end of normal this morning. Dale has a couple of followup appointments with Dr. Rice and Dr. Tsao later on this month and then again February. For now, Dale will stay on his normal medications + his new heart medications. His voice strength fluctuates quite a bit. Sometimes very weak and hoarse, other times robust! Walking is slow, but each day he gets a little more sturdy!
Jackie and Dale will stay here until Monday and then the plan is for Marcy to drive them to Victoria. Melissa flew back to Colorado Springs last night to tend to her family and get the kids back in the swing of school, dance, scouts, sewing, etc!
He will go to see his primary care physician, Dr. Henry sometime early next week, for some additional bloodwork. His creatinine level was on the high end of normal this morning. Dale has a couple of followup appointments with Dr. Rice and Dr. Tsao later on this month and then again February. For now, Dale will stay on his normal medications + his new heart medications. His voice strength fluctuates quite a bit. Sometimes very weak and hoarse, other times robust! Walking is slow, but each day he gets a little more sturdy!
Jackie and Dale will stay here until Monday and then the plan is for Marcy to drive them to Victoria. Melissa flew back to Colorado Springs last night to tend to her family and get the kids back in the swing of school, dance, scouts, sewing, etc!
Friday, January 4, 2008
Running for a Reason
Please join us in supporting the efforts of the American Cancer Society or the American Lung Association - and help Dennis "Run for a Reason".
http://www.active.com/donate/houstonmarathon08/DBoedek30
http://www.active.com/donate/houstonmarathon08/DBoedek30
YIPPEE!!!
What a difference a day makes!
He's coming home tomorrow!!!!
Dale's heart converted to a normal rhythm last night and the last IV meds have been switched to oral meds!
He's made a remarkable recovery from 48 hours ago and is too healthy to qualify for the rehab floor!
He'll stay in Pearland for a few days to make sure all is well - then head home to Victoria!
WHEW! What a ride that was!
He's coming home tomorrow!!!!
Dale's heart converted to a normal rhythm last night and the last IV meds have been switched to oral meds!
He's made a remarkable recovery from 48 hours ago and is too healthy to qualify for the rehab floor!
He'll stay in Pearland for a few days to make sure all is well - then head home to Victoria!
WHEW! What a ride that was!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Back on Terra Firma
The Queen is home from the high seas! (18' swells to be exact)
Dale is walking more each day and sitting in a chair for the better part of the day. Today we expect all medications to become oral instead of IV. Dale's chest tubes have been removed.
The pathology report showed all but one of the removed lymph gland to be cancer-free. The one pesky gland that did test positive will change Dale's staging from a 1B to a 2B. No further treatment is recommended even though cancer was found in one lymph gland.
Dale has been in an abnormal heart rhythm since Saturday. This is not a new occurrence for Dale. He battled this in February when he had the pnuemonia. They are giving lots of cardiac medications. CT scans have all been negative for pulmonary embolisms and cardiac issues. All chest xrays have been negative, too.
Dale may move to the rehab floor tomorrow. Currently, the plan is to stay in rehab for one week. Visitors are welcome during that time. He needs to improve his stamina during his walks. He continues breathing treatments and occasionally coughs.
Dale's voice remains strained. Volume being the main deficit. His appetite isn't great, we're trying to figure out what might strike his fancy! Suggestions are appreciated.
Jackie is battling a nasty cold, so she has been staying away or using a mask when she visits. Marcy, Missy and Jackie are all staying at my house now and taking turns going to visit during the day.
Dale is walking more each day and sitting in a chair for the better part of the day. Today we expect all medications to become oral instead of IV. Dale's chest tubes have been removed.
The pathology report showed all but one of the removed lymph gland to be cancer-free. The one pesky gland that did test positive will change Dale's staging from a 1B to a 2B. No further treatment is recommended even though cancer was found in one lymph gland.
Dale has been in an abnormal heart rhythm since Saturday. This is not a new occurrence for Dale. He battled this in February when he had the pnuemonia. They are giving lots of cardiac medications. CT scans have all been negative for pulmonary embolisms and cardiac issues. All chest xrays have been negative, too.
Dale may move to the rehab floor tomorrow. Currently, the plan is to stay in rehab for one week. Visitors are welcome during that time. He needs to improve his stamina during his walks. He continues breathing treatments and occasionally coughs.
Dale's voice remains strained. Volume being the main deficit. His appetite isn't great, we're trying to figure out what might strike his fancy! Suggestions are appreciated.
Jackie is battling a nasty cold, so she has been staying away or using a mask when she visits. Marcy, Missy and Jackie are all staying at my house now and taking turns going to visit during the day.
Day 3 and 4
Substitute blog-writer, Marcy here, with news of Day 3 and Day 4.
The five of us, mom-Jackie, my sister Melissa and her two daughters, Elise and Julia and I are maintaining residence at The Rotary House Hotel near MD Anderson. We are Dale's fearless and able servants during Queen Phyllis' brief soirée on the high seas. I'm happy to report that she did NOT run out of the hospital with her hair on fire after her fun nights "on call" but that she is actually enjoying (we hope) a marvelous time on her long-awaited vacation cruise. Through the miracle of modern communication, she IS calling in often to check on Dad's progress.
Day three was challenging, FATIGUE being Dale's word of the day. The results of a Videostroboscopy of the Larynx, performed in Dale's hospital room, showed that his vocal chords were not closing as completely as they should under normal circumstances (the vocal chord nerve was stretched during surgery). The doctors were encouraged though, that the chords were functioning well enough that aspiration of food and/or drink into the lungs does not seem to be a concern. For now, there is a pronounced hoarseness in Dale's voice along with a marked decrease in volume. Those issues combined make communicating difficult for him but we are improvising with elementary sign language and one word requests! We expect that his voice will return to full strength as he heals.
Today (Sunday) Dale had a chest x-ray; his doctors were very pleased with the images they saw. The epidural has been problematic so that was removed this afternoon. Oral pain meds seem to be doing the job nicely. Recent problems with nausea and itching remain under control. Dale walked twice today, standing straighter and taller each time. He's eating small meals and continues with respiratory therapy and breathing exercises hour by hour. Obviously, there will be up and down days to come...coughing is painful, tubes are a nuisance, healing takes time, hospitals are noisy...and we remind ourselves we have many reasons to rejoice.
As Phyllis mentioned earlier, email messages--via the MD Anderson website--are delivered twice daily and really brighten Dale's day! The page takes a bit of searching, so if you'd like to send a cheery message, here's a handy link: https://www2.mdanderson.org/sapp/contact/message.cfm It appears that you only need to use dad's "legal name" Richard Stover, the birth date and patient ID are not required. We are especially grateful for this method of communication considering Dale's temporary vocal chord issues.
Have a very Happy New Year Y'all!
~Marcy
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