Beautiful Beautiful Day

With a clear blue sky and a cool Fall day in South Texas, 100+ friends and family members gathered to plant two large red oak trees. Trees that symbolized independence, protection, bravery, strength, endurance and continuity. Qualities and traits that define Dale's life. Soil from around the USA brought by guests was lovingly added to the planting sites. Blessings were given and then it was done.

Trees planted in honor of the memory of Dale Stover.

PS. And Dad, it wasn't sad or tearful! Just like you wanted it. :)

The Red Oaks are Here!

Mom shows off the Red Oak trees that will be planted on Sunday at Dale's Celebration!
Can't wait to see everyone this weekend and celebrate my Dad.

Dale's Final Resting Place

In accordance with Dale's wishes and with the final approval of Royal Caribbean cruise lines, Dale's remains will be "Buried at Sea" at a ceremony held during the Jan. 24, 2010 sailing of the Voyager of the Seas out of Galveston, TX.

This cruise had been planned month's ago to celebrate my 50th birthday. We will add this ceremony to our itinerary.

Dale is surely smiling today....his ultimate wish...fulfilled!

Those interested in joining us, should contact our Travel Agent and friend, Kay Sanderford at kay.sanderford@americasvacationcenter.com or 800-374-8108.

Please join Dale Stover’s family as they honor
his memory and celebrate his life at a
Tree Planting Ceremony
November 1, 2009 at 4:00 pm.
Services held on the grounds of the historic
Hiller House
3003 N. Vine
Victoria, Texas 77901

You are invited to participate in the service. Please bring a small
packet of soil from your own garden to help nourish Dale’s trees.
Trees will be tended by the Keep Victoria Beautiful project.

Reception to follow:
First United Methodist Church
407 N. Bridge Street
Victoria, Texas 77901

Richard Dale Stover, 80, of Victoria, passed away on Oct. 7, 2009. He was born Sept. 1, 1929 in Chickasha, Okla. to the late Clara and Asa Cox. He was a member of FUMC Victoria. He was a member of Point Comfort UMC for 44 years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, served on the Point Comfort City Council for many years, and often assisted Keep Point Comfort Beautiful. He served as a master sergeant in the Korean War from 1951-1953, where he received a Bronze Star. He worked at Alcoa for 37 years. Dale's hobbies included fishing, gardening, cruising the Caribbean, and attending family reunions. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Dale is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jacqulyn Stover; daughter, Marzetta Gaskamp and her husband Ted of Phoenix, Phyllis Boedeker and her husband Dennis of Pearland, Melissa Gaubatz and her husband Maurice of Colorado Springs; grandchildren, Michael Gaskamp and his wife Rachel, Lauren Wallberg and her husband Bill, Shelley Whistler and her husband Stephen, Emily Boedeker, Naish Gaubatz, Elise Gaubatz, and Julia Gaubatz; great-grandson, James Richard Gaskamp; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings Willard Stover, Pauline Cleveland, Charlene Robertson, Minnie Loftin, and Jackie Malone.

The celebration of Dale's life will take place on Nov. 1, 2009. The celebration and tree planting will be held in the gardens of Keep Victoria Beautiful's Hiller House. (3003 N. Vine, Victoria, TX) . Times TBA.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to The Stover Memorial @ Keep Victoria Beautiful, 3003 N. Vine, Victoria, Texas 77901, or the charity of choice.

Celebration of Life

The Celebration of Dale's Life will be held on Nov. 1, 2009 on the grounds of the Hiller House (3003 N. Vine, Victoria, TX). http://www.keepvictoriabeautiful.com/

Please check back for more details as they are made.

Oct. 7, 2009

This evening at 10:05, Dale peacefully passed away. While we all come to terms with this sad event, we are grateful that his suffering is over and know that God has healed him.

Arrangements for the party that will celebrate Dale's life are pending.

3:00 pm Update on 7 October 2009

Dale's vitals:  9:00 am,   Heart rate: 90 -100    BP  119/69      Blood O2  89 (with oxygen in the nose)

 

At 12 noon,  Heart rate:  115     BP   150/75       Blood O2  91  using a BiPap machine

 

At 3:00 pm,  Heart rate:  129     BP  138/74       Blood O2   88  still using BiPpap machine.

 

Today, Dale's blood oxygen levels were the item that required the most attention.  Following the morning visit, the BiPAP machine was used to try to raise the O2 levels -  this is a breathing apparatus that covers the mouth and nose and pumps air / O2 into the lungs although Dale still has to breathe in and out with a bit of effort.

 

The pulmonary doctor, Dr. Adams, saw Dale a little after 12:30 (the BiPap was put in place around 11:00 am) and called Jackie and Melissa with his recommendations going forward.  He recommended taking off the BiPAP and installing an intubation tube in order to relieve Dale of the struggle his heart seems to be having breathing with the BiPap machine.  The heart and blood pressure reading both went up after starting the BiPap, the thought is to take away the labor of the breathing and let his body try to heal from the multiple problems:  possible pneumonia, pulmonary edema, kidney response to dehydration.  Dr. Adams did state that the pain medicine Dale has been taking can cause some respiratory depression; however, the CO2 levels in Dale's blood were around 30 (some unit) and a opiod drug overdose blood level would be in the 60 - 90 (some unit) range, so Dr. Adams does not believe the pain drugs are at too high a level for Dale. 

 

Even though the pain meds are not too high, at this point, Dale is still sleeping a lot and not able to speak with the BiPap covering his mouth.

 

This evening (after getting agreement of Jackie and all daughters), Dr. Adams is going to insert the intubation tube and we will monitor Dale for the next 2 days to see if there is some improvement in his other body issues.  Prayers are always welcome from all.  We are trying to think of ways Dale can communicate during this, if anyone has ideas, we welcome them.

 

 

 

 

   

 

8:00 pm Visit Update 6 October 2009

Dale's Heart rate is 93 - 99, BP is 110/68

Dale is sleeping alot still.  There is a bit of a rattle in his chest.  He is having pain in the abdomen which is being treated with dilauted (sp) - doses at noon and at 6 pm.

A KUB scan was performed in the afternoon and a sonagram on the abdomen and finally a CT scan.  The outcome of the tests was the identification of air in the large intestine (horizontal section) and some in the small intestine.  At this time, Dr. Henry has not ordered an NG tube, the nurse says the air is too far down for the tube to help.

Dale is still on the cardizem drip, glucose and NaCl.

The kidney's are not as suspect at this time.  The abdomen will be evaluated in the morning by Dr. Henry.

The nurse is trying to give as little as necessary of the dilauted as it can retard the digestive tract.

Update from Noon Visit 6 October 2009

Melissa and Jackie spoke with Dr. Henry at the noon visit on Tuesday.   Dr. Henry is still treating Dale with antibiotics for infection of either the lung or the kidneys.  The diagnosis is still not certain.  Dale's heartrate was around 100 - 105 during the visit, it seems that the metropolol is helping a bit.   Dr. Henry stated that Dale had complained of a little pain when Dr. Henry arrived (11:50 am) and so had administered a dose of delotted (sp) for the pain.  We are thinking the pain is from an injection he had in his upper stomach area previsouly.  Dale was still sleeping mostly during the visit (probably due to the pain medicine) but did listen to the tale Melissa related to seeing Bill drive the big moving truck pulling the car with the little cats in it!  

 

Dr. Henry had spoken to Dr. Karp (MD Anderson clinical trial doctor) this morning, but at the time Dr. Henry talked to Dr. Karp, Dr. Henry was unaware of the heart issues that Dale is having (atrial fib) due to Dr. Henry's pager problems.  Dr. Henry will be calling Dr. Karp this afternoon/evening to let him know of the heart situation.

 

Another blood test will be taken tonight to monitor the kidney function, so maybe there will be more certainty in what to treat.   There is still the stated case of possible pneumonia or kidney infection.

 

Dr. Henry said that since Dale's heart was not behaving normally and he thinks there is some liquid in the lungs from the previous hydration push, he could not give a higher dose of liquids at this time.  (A higher dose of liquids may help the kidneys better).  So we will take this slowly and pray the kidneys get repaired, if that is the problem.

 

 

C1D13

9am: Dale has taken a step backwards overnight. His lungs continue to show a growing pnuemonia threat. His kidney labs are puzzling the doctors. Creatinine and BUN are way out of whack. Dale's heart has begun an arrythmia (Atrial Fib). He's sleeping fitfully and it's very hard to understand anything he says. Lots of heart medications, antibiotics and fluids continue. He will remain in ICU for a while. Melissa (Colorado sister) is here now and I'll be headed back to Pearland, so she will be providing the updates until Saturday.

More updates

9pm: Dale's potassium levels remains high. He is getting D10 (dextrose) and subcutaneous insulin every two hours to help lower his potassium. He has developed a bit of a rattle in his chest, so fluids have been discontinued and Lasix has been given to help relief some of the "over hydration" and hopefully lower his potassium more. He's still a bit disoriented, but his vitals remain good. He will be given another anxiety drug this evening at bedtime.

5pm: Dr. Karp (chair study at MD Anderson) called to discuss the difficulties Dale was having. He will consult with Dale's primary doctor here at Citizens.

3pm: Dale's blood pressure is back to normal. He's had 500 cc of Levaquin (antibiotic). They are really pushing liquids. Xanax for anxiety seems to be helping. Clear liquids by mouth. Seems a bit more lucide this trip.

1pm: Dr. Henry thinks Dale is fighting an infection either in his lung or kidneys. Chest Xrays this morning look like one of his lungs may be starting to infect. Urine had some bacteria in it also. Blood presssures are slowly creeping back up. Other labwork looks normal. Ativan for anxiousness. Antibiotics to cure whatever is infected. Probably in ICU until tomorrow, then moved to a regular room. We will be able to see him again at 3pm. I've spoken with the folks at MD Anderson several times today. They are sending their most recent lab results to Citizen's for comparison.

9am:Dale is having renal issues. They are pushing fluids. Potassium is elevated. Blood pressure is very, very low. He is dazed and confused. Waiting for brain MRI report. Urine output is being monitored. Not much fight in Dale right now.

Oh No

Jackie called 20 minutes ago...3:45am.

Dale has taken a turn for the worse. He doesn't know who she is, can't swallow liquids, hasn't urinated in hours and she's scared. She's calling 911 and we're packing up our stuff and headed to Victoria.

6am update: Dale has been moved to 2nd floor ICU at Citizen's Hospital. He's had bloodwork, Chest Xray and a brain MRI. Bloodwork shows some renal issues. Jackie is waiting to consult with Dr. Henry as soon as he arrives. We're about an hour away from Victoria...

C1D11

Talked to Jackie last night and this morning. Dale is really sleeping alot. Spending most of his day in bed and dragging himself out for a few bites of food. Either a week spent hurting or just the chemo has really worn him out. He's using a walker to get around with because he's pretty weak. He'll end his script of Oxycontin today, so hopefully he'll be more alert and active tomorrow.

He's not in any pain and no nausea. Just exhausted!

C1D10

Just got off the phone with Jackie. Dale is still doing well without pain. Using Compazine now instead of Zofran for nausea. Dale is able to take short walks outside. He's pretty fatigued or either the Xycontin is making him sleepy.

Hopefully, the confidence gained from the new pain medication regime will encourage Dale enough to continue with more treatments.

C1D9

Oh what a difference a day makes!

Let us all breath a sigh of relief that pain has been alleviated. Dale can feel the fatigue that chemotherapy brings, but resting now helps fix that. He's not had to take the morphine for break through pain and that is also good.

What we have learned this week

1. Do not leave the Houston area until after you are confident you can handle the side effects of Cycle 1.

2. Go to the ER at MD Anderson if you are in severe enough pain that Tylenol can't fix.

3. Eat small meals often to avoid nausea.

4. An electric blanket is very comforting for sore joints.

5. Werthers Original candies soothe a sore mouth.

6. Oral mouth sponges help alleviate the coated feeling in your mouth.

7. Try either Biotene mouthwash and baking soda mix, alternating for mouth pain.

8. Get a chart to keep track of new "as needed" medications.

9. Chapstick on the lips helps the sore mouth sensation.

10. Chicken and dumplings, macaroni and cheese, any non-spicy soup, watermelon, jello, milk shakes, and de-caf Iced tea are all good foods for a sore mouth.

11. Xyloxylin is helpful for a sore throat.

C1D8

Rough night. Accept defeat and head to MD Anderson ER as soon as Dale wakes up this morning.

I'll update more later!

Dale is getting a Fentanyl Lollipop to swab the inside of his cheeks with for pain. Fast acting. All blood work is done. Dr. Viets will give Ativan by IV next. Working on a plan to find a pain protocol that he can use at home. He's in Pod B Room 24. Only one person back there at a time. Mom and I are taking turns. Excellent care. Hope they can find a pain method that works at home and this doesn't turn into an admit.

10am: Dale is resting comfortable after an Xray and an Ativan injection. Pain level 2-3. Fingers crossed that his pain if finally under control!

11:30pm: Being discharged with an arsenal of pain medications!

2:30pm: My dear SIL went by and checked on the patient for me (while I was digging myself out of a week's missed work) and reports both the patient and his wife were sleeping soundly!!! Hurray...pain meds must be working!

6pm: Dale just left with Dennis to go grocery shopping! Apparently, the morning meds have "healed" him. Still praying this is long lasting! Dale's new medication regime is 2 Oxycontin - twice a day for 3 days, one 600mg Ibuprofen every 8 hours for 5 days and in case that isn't enough.....Morphine Sulfate every 4 hours for breakthrough pain!!!! EEEKK!! All of Dale's labwork today was fine.

C1D7

Day seven and Dale's side effects remain. Last pain report was an 8. Nothing has worked with any consistancy to help with the achy joints. Nausea is under control. Bottoms of feet and fingertips are problematic.

I'm heading back home today...hoping that Mom and Dad can continue the recovery solo. I feel pretty much helpless.

Noon update: Headed back to MD Anderson. They aren't happy with his progress....

5pm update: Dr. Karp (study chair) called at 1pm and wanted Dale to go to Ibuprofen before going to the ER. Dale has had some relief (pain level 8 to a 4) while we drove to Pearland. We're going to continue the Ibuprofen for the night and then go to MD Anderson tomorrow for weekly blood test. I pray this is the actual drug that stops the pain! Dr. Karp believes that Dale has had an inflammatory reaction to Taxol. Painful joints should have been relieved by day 5!

C1D6

Dale woke at 5am this morning. Joint pain and a bit of nausea, so he took Zofran and Oxycontin. A couple of crackers and hot tea and now he's curled up in his electric blanket in the recliner waiting for this to pass. Pain level 7. He will switch to Compazine for nausea if the Zofran doesn't alleviate the waves of nausea.

His mouth issues have really settled down, swallowing is still iffy though. He's able to get up and move about some, though he laughs and calls himself "Sanford" because his gait is very similar to the guy on "Sanford and Son" tv show. He's not been able to wear his dentures since Saturday and he is very self conscious of that.

Dale will have a glucose/blood test on Thursday here in Victoria.

I'm hoping that by 9am the Oxycontin will have worked it's magic like it did last night and he'll report a pain level of a 2! Fingers crossed!

9am: Pain level 5, nausea under control. A little breakfast in his stomach. Fatigue has reared it's ugly head. Dale's in bed now, resting! Research nurse at MD Anderson has called to check in this morning. She's called 3-4 times since Monday.

1pm: Pain level 4-1/2 after a two hour nap. Sitting outside trying a change of scenery. Taste seems to be improving. Nausea still under control. Rash behind both ears. Fingertips feel different. Normal swelling in ankles has been nonexistent since Saturday. Not taking Lasixs, but may need to get back on it - waiting for doctor decision.

6pm: After a very rough afternoon, 2 tylenols seems to have taken the edge off Dale's painful joints. His pain level is now a 3! Bottoms of his feet are tender. Jackie's working on Chicken and Dumplings! Hope he can get those down. He's not eaten much today.

C1D5

Chemo sucks!

Dale is really struggling with joint pain. Knees, elbows and ankles are sore and tender. He's trying Tylenol without much success. A headache is also zapping his once chipper attitude. Mouth and throat issue continue, but the overriding joint pain has moved that issue out of the limelight. I've called MD Anderson this morning, they suggest a trip to the local ER for the joint pain. Dale refuses to go - so we'll try to ride out this pain here at home.

I went to Walmart last night late and purchased an electric blanket. Dale wraps up in it like a burrito and the warmth offers some relief to the achy flu-like symptoms.

He's really working hard to get his 66 ozs. of fluids a day. Throat issues make swallowing problematic. He's trying to eat every 2-3 hours to avoid nausea. Hot foods don't work, salt doesn't have a taste and most everything he eats vaguely tastes like it should. He's using a baking soda rinse in his mouth now ever 2-3 hours. Daily temperature readings are holding normal.

Dr. Karp (chair study at MD Anderson) told Dale that he hoped chemo wouldn't knock his "hubcaps" off. Dale said last night, the "hubcaps" were wobbling. Pain rating last night was an 8. It's still an 8 this morning.

Praying Day 5 is the last bad day!

3pm update: Dale is just up from a nap and seems to be feeling a bit better. I'm headed to the pharmacy to pick up a new pain medicine.

11pm update: Not sure if it was the new script, Oxycontin. or just some time, but Dale's pain level is now a 2! Hopefully, he's turned the corner on achiness and tomorrow morning will be the start of getting back to normal!

C1D4

Day 4 and the cautious optimism continues!

Dale slept well last night. Used Biotene mouthrinse often to eleviate the dry/tender mouth issues. Werthers Original candies provide some relief. Taste is still a bit off, Dale is officially not a jalapeno eater for now. Watermelon is good, and if he soaks the Oreos in milk long enough - they are delicious! Had Breakfast Taco filling (sans tortilla) for breakfast. Going to try Macaroni and Cheese today.

No nausea, no fever, no fatigue, no aches! Geez! I feel like a vulture circling the house...waiting for something to go wrong. Dad is averaging 66 ozs. of fluids a day.

Attitude: Great, Activity level: 105%, Energy level: Normal

I have a call into Dr. Tsao to ask for permission to use the Benadryl/lidocaine/Maalox compound (prescribed during Proton Therapy) for the sore mouth and throat he's experiencing.

For those that know Dale, he's had one nap since Thursday! So fatigue is obviously not a problem.

4pm update: Dale has had a teensy bit of nausea this afternoon, cured by eating lunch. Thought is that he needs to eat a bit every 2-3 hours. Knees are a bit sore. Mouth and throat continue to be a nuisance. Still taking his steriods and Zofran. Chocolate shake was a winner. Macaroni and cheese for lunch and a chocolate meringue pie waiting for dessert later! YUMM!!

Oddly enough, the CT scan Dale took last week (9/17) -showed improvement in a few of his previously noted nodules (8/17)! His biggest nodule is just under 1cm! We are hopeful that CP-751781 can melt those small nodules!

Dale is a bit achy and a bit fatigued this evening. His mouth issues are pretty stabilized but he's feeling the affects of the chemo in his stomach now. His attitude is still good and we're all searching for ways to lessen the effects and provide comfort. He's been out in the yard some today, but mostly in the recliner watching Tiger win the FedEx Cup. All-in-all, Dale has really handled the past 4 days like a pro. Fears that we all had about side effects have been replaced with sighs of relief that things are going so well. Fingers crossed that tomorrow is a good day too!

C1D3 = Cycle 1 Day 3

Dale was up early today...awoke about 6:30am. He notes some sensation in his mouth, not easily defined. He's using a new toothpaste and mouth rinse (Biotene) as requested by his Research Nurse. Biotene makes his mouth feel better.

Face is a bit flushed.

Breakfast, biscuits and bacon. Some comments about the taste being lowered.

Comments about the sensation of his hands being shaky this morning.

Nothing above is a concern, just observations.

Attitude: terrific, Energy level: 110%, Activity level: above normal.

Dale is taking Dexamethasone (steroid, 2 pills a day/twice a day for 3 days) and Zofran (nausea, 1 pill/8 hours or as needed). He's taking the Zofran as a preventative to nausea, none noted so far.

Cycle 1 Day 2

OMG! After going to bed at 11pm last night, Dale is up at 6am! WHAT!

Apparently the steriods given yesterday by IV have created a 16 year old mentality! Dale feels rejuvenated and refreshed. I think his exact words this morning are "I could run a marathon!". Another favorite Daleism, "Nobody should feel this good with cancer".

So Day 2 has started off well! We will pack up and head to Victoria some time this morning.

I, on the other hand, am headed to the Vet's office. When we returned home last night, our dashchund was in distress. Not sure if we've broken a paw or what?

Cycle 1 Day 1

We arrived at MD Anderson at 7:45am. After some waiting, Dad was called back for his vitals (all good) and then escorted to Room 16 of the Clinical Research Translation center. The room is set up similar to a hospital ER exam room. We waited a few more minutes and around 9:15, Kendra (Dale's nurse) hooked Dale up to an IV. She brings in 8 or 9 bags of medications and hangs them on his "tree". Benadryl, Zofran, a steriod and another drug that eases digestive upset were given (each in 10 minute increments). Dale dined on a Prasek's Pig and a banana! Once those pre-meds were onboard, vitals were taken again and then Taxol was added. Taxol will drip for 3 hours. Kendra comes by every few minutes to see how things are going. It's 11am and he'll be on taxol til around 2pm.


1pm update: Ashley, Research Nurse, came by with a questionaire to complete and three prescriptions to take home. Zofran, a steroid and compazine - nausea meds for the next few days. Lunch is being served and Dale's reclined in the chair watching Tiger tee off! Pretty easy day so far. Have about 45 more minutes of Taxol, 1/2 hour of Carbo, then 1 hour of the "experimental" stuff, then 4 hours of fluids! Should be done about 8pm! UGH!

3pm update: Waiting on lab draw and then the "experimental" drug drips for one hour! Going great! Photo at the top is of the "experimental" drug. Duly marked as experimental! IV is annoying him, but he's tolerating it. Still joshing with the nurses and being 'funny'.

5:30pm: Dale has had one hour of fluid IVs so far. Dr. Tsao wanted 4 hours of fluids after treatment to help flush the kidneys. Dinner has been ordered and the first round of FedEx cup is complete! Dale had another blood draw one hour after the experimental drug. His last blood draw today. Fluids should be finished around 8:30pm, then we'll head to Pearland for the night. Dennis picked up all of Dale's home medications and they are waiting for us at home. Dale will take a steroid for 3 days and Zofran as necessary. He also has Compazine for nausea if needed. Everyone hear really preaches "fluids" so I guess that's our new mantra!

Dale + Figitumumab!

Dale won the MD Anderson computer lottery today!

He gets the new experimental Pfizer drug, Figitumumab, that looks to beat standard chemotherapy responses to his type cancer by about 23% better odds! Yippee! Hooray!

To quote my Father, "I'm the luckiest guy around!".

Thursday's treatment will take about 7 hours for all three drugs to be administered. Dale will have several blood draws prior to treatment and then another blood draw one hour after treatment.

Schedule grows

Dale's calendar is filling up with more blood tests and treatment:


Time........... Appointments for 10/13/2009
7:20 AM.... CHEST, PA & LAT
7:45 AM.... BLOOD/SPECIMEN COLLECTION
9:00 AM.... TSAO, ANNE M.D.

Dale will have his second treatment as soon as his appointment with Dr. Tsao is completed.

Signing on the dotted line......

After arriving at MD Anderson at 7:15am, Dale signed his consent forms after meeting with two clinical research nurses, Mary and Cheryl. We had a very informative Q&A session and then headed down to the Diagnostic Center for Dale's bloodwork, EKG and chest Xray. After a few minutes there, we retired to the Hospitality area for coffee and breakfast.

At 10:30am we met Dr. Daniel Karp. A straight-to-the-point, humorless doctor who chairs the Clinical Study. He did a pretty complete physical exam and then answered more questions.

Mary and Cheryl went over Chemotherapy training and answered more questions. About this time, everyone's eyes glazed over from the mounds and mounds of information! We were out of MD Anderson by noon and headed home to Pearland for a yummy lunch.

Dale doesn't have to go back tomorrow, he got most of his chemo training today. The remainder will be given during his first treatment. He does however, have to go back this evening for a Cat Scan!

Dale's second Chemo treatment will be on Oct. 12th.

A new adventure begins!

I spoke with Mary Rollins today. She is the Research Nurse for Dale's clinical trial treatment. A tentative schedule has been set:

Sept. 17th!
7:30 AM............ NURSING ASSESSMENT
8:00 AM........... BLOOD/SPECIMEN COLLECTION
8:30 AM ...........EKG - RESTING
10:30 AM......... KARP, DANIEL M.D.
11:00 AM.......... CHEST, PA & LAT
Home to Pearland for a while
7:50 PM ............CT CHECKIN-DONT EAT 3 HR PRIOR
8:20 PM ............CT SCAN, CHEST


Time............... Appointments for 9/24/2009
8:00 AM.........BLOOD/SPECIMEN COLLECTION
8:45 AM ........PHARMACOLOGY SAMPLING
9:00 AM......... TRTMNT SCHEDULED,ORDERS NEEDED

Additional Treatment dates:
Oct. 15th
(Reevaluate) Nov. 5, Nov. 26
(Reevaluate) Dec. 17, and Jan. 7

Bloodwork needed on Oct. 1 and Oct. 8 can be drawn at a lab in Victoria

Dale is the 1st of 30 patients at MD Anderson that has been accepted into the Phase III Clinical Trial of Figitumumab. On Sept. 22nd, the computer will decide if he is getting this third medication or not! Pray he's randomized into the group getting Figitumumab!

The Party of All Time

For those that were there....congratulations on your decision to attend the most fabulous and fun party in Dale's entire life! Good friends, food and fun with overflowing love and fellowship! Just couldn't have been better!

Check out Photos from the party:

http://www1.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=1380921023/a=90646091_607335023/

Clinical Trial - best option

Dale met with Dr. Tsao today to discuss treatment for his recurrent lung cancer. Dr. Tsao does not want another biopsy done on the recurrent cancers. Dr. Tsao has recommended that Dale join a Clinical Trial at MD Anderson. This trial is a combination of the chemotherapy drugs, Paclitaxel and Carboplatin, and a new experimental drug by Pfizer called Figitumumab. Figitumumab (or CP-751871) is a drug designed to block certain receptors that are found on the surface of cancer cells. Figitumumab restricts the cells ability to uptake sugars and may cause the cells to die. Paclitaxel is designed to block cancer cells from dividing, which may cause them to die. Carboplatin is designed to interfere with the growth of cancer cells by stopping cell division, which may cause the cells to die.

If Dale meets the criteria for this trial, he will be accepted and initial bloodwork will be taken. An EKG will be needed also. This study is 'randomized', so not everyone recieves the new drug. Some just get the two chemotherapy drugs. Patients are told before the study starts if they are getting the new drug or not. Dale may withdraw from the study at any time.

Treatments occur about once every 3 weeks and after two treatments, Dr. Tsao will reassess the progress by doing another CT Scan. If progress is noted and Dale is tolerating the treatment well, the 3rd & 4th treatments will be scheduled. After the 3rd & 4th treatments, there will be another assessment to determine if Dale will continue on to the final 5th & 6th treatment. This is a Phase 3 trial, which means it has passed the first two Phases of trials and is showing good promise on cancers like Dale's with progression-free survival (PFS).

Dr. Tsao discussed side effects and the "ugly" side of chemotherapy, but was very adament that this is the best option for Dale. She hopes that Dale will have 2-4 days of feeling slightly ill and tired after the treatment and then recover fully for the next couple of weeks before the next treatment. At each treatment, she will exam Dale and review current bloodwork to verify that he's "good to go" with another treatment.

If, at the end of the 6th treatment, Dale will have the option to continue the Figitumumab for another 17 months (without chemotherapy) if he is seeing good results.

The plan is to discuss this with family members this weekend and if the consensus is to go ahead with the trial, then once accepted into the trial - treatment could begin next week!

http://mediaroom.pfizer.com/portal/site/pfizer/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&ndmConfigId=1016273&newsId=20090530005024&newsLang=en

Pet Scan results

Dale's Pet Scan didn't throw him any additional curve balls! Dr. O'Reilly had a 30 minute phone consult with Jackie and Dale and he confirmed that the Pet scan only picked up the "suspicious spots" that they had already seen on the CT scan from last week. Dr. O'Reilly would like to biopsy one of those spots and then let Dr. Tsao discuss chemotherapy options.

Good news here is that there wasn't anything lurking anywhere else in his body.

Pet Scan complete

Pet Scan completed this morning, then we had a fabulous lunch at Houston's restaurant near the Rice Village. Houston's is Dale's primary care physician's favorite restaurant in Houston! We agree..mighty tasty food.

Now we wait for news from the Pet Scan and the recommendations from Dale's team of doctors!

Next Appointments!

Next Appointments:

09/02/2009 8:45 AM
BLOOD/SPECIMEN COLLECTION

09/02/2009 10:00 AM
TSAO, ANNE M.D.

Pet Scan on the calendar!

Pet Scan will be on Aug. 27th at 9:30am

Dammit

Today's visit with Dr. O'Reilly brought us the news that we all feared.

Several "spots" were detected on the CT Scan, some in both lungs. Further tests are required, namely, a Pet Scan to help distinguish those "spots" that are cancer from those that are "inflammatory".

This was absolutely NOT the news we wanted to hear.

The tumor treated this Spring with Proton Radiation is gone! One happy bit of news delivered today.

The news of new "places of concern" was taken with a bit of teary eyes from all of us in the room. Dr. O'Reilly assured Dale that he would continue to work with him to find the best options for treatment. He also told Dale that we are now working to contain the cancer, not cure it. This was a bitter pill to swallow and we're all trying to remain upbeat and positive until we have further information after the Pet Scan and several "committee" consult at MD Anderson.

Options suggested depending upon Pet Scan results:
1. Radiosurgery (4-10 daily treatments): A radiation therapy procedure that uses special equipment to position the patient and precisely deliver a large radiation dose to a tumor and not to normal tissue. This procedure does not use surgery. It is used to treat brain tumors and other brain disorders. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer, such as lung cancer. Also called radiation surgery, stereotactic external-beam radiation, stereotactic radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotaxic radiosurgery. (Dr. O'Reilly)
2. Chemotherapy (Dr. Tsao)
3. Wedge resection of one "highly" suspicious spot (Dr. Rice)

Dale still feels great although it's taken a few hours for the "gut punch" to subside. I can hear him singing "One Day at at Time" in the kitchen right now! I guess that's our new mantra!

Side note: If you haven't responded to the RSVP for Dale's 8oth birthday bash - today would be a great day to call Marcy!

Check up time again!

Back at MD Anderson today for blood tests and xrays. Tomorrow it's CT scan and then a visit with Dr. O'Reilly to see what all those test show.

Fingers crossed that they don't see anything unusual!

I'll update tomorrow night!

Hotel Information for the Big "80" Birthday Bash!

Quality Inn
3112 Houston Highway
Victoria, TX, US, 77901
Phone: (361) 578-2030
Fax: (361) 573-1238

Call for reservations, mention the "Dale Stover's Birthday" rate and select which nights, bed configuration and smoking preferences.

Rate is $61.99/night.

Save the Date for Dale's 80th Birthday Bash!

Location:
Power Avenue Warehouse
402 East Power Avenue
Victoria, TX 77901 US

When: Sunday, September 6, 3:00PM

The Stover Girls want to give you and your family the heads up for Dale's 80th Birthday Party. Mark your calendars and watch for invitations in your mailbox shortly.

For those of you with family members that don't have internet access, let them know to "Save the Date"!

June Update

Dale and Jackie spent a few days in Pearland this past week. They were delivering the Gaubatz kids to Pearland after enjoying them in Victoria for a few days.

Dale looks great. His color, attitude and level of activity are all back to "normal". He has a vague new sensation in his chest where the Proton treatments were directed. Not a pain, just a sensation.

Dale's followup appointments have been moved to Aug. 10-11 at MD Anderson, to accomodate his physician's vacation schedule.

For family and friends, "Save the Date" of Sept. 6, 2009. Details to follow!

Week 38 - feeling the effects!

As warned by Dr. O'Reilly, the week after treatment ends is usually the worst for side effects. Dale has been having some difficulty swallowing this week and is using Xyloxylin with good results. He's a bit tired this week, but trying to keep his activity level the same. His "sunburn" on his left arm is a bit blistered, but Aquaphor appears to be giving him relief.

Emily will escort Dale and Jackie to San Antonio this weekend, (on their way to Marble Falls) to see their new great-grandson, James. 'Giddy' best describes their voices on the phone, when talking about him! James' middle name is Richard. Dale's pretty honored by that!

And then #37 was done!

Dale, Jackie and all the Boedekers travelled to the Proton Center today to witness Dale's Gong Ceremony and thank all of the fine people for their care and concern over the past 37 treatments.

It was a tearful goodbye to new friends for Dale. It was a great day for those patients who are just starting their Proton Therapy journey. Some visited with Dale and his story was very reassuring to them!

Dale and Jackie are back in Victoria tonight and wondering what to do tomorrow....a Thursday without a treatment or doctor's appointment! WOW!

Dale will have his follow up appointment with Dr. O'Reilly on July 28th. He'll have a CT Scan on July 27th prior to seeing the doctor...but until then - it's PARTY TIME!

Day 36 Proton Therapy

Down to ONE!

Dale had his 36th treatment today and then had his last "weekly see" with Dr. O'Reilly.

Dr. O'Reilly will not see Dale again until late July. The usual 6 week checkup will be postponed. That checkup is usually to see if side effects have dissipated. Since Dale didn't really have any side effects, he doesn't need that visit.

Dale had his pictures taken with several staff members today. A new photo album to fill!

Plans are underway for Dale's final treatment reception. A trip to Sam's and Walmart and we're ready to celebrate!

Day 35 Proton Therapy

Dale and Jackie drove to Houston in time for Dale 35th treatment at the Proton Center.
Dale is still virtually symptom free, with the exception of a fist-sized sunburn under his left arm.

Tomorrow will be Dale's last "weekly see" visit with Dr. O'Reilly. He will see Dr. O'Reilly late in June for a followup check to his treatment.

Plans are underway for refreshments to serve at Wednesday's Gong Ceremony.

If you're free Wednesday at 1pm, please join us at the Proton Center on Old Spanish Trail for the celebration of Dale's 37th and final treatment! You'll be amazed at how great he looks!

I still catch myself looking at Dale and shaking my head in disbelief that a man nearly 80 years old can take this much stress/strain medically and show no side effects or symptoms! Amazing!

Day 34 Proton Therapy

Dale and Jackie loaded up the car and headed to Proton Center around 10am this morning. They listened to "Ben's" gong ring! Ben, a new 11 year old friend, battling brain cancer, finished his proton therapy today. He'll take two weeks off and then start chemo! Dale and Jackie have watched Ben go from a full head of hair to a "Mr. Clean" man hairdo.

Dale let another gentleman cut in line for treatment today...the gentleman wasn't feeling or looking too well, so he wanted to be treated quickly.

Jackie and Dale left Houston around noon and headed home to Victoria for their last weekend of commuting!

Can I get a "HELL YES!" on the 3 more treatments that remain?

A little tiny list!

For those of you that have been following the recent chapter in Dale's fight against Lung Cancer..you realize that it's been weeks of daily treatments. MD Anderson does a great job of connecting their patients to the hospital's system of appointments, treatments, reports and status. At Dale's "mymdanderson.org" page, he is able to view lots of information. Appointments are listed on the appointment page....and on Mar. 24th he had a long page of appointments. 37 appointments listed! Today, his appointment page looks like this:


Date / Time Description Location Status
05/07/2009 1:00 PM Rehabilitation Services Proton Therapy Center
Proton Therapy Center is located in the East of Fannin near 1840 OST.

05/08/2009 1:00 PM Rehabilitation Services Proton Therapy Center
Proton Therapy Center is located in the East of Fannin near 1840 OST.

05/11/2009 1:00 PM Rehabilitation Services Proton Therapy Center
Proton Therapy Center is located in the East of Fannin near 1840 OST.

05/12/2009 1:00 PM Rehabilitation Services Proton Therapy Center
Proton Therapy Center is located in the East of Fannin near 1840 OST.

05/13/2009 1:00 PM Rehabilitation Services Proton Therapy Center
Proton Therapy Center is located in the East of Fannin near 1840 OST.

A wee tiny list! A visual reminder that Dale continues to Fight the Fight! All of our fears about side effects and the stress and strain of 37 treatments has vanished. Smiles all around...laughter at the storm he's weathered so well!

Day 32 Proton Therapy

Down to 5!

Dale and Jackie made the all too familiar trip to the Proton Center today for their 32nd treatment.

I'm headed to Lubbock for the weekend for Emily's graduation from Texas Tech! Jackie and Dale will finish out their week here in Pearland and then head home to Victoria for their last weekend of commuting!

Day 31 Proton Therapy

Can you say "SIX MORE TREATMENTS"?

Dale had his 31st treatment and then his weekly see with Dr. O'Reilly. An area under his left arm about the size of his fist is red but not irritated. Dr. O'Reilly showed us Dale's treatment plan on his computer. He showed us the CT Scan with the treatment plan overlayed on the scan. Each area is outlined in a different colored line depicting the strength of treatment to a specific area. The "pink" line (strongest) follows a path directly under Dale's left arm! Hence the red area. Dr. O'Reilly also showed us the Xray image of Dale's chest with a super-imposed "Aperture" placed on the xray. The aperture has a cut out in it exactly the size of Dale's tumor. Dale is getting 74 CGE's of radiation (2 CGE/treatment). Had Dale used Photon radiation that number would have been decreased to 60-66, because Photo radiation has to be administered at a lower level.

Dale thinks his energy level has wained a bit, but he put together a BBQ pit this morning - so I'm not sure he's all that tired!

Day 30 Proton Therapy

Jackie and Dale arrived at the Proton Center and Dale was immediately taken back for treatment. They are in Pearland for their last full week of treatments! Dale is still feeling fine and polished off almost an entire plate of Mexican food tonight at Gringo's. So much for lack of appetite or issues with swallowing!

Tomorrow will be his "weekly see" with Dr. O'Reilly and then another treatment at 1pm.

Hard to believe he's so close to the end and still waiting on a serious side effect!

Day 29 Proton Therapy

Dale and Jackie went to Proton Center today and after Dale's treatment they headed to Victoria. Dad has 8 more treatments! They will be back Monday for treatment at 1:00pm and then head back to Pearland for their last full week of treatments!

Day 28 Proton Therapy

Single digits left!!!!!

Appointment time was 1pm today and the technicians were waiting on Dale when he got there!

Back at home by 2:15!

9 days left, puts a huge smile on Dale's face!

Day 27 Proton Therapy

Dale got an early call again today and went in at 11:15 for treatment.
He's coughed a bit more today, it's not productive but does cause his face to flush. His appetite is still good, he split a chicken fried steak with mom tonight for dinner. Slept well last night, didn't take any Xyloxilyn. Maybe a little fatigued looking in the eyes, but is still moving around normally.

Day 26 Proton Therapy

Dale met with Dr. O'Reilly today. Dale is coughing a bit more and Dr. O'Reilly believes it's the burn sensation in his esophagus causing the coughing. Dale used Xyloxylin last night and it worked well. Dale's weight and vitals are good. Skin doesn't show much reaction to the radiation and his lungs sound good also.

Dale's proton treatment was early today, 11am!

Home by 2:15!

Day 25 Proton Therapy

Dale met with the Dietician again today. She's happy with his report. His weight is consistent and he still has avoided the "trouble swallowing" side effect.

Dale had his treatment and was home in Pearland by 3:30! Starting Thursday this week, Dale's treatments will be at 1:00pm each day. Yippee! They will be able to drive themselves each day since they are now avoiding rush hour!

Day 24 Proton Therapy

Dale got a call from TO (his therapist at the Proton Center) to come on in at 11:30am and they would squeeze him in! So Jackie and Dale loaded up and headed to the treatment center and then they will head to Victoria for the weekend!

Day 23 Proton Therapy

I drove Jackie and Dale to the Proton Center today..we waited about 1:15 for Dale's treatment. Dale has noticed a bit of redness on his chest. It's not painful but apparently a side effect of the treatment. When we got home, Jackie's brother and nephew, Bill and Jon arrived from Lake Charles for an overnight visit. They really enjoyed the visit with them!

Day 22 Proton Therapy

Marcy took Dale and Jackie to the Proton Center again today. This week the Proton Center has been very busy and Dale's appointments haven't been taken earlier than the appointed time, which had become the norm.

Dale and Jackie will drop Marcy off at the airport on their way home and Marcy will go back to Phoenix! It was great having her here to take do the Proton Center shuttle service! I know Jackie and Dale love having their kids around them!

Day 21 Proton Therapy

Doctor's appointment was non-eventful.

Treatment was completed and home by 4:55pm!

Dennis and Phyllis are having a great time getting away from it all and Marcy is our savior for a few days!

Day 20 Proton Therapy

Marcy's in town this week for a few days and driving Jackie and Dale to the Proton Center! YEAH! Dale is over half way through with his treatments. He felt as though he was having to swallow harder over the weekend, but that's a minor issue.

Dale will have his "weekly see" on Tuesday and hopefully get a "thumbs up" from Dr. O'Reilly!

Day 18 and 19 Proton Therapy

Dale had treatment 18 on Thursday. James Gaubatz and Betty drove up from Angleton for a morning visit before treatment. Lunch at Gringo's!

Dale got a real early call on Day 19 from the Proton Center (7:55am!) so they (mom, dad and Missy) packed up their stuff quickly and headed to MD Anderson for treatment. By noon they were in Victoria and rejoicing for their own surroundings and normalcy!

Still hearing no complaints about symptoms...this is unbelievable!

This is a video from another facility, but it really gives a good explanation of the treatment:
http://www.floridaproton.org/cancer-treatment/proton-therapy-video.html

Day 17 Proton Therapy

Appointment went quick and they took Dale early. Missy chauffeured today!

Still symptomless!

Day 16 Proton Therapy

Dale met with Dr. O'Reilly today. Dale's latest Mapping Simulation shows some decrease in the size of the tumor but the location is staying constant. There will be no changes to the proton beam for the remainder of the treatment. Dale's overall health remains good. He's lost about 6 pounds over the past 3 weeks, but his activity level and diet are good.

Dale had his 16th treatment today. We were home by 4:30! Missy arrived at 5:30 so we are visiting this evening. I'm excited to have Missy here to drive them to treatments! I'm also excited to get to see my sister again! Cancer does have it's benefits!

Day 15 Proton Therapy

Dale got an early call today, so he and Jackie dropped everything and raced to the Proton Center for treatment at 10:30am and then waited an hour or so for Dale's second Mapping Simulation. This mapping was to re-assess the location and size of the tumor to tweak the proton beam aperture. Tomorrow afternoon, Dale will meet with Dr. O'Reilly for his 'Weekly See' and then have his regular treatment.

Missy is flying in from Colorado Springs tomorrow for a few days. She'll be driving Dale and Jackie to their appointments on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday! Glad to have her here!!!!!!

Dale still appears to be handling the treatments well. While he coughs some, his esophagus hasn't become a big issue and he doesn't appear to be fatigued. Fingers crossed that things stay that way!

Day 14 Proton Therapy

Emily drove Dale and Jackie to the Proton Center today. They went a little early and were able to get treatment down and home by 4!

Dale has had an excellent day today. He's been up and moving 75% of the day and seems to feel great!

Dale has a bit of a cough occasionally, but hasn't complained with any throat/esophagus irritation today.

Day 13 Proton Therapy

Treatment ran late today, 5:15pm. Thirty five minutes later we were on the road home..or should I say, Parked on Hwy 288! Rush hour traffic on a holiday weekend...crappola!

Dale is doing fine...found Coors Light (non alcoholic beer)! Happy hour by the pool and praying to the fertility gods that his granddaughter and grand son-in-law have success in their quest for a baby!

Day Uh Oh!

Apparently, Gantry 1 (which is Dale's apparatus) is on the fritz today and so his appointment is either going to be very delayed (4-5 hours late) or canceled completed! Not to worry, they will add an additional treatment to his schedule at the end!!! UGH!


Appointment moved to 5:15pm...so we're home at 7pm after fighting rush hour traffic!

12 down, 26 to go.

Jackie goes to see Dr. Lisch (podiatrist) tomorrow, she's having foot issues. We're hoping to sneak into the Proton Center early for treatment too!

Day 11, Proton Therapy

Dale met with Dr. O'Reilly today. Dr. O'Reilly's checkup was fine. He did prescribe a Lidocaine cocktail called Xyloxylin, for Dale to use 10 minutes prior to eating to numb his esophagus. Xyloxylin is a combination of Maalox, lidocaine and diphenhydramine. He also recommended a new lotion for Dale to use to alleviate the red and itchy skin called Aquaphor. Some of the coughing that Dale is doing now is due to the damage being inflicted on his lungs during treatment.

Dale had his 11th treatment today...took 37 minutes from start to finish!

Invitation stands to anyone in the area that might want to drive over for the day and visit. They don't have much going on during the day here..just waiting around for Dale's 4:30pm appointment.

Day 10, Proton Therapy

Dale met with his nutritionist today and also had his 10th treatment. Dale is beginning to feel some "burn" in his esophagus from the treatments. He's not really altering his diet, just aware that something is going on.

Jackie and Dale are back in Pearland for two weeks straight. They will be celebrating Easter here in Pearland with us!

Day 9 Proton Therapy

Dale and Jackie headed to the Proton Center this morning for Dale's 11:30am appointment. They called at noon and they were done and headed to Victoria for the weekend!

Not sure about the first appointment time on Monday..hoping to get a firm answer sometime today!

Still going strong and 'living the dream'!

Day 8 Proton Therapy

Dale's appointments now are just at 30 minutes long. The drive in to the Proton Center takes about 25 minutes each way...so there's more time in the car than on the table!

Jackie made up "goody bags" of Mexican Wedding cookies and distributed them to patients and staff today! Those treats brighten up everyone's days. So many patients are away from home and truly appreciate a homemade goody!

Tomorrows treatment is at 11:30am, then the Stover's head to Victoria for the weekend!

Day 7 Proton Therapy

Dale got an early call this morning at 9:30 asking if he would mind taking his treatment in 30 minutes! So they dropped everything and rushed to the Proton Center and were home by 11!

Now for baking 250 Mexican Wedding cookies!

Dale will also get his treatment early on Friday at 11:30am, so they can head home again for another weekend in Victoria!

No symptoms or side effects, so far....

Day 6 Proton Therapy

Dr. O'Reilly visited with Dale today and Dale passed his physical exam with flying colors. Dr. O'Reilly expects the Proton Radiation to destroy the tumor completely. Six weeks after radiation is over, there will be another CT scan to decide the effectiveness of the radiation.

We went to the Proton Therapy Center early today, since Dale's doctor appointment was over early. Thankfully, they took Dale early and we were on our way home at 3pm.

Enjoyed Deer Park Elementary's 4th & 5th choir concert tonight (Emily's first 'teaching' gig)!
Great evening entertainment!

Day 5 Proton Therapy

Jackie and Dale drove back to Houston today in time for Dale's 2pm treatment. They arrived in Pearland around 3pm and are still reporting that Dale doesn't have any side effects from the treatment.

Tomorrow Dale will see Dr. O'Reilly for a "weekly see" (short appointment to ask questions) and then has his 6th treatment.

Day 4 Proton Therapy

Day 4 was Dale and Jackie's first solo trip to the PTC! Yes, Dale drove from Pearland to the Medical Center! Then after an early appointment at 11am....Dale and Jackie headed home. Home to Victoria! They are having a break from the Boedekers and enjoying a few days of downtime. They will return to Houston on Monday for Dale's next treatment and then on to Pearland for the rest of the week!

4 down, 33 to go!

Day 3 Proton Therapy

Day 3 found Dale, Jackie and I arriving early in an attempt to avoid a huge thunderstorm approaching Houston. As luck would have it, when we got the PTC Dad's machine (G1) was down! Lightning had played havoc with the electronics and the technicians were working quickly to reset the machine. Dale's appointment was delayed about 15 minutes. Total time in the back today was 50 minutes. We fought rush hour traffic and were home about 6:30.

Dale is really enjoying the staff at the PTC. They greet him everyday like he's an old friend stopping off at a local tavern for a cold beer! He gives them a hard time and they enjoy the friendly banter.

Dale still isn't having any symptoms..though he has complained that salt isn't tasting salty? Will watch for this complaint more often to see if this is a side effect he is feeling.

Dale's appointment tomorrow will hopefully be moved from 4:30pm to 11am so they can head back to Victoria for the weekend. Jackie's having issues with a swollen ankle and her Dr. in Victoria wants her to have some bloodwork Saturday morning. They will return on Monday for another treatment at 2pm.

So far the living arrangements are working well, although I'm needing to find things for them to do during the day while we're all at work. If any of you have a few hours during the daytime, they'd love a visit or perhaps a drive to Galveston.

Missy and family have returned to Colorado Springs following their extended Spring Break in Texas. It was a great joy to have her along for the first few days of treatment. I think it was great for her to see where Dale will be spending the next 7 weeks of his life!

34 more treatments!

Day 2 Proton Therapy

We all made the now daily trek to MD Anderson's Proton Therapy Center for the 4:30 treatment. Dale got checked in and we moved to the waiting area just about time the fire alarm went off! No real fire, but it took about 30 minutes for the fire department and MD Anderson officials to sweep the building looking for the problem! So Dale's 4:30 appointment was now an hour late and took about 45 minutes.

We stayed at the center after his treatment, so we could join the once monthly tour of the entire facility. Oh my gosh! This was incredible. The brain power and engineering feat to create this technology was amazing. Unless you see this facility you will never comprehend the magnitude of the treatment room! The rotating "gantry" that moves around Dale while he is treated is about 3 stories tall!

We finally left the Proton Center at 8:30 and headed home with a Sonic Burger for dinner!

Dale still feels no effect from the treatment.

Here's a video about Proton Therapy: http://www.mpri.org/flash/presentation.html

mms://mdavs1.mdacc.tmc.edu/media/patiented/108.wmv

Day 1 Proton Therapy

Dale is back at Pearland "home" after his first Proton Therapy radiation treatment. His appointment was a little long today, first time is a little longer than subsequent treatments. We're to be on the lookout for any side effects no matter how small. We'll document those and report weekly to Dr. O'Reilly. Dale will also consult with nutritionist next Monday to review diet.

Dale says you don't feel anything during the treatment. Listened to Roy Orbison sing "Pretty Woman" and a few other requested tunes! Appointments continue daily for 36 more days!

Update from Dr. O'Reilly

Dale's mapping simulation went perfect and his MRI didn't show any cancer in his brain.

Dale will see Dr. O'Reilly on Tuesday, Mar. 24th at 1:30pm for a "weekly see" and then have his first of 37 proton radiation treatments at 4:30pm.

But for now...Jackie and Dale are sorting through their tropical shirts, swimsuits and formal gowns as they pack for their Spring Break 2009 Family Reunion cruise!!! Bon Voyage!

Simulation Mapping complete

Dale had his simulation mapping appointment today. He has been tattoo'd and marked up! He's sporting three huge x's on his torso, they I'm sure are going to clash with his swim trunks next week on the beaches of the Southern Caribbean. Dale also had an MRI of his head today, standard protocol before other cancer treatments at MD Anderson.

Dale rec'd his weekly schedule of treatments, starting Mar. 24th - May 13 at 4:30pm every weekday! He got his "white card" for admission at the Proton Therapy Center.

Dale and Jackie will head back to Victoria tomorrow and get packing for their cruise next week! In a word, we are all giddy with excitement about this great family vacation!

Yippee, No Chemotherapy!

Dale met with Dr. Anne Tsao (chemotherapy oncologist). She does not feel that chemotherapy is necessary for Dale's treatment. She defers treatment to Dr. Michael O'Reilly (radiation oncologist).

Dr. O'Reilly met with Dale and Jackie and laid out a plan of treatment for Dale aimed at destroying the cancerous tumor! Dale will begin 7 weeks of proton radiation therapy at MD Anderson on Mar. 24th. He will have another Brain MRI (3:30pm) and a simulation mapping scan Mar. 9th at 2:30pm. The mapping scan will further define the exact location of the tumor for the treatments.
Dr. O'Reilly discussed side effects and future scans to access the effectiveness of the treatment.

Dale was very relieved to not hear "Chemotherapy" in his treatment plan and is anxious to get the radiation treatments going soon. They will temporarily move to Pearland for the duration of the treatment, with weekends in Victoria is Dale feels up to the travel.

Biopsy Report

Dale's biopsy revealed a Squamous Cell Carcinoma in his chest. This is the same type cancer removed during resection in Dec. 2007. It was unclear from the biopsy report if this is a spread or a new tumor.

Jackie and Dale are headed to Pearland now, for tomorrow's appointments at MD Anderson.

Pet Scan findings

Pet Scan results showed a 3.7 cm x 2.9 cm lymph node in the middle of the chest (uptake 9.1 - for those who know what that means) and a small nodule in the lower left lung (uptake 3.8).
There were no other findings anywhere else in his body.

These findings confirm what was seen on the CT scan.

We are still waiting for the biopsy results.

Live update

At 6:50am, Dale was admitted to the Diagnosic Imaging - D center at the Alkek Building of MD Anderson. Jackie is with him as he gets prepped for today's Mediastinal biopsy. Procedure should take 1-1/2 hours, recover 3+ hours. I will update this post as the day progresses.

UPDATE:
Procedure took one hour. Recovery for 3 hours and then home to Pearland for the night. No pain from the procedure. We await word on the Pet Scan yesterday.

High Hopes

Today's Pet Scan was completed with no complications. Dale had a meeting with the Physician's Assistant for Dr. Madoff (interventional radiologist) who will do the Lung Biopsy tomorrow morning. Mostly that was a short physical and some discussion of possible complications.

Enjoying a few adult beverages at Rotary House this evening...up early in the morning for the biopsy.

Cross everything tonight!

Any nurses out there with a definition for us?

Not sure what this is, but Dale has one at 2:15pm on Thursday:

VIR PRE-PROCEDURE EVAL NEW LV2

Also, for those in the Houston area who'd like to join us for one or twenty cocktails Thursday evening. Dale, Jackie and I will be at the bar at the Jesse Jones Rotary House hotel (Marriott Hotel adjacent to MD Anderson) throwing back cold ones from 5:30pm Thursday until one of us falls off the bar stool! Then we'll carry that fallen friend to their hotel room for a good night's sleep!

See ya there!

It is what it is...

Dale rec'd word today at his semi-annual checkup that it appears his cancer has recurred. A 2cm tumor was found near his left lung. Further testing next week will confirm this diagnosis and set us on a plan of treatment based on the outcome of the tests.

Dale will have a Pet Scan on Thursday, Feb. 19th at MD Anderson at 11am. He will have a needle biopsy on Friday, Feb. 20th at 7am. He will meet with Dr. Anne Tsao (chemotherapy oncologist) at 10am on Feb. 25th and a Radiation Oncologist at 1:45pm...to determine which route for treatment will best benefit him. Additional surgery is not an option for him.

While this wasn't the news we had hoped to hear. We are hopeful that if this tumor is indeed another cancer, that it is a single tumor and that targeted radiation treatments can destroy it.

Dr. Rice assured Dale that his Spring Break cruise will go on as scheduled with any treatments occurring after the cruise.

Dale feels fine and his attitude is good. "It is, what it is", and we will deal with it.

Voyager of the Seas! Christmas 2008

Waiting for the lifeboat drill! Reflective tape works well!

Poolside on the Lido Deck!

Champagne Toast in Jackie and Dale's suite before Christmas Eve dinner!

Christmas morning in Dennis and Phyllis' cabin!