Long day today...
Spent better part of the day watching Lilli play basketball. Thats always great, and today was no exception. I have missed a few games this year due to the appointments, hospital stays etc. She had two today, and it was nice to get out and enjoy those with her, her fan club. She played well, and we all had fun. It was then onto dinner and groceries with the wife. These sound like routine things for most people, but you have to understand, my typical day over the past month consist of no more than 20-30 steps with a walker. Thats why I type this nonesense... these are vast improvements people! Ha. I know an afternoon at a 11yr old girls basketball game, dinner and groceries with the wife might not be really a "homerun" of a Saturday for some 29yr old men, but for me it meant alot was one of the better days I've had in a long time. This whole fight is a blessing in disguise. There is a light that portrays the days events just a little differently now than it did a month ago, and thats the truth. Things happen for a reason.
My back is doing better by the day, not sure what to attribute that to other than all the above. The radiation or any of the numerous prescription meds could be the cause, but I do know that they all come with some adverse side effects, which I am battling now. The steriod that they have me on right from day one, to help get things undercontrol and slow the spread of cancer down, is also known to deteriorate muscle. Well.... it has. My muscle mass throughout my body has literally melted away. So, the pain is better, but now I battle severe weekness and high blood pressure. Its almost comical. I wake up each day wondering what symptom will pop up today. It reminds me of the old arcade game with the weasal that pops his head up, you beat the hell out of it with a mallet, forcing it back into the hole, and then another pops up somewhere else and you battle that bastard until another wears his head elsewhere. This disease has a way of making you just feel weird, thats the best way I can explain it. Nothings right, its all wrong. Like I mentioned, I wake up, or get out of the chair and its one of those "what the hell?...." moments, and you just shake your head and chalk it up to just being part of "it". Either this doesnt work, or this is sagging, or this hurts, or that one thing is back and its numb.
Never the less, the dosages of some of the meds are changing slightly and we'll get these latest concerns whipped into shape as well. The main concern now as stated in the last posting is the cancer itself and getting that undercontrol, which we are.
It could be worse. Just watch the news. I have alot going for me here. Great people and enviroment surrounding me, and the love and support that shows up here, on the phone and in person through out the day. I love the comments on here and in emails. Keep em coming. Seen some old names come up that I have not heard in a while, which is a pleasant surprise. Once again, things happen for a reason, and we'll be better for it.
I am setting a goal today and it may be a bit out there.... but I will golf again this year.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
patients
I made a commitment last night to gain a better understanding of the game Curling. As I sit here watching the US Hockey team walk through the Finland squad, I figured I would do a bit of research. Here are two links that may help....
- EVERYTHING CURLING
http://www.worldcurling.org/
- SIMPLE INSTRUCTION
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2721071/understanding_basic_curling_rules_and.html?singlepage=true
This morning I found myself getting a bit impatient with being so weak and not seeing instant results. Dont get me wrong, I am better today than I was 2-3 weeks ago. But I get frustrated with being so limited in what I can do. I made some phone calls, get through the morning and it doesnt take long though for me to realize what I am up against and going through. My leg and muscle weakness is all part of this, and really not the main concern right now. One of the many medications they have me on to maintain and control the cancer actually causes muscle fatigue and loss. My thighs are litterally the size of my upper arms. The cancer in my spine, and bone has some effect on all this obviously as well. This isnt the 24hr flu, or a virus I get over in 2-3 weeks. I keep feeling I should be able to do the things I was doing 3 months ago, but that just isnt the case. I have to keep it in perspective. Right now the focus is the cancer itself. The legs, multiple back fractures, kidney removal and other ailments are things that we will address later. We are attacking the cancer, as we speak, and will continue to. The primary areas of concern in my back are recieving radiation and are more under control now than they were.
Chemo may or may not start Wednesday, as of right now, I think we are still on. We may do a weeks more radiation, in which case they will push the chemo back a week, due to the fact that they dont want to tax my body anymore than they have to. I will be getting the port for the chemo installed Monday, so back to the hospital, but just as outpatient this time.
Enough of that medical jargin...
USA hockey is impressive, Sunday should provide some good television as we go for gold.
I have a new challenge as Bill and I have the same book of New York Times crosswords, so let the games begin. Thanks Ann.... although Grandpa took it upon himself to get 3 puzzles up on me before delivering mine.
I am going to try and get down to Tigmaster early next week... actually kind of miss you guys. I may have to come down with some donuts or something. Things should slow down once chemo begins and allow a bit more time.
Really eager to get back in the shop. I have some of the best customers and friends in the world. All very understanding, and the support that has came from them all is truly amazing. Thank you all of you... I have said that personally to you all, but I wanted to here as well. I have some exciting projects and things in store for Vendetta Auto Fab, and am doing as much as I can for it all from home, but nothing makes up for shop time. It will happen.
Well my company has come and gone while I sat here writing this, and Lilli and Stacy are here now and I dont need to be on here all evening, so take care and feel free to comment. I tried to make it as easy as I could for folks to comment. Just remember, no "double clicking" and use comment as "Anonymous" unless you are a follower.
- EVERYTHING CURLING
http://www.worldcurling.org/
- SIMPLE INSTRUCTION
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2721071/understanding_basic_curling_rules_and.html?singlepage=true
This morning I found myself getting a bit impatient with being so weak and not seeing instant results. Dont get me wrong, I am better today than I was 2-3 weeks ago. But I get frustrated with being so limited in what I can do. I made some phone calls, get through the morning and it doesnt take long though for me to realize what I am up against and going through. My leg and muscle weakness is all part of this, and really not the main concern right now. One of the many medications they have me on to maintain and control the cancer actually causes muscle fatigue and loss. My thighs are litterally the size of my upper arms. The cancer in my spine, and bone has some effect on all this obviously as well. This isnt the 24hr flu, or a virus I get over in 2-3 weeks. I keep feeling I should be able to do the things I was doing 3 months ago, but that just isnt the case. I have to keep it in perspective. Right now the focus is the cancer itself. The legs, multiple back fractures, kidney removal and other ailments are things that we will address later. We are attacking the cancer, as we speak, and will continue to. The primary areas of concern in my back are recieving radiation and are more under control now than they were.
Chemo may or may not start Wednesday, as of right now, I think we are still on. We may do a weeks more radiation, in which case they will push the chemo back a week, due to the fact that they dont want to tax my body anymore than they have to. I will be getting the port for the chemo installed Monday, so back to the hospital, but just as outpatient this time.
Enough of that medical jargin...
USA hockey is impressive, Sunday should provide some good television as we go for gold.
I have a new challenge as Bill and I have the same book of New York Times crosswords, so let the games begin. Thanks Ann.... although Grandpa took it upon himself to get 3 puzzles up on me before delivering mine.
I am going to try and get down to Tigmaster early next week... actually kind of miss you guys. I may have to come down with some donuts or something. Things should slow down once chemo begins and allow a bit more time.
Really eager to get back in the shop. I have some of the best customers and friends in the world. All very understanding, and the support that has came from them all is truly amazing. Thank you all of you... I have said that personally to you all, but I wanted to here as well. I have some exciting projects and things in store for Vendetta Auto Fab, and am doing as much as I can for it all from home, but nothing makes up for shop time. It will happen.
Well my company has come and gone while I sat here writing this, and Lilli and Stacy are here now and I dont need to be on here all evening, so take care and feel free to comment. I tried to make it as easy as I could for folks to comment. Just remember, no "double clicking" and use comment as "Anonymous" unless you are a follower.
... same old song and dance ...
More radiation, and appointments this morning, nothing too different from the past mornings. Plan is still to start chemo next wednesday, Mar 3rd. Although that may change as they are talking about continuing radiation on a bit longer than expected. I dont know anymore than that at this point, but I will soon find out.
Been trying to get out and about a little in the mornings while we go to treatment, just to break up the day. Still quite weak, and muscle loss is very evident, but thats all part of this fight I guess. I miss the old routine and people I used to see regularly. Things have changed greatly, thats for sure, but the break and down time has definitely helped.
I will try to keep this up to date. Just alot of the same old stuff this week it seems. Had a good family gathering last evening that the grandparents... thats always good. Also, once again, we've recieved alot of nice surprises and tokens of support in all forms over the past few days, and I cant express how appreciative we are for these gestures.
Been trying to get out and about a little in the mornings while we go to treatment, just to break up the day. Still quite weak, and muscle loss is very evident, but thats all part of this fight I guess. I miss the old routine and people I used to see regularly. Things have changed greatly, thats for sure, but the break and down time has definitely helped.
I will try to keep this up to date. Just alot of the same old stuff this week it seems. Had a good family gathering last evening that the grandparents... thats always good. Also, once again, we've recieved alot of nice surprises and tokens of support in all forms over the past few days, and I cant express how appreciative we are for these gestures.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
...its gonna be a good day...
Ended last night here at my place with my parents leaving, saying their good byes, and finalizing plans for this morning. Anyone who knows my father, knows he enjoys a good breakfast as much as the next guy. It doesnt take much to talk him into a trip to his local regular coffee shop, where everyone knows his name.... TK. In true carpe diem fasion, I seize the opportunity and hit him up as he walks out the door. I mention that after radiation, we can maybe grab a bite to eat, we agree that is indeed a fine idea and we will see each other in the morning hours. Radiation is at 9am, we typically leave by 8:30.
Sleept in til about 6:18 am, phone rings and we're up and at em. Chalk it up to the Kacynski's superb communication skills or lack there of, but some how there was a misunderstanding about when breakfast was coming into play for this mornings plans. Never the less I was up, did the morning routine of checking blood pressure, emptying the pill box marked "tues a.m." and on to the shower. Except one glich, the blood pressure. It was out of sight. Too high to mention here. I had to take a step back, call TK back and inform him that I needed a few mins to collect myself and get this under control. I did, and by 7:20 I see the yellowed lights of the infamous PT Cruiser rolling in the drive. I open the garage door, timing my shuffle just right to just slid under the door as it opens. TK opens the passenger door to the cruiser and Im greated by the sounds Iron Maiden's "Where Eagles Dare". My old man's Pt Cruiser is a fully equipped taxi service for me as of late. The list of accomodations just expanded with the addition of Sirius Satellite Radio and the station known as "The Boneyard"... a deep medley of classic rock's staple artists. The short trip's soundtrack was interupted only once by a sudden and severe coughing spout that my father acknowedges was from what he thinks is a swallowed mustach whisker. Thats why I love my dad.... a spades a spade, and he calls it like he sees it.
We get to Eric's cafe, my dads regular stop and a great place to eat breakfast, period. I order a platter that gives most 300lb plus men a run for their money, most leave with a to go bag. I had it gone by the time the coffee was refilled. A couple of cups of coffee later, we talked plans of building about 3-4 different versions of a hidden hinge setup on a 1932 Ford, solved a few of the worlds economic woes in between, and finally we were headed to radiation.
The radiation process is typically very short. I am usually in and out in about 20 min. Not today. I get there on time, loaded on the table, everything is set and in position. Just when its time to press the "start" button, everything goes dark and chaos insues. Apparently they had some power issues, but my 20 min session turned into me laying on a hard table still in position for over an hour. Not good for the sore back that I am there to relieve.
Keep in mind the blood pressure.
I meet with Dr. Espinoza on Tuesday's, he is my Radiation / Oncologist. We just make sure things are on track and we think they are, besides the fact that I am now 2 hours into an appointment that typically takes 15-20 min. There was some discussion as to what other doctors have going with me and I determine that I just have too many doctors, especially for 29 years old.
The drive home was littered with falling ice from trees that had TK white knuckled and grabbin' gears in between a few explitives, and let me remind you of the blood pressure.
I have had a list of about 10 simple things to get done over the past 3 weeks, and none of them have been touched. I decided to just call it a day and come home to relax and get those things done from here in the recliner. Its amazing that I cant find time to get things done, when I have nothing to do. I keep intending on taking a nap, and it doesnt happen. It just might right now.
Thats about all I have for now. A simple morning turned into a whirlwind of memorable moments. Plans are still in place for chemo starting next week, and radiation will continue for now.
Thanks again to everyone... friends and family. Everyone... I have spoke with people I havent seen or talked to in a while and thats a good thing. Its amazing how things just kind of fall in place, and the right people are their when you need them. I really cant say that enough, THANK YOU. This is indeed a very difficult time for me and my family, but I dont know how I could be any better prepared at the age of 29 than I am now with the people that I have surrounding me.
And TK, how about them Lions?
Sleept in til about 6:18 am, phone rings and we're up and at em. Chalk it up to the Kacynski's superb communication skills or lack there of, but some how there was a misunderstanding about when breakfast was coming into play for this mornings plans. Never the less I was up, did the morning routine of checking blood pressure, emptying the pill box marked "tues a.m." and on to the shower. Except one glich, the blood pressure. It was out of sight. Too high to mention here. I had to take a step back, call TK back and inform him that I needed a few mins to collect myself and get this under control. I did, and by 7:20 I see the yellowed lights of the infamous PT Cruiser rolling in the drive. I open the garage door, timing my shuffle just right to just slid under the door as it opens. TK opens the passenger door to the cruiser and Im greated by the sounds Iron Maiden's "Where Eagles Dare". My old man's Pt Cruiser is a fully equipped taxi service for me as of late. The list of accomodations just expanded with the addition of Sirius Satellite Radio and the station known as "The Boneyard"... a deep medley of classic rock's staple artists. The short trip's soundtrack was interupted only once by a sudden and severe coughing spout that my father acknowedges was from what he thinks is a swallowed mustach whisker. Thats why I love my dad.... a spades a spade, and he calls it like he sees it.
We get to Eric's cafe, my dads regular stop and a great place to eat breakfast, period. I order a platter that gives most 300lb plus men a run for their money, most leave with a to go bag. I had it gone by the time the coffee was refilled. A couple of cups of coffee later, we talked plans of building about 3-4 different versions of a hidden hinge setup on a 1932 Ford, solved a few of the worlds economic woes in between, and finally we were headed to radiation.
The radiation process is typically very short. I am usually in and out in about 20 min. Not today. I get there on time, loaded on the table, everything is set and in position. Just when its time to press the "start" button, everything goes dark and chaos insues. Apparently they had some power issues, but my 20 min session turned into me laying on a hard table still in position for over an hour. Not good for the sore back that I am there to relieve.
Keep in mind the blood pressure.
I meet with Dr. Espinoza on Tuesday's, he is my Radiation / Oncologist. We just make sure things are on track and we think they are, besides the fact that I am now 2 hours into an appointment that typically takes 15-20 min. There was some discussion as to what other doctors have going with me and I determine that I just have too many doctors, especially for 29 years old.
The drive home was littered with falling ice from trees that had TK white knuckled and grabbin' gears in between a few explitives, and let me remind you of the blood pressure.
I have had a list of about 10 simple things to get done over the past 3 weeks, and none of them have been touched. I decided to just call it a day and come home to relax and get those things done from here in the recliner. Its amazing that I cant find time to get things done, when I have nothing to do. I keep intending on taking a nap, and it doesnt happen. It just might right now.
Thats about all I have for now. A simple morning turned into a whirlwind of memorable moments. Plans are still in place for chemo starting next week, and radiation will continue for now.
Thanks again to everyone... friends and family. Everyone... I have spoke with people I havent seen or talked to in a while and thats a good thing. Its amazing how things just kind of fall in place, and the right people are their when you need them. I really cant say that enough, THANK YOU. This is indeed a very difficult time for me and my family, but I dont know how I could be any better prepared at the age of 29 than I am now with the people that I have surrounding me.
And TK, how about them Lions?
Monday, February 22, 2010
Little help...
16 across "Limb in front" _ o _ e_ _ _ _
(UPDATE - FORELIMB is the answer, ha... thanks for the calls and emails!)
This is the toughest crossword puzzle I have stumbled upon in a while. You get used to a certain type of clue, ala the Herald-Palladium... then through this book from Walgreen's in the mix and I'm besides myself. I have been on the same puzzle for two day, humbling to say the least.
There is no way I can express how much I appreciate the family, friends and neighbors who have come to lend a hand to my family and I. I cant imagine going through this any other way.
Our pesonal email is sgmk8081@comcast.net if you need to get a hold of us through something other than the public comment on here. ALSO, to comment on here, you simply just click the "pencil" or "comment" icon and fill in the form at the bottom. You dont have to be a "follower". To be a follower you have to have a certain email account thats associated with this blogs format, which I dont even have.
(UPDATE - FORELIMB is the answer, ha... thanks for the calls and emails!)
This is the toughest crossword puzzle I have stumbled upon in a while. You get used to a certain type of clue, ala the Herald-Palladium... then through this book from Walgreen's in the mix and I'm besides myself. I have been on the same puzzle for two day, humbling to say the least.
There is no way I can express how much I appreciate the family, friends and neighbors who have come to lend a hand to my family and I. I cant imagine going through this any other way.
Our pesonal email is sgmk8081@comcast.net if you need to get a hold of us through something other than the public comment on here. ALSO, to comment on here, you simply just click the "pencil" or "comment" icon and fill in the form at the bottom. You dont have to be a "follower". To be a follower you have to have a certain email account thats associated with this blogs format, which I dont even have.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Lazy Sunday
A lot of great sports action on the television this sunday afternoon and evening. Planning on getting real familiar with this recliner and remote.
Back to radiation bright and early tomorrow... good solid week of radiation, then on to chemo. Looking forward to progress. Once again, I feel better today than yesterday, and I wasnt sure if that was going to be the case. We had a big day out and about yesterday.
Once again, lots of support today, good company... good food. Thank you everyone!
Back to radiation bright and early tomorrow... good solid week of radiation, then on to chemo. Looking forward to progress. Once again, I feel better today than yesterday, and I wasnt sure if that was going to be the case. We had a big day out and about yesterday.
Once again, lots of support today, good company... good food. Thank you everyone!
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