Daniel was able to take Monica to the Cancer Agency today allowing Greg to work a full day. Monica and Daniel are both enjoying their time together and it is good that Daniel is able to see first hand what she is going through with the treatments. Today, Monica had to have her weekly blood tests to ensure that she continues to do ok.
Monica may be experiencing one of the first real side effects of the radiation. She has noticed some occasional blurring in her left eye and reported it to the technicians. The family went for a walk on the Fraser Foreshore at the foot of Kerr St. in Vancouver (where there is quite a development taking place and which is a very nice walk) last night. Monica seemed to be having a harder time with her left foot. She may have been a bit tired or perhaps it is another effect of the radiation but we will have to watch this more closely. ( In any event, it is an unhappy reminder of her situation in an otherwise pleasant and happy day.)
Greg found a cookbook of Monica's written by John Bishop called "Cooking at Home". The recipes look to be fabulous (but maybe a bit rich).Greg was able to play with one of the recipes and we enjoyed a tasty and healthy "Lentil Hot Pot" seasoned with and Indian spice, Garam Masala.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Another round of appointments today: Monica had her radiation at 2:00 p.m. Following the radiation, she had an appointment with the radiation oncologist. He was pleased with how things are going. We like this doctor but unfortunately he will be going on paternity leave for the next 3 months so we will be having a new physician.
Daniel sat in on the appointment. (He is getting a fast-trac lesson on the Cancer Agency.)
Before Monica's appointment, Greg took part in the first interview in a UBC study on the effects of brain tumours on caregivers. It was an interesting interview. They will be tracking Greg's physical condition through Monica's treatment. For three days, Greg has to take saliva samples every couple of hours (somehow they can measure stress this way).
Jesse and Monica took Daniel out for a visit with Oma and Opa this evening.
Daniel sat in on the appointment. (He is getting a fast-trac lesson on the Cancer Agency.)
Before Monica's appointment, Greg took part in the first interview in a UBC study on the effects of brain tumours on caregivers. It was an interesting interview. They will be tracking Greg's physical condition through Monica's treatment. For three days, Greg has to take saliva samples every couple of hours (somehow they can measure stress this way).
Jesse and Monica took Daniel out for a visit with Oma and Opa this evening.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Greg worked in the morning and Monica had some good time with Daniel (they were working together on an on-line photo book.).
Greg and Daniel took Monica to her 3:00 p.m. radiation meeting. The technicians gave Daniel a tour, explained the process to him and allowed him to take some photos.
After the radiation, we went first to Finlandia Drugs on Broadway to re-stock our supplement supply and then went to the Granville Island Market to get some fresh Spelt Bread and more organic fruit and vegetables.
Monica seemed to weather the radiation and chemotherapy today quite well.
Greg and Daniel took Monica to her 3:00 p.m. radiation meeting. The technicians gave Daniel a tour, explained the process to him and allowed him to take some photos.
After the radiation, we went first to Finlandia Drugs on Broadway to re-stock our supplement supply and then went to the Granville Island Market to get some fresh Spelt Bread and more organic fruit and vegetables.
Monica seemed to weather the radiation and chemotherapy today quite well.
Sunday, June 26 , 2011
A nice Sunday started with whole-wheat pancakes and organic maple syrup. Greg went to work for a few hours and Monica went on a cleanning spree in anticipation of Daniel's arrival. She did a lot of vacuuming and laundry and probably overdid it a bit as she was quite tired.
After an early evening visit with Oma and Opa, Greg, Marley and Monica took dinner (caesar salad and organic chicken breasts) to Ingo's. Ingo had driven to Bellingham and picked up Daniel at the airport their. So, we had a nice dinner with Daniel.
After an early evening visit with Oma and Opa, Greg, Marley and Monica took dinner (caesar salad and organic chicken breasts) to Ingo's. Ingo had driven to Bellingham and picked up Daniel at the airport their. So, we had a nice dinner with Daniel.
Saturday, June 24, 2011
A quiet day at home. Monica had no radiation today but continued with the chemotherapy. The anti-nausea medicine did its jog again (Yay!). Ingo came by for dinner (soup from the organic chicken) and brought some fresh-caught crabs which he cooked and taught Marley to shuck.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Friday, June 23, 2011
Not much to report today. Monica had her 7th radiation treatment today and picked up the chemo which she will need for the next week (they only re-fill it if her blood tests from Thursday come back ok- apparently they did.
The anti-nausea medicine continues to work well and that is a real bonus. So, even though Monica is tired she is able to eat well and enjoy a reasonable level of activity.She made a brief visit to the office on her way home from the Cancer Agency and started supper. Monica's brother Ingo came over dinner and we had a nice home-made chicken soup and chicken wraps (the organic whole chicken was $17.50). Ingo had brought his new German Shepherd puppy to visit as well, so after dinner we all walked to a near-by dog park and watched Allie play.
Moncia, Ingo, Greg and Jesse played a couple of games of Sequence when we got home (while Organic Marley made some kale chips- they don't sound good but you develop a taste for them)
The anti-nausea medicine continues to work well and that is a real bonus. So, even though Monica is tired she is able to eat well and enjoy a reasonable level of activity.She made a brief visit to the office on her way home from the Cancer Agency and started supper. Monica's brother Ingo came over dinner and we had a nice home-made chicken soup and chicken wraps (the organic whole chicken was $17.50). Ingo had brought his new German Shepherd puppy to visit as well, so after dinner we all walked to a near-by dog park and watched Allie play.
Moncia, Ingo, Greg and Jesse played a couple of games of Sequence when we got home (while Organic Marley made some kale chips- they don't sound good but you develop a taste for them)
Friday, June 24, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Today was a busier day again. Monica had a follow up appointment with her surgeon, Dr. Heran. He seemed genuinely pleased with a number of things: how she looked, her speech, the fact that she has not yet had to take any steroids. We had a pleasant (mostly) discussion with him. He told us that we would not likely be seeing him again but that we were free to call him should we see the need to do so (the unpleasant part : At some point,statistics say, the tumour will return and should it grow into a problem, more radiation in the future will not be an option and the only options would, possibly, be more chemotherapy which they sometimes do or, in some cases, some more surgery.).
Following the visit to Dr. Heran, Greg and Monica made a stop at Choices to replenish the groceries and bought some lunch at a vegetarian restaurant.
In the afternoon Monica's appointment for the radiation was at 2:10. Before doing that she had to go to the lab and have a blood test (which they do each week before renewing her chemotherapy drugs). Everything went well and Greg was able to go to work for a couple of hours.
Jesse, Marely and Monica prepared a nice organic Greek salad for supper and we boiled an organic chicken to make soup etc for the next couple of days.
Happily again, the anti-nausea medicine did its job and Monica felt tired but otherwise well
Following the visit to Dr. Heran, Greg and Monica made a stop at Choices to replenish the groceries and bought some lunch at a vegetarian restaurant.
In the afternoon Monica's appointment for the radiation was at 2:10. Before doing that she had to go to the lab and have a blood test (which they do each week before renewing her chemotherapy drugs). Everything went well and Greg was able to go to work for a couple of hours.
Jesse, Marely and Monica prepared a nice organic Greek salad for supper and we boiled an organic chicken to make soup etc for the next couple of days.
Happily again, the anti-nausea medicine did its job and Monica felt tired but otherwise well
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Happily, the new anti-nausea medicine seems to be doing its job. Monica felt better today (vis-a-vis the nausea) and was able to eat and drink properly all day. She was also up to doing a bit of shopping on Tuesday night.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Monica felt pretty good this morning (before the chemo) and ate a fairly good breakfast (steel cut oats with blueberries, banana, walnuts and cinnamon, organic grapefruit and a slice of whole grain toast). While Greg worked in the morning, Marley and Monica went to the Cancer Agency.
Marley partook in a research study which is studying how the stress of a brain tumour diagnosis affects caregivers. She was interviewed for nearly an hour and had her blood pressure taken several times. As well, they gave her swabs which she needs to use to take saliva samples (they can use these to test for stress somehow) over a period of six days. They will follow-up with her several times over the following months. Greg has volunteered as well and will be interviewed next week.
Meanwhile, Monica went to a presentation on make-up and hairstyling with an emphasis on how cancer patients can deal with their appearance when it suffers from the treatment. She seemed to enjoy the course.
Greg took the skytrain and the Broadway 99 bus (which combo only took 30 minutes from Royal Oak Station) to the Cancer Agency for lunch and met Marley and Monica who were picnicing on the lawn in front.
Monica's radiation treatment was set for 1:20. As they were running behind schedule, we had a chance to visit with 3 other cancer patients who were also waiting. One of the three was a friend who we have known for a several years. It was interesting to share stories and experiences with these other patients. It may have been my imagination but you could almost sense a bond forming among the 4 patients as they discussed their common and yet different experiences.
One of the patients was an upbeat 18 yrs old university student. He had suddenly discovered he had a brain tumour while studying last November at SFU. A month later he woke up on his birthday in the hospital having had an operation to remove this tumour. Initially, he was told that the tumour was benign and then told a couple of weeks later that some cancer was found. He has had strong chemo treatments and has been recently undergoing radiation on his head and spine. He was very upbeat and positive. He felt like cancer had changed his life (in terms of priorities) and he has changed his career goals accordingly. He now wants to be a nurse so that he can help others recover. It was quite touching to meet him and to reflect his situation.
The waiting room outside Station 4 (the machine where Monica goes for treatment) is very nicely appointed. One nice touch is a large table with a jigsaw puzzle on it. Monica has worked on this puzzle every day and today it was a focal point for this group of 4 patients as they chatted.
Monica's radiation went well. Greg timed the treatments. Monica is alone in the room for only about 7 minutes after her mask is bolted to the couch. The technicians use 3 - 4 minutes to take x-rays to confirm that she and the machine are still properly aligned and use the rest of the time to administer 7doses of radiation.
After the radiation today Monica was seen by the radiation oncologist. This visit was very useful as we had a chance to really discuss Monica's ongoing problems with nausea. As a result, the doctor prescribed a stronger anti-nausea drug for Monica and gave her one pill right there. The doctor was very accommodating. He answered all of the questions we had accumulated, gave us a copy of the plot for the radiation treatments and showed us how Monica's tumour looked on the CTscan done following the operation. He showed us where the surgeon had operated etc.
By the time she got home, Monica was feeling much better (in terms of the nausea). At the time of writing this blog (7:51 p.m.) Monica is still feeling well. She was able to sit and read on the patio while her private chef (Organic Greg) prepared a salmon dinner with caesar salad (organic romaine lettuce), pickled beets (from Oma), homemade tsatziki (organic cucumbers), and organic new potatoes cooked with fresh mint from the garden. We are all (Monica included) pretty happy that she was able to eat a good meal and to relax a bit. Let's hope that the new medication keeps working like this!
Marley partook in a research study which is studying how the stress of a brain tumour diagnosis affects caregivers. She was interviewed for nearly an hour and had her blood pressure taken several times. As well, they gave her swabs which she needs to use to take saliva samples (they can use these to test for stress somehow) over a period of six days. They will follow-up with her several times over the following months. Greg has volunteered as well and will be interviewed next week.
Meanwhile, Monica went to a presentation on make-up and hairstyling with an emphasis on how cancer patients can deal with their appearance when it suffers from the treatment. She seemed to enjoy the course.
Greg took the skytrain and the Broadway 99 bus (which combo only took 30 minutes from Royal Oak Station) to the Cancer Agency for lunch and met Marley and Monica who were picnicing on the lawn in front.
Monica's radiation treatment was set for 1:20. As they were running behind schedule, we had a chance to visit with 3 other cancer patients who were also waiting. One of the three was a friend who we have known for a several years. It was interesting to share stories and experiences with these other patients. It may have been my imagination but you could almost sense a bond forming among the 4 patients as they discussed their common and yet different experiences.
One of the patients was an upbeat 18 yrs old university student. He had suddenly discovered he had a brain tumour while studying last November at SFU. A month later he woke up on his birthday in the hospital having had an operation to remove this tumour. Initially, he was told that the tumour was benign and then told a couple of weeks later that some cancer was found. He has had strong chemo treatments and has been recently undergoing radiation on his head and spine. He was very upbeat and positive. He felt like cancer had changed his life (in terms of priorities) and he has changed his career goals accordingly. He now wants to be a nurse so that he can help others recover. It was quite touching to meet him and to reflect his situation.
The waiting room outside Station 4 (the machine where Monica goes for treatment) is very nicely appointed. One nice touch is a large table with a jigsaw puzzle on it. Monica has worked on this puzzle every day and today it was a focal point for this group of 4 patients as they chatted.
Monica's radiation went well. Greg timed the treatments. Monica is alone in the room for only about 7 minutes after her mask is bolted to the couch. The technicians use 3 - 4 minutes to take x-rays to confirm that she and the machine are still properly aligned and use the rest of the time to administer 7doses of radiation.
After the radiation today Monica was seen by the radiation oncologist. This visit was very useful as we had a chance to really discuss Monica's ongoing problems with nausea. As a result, the doctor prescribed a stronger anti-nausea drug for Monica and gave her one pill right there. The doctor was very accommodating. He answered all of the questions we had accumulated, gave us a copy of the plot for the radiation treatments and showed us how Monica's tumour looked on the CTscan done following the operation. He showed us where the surgeon had operated etc.
By the time she got home, Monica was feeling much better (in terms of the nausea). At the time of writing this blog (7:51 p.m.) Monica is still feeling well. She was able to sit and read on the patio while her private chef (Organic Greg) prepared a salmon dinner with caesar salad (organic romaine lettuce), pickled beets (from Oma), homemade tsatziki (organic cucumbers), and organic new potatoes cooked with fresh mint from the garden. We are all (Monica included) pretty happy that she was able to eat a good meal and to relax a bit. Let's hope that the new medication keeps working like this!
Monday, June 20, 2011
Monday, June 21, 2011
Once again Monica felt not too bad in the morning. As a member of InspireHealth Monica can have some (6 I think) free accupuncture treatments. We were able to get her in for an accupuncture treatment about 2 and 1/2 hours before the 3:35 p.m. radiation treatment. She seemed to enjoy it and was feeling reasonably well.
After taking another anti-nausea pill, Greg and Monica went to Granville Island for a walk and to buy some organic produce (they had a good selection there.). Some of the seafood smells were bothering Monica, so she sat and watched a busker while Greg shopped. At 2:35 p.m. she took the daily dose of chemo and we headed off to the Cancer Agency for the radiation treatment.
Jesse met us at the Cancer Agency and helped Monica with the jigsaw in the waiting room (an ongoing project).
When we got home, Monica sat on the patio in the fresh air while we cooked supper. Eventually she went to lay down as she started to feel worse and was bothered again by some of the cooking smells. (We were deliberately trying to avoid making strong smells tonight but either the chemo is making her more sensitive or the radiation is giving super smelling - to go with the super hearing she seemed to get from the operation- she hears everything and now she smells everything). She has not really thrown up this evening but is lying in bed and not feeling too well. We have been pretty careful with giving her timely doses of gravol and anti-nausea medicine today but she still seems to have a bad period after taking the chemo. She got up around 9:00 p.m. but is still not feeling great.
Tomorrow we have a scheduled appointment with the oncologist. We plan on discussing the nausea with him to see if he has any suggestions (i.e. different medicine). Monica and Marley are going to the Cancer Agency in the morning for a free session on "hair and make-up". While she is there, Marley is going for her initial interview in the caregiver study that her and Greg have volunteered for.
After taking another anti-nausea pill, Greg and Monica went to Granville Island for a walk and to buy some organic produce (they had a good selection there.). Some of the seafood smells were bothering Monica, so she sat and watched a busker while Greg shopped. At 2:35 p.m. she took the daily dose of chemo and we headed off to the Cancer Agency for the radiation treatment.
Jesse met us at the Cancer Agency and helped Monica with the jigsaw in the waiting room (an ongoing project).
When we got home, Monica sat on the patio in the fresh air while we cooked supper. Eventually she went to lay down as she started to feel worse and was bothered again by some of the cooking smells. (We were deliberately trying to avoid making strong smells tonight but either the chemo is making her more sensitive or the radiation is giving super smelling - to go with the super hearing she seemed to get from the operation- she hears everything and now she smells everything). She has not really thrown up this evening but is lying in bed and not feeling too well. We have been pretty careful with giving her timely doses of gravol and anti-nausea medicine today but she still seems to have a bad period after taking the chemo. She got up around 9:00 p.m. but is still not feeling great.
Tomorrow we have a scheduled appointment with the oncologist. We plan on discussing the nausea with him to see if he has any suggestions (i.e. different medicine). Monica and Marley are going to the Cancer Agency in the morning for a free session on "hair and make-up". While she is there, Marley is going for her initial interview in the caregiver study that her and Greg have volunteered for.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Monica continues to struggle with becoming nauseous from the chemotherapy. She felt fairly good in the morning and was able to eat a reasonable breakfast. After taking the chemo, she didn't feel as well in the afternoon and got nauseous when Greg cooked some soup. Later in the evening she felt a little better and was able to eat some of the turkey noodle soup.
We were more aggressive today with the anti-nausea medicine. It seemed to help as the total amount of time she was feeling ill was reduced. We will probably try to do more tomorrow.
Jesse and Marley were able to visit Opa to pass along Father's Day wishes but Monica was not up to going so her and Greg stayed home (with the new salad spinner he got for Father's Day this year in keeping with the year).
We were more aggressive today with the anti-nausea medicine. It seemed to help as the total amount of time she was feeling ill was reduced. We will probably try to do more tomorrow.
Jesse and Marley were able to visit Opa to pass along Father's Day wishes but Monica was not up to going so her and Greg stayed home (with the new salad spinner he got for Father's Day this year in keeping with the year).
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Monica had been feeling sick last night but had a good night's sleep. She felt pretty good this morning and had a pretty good breakfast. No radiation today but following breakfast she took her anti-nausea pill and then later her daily chemo dose. She went with Jesse and Greg to the Trout Lake Farmer's market where we got in a bit of a walk and bought some organic fruit, some plants, fresh bread and some organic turkey.
Unfortunately, by the time we got home Monica was starting to feel quite naueous and spent most of the afternoon and early evening feeling ill. On the advice of the nurse at the Cancer Agency hotline, we got some gravol to supplement the anti-nausea medicine and shortened the time between pills. Later in the evening, Monica felt well enough to get up, watch some T.V. with us and eat a bit of dinner.
We are going to work hard tomorrow to try to keep Monica sufficiently medicated with the gravol and the other medicine so that we can minimize the time that she feels ill. Otherwise, it will be a long 6 weeks.
During Monica's time in the hospital for the operation, we met another family going through a similar situation. In that case the wife (who had been holding down a full-time job as late as March 1st) was diagnosed with the same type and grade of tumour. Greg and that lady's husband have connected by email and are exchanging information/experiences. She is about 1 week further into a similar treatment regimen and, while tired, is having no problems with the nausea. Greg and her husband hope to meet for coffee next weekend.
Good news today- it looks like Daniel will be able to get away for a visit home from June 26th to July 1st. We are looking forward to seeing him.
Unfortunately, by the time we got home Monica was starting to feel quite naueous and spent most of the afternoon and early evening feeling ill. On the advice of the nurse at the Cancer Agency hotline, we got some gravol to supplement the anti-nausea medicine and shortened the time between pills. Later in the evening, Monica felt well enough to get up, watch some T.V. with us and eat a bit of dinner.
We are going to work hard tomorrow to try to keep Monica sufficiently medicated with the gravol and the other medicine so that we can minimize the time that she feels ill. Otherwise, it will be a long 6 weeks.
During Monica's time in the hospital for the operation, we met another family going through a similar situation. In that case the wife (who had been holding down a full-time job as late as March 1st) was diagnosed with the same type and grade of tumour. Greg and that lady's husband have connected by email and are exchanging information/experiences. She is about 1 week further into a similar treatment regimen and, while tired, is having no problems with the nausea. Greg and her husband hope to meet for coffee next weekend.
Good news today- it looks like Daniel will be able to get away for a visit home from June 26th to July 1st. We are looking forward to seeing him.
2nd Day of Treatments - June 17, 2011
Monica felt fine in the morning and spent the morning at home with Marley. Greg and Jesse took her for her second round of treatments in the afternoon. Today the procedure went very smoothly. We waited only about 10 minutes for the treatment and the treatment itself only took about 10 minutes.
The doctor wants Monica to have her eyes open during the radiation (not sure of the reason but I think there is less risk of damage?). The technologists had made some adjustments to Monica's radiation mask so that she could open her eyes (otherwise it was so tight that she couldn't open them). Unfortunately, with the adjustments Monica found the mask to be more uncomfortable. They are going to play with the mask a bit for next time but it is important that it not be made so loose that her head will move and so they will not want to do much.
Once again Monica was very calm and brave through the process. The technologists let us go in the room again and patiently showed/explained things to Jesse who had not been present for the first treatment.
Unfortunately, Monica started to feel quite nauseous around dinnertime and felt quite bad through the evening. The cookng smells of dinner seemed to trigger the nausea. She went to bed early and fell to sleep quickly.
Our plan for tomorrow is to be a little more careful to make sure that she is properly medicated with the anti-nausea medicine.
The doctor wants Monica to have her eyes open during the radiation (not sure of the reason but I think there is less risk of damage?). The technologists had made some adjustments to Monica's radiation mask so that she could open her eyes (otherwise it was so tight that she couldn't open them). Unfortunately, with the adjustments Monica found the mask to be more uncomfortable. They are going to play with the mask a bit for next time but it is important that it not be made so loose that her head will move and so they will not want to do much.
Once again Monica was very calm and brave through the process. The technologists let us go in the room again and patiently showed/explained things to Jesse who had not been present for the first treatment.
Unfortunately, Monica started to feel quite nauseous around dinnertime and felt quite bad through the evening. The cookng smells of dinner seemed to trigger the nausea. She went to bed early and fell to sleep quickly.
Our plan for tomorrow is to be a little more careful to make sure that she is properly medicated with the anti-nausea medicine.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Monica had her first set of treatments today. She had to take an anti-nausea pill at 1:00 p.m. while we were on our way to the Cancer Agency. On arrival we reported to the Pharmacy on the 6th floor and were given the chemo. Monica then took the chemo at 2:00 p.m. The pharmacist (like virtually all of the staff at the Cancer Agency was very helpful).
Just before 3:00 p.m. a radiation therapist met with us and carefully explained what would be transpiring with the radiation. He patiently answered all of our questions and spoke to us about some of the possible side effects.
At 3:00 p.m. we were taken into Radiation Unit No. 4. Greg and Marley were allowed to accompany Monica and to hear all of the advice/explanations being given to Monica. Monica had to put on her mask and the mask was secured to the radiation couch so that her head would not move during the radiation. Marley and Greg were impressed by how calm and brave Monica was. (We were probably more nervous than her.)
Greg and Marley were allowed to be with the radiation technicians while they administered the radiation. We could watch Monica on the monitors and observe every thing the machine did. The machine itself is amazing to watch and incredible in its accuracy. Monica was alone in the room for only about 5 minutes and during that time she received 7 separate "doses" of radiation to different places.
We go back tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. for another session. At that time we will get the schedule for next week's treatments. On June 23rd (the same day that we have the follow up appointment with the suregon), Monica will have to have her blood tested (to check her white blood cells and platelets). Only after they have checked her blood is the chemo for the following week given to us. If her count of white blood cells or platelets is too low, her status is checked by the physician before the next batch is given out. Monica will be susceptible to infections and bleeding if those counts drop too low.
As at the time of writing this blog, Monica seems to be feeling pretty good and is enjoying the book Ingo left for us ( She has always been a bit of a bookworm and it is good to see her enjoying reading again as she hadn't done much of this since this whole thing started.). She has also been a bit more emotional in the last few days and seems generally stronger (I think she continues to recover from the operation).
One aspect of Monica's character is her "stick-to-it-iveness" once she takes on a job. We are quite happy because she seems to be not only approaching the treatments this way but also applying this modus operandi to all of the health/diet/supplement suggestions she has been given. She is methodically taking everything she is supposed to take and following Marley's checklist.
Just before 3:00 p.m. a radiation therapist met with us and carefully explained what would be transpiring with the radiation. He patiently answered all of our questions and spoke to us about some of the possible side effects.
At 3:00 p.m. we were taken into Radiation Unit No. 4. Greg and Marley were allowed to accompany Monica and to hear all of the advice/explanations being given to Monica. Monica had to put on her mask and the mask was secured to the radiation couch so that her head would not move during the radiation. Marley and Greg were impressed by how calm and brave Monica was. (We were probably more nervous than her.)
Greg and Marley were allowed to be with the radiation technicians while they administered the radiation. We could watch Monica on the monitors and observe every thing the machine did. The machine itself is amazing to watch and incredible in its accuracy. Monica was alone in the room for only about 5 minutes and during that time she received 7 separate "doses" of radiation to different places.
We go back tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. for another session. At that time we will get the schedule for next week's treatments. On June 23rd (the same day that we have the follow up appointment with the suregon), Monica will have to have her blood tested (to check her white blood cells and platelets). Only after they have checked her blood is the chemo for the following week given to us. If her count of white blood cells or platelets is too low, her status is checked by the physician before the next batch is given out. Monica will be susceptible to infections and bleeding if those counts drop too low.
As at the time of writing this blog, Monica seems to be feeling pretty good and is enjoying the book Ingo left for us ( She has always been a bit of a bookworm and it is good to see her enjoying reading again as she hadn't done much of this since this whole thing started.). She has also been a bit more emotional in the last few days and seems generally stronger (I think she continues to recover from the operation).
One aspect of Monica's character is her "stick-to-it-iveness" once she takes on a job. We are quite happy because she seems to be not only approaching the treatments this way but also applying this modus operandi to all of the health/diet/supplement suggestions she has been given. She is methodically taking everything she is supposed to take and following Marley's checklist.
Wednesday - June 15, 2011
A pretty quiet day (assuming you don't count the Canucks' loss and riot downtown).
We have been trying to meditate each night and become more aware of how our bodies are feeling. It was very noticeable that we couldn't meditate and that watching the news about the riot had us all more upset than we might have realized.
We have been trying to meditate each night and become more aware of how our bodies are feeling. It was very noticeable that we couldn't meditate and that watching the news about the riot had us all more upset than we might have realized.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
June 14, 2011
Another fairly quiet, family day. Monica did some shopping and banking with Jesse. A nice organic dinner with a few new recipes was followed by a couple of family games.
The appointment for the start of treatments was confirmed for 3:00 p.m. Thursday (gulp! - another dose of reality). The appointment schedule for next week will be given to us on Friday.
The appointment for the start of treatments was confirmed for 3:00 p.m. Thursday (gulp! - another dose of reality). The appointment schedule for next week will be given to us on Friday.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Monday- June 13, 2011
Greg went to work today. A fairly quiet day for Monica. Some shopping - she bought some walking sticks to help with her walking (i.e. to improve her balance and give her some upper body exercise when walking.)
No news from the Cancer Agency. We are still waiting for confirmation of the times for the radiation/chemotherapy.
No news from the Cancer Agency. We are still waiting for confirmation of the times for the radiation/chemotherapy.
June 10, 2011 to June 12, 2011
Sorry for the delay in posting. Greg had inadvertently saved the June 9 blog in draft form. It has been posted and these 3 days are being summarized in this one blog.
June 10 - Greg worked most of the day. Monica and Marley entertained friends from the staff of GBC Law who came over at noon and had a nice lunch and visit with Monica.
Ingo came over in the evening and we enjoyed a organic stir-fry while we also enjoyed (even more) watching the Canucks game
June 11, 2011- A nice normal (more like the "old normal") day at home. Greg worked in the yard getting the yard and patio more comfortable and ready to use once the weather improves. Monica spent quite a bit of time washing her car zen style ("wax on, wax off") (organic joke). Jesse, Marley, Greg and Monica had a late dinner and went to bed early.
June 12, 2011
Greg and Monica got up early and went for a nice long walk on at Foreshore park in Burnaby, The weather was great and the walk relaxing. On the way home we picked up the ingredients for breakfast (including whole wheat pancakes).
For a lot of the rest of the day, we prepared some good soups which we could use during the week to create a quick meal when we get short of time.
Pat and Joyce dropped by for a nice visit in the late afternoon
The evening was spent wig shopping. Monica's hairdresser, Anna, took her to a lady's home in Delta where we looked at wigs for an hour and a half. With Anna's help Monica purchased a nice wig which Anna and Monica will work with more later in the week. After a brief visit with Oma and Opa we returned home.
Monica is working hard to follow the InspireHealth physicians recommendations. Marley has Monica following a detailed check list to make sure we are taking everything at the right time. Tomorrow we will buy the rest of the pills we need in anticipation of the commencement of treatments (the dates for the treatments haven't been confirmed yet- we expect to hear on Monday or Tuesday for commencement on Thursday.)
June 10 - Greg worked most of the day. Monica and Marley entertained friends from the staff of GBC Law who came over at noon and had a nice lunch and visit with Monica.
Ingo came over in the evening and we enjoyed a organic stir-fry while we also enjoyed (even more) watching the Canucks game
June 11, 2011- A nice normal (more like the "old normal") day at home. Greg worked in the yard getting the yard and patio more comfortable and ready to use once the weather improves. Monica spent quite a bit of time washing her car zen style ("wax on, wax off") (organic joke). Jesse, Marley, Greg and Monica had a late dinner and went to bed early.
June 12, 2011
Greg and Monica got up early and went for a nice long walk on at Foreshore park in Burnaby, The weather was great and the walk relaxing. On the way home we picked up the ingredients for breakfast (including whole wheat pancakes).
For a lot of the rest of the day, we prepared some good soups which we could use during the week to create a quick meal when we get short of time.
Pat and Joyce dropped by for a nice visit in the late afternoon
The evening was spent wig shopping. Monica's hairdresser, Anna, took her to a lady's home in Delta where we looked at wigs for an hour and a half. With Anna's help Monica purchased a nice wig which Anna and Monica will work with more later in the week. After a brief visit with Oma and Opa we returned home.
Monica is working hard to follow the InspireHealth physicians recommendations. Marley has Monica following a detailed check list to make sure we are taking everything at the right time. Tomorrow we will buy the rest of the pills we need in anticipation of the commencement of treatments (the dates for the treatments haven't been confirmed yet- we expect to hear on Monday or Tuesday for commencement on Thursday.)
Thursday, June 9, 2011
June 9, 2011 - Visit to InspireHealth
Monica (accompanied by Greg and Marley) had her 1 and 1\2 hour session (which turned out to be nearly 2 hours) with the physician at InspireHealth today. It was a very positive session. The doctor took her time getting to know Monica and getting a full history from Monica. She also took quite a bit of time reviewing the seven day log (which we had compiled) outlining all of Monica's eating, sleeping, drinking and relaxation habits. The Dr. was fairly happy with the efforts we had been making but made some suggestions for improvement.
As the meeting progressed, the Doctor worked with us to prepare a plan for how Monica can deal with the radiation/chemo treatments and the cancer itself. Some of the highlights:
- 8-10 glasses of water per day
- no alcohol
- lots of vegetables with deep green colours
-unsweetened almond milk instead of milk
-minimal dairy products - using goat cheese instead where it is used
-little or no refined sugars
-Miso soup
-exercise: walking and tai chi
-meditation
-regular Breathing exercises to relax
-fish oil supplements
-vitamin D supplements
-special multi vitamin
-some herbs to help with nausea should it occure
-melatonin
-ruta and calcphos pellets
-Bosmellia
We will see her again in the fall for an individual session and plan on attending a group session with the same doctor.
The Doctor also wants Monica to spend some time thinking about what brings her joy, passion/ spirit etc.
Overall we were very happy with the meeting and with the staff/setup at InspireHealth.
As the meeting progressed, the Doctor worked with us to prepare a plan for how Monica can deal with the radiation/chemo treatments and the cancer itself. Some of the highlights:
- 8-10 glasses of water per day
- no alcohol
- lots of vegetables with deep green colours
-unsweetened almond milk instead of milk
-minimal dairy products - using goat cheese instead where it is used
-little or no refined sugars
-Miso soup
-exercise: walking and tai chi
-meditation
-regular Breathing exercises to relax
-fish oil supplements
-vitamin D supplements
-special multi vitamin
-some herbs to help with nausea should it occure
-melatonin
-ruta and calcphos pellets
-Bosmellia
We will see her again in the fall for an individual session and plan on attending a group session with the same doctor.
The Doctor also wants Monica to spend some time thinking about what brings her joy, passion/ spirit etc.
Overall we were very happy with the meeting and with the staff/setup at InspireHealth.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
June 8, 2011
Thinking about the possibility of losing hair following the radiation, Monica had a visit to her favourite hairdresser today and got her hair cut short. The new look is great! During the radiation she has to be careful how she treats her hair and scalp. So, yesterday she also bought some special, gentle shampoo at the health food store (they may soon know us by name!)
We had a meeting at the Cancer Agency today with the medical oncologist and another social worker (who we had met previously at the support group meeting). The oncologist carried out a neurological examination, discussed the tumour type with us and reviewed with us again the proposed course of treatment. The discussions were upbeat but are sobering as they remind us of the seriousness of the situation. (It's easy to forget the overall situation when Monica is feeling and looking as well as she does right now.)
Monica got the prescription for the "chemo". They also gave Monica prescriptions for two types of anti-nausea medicine (one strong one to be taken before the treatments begin and one to be taken before the "chemo". Before each radiation treatment, Monica has to take the anti-nausea medicine and the "chemo".
It is amazing how busy it is at the Cancer Agency. However, to the credit of the people who work there, they are unfailingly polite, friendly and understanding.
At this point, it looks like the first radiation treatment will be on June 16th.
Tomorrow we have the interview with the physician at Inspire Health.
We had a meeting at the Cancer Agency today with the medical oncologist and another social worker (who we had met previously at the support group meeting). The oncologist carried out a neurological examination, discussed the tumour type with us and reviewed with us again the proposed course of treatment. The discussions were upbeat but are sobering as they remind us of the seriousness of the situation. (It's easy to forget the overall situation when Monica is feeling and looking as well as she does right now.)
Monica got the prescription for the "chemo". They also gave Monica prescriptions for two types of anti-nausea medicine (one strong one to be taken before the treatments begin and one to be taken before the "chemo". Before each radiation treatment, Monica has to take the anti-nausea medicine and the "chemo".
It is amazing how busy it is at the Cancer Agency. However, to the credit of the people who work there, they are unfailingly polite, friendly and understanding.
At this point, it looks like the first radiation treatment will be on June 16th.
Tomorrow we have the interview with the physician at Inspire Health.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Tuesday - June 7, 2011
Monica joined Greg again this morning for a tai chi set before he went to work for most of the day. Monica, Jesse and Sydney (Jesse's girlfriend) went to Steveston to see if the tall ships were still open to the public. Even though they were one day late and missed the tall ships, they had a nice visit with Oma and Opa.
A nice surprise - Jesse and Sydney cooked a nice pasta dinner for all tonight. We then went downtown to see a very interesting film, "The First Grader"- a story about an 84 year old veteran of the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya who went back to school to learn to read and write.
Tomorrow Monica plans on getting her hair cut short in the morning. In the afternoon we have an appointment with the medical oncologist where we expect to told the ins and outs (gulp!) of the proposed chemotherapy.
A nice surprise - Jesse and Sydney cooked a nice pasta dinner for all tonight. We then went downtown to see a very interesting film, "The First Grader"- a story about an 84 year old veteran of the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya who went back to school to learn to read and write.
Tomorrow Monica plans on getting her hair cut short in the morning. In the afternoon we have an appointment with the medical oncologist where we expect to told the ins and outs (gulp!) of the proposed chemotherapy.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Monday - June 6, 2011
A good today which started with Greg and Monica getting up a little earlier than usual and doing a tai chi set together.
Monica had a regular physical with her family physician this morning. Monica is happy with her new doctor.
After the medical, Monica and Marley surprised everyone at GBC Law with a surprise visit to the office. The staff from the office arranged to come over for a lunchtime visit with Monica on Friday.
Following a lunch at home, Monica and Marley spent the afternoon together shopping. The family had a nice vegetarian supper and watched the Canucks get badly beaten.
Monica had a regular physical with her family physician this morning. Monica is happy with her new doctor.
After the medical, Monica and Marley surprised everyone at GBC Law with a surprise visit to the office. The staff from the office arranged to come over for a lunchtime visit with Monica on Friday.
Following a lunch at home, Monica and Marley spent the afternoon together shopping. The family had a nice vegetarian supper and watched the Canucks get badly beaten.
Sunday - June 5, 2011
A quiet day at home for all (except Jesse who went climbing. Monica, Greg and Marley had a nice evening visit with Oma and Opa.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Saturday- June 4, 2011
Jesse had his last exam today (a practical 8 -station test at Children's Hospital. He had to be at the exam at 8:15 so Monica and Greg drove him. After dropping Jesse off, Monica and Greg walked Granville Street around 12th Avenue and discovered Meinhardts (a wonderful upscale Market at Granville and 14th). After wandering around Meinhardts, we shared a green tea at Starbucks.
At 9:00 a.m. we went to Van Dusen Gardens and used the memberships which we bought through Groupon for the first time. We really enjoyed the Gardens. It was early and quiet and relaxing. We took 10 minutes and meditated in the sun ( Vitamin D you know). The Gardens may be a good place to stop at on our way back and forth to the Cancer Agency.
After picking up Jesse, we all went to the Trout Lake Farmer's Market and purchased some goodies for lunch.
In the afternoon, Jesse finished turning the garden over and he and Greg began planting vegetables and herbs.
Ingo joined us to watch the hockey game and for another vegetarian (successful) experiment.
At 9:00 a.m. we went to Van Dusen Gardens and used the memberships which we bought through Groupon for the first time. We really enjoyed the Gardens. It was early and quiet and relaxing. We took 10 minutes and meditated in the sun ( Vitamin D you know). The Gardens may be a good place to stop at on our way back and forth to the Cancer Agency.
After picking up Jesse, we all went to the Trout Lake Farmer's Market and purchased some goodies for lunch.
In the afternoon, Jesse finished turning the garden over and he and Greg began planting vegetables and herbs.
Ingo joined us to watch the hockey game and for another vegetarian (successful) experiment.
June 3, 2011
A quiet day for Monica relaxing at home. Greg worked most of the day More organic cooking.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011 - Preparation for Radiation
Today Monica spent most of the day at the Cancer Agency. After routine bloodwork, she had a plastic mask fitted/moulded to her face. The procedure went very well. The technicians were very helpful , considerate and informative. The mask fits very close to Monica's face and will be used to hold her head still while the radiation takes place.
Following the making of the mask, it was used for the first time while she had a CTscan and the mask was marked by the technicians so that they can calibrate the radiation.
In the late afternoon, Monica had another MRI (which, I think, is used along with the other scans etc to help the radiation oncologist plan the treatments).
At this point, we believe that the radiation will begin early in the week of June 13th
Following the making of the mask, it was used for the first time while she had a CTscan and the mask was marked by the technicians so that they can calibrate the radiation.
In the late afternoon, Monica had another MRI (which, I think, is used along with the other scans etc to help the radiation oncologist plan the treatments).
At this point, we believe that the radiation will begin early in the week of June 13th
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
June 1 - Support Group Meeting
Today, Monica, Greg and Marley attended a support group meeting at the Cancer Agency for persons with brain tumours and their caregivers. The meeting lasted about 1 1/2 hours. It was led by the social worker and had about 25 people in attendance including the head of one of the international organizations who was passing t through Vancouver from Australia on his way to a convention in Chicago.
The group was very friendly and welcoming. There was a wide range of people of all ages and from all walks of life. Many had different tumours than Monica. Some of the stories were very touching. It was interesting to listen to their experiences and the advice that they give one another.
All three of us (Monica especially) thought that it was very useful. Each of us took different things out of the session. I think we will be attending more of them (they are held monthly).
Tomorrow we go back to the Cancer Agency . Monica will have blood work, a CT scan, a MRI and will be fitted for the mask she will wear during the radiation.
Oh yes - Canucks 1 Bruins 0
The group was very friendly and welcoming. There was a wide range of people of all ages and from all walks of life. Many had different tumours than Monica. Some of the stories were very touching. It was interesting to listen to their experiences and the advice that they give one another.
All three of us (Monica especially) thought that it was very useful. Each of us took different things out of the session. I think we will be attending more of them (they are held monthly).
Tomorrow we go back to the Cancer Agency . Monica will have blood work, a CT scan, a MRI and will be fitted for the mask she will wear during the radiation.
Oh yes - Canucks 1 Bruins 0
May 31, 2011 - Let the Appointments Begin
"With God, every day is a day to hope for the very best--to believe our prayers are being heard, to have faith good news is on the way, and to know that anything can happen between yesterday and tomorrow." (From a card sent by Wayne, Evelyn and Family)
Monica, Greg and Marley are planning on attending a 2 hour support group meeting tomorrow at the Cancer Agency. On Thursday, Monica goes for blood work at 11:00 a.m., for a CT scan and have her mask made at 12:00 a.m and checks in at 4:00 pm for an 4:30 MRI scan.
On June 8th we meet the medical oncologist at 3:00 p.m. Our 1 1/2 hour meeting with the doctor at Inspire Health is scheduled for June 9th.
We hope to have a general physical done by Monica's new family physician. We are going to try to get a same day appointment next week-otherwise our appointment with her is for June 27th . On June 23 we have a surgery follow up meeting with the neurosurgeon.
In addition to the above, we expect the radiation (which will be 5 days a week for 6 weeks) and the chemotherapy (oral -7 days a week) to start on June 13th.
Monica, Greg and Marley are planning on attending a 2 hour support group meeting tomorrow at the Cancer Agency. On Thursday, Monica goes for blood work at 11:00 a.m., for a CT scan and have her mask made at 12:00 a.m and checks in at 4:00 pm for an 4:30 MRI scan.
On June 8th we meet the medical oncologist at 3:00 p.m. Our 1 1/2 hour meeting with the doctor at Inspire Health is scheduled for June 9th.
We hope to have a general physical done by Monica's new family physician. We are going to try to get a same day appointment next week-otherwise our appointment with her is for June 27th . On June 23 we have a surgery follow up meeting with the neurosurgeon.
In addition to the above, we expect the radiation (which will be 5 days a week for 6 weeks) and the chemotherapy (oral -7 days a week) to start on June 13th.
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