(posted by Greg)
Monica has been noticing that she has been increasingly losing her hair. So, this morning when she woke up she decided to shave off all her hair (partly to avoid the mess of it falling out and partly so that she can check (and treat if necessary) her skin. We all had a bit of a cry over this but she is determined to go ahead. As I am writing this blog, she is in the backyard and Marley is using the clippers on her hair.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
(posted by Greg).
Monica had her last radiation treatment yesterday. It's hard to believe that 6 weeks has gone by already. Feelings were kind of mixed as we left the radiation station on Thursday. We have become attached to the wonderful people there. We will miss them and the jigsaw puzzles. We brought a new jigsaw from home and left it with the others in the waiting area.
I am sure however that Monica won't miss the radiation treatments. They gave us her radiation mask to do with what we will (maybe blow it up? or use it next halloween?- take up hockey?)
Monica had her bloodwork done again on Thursday as well. Her platelets were still low but, because they are starting to show some improvement, she did not get another transfusion. We are to have her blood checked again on Tuesday to make sure that she doesn't require any further treatment.
It may be my imagination but its seems that Monica's energy level was already higher today. She didn't nap as much and was doing some sewing for Jesse.
Monica had her last radiation treatment yesterday. It's hard to believe that 6 weeks has gone by already. Feelings were kind of mixed as we left the radiation station on Thursday. We have become attached to the wonderful people there. We will miss them and the jigsaw puzzles. We brought a new jigsaw from home and left it with the others in the waiting area.
I am sure however that Monica won't miss the radiation treatments. They gave us her radiation mask to do with what we will (maybe blow it up? or use it next halloween?- take up hockey?)
Monica had her bloodwork done again on Thursday as well. Her platelets were still low but, because they are starting to show some improvement, she did not get another transfusion. We are to have her blood checked again on Tuesday to make sure that she doesn't require any further treatment.
It may be my imagination but its seems that Monica's energy level was already higher today. She didn't nap as much and was doing some sewing for Jesse.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Monica made two trips today to the Cancer Agency. Jesse took her in the morning to her blood screened and grouped so that she could have a platelet transfusion in the afternoon. Monica, Jesse and I went back in the afternoon. Monica had her 3rd to last radiation treatment at 2:00 p.m. and a follow up visit with the dr. shortly thereafter. From 3:00 pm. until about 4:30 Monica received the platelet transfusion.
The transfusion is given in a bright room on the 6th floor. Two other patients were receiving transfusions. It was interesting to watch the 3 patients start to share their stories with one another and start to bond. It makes one realize how much some people are suffering from cancer.
Marley came home for supper and Jesse went to Oma's to spend the night. It seems pretty clear that Oma will require more care than she can probably get at home. Ingo is working hard on a solution. Meals on Wheels starts tomorrow along with two-a-day visits from in-home care providers. We are worried about them being alone in the evenings. There are probably some hard decisions coming. Naturally, Monica finds it emotionally hard to think about these issues.
Monica made two trips today to the Cancer Agency. Jesse took her in the morning to her blood screened and grouped so that she could have a platelet transfusion in the afternoon. Monica, Jesse and I went back in the afternoon. Monica had her 3rd to last radiation treatment at 2:00 p.m. and a follow up visit with the dr. shortly thereafter. From 3:00 pm. until about 4:30 Monica received the platelet transfusion.
The transfusion is given in a bright room on the 6th floor. Two other patients were receiving transfusions. It was interesting to watch the 3 patients start to share their stories with one another and start to bond. It makes one realize how much some people are suffering from cancer.
Marley came home for supper and Jesse went to Oma's to spend the night. It seems pretty clear that Oma will require more care than she can probably get at home. Ingo is working hard on a solution. Meals on Wheels starts tomorrow along with two-a-day visits from in-home care providers. We are worried about them being alone in the evenings. There are probably some hard decisions coming. Naturally, Monica finds it emotionally hard to think about these issues.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
(posted by Greg)
I took Monica to InspireHealth today for an accupuncture treatment and then to the Cancer Agency for her blood test and radiation treatment (only 3 to go!). Unfortunately, Monica's platelets continue to be low. So, she is scheduled for another platelet transfusion following her radiation treatment tomorrow. The radiation treatment is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. but we have to go to the Cancer Agency Lab for blood screening and grouping so that they can order the correct platelet types. So, tomorrow will be a long day. Jesse will probably take Monica in the morning and I will take her in the afternoon.
Marley spent today at Oma's helping Ingo and she is going to sleep there tonight. Ingo is making arrangements for meals on wheels and for some homecare. Oma is feeling like she needs to be somewhere where she can get more help. So, I suspect that the family will have to begin looking at the options in that regard.
I took Monica to InspireHealth today for an accupuncture treatment and then to the Cancer Agency for her blood test and radiation treatment (only 3 to go!). Unfortunately, Monica's platelets continue to be low. So, she is scheduled for another platelet transfusion following her radiation treatment tomorrow. The radiation treatment is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. but we have to go to the Cancer Agency Lab for blood screening and grouping so that they can order the correct platelet types. So, tomorrow will be a long day. Jesse will probably take Monica in the morning and I will take her in the afternoon.
Marley spent today at Oma's helping Ingo and she is going to sleep there tonight. Ingo is making arrangements for meals on wheels and for some homecare. Oma is feeling like she needs to be somewhere where she can get more help. So, I suspect that the family will have to begin looking at the options in that regard.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Monica was very tired today, napping a lot between meals, and so we didn't do much today.
Marley spent most of the day at Oma and Opa's helping Ingo deal with getting them settled into a routine now that Oma is home. Their situation is going to pose a problem for the family. Monica finds it hard to think about and gets quite emotional and frustrated that she is not in a position to help more.
Tomorrow the Cancer Agency will check Monica's blood again and she will have her 4th to last radiation treatment.
Monica was very tired today, napping a lot between meals, and so we didn't do much today.
Marley spent most of the day at Oma and Opa's helping Ingo deal with getting them settled into a routine now that Oma is home. Their situation is going to pose a problem for the family. Monica finds it hard to think about and gets quite emotional and frustrated that she is not in a position to help more.
Tomorrow the Cancer Agency will check Monica's blood again and she will have her 4th to last radiation treatment.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Saturday, July 23, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Monica had a very quiet day today, sleeping quite a bit. She was trying to sew something for Jesse off and on today but finds it hard.
Monica was still sleeping when I got up today. I realized, looking at her, that she is losing quite a bit of hair where she gets the radiation treatments. She does a good job of combing her hair so that it doesn't show and hasn't mentioned it (but it must be bothering her). It makes me realize that, as close as I am to the situation, I still don't appreciate all that she is going through.
I am noticing as well that, well she continues to eat fairly well, Monica doesn't seem to like the taste of anything.
Monica had a very quiet day today, sleeping quite a bit. She was trying to sew something for Jesse off and on today but finds it hard.
Monica was still sleeping when I got up today. I realized, looking at her, that she is losing quite a bit of hair where she gets the radiation treatments. She does a good job of combing her hair so that it doesn't show and hasn't mentioned it (but it must be bothering her). It makes me realize that, as close as I am to the situation, I still don't appreciate all that she is going through.
I am noticing as well that, well she continues to eat fairly well, Monica doesn't seem to like the taste of anything.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Monica slept well last night and, though tired and still bothered by hives, is feeling quite well. She had her radiation treament today and was given her schedule for the next week. It was great to see the word "finished" on the schedule for Friday. It is hard to believe that she only has 4 radiation treatments left.
On Monday, they will test her blood again and, I guess, they will make a decision about resuming the chemotherapy.
Monica's mother was sent home from the hospital today. Ingo was caught a bit flatfooted and is scrambling to make the arrangements necessary to have her home. Oma's situation is difficult for Monica because she wants to help but isn't able to. Fortunately, Ingo is really carrying the ball on this.
On Monday, they will test her blood again and, I guess, they will make a decision about resuming the chemotherapy.
Monica's mother was sent home from the hospital today. Ingo was caught a bit flatfooted and is scrambling to make the arrangements necessary to have her home. Oma's situation is difficult for Monica because she wants to help but isn't able to. Fortunately, Ingo is really carrying the ball on this.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
July 21, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Yesterday, Monica had an appointment with the radiation oncologist. She was very nice and did a fairly thorough neuroligical examination as well as questioning Monica quite extensively about how she was feeling. Following the appointment Monica had her radiation treatment.
Today, Monica's rash/hives were worse again. Marley spoke to the nurse at the Cancer Agency and we got some different medicine to try to deal with it. Another blood test preceded the radiation treatment and the nurse asked us to wait untl they got the results. As it turns out Monica's platelets had dropped further so they took Monica upstairs and gave her a platelet transfusion. (They are concerned about her bleeding- including, apparently, bleeding in the brain.) Monica and Marley got home quite late as result. Monica seems a bit livelier and ate a good meal. I expect that we will all go to bed early tonight.
I suspect that I am repeating myself but, I must say, that I am impressed at what a good job they do of keeping track of Monica and of communicating with us. Almost without exception as well, the staff are empathetic and considerate. They have developed a very good "culture" at the Cancer Agency.
Yesterday, Monica had an appointment with the radiation oncologist. She was very nice and did a fairly thorough neuroligical examination as well as questioning Monica quite extensively about how she was feeling. Following the appointment Monica had her radiation treatment.
Today, Monica's rash/hives were worse again. Marley spoke to the nurse at the Cancer Agency and we got some different medicine to try to deal with it. Another blood test preceded the radiation treatment and the nurse asked us to wait untl they got the results. As it turns out Monica's platelets had dropped further so they took Monica upstairs and gave her a platelet transfusion. (They are concerned about her bleeding- including, apparently, bleeding in the brain.) Monica and Marley got home quite late as result. Monica seems a bit livelier and ate a good meal. I expect that we will all go to bed early tonight.
I suspect that I am repeating myself but, I must say, that I am impressed at what a good job they do of keeping track of Monica and of communicating with us. Almost without exception as well, the staff are empathetic and considerate. They have developed a very good "culture" at the Cancer Agency.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
(posted by Greg)
The Cancer Agency asked Monica to come early today and have another blood test. They asked us to wait for an hour or so following the radiation while they again tested Monica's blood. They wanted us to be nearby in case they felt it was necessary to give her a transfusion today. Her platelets were still low but stable enough that she didn't need a transfusion today. They are still discontinuing the chemotherapy and want Monica to have her blood tested again on Thursday.
We have an appointment tomorrow with the radiation oncologist and so expect that we will be discussing some of these issues including the hives which Monica has.
Jesse accompanied us to the Cancer Agency today. Marley and Ingo drove Ross to Seattle so that he could catch his plane home. I expect that Marley will really be missing Ross.
Oma is still in the hospital and while she is recovering somewhat is having some problems. She is very puffy with fluids as her heart is having a hard time dealing with the water in her system. Unfortunately, the initial indication is that the operation didn't work either. I think that her ongoing care is going to be a problem that the family is going to have to face very soon.
The Cancer Agency asked Monica to come early today and have another blood test. They asked us to wait for an hour or so following the radiation while they again tested Monica's blood. They wanted us to be nearby in case they felt it was necessary to give her a transfusion today. Her platelets were still low but stable enough that she didn't need a transfusion today. They are still discontinuing the chemotherapy and want Monica to have her blood tested again on Thursday.
We have an appointment tomorrow with the radiation oncologist and so expect that we will be discussing some of these issues including the hives which Monica has.
Jesse accompanied us to the Cancer Agency today. Marley and Ingo drove Ross to Seattle so that he could catch his plane home. I expect that Marley will really be missing Ross.
Oma is still in the hospital and while she is recovering somewhat is having some problems. She is very puffy with fluids as her heart is having a hard time dealing with the water in her system. Unfortunately, the initial indication is that the operation didn't work either. I think that her ongoing care is going to be a problem that the family is going to have to face very soon.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
(posted by Greg)
It is easy sometimes (when you get in a comfortable routine) to forget the nature of the fight that you are engaged in when you battle cancer. I think that this happened to us as Monica seemed to be doing well through the first 4 weeks of treatments. Reality is setting in again.
As I mentioned in an earlier blog, Monica has been taken off the chemotherapy because her platelet count was too low. She had her blood tested again today and, unfortunately, the platelet count has dropped even lower. We have to be very careful now that she isn't cut or bruised as it will be more difficult to control any bleeding. Our contact nurse at the Cancer Agency is going to discuss Monica's status with the Doctor. It may be that she will have to have a transfusion.
This morning we also notice that Monica is having an allergic reaction to treatments in the form of hives on her legs and middle body. She has been given Benadryl to help with this.
As if the foregoing wasn't enough, Monica is now very tired most of the day and having to rest a lot. She is napping quite a bit.
Fortunately, Monica's spirits remain good.
It is easy sometimes (when you get in a comfortable routine) to forget the nature of the fight that you are engaged in when you battle cancer. I think that this happened to us as Monica seemed to be doing well through the first 4 weeks of treatments. Reality is setting in again.
As I mentioned in an earlier blog, Monica has been taken off the chemotherapy because her platelet count was too low. She had her blood tested again today and, unfortunately, the platelet count has dropped even lower. We have to be very careful now that she isn't cut or bruised as it will be more difficult to control any bleeding. Our contact nurse at the Cancer Agency is going to discuss Monica's status with the Doctor. It may be that she will have to have a transfusion.
This morning we also notice that Monica is having an allergic reaction to treatments in the form of hives on her legs and middle body. She has been given Benadryl to help with this.
As if the foregoing wasn't enough, Monica is now very tired most of the day and having to rest a lot. She is napping quite a bit.
Fortunately, Monica's spirits remain good.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Radiation Images
Well we finally got permission from Monica to post some pictures that Daniel took while he was here visiting from Idaho. The top image is of her with the radiologist technicians. The second shows her mask being positioned before she begins radiation. The mask fits her so tightly that she still has the waffle impressions on her face when she gets home. The room is considered a bunker and would be capable of withstanding a direct nuclear attack.
-Marley
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Friday, July 15, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Marley and her boyfriend, Ross, took Monica to the Cancer Agency today. Even though she could not do her chemotherapy today because of her low platelet count, she still had her radiation. The technologists were great and allowed Ross to see the whole procedure.
Earlier this year Moncia had bought some groupon coupons for the Vancity Theatre on Seymour Street. So, Monica, Jesse, Ross, Marley and I went to see a couple of international films. The first file was 180 degrees South, an interesting documentary about a fellow who was pursuing his goal to climb a mountain in Pantagonia. The scenery was beautiful and it was generally a very good show. I took Monica home while the others stayed for the second show (apparently a mistake) which they did not rate very well.
Marley and her boyfriend, Ross, took Monica to the Cancer Agency today. Even though she could not do her chemotherapy today because of her low platelet count, she still had her radiation. The technologists were great and allowed Ross to see the whole procedure.
Earlier this year Moncia had bought some groupon coupons for the Vancity Theatre on Seymour Street. So, Monica, Jesse, Ross, Marley and I went to see a couple of international films. The first file was 180 degrees South, an interesting documentary about a fellow who was pursuing his goal to climb a mountain in Pantagonia. The scenery was beautiful and it was generally a very good show. I took Monica home while the others stayed for the second show (apparently a mistake) which they did not rate very well.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Thursday, July 14, 2011
(Posted by Greg)
Today was a busy day at the Cancer Agency for Monica. Blood test, radiation, meeting with Dr. and trip to the pharmacy to advise them that the blood work had been done so that determine again whether or not to renew the prescription for the chemotherapy drugs.
The radiation went well and the brief meeting with the Dr. was on time. The visit with the Dr. is fairly routine. I think that they want to know if there are any problems or side effects etc. It is also gives them an opportunity to answer questions. Monica is not suffering from any side effects (that we are aware of) and we don't have many questions about the process so the meeting was brief. We are starting to have some questions about what exactly happens when the radiation is finished. We have a meeting scheduled for next week with one of the main oncologists. I expect that those questions will be answered at that meeting.
A minor roadbump -When we got home, one of the nurses called to advise that the blood test showed that Monica's platelets (not sure about the spelling) were down. So, they don't want her to take the chemotherapy until after the weekend and until after they can do a follow up blood test. This is one of the reasons for the weekliy blood test so I think this is a fairly common side effect of this particular type of chemotherapy. We will find out more about this however.
Monica was too tired to see her mom tonight. Jesse and I went to see her. She seems a little stronger each day. Oma is retaining too much fluid at the moment so they are (apparently) trying to address this. I say "apparently" because the communication with the Drs. at the Richmond Hospital is not very good. Monica's brother Ingo is having a hard time getting the right people to speak with him.
Today was a busy day at the Cancer Agency for Monica. Blood test, radiation, meeting with Dr. and trip to the pharmacy to advise them that the blood work had been done so that determine again whether or not to renew the prescription for the chemotherapy drugs.
The radiation went well and the brief meeting with the Dr. was on time. The visit with the Dr. is fairly routine. I think that they want to know if there are any problems or side effects etc. It is also gives them an opportunity to answer questions. Monica is not suffering from any side effects (that we are aware of) and we don't have many questions about the process so the meeting was brief. We are starting to have some questions about what exactly happens when the radiation is finished. We have a meeting scheduled for next week with one of the main oncologists. I expect that those questions will be answered at that meeting.
A minor roadbump -When we got home, one of the nurses called to advise that the blood test showed that Monica's platelets (not sure about the spelling) were down. So, they don't want her to take the chemotherapy until after the weekend and until after they can do a follow up blood test. This is one of the reasons for the weekliy blood test so I think this is a fairly common side effect of this particular type of chemotherapy. We will find out more about this however.
Monica was too tired to see her mom tonight. Jesse and I went to see her. She seems a little stronger each day. Oma is retaining too much fluid at the moment so they are (apparently) trying to address this. I say "apparently" because the communication with the Drs. at the Richmond Hospital is not very good. Monica's brother Ingo is having a hard time getting the right people to speak with him.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Marley and her boyfriend took Monica to visit her mother in the hospital this morning and all report that Oma seems a little stronger. Ingo continues to look after Opa and took him to the hospital for a visit in the evening.
After lunch, Marley and Ross left for the Sunshine Coast and texted back that they arrived safely and found the keys etc. I worked in the morning and took Monica to her radiation treatment. She continues to be quite tired but otherwise seems to be doing well.
On the way home we stopped at Granville Island to buy the ingredients for supper. Monica and I are really getting to know our way around that part of Vancouver and keep spotting organic markets and vegetarian restaurants along the way.
Marley and her boyfriend took Monica to visit her mother in the hospital this morning and all report that Oma seems a little stronger. Ingo continues to look after Opa and took him to the hospital for a visit in the evening.
After lunch, Marley and Ross left for the Sunshine Coast and texted back that they arrived safely and found the keys etc. I worked in the morning and took Monica to her radiation treatment. She continues to be quite tired but otherwise seems to be doing well.
On the way home we stopped at Granville Island to buy the ingredients for supper. Monica and I are really getting to know our way around that part of Vancouver and keep spotting organic markets and vegetarian restaurants along the way.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Monica's mother came through her operation and while she seems weak is resting comfortably. It is a big relief to see her survive this. We are all hoping she will recover well and will have some good quality of life. Monica is more emotional at this time and found it to be quite emotional to see her mom in the hospital. Fortunately, Monica's brother, Ingo, is bearing a lot of the load with regard to caring for his father and Monica's mom is getting a lot of support from her sister, Ida.
The treatments of course carry on as scheduled. Monica continues to do well with the treatments. As I have said in other blogs, the effects seem to be a bit cumulative and she is quite tired.
Marley and her boyfriend are planning an excursion to Sunshine Coast. They are going to camp on Barry and Sharon's property at Secret Cove and plan on hiking in to Skookumchuk Narrows. We dug out all of our camping supplies for them. Hopefully, they will get good weather.
Monica's mother came through her operation and while she seems weak is resting comfortably. It is a big relief to see her survive this. We are all hoping she will recover well and will have some good quality of life. Monica is more emotional at this time and found it to be quite emotional to see her mom in the hospital. Fortunately, Monica's brother, Ingo, is bearing a lot of the load with regard to caring for his father and Monica's mom is getting a lot of support from her sister, Ida.
The treatments of course carry on as scheduled. Monica continues to do well with the treatments. As I have said in other blogs, the effects seem to be a bit cumulative and she is quite tired.
Marley and her boyfriend are planning an excursion to Sunshine Coast. They are going to camp on Barry and Sharon's property at Secret Cove and plan on hiking in to Skookumchuk Narrows. We dug out all of our camping supplies for them. Hopefully, they will get good weather.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Monday, July 11, 2011
(posted by Greg)
The hospital had indicated that they will likely operate on Oma's rectal prolapse today. They plan on using a spinal anesthesia but we are still concerned about her heart's ability to withistand an operation. Monica, Jesse, Marley, Ross and Ida spent most of the day with Oma waiting for her turn to come up. Monica found it quite tiring and emotional so, after I took her to her radiation treatment, I took her home so that she could rest and we waited at home.
Marley, Ingo and Ross were at the hospital until the operation finished. Oma's operation did not start until about 7:00 p.m. so they didn't get home until about 11:00 pm. Thankfully, Oma seems to have come through the operation safely.
The hospital had indicated that they will likely operate on Oma's rectal prolapse today. They plan on using a spinal anesthesia but we are still concerned about her heart's ability to withistand an operation. Monica, Jesse, Marley, Ross and Ida spent most of the day with Oma waiting for her turn to come up. Monica found it quite tiring and emotional so, after I took her to her radiation treatment, I took her home so that she could rest and we waited at home.
Marley, Ingo and Ross were at the hospital until the operation finished. Oma's operation did not start until about 7:00 p.m. so they didn't get home until about 11:00 pm. Thankfully, Oma seems to have come through the operation safely.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Another fairly quiet day as far as Moncia's treatment goes and not too much to blog about (this is probably a good thing.) as Monica continues to soldier on.
We did take time to wish Daniel a happy birthday (Hard to believe that he is 27 already). In the afternoon we visited Monica's dad for a while and ran into her Aunt Ida and Uncle Lewis at his house. It was good to see them. Monica's Aunt had visited Oma in the hospital and was concerned about her. Ingo took Monica's dad to the hospital for a vist and we went home.
Another fairly quiet day as far as Moncia's treatment goes and not too much to blog about (this is probably a good thing.) as Monica continues to soldier on.
We did take time to wish Daniel a happy birthday (Hard to believe that he is 27 already). In the afternoon we visited Monica's dad for a while and ran into her Aunt Ida and Uncle Lewis at his house. It was good to see them. Monica's Aunt had visited Oma in the hospital and was concerned about her. Ingo took Monica's dad to the hospital for a vist and we went home.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
(posted by Greg)
We had a quiet day today-not much to blog about. Monica worked a bit in the garden and rested but is otherwise doing not to badly)
Marley's boyfriend, Ross, has arrived. It is nice to see him again.( Marley has quite a big smile- it is more noticeable today.)
We had a quiet day today-not much to blog about. Monica worked a bit in the garden and rested but is otherwise doing not to badly)
Marley's boyfriend, Ross, has arrived. It is nice to see him again.( Marley has quite a big smile- it is more noticeable today.)
Friday, July 8, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Monica completed her 16th radiation treatment (14 more to go) today. Everything went well and the anti-nausea medicine continues to work well. She does seem more tired.
Monica's mom took herself to hospital today. She has a rectal prolapse and it looks like she is going to go for the operation to fix it. Jesse spent most of the day with her. Monica and I visited her late in the afternoon. If they do the operation, it will likely be Monday or Tuesday.
Marley and Ingo are planning on picking up her boyfriend Ross tonight in Seattle before coming home.
Monica completed her 16th radiation treatment (14 more to go) today. Everything went well and the anti-nausea medicine continues to work well. She does seem more tired.
Monica's mom took herself to hospital today. She has a rectal prolapse and it looks like she is going to go for the operation to fix it. Jesse spent most of the day with her. Monica and I visited her late in the afternoon. If they do the operation, it will likely be Monday or Tuesday.
Marley and Ingo are planning on picking up her boyfriend Ross tonight in Seattle before coming home.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Thursday, July 7, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Monica's friend, Catherine, from Merritt dropped by for a visit this morning. It was nice for Monica to see her and to have a chance to update each other on their families.
Jesse accompanied Monica and I to the Cancer Agency. Monica's radiation treatment went well and her blood work came back ok. So, she will be able to continue with the chemotherapy for another week. By my count, Monica is about 1/2 the way through the radiation.
We were supposed to see a doctor following the radiation. Unfortunately, I had not allowed enough time for the waiting ( I had to return to the office for a closing.). We had to leave after waiting for about an hour and 20 minutes. It was a bit frustrating ( particularly as we were left waiting in small examination room for more than 50 minutes -this is after Monica had the radiation and the chemotherapy). The people were nice enough but the system was frustrating. Monica called when we got home and was told that she did not need to re-schedule that appointment.
Monica's friend, Catherine, from Merritt dropped by for a visit this morning. It was nice for Monica to see her and to have a chance to update each other on their families.
Jesse accompanied Monica and I to the Cancer Agency. Monica's radiation treatment went well and her blood work came back ok. So, she will be able to continue with the chemotherapy for another week. By my count, Monica is about 1/2 the way through the radiation.
We were supposed to see a doctor following the radiation. Unfortunately, I had not allowed enough time for the waiting ( I had to return to the office for a closing.). We had to leave after waiting for about an hour and 20 minutes. It was a bit frustrating ( particularly as we were left waiting in small examination room for more than 50 minutes -this is after Monica had the radiation and the chemotherapy). The people were nice enough but the system was frustrating. Monica called when we got home and was told that she did not need to re-schedule that appointment.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
(posted by Greg)
It was a busier day today. Monica and I attended the brain tumour support group at the Cancer Agency. This meeting lasts about an hour and a half and is well-attended. Each patient and caregiver introduces himself/herself at the beginning and usually gives a brief summary of what stage they are at and what is going on. I was once again moved by some of the stories. Many of the people are young and some have young families. Some are older and being supported by their children. In each case the stories are touching ( including some who are dealing with their tumour getting larger).
The support group discussions are useful and stimulating. Some of the discussions focus on practical matters such as protecting the treatment area from the sun (Fortunately Monica has a couple of nice hats. Unfortunately, we keep forgetting them and she has to wear my baseball cap.). Sometimes the discussion focuses on deeper matters such as "fear"- how it is being felt and how people are dealing with it. As I said, I find the meeting to be moving. I think Monica enjoys them as well and is benefitting from them. She participates in the discussion and gets some useful insights.
Following the support group meeting, Monica had her radiation treatment. On the way home we stopped at Service Canada to submit a medical certificate needed to support her claim for EI disability. By the time we got home Monica was quite tired and rested this afternoon (although she is also working on a sewing project). I went to work for the afternoon.
Jesse returned home this afternoon and we had a nice wild salmon dinner with new potatoes and Jesse's special avocado and tomato salad (made by the way with lettuce from the garden which is starting to finally grow).
It was a busier day today. Monica and I attended the brain tumour support group at the Cancer Agency. This meeting lasts about an hour and a half and is well-attended. Each patient and caregiver introduces himself/herself at the beginning and usually gives a brief summary of what stage they are at and what is going on. I was once again moved by some of the stories. Many of the people are young and some have young families. Some are older and being supported by their children. In each case the stories are touching ( including some who are dealing with their tumour getting larger).
The support group discussions are useful and stimulating. Some of the discussions focus on practical matters such as protecting the treatment area from the sun (Fortunately Monica has a couple of nice hats. Unfortunately, we keep forgetting them and she has to wear my baseball cap.). Sometimes the discussion focuses on deeper matters such as "fear"- how it is being felt and how people are dealing with it. As I said, I find the meeting to be moving. I think Monica enjoys them as well and is benefitting from them. She participates in the discussion and gets some useful insights.
Following the support group meeting, Monica had her radiation treatment. On the way home we stopped at Service Canada to submit a medical certificate needed to support her claim for EI disability. By the time we got home Monica was quite tired and rested this afternoon (although she is also working on a sewing project). I went to work for the afternoon.
Jesse returned home this afternoon and we had a nice wild salmon dinner with new potatoes and Jesse's special avocado and tomato salad (made by the way with lettuce from the garden which is starting to finally grow).
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
(posted by Greg)
Jesse is still away in Ucluelet and Marley has gone with Ingo to the U.S. to writer her Mcat. So, Monica and I are emptynesters again. Interesting how much less food we go through and how the decrease in clutter. Mostly, however, it is much quieter. One positive aspect of what has been going on is that Monica and I have been enjoying having the house full again.
The house will be fuller when Marley gets back on Friday. Her 6'9" boyfriend, Ross, is coming for a much-anticipated visit.
Everything went well today with the chemotherapy and the radiation. Although Monica was quite tired again.
Jesse is still away in Ucluelet and Marley has gone with Ingo to the U.S. to writer her Mcat. So, Monica and I are emptynesters again. Interesting how much less food we go through and how the decrease in clutter. Mostly, however, it is much quieter. One positive aspect of what has been going on is that Monica and I have been enjoying having the house full again.
The house will be fuller when Marley gets back on Friday. Her 6'9" boyfriend, Ross, is coming for a much-anticipated visit.
Everything went well today with the chemotherapy and the radiation. Although Monica was quite tired again.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Monday, July 4, 2011
(posted by Greg)
I took Monica to her afternoon radiation treatment today. Marley stayed home as she is in the final approaches for the Mcat exam which she writes on July 6th in Seattle. Following the treatment we stopped at Finlandia Drugs to re-stock Monica' supplements and vitamins and then went grocery shopping at Granville Island. Monica still doesn't like the strong smells in the market so we have developed a routine where she watches the buskers (and people watches) while Greg shops.
Monica routinely surprises us with what she takes on and today was no exception. I decided at the last minute to go to our regular tai chi class. Despite having had a treatment today and feeling tired, Monica decided to go with me. We were both very happy that we went. Although her form wasn't perfect, Monica got in some good exercise as she was able to do most of the warm-up exercises and two sets of tai chi. More importantly, Monica and I got a genuine, heartfelt welcome from our tai chi friends that was really heartwarming.
I took Monica to her afternoon radiation treatment today. Marley stayed home as she is in the final approaches for the Mcat exam which she writes on July 6th in Seattle. Following the treatment we stopped at Finlandia Drugs to re-stock Monica' supplements and vitamins and then went grocery shopping at Granville Island. Monica still doesn't like the strong smells in the market so we have developed a routine where she watches the buskers (and people watches) while Greg shops.
Monica routinely surprises us with what she takes on and today was no exception. I decided at the last minute to go to our regular tai chi class. Despite having had a treatment today and feeling tired, Monica decided to go with me. We were both very happy that we went. Although her form wasn't perfect, Monica got in some good exercise as she was able to do most of the warm-up exercises and two sets of tai chi. More importantly, Monica and I got a genuine, heartfelt welcome from our tai chi friends that was really heartwarming.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
(posted by Greg)
A quiet, hang-out at home day today . Some gardening, some sitting around watching the gardener (really enjoyable actually). Ingo dropped by to help with a couple of minor plumbing chores. He stayed for lunch and shared the new recipe for vegetarian chilli being tried by Greg.
Monica of course took her daily chemotherapy. Other than feeling tired, she felt pretty good and enjoyed the day (including walking with Ingo to the dog park with Allie, his German shepherd puppy).
A quiet, hang-out at home day today . Some gardening, some sitting around watching the gardener (really enjoyable actually). Ingo dropped by to help with a couple of minor plumbing chores. He stayed for lunch and shared the new recipe for vegetarian chilli being tried by Greg.
Monica of course took her daily chemotherapy. Other than feeling tired, she felt pretty good and enjoyed the day (including walking with Ingo to the dog park with Allie, his German shepherd puppy).
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Saturday, July 2, 2011
(posted by Greg)
We all slept a little later than usual today. Monica was feeling pretty good and was able to enjoy her meals. With Daniel gone, Jesse away and Marley studying hard for her Mcat (she wrote a test exam for 5 hours today), the house was pretty quiet.
I worked around the yard quite a bit today. Ron Turner and his sister, Judy, came by for a visit. It was nice to see them. The weather cooperated and we were able to relax on the patio and have some watermelon. Monica did seem more tired today and napped a couple of times.
It is nice when Monica and I can open up and share some of our deeper feelings, fears etc. It doesn't happen all the time and can't seem to be forced ( the moments are sometimes just not right). We had a couple of those moments today. On the one hand, I don't like to see her upset (she is used to seeing me upset with my genetically-flawed tear ducts). However, on the other hand, I am grateful for those moments when she is able to express some of those feelings to me and the kids.
Marley is really gearing up now for the Mcat. She will be glad, I think, when it is done. I know she is looking forward to visit from her boyfriend, Ross, who arrives in Seattle on the 8th of July.
We are now worrying more than normal about Oma and Opa. On top of her other health issues, Oma now has a rectal prolapse (?not sure about the spelling) to deal with and is in quite a bit of pain.
We all slept a little later than usual today. Monica was feeling pretty good and was able to enjoy her meals. With Daniel gone, Jesse away and Marley studying hard for her Mcat (she wrote a test exam for 5 hours today), the house was pretty quiet.
I worked around the yard quite a bit today. Ron Turner and his sister, Judy, came by for a visit. It was nice to see them. The weather cooperated and we were able to relax on the patio and have some watermelon. Monica did seem more tired today and napped a couple of times.
It is nice when Monica and I can open up and share some of our deeper feelings, fears etc. It doesn't happen all the time and can't seem to be forced ( the moments are sometimes just not right). We had a couple of those moments today. On the one hand, I don't like to see her upset (she is used to seeing me upset with my genetically-flawed tear ducts). However, on the other hand, I am grateful for those moments when she is able to express some of those feelings to me and the kids.
Marley is really gearing up now for the Mcat. She will be glad, I think, when it is done. I know she is looking forward to visit from her boyfriend, Ross, who arrives in Seattle on the 8th of July.
We are now worrying more than normal about Oma and Opa. On top of her other health issues, Oma now has a rectal prolapse (?not sure about the spelling) to deal with and is in quite a bit of pain.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Posted by Greg Greiner
(I was being teased a bit about referring to myself as "Greg" when I write the blog and there was some confusion as to which blogs were written by me and which were written by Marley. So, I am going to identify myself so that I can write in the first person.)
Daniel had to catch a flight home this morning from Bellingham. The flight left at 5:00 a.m. so Daniel and I had to leave home at about 2:15 to get him there on time. We really enjoyed his visit and it was good to have him get some first hand feelings for what his mom is going through with the treatments. We will miss him.
When I got home, Jesse had Monica and I drive him to the ferry terminal at Horseshoe Bay for 8:30 am. ( he is going to Ucluelet to visit his girlfriend for a few days. After dropping Jesse off, Monica and shopped at Park Royal. The Whole Foods store there is like a Disneyland for foodies and has lots of organic fruits, vegetables, meats and canned good. I think that we will have to shop there from time to time.
We had a fairly quiet day for the rest of Canada Day (including a couple of naps- me to make up for lack of sleep and Moncia because she seems to be a bit more tired now.)
No radiation today for Monica and the anti-nausea pill continues to do its job so she was able to eat well today.
(I was being teased a bit about referring to myself as "Greg" when I write the blog and there was some confusion as to which blogs were written by me and which were written by Marley. So, I am going to identify myself so that I can write in the first person.)
Daniel had to catch a flight home this morning from Bellingham. The flight left at 5:00 a.m. so Daniel and I had to leave home at about 2:15 to get him there on time. We really enjoyed his visit and it was good to have him get some first hand feelings for what his mom is going through with the treatments. We will miss him.
When I got home, Jesse had Monica and I drive him to the ferry terminal at Horseshoe Bay for 8:30 am. ( he is going to Ucluelet to visit his girlfriend for a few days. After dropping Jesse off, Monica and shopped at Park Royal. The Whole Foods store there is like a Disneyland for foodies and has lots of organic fruits, vegetables, meats and canned good. I think that we will have to shop there from time to time.
We had a fairly quiet day for the rest of Canada Day (including a couple of naps- me to make up for lack of sleep and Moncia because she seems to be a bit more tired now.)
No radiation today for Monica and the anti-nausea pill continues to do its job so she was able to eat well today.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Monica's blood work yesterday was good and the Cancer Agency renewed the chemo supply for another week. Daniel again took over chauffering his mom to the Agency for the radiation. She has now had 11 out of the 30 planned treatments.Following the radiation, Monica and Daniel had a visit with Oma and Opa in Steveston.
Today was Jesse's birthday (it's hard to believe 25 years can pass so fast!) so we had a nice family dinner to celebrate the birthday and because Daniel is having to head back to Boise tomorrow. (Fortunately Monica's appetite is not to bad and the nausea pills continue to work.) Buffalo steaks for the kids and wild halibut cakes for Monica and Greg. Monica seemed tired tonight and had a little nap after dinner.
Today was Jesse's birthday (it's hard to believe 25 years can pass so fast!) so we had a nice family dinner to celebrate the birthday and because Daniel is having to head back to Boise tomorrow. (Fortunately Monica's appetite is not to bad and the nausea pills continue to work.) Buffalo steaks for the kids and wild halibut cakes for Monica and Greg. Monica seemed tired tonight and had a little nap after dinner.
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