Thursday, December 31

Good news today! The MRI results indicated a decrease in the enhancement of the tumors. That is the best result we could have hoped for from the MRI. Most of the other challenges I've been facing are likely a result of continued high steroid dosage and some swelling around the lesions. We hope to try another steroid taper in a few weeks. I will most likely start another round of chemo in a week or two when my platelet count is higher.

It was long day today, but we made it through ok. The good results called for a celebratory beer when we got home. Hope you enjoy the photo as much as we enjoyed the beer.

Wednesday, December 30th

Had a big night last night, thanks to Andy and Carole's brother, Jim. I went to the Purdue vs. Iowa basketball game, and got to see the Boilermakers pull one out. It was exhausting, but worth it, and lots of fun.

I got to meet Coach Keady - in spite of the scowl he always seems to have on his face, he's a really nice guy. Hope you enjoy the pictures.

Saturday, December 26th

The company started arriving last Tuesday evening with nieces Lisa and Christine along with my nephew Chris. It was a nice surprise (Lisa and Chris are from LA and Christine is from Chicago). They left Wednesday afternoon (after we enjoyed DQ chocolate malts!) to return to Chicago and Ailene, Jan, Ryan, and Tyler arrived on Wednesday evening. Brian smoked ribs for dinner on Christmas Eve and with the addition of Andy and Tory we had a full house when Santa arrived. We all had a wonderful Christmas and I got everything I wanted and more. Carole made a Crown Roast for dinner and we were all well fed too.

I hope everyone else had a great Christmas as well. Thank you to all my visitors and to everyone for their thoughts and prayers!

Sunday, December 20th

The Bengals lost again today. Hope they can pull one out next week against the Chiefs.
 I forgot to mention in my last update, thanks to the finance group in Palo Alto for the tower of goodies from Harry and David's - it included everything from mixed nuts, to smoked salmon, to baklava, to moose munch - all good stuff. Also, thanks to Marilyn for being the one to always drop things off at my house. I really appreciate it!

Here's a copy of Jeff and Cathy's Christmas card. Interesting tree, huh?

Saturday, December 19th

 It's been kind of a rough week for me. We started by trying a steroid taper, which seemed to cause me to weaken, so Dr. Carlisle decided to take the steroid back where it was to start with. That seems to be helping a little bit, but I don't feel like I'm back where I was before the taper.
I did make it to Genencor today to take a shower. It felt awesome! Carole, Andy and Tory helped move me inside, and guarded the door while I was showering. The handheld shower head worked great, BP. Thanks!
I got another nice surprise from my Genencor family today - a card with more signatures on it than I've ever seen on one card, along with more money in it as well. Thanks to everyone. The money will be put to good use. You're such a great work family. I could never ask for anything more than you've given me. There aren't words to express my appreciation.
Brian will arrive tomorrow around noon. It will be good to have him here for a a week and a half. Before my next posting, I'll try to scan a copy of Jeff's Christmas card. It's pretty amusing.
Thanks again for your card, thoughts and prayers. I'm convinced they all help! 

Sunday, December 13th

We know the answer to Who Dey?  It's the Vikings. Today's Bengals game was ugly. Last night's Purdue game was a good one - especially when you consider it was on Alabama's home court. It was a great finish by Robbie Hummell and Chris Kramer!
Today was a good day. I got a couple of good naps and Carole got some great help from neighbors getting the driveway cleared off. Here's a picture of the work crew. You saved Carole's back!

Thanks to Steve, Mary, Mike and Norma!

Nice clean driveway, huh?

We also had some good freinds over for brunch.

  Curt, Karen, Kathy and Dick

  Paul, Sherry. CA, Curt, Karen, Cathy  and Dick

Everybody brought great food!♠♠

 In my last update, I forgot to mention that we got a chance to "Skype" with Jeff for about 15 minutes yesterday. We kind of got scolded for mentioning where he was deployed - we're not supposed to do that - so Carole went in and removed the reference from my previous blog update. I guess we learned our lesson. He's working long hours - 15 - 16 hours/day, 7 days/week. He says war doesn't take any days off, so he seems okay with it. It's nice to be able to use this technology to communicate with him!

Thursday, December 10th

We had quite a blizzard yeaterday! At least 12" of snow along with 50 MPH winds. It left quite a mess outside. We had one window upstairs that apparently wasn't all the way up that blew in on a bed - luckily it didn't break and Carole was able to lock it back in place. Carole's outside right now removing snow from the end of the driveway. I'm sure she's cold.
My babysitter for the day just arrived, so I'm being cared for.
I forgot to mention on my last update that I was able to go to Genencor last Sunday, and use their handicap accessible shower - I don't have one on the ground floor of my house, so it felt great. Special thanks to Andy and Carole for helping me move around, I couldn't do it without them!

Sunday, December 6th

It was a pretty good weekend. The Bengals won again - Who Dey! The Boilermaker basketball team also won again. Both are playing very well. I hope they both continue to do so.
We got a chance to Skype with Jeff for about 15 minutes yesterday. It's pretty amazing technology that works halfway around the world. Both picture and voice were working without much delay. He's currently in Iraq and staying very busy working a lot of hours.
I'm still able to move around in the wheelchair with help from Carole or Andy, but unless somebody helps me stand up, I'm stuck.
Tonight I finish another round of chemo pills. As usual, the constipation is really uncomfortable. I go back to the Dr. at U of IH&C for a long day on New Year's Eve. I'm not looking forward to that day - It starts with an MRI in the morning, then finishes with an appointment with Dr. Carlisle at 4:00 PM.
Please don't be disappointed if you don't get a Christmas card from Carole and me this year. I'm not sure sending them will be something that fits on Carole's schedule, and I'm sure it's not on mine. We do love to hear from everyone, and wish you all happy holidays.

Thursday, December 3rd

I heard today that my platelet count is still a little low. Dr. Carlisle wants me to resume my chemo pills tonight. I'll just take one dose less than normal. I'm glad to be resuming the chemo. Hopefully, everything goes okay, and the tumors keep responding. I also hope I'm able to cut back on the steroid after I finish the chemo drug.
I started with a new physical therapist today. I really liked the person, and I think she had some good ideas on how to strengthen me. We'll have to wait and see if it really works. Don't worry, I'm still fighting, very hopeful and appreciative of all your thoughts and prayers.

Monday, November 30th

Last week was pretty exhausting for Carole and me, but it was absolutely worth it! There's nothing quite like having family around to talk with. I'm back to having my daily babysitters today - not exactly my favorite routine - but I can deal with it, and I have to admit, all of my caregivers are very good with me. Why wouldn't they be, I'm pretty easy on them?
Football this weekend went as well as can be expected - the Hawks didn't play, but managed to move up in the BCS rankings, the Bengals won and the Steelers lost, so all went well for Iowa and Cincinnati. Who dey? I have some good ballgames to look forward to the next two nights - tonight is New England vs New Orleans in football (go Saints), then tomorrow is Wake Forest vs. Purdue in basketball (go Boilers!).

Friday, November 27th

Yesterday was a great day. Great food, great family and great conversation! Brian prepared two turkeys - one smoked, one grilled. I preferred the smoked turkey, others thought the regular grilled one was more moist. It's all a matter of personal taste.



The Grilled Turkey


The smoked turkey


Part of the crowd


Another part of the crowd

I also got a nice surprise from a co-worker who's a Bengal fan on Wednesday. Thanks, Chad! It Looks great above the fireplace doesn't it?


Lastly, we heard from Jeff (we were able to Skype with him). I guess that means he's doing his job. After many delays. he made it to Iraq. He's actually relieved to finally be there. We'll send his APO contact information and care package suggestions when we get it. I think Cathy will get it from him any day now.

Sunday, November 22nd

The company started arriving yesterday. Brian arrived around 10:30, then about 5 minutes later, then my brother, Mark, my nephew, Tom, my mother, Shirley and my sisters, Rita and Beth arrived. We had some lunch then visited all afternoon before going to dinner at Granite City which was excellent. Andy arrived before dinner, but after the Hawkeye game. It was an exhausting day for everyone, but it was great to see and talk with them all. Jeff's wife, Cathy arrives later today - can't wait to see her- then Carole's Mom, sister and boys arrive later in the week. It will be great to see them as well.
I have to remember to take my naps, but I won't miss the Bengals games. It will be a busy Thanksgiving! Thank goodness for the Slingbox because Eastern Iowa doesn't like the Bengals. Thanks to my great-niece, Anna, for the heart-shaped Colts pillow. The Bengals are still my favorite, but I can't root against the Colts.
We talked with Jeff yesterday afternoon. Sounds like he ships out to Iraq this morning around 10:30 EST. He's ready! He wasn't sure where he was going from Georgia.

Friday, November 20th

The last few days have gone better - no more falling. We got a call from the doctor's office today, my platelet count is too low to resume my chemo tonight, so we'll wait another week to retest my blood. It's actually probably better for me to wait until after Thanksgiving dinner to start the chemo.
The company starts arriving tomorrow. I can't wait to see everybody!
Jeff is still in Georgia, but should be gone before Thanksgiving - Cathy will be here on Sunday.
Carole is starting to get run down. I feel sorry for her trying to keep everything up at home. Andy still comes almost every day to help.

Tuesday, November 17th

Last night was not a good one. While transferring from the toilet to the wheelchair, I fell to the floor and couldn't get back up - I hope this isn't a long term issue. Fortunately, both neighbors were home and were able to help lift me back in my chair. Thanks Steve and Mike!
The whole ordeal scared both Carole and me. She's calling the U of I H & C today to see what they have to say. We may need to look at alternative ways to do some of the transfers.
Who dey! Weren't the Bengals awesome on Sunday? I still can't believe their defense is as good as it is.
Need to nap now. Update you more later.

Thursday, November 12th

Today's visit with Dr. Carlisle went pretty well. It sounds like we'll start the next round of chemo next Friday as long as the blood platelets are okay - there's no reason to think they won't be. Everything else seemed to be in order. Thanks, Andy for taking time off work to help get me to the U of I Hospitals and Clinics. It was an exhausting day for me, and I was really tired by the time I got home.
I have a lot to look forward to over the next few weeks. A lot of people are coming around Thanksgiving. I'm looking forward to seeing all of you.
I still haven't heard anything new from Jeff, so I don't know if he's officially been deployed or not.
I can't wait for Purdue basketball to begin, and I'm still rooting for the Bengals -Beat the Steelers!

Sunday, November 8th

The Hawkeyes magic ran out yesterday. I guess that wasn't too big a surprise, was it? We'll blame the SI jinx. Who ever would have guessed Purdue could beat both Ohio State and Michigan in the same year and still be a horrible team - not even bowl eligible? That's the way this year is looking. It's crazy!
I can still root for my Bengals. Hopefully Jeff won't mind that I steal his and Brian's Slingbox signal (from Carole's mom in Cincinnati) and watch it from here today. Isn't technology great? As far as we know, Jeff still hasn't been deployed to Iraq -it's supposed to be any day now - and he seems frustrated with the delays. It seems that's the way the Army works.
I'm home this morning with a neighbor while Carole has gone to church with his wife. It was a good chance for her to get out while somebody was available to watch me. It's great to have good neighbors. Together, the neighbors took me for two trips around the block yesterday. It was a really warm day, and it felt wonderful to get outside for a while. Thanks, Steve and Mary!
Brian returns from Europe later this week, then will be coming here a week from Friday or Saturday (the 20th or 21st). Sounds like his business trip was full of long hours, without much time for any pleasure trips. That's why they call them business trips!
Andy is coming up from Iowa City later this morning. He'll take care of hooking up the Slingbox connections so I can watch the Bengals. Then he'll give Carole a break and help take care of me. He's been really good about being here when he needs to be, and he pays attention to what Carole needs as well as my concerns. I'm sure it's tough for him, because he frequently gets stuck in the middle.
I go back to the doctor at the U of I H&C next Thursday and, hopefully start the next round of chemo therapy. I'm still fighting!
Thanks again for everyone's thoughts and prayers. I appreciate all of them.

Monday, November 2nd

It was kind of a tough weekend for me. I started getting dizzy spells on Friday, so I did't get to do much of my therapy. I still don't have any idea what caused the spells, but they seem to be less frequent now, and I was able to complete my whole PT this morning - a full lap, about 80' with a walker - around the first floor of the house. That felt really good to complete.
Carole went back to work full time starting today. I have full time home health care staying here with me. I call them my babysitters. I have to admit, they are all good people, and they take good care of me.
It was an interesting football weekend. No Bengals, the Hawkeyes were lucky, Brett Favre delivered for the Vikings, and of course Purdue managed to sink to a new low level. Even Peyton Manning wasn't on top of his game, but the Colts still managed to win.
Maybe basketball season will be an improvement for Purdue. I think they have a pre-season ranking in the top 10, so hopefully they can live up to that ranking.
Thanks to all of you for your continued thoughts and prayers. I'm convinced they all help!

Monday, October 26th

What a great football weekend! The Boilermakers, the Hawkeyes and the Cyclones all won, plus the Bengals crushed the Bears. It was unbelievable. Andy and Tory came over yesterday morning and took me to Granite City for brunch. As usual, the food was excellent, and it felt great to get out - even though I'm still stuck in a wheelchair. I still feel like I'm getting stronger every day. On the way home from Granite City we stopped at OfficeMax and picked up a webcam that Andy installed Carole's laptop so we can Skype with Jeff while he's deployed to Iraq - he's supposed to leave any day now. After that several people from Carole's school came over and raked leaves. There's now a huge pile between the street and the sidewalk waiting for the city to suck them up.
The round of chemo I'm on now seems to be going well - it just started a day later than expected. I haven't experienced any unusual side-effects.
Carole got after me to nap between football games, but I just couldn't do it, so I got pretty tired on Saturday and Sunday. I'll need to remember that next weekend. Oh well, it was fun to see so many winners!

Friday, October 23rd

It's a good day! We don't know why, but the hospital didn't receive the results from the blood they drew yesterday until this morning. The platelet counts were good, so I begin the next round of chemo tonight. I'm feeling a little bit stronger every day. During this morning's physical therapy, I walked across the kitchen twice with the help of a walker - that felt good. The occupational therapy is also helping make my right side stronger. I'd love to be able to just hop out of bed and walk around the house, but right now that's just not possible. Before it got so rainy, Andy and Brian managed to take me for several walks (wheelchair rides) around the block, and took me out to dinner twice. It was great to get out. It's tough for me and I think it's tougher on Carole. Speaking of Carole, she returned to teaching half days last Monday. That gives her a chance to feel like she's doing something besides babysitting me all day, plus it's good for the kids. In the meantime, I'm working about half time from home via my laptop.
Thanks again to all of you for your thoughts, prayers and gifts.

Friday, October 16th

Today was a pretty good day - I logged in to my work email, plus when my physical therapist (torturer) was here, I was able to walk about twenty feet with the help of a walker. Things do seem to be improving daily. I know you'll all have trouble imagining this, but Carole makes a great drill sergeant, and she's making me do all my exercises. I was supposed to start my next round of chemo last night, but it got postponed until next week because my platelet count is a little low. The nurse at the UIH&C didn't seem overly concerned about the delay.
My family has been here helping a lot the past few weeks. My mother-in-law. Ailene, left here today after being here about 10 days and my brother-in-law, Jim left today after being here about three days. They both helped a bunch. My mother, two sisters and brother-in-law were here last weekend. Andy visits almost daily, and Brian drove down from Minneapolis tonight. It's kind of exhausting, but it's always good to see family. I think Brian is taking me out for dinner on Saturday night.
Today was my 20th anniversary with Genencor, and that family continues to surprise me with their generosity. They gave me a ton of gifts that I can't begin to thank them for appropriately.

Monday, October 12th

It's been a rough few weeks. I returned home last Friday, but I can't walk alone, and I'm pretty much wheel chair bound. It's really hard on Carole which makes me feel really guilty. I'm thankful Carole's mom and Andy have been here and so available. Brian was here last weekend and did a lot of work. Jeff and Cathy were also here last weekend, and helped a lot. Two of my sisters and my mother also visited last Sunday. It was exhausting, but it was good to see everyone.

Here are a few pictures from our Bengals party on Sunday. They pulled off another big win...earning the title of Cardiac Cats!

Friday, October 9, 2009

Home at last! A successful two weeks in rehab has reached its conclusion, and I am home again. I can't believe that Carole gave me her Linn-Mar bell to set on the TV tray beside the bed. I wonder if she will truly respond?? Modifications to the house were made by Brian, Carole and Ailene (Carole's mom) so that I would be safe to come home. Andy also joined us in going down the to the University of Iowa Hospitals on Thursday where we received some pretty decent news. The MRI seemed to indicate no new growth of the tumors, so we are keeping the same course of treatment with chemo starting again on Thursday.
Right now I am lying in bed watching golf on my new television. I can't believe how awesome the picture is. Several people were involved in making this happen for me, and I especially thank my mother, Shirley, for the gift. I appreciate all the support from family and friends who visited or sent their well wishes while I was laid up at the hospitals.

Monday, September 28th

The move was finally made on Saturday (insurance hold up again!) and therapy has begun. The St. Luke's rehabilitation unit is very nice and the therapy gym has tons of space and activities. Today was my first full day of physical, occupational and recreational therapy - I was exhausted when I finished. They say that is a good thing, because they want to push you as hard as possible without hurting you. Yesterday my sister, Beth, and her husband, Jeff, came to visit from Illinois. Beth brought excellent cookies and we had a good visit. I have decided that I want a large screen HD TV for the living room when I get home, so Carole and the boys are busy scoping out what we need to make that happen. Jeff Sikkema is going to take care of the wiring.
We are expecting a lot of company this weekend. Jeff and Cathy are coming for a long weekend, and Brian, Karen and Connor are coming as well. Both my mom and Carole's mom are visiting on Sunday and brothers and sisters are involved in helping them to make that happen. Carole's mom is going to stay for awhile to help with rehabilitation. We go back to the UIHC on Thursday, the 8th of October to see what the doctors have to say. Hopefully that trip won't have to take place the way the past two have.
The good news is that between the steroids and the therapy there is a chance to get back to where things were before.
Thanks for all the calls and support from family and friends - it always helps!

Thursday, September 24

Moving day is tomorrow. I will be going to St. Luke's in Cedar Rapids to stay in the rehabilitation center. I'm hoping to be able to go home in a little while. For now I'll be working on getting strength back in my right side and being able to move around with some assistance.

I've really appreciated having malts and drinking buddies for the last couple nights! Tory also brought some Hawkeye flowers but was kind enough to put "Purdue" on the other side of the ribbon. The colors worked perfectly, and everyone has enjoyed the nice smell. I also received a gift bag of goodies from Carole's mom, Ailene -- they sure taste great. I hear I'll be burning off some of those calories and getting quite a workout in the next few days.

Wednesday, September 23rd

It's been a long weekend. I took a fall on Friday and then again on early Saturday morning. Carole ended up calling 911, and I was taken to St. Luke's in Cedar Rapids. On Sunday evening I was transferred down to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and have been there ever since. There is swelling that is effecting my movement and especially my right side. I have been on a major dosage of steroids to get the swelling down, and I am getting limited function back on the right side. They did an MRI last night, and the preliminary results show that there are no major differences which could be good news if the tumors are not growing. Andy, Tory and Carole have been here pretty much non-stop, and friends and co-workers have also made some visits, and have even brought a malt (thanks CA and Sherry). My appetite has not been impacted! I hope to hear today what the plan will be to get me home. When they asked what my goal was on Sunday evening, I said it was to "Get out of here". I will write more when I get home again. Thanks for all the support and caring thoughts.

Wednesday, September 15th

The chemo pills arrived from CVS/Caremark yesterday (UPS did their normal stunt and left more than $5000 worth of pills sitting on the front porch and never even rang the doorbell) so I started a new round of chemo last night. The pills are more than double the dosage of the pills I took my last round, but I only take the pills five days a month. It was kind of a rough day today. My strength and balance are not very good. Walking is getting harder every day. The chemo doctor says it might be from the steroid I'm taking to reduce swelling. He's going to try to back me off the steroid dosage once I'm past this round of chemo. I surely hope that helps. Backing off the steroid may help me sleep better at night, too. That would make Carole happy as well.
I had a new experience tonight. I went to Target with Carole and drove around the store in one of their motorized carts. It was great to get out, but a couple of times, I think Carole thought I was going to knock her over because I was a "little" bit out of control. Then, once I got the hang of driving the cart, I couldn't seem to stop. I even unintentionally drove away from Stephanie when she was trying to ask me a question. Sorry, Stephanie! I really wasn't intentionally ignoring you.
Take care, everyone!

Saturday, September 12th

I've been trying to stay as positive as possible, but I was really expecting bad news yesterday. Fortunately, the news ended up being about as good as could be expected. The tumors (or lesions as the doctor calls them) had grown a lot between June and July, but after looking at the pictures from yesterday's MRI, they appear to be about the same now as they were in July, so the rapid growth seems to have been stopped. The bottom line is, we're going to start another round of chemo as soon as CVS/Caremark can ship me the next prescription of pills, and we're cautiously hopeful the trend will continue. The chemo pills are supposed to arrive next Tuesday, so I'll start Tuesday night. It's kind of a pain, but that's the way it works. Brian drove down from Minneapolis Thursday night, and along with Andy, joined Carole and me for the doctors' visits on Friday. I had an MRI, then met with the radiation oncologist and the chemo oncologist. It's always nice to have an extra set of ears listening to what doctors are saying (especially when we all heard the same thing) plus it's reassuring to have friendly faces in the room with you. It was a really exhausting day for me, but it wasn't as long as I thought it might be. The long-winded chemo doctor was actually not running as late as I thought he might be, and he offered some hope I didn't anticipate when he said the fatigue I'm experiencing in my legs may be related to the steroid I'm taking. He doesn't want to make any changes in the dosage while I'm starting the new round of chemo, but in a week or so, I think he'll try to wean me off of the steroid a mg at a time. Hopefully that will improve things with the fatigue.
After the doctor's visits, we made a stop at Whitey's for a malt, then Tory met us at The Vine where I had their Friday Fish & Chips special. Good stuff!
Thanks again to everyone for your sympathies regarding my father's death. Cards are still arriving almost daily. My family and I really appreciate your thoughts and concerns. Thanks also for your prayers for my health. I always knew they wouldn't hurt, but they seem to be helping!

Saturday, September 5th

Here's a picture of Bengt, Gerd, Carole and me taken a few weeks ago at The Red Frog in the Czech Village area of Cedar Rapids. The Frog Burgers were awesome, and huge (as you can see). If I remember correctly, they are ½ pound burgers and I know they are awesome! As you can tell, I'm still thinking about food all the time. It's more than just chocolate malts in my mind, but the malts are still at the top of my list.
Carole has been working half days, staying home with me every morning, making sure I don't have any problems, then teaching her 6th graders in the afternoon while I try to nap. So far the plan has worked. She has a sub she really likes a lot that has a similar teaching style to hers, so she isn't stressing about what's going on in the classroom while she's home with me.
I feel as if I'm repeating myself, but this week has gone pretty well for me. I still go through times when I'm really tired, with weak legs and poor balance, but a quick nap usually helps. I'm starting to get anxious about next Friday's visit with the doctors in Iowa City. Just the date, Sept 11th makes me nervous. Andy and Brian are planning to go along with Carole and me. I hope all goes well, but I'll just have to wait and see what they say.

Wednesday, September 2nd

The last couple of days have gone pretty well for me. My balance still needs some improvement and my legs are still weak, but I've been able to work 4 - 5 hours each day (with naps in between), and overall I'm feeling quite a bit better than I was a week ago -and I think even Carole would agree with that assessment. I'm sleeping better overnight which makes a huge difference.
Thanks to so many of you for the sympathies you've sent regarding my father's passing. I appreciate your thoughts and support during this stressful time. I'm fortunate to have two sisters and a brother who live close enough to my mother who are able spend time with her and help her through her grieving process. Additionally, I have another sister who lives in Peoria who can be there in four hours if needed. I guess there's something positive to be said for big, supportive families. I know I'm certainly happy to have Andy, Brian and Jeff calling, encouraging me and checking on me so frequently.
Lastly, welcome back Negebe. I missed you. Good to see you overcame your technological challenges, and I'm glad there's somebody else out there who can relate to some of the non-cancer things I'm facing with such great humor.

Sunday, August 30th

I think I've almost caught up on my rest since my dad's funeral because every day I feel a little bit better. I still have a little trouble with my balance, my legs are still a little weak and most of the time, I walk with short, shuffling steps, but the good news is, I can still get around on my own okay and my mind is still working (although some of you probably questioned that before this all began). I'm trying to avoid malts for a few days because I had to buy new "fat pants" while I was in Kokomo in order to have something to wear. Somehow I managed to squeeze into my suit for the funeral. Additionally, I had to borrow a belt because my old one wouldn't go all the way around me anymore. I think when I sit around and watch television all day, I just fill the empty time by eating, and that's not very healthy. I wish I could be more active.
Brian and his housemate, Ben came to Cedar Rapids on Friday night and will return to Minneapolis later today. They did a lot of work around the house yesterday - a huge help to both Carole and me. Andy also came up for dinner last night. I think Andy and Tory are going to come and visit later today as well. Carole stays on my case to be sure to stay rested and does a super job of taking care of everything I need (including reminding me when I shouldn't be hungry again).
Take care!

Thursday, August 27th

Carole and Andy drove me to Kokomo, IN on Sunday to attend my dad's funeral. Special thanks to my brother Mark and his wife, Brenda for letting Carole and I spend Sunday and Monday night with them. We left Kokomo after the funeral on Tuesday and spent the night at Carole's brother and his wife's house in Valparaiso, IN that night. We made a short stop at Fair Oaks Dairy Farm along the way to "Valpo" and tried out their chocolate malt - it was good, but, believe it or not, it was too "chocolatey" for me. Stopping in Valparaiso made the drive back to Cedar Rapids yesterday a couple of hours shorter plus it gave us a chance to spend a little time to relax and chat with Jim and Nancy as well.
All in all, my father's funeral went well. During the visitation on Monday, my nephew, Mike suggested I try a malt from the Frozen Custard in Kokomo, so I did. It was close to a new #1 -really creamy, but not quite as malty as I like. During the visitation and funeral, I think I embarrassed myself by crying too much, but Carole has assured me it was okay. I contend it was because of a combination of all the medications and treatments I've been taking - the radiation, the chemo drugs and the steroids - needless to say, my emotions are a little out of control right now. Several aunts, uncles and cousins attended. It was good to see them all and talk with them. I just wish I hadn't been so exhausted and I could have spent more time to talk with everyone than I was able to spend with them. I'm still having some good days and some "not so good" days.
Thanks to everyone for your kind thoughts, prayers, donations and expressions of sympathy I appreciate all of them.
One last note, for those of you who keep telling me Brian is right that I look like Uncle Fester. I contend I actually look like my real Uncle Jim (my mother's brother). At least he's real family, and I can be proud of that.


My Uncle Jim Schultz

Friday, August 21st

Many of you know that my father was diagnosed with a brain tumor late last year. He went through a similar course of treatment that I just finished, but after the first round of radiation and chemo, his doctors stopped the chemo and switched him to a different kind of treatment - some sort of protein therapy. My doctors are indicating I will probably go through more chemo therapy. Anyway, last night, my father passed away. He had been at home for about a week with around the clock hospice care, and the last few days he was heavily sedated with morphine, so his passing was not a total surprise, but it's still sad, and I know I'll miss him. I also know he was ready to die, and he's in a better place now, but that doesn't mean everybody around him was ready for this to happen or that we were totally prepared for it.
Things have changed a little bit for me - more good days than bad days this week. I guess that's an improvement! I'm still trying to stay as positive as possible, and I appreciate all the encouragement, prayers and success stories all of you are passing along. Thanks!
The funeral is next Tuesday, so I'll probably be in Indiana until next Wednesday, probably not many blog updates until after that.

Tuesday, August 18th

I'm learning to lower my expectations every day. Since last Thursday, there have been a few bad days, and a few "not so bad" days. From everything the doctors have told us, and from everything Carole has read in all of the literature they gave us at the hospital, this is normal. It may take up to two months for the swelling in my brain caused by the radiation and chemo treatments to go down. The biggest problems for me have been my balance and my stamina. Today was actually my best day since the radiation and chemo ended. I was able to work about 7 hours today, and handled it fairly well. After that, Carole and I went to the airport to pick up Andy and Tory who were returning from their vacation. Not too surprisingly, I'm really tired tonight.
Sorry this is such a short update.

Saturday, August 15th

Yesterday was not a very good day for me physically. Dr. Smith had me tapering off of Decadron (the steroid I've been taking), and I woke up with a booming headache, and not very stable on my feet. When I called the nurse's station at the hospital, I was surprised when they went and got Dr. Smith and put him on the phone to talk with me directly. He had me take an extra 2 mg yesterday morning, then switch back to the dosage I was on before yesterday. That took care of the headache, but I stayed pretty wobbly all day. Carole and I went over to some friend's house last night. It was a nice chance to meet and talk with several other friends. Additionally, there was a homemade "Buster Bar" ice cream dessert waiting to be tasted (or is that tested?) It was awesome! I'm sure everybody thought I wasn't in very good shape, but it helped me to get out of the house for a while and talk with people.

I woke up this morning feeling much like I have for the past couple of weeks, so it seems that the switch back to the old dosage of Decadron took care of the issues I saw yesterday morning.

Carole is back in school now. She started on Thursday. So far she's been able to come home at lunchtime, but starting next Wednesday, when the kids start school, she won't be able to do that. We're both a little nervous about that, but she is reachable by cell phone, and can come home in case of an emergency. Several people have volunteered to be "on call" in case of emergency. I'm still overwhelmed by how many good friends and neighbors we have who have offered to help. Thanks for everything you've done!
Carole wants to get out to school this weekend to put the finishing touches on her room. I'm sure we'll find time to get that done.

Wednesday, August 12th

I left the hospital today with a Certificate of Completion and the white mesh mask they used to hold my head in place during my radiation treatments. I don't know if I'll ever have a need for it again, except for maybe on Halloween, but I thought I would save it kind of as a badge of honor. I take my last round of chemo pills tonight. My next appointments at the hospital are on 9/11 - an ominous date, huh? That day I'll get a new MRI and see both the radiation oncologist and the chemo oncologist. It will be a long day. After that, I will hopefully start another round of chemotherapy.
On the way home, we celebrated by stopping at Dane's Dairy in Iowa City so I could try one of their chocolate malts - it reminded me of The Kool Moo in Cedar Rapids. After that we stopped at Parlor City Pub in the New Bohemia section of Cedar Rapids and tried their version of Jucy Lucy's (I actually tried their Spicy Lucy). For those of you from the Twin Cities, these are not the same as, or as good as the ones from Matt's or The Blue Door Pub. I liked yesterday's Frog Burger much better.
Today I'm the most tired I've been since I started my treatments. The doctor told me it's normal, and that I should expect to start getting my energy back in a couple of weeks.

Tuesday, August 11th

Only 1 radiation treatment left! I was really tired on Friday afternoon and Saturday, but I got some energy back on Sunday afternoon and Monday morning. That was perfect timing for having the Lindholms here. On Sunday, we had a great time catching up on all of our news and did a lot of laughing about different things we remembered. On Sunday evening, Andy and Tory stopped by and had dinner with all of us. I did the grilling and I think everybody had a great meal and a great time. On Monday morning, we took a driving tour of the flood area in Cedar Rapids, which is still pretty unbelievable. Then we went to the Red Frog for a Frog Burger (their version of a ½ lb. BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger). If you ever met Bengt, I'm sure you can almost hear him saying it's the best burger in the world - unbelievable! After lunch, Bengt and Gerd left for Thomson, IL. Carole and I were pretty sad to see them leave. Then it was nap time for me. I had a late radiation appointment on Monday because I knew the Lindholms were going to be here until after lunch plus we needed to take Andy and Tory to the airport for a 6:45 PM flight to Vancouver where they are headed on vacation. On the way to the airport, we stopped at a new place for a chocolate malt - Hyne's Dairy in Iowa city. The malt was close to being a new #1, but I've tasted so many, I'm having trouble keeping them straight in my mind.
On the way home today, we had a flat tire on Interstate 80. After all these trips back and forth, it was bound to happen sooner or later. Thanks goodness for AAA. They came fairly quickly, changed the tire and had us on our way home. Unfortunately, the guy reminded Carole that the spare tire (which is one of those compact spares) had a speed rating of 50 MPH. Being the rule following teacher she is, she didn't drive any faster than 50 the whole way home. She was stressed about the trucks on I-380 driving so fast and getting too close to her from behind. She was really tense by the time we got home. Needless to say, we got the blown tire replaced this afternoon. I'm pretty tired this evening, but still feel relatively well. I'm able to go up and down the stairs without a lot of trouble, and I'm not experiencing any major side-effects from the chemo medication. I'm starting to wonder if/when my hair will start to grow again. I guess I'll just have to wait and see.

Friday, August 7th

This will just be a quick update. Carole and I met with Dr. Smith, my radiation oncologist today. My blood pressure was up a little, as was my weight (up about 8 lbs since I started radiation and chemo). Obviously, those things haven't had a negative effect on my appetite. All of my blood counts are within normal levels, and I continue to be tired every afternoon, but I feel pretty well overall. I know my balance and motor skills are better now than they were before the treatments started. Starting tomorrow we're going to cut back on decadron (the steroid I've been taking to reduce brain swelling caused by the radiation). I'm hoping that change will help me sleep better through the night and suppress my appetite a little bit. I have completed 31 radiation treatments, with just 3 to go. After next Wednesday, I'll get a month off from both the radiation treatments and the chemo capsules I've been taking every night.

No chocolate malt today - the pants keep getting tighter. I did, however, get a good sandwich from Jimmy John's. It was way better than the Weight Watchers meals I used to eat every day for lunch.

Yesterday afternoon, Andy and Tory came up and helped do some work around the house, then they went to school and helped Carole start getting her room ready for the start of the new year. In the middle of it all, Tory took Carole for a massage. They both came back saying they felt much more relaxed. During that time, Andy stayed here and trimmed some bushes, touched up some spots that needed painting and a few other odds and ends while I napped. Tough life for me, huh?

Today was a rainy day in Iowa, so Carole went to a movie with a friend while I napped for a while. We're anxiously awaiting the arrival of the Lindholms, our old neighbors from down the street and friends from Finland. They should be here on Sunday afternoon. I know we have a lot of news to catch up on.

Brian thinks I look like Uncle Fester. Say it ain't so! I'm definitely not ready to agree with him.
There's not much new to report here, just five radiation treatments to go, then a month off. I still get tired in the afternoon, and I'm working about half time. I'm ready for the daily ride to Iowa City to be over, and I'm sure Carole is ready for the daily drive to be finished. Everyone at the U of I Hospitals & Clinics has made the experience as good as could be expected, but that doesn't mean I'm not ready for the treatments to end. On the way home today, we stopped at Whitey's. They're still at the top of my chocolate malt list, and for those of you wondering, it's always chocolate. I know what I like best, and I don't get the urge to switch (I do wish they had Leffe Bruin on tap, though).
Carole and I have been watching a lot of TV on DVD's the past few weeks. We've made it through the first seasons of "Lost" and "The Unit", and we're hooked on both. Now we've started the second season of "Lost". Hopefully it will be as good as the first season. We also just finished watching the Reds beat the Cubs. I don't quite know how that happened because the Reds have spent the last two weeks making everybody they play look like World Champions. What can I say, in spite of the way they've been playing, I'm still a Reds fan.
I'll post another update after Friday's visit with the doctor. Hopefully, there will be nothing new to report.

Monday, August 3rd

I got what was left of my hair cut yesterday. What remains is my "old man" look. You can see the field of radiation is fairly large because that's what has caused all the hair loss. The doctors have told me the chemo drug I'm taking does not typically cause any hair loss. I sure hope they're frying the real target with the radiation, and not just my hair. I'm still feeling pretty well, and I just have seven more radiation treatments left, at least for now. Once the radiation is finished, I know I'll have a month without any radiation or chemo. After that, it's another MRI, then evaluate it and decide the best course from there.
This weekend was relatively restful. My lovely bride and I ran several errands on Saturday morning and went to dinner with friends on Saturday evening - veal parmigiana - and I had heartburn all night.
Carole has been a real trooper through all of this. She has basically given up her whole summer (a big deal for a teacher) to take care of me, and she's managed to do it complaining a lot less than I have.
Because of my weight gain (and tight pants), I decided on Friday afternoon that I wouldn't have another chocolate malt until at least today, but last night a friend brought one to my house. Of course, I couldn't turn it down. I didn't have one today to make up for the "extra" one I had yesterday.
Thanks again to everyone for the cards and comments that seem to keep coming every day. Every single one is appreciated.

Friday, July 31st

The radiation "boost" started today, and I have to say, there didn't seem to be much change from before. I only have 8 more radiation treatments to go! Fridays are my normal day for the nurses to check my blood pressure (up a touch this week), temperature (normal) and my weight (up 2 lbs.; thanks, chocolate malts). After those pleasantries, we met with my radiation oncologist, Dr. Smith. He didn't say anything about the blood pressure or my weight, so I'm working on the assumption that neither is a problem. Dr. Smith seems more interested that I still have a healthy appetite, and that I am not losing weight. He checked my scalp (and the scar from the biopsy) and said everything looked good -two thumbs up, I guess. He didn't even review this week's blood work with me, and I didn't get a call from my chemo oncologist which is a good indication all the counts are within the normal levels. I'm still feeling pretty well, the only time I really get tired is the middle of each afternoon, when I usually nap for about an hour. No other significant side-effects except for the major hair loss from the radiation. I'll be getting another haircut on Sunday afternoon.
On the way home from last Wednesday's treatment, Carole and I stopped at Red Robin, so I could try one of their chocolate malts. I liked getting all the extras in the ice cold stainless steel cup (something I didn't get, but expected from Steak & Shake). The "malt" flavor seemed to be missing something, so I've decided it ended up not being in my top 5. To eat, I ordered their Royal Red Robin Burger (the one with a fried egg on top) which was excellent, and I would recommend as long as you like eggs.
It turns out I made a big mistake a couple of days ago when I mentioned that I had not sorted through my drawers yet. It seems Carole had forgotten about it, and the reminder means I have a job this weekend. I can't wait!
Carole got out golfing yesterday afternoon, and she's playing in the Linn-Mar Foundation Outing today. To be safe, I think I won't talk about how she feels about her game (she did have a couple of pars yesterday). At least her ankle and hip seem to be holding up okay.
We don't have any travel plans this weekend. I think I still need to recover from last weekend's trip to Chicago. However, we're looking forward to going to dinner on Saturday evening with some good friends. Is it me, or does my life revolve around food?
I hope you are all doing well!

Tuesday, July 28th

We finally got to talk with my radiation oncologist today about last week's MRI. We didn't learn much new. You're really not supposed to analyze this MRI too much because it's not uncommon to get false readings from the images. They tell me if you want to measure any changes in the tumor(s), you need to wait until 30 days after you finish radiation before getting and evaluating a new MRI. That gives the swelling a chance to go down. The pictures from last week will be used to refine the target of the radiation I'm getting every day. Those adjustments will be implemented with this Friday's treatment. The plan is to continue the course that was originally planned. I still don't have many side-effects from the chemo, but the radiation seems to be having a cumulative effect because I'm starting to get a little bit more tired every day. I'm still working for Genencor from home about 4 hours a day - mornings are best.
Food still tastes great to me, and I do still have my appetite, and it is growing (like my gut). I got Dairy Queen malts both yesterday and today - still good! Andy suggested a couple of different places to try in Iowa City, but I need to find out exactly where they are.
Carole started cleaning carpets today. She's driving me crazy with all her busy work, but the good news is, I still haven't had to sort through all of my drawers. I think Carole needs to get out golfing again before school starts. She needs to release some frustration, and I'd prefer it not be on me.
Thanks again to everyone for all of your kind thoughts, your prayers and especially your friendship. I can't put it into words, but I really appreciate everything you've done for Carole and me.

Last Friday's treatment and visit with the doctor was uneventful. I gained about 1 1/2 pounds last week, but the doctor didn't say anything about it. I guess that means I don't need to worry about it, either. When we left the hospital, Brian wanted to try a chocolate malt from Whitey's. Unfortunately, we arrived just after a full daycare class of kids arrived, so we decided to skip Whitey's and go to Dairy Queen instead. It was good, but Brian and I were both a little disappointed that we missed Whitey's. After we got to Chicago and got checked in the hotel, we met Carole's brother, Jim, his wife, Nancy, their oldest daughter Christine her husband, Christopher, and their boys Brad and Ben at the Weber Grill Restaurant in Lombard. It was great food and company. Of course, I ate too much again.

On Saturday, we went to the Reds vs. Cubs game.


Brian, me, Carole and her brother, Jim (one Cubs fan in the bunch)

Why did I ever ask how many games the Reds could lose in a row? It was a perfect day for a baseball game, but the result wasn't what I had hoped for.


Brian and me (that's Carole's Leffe Bruin in the foreground) Cheers!

After the game, we went to the Hopleaf Bar north of Wrigley Field that has Leffe Bruin (my all-time favorite beer) on tap. Thanks to Tory for the suggestion. I have to admit the Leffe Bruin tasted better than any of the chocolate milkshakes or malts I have tried so far. On Saturday evening, we went to Portillo's, had an Italian Beef Sandwich and one of their chocolate malts. Maybe it was the Leffe still being on my mind, but the malt was not quite as good as one from Dairy Queen.
Sunday morning, we were up early and on our way back to Cedar Rapids. We met Andy and Tory for lunch in Iowa City, and we were back home by about 1:30 PM. It was a fun and tiring weekend. Carole has been doing laundry since we got home, and I think she's trying to get fired up to resume driving to Iowa City every day. I keep telling her I'll drive, but she's not very agreeable to that idea.
Tomorrow, we meet with the radiation oncologist who will review last Thursday's MRI with us and discuss any changes they will, or have already made, in the radiation treatments. I wish I knew whether or not I should be nervous about what he will say, but I really don't have a clue.

Thursday, July 23rd

Today, Carole and I took my car in for service, then I had my usual radiation treatment. Immediately after that I had an MRI. Let me assure you that spending 45 minutes getting rattled and shaken around in your own private tunnel is no fun. After that, the day got better. We went to Whitey's on Washington Street in Iowa City, and I had the best chocolate malt I've tasted so far - a new #1. It was totally different than the one I had last week at the Whitey's in Coral Ridge Mall. Just goes to show that the person actually making the the malt makes all the difference. After the malt, we went to lunch at Z'marik's Noodle Café which was excellent as well. Then we went to Andy and Tory's house and I crashed on their couch in front of the television while we waited for the car to be ready. Carole ended up taking a walk around the block while I was resting. The car was ready at about 2:45, and ended up costing less than I expected. That was a nice surprise.
Brian is on his way to Cedar Rapids tonight, then after tomorrow's radiation and doctor's appointment, we're headed to Chicago for the weekend where we'll visit Carole's brother and a big part of his family and go to the Reds vs. Cubs game on Saturday. I'll be wearing all my Reds gear! How many games in a row can the Reds lose? Next update probably won't be until Sunday or Monday.

Wednesday, July 22nd

Not much new to report today. I got poked again, the normal Wednesday blood draw. I haven't experienced any new side effects, either - that's a good thing. I still get pretty tired in the middle of each afternoon. The doctors have told me that's from the radiation, and it's normal. Carole has assured me my head does not glow in the dark. Tomorrow I get another MRI. The images from this MRI will be used to refocus and pinpoint the radiation for the final 14 treatments. The technicians keep calling it a "boost", but when I asked today, they told me it would not be a higher dose of radiation, just a fine tuning of the location - the doctors review all the images with the Physics department to determine exactly how to aim the radiation so it hits the right spot. The technology is amazing.
No milkshake today. Bummer! I keep reminding myself they're going to weigh me again on Friday.

Monday, July 20th

Today was radiation treatment #17 of 34, so I'm halfway through them. It seems to me the combination of radiation and chemotherapy are helping because I feel like I am able to walk, stand up, and bend over better then I could before I went to the hospital. I'm still very impressed with everyone I deal with at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. From parking attendants to receptionists to technicians to the nurses and doctors, they are all professional, caring people that I trust completely. It's so nice not to have to stress about that.
Carole and I had a good weekend. We made it through my side of the closet, sorting through what I still wear and use, but I was able to convince her we didn't need to go through all my drawers of stuff yet. It was just a temporary victory, but a victory just the same. On Saturday evening we went to see Angels and Demons. I enjoyed it. The ending is pretty far-fetched, but I knew that in advance from the book. I really liked seeing many of the places we were able to see when we visited Rome and year and a half ago. It made the whole experience more personal. After church on Sunday, we did some shopping - no shoes this time, just groceries. Then later Sunday afternoon, we took a walk around the block. It think it was good for both of us. I grilled some chicken for dinner, then the nightly round of pills started.
I tried a milkshake from Kool Moo in Cedar Rapids on Sunday afternoon. When they served it with a skinny straw, I was skeptical with good reason. It was very tasty, but just not as thick and rich as DQ or many of the others I've tried. We stopped at DQ today on the way home from Iowa City. The milkshake really hit the spot. My calorie intake is up (a bunch), but I think you can tell I've decided not to worry about that right now.

Saturday, July 18th

I just got my best night of sleep since before I went into the hospital. I hope Carole slept as well as I did. She's been awesome, but I wish she would worry more about taking care of herself instead of babying me. I think the only time she complains is when I complain about her driving. Does that sound like Carole? I'm trying to learn to bite my tongue, and think I'm getting better about that, but that's not me, either. Carole has been on a real clean up kick for the last few weeks. Today the plan is to go through my side of the closet and get rid of the things I don't wear or use anymore. Can you feel my excitement?
Yesterday's visit with the radiation oncologist went very well. He reviewed my blood work which was all good. My weight went down about two pounds, so I can continue with my milk shake therapy. My blood pressure is still on the high side, but not as bad as I thought it would be. The b.p. probably went down late in the day after I got a call from work. Thanks, John! I really appreciate your help. I know the call helped me sleep better last night.
After the doctor visit, Carole and I went to Steak & Shake for lunch. Of course, I had a chocolate shake. Carole had a mint shake that I think she thought was too "minty". My shake had ice crystals in it, so it wasn't quite as smooth as a DQ shake, but it tasted great. These evaluations are too subjective and I may have to put an end to them. I think I should just sit back and enjoy all of the different ones I try.

Thursday, July 16th

I have a newer look, the radiation has done a pretty good number on my hair. The shower drain is covered every day. The radiation technicians tell me this just means what they are doing is working. I still say it's just hair, and not that big a deal, but if you see me away from home, you can be sure I'll be wearing a hat!
The radiation treatments are going well, and other than being a little more tired than normal in the late afternoon, I haven't experienced any major side effects. The chemo pills I take every night are not causing any problems, either. I have an MRI scheduled for next Thursday that will not be used as a diagnostic image, just one to be used to fine tune the last 14 radiation treatments which will be boosted from the first 20. I am continuing to work from home a part of each day, and even negotiated a couple of really good deals for Genencor this week. I'm still enjoying my milkshakes about every other day. I tried a chocolate shake from Whitey's yesterday, but I'm withholding a rating until I try another from their other location in Iowa City. I don't want to make any rash judgments, you know. It seems strange to me that I get my brain fried for 15 - 20 minutes, then drink a shake and get brain freeze, and the combination actually makes me feel better - someone told me it's the protein that helps.
I've spent 15 - 20 hours each of the past few weeks either on hold with Blue Cross or CVS/Caremark (Danisco's prescription drug provider) or waiting for a doctor or pharmacy to hear back from one of them. There's a huge mountain of red tape, paperwork and bureaucracy that has to be worked through, and no one ready to let you know what questions you need to ask or even who to ask so it's frustrating and stressful. However, in the end everything has worked out okay. I got my first shipment of chemo pills via UPS today. Amazing, several thousand dollars worth of pills, and the driver rang the doorbell, left the package between the screen door and the front door, ran back to his truck and drove away, but I did get the pills. So far the only thing the insurance doesn't want to cover is my ambulance ride from St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids to the Emergency Room at The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. The reason given was they don't cover non-emergency services. I have filed a written appeal - we'll see what they say.
Thanks again for all your cards, comments, prayers, well wishes and emails. I enjoy all of them.

Tuesday, July 14th

The radiation and chemo treatments continue and I'm still doing pretty well. I get fairly tired in the middle of the afternoon, and I have a huge bald spot on top of my head, but other than that, no major issues. Carole still babies me (most of the time) and refuses to let me drive. She says I don't need to. I've worked about four hours each day for several days now, which I enjoy and it makes me feel like I'm doing something useful. I have enjoyed reading all your emails and comments on the blog. Thanks for all of your encouragement!
Carole actually got out on the golf course yesterday. She wasn't happy with the way she played, but that's golf. I'm hoping to get out myself in late August or September after my radiation treatments end.
Only 1 milk shake so far this week - DQ, so no new ratings.

Monday, July, 13th

I still feel great - stronger every day. The bald spot is growing, but that's just hair (or lack of it), and I have a few hats I can use to cover it up. Sure hope this means the treatments are working. Carole and I had another great weekend. We went to dinner with good friends on Saturday evening - the doctor is letting me have a bottle of beer each day, which I'm not doing every day, but Saturday's tasted really good. On Sunday, we went to church, did a little bit of grocery shopping, and then Andy, Tory and Tory's parents, Dan and Sue came over for dinner. It was super to be able to sit down and just talk about a lot of different things with them. Andy and Tory took care of almost all of the work from prep to clean up, so I didn't have to do anything except sit, talk and drink another beer. Tough duty, huh?
I have to say, I'm learning to value friends and family more than ever before (who knows why it took so long). I appreciate the conversations with all of you, and I really like hearing from you.
I've heard some of you are having problems posting comments on the blog or would prefer not posting a public comment, so I've added a link to my gmail address to my profile. In the beginning of all this, I wasn't sure how I would feel or if I would want to be checking too many emails, but if you want to send me a note, please do so. I enjoy hearing from you!
No chocolate shakes since Friday - Carole is still staying away from them. Maybe I'll have another later today.

New Look

The hair started falling out Thursday morning, so I made a preemptive move today. Thanks, Kim! I think I should have done this a long time ago.

For those of you asking, my chocolate shake favorites are:
1. United Dairy Farmers - Cincinnati
2. Dairy Queen
3. Culver's
It's important to note that the study is absolutely incomplete and not scientific. I'm sure several of you would not agree with my rankings. I still have several I want to taste - Whitey's is at the top of that list.
McDonald's is in last place, and I suspect they will stay there.

Friday's Doctor Visits

My radiation treatment and visit with the radiation oncologist was on schedule yesterday. It was treatment #11 of 34. Everything looks good and he'll see me again weekly. I'll get another MRI in about two weeks - not a diagnostic image, but one that will be used to fine tune the target of the radiation treatments.
As predicted, the chemo oncologist was running a "little" late. My appointment was at 3:30, and he walked into the examination room at 5:00. I was already nervous about what he might have to say, so I was pretty stressed before he came in. It was good that Andy and Carole were there to remind me to calm down and remember to ask all the right questions - not that it really helped, but they tried. Everything ended up going well with this examination too, and the good news is, I won't have another appointment with this doctor until I'm finished with my radiation treatments. I really trust the doctor, but he drives me crazy (I know, it's a short trip) with his lack of a schedule.
I ended up losing about half a pound last week, so we stopped at Culver's for something to eat on the way out of Iowa City. I needed to compare their chocolate shakes with all the others I've been trying.
Thanks to my brother, Mark for by adding a comment clarifying who is younger. I think I'll take it as a compliment that he wasn't sure everyone could tell just by looking at the picture.

Thursday, July 9th

There's really nothing new to report today. All the treatments are still going okay. I'm still not getting too fatigued, I still have my hair and I'm not experiencing any shortness of breath. I went to work yesterday afternoon for about 2 1/2 hours and worked from home for quite a while today. It feels good to do something useful. Carole and I took a walk around the block this afternoon which felt good, too.
Tomorrow we meet with both the radiation oncologist and the chemo oncologist (the talker). That appointment isn't until 3:30, so we may be at the hospital until 7:00 PM. After that the battle with Caremark will begin. I'll update the blog either tomorrow or Saturday with an update about what the doctors have to say.

Pictures from 4th of July Weekend

Jeff and Paul - Go Reds!

Carole with her sister, Jan, and her mother, Ailene

Me with my brother, Mark. No family resemblance, right?

Pictures from Father's Day

Jeff, Brian, Andy and me

Smoked ribs, barbecued ribs and the "Bacon Explosion"

Carole, Paul, Andy and Tory

Carole, Paul and Brian

Carole, Paul, Jeff and Cathy

Tuesday, July 7th

I had a super weekend in Cincinnati. Carole and I returned to Cedar Rapids Monday morning, so the 5:30 AM wake up call was not a lot of fun, but it was worth it to be able to stay an extra day. I got my 4th birthday dinner (in 4 days) last night, then had friends come over for dessert. I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow last night at 10:00 PM because I didn't get a chance to nap all day, but I wouldn't have changed anything. Now I need to change my focus away from food. I've definitely been eating way too much.
I've continued with the chemo drugs every day, and my radiation treatments resumed yesterday after a three day layoff. They will continue Monday through Friday for another 5-6 weeks. So far, I haven't seen any major side effects from either - no major fatigue and no hair loss (but they tell me that will come), and I feel like I am walking stronger and straighter than I was four weeks ago. I keep telling Carole to give me the car keys, but she keeps telling me I don't need to drive. It's kind of like the opposite of Driving Miss Daisy.
Thanks again for all your thoughts, prayers, gifts, emails, calls and concerns. I know I've said it before, but your support has been overwhelming.
Thanks!

4th of July Weekend

The last two days have been busy! Carole and I hopped on a plane to Cincinnati on Thursday after my radiation treatment and took advantage of the direct flight from Cedar Rapids before it's no longer available in a few weeks. Don't worry the doctor said it would be fine. We knew Brian and Karen would be here as well as Carole's mom, Ailene. Carole's sister, Jan and her boys, Ryan and Tyler are here to visit with as well, but I was in for another surprise. Late Thursday evening Jeff and Cathy walked in. They had driven 12 hours from Fort Stewart, GA. Then, in the middle of Friday afternoon, Andy and Tory walked in about the same time as my brother, Mark, his wife, Brenda and their daughter, Katie. They all had long drives, too. So, we had a surprise birthday party for me (a couple of days early). It was nice to be able to sit and talk with everyone. It's still humbling to see how much people care. It's one of those things you think you know, but you never really understand how much.
Naturally, the food was awesome, and I have to admit, we topped it off with Fresh Peach cream from United Dairy Farmers that is now at the top of my list of favorites. Uskomatonta! (Spelling correction - thanks, Bengt.) By the way, it's Finnish for "unbelievable", and is one of only two or three Finnish words I know.
I didn't get on a scale yesterday, but there's no doubt which way it tipped.
I still have plenty of energy, so I'll keep going. Today, we're off to the Great America Ballpark to watch the Reds play the Cardinals (I'd like to see Albert Pujols have an off day).

Thursday, July 2nd

Yesterday's visit with the doctor was uneventful. No problems or issues to report, but we really didn't expect any yet. Fatigue hasn't started kicking in and I still have my hair (but I expect to lose it in patches). The next time you see me, I may have a buzz cut.
I got an unexpected surprise from my friends at Genencor yesterday. They are paying a lawn service to mow and trim my lawn for the rest of the summer! Of course, I would have said no if they had asked, but what a great gift! I don't trust myself to keep my feet out from under the mower. Plus, Carole had one of her ankles fused last Fall which means it doesn't bend at all, and she can't safely push a mower either. I am continually amazed at everyone's support and friendship. You're all special people.
I love reading your comments, but I can't believe you want to read my notes. They aren't very exciting. Thanks for all your thoughts, prayers and well wishes.
I'm checking my work email daily. It's actually therapeutic for me to pay attention to work, plus the doctor keeps suggesting that I stay as active as possible.
Today's frustration is with Caremark, our prescription drug provider. My chemo doctor has prescribed an anti-nausea pill to be taken every day before I take my chemo medicine (7 days per week). I didn't know it until yesterday, but Caremark only would allow the U of I Hospital Pharmacy to give me 9 pills for 25 days, those first 9 will be gone this Saturday. After that, my doctor and I have to fill out paperwork and request that they send me the rest of the prescription in the mail. Trouble is, I didn't know until yesterday that I couldn't get a refill without all the extra work, and there's not enough time for Caremark to get me more pills until next week which isn't soon enough. You guys know me, I just love it when somebody tells me they can' t do something because of our contract.
In the end, it will all work out okay, I can buy 9 more pills myself from the pharmacy - only about $25 - and the doctor will fill out paperwork telling Caremark why I need them. With any luck, I'll get reimbursed, but if not, it's just $25. I have to be careful not to complain too much, Caremark is covering my expensive chemo drugs very well.
By the way, Carole and I stopped at McDonald's and grabbed a hot fudge sundae on the way home from yesterday's treatment. Just me, not Carole. She's still being good. The sundae was just okay - definitely not up to DQ's standards. Not surprisingly, my weight was up again yesterday.

Tuesday, June 30th

Quick trip to to Iowa City today. My appointment was at 1:15, and I had finished the radiation and we were back in the car and on our way home by 1:30. Still no issues with either the radiation or the chemo, but it may take a few days for everything to really kick in.
Carole and I went to a vocal concert tonight that was part of the Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival. It was really good, but I'm too emotional right now, and I started to break up when they did the fallen soldier tribute. They stuck the rifle bayonette in the sandbag, and hung the helmet and dogtags on it.
Tomorrow we meet with the radiation oncologist - don't expect any problems, but we'll see what he has to say.
No milkshake today, but I had a big piece of cake. I put on jeans to go to the concert tonight, and I could barely get them zipped up.

Monday's Highlight

On the way back from today's radiation appointment, I asked Carole to stop at Dairy Queen (which she did because she always does what I want), and I ordered a chocolate shake. It's been 7 or 8 years since I had one of these, and I had forgotten how much I enjoy them. It was awesome!

Sunday's Update

Two days of chemo down, and I've learned a little about what and when I can eat, but no major problems yet. I'll take the chemo medication 7 days a week, and get radiation 5 days a week for about 7 weeks. I'm actually feeling pretty well - just a little light headed when I stand up. Carole still does all the driving, but I think I could do it without any issues. We managed to get out of the house and go shopping yesterday. Buying Carole a new pair of shoes wasn't my idea of a lot of fun, but it was nice to get out of the house for a while. We did manage to go to Target as well, so the trip wasn't too bad. This morning we went to church. It bothered me a lot when I heard my name on the prayer list, but then I realized a lot of people really do care, and I really appreciate it.
After I watched the U.S. lose to Brazil in the soccer game, Carole and I went out to find new shrubs for the front of the house. After that I felt well enough to fire up the grill and cook some salmon. I'm thankful I feel well enough to get out and around, and I plan to stay as active as I can.
Thanks again for everyone's thoughts and prayers.

Radiation and Chemo Have Started

My radiation treatments started on Thursday and my first chemo pill comes tonight. It was a long day at the hospital today. We started with an appointment with the pill pushing chemo doctor at 10:00 AM, then had appointment for radiation, and met with the radiation oncologist after that. In the meantime, Andy stayed with me while Carole and Brian went to the hospital pharmacy to start getting all the new pills I need to take- an antibiotic, a nausea drug and the chemo pills. The pharmacy was not able to fill prescription for the chemo drug because I was supposed to have pre-approval for it, and buy it through the mail from Blue Cross's pharmacy. It didn't seem to matter that I didn't know what I needed to get pre-approval for or that I needed to start taking it tonight. In the end, after about a four hour delay, we were able to get a one time exemption and got the prescription filled. I can't complain too much because the pharmacist told us the pills usually cost about $5000 and we had a co-pay of $150.
So far the radiation hasn't bothered me, and we'll see how the chemo goes after a few weeks. Everyone at the hospital has been really great, but I know Carole is already getting tired of the drive.
It was great to have Andy, Tory, Brian, Jeff and Cathy here for Father's Day, and Carole's mom, Ailene here for most of the week. I'm really humbled by all the support we've received from family and friends. Your prayers (I've been told there are over a million people praying for me), cards, comments, food, help mowing the lawn, etc. are all appreciated. Thanks!

Radiation starts Thursday

We met with the radiology oncologist Tuesday afternoon and went through a lot of preparatory work for the radiology treatments that will start Thursday. Dad had a personal pillow and mask made (designed to keep him in place), as well as a bite mold that will connect to some sensors to make sure that he moves no more than 0.5mm during the treatments. They also performed a new CT scan and MRI so that they could map the treatment. The technology is pretty amazing, and I think we're all a bit anxious to get things started.

We'll meet with the chemotherapy doctor on Friday morning and should begin that treatment as well. Right now the goal is to stop the growth in the affected areas. We'll figure out in several weeks if surgery may yet be needed.