It has been a most enjoyable Thanksgiving for us this year. I had asked about 14 people to come to lunch. I only had eight. One of which didn't stay for lunch but she brought me a beautiful Christmas cactus. I will try to take a photo and get it on here.
On Tuesday, Michael and I went to the hospital for his chemo treatment. While he was doing his thing in the Oncology department, I went to the Primary care clinic and saw my doctor. My arms and hands have been numb and I needed to let him know that it was getting worse and that I had started dropping things. I already know that I have C2 through C6 compressed and there are nerves being pinched. I also know that I have carpel tunnel on both hands. I have been putting off my problems in order to be there for Michael but it has come to a point where I need to take care of this.
So he told me that I would be getting a Cat scan of my chest (he is going to look at my graft to make sure it is ok) and he is setting me up for a nerve induction test. Also this past week, I broke the back part of one of my eye teeth. It looks fine from the front but it is sheered off in the back and it is up above the gum line. I am going to assume that they will have to pull it. Not looking forward to this one as it is right in front and it will be noticeable when I open my mouth. Guess I will have to close it more often. Yeah right!!!
Anyway, Michael got some good news at the docs office. The chemo treatments and the hormone therapy are working. His PSA level is going down. It has dropped by 50 percent since the last of October. We are really happy. He had only had two chemo treatments and has had only one issue.. he is tired. So this coming week, he will be having a surgery to put in a portacath. They will put it in his chest and when they need to draw blood or give him his chemo, they will not have to start and IV. They can pull and push through this catheter port.
We have had prayers being said for us and we are very appreciative. We thank you all for your concern and thoughts. Michael keeps on fighting the good fight.
We have a friend here who Michael and I have known for over 30 years. I ask you to pray for him. He went to the doctor on Monday and found out that his cancer is growing. The persons who diagnosed him in Corpus Christi didn't think about doing surgery and taking out the tumor while it was small. They just let it go. I am not sure how they can live with themselves when they do this. It seems like the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing half the time. Anyway, they have told him that he might not make it until Christmas. Please pray for him and his family. His grandson, just got out of the hospital after having a surgery in which the doctors put a tube from his brain down to his pelvis to help regulate the pressure in his head. The boy has Pfieffer's Syndrome/Disease. This little boy (7) has had more surgeries on his head than he is old. They also found out that he is losing his eyesight. Pray for this family please.
God Bless and Take care.
Lynn
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Green Mountain Coffee Fair Trade
Got my Bzz Agent kit with the coffee in it and tried a pot. It was great. Michael loved it and you all know how much Michael loves his coffee. In the kit they sent a bunch of coupons for the coffee. I have passed those out to friends and family and if I didn't get one to you, I will try to pass them along the next time I get a kit.
Now on to Michael. He started his chemo a couple of weeks ago and so far so good. His platelet count is low and his white blood cell count is also low. The second weeks chemo had to wait to make sure that the doc wanted to give it to him or not. But they did.
He had an appointment today to see if they would put a port a cath in his chest. It is a procedure that they do on chemo patients so that they do not have to start an IV on a weekly basis. It is easier on the patient and the nurses. So we went to this doc and he told Michael that he had to be off the chemo for at least two weeks in order for him to put one in. So we went to the oncology department and told them and they said that it was hooey. You see if there is a problem with the cath and it doesn't heal right, he could get sepsis and he could die. So we are a little leary about putting one in. But the nurses state that it is done all the time without problems.
So we told them (both the doctors) to argue it out and let us know what they decide. So we hope to hear from the doctors by tomorrow.
We had a wonderful visit with Kim and Mom this past few days. They had to stay an extra day as Mom's car died. It was the battery and as soon as the new one was purchased and put in, the car purred. So they stayed an extra night with us and it was great. I enjoyed their company and I know that Michael was glad to see them.
Michael has been tired and that is to be expected with the chemo but he would really like to hear from all the friends. Give him a call 316-323-7050. It is better to call him in the afternoon. I hope that all who read this will give him a call of encouragement.
Take care and God Bless.
Now on to Michael. He started his chemo a couple of weeks ago and so far so good. His platelet count is low and his white blood cell count is also low. The second weeks chemo had to wait to make sure that the doc wanted to give it to him or not. But they did.
He had an appointment today to see if they would put a port a cath in his chest. It is a procedure that they do on chemo patients so that they do not have to start an IV on a weekly basis. It is easier on the patient and the nurses. So we went to this doc and he told Michael that he had to be off the chemo for at least two weeks in order for him to put one in. So we went to the oncology department and told them and they said that it was hooey. You see if there is a problem with the cath and it doesn't heal right, he could get sepsis and he could die. So we are a little leary about putting one in. But the nurses state that it is done all the time without problems.
So we told them (both the doctors) to argue it out and let us know what they decide. So we hope to hear from the doctors by tomorrow.
We had a wonderful visit with Kim and Mom this past few days. They had to stay an extra day as Mom's car died. It was the battery and as soon as the new one was purchased and put in, the car purred. So they stayed an extra night with us and it was great. I enjoyed their company and I know that Michael was glad to see them.
Michael has been tired and that is to be expected with the chemo but he would really like to hear from all the friends. Give him a call 316-323-7050. It is better to call him in the afternoon. I hope that all who read this will give him a call of encouragement.
Take care and God Bless.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
New place- New Plans
The place that we had been living at was starting to be a problem. The apartment used to be a stable and there were drafts and other issues with the place. The landlord had put the place up for sale when his sister moved out. So Michael and I started looking for a warmer place for us for winter is starting to show up in Central Kansas.
We found a place not too far from our last place. Our new address is 206 E 18th St North, Wichita, KS 67214. The place is just a bit bigger than the old place and it has hardwood floors. It is a residence for seniors and the place is somewhat quiet. The first night that we were here, the gentleman next door had a seizure and the ambulance was called. We sat on the front porch watching as they took him to the hospital. Told the other residents that if this was quiet, I think that we will continue looking for another place. Honestly, the place is beautiful. It is an old brick building that was built in the 30's but has been refurbished. All new appliances and new drywall. New windows and alot of light. We both like the place. Please feel free to write and let us know what is happening with Terlingua and the surrounding area.
Michael finished his radiation treatments last Friday. The main reason for the treatments was to try to curb the pain that he was in. It didn't work as far as we can see but the doc was optimistic that it would take a little longer to do the job. He said that we might not see results for a couple of weeks after the treatments so we are praying that he is correct and that it does indeed work.
He had an appointment with his oncologist last Tuesday. The PSA level is still going up. It is currently at 355.. normal is less than 4. So the doctor suggested that Michael try the chemo therapy to see if it might slow the cancer down. Michael has the most aggressive kind of advanced prostate cancer that you can have. OF COURSE HE DOES... HE NEVER DOES ANYTHING HALF HEARTED..
Anyway, the doctor said that he could have a massive dose and then wait three weeks and come to get another or he could have a smaller dose on a weekly basis and that it would be a little easier on his body. He asked me what I thought. I told him that it was really his choice but if I were going to fight this disease, that I would take the chemo. He has been adamant about not wanting to take the chemo but I think that he wants to fight for as long as he can.
He has lost a bunch of weight and is down to 182 now. I am trying to feed him all the time and he says that everything tastes like cardboard or it has no taste at all. So I have started giving him Ensure and Boost on a daily basis. If I can't get the food in him at least I will get the protein and carbs in him that way.
So it is back to wait and see and hope and pray that the treatment works. We talked with Michael's mom and sister and they will be making a trip up to see him. His other two sisters are coming up at Thanksgiving time and if all is working OK, we will be back in Terlingua after the 1st of the year. If Hospice had services down in that area, we would be home sooner. But they do not and with the scare that we had a few weeks ago with his kidneys, hydration and his heart, we can't afford to come home as we couldn't get him to the hospital in time to save his life. I am doing the best that I can to keep him comfortable and healthy enough so that we can eventually come home. I hope that you all understand. The only reason that we are staying up in KS is that the VA in Texas wouldn't get him the treatment that he needed down there and this VA in KS is.
Hard to believe that a 100 percent disabled veteran from the Vietnam war can't get the services that are needed and deserved. Thank you Mr Obama.
By the way, we both sent in our absentee ballots and I have returned them by overnight mail. YEAH!!! I can only hope and pray that this is only a one term president.
God Bless and Take Care.
We found a place not too far from our last place. Our new address is 206 E 18th St North, Wichita, KS 67214. The place is just a bit bigger than the old place and it has hardwood floors. It is a residence for seniors and the place is somewhat quiet. The first night that we were here, the gentleman next door had a seizure and the ambulance was called. We sat on the front porch watching as they took him to the hospital. Told the other residents that if this was quiet, I think that we will continue looking for another place. Honestly, the place is beautiful. It is an old brick building that was built in the 30's but has been refurbished. All new appliances and new drywall. New windows and alot of light. We both like the place. Please feel free to write and let us know what is happening with Terlingua and the surrounding area.
Michael finished his radiation treatments last Friday. The main reason for the treatments was to try to curb the pain that he was in. It didn't work as far as we can see but the doc was optimistic that it would take a little longer to do the job. He said that we might not see results for a couple of weeks after the treatments so we are praying that he is correct and that it does indeed work.
He had an appointment with his oncologist last Tuesday. The PSA level is still going up. It is currently at 355.. normal is less than 4. So the doctor suggested that Michael try the chemo therapy to see if it might slow the cancer down. Michael has the most aggressive kind of advanced prostate cancer that you can have. OF COURSE HE DOES... HE NEVER DOES ANYTHING HALF HEARTED..
Anyway, the doctor said that he could have a massive dose and then wait three weeks and come to get another or he could have a smaller dose on a weekly basis and that it would be a little easier on his body. He asked me what I thought. I told him that it was really his choice but if I were going to fight this disease, that I would take the chemo. He has been adamant about not wanting to take the chemo but I think that he wants to fight for as long as he can.
He has lost a bunch of weight and is down to 182 now. I am trying to feed him all the time and he says that everything tastes like cardboard or it has no taste at all. So I have started giving him Ensure and Boost on a daily basis. If I can't get the food in him at least I will get the protein and carbs in him that way.
So it is back to wait and see and hope and pray that the treatment works. We talked with Michael's mom and sister and they will be making a trip up to see him. His other two sisters are coming up at Thanksgiving time and if all is working OK, we will be back in Terlingua after the 1st of the year. If Hospice had services down in that area, we would be home sooner. But they do not and with the scare that we had a few weeks ago with his kidneys, hydration and his heart, we can't afford to come home as we couldn't get him to the hospital in time to save his life. I am doing the best that I can to keep him comfortable and healthy enough so that we can eventually come home. I hope that you all understand. The only reason that we are staying up in KS is that the VA in Texas wouldn't get him the treatment that he needed down there and this VA in KS is.
Hard to believe that a 100 percent disabled veteran from the Vietnam war can't get the services that are needed and deserved. Thank you Mr Obama.
By the way, we both sent in our absentee ballots and I have returned them by overnight mail. YEAH!!! I can only hope and pray that this is only a one term president.
God Bless and Take Care.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Return to our Wichita Home
Brought Michael home from the hospital today. We had gone to our friend Tonya's home. She is a registered nurse and has worked in an ER for several years.
When Michael got up on Sunday morning we had planned on going to church. When he got up, he was disorientated and groggy. We couldn't keep him awake. Tonya told me to forget about church and get him back to Wichita to the VA hospital. So we headed for Wichita.
Got to the ER around noon on Sunday. By 6PM they had him admitted. His kidneys had started to shut down and his blood pressure was 66/33. They did multiple tests and he was starting to have renal failure but they were able to get them back to functioning. His electrolytes were imbalanced. So they tackled that problem and then started tackling his breathing problem. He has been coughing up phlegm on a daily basis and it appears to be an infection of some sort.
Well they found an infection but it was a UTI. So he is now on an antibiotic for that. They took him off of a couple of his meds that were not working.
Well I finally got him out of the hospital today around 2. Early enough so that I could take him over to the other hospital in town for his radiation treatment. The doc wants to see all the meds that he is taking at this time. I will have to bring the suitcase in with us tomorrow. Maybe they will take away a few more.
Needless to say, we were a bit scared for the past couple of days. Just hope to keep him healthy for at least a few years longer.
It has turned cold up here. We are due for a cold front tomorrow. Frost warnings on Fri to Sunday. Oh well, winter is coming.
BZz company sent me a kit for the Green Mountain Coffee Fair Trade. Below is the website...
<img src="http://img.bzzagent.com/image/GMCfairTrade.jpg?Type=activity&Activity=9081228831&Campaign=6979708601&Uid=1344355&token=7a5162d1047e8579c9579fe30429375f" alt=""/>
Take care and God Bless.
When Michael got up on Sunday morning we had planned on going to church. When he got up, he was disorientated and groggy. We couldn't keep him awake. Tonya told me to forget about church and get him back to Wichita to the VA hospital. So we headed for Wichita.
Got to the ER around noon on Sunday. By 6PM they had him admitted. His kidneys had started to shut down and his blood pressure was 66/33. They did multiple tests and he was starting to have renal failure but they were able to get them back to functioning. His electrolytes were imbalanced. So they tackled that problem and then started tackling his breathing problem. He has been coughing up phlegm on a daily basis and it appears to be an infection of some sort.
Well they found an infection but it was a UTI. So he is now on an antibiotic for that. They took him off of a couple of his meds that were not working.
Well I finally got him out of the hospital today around 2. Early enough so that I could take him over to the other hospital in town for his radiation treatment. The doc wants to see all the meds that he is taking at this time. I will have to bring the suitcase in with us tomorrow. Maybe they will take away a few more.
Needless to say, we were a bit scared for the past couple of days. Just hope to keep him healthy for at least a few years longer.
It has turned cold up here. We are due for a cold front tomorrow. Frost warnings on Fri to Sunday. Oh well, winter is coming.
BZz company sent me a kit for the Green Mountain Coffee Fair Trade. Below is the website...
<img src="http://img.bzzagent.com/image/GMCfairTrade.jpg?Type=activity&Activity=9081228831&Campaign=6979708601&Uid=1344355&token=7a5162d1047e8579c9579fe30429375f" alt=""/>
Take care and God Bless.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Radiation Days
Went to the consult with Dr. Rine at Wesley Medical Center today. He wants to start Michael on his radiation therapy starting on Monday. He will have to have it at the same time daily for 10 days. If it works, they will quit there and if it isn't they will do an additional 3 doses. The doctor says that he will not lose his hair or get sick.
We asked him why he was consulted to look at Michael. He stated that sometimes radiation takes care of pain also. So the doctors at the VA have sent him there for the pain issue rather than the mass in his lung and also in the lymph node near the lung.
The doc said that they will just watch the tumors in his lung and lymph node for right now. He also stated that the hormone therapy was done just last month so it is too soon to see if it will be working.
Continue to pray for Michael as he needs all the prayers that he can get. He is having swelling in his legs and is in constant pain. He is having problems walking now. The VA still hasn't gotten the scooter lift attached to the truck. We are waiting now for that to be done before we can get the scooter from the VA.
Michael found a chair that he would like to have. It is a lift chair with massage and heat. The company that is putting the scooter lift in the truck has it there in the office. Normal price on it is about 2200.00. We are going to call him on Monday to see if we can get a discount on it if we pay cash for it. Who knows? It might work.
Take care and God Bless.
Lynn & Michael
We asked him why he was consulted to look at Michael. He stated that sometimes radiation takes care of pain also. So the doctors at the VA have sent him there for the pain issue rather than the mass in his lung and also in the lymph node near the lung.
The doc said that they will just watch the tumors in his lung and lymph node for right now. He also stated that the hormone therapy was done just last month so it is too soon to see if it will be working.
Continue to pray for Michael as he needs all the prayers that he can get. He is having swelling in his legs and is in constant pain. He is having problems walking now. The VA still hasn't gotten the scooter lift attached to the truck. We are waiting now for that to be done before we can get the scooter from the VA.
Michael found a chair that he would like to have. It is a lift chair with massage and heat. The company that is putting the scooter lift in the truck has it there in the office. Normal price on it is about 2200.00. We are going to call him on Monday to see if we can get a discount on it if we pay cash for it. Who knows? It might work.
Take care and God Bless.
Lynn & Michael
Friday, October 5, 2012
News from KS
Well I have become a BZZ agent online. I test out new products and the company sends coupons for me and my friends on the stuff that they send out to me. The next item to be tested is Green Mountain Coffee. I will let you know how it is.
Now for news about Michael:
Last week they took a blood sample to see how the PSA level was doing. It has jumped from 200 to 246 within 2.5 weeks. Still have to go till the end of the month before we find out any other information from the doc.
He is scheduled for a radiation consult next Friday on the 12th. They will do a radiation treatment and set up consecutive treatments for the cancer in his lung and lymph node.
As far as the chemo, they will wait till the end of the month for that.
The problem this week is that his feet are swelling. They don't know why but he has some edema in the lower legs and feet. The doc put him on Lasix and potassium until the swelling goes down.
We have moved things around in the house and it is still not large enough for him to wheel the wheelchair around in here. We might have to move. Luckily, his daughter in law works at a place that rents to seniors. We will be looking at one either today or in the morning if I can get ahold of her.
He got his scooter on Wednesday of this past week. Went to go and get the lift installed on the truck and it wouldn't go all the way to the ground. Will have to wait until they call the VA and ok the other model. VA said that he can leave his scooter there until the lift gets installed.
The ramps for the door came in and the guy wouldn't attach them to the walk. He said that if he did, that they would bend. Well Michael rolled over one of them in his wheelchair and bent the damn thing. So much for trying to get the scooter in the house.
Hope all are well back home. Miss being in TX.
KS is starting to get cold and all the people around here are getting colds which are not good for Michael. Have to close for now and head up to the VA to get his prescription for the pain meds.
TA TA FOR NOW!!! Hugs to all.
Now for news about Michael:
Last week they took a blood sample to see how the PSA level was doing. It has jumped from 200 to 246 within 2.5 weeks. Still have to go till the end of the month before we find out any other information from the doc.
He is scheduled for a radiation consult next Friday on the 12th. They will do a radiation treatment and set up consecutive treatments for the cancer in his lung and lymph node.
As far as the chemo, they will wait till the end of the month for that.
The problem this week is that his feet are swelling. They don't know why but he has some edema in the lower legs and feet. The doc put him on Lasix and potassium until the swelling goes down.
We have moved things around in the house and it is still not large enough for him to wheel the wheelchair around in here. We might have to move. Luckily, his daughter in law works at a place that rents to seniors. We will be looking at one either today or in the morning if I can get ahold of her.
He got his scooter on Wednesday of this past week. Went to go and get the lift installed on the truck and it wouldn't go all the way to the ground. Will have to wait until they call the VA and ok the other model. VA said that he can leave his scooter there until the lift gets installed.
The ramps for the door came in and the guy wouldn't attach them to the walk. He said that if he did, that they would bend. Well Michael rolled over one of them in his wheelchair and bent the damn thing. So much for trying to get the scooter in the house.
Hope all are well back home. Miss being in TX.
KS is starting to get cold and all the people around here are getting colds which are not good for Michael. Have to close for now and head up to the VA to get his prescription for the pain meds.
TA TA FOR NOW!!! Hugs to all.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Celebration of a Life Ending Too Early
Heidebrecht,
Michael D. 1949-sooner than expected.
Michael was
born on June 13, 1949 in Newton, KS. He
graduated from Newton HS in 1967 and joined the Marine Corp. He was sent to Viet Nam and came back to
Wichita in 1977. He will leave behind 2
sons, Quenten and Everett Heidebrecht ,
extended family David and Kristen Musall. Also left behind will be grandsons Quenten Jr,
Benjamin, Gage, Memphis, Christian, and Cameron. Veronica and Ava Mae, his granddaughters,
will also be left without their grandpa.
Also left behind will be his good friend of 32 years and caregiver, Lynn
Musall.
Michael was
diagnosed with cancer as a result of Agent Orange exposure in Viet Nam.
All friends
and family are invited to a celebration of Michael’s life on Saturday,
September 22, 2012 at Harvey County Park West.
The Irish wake and party will start at noon at the white pavilion. Please bring a covered dish to pass and all
of your comments to share with Michael. This will be the only time that you can
sing his praises or his curses. Bring
your own beverages.
“ It is
better to be seen than viewed.”
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Medical Update
I realize that these blogs are not coming at a regular intervals but I am posting things here as soon as I can.
Michael went to the oncologist on Monday of this past week. He is seeing a Dr. Dakhil out at the VA hospital. Dr. Dakhil also has a practice in the Wichita area.
His PSA count has gone up to 200. Normal is 3. It was up from 145 a week ago. What this means is that the cancer is still growing. Dr. Dakhil wants Michael to start on the hormone therapy. What they do is give him an injection in the stomach just below the skin. The hormone pellet that is delivered will work for three months. He will get his next shot in December.
The doctor also found a nodule in his lung. It is 1.2cm and he isn't sure if it is cancer but he is assuming so. The lymph node that is near the lung is infected with the cancer also. He told us that since it is so small, he is going to leave it alone for a month to see if it grows at all. If it does, then it is probably cancer and he will address that next month. He is hoping that hormone therapy will work and will start to decrease the PSA count.
What the hormones do is removes all of the testosterone in his system. With the testosterone gone, the cancer has nothing to feed on and will starve to death.
They have changed his medicines also. They put him on a 3 day Fentyl patch and 30 mg quick release morphine. He is still in pain. Last night he fell asleep in the chair in the back room smoking a cigarette. When he woke, he came in the apt to go to bed. He woke up this afternoon at 2PM and fell back asleep at 5pm. I woke him up at 6 to make him eat supper. I am almost sure that the sleeping all the time is the pain meds. It is very frustrating to see him sleep is life away and yet I understand about the pain.
So he has to go back to the doctor in October. In the mean time, we are trying to do some small exercises to keep his muscle tone up. He has lost so much by not being able to move around without the pain.
I hope all of you out there are doing fine. I know that you miss him but we really do need to stay here to see if we can get this cancer whipped.
God Bless and Take Care.
Lynn & Michael
Michael went to the oncologist on Monday of this past week. He is seeing a Dr. Dakhil out at the VA hospital. Dr. Dakhil also has a practice in the Wichita area.
His PSA count has gone up to 200. Normal is 3. It was up from 145 a week ago. What this means is that the cancer is still growing. Dr. Dakhil wants Michael to start on the hormone therapy. What they do is give him an injection in the stomach just below the skin. The hormone pellet that is delivered will work for three months. He will get his next shot in December.
The doctor also found a nodule in his lung. It is 1.2cm and he isn't sure if it is cancer but he is assuming so. The lymph node that is near the lung is infected with the cancer also. He told us that since it is so small, he is going to leave it alone for a month to see if it grows at all. If it does, then it is probably cancer and he will address that next month. He is hoping that hormone therapy will work and will start to decrease the PSA count.
What the hormones do is removes all of the testosterone in his system. With the testosterone gone, the cancer has nothing to feed on and will starve to death.
They have changed his medicines also. They put him on a 3 day Fentyl patch and 30 mg quick release morphine. He is still in pain. Last night he fell asleep in the chair in the back room smoking a cigarette. When he woke, he came in the apt to go to bed. He woke up this afternoon at 2PM and fell back asleep at 5pm. I woke him up at 6 to make him eat supper. I am almost sure that the sleeping all the time is the pain meds. It is very frustrating to see him sleep is life away and yet I understand about the pain.
So he has to go back to the doctor in October. In the mean time, we are trying to do some small exercises to keep his muscle tone up. He has lost so much by not being able to move around without the pain.
I hope all of you out there are doing fine. I know that you miss him but we really do need to stay here to see if we can get this cancer whipped.
God Bless and Take Care.
Lynn & Michael
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Back In Oz Land
We arrived back in KS on Monday evening late. When we got here to the apartment, we found that the air conditioner was off. Very hot in the house so Michael went to the electric panel and tried to reset the circuit breaker only to find that when he did so, the panel sparked.
So on Tuesday morning, we called the landlord. He was over and he said that it wasn't repairable. So he came by on Wed morning with a new unit to install. It is much quieter than the old unit. We are cool and happy.
Michael is still in pain. We have talked about going back to TX when the docs say that there isn't anything that they can do. There is no hospice down there in TX where we are. There is no running water in the house so I would have to take him to the ranch bath house to give him showers. There is no family bathroom there so I would have to take him into either the women's or men's bathroom. There is not enough power at the house to run the equipment that he needs. Not sure what we are going to do yet. He is adamant about not dying in KS.
Went to the Warriors Society meeting last night. Met a group of wonderful people who asked to help out one of their own. He was in Iraq and was hurt badly. He and his wife of 2 months just lost their home and are living in a tent on someones property. He is injured and was told that he would not ever walk again by doctors in Germany. He is now on his feet and is fighting with the VA for the benefits that he is due because of being injured while fighting for his country. I am angered by the VA and what they are doing with the veterans in this United States.... Something has to be done. Another 4 years of Obama is not what this United States needs.
Enough with the political stuff.
Hope all are well.. Take care and God Bless.
So on Tuesday morning, we called the landlord. He was over and he said that it wasn't repairable. So he came by on Wed morning with a new unit to install. It is much quieter than the old unit. We are cool and happy.
Michael is still in pain. We have talked about going back to TX when the docs say that there isn't anything that they can do. There is no hospice down there in TX where we are. There is no running water in the house so I would have to take him to the ranch bath house to give him showers. There is no family bathroom there so I would have to take him into either the women's or men's bathroom. There is not enough power at the house to run the equipment that he needs. Not sure what we are going to do yet. He is adamant about not dying in KS.
Went to the Warriors Society meeting last night. Met a group of wonderful people who asked to help out one of their own. He was in Iraq and was hurt badly. He and his wife of 2 months just lost their home and are living in a tent on someones property. He is injured and was told that he would not ever walk again by doctors in Germany. He is now on his feet and is fighting with the VA for the benefits that he is due because of being injured while fighting for his country. I am angered by the VA and what they are doing with the veterans in this United States.... Something has to be done. Another 4 years of Obama is not what this United States needs.
Enough with the political stuff.
Hope all are well.. Take care and God Bless.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Back in Texas
We have returned to Texas for a short time to see family and friends. We arrived Friday the 24th after visiting with family and friends along the way down. We are ever so greatful to Jerry and Eva for letting us stay with them for a short time.
OK.. Here is the update...
Michael had the bone scan last week before we left Kansas. He watched as they took the photos. The results are less than what we hoped for. The cancer has spread to his bones and it doesn't look promising.
We have been most disappointed with the VA since originally he was notified by mail that he had cancer and then the next letter went into detail as to what type and how far the cancer had spread. The doctor had Michael's phone number and so does the VA. The doctor chose to just sent a letter to let him knowing that he had cancer. I don't know about any of you that are viewing this but it makes me just a little bit mad that he didn't even have the courtesy to contact us by phone or make an appointment with us to let us know in person of this devistating condition. Michael had to call him on his cell phone at home and ask him to see if we could come in the next day to find out more information. No mention was said during that meeting about talking with an oncologist or radiologist. We went to the advocate and complained for the second time in as many days.
We have been reading articles online and doing research on this disease. The docs have given us no timeline as to how much time he has left.. guess only God knows that information. The articles state about 2-6 months. I am always hoping and praying for more time.
So time to get things in order and get some things accomplished. I am grateful for all the prayers and well wishes being sent our way.
Will take the time to write more tomorrow if I can get a few minutes. We are down here in Terlingua for only a week and I hope that we can see all the people that we need to before we have to head back north for more tests. On our way down here, the VA called and they are now going to fee base him out to an outside doctor to get radiation and other services. Maybe they should have done that back in Feb when the tests came back as questionable and the machines that were needed to do the tests at the VA were down. TOO LITTLE TO LATE PEOPLE!!!!
God Bless and Take care.
OK.. Here is the update...
Michael had the bone scan last week before we left Kansas. He watched as they took the photos. The results are less than what we hoped for. The cancer has spread to his bones and it doesn't look promising.
We have been most disappointed with the VA since originally he was notified by mail that he had cancer and then the next letter went into detail as to what type and how far the cancer had spread. The doctor had Michael's phone number and so does the VA. The doctor chose to just sent a letter to let him knowing that he had cancer. I don't know about any of you that are viewing this but it makes me just a little bit mad that he didn't even have the courtesy to contact us by phone or make an appointment with us to let us know in person of this devistating condition. Michael had to call him on his cell phone at home and ask him to see if we could come in the next day to find out more information. No mention was said during that meeting about talking with an oncologist or radiologist. We went to the advocate and complained for the second time in as many days.
We have been reading articles online and doing research on this disease. The docs have given us no timeline as to how much time he has left.. guess only God knows that information. The articles state about 2-6 months. I am always hoping and praying for more time.
So time to get things in order and get some things accomplished. I am grateful for all the prayers and well wishes being sent our way.
Will take the time to write more tomorrow if I can get a few minutes. We are down here in Terlingua for only a week and I hope that we can see all the people that we need to before we have to head back north for more tests. On our way down here, the VA called and they are now going to fee base him out to an outside doctor to get radiation and other services. Maybe they should have done that back in Feb when the tests came back as questionable and the machines that were needed to do the tests at the VA were down. TOO LITTLE TO LATE PEOPLE!!!!
God Bless and Take care.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
The Final Word- For now
Have been at the VA in Wichita, KS for the past three days. We had the pelvic CT scan on Monday and got the letter on Tuesday. Michael has Stage 4 metastatic carcinoma which has invaded the lower part of his back. The bone scan has been ordered for Aug 22nd. We will be on the road back to Texas on the 23rd for the week. We have to be back in Wichita the first week of September.
The doc that diagnosed him with cancer is going to try to treat him with hormone therapy. He started taking the hormone pills on the 4th of this month and after 30 days he will start getting shots every three months. During that three months, he will have to get his blood tested to make sure that the PSA levels are going down.
We have requested an oncologist and a radiologist to consult with the urologist on this as we are trying to find out what we can do to kill the cancer that is already in his body.
The surgeon up in Kansas City called Michael today and cancelled his surgery until he can get the cancer in check. Michael was considerably upset but understood when the doc told him that if he did open him up, he would not be leaving the hospital.
The good thing is that they have not given him a time frame as to how long he has to live. We are hoping and praying that it is a good long time but only God knows.
Five years ago this evening, I put my husband John into hospice. He passed away 6 days later.
August has not been a real good month for me. All we ask is that you pray for Michael if you are a praying person.
He wants to have an Irish wake while he is up here to say goodbye to all his friends. We will plan that when we return. Will also see if any of the docs will follow this for Michael down in Texas so that he will feel more comfortable and at home. But for right now, we will be staying in KS as it is closer for him to go to the VA for treatment.
The doc that diagnosed him with cancer is going to try to treat him with hormone therapy. He started taking the hormone pills on the 4th of this month and after 30 days he will start getting shots every three months. During that three months, he will have to get his blood tested to make sure that the PSA levels are going down.
We have requested an oncologist and a radiologist to consult with the urologist on this as we are trying to find out what we can do to kill the cancer that is already in his body.
The surgeon up in Kansas City called Michael today and cancelled his surgery until he can get the cancer in check. Michael was considerably upset but understood when the doc told him that if he did open him up, he would not be leaving the hospital.
The good thing is that they have not given him a time frame as to how long he has to live. We are hoping and praying that it is a good long time but only God knows.
Five years ago this evening, I put my husband John into hospice. He passed away 6 days later.
August has not been a real good month for me. All we ask is that you pray for Michael if you are a praying person.
He wants to have an Irish wake while he is up here to say goodbye to all his friends. We will plan that when we return. Will also see if any of the docs will follow this for Michael down in Texas so that he will feel more comfortable and at home. But for right now, we will be staying in KS as it is closer for him to go to the VA for treatment.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
More Bad News
Well we got the wheelchair for Michael yesterday and it fits him fine. The therapist told him that he should walk as much as he can because if he doesn't, he will lose muscle in his legs and won't be able to walk.
Our day started at an early 5 am this morning. Had to get the truck to the shop as we had another u joint going out on the right side passenger front tire. Got it there by 745 am. My sister picked us up and we went around town doing stuff that had to get done. Got back over to the dealership around 4PM to pick up the truck and they were still waiting for parts. But he did tell me that there was another part broken that they hadn't anticipated on. And neither did we. All in all, the repair bill will be 1200 dollars. Nothing like a kick in the head on top of it all.
So we ended up having to get a rental to get home. Came home and Michael crashed in the chair. Checked out about a half hour after we got back here. Too much for him.
He spoke with his sister this morning and was told that she had whooping cough.. Good old Pertusis. Not a good thing since it is very contagious. Hope that no one else contracted it. We are getting our booster shot before we head south.
We are still breathing and have a good outlook and I guess that is all we can hope for right now. Praying daily for good results.
God Bless and Take Care.
Lynn
Our day started at an early 5 am this morning. Had to get the truck to the shop as we had another u joint going out on the right side passenger front tire. Got it there by 745 am. My sister picked us up and we went around town doing stuff that had to get done. Got back over to the dealership around 4PM to pick up the truck and they were still waiting for parts. But he did tell me that there was another part broken that they hadn't anticipated on. And neither did we. All in all, the repair bill will be 1200 dollars. Nothing like a kick in the head on top of it all.
So we ended up having to get a rental to get home. Came home and Michael crashed in the chair. Checked out about a half hour after we got back here. Too much for him.
He spoke with his sister this morning and was told that she had whooping cough.. Good old Pertusis. Not a good thing since it is very contagious. Hope that no one else contracted it. We are getting our booster shot before we head south.
We are still breathing and have a good outlook and I guess that is all we can hope for right now. Praying daily for good results.
God Bless and Take Care.
Lynn
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Not So Good News
As we have told the family and a few close friends about our news, I can now share it with you all.
Michael had his biopsy last Friday and was notified on Wednesday that he has prostate cancer. He has a bone scan scheduled for Aug 22nd and a pelvic CT scheduled for Aug 15th. Both of these will be done at the VA. As soon as we got the letter, we went to the hospital and started doing what I do best. Being an advocate. I went to each department that would be involved and made appts according to our schedule instead of theirs.
We are planning on coming back to the Terlingua area after his appt on Aug 22nd. We can't stay long there as Michael has a pre op appt on Sept 5th up in Kansas City. They are planning on doing his back surgery on Sept 20th but we are not sure if they will do it after they find out that he has prostate cancer. We are going to keep the appts and hope that they can still proceed with the back surgery.
Michael is in terrible pain now. He has been walking with the the walker all the time now. His legs are having problems supporting him. On this coming Monday, he is being measured for a wheel chair. He was told by the VA that he doesn't qualify for a motorized wheelchair as he hasn't lost a limb. I am not sure that a manual wheelchair will work out in the desert but we will find out.
Hope everyone is well and good around the US and God Bless and Take Care.
Please pray for us as that is about all that can be done right now.
Michael had his biopsy last Friday and was notified on Wednesday that he has prostate cancer. He has a bone scan scheduled for Aug 22nd and a pelvic CT scheduled for Aug 15th. Both of these will be done at the VA. As soon as we got the letter, we went to the hospital and started doing what I do best. Being an advocate. I went to each department that would be involved and made appts according to our schedule instead of theirs.
We are planning on coming back to the Terlingua area after his appt on Aug 22nd. We can't stay long there as Michael has a pre op appt on Sept 5th up in Kansas City. They are planning on doing his back surgery on Sept 20th but we are not sure if they will do it after they find out that he has prostate cancer. We are going to keep the appts and hope that they can still proceed with the back surgery.
Michael is in terrible pain now. He has been walking with the the walker all the time now. His legs are having problems supporting him. On this coming Monday, he is being measured for a wheel chair. He was told by the VA that he doesn't qualify for a motorized wheelchair as he hasn't lost a limb. I am not sure that a manual wheelchair will work out in the desert but we will find out.
Hope everyone is well and good around the US and God Bless and Take Care.
Please pray for us as that is about all that can be done right now.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Happy Independance Day
Sitting here thinking of all the wonderful things that I have in my life. My friend Michael, my kids, my granddaughter, his kids and grandkids (who are wonderful people) and I am thankful for the service men and women who protect this great United States for keeping it safe for us to live here.
Update on Michael: He is now walking with both canes and using the walker more than ever. I pulled the wheelchair out of the basement here at the house in the event that I need to use it. I am praying that I do not.
My granddaughter will be 2 on Saturday and we are having a birthday party. She is getting so excited. The theme is Bubble Guppies. I didn't know what they were either. Check out Nickelodeon if you have the urge to know.
The weather here is hot and humid. More humid than in previous years. The air conditioner is having a heck of a time keeping up. Might need a recharge. Will have to call the heating and air people to see if they can come and check it out. The unit is 12 years old. I probably need to get a new one but just can't afford it at this time.
Hope all is well with everyone. We pray daily that you are all well.
Take care and God Bless.
Photo of my granddaughter, Ava Mae (better known as Squishy-Mae_)
Update on Michael: He is now walking with both canes and using the walker more than ever. I pulled the wheelchair out of the basement here at the house in the event that I need to use it. I am praying that I do not.
My granddaughter will be 2 on Saturday and we are having a birthday party. She is getting so excited. The theme is Bubble Guppies. I didn't know what they were either. Check out Nickelodeon if you have the urge to know.
The weather here is hot and humid. More humid than in previous years. The air conditioner is having a heck of a time keeping up. Might need a recharge. Will have to call the heating and air people to see if they can come and check it out. The unit is 12 years old. I probably need to get a new one but just can't afford it at this time.
Hope all is well with everyone. We pray daily that you are all well.
Take care and God Bless.
Photo of my granddaughter, Ava Mae (better known as Squishy-Mae_)
Friday, June 29, 2012
Arrival in Indiana
Left Wisconsin on Tuesday afternoon. Had a great visit with my friend from the 3rd grade. We were talking and we have known each other for 45 years. Made both of us feel really old.
Went to Mantiwoc Wisconsin and took the ferry across Lake Michigan. The water looked like glass. Was brown in color when we left the dock, green a little further out in the lake but then it turned to a beautiful dark blue turquoise color. It was a very calm crossing. The last time that we were on the boat, it rained and we were told the horror stories of the storms that tend to ravage the crossing. Everyone was told to come out of the staterooms, come into the main dining area and flip the tables and chairs and sit on them. I am glad that I wasn't on that crossing. It would have made me rethink the whole driving through Chicago traffic.
Got to Ludington and stayed the night at a Days Inn. Had a very restful sleep and then proceeded to travel the lakeshore down to Indiana. I know that this part of Michigan gets the most lake effect snows during the winter and spring but it is beautiful this time of year. The trees are all lush and green. I really wouldn't want to be driving in the winter up there tho. I think that it would tend to be hazardous.
Got to Indiana and came directly to my old house. My son and his family live there. It was the first time that I had seen my granddaughter since her great grandfather's funeral in March of 2011. She has gotten so tall and she looks so much like my son. She has a squeaky little voice and I love it. My husband John would have been taken with her. She has her daddy wrapped around her little finger. And he is a very protective father.
Well time for me to dash and get some work done. Michael is still motivating but ever so slowly. We can't get back to KC soon enough for me. Although my daughter will be graduating from college at the end of this month, if his appointment could be sooner, we would be gone. I want him to be able to walk and not be in pain all the time. I can only pray that we get this done in time to prevent major damage.
Here are a few photos from my home in Wisconsin. I missed the trees..
Went to Mantiwoc Wisconsin and took the ferry across Lake Michigan. The water looked like glass. Was brown in color when we left the dock, green a little further out in the lake but then it turned to a beautiful dark blue turquoise color. It was a very calm crossing. The last time that we were on the boat, it rained and we were told the horror stories of the storms that tend to ravage the crossing. Everyone was told to come out of the staterooms, come into the main dining area and flip the tables and chairs and sit on them. I am glad that I wasn't on that crossing. It would have made me rethink the whole driving through Chicago traffic.
Got to Ludington and stayed the night at a Days Inn. Had a very restful sleep and then proceeded to travel the lakeshore down to Indiana. I know that this part of Michigan gets the most lake effect snows during the winter and spring but it is beautiful this time of year. The trees are all lush and green. I really wouldn't want to be driving in the winter up there tho. I think that it would tend to be hazardous.
Got to Indiana and came directly to my old house. My son and his family live there. It was the first time that I had seen my granddaughter since her great grandfather's funeral in March of 2011. She has gotten so tall and she looks so much like my son. She has a squeaky little voice and I love it. My husband John would have been taken with her. She has her daddy wrapped around her little finger. And he is a very protective father.
Well time for me to dash and get some work done. Michael is still motivating but ever so slowly. We can't get back to KC soon enough for me. Although my daughter will be graduating from college at the end of this month, if his appointment could be sooner, we would be gone. I want him to be able to walk and not be in pain all the time. I can only pray that we get this done in time to prevent major damage.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Update on the travelers
Looking at the stats, it doesn't seem like anyone is looking at this. Oh well, it helps me keep a diary of things that happen and my thoughts.
Went to lunch on Wednesday with an old friend from college days. He hasn't changed much.. just got older.. just like me. Had a great visit and made plans to visit with him again on Monday while we are in Green Bay. He and Michael got along famously as they have the same outlook on life and government.
Stayed at home today while my sister took my mom to the doctor. Mom is due to have her cast off today and she is way past ready. We had to stay home as Michael was having medicine delivered to the house and we had to sign for it.
My nephews are going to be coming up for a visit tomorrow after their judo class. I was hoping that they could stay until later in the day as we would have had a campfire and roasted marshmallows and had smores and hot dogs but they have other plans. They are 7 and 5. Cute as buttons, ornery as all get out. Will see about getting the pool set up tomorrow morning and get it ready for them to play in the next time that they are up.
Sunday is the annual church picnic. We will go to mass at 10:30 am and then walk around for a short time. I don't think that Michael will be up for an all day at the church grounds so we will get out booyah and go back to the house so he can relax and I can pack.
Headed out on Monday for Green Bay to visit with my friend from the 3rd grade. Thinking back about how we met 45 years ago. WOW.. I am feeling really old now. We talk about old times over a glass of wine and a dip in the hot tub.
Then on Tuesday, we are going to go to Manitiwoc WI and catch the SS Badger to take the ferry across the lake. The car, Michael and I can ride over for 199.00. Normally it would cost over 250.00 but I think that I will pay the price to go across rather than trying to tackle the traffic in Chicago. It is hard enough driving his truck let alone drive it though traffic where people don't give a crap about their driving habits.
Will write again after I get to Indiana. Take care and God Bless..
Went to lunch on Wednesday with an old friend from college days. He hasn't changed much.. just got older.. just like me. Had a great visit and made plans to visit with him again on Monday while we are in Green Bay. He and Michael got along famously as they have the same outlook on life and government.
Stayed at home today while my sister took my mom to the doctor. Mom is due to have her cast off today and she is way past ready. We had to stay home as Michael was having medicine delivered to the house and we had to sign for it.
My nephews are going to be coming up for a visit tomorrow after their judo class. I was hoping that they could stay until later in the day as we would have had a campfire and roasted marshmallows and had smores and hot dogs but they have other plans. They are 7 and 5. Cute as buttons, ornery as all get out. Will see about getting the pool set up tomorrow morning and get it ready for them to play in the next time that they are up.
Sunday is the annual church picnic. We will go to mass at 10:30 am and then walk around for a short time. I don't think that Michael will be up for an all day at the church grounds so we will get out booyah and go back to the house so he can relax and I can pack.
Headed out on Monday for Green Bay to visit with my friend from the 3rd grade. Thinking back about how we met 45 years ago. WOW.. I am feeling really old now. We talk about old times over a glass of wine and a dip in the hot tub.
Then on Tuesday, we are going to go to Manitiwoc WI and catch the SS Badger to take the ferry across the lake. The car, Michael and I can ride over for 199.00. Normally it would cost over 250.00 but I think that I will pay the price to go across rather than trying to tackle the traffic in Chicago. It is hard enough driving his truck let alone drive it though traffic where people don't give a crap about their driving habits.
Will write again after I get to Indiana. Take care and God Bless..
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Happy Fathers's Day
Friday night fish fry was great. The Barn Tavern in Lena, WI is one of the great places in NE Wisconsin to get good fish. They have great potato salad also. The atmosphere is great.. Their slogan " Come, sit and drink where the cows used to stink". The bar is an old barn that was converted into a bar/restaurant.
Saturday was a down day for us. Just sitting and relaxing.
Today it is steaks on the grill to celebrate Father's Day. My father has passed and so has Michael's but we will still celebrate in the spirit of the day.
Took some photos and I hope to edit this post later and add some of them.
Take care and God Bless.
Saturday was a down day for us. Just sitting and relaxing.
Today it is steaks on the grill to celebrate Father's Day. My father has passed and so has Michael's but we will still celebrate in the spirit of the day.
Took some photos and I hope to edit this post later and add some of them.
Take care and God Bless.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
A Day in the North Woods
Got to Stiles, Wisconsin yesterday around 9PM. We were too tired to blog last night. Spent most if not all the day driving yesterday.
Michael's birthday was yesterday and we got a cake and ice cream. He enjoyed the day (even tho he was in pain) and had a great meal for his special day.
Kept close to the house today and will be going out for the famous fish dinner at the Barn Tavern tomorrow night. The best walleye in town. Great lake perch also.
Will be taking photos tomorrow so I will post some here tomorrow.
Take care and God Bless.
Michael's birthday was yesterday and we got a cake and ice cream. He enjoyed the day (even tho he was in pain) and had a great meal for his special day.
Kept close to the house today and will be going out for the famous fish dinner at the Barn Tavern tomorrow night. The best walleye in town. Great lake perch also.
Will be taking photos tomorrow so I will post some here tomorrow.
Take care and God Bless.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Market Day
Spent the morning at the farmers market. The tomatoes here in KS have rippened early and they are a wonderful crop this year. However, the green peppers are a month out yet (that's what the farmer that I talked to had said) and by then the tomatoes have passed.. so WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE SALSA CROP THIS YEAR??
My sister and my friends came over for supper last night and we had a great fellowship. Lasagna, rosemary garlic bread, homemade pickled beets, and coleslaw. I know it isn't the spread that I usually put out but there were only 5 of us.
Michael is still in pain from the mylogram and is having problems with his legs. However, we are still headed to Wisconsin in the morning to visit family. Afterall, who knows when I will see them all again? I will do most of the driving and we will have to stop every couple of hours so that he can get out and move around. Luckily, I-35 goes up to Minnesota and we can just cross Wisconsin and be there. Only a 12 hour trip but it will still take us 2 days to do.
My mom is going in for surgery tomorrow on her other hand for carpel tunnel repair. Say a prayer for her if you are a praying person. Thank you.
Take care and God Bless.
My sister and my friends came over for supper last night and we had a great fellowship. Lasagna, rosemary garlic bread, homemade pickled beets, and coleslaw. I know it isn't the spread that I usually put out but there were only 5 of us.
Michael is still in pain from the mylogram and is having problems with his legs. However, we are still headed to Wisconsin in the morning to visit family. Afterall, who knows when I will see them all again? I will do most of the driving and we will have to stop every couple of hours so that he can get out and move around. Luckily, I-35 goes up to Minnesota and we can just cross Wisconsin and be there. Only a 12 hour trip but it will still take us 2 days to do.
My mom is going in for surgery tomorrow on her other hand for carpel tunnel repair. Say a prayer for her if you are a praying person. Thank you.
Take care and God Bless.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Laid Back Friday
After babysitting the grandkids, we took the day off. Just stayed at the apartment. Getting ready to head off to Wisconsin to see my mom, family and friends. Since the VA won't have any appointments for Michael, we are going to leave the Wichita area for a few weeks to see my family. Haven't seen them since my dad's funeral.
Will keep in touch through this blog and maybe I will be able to take some photos and learn how to post them with the writings.
Take care and God Bless.
Will keep in touch through this blog and maybe I will be able to take some photos and learn how to post them with the writings.
Take care and God Bless.
Friday, June 8, 2012
Movie Night
Took a couple of the grandkids to the Starlight Drive Inn last night for a movie night. Had the normal sodas and popcorn and candy. We stationed ourselves outside next to the truck while the boys made a makeshift bed/sitting area in the bed of the truck. Michael has a tool chest in the back of the truck so they propped themselves on it and it made a great chair for watching the movies. We saw Men in Black III and Dark Shadows. Men in Black III was great.. Dark Shadows was different. It was ok but I am glad that I saw it and that it is over with... no need to purchase that one for the DVD collection that I have.
No biopsy today for Michael. The machine was up but they are trying to "catch up" on the appointments that were cancelled. Michael actually got to talk with the doctor and he wants more blood tests before he does the biopsy. They scheduled it for July the 27th.
Found out that my daughter graduates on July 21st from Ball State University. She has gone for the past five years. She has done a wonderful job and will graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Metal Sculpture. I think that we will be able to watch her walk and accept her diploma. She promised her dad that she would walk to accept it so who am I to not be there to watch her accomplish that. She graduated in 2006 and had a 6th grade reading level and the comprehension was worse but she made it through her classes. I am so proud of her. The governments program "No child left behind" really didn't work for her. They left her behind long before she reached high school.
Ava Mae (my granddaughter) will be two in July and her mom asked if I could make the cupcakes for her party. Told her that I would.. The theme is Bubble Guppies... It is a cartoon on Nickelodeon. Watched the program on Thursday and OMG it is so out there.. but she loves it. So we will go along with that. Her dad told Michael that he couldn't get her a pony for her birthday... He was real adamate about that.
Hope all is well down in Terlingua... haven't heard from anybody for awhile other than John Wells (www.thefieldlab.blogspot.com).
Take care and God Bless...
No biopsy today for Michael. The machine was up but they are trying to "catch up" on the appointments that were cancelled. Michael actually got to talk with the doctor and he wants more blood tests before he does the biopsy. They scheduled it for July the 27th.
Found out that my daughter graduates on July 21st from Ball State University. She has gone for the past five years. She has done a wonderful job and will graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Metal Sculpture. I think that we will be able to watch her walk and accept her diploma. She promised her dad that she would walk to accept it so who am I to not be there to watch her accomplish that. She graduated in 2006 and had a 6th grade reading level and the comprehension was worse but she made it through her classes. I am so proud of her. The governments program "No child left behind" really didn't work for her. They left her behind long before she reached high school.
Ava Mae (my granddaughter) will be two in July and her mom asked if I could make the cupcakes for her party. Told her that I would.. The theme is Bubble Guppies... It is a cartoon on Nickelodeon. Watched the program on Thursday and OMG it is so out there.. but she loves it. So we will go along with that. Her dad told Michael that he couldn't get her a pony for her birthday... He was real adamate about that.
Hope all is well down in Terlingua... haven't heard from anybody for awhile other than John Wells (www.thefieldlab.blogspot.com).
Take care and God Bless...
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Cloudy day in Wichita
Early morning. Michael slept well last night. We have been helping out his daughter in law by watching the grandsons so that she can go to work. They have been delightful. They love their grandpa so much and are so concerned about him. It is wonderful to watch their interaction. Can't wait to go to Indiana to see my granddaughter. The last time I saw her, she was 7 months old. She will be the big 2 the first part of July. Her mom and dad are doing a good job with her and I am getting regular photos. She is getting too cute. I asked Grandpa Michael when he thought that he was going to have to go help her dad by sitting on the porch with the shotgun.. he said soon.
I will figure out how to post photos on this sometime soon. One thing at a time.
Going to take the boys to the Drive In tonight. Guess I will spend the afternoon napping so I can stay awake for both movies. Men in Black III and Dark Shadows. Should be interesting. Haven't been to a drive in for years.
Take care and God Bless.
I will figure out how to post photos on this sometime soon. One thing at a time.
Going to take the boys to the Drive In tonight. Guess I will spend the afternoon napping so I can stay awake for both movies. Men in Black III and Dark Shadows. Should be interesting. Haven't been to a drive in for years.
Take care and God Bless.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Beginning Of a Long Process
I am starting this blog to let the persons who are interested know what is going on with us on our trip. We left the Terlingua area on the 13th of March and it was an eventful trip to Ft. Stockton. The first night that we were gone, bad storms came through the area. Lots of hail and from what I hear from the people back home, there was a tornado in Terlingua. Lots of damage.
Michael did well on the trip. He did most of the driving. Arrived in Wichita Kansas. It was like I never left. God, how I missed the trees. I remember this city from when I lived here and was stationed here in the military at McConnell AFB.
For the first week, we stayed at the Value Place in Wichita. I have to say that the place is about the cheapest place to stay as far as the extended stay hotels in the area. The personnel are personable and pleasant.
Michael had an appointment on the 16th of May for a nerve induction. They are testing him, trying to find out how much damage has been done since his last surgery. He is losing function in his left leg and is having a harder time, day by day, walking.
The nerve induction test was done and we are in communication with the Bob Dole VA center daily to find out when his next test is. We have to jump through all these hoops before the VA will do his spinal surgery.
So, between the nerve induction test and the colonoscopy which is scheduled for the 5th, we are going to look for an apartment. Looked in the yellow pages, the newspaper and also Craigslist for local information. Found an apartment on the NW side of town near the highway at a price that we can afford. Not the Ritz (no where near close) but it will do for the time we are here waiting for the VA to procede with all of their tests.
So, yesterday, June 5th, he had his colonoscopy. The doc came out and said that everything went well. He had a polyp and they sent it off for testing but everything looked good.
Today, June 6th, he had his mylogram. His appointment was at 9:15am and it was 11:25 before they took him in to have the procedure done. He was getting to be a bit on edge as they made him take a couple of the medications that he is on, out of the daily dose for a couple of days. Guess that it interfered with the testing process.
He was in recovery by 12:10 and he was allowed to leave by 2:15pm. Another long day at the VA. He has to stay flat for a complete 24 hours to allow the puncture to heal up. Right now he is sleeping soundly. He hasn't really had any sleep in about 3 days due to this test today. I hope that he has a great and restful night. He is snoring.. I know I won't.
Michael did well on the trip. He did most of the driving. Arrived in Wichita Kansas. It was like I never left. God, how I missed the trees. I remember this city from when I lived here and was stationed here in the military at McConnell AFB.
For the first week, we stayed at the Value Place in Wichita. I have to say that the place is about the cheapest place to stay as far as the extended stay hotels in the area. The personnel are personable and pleasant.
Michael had an appointment on the 16th of May for a nerve induction. They are testing him, trying to find out how much damage has been done since his last surgery. He is losing function in his left leg and is having a harder time, day by day, walking.
The nerve induction test was done and we are in communication with the Bob Dole VA center daily to find out when his next test is. We have to jump through all these hoops before the VA will do his spinal surgery.
So, between the nerve induction test and the colonoscopy which is scheduled for the 5th, we are going to look for an apartment. Looked in the yellow pages, the newspaper and also Craigslist for local information. Found an apartment on the NW side of town near the highway at a price that we can afford. Not the Ritz (no where near close) but it will do for the time we are here waiting for the VA to procede with all of their tests.
So, yesterday, June 5th, he had his colonoscopy. The doc came out and said that everything went well. He had a polyp and they sent it off for testing but everything looked good.
Today, June 6th, he had his mylogram. His appointment was at 9:15am and it was 11:25 before they took him in to have the procedure done. He was getting to be a bit on edge as they made him take a couple of the medications that he is on, out of the daily dose for a couple of days. Guess that it interfered with the testing process.
He was in recovery by 12:10 and he was allowed to leave by 2:15pm. Another long day at the VA. He has to stay flat for a complete 24 hours to allow the puncture to heal up. Right now he is sleeping soundly. He hasn't really had any sleep in about 3 days due to this test today. I hope that he has a great and restful night. He is snoring.. I know I won't.
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