This is Brian with another blog post. Wendi's ashes were buried last Friday, November 6, 2009. She has been laid to rest at Dearborn Cemetery in Poway. Here's the website:
http://www.dearborncemetery.net
There's no headstone right now; it takes several weeks to have it made, so it will probably be another month or more before there's a headstone to visit.
I'm not sure what else to put on this blog. Unless someone requests otherwise, this will probably be the last post. Wendi has been laid to rest. Her journey has ended; it didn't end the way any of us hoped it would, but it has ended nonetheless. I don't think it makes sense for me to talk about what it's like to lose my wife to cancer, for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, this was Wendi's blog, not mine. It was intended to tell her story, not mine. Second, I'm not sure how much description I can give such a horribly devastating sense of loss. It's something you either understand or you don't. Millions of people have gone through this process, and now I have to go through it. Wendi would have wanted me to move on; she would have wanted me to live my life to the fullest, just as she did. That will happen with time, but for now, I still have to grieve the loss of my wife. She was a wonderful, special woman, and I will miss her terribly.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Thursday, October 15, 2009
There is something you can do
This is Brian with another rambling thought. (I often have rambling thoughts when I'm still up after 1:00 a.m.) First of all, I wanted to express how much we have all appreciated the outpouring of support from everybody. One thing that has struck me in particular, though, is how the majority of the messages end with some variant of "Let me know if there's anything I can do." I have thought about that at length, and I usually can't think of anything. Time and God will have to heal my emotional wounds; other than that, what can anyone do? But then it occurred to me... there is something each one of you can do. If you have kids, you can give them an extra-tight, extra-long hug. Let them know how much you love them, let them know how proud you are of them, and let them know how many wondrous and amazing things this world has to offer. If you have a spouse, let him/her know how much you appreciate what he/she does for the family and for the marriage. If you and your spouse are arguing over something, ask yourself if the argument is really worth it in the grand scheme of things. If you have friends, let them know how much you value the time you spend together and the things you do together. Let your parents and/or siblings know how much they mean to you. That trip or that activity you have been talking or thinking about doing, but haven't actually done... what's stopping you? If it's not likely to kill you or leave you bankrupt, what are you waiting for? As Wendi told me about a week before she passed away, life is meant to be lived, not wasted.
The old saying is true — every day is a gift from God. I didn't realize how true that was until my wife had no more days left. A simple conversation... how easy is that to take for granted? My wife spent about one-fourth of her time in the hospital unconscious and unable to communicate with anyone. Don't take your life, your health or your relationships for granted, because they are all more fragile than many of us realize. Give thanks to God for what you have, because whether you realize it or not, you have so much more than you know.
The old saying is true — every day is a gift from God. I didn't realize how true that was until my wife had no more days left. A simple conversation... how easy is that to take for granted? My wife spent about one-fourth of her time in the hospital unconscious and unable to communicate with anyone. Don't take your life, your health or your relationships for granted, because they are all more fragile than many of us realize. Give thanks to God for what you have, because whether you realize it or not, you have so much more than you know.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
More details on Wendi's memorial service
This is Brian with an update on Wendi's upcoming memorial service. I have had quite a few people asking about gifts, flowers, etc. We're covered as far as flowers, and gifts are not necessary. However, if you feel so inclined, you can make a donation to a charity.
Since she was a flight attendant for seven years, Wendi's favorite charity was Airline Ambassadors:
Airline Ambassadors
Wendi always adored animals. Shortly after I met her, her family had to put down their 19-year-old cat; she really took that hard. I'm sure she would appreciate donations to the San Diego Humane Society:
San Diego Humane Society
If you prefer to donate to a cancer-related charity in Wendi's memory, either of these charities would be fine. Her married name was Wendi Rentschler.
The Cancer Project
American Cancer Society
If you have any more questions, feel free to use my Facebook account (or Wendi's Facebook account) to send me an e-mail. I have access to both accounts, so I'll get the message either way.
Since she was a flight attendant for seven years, Wendi's favorite charity was Airline Ambassadors:
Airline Ambassadors
Wendi always adored animals. Shortly after I met her, her family had to put down their 19-year-old cat; she really took that hard. I'm sure she would appreciate donations to the San Diego Humane Society:
San Diego Humane Society
If you prefer to donate to a cancer-related charity in Wendi's memory, either of these charities would be fine. Her married name was Wendi Rentschler.
The Cancer Project
American Cancer Society
If you have any more questions, feel free to use my Facebook account (or Wendi's Facebook account) to send me an e-mail. I have access to both accounts, so I'll get the message either way.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Memorial service for Wendi
This is Brian with another update. I wanted to let everybody know about the upcoming memorial service for Wendi. Anyone who wants to attend is welcome.
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Place: Tierrasanta Seventh-day Adventist Church
Address: 11260 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92124
Here's a map in case you need directions. If you need more information than what I have given here, send a private message on Facebook to either me or Wendi (I have access to both accounts).
View Larger Map
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Place: Tierrasanta Seventh-day Adventist Church
Address: 11260 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92124
Here's a map in case you need directions. If you need more information than what I have given here, send a private message on Facebook to either me or Wendi (I have access to both accounts).
View Larger Map
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Some words from Wendi's parents
This is Brian. I received an e-mail earlier today from Wendi's parents, and I wanted to include that here. I can't think of anything more appropriate to add to this blog than her parents' thoughts and feelings regarding this incredibly difficult ordeal.
This is to let you know of Wendi’s passing last night, October 10th at 7 PM at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California. She put up a courageous fight, but in the end, the cancer was too aggressive and fast spreading. Right now, Shirley, Steven and I are in shock and overwhelmed with grief. It is so difficult to see someone so energized and outgoing go through the ravages of cancer. Because she was in such severe pain caused by her tumors the surgery was moved up two weeks sooner than planned. It was hoped that removing the tumors and other affected parts of her uterus would eliminate her pain and stem the spread of the cancer. It was planned that after she healed from the surgery, chemo would be utilized to root out and damage any of the cancer not removed by surgery. Her surgery was performed on September 15th and lasted about 5 hours. Immediately thereafter, the surgeon indicated that this was one of the most difficult surgeries he had performed but thought everything went very well. However, that proved not to be the case. The subsequent 26 days have been like a roller coaster ride with days of euphoria followed by despair.
Wendi had what is called “undifferentiated high grade uterine sarcoma,” a rare type of uterine cancer that forms in muscle or other tissues of the uterus (the small, hollow, pear-shaped organ in a woman’s pelvis in which a fetus develops). It usually occurs after menopause and therefore perplexing to us and her physicians as why Wendi, at age 41, had this type. She was in so much pain before surgery because the tumor in her uterus had grown to the size of a small grapefruit in just a few weeks of diagnosis. To put in perspective how fast spreading this type of cancer is, Wendi was first diagnosed with it in July of this year. Even after the surgery it was revealed that it had spread to both lungs and liver. Still, with chemo after recovering from the surgery, we thought this could be managed. However, as time went on it became apparent that her immune system was overwhelmed fighting the cancer and healing was not going well. Even during the last few days we saw visual evidence that it has spread to her skull. She was surrounded by loved ones to the end. One final note, Brian’s father is a retired oncologist and his mother a registered nurse. Their bedside vigilance, care and love, were an unbelievable comfort to us all. Brian and his family is the best thing that ever happened to Wendi. She was absolutely smitten with every one.
Also, I would like to mention that Wendi was an organ donor, but because of the cancer and infection the only thing that can be used are her corneas – this is the type caring, giving person she was. The past several years were the happiest of her life, finding the love of her life, Brian… they were ready to take on the world! She loved her new job as a medical assistant at Scripps Clinic and was looking forward to going back to school to become an RN.
With all the pain she was having before the surgery, she never complained of any pain from this complicated surgery after. She was well medicated and the dosage increased as needed. Brian spent the last two nights with Wendi in her hospital bed, which we believe she was somehow aware. Her breathing patterns calmed down at these times. It was an extremely therapeutic and calming experience for all of us. I have never witnessed anyone actually passing on from this life before, but it was the most inspirational thing I have ever seen. She was not in pain, but the last stage was of her breath becoming more shallow, slower, and quiet. Her last breath was so serene, peaceful and inspirational. It was the softest, most tender thing I have ever witnessed. (This is Shirley speaking) Thanks to all for your love, support, prayers, and concerns during this excruciating time. We truly understand now what a “heavy heart” means.
Tommy and Shirley
This is to let you know of Wendi’s passing last night, October 10th at 7 PM at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California. She put up a courageous fight, but in the end, the cancer was too aggressive and fast spreading. Right now, Shirley, Steven and I are in shock and overwhelmed with grief. It is so difficult to see someone so energized and outgoing go through the ravages of cancer. Because she was in such severe pain caused by her tumors the surgery was moved up two weeks sooner than planned. It was hoped that removing the tumors and other affected parts of her uterus would eliminate her pain and stem the spread of the cancer. It was planned that after she healed from the surgery, chemo would be utilized to root out and damage any of the cancer not removed by surgery. Her surgery was performed on September 15th and lasted about 5 hours. Immediately thereafter, the surgeon indicated that this was one of the most difficult surgeries he had performed but thought everything went very well. However, that proved not to be the case. The subsequent 26 days have been like a roller coaster ride with days of euphoria followed by despair.
Wendi had what is called “undifferentiated high grade uterine sarcoma,” a rare type of uterine cancer that forms in muscle or other tissues of the uterus (the small, hollow, pear-shaped organ in a woman’s pelvis in which a fetus develops). It usually occurs after menopause and therefore perplexing to us and her physicians as why Wendi, at age 41, had this type. She was in so much pain before surgery because the tumor in her uterus had grown to the size of a small grapefruit in just a few weeks of diagnosis. To put in perspective how fast spreading this type of cancer is, Wendi was first diagnosed with it in July of this year. Even after the surgery it was revealed that it had spread to both lungs and liver. Still, with chemo after recovering from the surgery, we thought this could be managed. However, as time went on it became apparent that her immune system was overwhelmed fighting the cancer and healing was not going well. Even during the last few days we saw visual evidence that it has spread to her skull. She was surrounded by loved ones to the end. One final note, Brian’s father is a retired oncologist and his mother a registered nurse. Their bedside vigilance, care and love, were an unbelievable comfort to us all. Brian and his family is the best thing that ever happened to Wendi. She was absolutely smitten with every one.
Also, I would like to mention that Wendi was an organ donor, but because of the cancer and infection the only thing that can be used are her corneas – this is the type caring, giving person she was. The past several years were the happiest of her life, finding the love of her life, Brian… they were ready to take on the world! She loved her new job as a medical assistant at Scripps Clinic and was looking forward to going back to school to become an RN.
With all the pain she was having before the surgery, she never complained of any pain from this complicated surgery after. She was well medicated and the dosage increased as needed. Brian spent the last two nights with Wendi in her hospital bed, which we believe she was somehow aware. Her breathing patterns calmed down at these times. It was an extremely therapeutic and calming experience for all of us. I have never witnessed anyone actually passing on from this life before, but it was the most inspirational thing I have ever seen. She was not in pain, but the last stage was of her breath becoming more shallow, slower, and quiet. Her last breath was so serene, peaceful and inspirational. It was the softest, most tender thing I have ever witnessed. (This is Shirley speaking) Thanks to all for your love, support, prayers, and concerns during this excruciating time. We truly understand now what a “heavy heart” means.
Tommy and Shirley
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Wendi's journey has ended
This is Brian with an update on Wendi. Tonight I am reporting something I had hoped I would never have to — Wendi has lost her battle with cancer. She fought it very bravely and admirably; we were always very proud of how she handled herself throughout her terrible ordeal. She died peacefully on Saturday, October 10. We observed her death at 7:00 p.m., but the Operation Supervisor pronounced the official time of death at 7:42 p.m. (That's not because our observation was wrong; it's just because the Operation Supervisor didn't come into the room until around 7:40 p.m.)
Wendi died peacefully, surrounded by family — her parents, me, my mother, my brother and his girlfriend, as well as my sister and her baby son. We all told her how much we loved her and how much she meant to us as she took her last few breaths. It was very calm and peaceful. Many more friends and family members came to visit her in the few days before she passed away; we wanted to let them know how much we appreciated them coming to see her. I'm sure she appreciated the visits in her own way, even if she couldn't respond.
In particular, we wanted to thank Wendi's cousin, Cindy, for suggesting that we sleep beside her in her hospital bed. I spent most of the last two days and nights next to her in the hospital bed; she seemed calmer when I was holding her. I was very happy to see both of her parents lying next to her in the hospital bed throughout the last two days. It was a great way to let Wendi know, without ever saying a word, how much she meant to us, so thank you for that, Cindy.
Obviously, there are some arrangements that need to be made, as well as some other things that need to be written here. That will happen when the right time comes, but right now everyone is too overwhelmed with grief to do very much in that regard. We will post updates here about Wendi and the memorial arrangements over the next few days. We are all devastated; we had hoped for the best for Wendi. We never expected to lose her so soon. My beautiful, intelligent, caring, and funny wife has gone home to be with God. I like to think that God thought heaven needed more of a sense of humor. For that, I can't imagine a better fit for the job than Wendi.
More updates soon...
Wendi died peacefully, surrounded by family — her parents, me, my mother, my brother and his girlfriend, as well as my sister and her baby son. We all told her how much we loved her and how much she meant to us as she took her last few breaths. It was very calm and peaceful. Many more friends and family members came to visit her in the few days before she passed away; we wanted to let them know how much we appreciated them coming to see her. I'm sure she appreciated the visits in her own way, even if she couldn't respond.
In particular, we wanted to thank Wendi's cousin, Cindy, for suggesting that we sleep beside her in her hospital bed. I spent most of the last two days and nights next to her in the hospital bed; she seemed calmer when I was holding her. I was very happy to see both of her parents lying next to her in the hospital bed throughout the last two days. It was a great way to let Wendi know, without ever saying a word, how much she meant to us, so thank you for that, Cindy.
Obviously, there are some arrangements that need to be made, as well as some other things that need to be written here. That will happen when the right time comes, but right now everyone is too overwhelmed with grief to do very much in that regard. We will post updates here about Wendi and the memorial arrangements over the next few days. We are all devastated; we had hoped for the best for Wendi. We never expected to lose her so soon. My beautiful, intelligent, caring, and funny wife has gone home to be with God. I like to think that God thought heaven needed more of a sense of humor. For that, I can't imagine a better fit for the job than Wendi.
More updates soon...
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Nearing the end
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. I'm afraid I have devastating news to report. Her condition has deteriorated faster than any of us thought. She only has a few more days to live, maybe less. She is unconscious, and it is unlikely that she will regain consciousness. Hospice is managing her care right now. She will be spending her remaining time in the hospital; she is not coming home. All we can do at this point is try to keep her as comfortable as we can. She cannot eat or drink on her own, and she is not receiving nutrition through her IV, since that would feed the cancer more than it would feed her body. It's only a matter of time now. This is an absolutely devastating situation; I truly thought she would be coming home to recover from the surgery. I had no idea any of this would happen. If you want to come and see her, it's probably best to do it as soon as you can. She probably won't know you're in the room, since she's unconscious.
I wish I had better news... I really do. I'm still in shock over how quickly everything has happened. My only consolation is that she's sleeping peacefully, and she's not in any pain. All we can do now is wait. I'll post another update when something changes.
I wish I had better news... I really do. I'm still in shock over how quickly everything has happened. My only consolation is that she's sleeping peacefully, and she's not in any pain. All we can do now is wait. I'll post another update when something changes.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Discouragement and hope
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. As confusing as it sounds, Wednesday left me feeling discouraged and hopeful at the same time. Wendi and I, along with both sets of parents, met with Dr. Bahador on Wednesday evening. (Wendi was only semi-conscious at the time.) Her bladder leak turned out to be a much bigger problem than I realized — not because of the condition itself, but because it's an indication that her body is not healing. Between the cancer, the trauma of the surgery she had in mid-September, etc., everything has ganged up on her and made it difficult for her to recover from the surgery. She's currently on a clear-liquid diet, she is only semi-conscious most of the time, and she hasn't gone on any walks since Saturday. Those things, combined with her bladder condition, are an indication that she is in poor health. Given her present condition, chemotherapy would be extremely harmful; it could even kill her. She is not a candidate for chemotherapy until she is much healthier and stronger than she is now (i.e. able to withstand the debilitating effects of chemo). To put it another way, unless and until she recovers from the surgery, she has no treatment options to slow the growth of her cancer.
The reason I heard from hospice reps the other day was because Wendi asked her doctor for more information. After hearing Dr. Bahador's explanation of her condition and his reasoning for why he can't give her chemo, I have to concur that hospice is the best route for Wendi, at least right now. I don't want her in the hospital anymore; it's not doing her any good. She's a handful for the nurses, and she has made it clear that she doesn't want to be there. Dr. Bahador has done everything for Wendi that he can, at least for now. She wants to go home; we need to let her do that.
The plan is to have Wendi stay at her parents' house, at least for starters. I'll call her case manager on Thursday morning and get the ball rolling on hospice arrangements. I hope to see her situated at her parents' house by Friday or Saturday. I believe Wendi's best chance for recovery is getting her out of the hospital and bringing her to a more familiar environment. At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, I believe she will give up and die sooner if she has to stay in the hospital much longer. Can she recover and receive chemotherapy before she loses her battle with cancer? There is no way to predict that; at this point, it's entirely up to her. It is possible for her to recover to the point where she can receive chemo, but if that's what she wants, she will have to fight harder than she has ever fought in her life.
The reason I heard from hospice reps the other day was because Wendi asked her doctor for more information. After hearing Dr. Bahador's explanation of her condition and his reasoning for why he can't give her chemo, I have to concur that hospice is the best route for Wendi, at least right now. I don't want her in the hospital anymore; it's not doing her any good. She's a handful for the nurses, and she has made it clear that she doesn't want to be there. Dr. Bahador has done everything for Wendi that he can, at least for now. She wants to go home; we need to let her do that.
The plan is to have Wendi stay at her parents' house, at least for starters. I'll call her case manager on Thursday morning and get the ball rolling on hospice arrangements. I hope to see her situated at her parents' house by Friday or Saturday. I believe Wendi's best chance for recovery is getting her out of the hospital and bringing her to a more familiar environment. At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, I believe she will give up and die sooner if she has to stay in the hospital much longer. Can she recover and receive chemotherapy before she loses her battle with cancer? There is no way to predict that; at this point, it's entirely up to her. It is possible for her to recover to the point where she can receive chemo, but if that's what she wants, she will have to fight harder than she has ever fought in her life.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Hospice? Already?
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. I have to confess that I'm a little torqued at the medical system right now. Sometimes it seems like the Marx Brothers are running the show. First, the good news. Wendi's MRI scan of the brain was negative for cancer, so we can be thankful for that. However, her doctor visited her early on Tuesday morning and had a chat with her. Wendi doesn't remember what was discussed, and my attempts to reach her doctor for clarification were not successful, so I'm still in the dark about her condition. However, the subject of hospice came up, so I was lucky enough to sit through two sales pitches from hospice reps. Yay... I wasted no time in explaining to both reps that we weren't making any decisions about anything until we knew exactly what her condition was, and what all the options were. What I don't get is, if there's no cancer in her brain, isn't chemotherapy still an option, if only to prolong her life? In that case, why bring hospice into the picture? Clearly, we have more questions than answers, and we can only get them from her doctor, who has yet to contact any of us. He wants to meet with all the family on Wednesday (which can't be a good sign), but I am not aware of any meeting place or time. I'll post another update after we actually get some meaningful information about Wendi's condition.
There is still no word on when Wendi can hope to come home, or if she will be able to come home at all. Hopefully that can be cleared up during the meeting with her doctor.
There is still no word on when Wendi can hope to come home, or if she will be able to come home at all. Hopefully that can be cleared up during the meeting with her doctor.
More complications
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. I know this is probably an overly emotional reaction to the situation, but I am becoming increasingly concerned and frustrated by all the complications that are keeping Wendi in the hospital. So far she has been in the hospital two weeks longer than originally estimated. I'm starting to wonder if she will ever be able to come home; she doesn't seem to be improving. When I saw her on Monday afternoon, she seemed very drugged up, and her short-term memory was not very good. She was very nauseous, and she was also complaining about pain in her lower abdominal region, which is noticeably distended. At least while I was there, I couldn't get a good answer from anyone as to why that was happening. I'll give them some time to get a handle on things and check with them again tonight.
My primary concern is that if Wendi is not allowed to come home in the near future, it will start to become difficult for her to recover. Obviously she can't come home in her current condition, but I believe she will be more motivated if she knows that her hospital stay is about to come to an end. She is discouraged by how long she has been kept in the hospital, and she hasn't gone on a single walk for the last two days. (She's supposed to take four walks every day.) I'm worried that this could become a negative situation that feeds on itself — she can't leave the hospital until she improves, but she can't improve until she leaves the hospital. The situation with her bladder seems to be under control, and her staph infection is going away. All that remains is for her to regain some mental acuity so that she can at least partially take care of herself once she's at home.
My primary concern is that if Wendi is not allowed to come home in the near future, it will start to become difficult for her to recover. Obviously she can't come home in her current condition, but I believe she will be more motivated if she knows that her hospital stay is about to come to an end. She is discouraged by how long she has been kept in the hospital, and she hasn't gone on a single walk for the last two days. (She's supposed to take four walks every day.) I'm worried that this could become a negative situation that feeds on itself — she can't leave the hospital until she improves, but she can't improve until she leaves the hospital. The situation with her bladder seems to be under control, and her staph infection is going away. All that remains is for her to regain some mental acuity so that she can at least partially take care of herself once she's at home.
Monday, October 5, 2009
The tubes are back
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. Her port-a-cath was removed on Sunday. However, just when we thought she would be able to go home on Monday or Tuesday (as in today or tomorrow), yet another complication developed. This time it was her bladder; it started leaking internally. The doctors were checking for that before; why it never presented itself as a problem until now... we're not sure. At any rate, her doctor ordered an emergency procedure to have both the nephrostomy tubes put back in. I'm sure they will be there for several weeks while the bladder heals. (The lower abdominal drainage tube is still out, though; it does not need to be put back in.) I hate to see her come home with all those tubes, since the nephrostomy tubes in particular make it harder for her to sleep comfortably and limit her ability to move around. However, we will have to live with such drawbacks, since we only want her coming home from the hospital once — not going back in multiple times to deal with more complications.
Right now, the main things that are keeping her from going home are the staph infection and the bladder leakage issue. I'm sure they'll want to run a few more scans, tests or whatever, but to me it looks like everything that can be done to mitigate the bladder situation has been done. At this point, her body just has to heal the damage, presumably over several weeks. The staph infection is a very serious complication, though; that has to be brought completely under control before she can even hope to be discharged from the hospital. Since she had to get the nephrostomy procedure the other day, I'm sure that messed up the doctors' ability to give her antibiotics, so that will probably delay her treatment to some degree. We're keeping our fingers crossed to see her come home sometime this week, but for lack of a more sophisticated term, we just don't know right now.
Wendi has been in the hospital since September 15. The recovery period was originally intended to be 5-7 days, but obviously the various complications have delayed that. Tuesday (tomorrow) will mark her third week in the hospital. She has only gone outside once during that entire time. Hopefully we can start taking her outside more often while she recovers. She wasn't up for it on Sunday... probably too groggy from the anesthetic she received during the port-a-cath removal and the nephrostomy procedure. We haven't heard about any MRI results; we expect to hear more this coming week.
Right now, the main things that are keeping her from going home are the staph infection and the bladder leakage issue. I'm sure they'll want to run a few more scans, tests or whatever, but to me it looks like everything that can be done to mitigate the bladder situation has been done. At this point, her body just has to heal the damage, presumably over several weeks. The staph infection is a very serious complication, though; that has to be brought completely under control before she can even hope to be discharged from the hospital. Since she had to get the nephrostomy procedure the other day, I'm sure that messed up the doctors' ability to give her antibiotics, so that will probably delay her treatment to some degree. We're keeping our fingers crossed to see her come home sometime this week, but for lack of a more sophisticated term, we just don't know right now.
Wendi has been in the hospital since September 15. The recovery period was originally intended to be 5-7 days, but obviously the various complications have delayed that. Tuesday (tomorrow) will mark her third week in the hospital. She has only gone outside once during that entire time. Hopefully we can start taking her outside more often while she recovers. She wasn't up for it on Sunday... probably too groggy from the anesthetic she received during the port-a-cath removal and the nephrostomy procedure. We haven't heard about any MRI results; we expect to hear more this coming week.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
A new hospital room
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. We took her outside today; it was the first time since her surgery that she had gone outside. She's still quite weak, and she needs assistance to stand up and walk around for short distances. She has quite a bit of physical therapy in her future. Her port-a-cath removal surgery was postponed until Sunday because of some emergency surgeries in the operating room. However, she had an MRI done on Saturday; we expect to get the results this coming week.
Wendi has been moved to a different hospital room, so if you don't find her in the old room or you can't reach her on the hospital phone, you'll know why. She still has her cell phone, so you can always reach her that way. Send me a private message if you need the new hospital room and phone info.
Her discharge from the hospital still appears to be on track for this coming Monday or Tuesday. As we have seen previously, though, that could easily change.
Wendi has been moved to a different hospital room, so if you don't find her in the old room or you can't reach her on the hospital phone, you'll know why. She still has her cell phone, so you can always reach her that way. Send me a private message if you need the new hospital room and phone info.
Her discharge from the hospital still appears to be on track for this coming Monday or Tuesday. As we have seen previously, though, that could easily change.
Friday, October 2, 2009
A truly sad day for all of us
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. I'm afraid I have some really bad news to report. Dr. Bahador and about half a dozen nurses and coordinators within Scripps met with me, Wendi, Wendi's parents and my dad on Friday at 4 p.m. There is evidence of cancer in both of her lungs, as well as her liver. Her head has not been scanned to see if there is evidence of cancer in her brain, so she is scheduled for an MRI early next week. Regardless of the MRI results, the likelihood of long-term survival is very low. Radiation treatment is out of the question, since the cancer is spreading throughout the body. That leaves chemotherapy as the only treatment option; however, it is not realistic to expect a full recovery from chemotherapy alone. In all likelihood, even a favorable response to chemo would only slow the spread of the cancer; it would not increase her likelihood of long-term survival.
Wendi is taking the news very well. She has been extremely strong and courageous, which is a character trait that I have always respected and admired in her. She is still recovering in the hospital; she developed a staph infection at the IV site that was replaced the other day, so she's on antibiotics. The problem is that she has a subdermal (below the skin) device called a port-a-cath in her, which is intended to make it easier to give her chemotherapy treatments. The staph infection has been found in her blood, and the bacteria will latch on to any foreign object such as the port-a-cath. For that reason, the port-a-cath needs to be removed ASAP; that is scheduled for Saturday. Both of her nephrostomy tubes were removed on Friday, and her lower abdominal drainage tube was also taken out. It looks like she will be able to go home with just an IV line for giving her antibiotics. She cannot go home until the staph infection has cleared up; best guess, that will be this coming Monday or Tuesday at the earliest.
I want to take this opportunity to let all of you know how much we have all appreciated the kind words, encouragement, gifts, etc. I know all of you wanted the best for Wendi, and believe me when I tell you, I wish I had better news to report. I'm sure I'll have more to say about this later; I'm still in shock right now. I was prepared for this possibility; I just didn't know it would happen this quickly. As devastated as I am by the news, I can't begin to imagine how her family must feel right now. No parent ever wants to outlive a child. My thoughts and prayers are with her parents and her brother, as well as her niece, her nephew and the rest of her immediate and extended family.
No decision has been made yet regarding the next treatment step for Wendi. We will need to wait until the MRI results come in next week before making that decision. Of course, I'll post an update here when we know more.
Wendi is taking the news very well. She has been extremely strong and courageous, which is a character trait that I have always respected and admired in her. She is still recovering in the hospital; she developed a staph infection at the IV site that was replaced the other day, so she's on antibiotics. The problem is that she has a subdermal (below the skin) device called a port-a-cath in her, which is intended to make it easier to give her chemotherapy treatments. The staph infection has been found in her blood, and the bacteria will latch on to any foreign object such as the port-a-cath. For that reason, the port-a-cath needs to be removed ASAP; that is scheduled for Saturday. Both of her nephrostomy tubes were removed on Friday, and her lower abdominal drainage tube was also taken out. It looks like she will be able to go home with just an IV line for giving her antibiotics. She cannot go home until the staph infection has cleared up; best guess, that will be this coming Monday or Tuesday at the earliest.
I want to take this opportunity to let all of you know how much we have all appreciated the kind words, encouragement, gifts, etc. I know all of you wanted the best for Wendi, and believe me when I tell you, I wish I had better news to report. I'm sure I'll have more to say about this later; I'm still in shock right now. I was prepared for this possibility; I just didn't know it would happen this quickly. As devastated as I am by the news, I can't begin to imagine how her family must feel right now. No parent ever wants to outlive a child. My thoughts and prayers are with her parents and her brother, as well as her niece, her nephew and the rest of her immediate and extended family.
No decision has been made yet regarding the next treatment step for Wendi. We will need to wait until the MRI results come in next week before making that decision. Of course, I'll post an update here when we know more.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
This week? Maybe? Hopefully?
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. Her infection seems to be going away, now that she has a new IV line. Her temperature is in a more normal range. Her nephrostomy tubes have been clamped, so they will most likely be removed within a week or so. Dr. Bahador wants to meet with us on Friday afternoon, presumably to talk about what has happened so far and what still needs to happen. When I asked the discharge planner if the Friday meeting was an indication that Wendi would be discharged from the hospital on Friday, the response was "not necessarily." It's our hope and expectation that she will be discharged on Friday or Saturday, but ultimately that's up to her doctor.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Hopefully this week
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. She is still recovering in the hospital. She was originally on track to be discharged from the hospital on Thursday, October 1, but I suspect that will probably end up being delayed. She has an elevated temperature (100.6 deg), which could be indicative of a developing infection where the IV line is inserted. To deal with the infection, her IV line was taken out last night and replaced with a fresh one. If she turns out to have an infection, it's not life-threatening, but her doctor is concerned about the infection spreading to her kidneys and complicating her recovery. She is receiving antibiotics through her IV line until her condition improves. Her doctor won't even think about allowing her to go home until her temperature drops and stabilizes in a more normal range.
Monday, September 28, 2009
More delays
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. Her release from the hospital appears to have been delayed again. I'm not completely sure why; I'm not aware of any complications or problems with her recovery. I'm only speculating here, but my best guess is that her doctor is becoming reluctant to send her home with all those tubes hanging from her. It's quite a chore for her to crawl into and out of bed with them, and she can only sleep on her back (which becomes very uncomfortable after a while). I know my preference is for her to have all the tubes out prior to coming home. Time will tell.
Wendi's recovery is going nicely. She is eating solid food every day (but limited to "soft" items for now), and today was supposedly the last day she would receive any nutrition through her IV. She's complaining of being very bored at the hospital, and she really wants to come home. Aside from the obvious problem of the tubes that are not ready to be removed, she is also very weak from being bedridden for nearly two weeks. It's all she can do to walk around the hospital floor a few times each day; for her, it's about the equivalent of the rest of us jogging several miles. She has quite a bit of physical therapy in her future.
Right now it looks like she will be discharged from the hospital towards the end of this week. As always, I'll post an update when I know more.
Wendi's recovery is going nicely. She is eating solid food every day (but limited to "soft" items for now), and today was supposedly the last day she would receive any nutrition through her IV. She's complaining of being very bored at the hospital, and she really wants to come home. Aside from the obvious problem of the tubes that are not ready to be removed, she is also very weak from being bedridden for nearly two weeks. It's all she can do to walk around the hospital floor a few times each day; for her, it's about the equivalent of the rest of us jogging several miles. She has quite a bit of physical therapy in her future.
Right now it looks like she will be discharged from the hospital towards the end of this week. As always, I'll post an update when I know more.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Getting better one day at a time
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. She is still in the hospital, although she is slowly improving each day. She did not get the kidney stent removed after all; there were scheduling problems so her doctor decided against the procedure. There is no harm in leaving the stent in place for the time being. She is more alert, and she doesn't have a CNA in the room watching her nearly as much as she once did. She started eating solid food on Friday, but she ate such a small amount that she still has to receive most of her nutrition through an IV bag. She probably needs a few days to work up to normal amounts of food.
Wendi has spoken with the discharge planner a couple of times. Right now it looks like she will be discharged next Monday or Tuesday. She will still have some tubes in her for another week or two, but no IV bags (we hope).
Wendi has spoken with the discharge planner a couple of times. Right now it looks like she will be discharged next Monday or Tuesday. She will still have some tubes in her for another week or two, but no IV bags (we hope).
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Patience is a virtue
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. She's still in the hospital, and she still has a CNA watching over her most of the time. She is improving slowly from both a physical and mental standpoint. Her doctor is taking things slow; she's still on an all-liquid diet, and her main source of nutrition is a bag of sugar water pumped through an IV. She's scheduled to have one of her kidney stents removed on Thursday, but the tubes have to stay in there for a while... possibly another week or two. Her doctor told me that she will still have tubes in her when she is discharged from the hospital; that will make it difficult for her to sleep. Once she comes home, she will be very weak, so she will need to build up her strength over time. Right now it's all she can do to go on short walks around the hospital floor with the aid of a walker.
I have to admit, I would feel much better about the situation if she had all the tubes out of her before being discharged from the hospital, but I suppose it can't be helped. Better safe than sorry... We're not exactly sure when she will be discharged; best guess, it will be early next week. At the very least, she will need to be eating solid food, which she has not done since the surgery.
I have to admit, I would feel much better about the situation if she had all the tubes out of her before being discharged from the hospital, but I suppose it can't be helped. Better safe than sorry... We're not exactly sure when she will be discharged; best guess, it will be early next week. At the very least, she will need to be eating solid food, which she has not done since the surgery.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Out of the ICU
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. I'm happy to report that I was wrong about how much time she would need to spend in the ICU. She was transferred to the surgical recovery section this afternoon. She is still not completely coherent, but she is improving slowly. From a physical standpoint, she is doing quite well. She keeps trying to stand up and walk around without telling the nurses, so she has a CNA watching her most of the time. If she accidentally pulls any tubes, she could subject herself to additional surgery and extend her hospital stay. She has her cell phone in her room now, so feel free to call her. She also has a landline phone in her hospital room; send me or Wendi a private message on Facebook if you want the number. (I'll get the message either way, at least until she comes home.)
On Tuesday, she is scheduled to begin physical and occupational therapy. That makes sense, considering that she has been bedridden for almost a week. She is most likely not coming home until all the tubes are out; best guess, that will be towards the end of the week.
On Tuesday, she is scheduled to begin physical and occupational therapy. That makes sense, considering that she has been bedridden for almost a week. She is most likely not coming home until all the tubes are out; best guess, that will be towards the end of the week.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Driving the nurses batty
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. At the rate she's going, I think the nurses are personally going to insist that she be moved out of the ICU. She's driving them batty. She's moving around quite a bit more, rolling around in the hospital bed and trying to sit and stand up. There's nothing wrong with any of that; the nurses have been helping her do all that, but she's trying to move around when they're not there — bad idea when she has about half a dozen tubes and IV lines in her.
Wendi has always been very self-reliant, and I was certainly seeing that today. Since she is still on a bunch of medications, she is not entirely coherent, but she is improving slowly. From a physical standpoint, she seems to be making excellent progress. She wants to leave the hospital entirely, but she can't even leave the ICU until her doctor is happy with the condition of her kidneys. My suspicion is that she will end up spending most or all of her remaining hospital recovery time in the ICU. Time will tell.
Wendi has always been very self-reliant, and I was certainly seeing that today. Since she is still on a bunch of medications, she is not entirely coherent, but she is improving slowly. From a physical standpoint, she seems to be making excellent progress. She wants to leave the hospital entirely, but she can't even leave the ICU until her doctor is happy with the condition of her kidneys. My suspicion is that she will end up spending most or all of her remaining hospital recovery time in the ICU. Time will tell.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Slow and steady progress
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. She is doing better overall; she occasionally has trouble communicating, but that is more the exception than the rule. She is awake more often, and she has asked for a television set in her room. She has also asked for her cell phone, but the ICU will not allow that. I mentioned the other day that she had a procedure called percutaneous nephrostomy on one of her kidneys. Today she had the same procedure done to the other kidney, since her doctor did not notice any improvement after the first procedure. Determining which kidney was damaged, and where, is apparently a tricky business.
Barring any more unexpected complications, it looks like Wendi will be moved out of the ICU within a day or two. Most of her vital signs are in normal territory, but she is still anemic because of all the blood she lost. (She received a transfusion of two units of blood during the surgery, which is just under two pints.) To be transferred out of the ICU, she will need the consent of the attending physician in the ICU, who I'm sure will check with Dr. Bahador to get his input. After that, she will remain in the hospital, probably in the surgical recovery section, for at least a few more days.
Barring any more unexpected complications, it looks like Wendi will be moved out of the ICU within a day or two. Most of her vital signs are in normal territory, but she is still anemic because of all the blood she lost. (She received a transfusion of two units of blood during the surgery, which is just under two pints.) To be transferred out of the ICU, she will need the consent of the attending physician in the ICU, who I'm sure will check with Dr. Bahador to get his input. After that, she will remain in the hospital, probably in the surgical recovery section, for at least a few more days.
Friday, September 18, 2009
The hits just keep on coming
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. She has mostly joined the rest of us in the conscious realm, and she is able to communicate to some degree. She occasionally fades out and falls asleep, but she is starting to recover. Despite the procedure she had done the other day, Dr. Bahador is still concerned that normal function has not been restored, so she had a scan done tonight. She may need a follow-up procedure; I'm sure we will find out within the next few days.
Dr. Bahador met with Wendi today in the ICU; her father and I were also there. He mentioned that Wendi's surgery was extremely difficult, mainly because of the distention caused by the tumors. He also told us that there is an area of concern in Wendi's lungs. When she got a CT scan in late August, it showed small nodules in her lungs. You cannot really make an accurate determination on such small nodules; however, in the scan she had done earlier today, the nodules appear to be larger. It is premature to say that they are cancerous; a CT scan alone is not sufficient to reach that conclusion. However, her doctor is concerned enough to bring it to our attention. Obviously, it will be closely monitored, but she has to recover from the surgery before her doctor will even consider giving her chemo, radiation, etc.
As always, we are hopeful that Wendi will be able to beat this terrible illness. If anyone can beat it, she can. She's a fighter, and she's determined to fight for her life until she doesn't have a breath left in her. However, the reality is that she has a rare form of uterine cancer. It has already shown itself to be aggressive and at least partially resistant to chemotherapy. She has a tough battle ahead of her; she would greatly appreciate any support, prayers, good thoughts, etc. you can give her. If you want to call her, she's not always awake, but you can call Scripps Memorial at 858-626-4123 and ask to be connected to the Intensive Care Unit (where she will be for at least a few more days). Please do not attempt to send gifts or flowers right now, since it is unlikely that the ICU will allow them.
Dr. Bahador met with Wendi today in the ICU; her father and I were also there. He mentioned that Wendi's surgery was extremely difficult, mainly because of the distention caused by the tumors. He also told us that there is an area of concern in Wendi's lungs. When she got a CT scan in late August, it showed small nodules in her lungs. You cannot really make an accurate determination on such small nodules; however, in the scan she had done earlier today, the nodules appear to be larger. It is premature to say that they are cancerous; a CT scan alone is not sufficient to reach that conclusion. However, her doctor is concerned enough to bring it to our attention. Obviously, it will be closely monitored, but she has to recover from the surgery before her doctor will even consider giving her chemo, radiation, etc.
As always, we are hopeful that Wendi will be able to beat this terrible illness. If anyone can beat it, she can. She's a fighter, and she's determined to fight for her life until she doesn't have a breath left in her. However, the reality is that she has a rare form of uterine cancer. It has already shown itself to be aggressive and at least partially resistant to chemotherapy. She has a tough battle ahead of her; she would greatly appreciate any support, prayers, good thoughts, etc. you can give her. If you want to call her, she's not always awake, but you can call Scripps Memorial at 858-626-4123 and ask to be connected to the Intensive Care Unit (where she will be for at least a few more days). Please do not attempt to send gifts or flowers right now, since it is unlikely that the ICU will allow them.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Post-surgical complications
This is Brian with another update on Wendi. I spoke too soon about her not needing to go into the ICU. She experienced a few post-surgical complications... nothing life-threatening, but she had to be moved into the ICU because of them. The first complication was from the mix of medications that were being pumped into her after surgery; I think I counted half a dozen tubes going into her at one point, each with a different medication. Late Tuesday evening, she lost her ability to communicate coherently. Right now she is so drugged out that she is not completely conscious; she does not recognize or acknowledge us when we are in the room and she cannot talk to us. It is truly frightening to watch, but several doctors have assured me that such a reaction is not uncommon for someone who had such radical surgery. She seems to be doing better each day, and it's our hope and expectation that she will be able to join the rest of us in the conscious realm by this weekend.
The second complication was that one of her kidneys suffered a small amount of damage during the surgery. (That is a very common occurrence during such surgeries.) To fix the damage, her doctor ordered a procedure known as percutaneous nephrostomy. The procedure went well; there were no problems observed.
The second complication was that one of her kidneys suffered a small amount of damage during the surgery. (That is a very common occurrence during such surgeries.) To fix the damage, her doctor ordered a procedure known as percutaneous nephrostomy. The procedure went well; there were no problems observed.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Wendi is out of surgery
This is Brian updating the blog for Wendi while she is in the hospital. She had the surgery on Sept. 15; it started around 8:15 a.m. and took about five hours to complete. About three hours later, she regained consciousness and was moved to a hospital bed. Her doctor mentioned that it was a very difficult surgery, due to the distention caused by the tumors. One of them had reached 10 cm in diameter, about the size of a small grapefruit. From an overall standpoint, the surgery went well. There was some initial anticipation that she might require a day or two in the ICU post-surgery, but that did not turn out to be necessary. She will be recovering for about a week or so in the hospital, then for another month or two at home.
The surgery did not remove every trace of cancer, and we were never misled into believing that it would. As soon as her doctor deems it appropriate, she will go back on chemotherapy, then radiation after that. The current plan is to give her four rounds of chemo (12 weeks total), then eight weeks of radiation after that. Of course, that is all subject to change at any time, depending on how she responds to the treatment.
The surgery did not remove every trace of cancer, and we were never misled into believing that it would. As soon as her doctor deems it appropriate, she will go back on chemotherapy, then radiation after that. The current plan is to give her four rounds of chemo (12 weeks total), then eight weeks of radiation after that. Of course, that is all subject to change at any time, depending on how she responds to the treatment.
Monday, September 14, 2009
FUTURE UPDATES....
Tomorrow is the big surgery day. Thanks to everyone for the calls, emails and encouragement.
I'm not really sure what to say at this point. I'm sure this is going to be tough, but I will get through it.
My husband will be taking over the blogs from here for a week or so...
I'm not really sure what to say at this point. I'm sure this is going to be tough, but I will get through it.
My husband will be taking over the blogs from here for a week or so...
Sunday, September 13, 2009
MAY SOUND WEIRD BUT........
as much pain I will be in after the surgery, it sure will be better than the pressure I feel on my bladder currently!
Tomorrow, it will be the Jell-O diet! I can have strictly clear liquids. I really don't want any chicken/beef broth because it will give me heart burn. Hubby is going to the grocery store - also to get some Jell-O. I just hope hubby gets enough Jell-O for the 2 of us! The day will be like a Jell-O eating contest - we will see who finishes his/her portion first!
Tomorrow, it will be the Jell-O diet! I can have strictly clear liquids. I really don't want any chicken/beef broth because it will give me heart burn. Hubby is going to the grocery store - also to get some Jell-O. I just hope hubby gets enough Jell-O for the 2 of us! The day will be like a Jell-O eating contest - we will see who finishes his/her portion first!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
MORE PAIN, PRESSURE AND FATIGUE
I know for a fact that I would not have made it until the 29th. Just a few more days to go!
Along the way I've had people tell me that I am "brave," and an "inspiration." I'm not sure what that means when I'm relying on Dr Bahador to save my life. It is just another obstacle that I have to deal with at this time. I am enjoying some of the smaller things along the way.
Just a favorite story: One of the things happens to be an antique gadget that hubby bought for me during a trip to a mountain bed & breakfast. The place was modeled after the Victorian era full of antiques from that time also. The place was shutting down and we were some of the last guests to stay there. I happened upon the "gadget" called a stereocope. It is kind of like a view master from when I was a kid - except it has lenses and square picture cards that you put on the end of it. We also bought the cards as well. Some of them are old...from the turn of the previous century. Because I can't move around as much right now I get to fiddle around a little more. No, I am not bored or completely helpless. I am just enjoying what I can for the time being.
For me at least, enjoyment of life is a choice, no matter how trivial the activity may be or how much pain I'm going through. I'm taking life moment by moment right now, and yes there is some enjoyment along the way...
Along the way I've had people tell me that I am "brave," and an "inspiration." I'm not sure what that means when I'm relying on Dr Bahador to save my life. It is just another obstacle that I have to deal with at this time. I am enjoying some of the smaller things along the way.
Just a favorite story: One of the things happens to be an antique gadget that hubby bought for me during a trip to a mountain bed & breakfast. The place was modeled after the Victorian era full of antiques from that time also. The place was shutting down and we were some of the last guests to stay there. I happened upon the "gadget" called a stereocope. It is kind of like a view master from when I was a kid - except it has lenses and square picture cards that you put on the end of it. We also bought the cards as well. Some of them are old...from the turn of the previous century. Because I can't move around as much right now I get to fiddle around a little more. No, I am not bored or completely helpless. I am just enjoying what I can for the time being.
For me at least, enjoyment of life is a choice, no matter how trivial the activity may be or how much pain I'm going through. I'm taking life moment by moment right now, and yes there is some enjoyment along the way...
Thursday, September 10, 2009
PRE-OPERATIVE VISIT
First of all, I am getting more fatigued as the days go on. I'm so HAPPY that the surgery date was moved up. I know I will be in pain after the surgery, but the end results will be worth it!
Today my mom took me to the hospital to have some pre-operative things done - blood & urine tests, chest X-ray, and EKG. That took all morning. I am so tired even though I was pushed around in a wheel chair (that had a hard seat and left me in more pain). I'm sleeping on the squishy air mattress tonight.
I have a lot of pre-surgery prep to do...such as taking potassium pills the night before, liquid-only diet the day before, etc.
My mom had brought an aerobed for me to sleep on after surgery when I am home. We had a discussion about that today. She is concerned that I will not be able to get up very easily due to the abdominal muscles being used. The mattress is the height of a couch and squishy. She said that she and my dad want to rent a hospital bed after I come home from surgery. She is concerned about the level of pain I might experience from getting up. It would be easier to get up from the hospital bed. We will bring the subject up with the coordinator at the hospital to see if it is necessary. I do have to say that my mom's offer is very generous. I think my insurance may cover it too.
Today my mom took me to the hospital to have some pre-operative things done - blood & urine tests, chest X-ray, and EKG. That took all morning. I am so tired even though I was pushed around in a wheel chair (that had a hard seat and left me in more pain). I'm sleeping on the squishy air mattress tonight.
I have a lot of pre-surgery prep to do...such as taking potassium pills the night before, liquid-only diet the day before, etc.
My mom had brought an aerobed for me to sleep on after surgery when I am home. We had a discussion about that today. She is concerned that I will not be able to get up very easily due to the abdominal muscles being used. The mattress is the height of a couch and squishy. She said that she and my dad want to rent a hospital bed after I come home from surgery. She is concerned about the level of pain I might experience from getting up. It would be easier to get up from the hospital bed. We will bring the subject up with the coordinator at the hospital to see if it is necessary. I do have to say that my mom's offer is very generous. I think my insurance may cover it too.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
SURGERY!!! TUESDAY SEPT 15
I have only 6 days until my surgery! Dr. Bahador managed to bump his schedule around. He said considering my daily life limitations currently, it was necessary to move it up from Sept 29.
He is performing a surgery that is much more complex than the total hysterectomies he typically does. My surgery will be 4-6 hrs long. I will have an incision from just below the sternum to about to the top of the pubic bone. He will be removing lymph nodes (where the torso meets abdomen, and upper abdomen), uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, etc. He will have to see what else is going on inside. The incisions will have to have what he referred to as "clear margins." In other words, he may take some healthy tissue along with the cancer to be sure he took out as much cancer.
A possible side effect of the surgery is a condition called "lyphedema." Because he is removing some of my lymph nodes my circulation will be affected. Depending on my reaction to the surgery I could be required to wear compression stockings for this condition on a long-term basis. The stockings provide support on the legs and prevent fluid from accumulating, thereby avoiding looking "puffy." I will be going to a "lyphedema clinic" a little while after the surgery for some education of the condition and preventive care instructions.
Tomorrow I will get my pre-operative tests - EKG, chest x-ray, blood tests. On the day of surgery I will check in at 6 a.m. and surgery is due to start at 8 a.m.
I also called my work supervisor today and advised that I will not be coming into work for a conference re: changes to my leave of absence. (This is before I found out about my surgery date). She is aware that it will be quite sometime before I will be in contact with her.
The immediate family is in the works to see how they can help with my care when I come home.
It is possible that I will have visits from a home health nurse after I get home.
He is performing a surgery that is much more complex than the total hysterectomies he typically does. My surgery will be 4-6 hrs long. I will have an incision from just below the sternum to about to the top of the pubic bone. He will be removing lymph nodes (where the torso meets abdomen, and upper abdomen), uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, etc. He will have to see what else is going on inside. The incisions will have to have what he referred to as "clear margins." In other words, he may take some healthy tissue along with the cancer to be sure he took out as much cancer.
A possible side effect of the surgery is a condition called "lyphedema." Because he is removing some of my lymph nodes my circulation will be affected. Depending on my reaction to the surgery I could be required to wear compression stockings for this condition on a long-term basis. The stockings provide support on the legs and prevent fluid from accumulating, thereby avoiding looking "puffy." I will be going to a "lyphedema clinic" a little while after the surgery for some education of the condition and preventive care instructions.
Tomorrow I will get my pre-operative tests - EKG, chest x-ray, blood tests. On the day of surgery I will check in at 6 a.m. and surgery is due to start at 8 a.m.
I also called my work supervisor today and advised that I will not be coming into work for a conference re: changes to my leave of absence. (This is before I found out about my surgery date). She is aware that it will be quite sometime before I will be in contact with her.
The immediate family is in the works to see how they can help with my care when I come home.
It is possible that I will have visits from a home health nurse after I get home.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Finally...sleep!
I was prescribed an aid to help me sleep. I managed to get a nap this afternoon. I expect to feel better within the next few days. Feeling better rested and staying off my feet more is helping deal with the pain. My doctor also advised on a change in my current pain medication routine.
My mom is going to be over tomorrow and bring an aerobed mattress. My plan is to stay off my feet as much as possible. I can stay downstairs by day (for now) - I'll have access to a restroom, kitchen & T.V. I won't have to move quite as far. I also plan to have plenty of pillows around me. If the pain gets to be too much, then I will stay downstairs until the surgery. Hubby understands that I can't help around the house as much as I have been previous to the pain escalating. Driving is out of the question. All we can do at this point is to make me as comfortable as possible. After speaking w/ Dr. Bahador late this afternoon and pain medication adjustments things seem to be starting to improve. I was able to sleep for about 4 hours. This evening I did manage to eat a little more for dinner than I have in the past few days. I think with less movement and a slight change in pain/sleep management I should be more comfortable for awhile.
My mom is going to be over tomorrow and bring an aerobed mattress. My plan is to stay off my feet as much as possible. I can stay downstairs by day (for now) - I'll have access to a restroom, kitchen & T.V. I won't have to move quite as far. I also plan to have plenty of pillows around me. If the pain gets to be too much, then I will stay downstairs until the surgery. Hubby understands that I can't help around the house as much as I have been previous to the pain escalating. Driving is out of the question. All we can do at this point is to make me as comfortable as possible. After speaking w/ Dr. Bahador late this afternoon and pain medication adjustments things seem to be starting to improve. I was able to sleep for about 4 hours. This evening I did manage to eat a little more for dinner than I have in the past few days. I think with less movement and a slight change in pain/sleep management I should be more comfortable for awhile.
Surgery? WHEN????
My M.D. doesn't have me scheduled for surgery until Sept 29. In the meantime, I'm stuck bed ridden during that time with great pain. I am so angry with him! He has his schedule so booked up that he can't even squeeze in an urgent case. I was told I could go to the ER to be admitted. However, he would end up doing the 4-6 hour surgery starting at 10 p.m. - which according to him would be dangerous due to the fact that he would be tired at the end of the day. I was also told that I could be admitted to the hospital for pain management. I really don't want to do that if I can help it. My hospital bill for a 3 week stay would be beyond staggering. I got my last hospital bill for the 4 1/2 days I was in last time. I will be bedridden and sleeping a lot to control the pain for at least the next several weeks.
My husband may take over this blog to let everyone know what is going on. I'm trying to stay off my feet as much as possible...
My husband may take over this blog to let everyone know what is going on. I'm trying to stay off my feet as much as possible...
Saturday, September 5, 2009
8/5/09 picture of me dressed up...
This is what I look like most of the time when out in public. It has been so roasty hot outside that I've ventured out with just a head scarf and a hat during the day. Typically I try to wear the wig in public places where I think the stares would be too much to take. I'm trying to look as presentable as possible. I think I look and feel better.
Good Times
Hubby's entire immediate family (spouse, girlfriend) drove from Redlands and Monterey to visit. I had a great time. I was able to see the new addition, too! Our townhouse barely could hold that large of a group! Dad B. took us to a nearby Greek restaurant. Again, I could only eat a small meal. Afterwards we went back to our townhouse. It was such a hot day. The best part of the visit was watching everybody start dozing off once the airconditioning was turned up and cold ice-cream bars were eaten. Thanks everyone!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Rest and fatigue...
This week I have been sleeping a lot more. It may be from some pain medication or the pain itself. I have to take several hours and lounge or sleep to help control the pain. I move really slow. My mom took me by the grocery store - and once again, I am riding the old people scooter...maybe to stand apart from the old people I should paint flames down the side of the scooter, and wear leather all over.
Hubby & I are trying to arrange to see some friends before I go to surgery. I won't be socializing very much after surgery.
Not much else to say right now. For once, having a quiet evening w/ hubby...
Hubby & I are trying to arrange to see some friends before I go to surgery. I won't be socializing very much after surgery.
Not much else to say right now. For once, having a quiet evening w/ hubby...
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Change of plans....
I visited Dr Bahador today. I also did get a copy of the CT scan final report just in time for the appt (so did the medical office!).
After reading the report I was a little concerned by what it said - even though I know it requires a doctor to really interpret it.
During the dr's visit I was advised that the mass inside my uterus is indeed getting bigger. But what we are looking at is dead tissue being pushed against my pelvis (which explains the pain). The mass is getting bigger, but not necessarily by the live cancer. There is a strong possibility that there is fluid build up inside it. According to the doctor that although the blood test (CA125) that measures the presence of cancer cells w/in the body has reduced dramatically once since the first round of chemo, I had a "mixed result" to the chemo. My lymph nodes have shrunk dramatically. The uterine mass was affected only in the beginning. A few new nodules have appeared in the uterus though. But they are small enough to remove surgically...and yes, I will be in surgery w/in the next 3 weeks! And no more chemo until after the surgery. The CT scan was a very useful tool for the doctor after-all. (Waiting 6 hours on Sunday in Urgent Care was not fun!)
For now, the plan is that I will not be returning to work until after surgery. Hubby & I will be seeing the doctor on Wed for a more in depth discussion re: surgery.
If for some reason I have excessive bleeding or intolerable pain the doctor advised me to go to the ER for hospital admission. Surgery would then follow immediately. That is not the preferable route of care - preferably planned as scheduled.
I will be having a meeting or some type of discussion w/ HR and my bosses re: currently needing time off.
After reading the report I was a little concerned by what it said - even though I know it requires a doctor to really interpret it.
During the dr's visit I was advised that the mass inside my uterus is indeed getting bigger. But what we are looking at is dead tissue being pushed against my pelvis (which explains the pain). The mass is getting bigger, but not necessarily by the live cancer. There is a strong possibility that there is fluid build up inside it. According to the doctor that although the blood test (CA125) that measures the presence of cancer cells w/in the body has reduced dramatically once since the first round of chemo, I had a "mixed result" to the chemo. My lymph nodes have shrunk dramatically. The uterine mass was affected only in the beginning. A few new nodules have appeared in the uterus though. But they are small enough to remove surgically...and yes, I will be in surgery w/in the next 3 weeks! And no more chemo until after the surgery. The CT scan was a very useful tool for the doctor after-all. (Waiting 6 hours on Sunday in Urgent Care was not fun!)
For now, the plan is that I will not be returning to work until after surgery. Hubby & I will be seeing the doctor on Wed for a more in depth discussion re: surgery.
If for some reason I have excessive bleeding or intolerable pain the doctor advised me to go to the ER for hospital admission. Surgery would then follow immediately. That is not the preferable route of care - preferably planned as scheduled.
I will be having a meeting or some type of discussion w/ HR and my bosses re: currently needing time off.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Scrambling to get records again...
Tues, Sept 1 - Well, once again family & hubby involved to be sure that I get the records together for the doctor's visit on Wed (tomorrow). I've been on the phone twice a day with the medical records department where I had my urgent care visit. Even though the doctor may order other tests, I still want him to have the report from my CT scan. It never ceases to amaze me how much you have to be your own advocate in the healthcare system. For example, I've been calling medical records for the past 2 days. Upon my inquiry as to the status of my CT report, I'll get a response of "it takes 3 days minimum for it to post." (Even then I can't be guaranteed that I will be able to get a copy in that short order). I called again this afternoon, explained my situation, and the keys to the kingdom opened the door....the clerk said she would call the transcription department and try to speed up the process. I am hoping to have that report in hand by tomorrow's appt.
As for today - a few concerned friends called to make sure I was okay because they did not hear from me for a few days. It was great to talk with them. Also I received a thoughtful care package - thanks cousin C & Fam! Hubby, Caring friends and family is what keeps things going...
I'll update tomorrow...
As for today - a few concerned friends called to make sure I was okay because they did not hear from me for a few days. It was great to talk with them. Also I received a thoughtful care package - thanks cousin C & Fam! Hubby, Caring friends and family is what keeps things going...
I'll update tomorrow...
Monday, August 31, 2009
Setbacks...
Hubby's family visited this past Sat, Aug 29. Had a great time.
Over the past week some of my symptoms have started to return. I have been experiencing increased pain and lower pelvis swelling again. I see my doctor on Wed.
I ended up in Urgent Care Sunday (2 pm) afternoon, and I did not get out until 8 pm! I am back on a strong pain medication again. The urgent care doctor had ordered a CAT scan of the pelvis. The results came back with "good news" and "have to wait for cancer doctor to assess news." The good news is that the lymph nodes are shrinking. The second part is that the "mass" inside the uterus has increased in size. I can't really panic at this point because the image can't just be a straight interpretation that the cancerous tumor has grown bigger.
I spoke with hubby's dad and he had speculated that a CAT scan does not show what part of the tumor is dead and what part is still viable. There are other speculations such as maybe fluid accumulating in that area. Also, what doesn't make sense to me is why the lymph nodes would shrink and not the tumor in the uterus. How this is interpreted will be up to my cancer doctor this Wed.
In the meantime I will be staying home from work. :-(
Over the past week some of my symptoms have started to return. I have been experiencing increased pain and lower pelvis swelling again. I see my doctor on Wed.
I ended up in Urgent Care Sunday (2 pm) afternoon, and I did not get out until 8 pm! I am back on a strong pain medication again. The urgent care doctor had ordered a CAT scan of the pelvis. The results came back with "good news" and "have to wait for cancer doctor to assess news." The good news is that the lymph nodes are shrinking. The second part is that the "mass" inside the uterus has increased in size. I can't really panic at this point because the image can't just be a straight interpretation that the cancerous tumor has grown bigger.
I spoke with hubby's dad and he had speculated that a CAT scan does not show what part of the tumor is dead and what part is still viable. There are other speculations such as maybe fluid accumulating in that area. Also, what doesn't make sense to me is why the lymph nodes would shrink and not the tumor in the uterus. How this is interpreted will be up to my cancer doctor this Wed.
In the meantime I will be staying home from work. :-(
Friday, August 21, 2009
Relaxing at the "Country Club"
I've hit a snag in this week's treatment. I was supposed to get my 2nd chemo treatment in round 2. The morning of what was supposed to be my second week of treatment (Thurs, Aug 20), round 2, the chemo nurse called and said I won't be getting the treatment. My blood test from the week showed elevated liver enzymes. Nothing to worry about I was told, but we will have to wait until they come down into a normal level. I see my M.D. next week and it is possible I may get the treatment then. If I don't, I shouldn't worry too much. I had received the more powerful chemo treatment last week anyway.
How is my life going? I was experiencing some stress with work. It turns out that once my allotment of Family Leave and Personal Leave is exhausted I will probably have to sit down with HR and figure out where I will have to be placed. It is possible my treatment will go beyond the time allotment of the leaves of absence. Therefore, I may have to be placed in a different job position. My work can hold my position for only so long.
I'm now up to working 8 hours a day 3 days a week and one 4 hour 1/2 day (I was working 40 hours a week before I was diagnosed). I'm doing better energy wise. I have a nice break from the usual crazy paced medical departments I usually work in. I've been sent off-site from my regular clinic to a clinic I like to call the "country club." It is a weight/endocrinology clinic. It is also the only office affiliated with my organization in the building it occupies. The atmosphere is very easy-going. I really need that right now.
How is my life going? I was experiencing some stress with work. It turns out that once my allotment of Family Leave and Personal Leave is exhausted I will probably have to sit down with HR and figure out where I will have to be placed. It is possible my treatment will go beyond the time allotment of the leaves of absence. Therefore, I may have to be placed in a different job position. My work can hold my position for only so long.
I'm now up to working 8 hours a day 3 days a week and one 4 hour 1/2 day (I was working 40 hours a week before I was diagnosed). I'm doing better energy wise. I have a nice break from the usual crazy paced medical departments I usually work in. I've been sent off-site from my regular clinic to a clinic I like to call the "country club." It is a weight/endocrinology clinic. It is also the only office affiliated with my organization in the building it occupies. The atmosphere is very easy-going. I really need that right now.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Ding! Ding! Round 2!!!
I just started round 2 of chemo on Thurs, Aug 13. I'm 1/2 way done with the 3 rounds of chemo Dr. Bahador said I would start with. It is just the beginning of round 2. After the 3 rounds I am scheduled for another PET scan to see how my progress is going.
My parents are on vacation during this time (well deserved). My father-in-law cleared his busy schedule to be with me during administration of my round 2 first chemo. My husband has to work during those days. Everyone just wanted to be sure I had someone to watch me in case something went wrong (i.e. needing to be take to urgent care in case of high fever, excessive vomiting).
I really enjoyed having him visit. Although I was tired after the chemo, my husband, dad B., and I did get out a little bit.
I did return to work last week. I am trying to communicate with my supervisor as to my needs, while keeping up with my job duties.
How do I feel currently feel about my situation? Cared about - even strangers express empathy. This is something I thought I would never experience again. I had experienced an outpouring of empathy and care, after 911 during my previous flight attendant career. I must admit I do wish sometimes that I was in a different situation. Life does throw curve at you sometimes...knock it out of the park. People are making the process easier to deal with.
My parents are on vacation during this time (well deserved). My father-in-law cleared his busy schedule to be with me during administration of my round 2 first chemo. My husband has to work during those days. Everyone just wanted to be sure I had someone to watch me in case something went wrong (i.e. needing to be take to urgent care in case of high fever, excessive vomiting).
I really enjoyed having him visit. Although I was tired after the chemo, my husband, dad B., and I did get out a little bit.
I did return to work last week. I am trying to communicate with my supervisor as to my needs, while keeping up with my job duties.
How do I feel currently feel about my situation? Cared about - even strangers express empathy. This is something I thought I would never experience again. I had experienced an outpouring of empathy and care, after 911 during my previous flight attendant career. I must admit I do wish sometimes that I was in a different situation. Life does throw curve at you sometimes...knock it out of the park. People are making the process easier to deal with.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
This is from last Saturday. I had my wig styled. Just the "before and after" 
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Biggest and Best Meal Yet!
Okay in the middle of all this depressing cancer stuff - I have to say that an evening for dinner at friends' Ron & Beth has been one of the biggest highlights socially that I've had since starting the chemo. I have to say that food for the past three weeks has been something I had to choke down just to keep my energy going.
Tonight was a true feast that I was able to indulge in and enjoy. We were food testers for our aspiring chef friend, Ron. For weeks I have been trying to just be able to enjoy a meal without having nausea, vomiting, or a roughed-up stomach. I had none of that tonight! Plus I had my first cherries Jubilee!
Tonight was a true feast that I was able to indulge in and enjoy. We were food testers for our aspiring chef friend, Ron. For weeks I have been trying to just be able to enjoy a meal without having nausea, vomiting, or a roughed-up stomach. I had none of that tonight! Plus I had my first cherries Jubilee!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Progress pictures
The first image is where the chemo port was surgically installed. I had the first chemo a few hours after the surgery.
The second image I had to go into the doctor's office to be re-hydrated via IV after the supposedly "easy" week of chemo. I wasn't too happy that day.
The other images were from the day I tried on wigs. The last wig I tried on was the winner. I still have to get it fitted, styled, and trimmed a bit. As of Wednesday, Aug 5, My hair was coming out really fast. Husband, Brian, had to cut my hair. I now look like I've joined the Marine Corps. I will be adding more of those photos in another blog later.
The last photo is of my dad considering his next career as a rock star - look out Mick Jagger!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Perpetual flu
So far, being on chemo is like having the perpetual flu or pregnant (like I'd know about that one?). Out of all the more common ailments to get during the winter, I really hated getting the flu. I would religiously get my flu shot every winter. I'd do anything and everything to avoid any events leading up to the hurl.
After chemo and I had to go back to the doctor's office to be re-hydrated via an IV the next day. The nurse said to me, think of the nausea as it feels like to be pregnant. I half-laughed and said, "I have no clue what that feels like." I then made a joke later to my mom about how God is getting me back for avoiding the experience of pregnancy within this life-time.
My white-blood cell count is supposed to be at their lowest levels, so I can't do anything/see anyone, this weekend. All I want to do is recover from all the nausea. Next week I have off from the chemo and I have a meeting with the doctor.
After chemo and I had to go back to the doctor's office to be re-hydrated via an IV the next day. The nurse said to me, think of the nausea as it feels like to be pregnant. I half-laughed and said, "I have no clue what that feels like." I then made a joke later to my mom about how God is getting me back for avoiding the experience of pregnancy within this life-time.
My white-blood cell count is supposed to be at their lowest levels, so I can't do anything/see anyone, this weekend. All I want to do is recover from all the nausea. Next week I have off from the chemo and I have a meeting with the doctor.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
This is supposed to be the "easy" week of chemo?
I had chemo this morning and subsequently threw-up this evening. And I was told this was the "easy" week because I only have one chemo drug administered.
I was starting to feel a bit better after the last week of chemo. I suppose I took it for granted by having a panini sandwich just after I had this last session.
I can't think of how long this whole process will take. I can only break it up into pieces just to get through it. For example I'm starting 3 rounds for now. I'm now a 3rd of the way through (for now). My next chemo treatment I will be 1/2 through.
I talked to mom today and she told me how people would become much, much more ill 20 years ago, than I am experiencing from chemo today.
I'm really, really tired today. Sometime this week, hubby & I will be giving me a buzz-cut. All my hair is going to fall out anyway. Might as well stop it from clogging the drain.
When I'm feeling better I'll talk about my visit to the cancer-patient wig store.
Too tired for now.
I was starting to feel a bit better after the last week of chemo. I suppose I took it for granted by having a panini sandwich just after I had this last session.
I can't think of how long this whole process will take. I can only break it up into pieces just to get through it. For example I'm starting 3 rounds for now. I'm now a 3rd of the way through (for now). My next chemo treatment I will be 1/2 through.
I talked to mom today and she told me how people would become much, much more ill 20 years ago, than I am experiencing from chemo today.
I'm really, really tired today. Sometime this week, hubby & I will be giving me a buzz-cut. All my hair is going to fall out anyway. Might as well stop it from clogging the drain.
When I'm feeling better I'll talk about my visit to the cancer-patient wig store.
Too tired for now.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
What does being a cancer patient feel like?
Well, I suppose that depends on the person.
Let me pose this to you.....if you knew you would be afflicted with some health problem sometime in your life, what could YOU handle.
Back-track to my early 20's. I had a serious health issue during that time that I had a great deal of difficulty handling on an emotional/intellectual level. I had a nurse tell me that if it were anything else (such as cancer) maybe I would handle it better. Kind of ironic here I find myself today with this diagnosis. Scary? yes. mentally crippling? No.
Try dropping the "C" bomb on your family when you have to tell them. I really hated doing that! The reaction from them ran through a range of emotional reactions.
I've had 1 round of chemo. My surgery for my chemo port instillation is still healing. I'm nauseous all the time. In fact, I threw up this morning. I have dropped some weight already. Never thought I would be glad that I'm slightly overweight like I am now. I am guaranteed to lose some poundage during this odyssey!
I'm trying to eat about every 2 hours just to be sure I get enough calories. Eating 1 small thing takes about 1/2 hour. I had to lay in bed this a.m. to finish the oatmeal I was trying to eat. Mornings are the roughest part of my day, thus far.
Oh yeah, the fatigue is constant. I'm told that it will be at the roughest point during week 1 of a round of chemo. That is when I am administered the toughest (taxotere) chemo along with Gemzar. The second week I am given Gemzar. The 3rd week I rest.
I was hoping to go back to work in some capacity. After this week, I'm thinking it will have to be in the capacity of sitting down most of the day. I'm constantly on my feet as a medical assistant. I won't be going back to that anytime soon.
Let me pose this to you.....if you knew you would be afflicted with some health problem sometime in your life, what could YOU handle.
Back-track to my early 20's. I had a serious health issue during that time that I had a great deal of difficulty handling on an emotional/intellectual level. I had a nurse tell me that if it were anything else (such as cancer) maybe I would handle it better. Kind of ironic here I find myself today with this diagnosis. Scary? yes. mentally crippling? No.
Try dropping the "C" bomb on your family when you have to tell them. I really hated doing that! The reaction from them ran through a range of emotional reactions.
I've had 1 round of chemo. My surgery for my chemo port instillation is still healing. I'm nauseous all the time. In fact, I threw up this morning. I have dropped some weight already. Never thought I would be glad that I'm slightly overweight like I am now. I am guaranteed to lose some poundage during this odyssey!
I'm trying to eat about every 2 hours just to be sure I get enough calories. Eating 1 small thing takes about 1/2 hour. I had to lay in bed this a.m. to finish the oatmeal I was trying to eat. Mornings are the roughest part of my day, thus far.
Oh yeah, the fatigue is constant. I'm told that it will be at the roughest point during week 1 of a round of chemo. That is when I am administered the toughest (taxotere) chemo along with Gemzar. The second week I am given Gemzar. The 3rd week I rest.
I was hoping to go back to work in some capacity. After this week, I'm thinking it will have to be in the capacity of sitting down most of the day. I'm constantly on my feet as a medical assistant. I won't be going back to that anytime soon.
World turned upside-down
Just less than 3 weeks ago I had no idea that I would be diagnosed with Uterine Cancer - lucky on one hand that it was detected. Supposedly it is rare to have at my age. Typically it manifests in women in their 50's to 70's. There are no symptoms. I happened to have some symptoms of a prolonged menstrual cycle accompanied by ever increasing pelvic pain. I was encouraged by the nurses at the clinic where I work to seek medical attention after I described my symptoms.
The details somewhat elude me in the last 2 weeks as things happened so fast!
I had 3 urgent care visits. During the first urgent care visit several tests were given to rule out pregnancy. One of the tests was an ultra-sound - that showed a mass inside my uterus. At this juncture Cancer could not be confirmed. That would take more testing to determine. The Urgent Care doctor was going to refer me to a gynocologist. The wait for that would have taken at least 2 weeks to get an appointment. I instead called a private practice Ob/gyn M.D. I knew well and that I had established care with previously.
I called her office and described my symptoms. I was seen the very next day. During the physical examination she did note something unusual and had to send out a specimen for biopsy. She then referred me to a gyno/oncologist, Dr Bahador. At this point I knew I would have to scramble to get my records together and have releases signed - just in case.
W/in the next several days I ended up in Urgent Care 2 more days, and mom worked hard to make sure all my records were transferred to Dr Bahador. I was scheduled to have an appt w/ Dr Bahador on Jul 22nd.
To recap that week: From Tues to Friday I was in the Urgent Care 3 times with symptoms of ever increasing pelvic pain. On Saturday the pain was so bad that my husband and mom took me to the ER. The ER doctor was going to release me from the hospital with the same medication (percocet) as I had received in Urgent Care. Obviously the pain medication was not working and I needed something stronger. My husband was able to help me be admitted to the hospital - if at least for pain management.
Within the next 3 days I met and was examined by Dr Bahador, had a CT scan, and a PET scan.
Upon the initial physical exam by Dr Bahador he did confirm that it was cancer. The extent of how much it spread was confirmed by the CT and PET scan. After the tests I was advised that I am at a level 3c in stages 1 through 4. 4 being the most difficult to treat.
Dr Bahador gave the foundation of my treatment plan which so far consists of: 1) 3 rounds of chemo over 9 weeks 2) possibly surgery at this time if it is determined more chemo is not required. 3) after surgery more chemo 4) radiation. This is subject to change based on treatment factors and how the cancer responds to said treatment.
I was in the hospital from Sat through Wed. On Jul 21 I went in for surgery to have a chemo port put in. Later that day I began chemo (Taxotere and Gemzar).
So to sum things up, my turned upside-down in less than 2 weeks.
The details somewhat elude me in the last 2 weeks as things happened so fast!
I had 3 urgent care visits. During the first urgent care visit several tests were given to rule out pregnancy. One of the tests was an ultra-sound - that showed a mass inside my uterus. At this juncture Cancer could not be confirmed. That would take more testing to determine. The Urgent Care doctor was going to refer me to a gynocologist. The wait for that would have taken at least 2 weeks to get an appointment. I instead called a private practice Ob/gyn M.D. I knew well and that I had established care with previously.
I called her office and described my symptoms. I was seen the very next day. During the physical examination she did note something unusual and had to send out a specimen for biopsy. She then referred me to a gyno/oncologist, Dr Bahador. At this point I knew I would have to scramble to get my records together and have releases signed - just in case.
W/in the next several days I ended up in Urgent Care 2 more days, and mom worked hard to make sure all my records were transferred to Dr Bahador. I was scheduled to have an appt w/ Dr Bahador on Jul 22nd.
To recap that week: From Tues to Friday I was in the Urgent Care 3 times with symptoms of ever increasing pelvic pain. On Saturday the pain was so bad that my husband and mom took me to the ER. The ER doctor was going to release me from the hospital with the same medication (percocet) as I had received in Urgent Care. Obviously the pain medication was not working and I needed something stronger. My husband was able to help me be admitted to the hospital - if at least for pain management.
Within the next 3 days I met and was examined by Dr Bahador, had a CT scan, and a PET scan.
Upon the initial physical exam by Dr Bahador he did confirm that it was cancer. The extent of how much it spread was confirmed by the CT and PET scan. After the tests I was advised that I am at a level 3c in stages 1 through 4. 4 being the most difficult to treat.
Dr Bahador gave the foundation of my treatment plan which so far consists of: 1) 3 rounds of chemo over 9 weeks 2) possibly surgery at this time if it is determined more chemo is not required. 3) after surgery more chemo 4) radiation. This is subject to change based on treatment factors and how the cancer responds to said treatment.
I was in the hospital from Sat through Wed. On Jul 21 I went in for surgery to have a chemo port put in. Later that day I began chemo (Taxotere and Gemzar).
So to sum things up, my turned upside-down in less than 2 weeks.
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