It was such a boring day that I almost forgot to write this note.
That is what happens when you are feeling good.
After supervising things at the club, I left the research manager playing bridge and drove home to do a few errands and have a rest.
One of the errands was to buy some shrimp for dinner, which went well with a salad (including avocado!). Almost healthy. Even berries for dessert. By the way, I like raspberries more than blackberries.
Now, most people that see me say that I am looking good. I am hoping that to them I am looking good as opposed to how they feared I would look Of course, the other possibility is that I am looking good as opposed to how I used to look.
On that score, I am confused because others are suggesting that I consider wearing a mask. I haven't worn a mask since I played cowboys and Indians with Steve Norman when I was 10.
Of course, the suggestion is made for health reasons so that I won't get exposed to germs when I am in public. Probably worth it, particularly as I go deeper into the chemo process.
Sunday, April 30, 2017
Saturday, April 29, 2017
A Good Day
Today was a good day in terms of lasting a long time. I was out of the house about 8:45 am and did not get home till about 5. Mind you, I slept 3 hours when I got home.
I attended an inspiring Celebration of Life service this afternoon. It was good to hear of the impact of one person on so many.
The obituary was very well written and a true reflection of Lee's life.
In the morning, someone commented on the obituary and indicated that they had just recently written their own obituary.
Not that it will be needed for at least another 18 years or more, I began to wonder what I would write.
I was reminded of a trip I took through Detroit when within three miles, three different hamburger stands advertised that they had the best hamburgers in the City, State and America, respectively.
How to start..........."Greatest resident in the state", "Best person in the world", "Most incredible alien in the universe"?
Fortunately, I will not have to figure this out for a while. Today, I was told of someone that had suggested that all you need to do to beat cancer was to avoid white sugar. With brown sugar, fructose corn syrup and other alternatives, avoiding white sugar should be easy and "poof" cancer will be gone!
I attended an inspiring Celebration of Life service this afternoon. It was good to hear of the impact of one person on so many.
The obituary was very well written and a true reflection of Lee's life.
In the morning, someone commented on the obituary and indicated that they had just recently written their own obituary.
Not that it will be needed for at least another 18 years or more, I began to wonder what I would write.
I was reminded of a trip I took through Detroit when within three miles, three different hamburger stands advertised that they had the best hamburgers in the City, State and America, respectively.
How to start..........."Greatest resident in the state", "Best person in the world", "Most incredible alien in the universe"?
Fortunately, I will not have to figure this out for a while. Today, I was told of someone that had suggested that all you need to do to beat cancer was to avoid white sugar. With brown sugar, fructose corn syrup and other alternatives, avoiding white sugar should be easy and "poof" cancer will be gone!
Friday, April 28, 2017
Food Labels
Today, I learned about food labels. Pay attention. You might learn something.
We began the day slowly and deliberately. We made it to the club to help get a tournament started and was grateful for the help that a few kind souls provided.
We left after the morning game got started, did a few errands and went home for some glorious sleep. I awoke in time to go out for dinner. We then came home for a little more rest.
Now what does this have to do food labeling?
First, to save time this morning, the research manager created a smoothie. It was good, but a little gritty and we are still dealing with the cold issue, so the smoothie was not really cold. What I learned, however, is that it contained Almond Milk, which apparently is not milk. Talk about poor labeling!
On the other hand, I learned that Ruby Tuesday labels products accurately. The research manager told me to take an arti"choke" heart. She did not tell me that she had a gag reflex when she ate hers and guess what happened when I tried mine. You got it. I blame it on the artichoke, not the chemo, and I had to admit that the labeling was spot on.
Now, for the really important news. We have been checking out fish spreads and have learned that most spreads are smoked. Some even have "liquid smoke."
The research manager said that if it says "Liquid Smoke" on the label, I should throw the item out. I am going to sneak a permanent marker home from the club and write :Liquid Smoke" on the labels of all the food that I do not like, thus enabling me to comply with the research manager's edict and at the same time to rid the fridge of certain items!
I felt pretty good this morning and am trending better tonight.
We began the day slowly and deliberately. We made it to the club to help get a tournament started and was grateful for the help that a few kind souls provided.
We left after the morning game got started, did a few errands and went home for some glorious sleep. I awoke in time to go out for dinner. We then came home for a little more rest.
Now what does this have to do food labeling?
First, to save time this morning, the research manager created a smoothie. It was good, but a little gritty and we are still dealing with the cold issue, so the smoothie was not really cold. What I learned, however, is that it contained Almond Milk, which apparently is not milk. Talk about poor labeling!
On the other hand, I learned that Ruby Tuesday labels products accurately. The research manager told me to take an arti"choke" heart. She did not tell me that she had a gag reflex when she ate hers and guess what happened when I tried mine. You got it. I blame it on the artichoke, not the chemo, and I had to admit that the labeling was spot on.
Now, for the really important news. We have been checking out fish spreads and have learned that most spreads are smoked. Some even have "liquid smoke."
The research manager said that if it says "Liquid Smoke" on the label, I should throw the item out. I am going to sneak a permanent marker home from the club and write :Liquid Smoke" on the labels of all the food that I do not like, thus enabling me to comply with the research manager's edict and at the same time to rid the fridge of certain items!
I felt pretty good this morning and am trending better tonight.
Thursday, April 27, 2017
A Real Boost
Not much to talk about today. They say that the third day is the toughest and they were right. This has been my toughest day so far.
Really sleepy. Not hungry. High sensitivity to cold.
Thank goodness that the research manager's new phone gave her an early morning message about backing up the phone which sent her to the computer. By the time she had sorted that out, I was sprawled across the bed with Bob comfortably sleeping. The result? More sleep for me and more research on probiotics for her.
After dragging around for the morning, we headed out to do a few chores and then up to drop Bob off.
I went in by myself and Julie looked after the separation.
She asked how I was doing.
Really tired. "Normal," she said.
Real sensitivity to cold. "Normal," she said.
No real desire to eat. "Normal," she said.
And then to further boost my spirits, she said that the longer we go, the more pronounced these things become.
Thanks, Julie!
On the plus side, when I asked what to do about not wanting to eat, she said that many people drink Boost. She said they had samples. She went and got one and sent me home with a real Boost..
Really sleepy. Not hungry. High sensitivity to cold.
Thank goodness that the research manager's new phone gave her an early morning message about backing up the phone which sent her to the computer. By the time she had sorted that out, I was sprawled across the bed with Bob comfortably sleeping. The result? More sleep for me and more research on probiotics for her.
After dragging around for the morning, we headed out to do a few chores and then up to drop Bob off.
I went in by myself and Julie looked after the separation.
She asked how I was doing.
Really tired. "Normal," she said.
Real sensitivity to cold. "Normal," she said.
No real desire to eat. "Normal," she said.
And then to further boost my spirits, she said that the longer we go, the more pronounced these things become.
Thanks, Julie!
On the plus side, when I asked what to do about not wanting to eat, she said that many people drink Boost. She said they had samples. She went and got one and sent me home with a real Boost..
Wednesday, April 26, 2017
Talk About Side Effects
Today I have experienced two side effects from the chemo.
When I was up and moving today, I felt pretty good, but after being up for any period of time, I slept an equal amount of time. Up for a 9:00 am meeting for an hour - sleep for an hour. Up for 4-5 hours to help run the game this afternoon - sleep for 4 or 5 hours.
And so here I am writing this note later in the evening.
The other side effect is an extreme sensitivity to cold. The worst incident occurred while shopping. I reached into a cool bin to pick up some well cooled cheese and my hand started screaming, well hurting significantly. Since I had other cold items to buy, I was happy to see the research manager happen along to help.
We had only a small amount of time to eat before the 9:00 meeting and so I elected for some yoghurt. The only problem was that it was cold. The research manager solved the problem by warming it up in hot water.
Have you ever eaten lukewarm yoghurt? Revelations 3:16 may have been talking about yoghurt when it says in part, "Because you are lukewarm, I am about to spit you out of my mouth."
The truth is that I did not feel like eating much today at all.
I figured out that the best way to carry Bob was to put him in my pocket. The only problem was that when I was squeezing by some tables at the club, Bob started hitting on some of the ladies (well, hitting their chairs.) I will have to send him back to the clinic tomorrow for behavior training.
And now, back to sleep.
When I was up and moving today, I felt pretty good, but after being up for any period of time, I slept an equal amount of time. Up for a 9:00 am meeting for an hour - sleep for an hour. Up for 4-5 hours to help run the game this afternoon - sleep for 4 or 5 hours.
And so here I am writing this note later in the evening.
The other side effect is an extreme sensitivity to cold. The worst incident occurred while shopping. I reached into a cool bin to pick up some well cooled cheese and my hand started screaming, well hurting significantly. Since I had other cold items to buy, I was happy to see the research manager happen along to help.
We had only a small amount of time to eat before the 9:00 meeting and so I elected for some yoghurt. The only problem was that it was cold. The research manager solved the problem by warming it up in hot water.
Have you ever eaten lukewarm yoghurt? Revelations 3:16 may have been talking about yoghurt when it says in part, "Because you are lukewarm, I am about to spit you out of my mouth."
The truth is that I did not feel like eating much today at all.
I figured out that the best way to carry Bob was to put him in my pocket. The only problem was that when I was squeezing by some tables at the club, Bob started hitting on some of the ladies (well, hitting their chairs.) I will have to send him back to the clinic tomorrow for behavior training.
And now, back to sleep.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
Second Chemo Treatment
Today was the beginning of my second chemo treatment. It was a largely uneventful day. Every thing went smoothly. My blood counts were all good.
I was given a few magazines to "read" during my chemo time, including one for the research manager (It was Men's Health if you have ever seen the cover pictures). The other two had more words than pictures. When I was a kid, I liked picture books and now I like picture magazines if you get my drift.
On the way to treatment, we discussed getting a second opinion, which many with prior experience have recommended. We may do that later, but for now, I am happy. The last time that I asked the doctor if I could have a second opinion was when he was treating an ear ache. When I asked about a second opinion, he said "Sure. I think your hair is too long and rather unkempt, also." I think you can understand my hesitation.
At bridge tonight, I signaled the research manager that one of the players had information on probiotics which she has been researching. She was given a number of Acidophilus capsules. The initial recommendation was 4 capsules and that I should take them around the clock. I got the old clock off the mantel and stood in front of it while I swallowed 4 pills with my Chaga Mushroom Tea.
It seems to me that this is a "timely" find.
Speaking of time.......it is time for bed. Cash Cab is starting.
I was given a few magazines to "read" during my chemo time, including one for the research manager (It was Men's Health if you have ever seen the cover pictures). The other two had more words than pictures. When I was a kid, I liked picture books and now I like picture magazines if you get my drift.
On the way to treatment, we discussed getting a second opinion, which many with prior experience have recommended. We may do that later, but for now, I am happy. The last time that I asked the doctor if I could have a second opinion was when he was treating an ear ache. When I asked about a second opinion, he said "Sure. I think your hair is too long and rather unkempt, also." I think you can understand my hesitation.
At bridge tonight, I signaled the research manager that one of the players had information on probiotics which she has been researching. She was given a number of Acidophilus capsules. The initial recommendation was 4 capsules and that I should take them around the clock. I got the old clock off the mantel and stood in front of it while I swallowed 4 pills with my Chaga Mushroom Tea.
It seems to me that this is a "timely" find.
Speaking of time.......it is time for bed. Cash Cab is starting.
Monday, April 24, 2017
Avocado
I felt really good today.
Tennis went decently ending in a 5-5 tie, but we had the momentum when we stopped!
I learned something today. Did you know that avocado is a fruit? Apparently it is.
I have spent my life thinking that avocado was a color of appliances back in the early 70's, but today I learned that it is also a fruit. Who knew? I understand that I will be trying it soon.
The reason for trying it is that avocado is the wonder food of all wonder foods. It can lower your cholesterol, reduce inflammation, build up your immune system, fight cancer and could be a factor in eliminating war and creating world peace. If congressmen ate avocadoes, their approval rating would be higher. Mind you, if congress did anything, their approval rating would be higher.
One personal note. Today I received sad news about a friend and good news from another friend. Life is special and friends make it so.
I have been getting questions about some of the dietary stuff that creeps into this blog. The research manager is delighted to share information and, sometime, even I can answer the question. Heck, now I know what an avocado is.
We are going to the pound to pick up Bob tomorrow. I need to remember his leash.
Tennis went decently ending in a 5-5 tie, but we had the momentum when we stopped!
I learned something today. Did you know that avocado is a fruit? Apparently it is.
I have spent my life thinking that avocado was a color of appliances back in the early 70's, but today I learned that it is also a fruit. Who knew? I understand that I will be trying it soon.
The reason for trying it is that avocado is the wonder food of all wonder foods. It can lower your cholesterol, reduce inflammation, build up your immune system, fight cancer and could be a factor in eliminating war and creating world peace. If congressmen ate avocadoes, their approval rating would be higher. Mind you, if congress did anything, their approval rating would be higher.
One personal note. Today I received sad news about a friend and good news from another friend. Life is special and friends make it so.
I have been getting questions about some of the dietary stuff that creeps into this blog. The research manager is delighted to share information and, sometime, even I can answer the question. Heck, now I know what an avocado is.
We are going to the pound to pick up Bob tomorrow. I need to remember his leash.
Sunday, April 23, 2017
Lazy Sunday Reflections
I "slept" in till 9:00 this morning. The research manager noted that my sleep had been interrupted only twice between 11 pm and 7:00 when I first woke. It was actually three times but that is good in that she slept through one of the interruptions and she needs the sleep as much as I do. (The benefit of extra rest showed in our bridge game in the afternoon.)
I realize that I am moving at a more relaxed pace. I got up and looked at what I needed to do before 11:30 when we had to leave. Imagine cooking fried eggs, grilled tomatoes with cheese and microwave bacon. Eating the breakfast. Then a bath and applying different ointments/lotions, taking various pills and drinking chaga mushroom tea. Doesn't seem like much, but when the research manager asked if I wanted to make and take one of our new smoothies to the club, I declined. Too much effort, too little time!
I also realized that I am losing my voice. The research manager says that it is a side effect of Avastin, which is part of the chemo protocol, but I suspect she has concocted something that has caused it to keep me from yelling at her about new diet ideas.
I was resting/sleeping after we got home about 5:45 when suddenly I realized that "60 Minutes" was on and that Michael Bloomberg was being interviewed.
I heard him talking about the charitable works of the very rich and mentioned that the Koch brothers donate a lot to cancer care and research. He said, "When you get cancer, you can thank the Kochs."
Would you believe that a few minutes later the research manager came in to say that she had been researching the causal relationship between sugar and cancer. She said, "When you get cancer, you can thank the Cokes."
I continue to receive very nice emails. They are touching and appreciated. Thanks.
Saturday, April 22, 2017
The media got it wrong
I could have written this blog at 10:30 this morning. Sure, I heard an osprey squeal about 3:00 pm. Yes, I ate some grapes at 4:00. Yes, I cooked dinner. Yes, I slept. But that is about it for excitement after 10:30.
Before then, however, there were two exciting non-action packed events.
The media might have published reports indicating that I was opposed to Chaga Mushroom Tea. Well, as of today, I not only drink it, but I brewed a 3 quart batch all by myself! How did that come to be?
We brew it in a slow cooker since the temperature cannot go to boiling. When the research manager went to make it this morning, she forgot to put the stoneware insert in place and, as a result, the water ended up running all over the counter and into the drawers. At that point, after she cleaned up all the water while I was at tennis, you can choose what happened next:
1. I banned her from the kitchen and brewed the tea.
2. She got a call to go play bridge with Andy, leaving me to brew the tea if we were going to have any tonight.
3. She threw the chaga chunks on my desk and said "You make the darn ( or some equivalent thereof) tea!"
Speaking about tennis, I lost 6-3 this morning. The media was having a field day debunking my side effect theory. They sobered up, however, when in the post game interview, I pointed out that the result was not surprising since one of the opponents was Dudley ( a fellow colon cancer guy) who has had more sessions of Chemo than me..
Hopefully, tomorrow will be more exciting as I see a few of you nodding off in boredom.
Before then, however, there were two exciting non-action packed events.
The media might have published reports indicating that I was opposed to Chaga Mushroom Tea. Well, as of today, I not only drink it, but I brewed a 3 quart batch all by myself! How did that come to be?
We brew it in a slow cooker since the temperature cannot go to boiling. When the research manager went to make it this morning, she forgot to put the stoneware insert in place and, as a result, the water ended up running all over the counter and into the drawers. At that point, after she cleaned up all the water while I was at tennis, you can choose what happened next:
1. I banned her from the kitchen and brewed the tea.
2. She got a call to go play bridge with Andy, leaving me to brew the tea if we were going to have any tonight.
3. She threw the chaga chunks on my desk and said "You make the darn ( or some equivalent thereof) tea!"
Speaking about tennis, I lost 6-3 this morning. The media was having a field day debunking my side effect theory. They sobered up, however, when in the post game interview, I pointed out that the result was not surprising since one of the opponents was Dudley ( a fellow colon cancer guy) who has had more sessions of Chemo than me..
Hopefully, tomorrow will be more exciting as I see a few of you nodding off in boredom.
My philosophy about healing
May I take a few minutes to share something serious with you?
I feel compelled to tell you my philosophy with regard to healing.
A long time ago, I read a book called "The Cancer Conquerer." I still have the book and could go back and review it, but the message that resounded with me was the importance of being positive. When I put Lamisil on my Athletes Foot, I expect it to work. When I go through chemo treatment for cancer, I expect it to work. When I drink Chaga Mushroom Tea, I expect it will help.
I believe that my ability to blog about my journey and to bring humor to the situation reflects that fundamental positive approach. It is not trumped up. I am totally confident that the cancer will be beaten.
I recently was given a book outlining nine things that can facilitate healing beyond the traditional treatments. It is called "Radical Remission."
Let me say first that I have full confidence in my treatments with Dr. Patel. However, some of these other approaches can help and certainly will not hurt.
1. Radically Changing Your Diet - I am comfortable with much of this. Chaga Mushroom Tea, Vitamin D3, Vitamin C, Turmeric, Selenium, vegetables and fruit are all good. I also understand the importance of cutting out sugar and processed food. I don't think that is radical. It is common sense.
2. Taking Control of Your Health - This means doing what you think is right whether your doctor agrees or not. I don't see any conflict here.
3. Following your Intuition - I think that is what I am doing
4. Using Herbs and Supplements - OK, as long as we don't get too extreme
5. Releasing Suppressed Emotions - I tend to think I am pretty relaxed about things, but I can identify stress points. The recommendation is to journal/track your emotions and consider seeing a "healer" or therapist. This is worth consideration.
6. Increasing Positive Emotions - This goes beyond what I talked about earlier. Greeting each day happily, enjoying life. I think I am there.
7. Embracing Social Support - Amen - you guys are great. Great emails, great hugs, great comments, wonderful caring, great gifts great research. Thanks.
8. Deepening Your Spiritual Connection - Again, I say, Amen.
9. Having Strong Reasons for Living - My Life's work is not finished. Heck, I now have a new writing career according to many of you. And there are others, not the least of which is the Research Manager. Wimbledon? US Open? Vanderbilt (bridge).
I don't think that any of this is Radical, but I know that it will add up to Remission.
Thanks for listening.
I feel compelled to tell you my philosophy with regard to healing.
A long time ago, I read a book called "The Cancer Conquerer." I still have the book and could go back and review it, but the message that resounded with me was the importance of being positive. When I put Lamisil on my Athletes Foot, I expect it to work. When I go through chemo treatment for cancer, I expect it to work. When I drink Chaga Mushroom Tea, I expect it will help.
I believe that my ability to blog about my journey and to bring humor to the situation reflects that fundamental positive approach. It is not trumped up. I am totally confident that the cancer will be beaten.
I recently was given a book outlining nine things that can facilitate healing beyond the traditional treatments. It is called "Radical Remission."
Let me say first that I have full confidence in my treatments with Dr. Patel. However, some of these other approaches can help and certainly will not hurt.
1. Radically Changing Your Diet - I am comfortable with much of this. Chaga Mushroom Tea, Vitamin D3, Vitamin C, Turmeric, Selenium, vegetables and fruit are all good. I also understand the importance of cutting out sugar and processed food. I don't think that is radical. It is common sense.
2. Taking Control of Your Health - This means doing what you think is right whether your doctor agrees or not. I don't see any conflict here.
3. Following your Intuition - I think that is what I am doing
4. Using Herbs and Supplements - OK, as long as we don't get too extreme
5. Releasing Suppressed Emotions - I tend to think I am pretty relaxed about things, but I can identify stress points. The recommendation is to journal/track your emotions and consider seeing a "healer" or therapist. This is worth consideration.
6. Increasing Positive Emotions - This goes beyond what I talked about earlier. Greeting each day happily, enjoying life. I think I am there.
7. Embracing Social Support - Amen - you guys are great. Great emails, great hugs, great comments, wonderful caring, great gifts great research. Thanks.
8. Deepening Your Spiritual Connection - Again, I say, Amen.
9. Having Strong Reasons for Living - My Life's work is not finished. Heck, I now have a new writing career according to many of you. And there are others, not the least of which is the Research Manager. Wimbledon? US Open? Vanderbilt (bridge).
I don't think that any of this is Radical, but I know that it will add up to Remission.
Thanks for listening.
Friday, April 21, 2017
A new house?
It was a quiet day.
Tennis did nothing to dispel my playing better side effect theory.
Regretfully, the same cannot be said of bridge. I was told "it is only a game" a few times this afternoon. Those were people that finished in the top three!
I was also told that I looked good, had lost weight and was doing well. Maybe the stress test technician was kidding when he said that he wasn't a magician.
For dinner, we went to Ruby Tuesday and I was really lucky. I am on the agree side of "Smart men make passes at girls that wear glasses" and our waitress had cute glasses! Yes......the research manager also wears glasses.
But more significantly, they had a salad bar with "Over 55" selections. Since we are over 55, we qualified. I am not sure what younger people do. Maybe that is why they go to bars.
I got home just in time for the daily Battle of the Bowels. These battles really tire me out. The research manager ran out to the store and came back with ointment to help as well as a few other items, including non-alcoholic mouth rinse since apparently soon I will not be able to use regular mouthwash.
I heard the other day about a 12,000 square foot house that just sold. Too bad. Given the growing quantities of medications, vitamins, supplements and food that are piling up, we are going to need more space and that would have done perfectly.
Tennis did nothing to dispel my playing better side effect theory.
Regretfully, the same cannot be said of bridge. I was told "it is only a game" a few times this afternoon. Those were people that finished in the top three!
I was also told that I looked good, had lost weight and was doing well. Maybe the stress test technician was kidding when he said that he wasn't a magician.
For dinner, we went to Ruby Tuesday and I was really lucky. I am on the agree side of "Smart men make passes at girls that wear glasses" and our waitress had cute glasses! Yes......the research manager also wears glasses.
But more significantly, they had a salad bar with "Over 55" selections. Since we are over 55, we qualified. I am not sure what younger people do. Maybe that is why they go to bars.
I got home just in time for the daily Battle of the Bowels. These battles really tire me out. The research manager ran out to the store and came back with ointment to help as well as a few other items, including non-alcoholic mouth rinse since apparently soon I will not be able to use regular mouthwash.
I heard the other day about a 12,000 square foot house that just sold. Too bad. Given the growing quantities of medications, vitamins, supplements and food that are piling up, we are going to need more space and that would have done perfectly.
Thursday, April 20, 2017
Chemo Brain
I blame Bill. He chose the wrong partner to play with in the first set of tennis this morning. The positive side effect that the chemo has had on my tennis was not present in that set (2-6). Faced with the possible debunking of my scientific study, I was forced to play a second set to either prove or disprove my observations. Thankfully, my observations were reinforced in the second set (6-1).
I came home tired and hungry, but happy. After a better than expected smoothie, it started. The battle of the bowels. The battle lasted through till about 3:00. At which time I fell asleep. The research manager blamed it all on my having played two sets of tennis.
People talk about chemo brain, in which patients say and do strange things. But I suspect that CCB is at work here (Chemo Caregiver Brain). This morning marked the third time in three days that I have had to remind the research manager about Chaga Mushroom Tea. It happened again tonight. I am sipping tea and she is playing with her computer and new phone.
More problems. The research manager got her hair cut and learned that our 65+ barber had just had a colonoscopy and was found to have the intestines of a 25 year old. She spent 30 minutes telling the research manager all of her dietary tricks. However, my point is that I want to ultimately have the intestines of an 85 year old!
So we have forgetting the Chaga Mushroom Tea, blaming anything bad on playing tennis and cavorting around learning more diet stuff. As if that was not enough, she told me to sit up rather than lie down on the bed while eating dinner. The nerve!
While I was eating, I asked her if she had gone to the post office. When she asked why, I told her that I was curious as to whether anyone had sent in a resume for the position of research manager. I think it went over her head or maybe she assumed that I had chemo brain.
I came home tired and hungry, but happy. After a better than expected smoothie, it started. The battle of the bowels. The battle lasted through till about 3:00. At which time I fell asleep. The research manager blamed it all on my having played two sets of tennis.
People talk about chemo brain, in which patients say and do strange things. But I suspect that CCB is at work here (Chemo Caregiver Brain). This morning marked the third time in three days that I have had to remind the research manager about Chaga Mushroom Tea. It happened again tonight. I am sipping tea and she is playing with her computer and new phone.
More problems. The research manager got her hair cut and learned that our 65+ barber had just had a colonoscopy and was found to have the intestines of a 25 year old. She spent 30 minutes telling the research manager all of her dietary tricks. However, my point is that I want to ultimately have the intestines of an 85 year old!
So we have forgetting the Chaga Mushroom Tea, blaming anything bad on playing tennis and cavorting around learning more diet stuff. As if that was not enough, she told me to sit up rather than lie down on the bed while eating dinner. The nerve!
While I was eating, I asked her if she had gone to the post office. When she asked why, I told her that I was curious as to whether anyone had sent in a resume for the position of research manager. I think it went over her head or maybe she assumed that I had chemo brain.
Wednesday, April 19, 2017
I appear to have discoverd the secret to a long life
I began the day feeling good, in no small part to being able to sleep most of the night. "Cash Cab" is a great way to wind down at 11:00 each week night on GSN.
The one negative for the morning is that the research manager managed to break her phone last night. (Another chemo side effect?). With her various responsibilities, not the least of which is me, not having a phone was devastating. Good news - she now has a new phone. Bad news - she has to do all the things involved in setting up a new phone. I asked her how she is able to deal with all the things going on (she has two serious Guardian cases) and she told me that she just pictured herself with a strong exo-skeleton and that all the swirling pieces just had to hang on to that skeleton. Thank God for a strong exo-skeleton!
I ran the game this afternoon and all went well.
Now, let me tell you about Manny. Manny worked in the office next to me when I was much younger. He was to all intents and purposes retired, but he had become the company raconteur.
He was in his 80's. When the subject of age came up, he always said, "At my age, I don't buy green bananas." I never knew Manny's medical history, but I would guess that he was a survivor of colon cancer.
Why do I guess this?
The average life expectancy of an American male is 76. In the past few days, including three times today, I have had people relate the stories of friends or relatives that have survived colon cancer and lived to their 80's or even their 90's.
It is therefore obvious to me that surviving colon cancer extends your life by at least 5 years!
I can live with that!
The one negative for the morning is that the research manager managed to break her phone last night. (Another chemo side effect?). With her various responsibilities, not the least of which is me, not having a phone was devastating. Good news - she now has a new phone. Bad news - she has to do all the things involved in setting up a new phone. I asked her how she is able to deal with all the things going on (she has two serious Guardian cases) and she told me that she just pictured herself with a strong exo-skeleton and that all the swirling pieces just had to hang on to that skeleton. Thank God for a strong exo-skeleton!
I ran the game this afternoon and all went well.
Now, let me tell you about Manny. Manny worked in the office next to me when I was much younger. He was to all intents and purposes retired, but he had become the company raconteur.
He was in his 80's. When the subject of age came up, he always said, "At my age, I don't buy green bananas." I never knew Manny's medical history, but I would guess that he was a survivor of colon cancer.
Why do I guess this?
The average life expectancy of an American male is 76. In the past few days, including three times today, I have had people relate the stories of friends or relatives that have survived colon cancer and lived to their 80's or even their 90's.
It is therefore obvious to me that surviving colon cancer extends your life by at least 5 years!
I can live with that!
Tuesday, April 18, 2017
A Weird Day
For a day that promised to be relatively uneventful, a few things happened that were rather unexpected.
I played tennis first thing. More about that under "Side Effects" below.
After breakfast, it was off to the oncologist for blood work. Everything was normal and the doctor seems pleased with my reaction to the first round. I got a prescription and will take it to Publix that will reduce the $7 pills to a mere $.70. Not bad, eh?
We also had a discussion with the doctor about diet. He did not seem too fussed. and suggested that I have a normal healthy balanced diet with things like vegetables and fruit. I guess his normal and mine differ slightly. There were points in my life when a balanced diet was a piece of cake in each hand!
I rested a while after getting home and managed to do a little work while the research manager finished her tax extension work. After mailing the tax stuff and doing a little shopping, things got weird.
Weird # 1. As we arrived home, we discovered one of our neighbors had fallen and literally could not get up. I and several neighbors were unsuccessful in resolving this, thus necessitating a call to 911. A good responsive team arrived and got the job done, but by then it was too late for dinner at home and so I took something to the club where I run a game on Tuesday evenings.
Weird # 2. I swear this is true. I got given a name tonight of a "highly certified Marijuana MD." Now, tell me, what makes you "high"ly qualified? I would presume it helps to have experience! Note: we are talking pills here.
Weird # 3. During the game tonight, one of the water fountains started spewing water. Thanks to many helpers and one in particular, we got the water stopped and a plumber arrived in time to advise that we needed to get the water all dried up and called a water restoration service. I suspect this is a side effect of the chemo.
Side Effects
We now know of some side effects of chemo that they don't tell you about:
1. Your tennis game may improve (we won 6-1 again this morning)
2. You will hurt your right toe
3. Water fountains may spring a leak
4. Neighbors may fall down helplessly
and
5. You may receive expressions of love, help and caring from many people. Thanks so much!
I played tennis first thing. More about that under "Side Effects" below.
After breakfast, it was off to the oncologist for blood work. Everything was normal and the doctor seems pleased with my reaction to the first round. I got a prescription and will take it to Publix that will reduce the $7 pills to a mere $.70. Not bad, eh?
We also had a discussion with the doctor about diet. He did not seem too fussed. and suggested that I have a normal healthy balanced diet with things like vegetables and fruit. I guess his normal and mine differ slightly. There were points in my life when a balanced diet was a piece of cake in each hand!
I rested a while after getting home and managed to do a little work while the research manager finished her tax extension work. After mailing the tax stuff and doing a little shopping, things got weird.
Weird # 1. As we arrived home, we discovered one of our neighbors had fallen and literally could not get up. I and several neighbors were unsuccessful in resolving this, thus necessitating a call to 911. A good responsive team arrived and got the job done, but by then it was too late for dinner at home and so I took something to the club where I run a game on Tuesday evenings.
Weird # 2. I swear this is true. I got given a name tonight of a "highly certified Marijuana MD." Now, tell me, what makes you "high"ly qualified? I would presume it helps to have experience! Note: we are talking pills here.
Weird # 3. During the game tonight, one of the water fountains started spewing water. Thanks to many helpers and one in particular, we got the water stopped and a plumber arrived in time to advise that we needed to get the water all dried up and called a water restoration service. I suspect this is a side effect of the chemo.
Side Effects
We now know of some side effects of chemo that they don't tell you about:
1. Your tennis game may improve (we won 6-1 again this morning)
2. You will hurt your right toe
3. Water fountains may spring a leak
4. Neighbors may fall down helplessly
and
5. You may receive expressions of love, help and caring from many people. Thanks so much!
Monday, April 17, 2017
Updates, Corrections
I may check in later, but since I will be gone till later this evening, I thought that I would give you a quick update mid afternoon.
I played tennis this morning (one set) and won again; this time 6-4, playing with Eddie who is 89! People will fear playing against me soon.
After a decent breakfast and bath, I rested a while, but I am finding being up and about feels better than lying there.
I need to correct one thing about Benita's broken wrist. As I understood it, she broke it on the tennis court. However, I found out today that she broke it in two places. I am not sure if the other place was at home or at that restaurant that does Irish dancing, where she broke her ankle last year.
There is a limited amount of discussion concerning my list of the women in my cancer life. First, let me say that I was wrong to list only women. I should have mentioned the odd guy that has offered help also. To protect his reputation, I will not mention his name.
My list was not meant to be in rank order, even though the research manager was at the top of the list. A lot depends on what is happening at the time. Ordering breakfast? The waitress ranks high. Prepping for a colonoscopy? Hello Nina! You get the drill.
In the event that I do not get back to you tonight, tomorrow is blood letting (er testing). The research manager, aided by outside consultants, has found out that I can get the nausea medicine at Publix for 10% of the cost at Walgreens and so I will have the pharmacy changed with the nurse practitioner. Also, I am getting diet advice fatigue and will ask to meet with the dietician.
I played tennis this morning (one set) and won again; this time 6-4, playing with Eddie who is 89! People will fear playing against me soon.
After a decent breakfast and bath, I rested a while, but I am finding being up and about feels better than lying there.
I need to correct one thing about Benita's broken wrist. As I understood it, she broke it on the tennis court. However, I found out today that she broke it in two places. I am not sure if the other place was at home or at that restaurant that does Irish dancing, where she broke her ankle last year.
There is a limited amount of discussion concerning my list of the women in my cancer life. First, let me say that I was wrong to list only women. I should have mentioned the odd guy that has offered help also. To protect his reputation, I will not mention his name.
My list was not meant to be in rank order, even though the research manager was at the top of the list. A lot depends on what is happening at the time. Ordering breakfast? The waitress ranks high. Prepping for a colonoscopy? Hello Nina! You get the drill.
In the event that I do not get back to you tonight, tomorrow is blood letting (er testing). The research manager, aided by outside consultants, has found out that I can get the nausea medicine at Publix for 10% of the cost at Walgreens and so I will have the pharmacy changed with the nurse practitioner. Also, I am getting diet advice fatigue and will ask to meet with the dietician.
Sunday, April 16, 2017
Stayin' Alive
This year we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the release of the Bee Gees' Saturday Night Fever soundtrack which includes Stayin' Alive.
Miraculously, that is the state of affairs today for me. I have now had two 1/2 cups of Chaga Mushroom Tea and I am still alive!
In truth, it is not that bad and, if it helps fight cancer, I am sort of all for it.
Today was a nice quiet day. I slept well and looked forward to breakfast with the Research Manager and her sons, Matt and Andy. We went to Metro Diner. It was busy but we got seated quickly. Andy presented me with a T-Shirt with "Straight Outa Chemo" on the back. I will save it for Dr. Patel's visit.
The only concern with the tea? I have had it two days and the Tampa Rays have lost both days. Stay tuned for more data on this. The fact that I slept through most of both games may have to be factored in.
I was thinking about the women in my new life. How would you rank them?
The Research Manager
My Email Friend with whom I share experiences about our cancer journeys
My massage therapist who made me sound better to those I talked to after the massage
The Nurse Practitioners
Nina Agdal
Those who have driven me or offered to do so
Those who have sent notes offering help, prayer and encouragement
Those that have taken on a duty at the club.
The many technicians who have had to listen to my jokes
The waitress who understood my need (well, desire) for "High Protein Cinnamon Nut French Toast" for breakfast.
I can figure out number 1, but I leave the rest to you.
Comments on this are welcome.
Miraculously, that is the state of affairs today for me. I have now had two 1/2 cups of Chaga Mushroom Tea and I am still alive!
In truth, it is not that bad and, if it helps fight cancer, I am sort of all for it.
Today was a nice quiet day. I slept well and looked forward to breakfast with the Research Manager and her sons, Matt and Andy. We went to Metro Diner. It was busy but we got seated quickly. Andy presented me with a T-Shirt with "Straight Outa Chemo" on the back. I will save it for Dr. Patel's visit.
The only concern with the tea? I have had it two days and the Tampa Rays have lost both days. Stay tuned for more data on this. The fact that I slept through most of both games may have to be factored in.
I was thinking about the women in my new life. How would you rank them?
The Research Manager
My Email Friend with whom I share experiences about our cancer journeys
My massage therapist who made me sound better to those I talked to after the massage
The Nurse Practitioners
Nina Agdal
Those who have driven me or offered to do so
Those who have sent notes offering help, prayer and encouragement
Those that have taken on a duty at the club.
The many technicians who have had to listen to my jokes
The waitress who understood my need (well, desire) for "High Protein Cinnamon Nut French Toast" for breakfast.
I can figure out number 1, but I leave the rest to you.
Comments on this are welcome.
Saturday, April 15, 2017
A few random thoughts
I woke up this morning intent on playing tennis. I was a little slow off the mark, but made it in time to play one set. (The limit set by the research manager) I wisely chose the best player to play with and managed to win the set 6-1. I actually managed to hit the ball a few times successfully.
I had tried to play yesterday also, but got there too late because Benita broke her wrist during the first set and had to be driven to the hospital. Makes me want to be careful moving on the court.
I note that IBB (The biotech index) was up $1.94 yesterday. This was obviously in the knowledge of my needs. In the last 24 hours, I have added Lamisil and Imodium - AD to my list of medications.
I am getting bonus research from outside sources. This will no doubt be integrated by the research manager into even more diet suggestions. Yet, half the time I don't have a very big appetite.
I am thinking of checking back into the hospital. This afternoon, I felt warm and asked the research manager to check my temperature. She held her wrist to my forehead and said that I did not have a temperature.
She then fished out a rectal thermometer which was not going to happen. I thought that was the end of it.
When I came out to pick up my grilled cheese sandwich, I was told that my temperature would have to be checked first, this time with an oral thermometer. The annoyance was put under my tongue and I was told to hold it there for 3 minutes! After two minutes, the research manager decided that she should have shaken it first, did so, and plunged it back under my tongue for another three minutes. No temperature! I would have accepted the "wrist" ometer reading.
At the hospital, all they have to do is swipe a device over your forehead and tell you the result. There may be other drawbacks at the hospital, but temperature taking is not one of them.
Another tired, not so hungry day, but I am feeling ok this evening.
I had tried to play yesterday also, but got there too late because Benita broke her wrist during the first set and had to be driven to the hospital. Makes me want to be careful moving on the court.
I note that IBB (The biotech index) was up $1.94 yesterday. This was obviously in the knowledge of my needs. In the last 24 hours, I have added Lamisil and Imodium - AD to my list of medications.
I am getting bonus research from outside sources. This will no doubt be integrated by the research manager into even more diet suggestions. Yet, half the time I don't have a very big appetite.
I am thinking of checking back into the hospital. This afternoon, I felt warm and asked the research manager to check my temperature. She held her wrist to my forehead and said that I did not have a temperature.
She then fished out a rectal thermometer which was not going to happen. I thought that was the end of it.
When I came out to pick up my grilled cheese sandwich, I was told that my temperature would have to be checked first, this time with an oral thermometer. The annoyance was put under my tongue and I was told to hold it there for 3 minutes! After two minutes, the research manager decided that she should have shaken it first, did so, and plunged it back under my tongue for another three minutes. No temperature! I would have accepted the "wrist" ometer reading.
At the hospital, all they have to do is swipe a device over your forehead and tell you the result. There may be other drawbacks at the hospital, but temperature taking is not one of them.
Another tired, not so hungry day, but I am feeling ok this evening.
Friday, April 14, 2017
Funny News, Bad News, Good News
Before we get to the headline news of the day. I am breaking an unspoken policy of this blog and including a picture.
I was very tired most of the day and spent much time looking like this:
O--<----<
Ok, here is the scoop.
The Funny News.
You may remember Sherry who administered my first chemo treatment. She asked me if I felt anything and the minute it started, I exclaimed "Ouch, my right toe!"
Sherry gave me a knowing smile and carried on.
The Bad News.
When I got home, I felt a strange feeling in two of the toes on my right foot. The research manager looked at the toes and after an appropriate time at her computer opined that it could be Athlete's Foot. I blame Sherry. She probably cast a spell on my foot.
After thinking about this for a day, I mustered up the energy to go to the local clinic this afternoon.
The Good News
I got to the clinic and was the only patient there. I checked in and was told that Elli would see me shortly........Could it be?.........Yes! Elli was the nurse practitioner I had met over a year ago.
So, you see......trying to be funny ultimately has its reward.
Now I can go to sleep dreaming happily!
zzzz :)--<----<
I was very tired most of the day and spent much time looking like this:
O--<----<
Ok, here is the scoop.
The Funny News.
You may remember Sherry who administered my first chemo treatment. She asked me if I felt anything and the minute it started, I exclaimed "Ouch, my right toe!"
Sherry gave me a knowing smile and carried on.
The Bad News.
When I got home, I felt a strange feeling in two of the toes on my right foot. The research manager looked at the toes and after an appropriate time at her computer opined that it could be Athlete's Foot. I blame Sherry. She probably cast a spell on my foot.
After thinking about this for a day, I mustered up the energy to go to the local clinic this afternoon.
The Good News
I got to the clinic and was the only patient there. I checked in and was told that Elli would see me shortly........Could it be?.........Yes! Elli was the nurse practitioner I had met over a year ago.
So, you see......trying to be funny ultimately has its reward.
Now I can go to sleep dreaming happily!
zzzz :)--<----<
Thursday, April 13, 2017
A surprisingly quiet day
Bob and I sent the research manager away on her Guardian work early this morning. Real early! That gave us a few hours of sleep that was much needed.
I received a treatise on lemon drops followed up by more research on the topic. It seems that they are likely useful for maintaining some taste. If I had known it was that easy to have taste, I would have started using lemon drops a long time ago. It might have prevented the purchase of those two shirts that the research manager refuses to let me wear.
I realized that Bob would become dehydrated earlier than when I was told to be at the clinic and so we left early and arrived just as Bob was pumping his last.
On the way, while stopped at a light, a bunch of school kids walked by and suddenly started waving. Thinking they were waving at me, I waved back. The research manager calmly pointed out that an "Icee" truck had pulled up beside us.
The removal of the pump took no time at all and was very simple. That gave us time for a quick lunch and a fast trip home for a shower.
After a rest/sleep, we went off to play bridge this evening. Not the greatest result, but it was fun to be there.
All in all, it was a good day. I am tired, but am not suffering from any other side effects.
See you tomorrow.
I received a treatise on lemon drops followed up by more research on the topic. It seems that they are likely useful for maintaining some taste. If I had known it was that easy to have taste, I would have started using lemon drops a long time ago. It might have prevented the purchase of those two shirts that the research manager refuses to let me wear.
I realized that Bob would become dehydrated earlier than when I was told to be at the clinic and so we left early and arrived just as Bob was pumping his last.
On the way, while stopped at a light, a bunch of school kids walked by and suddenly started waving. Thinking they were waving at me, I waved back. The research manager calmly pointed out that an "Icee" truck had pulled up beside us.
The removal of the pump took no time at all and was very simple. That gave us time for a quick lunch and a fast trip home for a shower.
After a rest/sleep, we went off to play bridge this evening. Not the greatest result, but it was fun to be there.
All in all, it was a good day. I am tired, but am not suffering from any other side effects.
See you tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
My day with Bob
I left you last night on my way to bed with the pump. I mentioned that it was about the size of Bob the therapy dog at the treatment center,
When I got to the bed, "Bob" jumped up on the bed and nestled in just like any good pet would. In addition, every 15 seconds, he makes a little sound (the pump functioning) that resembles the little "purr" that Shih Tzu's make frequently. And so, the pump is now officially called "Bob."
Bob and I survived the night and Bob faithfully got up and out of bed each time that I did.
But let me tell you.......Bob is a pain in the waist during the day. He hung around my waist all day and by the end of the day, I was glad to let him run outside of his coat. I was happy just to carry him. Don't tell him, but I will be glad to take him back to the clinic tomorrow afternoon.
I got a few things done on the way to the club today. My "just in case" anti-nausea pills ended up costing $7 a piece. It was enough to make me sick. It made me wonder how much Heather gets per pill for prescribing them. I am to take them if I even feel like I might become nauseous.
I arrived at the club to receive thoughtful things like a night light for Bob and me when we get up in the middle of the night and lemon drops to help me retain my taste buds. It seems that almost everyone has a personal experience with cancer, either themselves or a close relative or friend. It is just amazing how pervasive this disease is. Thanks to all for those who are willing to share.
After the game, I had dinner, preparatory to teaching this evening's class. The dinner cost just under $10 plus $7. Figure that one out!
I admit to being delighted that only one person showed up for the class and that I was able to go home earlier than first thought.
On the way home, I got a call from Andy offering whatever I could dream of both for Easter dinner and for the bridge world. He and Matt are being very thoughtful. Exactly what one would expect of the research manager's offspring.
Bob and I will go off to bed soon and try to make room for the research manager.
When I got to the bed, "Bob" jumped up on the bed and nestled in just like any good pet would. In addition, every 15 seconds, he makes a little sound (the pump functioning) that resembles the little "purr" that Shih Tzu's make frequently. And so, the pump is now officially called "Bob."
Bob and I survived the night and Bob faithfully got up and out of bed each time that I did.
But let me tell you.......Bob is a pain in the waist during the day. He hung around my waist all day and by the end of the day, I was glad to let him run outside of his coat. I was happy just to carry him. Don't tell him, but I will be glad to take him back to the clinic tomorrow afternoon.
I got a few things done on the way to the club today. My "just in case" anti-nausea pills ended up costing $7 a piece. It was enough to make me sick. It made me wonder how much Heather gets per pill for prescribing them. I am to take them if I even feel like I might become nauseous.
I arrived at the club to receive thoughtful things like a night light for Bob and me when we get up in the middle of the night and lemon drops to help me retain my taste buds. It seems that almost everyone has a personal experience with cancer, either themselves or a close relative or friend. It is just amazing how pervasive this disease is. Thanks to all for those who are willing to share.
After the game, I had dinner, preparatory to teaching this evening's class. The dinner cost just under $10 plus $7. Figure that one out!
I admit to being delighted that only one person showed up for the class and that I was able to go home earlier than first thought.
On the way home, I got a call from Andy offering whatever I could dream of both for Easter dinner and for the bridge world. He and Matt are being very thoughtful. Exactly what one would expect of the research manager's offspring.
Bob and I will go off to bed soon and try to make room for the research manager.
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
A good first day
Woke up this morning, food was on my mind.
Being a little lazy this morning, we were short on time before leaving for Dr. Erickson (to check the port) and then Dr. Patel to begin the chemo.
We had to not only make and consume breakfast, but also prepare food for the day in chemo. We had a wide variety of things to take ranging from soup (in a hot thermos), apple juice (in a cold thermos), peanut butter crackers, grapes and sulpher-free apricots.
Dr. Erickson said the port was perfect and so off we went to Dr. Patel. After the customary weigh in (down a few pounds) and blood tests, we met with the nurse practitioner, who confirmed my belief in that type of medicine! She was also very competent. She is giving me a prescription should I feel nausea. Apparently, though, many of the renowned side effects of chemo only appear after extended sessions, if at all. I also learned that I will go in on the "off" Tuesday for blood work. They monitor everything!
I then spent much of the day with Sherry, the veteran of the nursing staff. She was very competent and explained all that was going to happen. Over time, she put a number of different bags of fluid on the port IV stand. I asked if one of them was diet Pepsi and she said that I could think whatever I wanted.
Eventually, she went over countless papers and while I listened intently, all the papers went to my beautiful research manager. (Note the promotion) She showed me two on pain, but neither indicated a successful treatment for nagging research managers. (regretting the promotion already! Mushroom tea? Really? I just learned that the Chaga tea shipped today.)
The one unexpected factoid is that during the chemo (Including the 2 days on the pump), there is an extreme sensitivity to cold. Don't even think about opening the freezer. We went to the bridge club to run the game and I forgot about the cold thing and grabbed a cold bottle of water. When I put it to my lips, it helped me to remember!
All in all, a comfortable day, very relaxed and very effective. Thanks to all the staff who made it so.
Two nice things that have happened.
1. Several texted or emailed good wishes. Thanks.
2. I have been corresponding with Mary Jo Yates. It began with a very nice email from her and is growing into a helpful email relationship in which we can identify with each other's journey. She is wonderful to share her experience. Some time down the road, we will play a game of bridge together.
Tomorrow, no medical visits and I will spend some time at the club.
I have finished my evening Brazil nuts and 2000 IU's of vitamin D3 and so it is off to bed to figure out how to sleep with a 6"x4"x2" pump. That's almost as big as the Shih Tzu therapy dog, Bob, that I met today.
Being a little lazy this morning, we were short on time before leaving for Dr. Erickson (to check the port) and then Dr. Patel to begin the chemo.
We had to not only make and consume breakfast, but also prepare food for the day in chemo. We had a wide variety of things to take ranging from soup (in a hot thermos), apple juice (in a cold thermos), peanut butter crackers, grapes and sulpher-free apricots.
Dr. Erickson said the port was perfect and so off we went to Dr. Patel. After the customary weigh in (down a few pounds) and blood tests, we met with the nurse practitioner, who confirmed my belief in that type of medicine! She was also very competent. She is giving me a prescription should I feel nausea. Apparently, though, many of the renowned side effects of chemo only appear after extended sessions, if at all. I also learned that I will go in on the "off" Tuesday for blood work. They monitor everything!
I then spent much of the day with Sherry, the veteran of the nursing staff. She was very competent and explained all that was going to happen. Over time, she put a number of different bags of fluid on the port IV stand. I asked if one of them was diet Pepsi and she said that I could think whatever I wanted.
Eventually, she went over countless papers and while I listened intently, all the papers went to my beautiful research manager. (Note the promotion) She showed me two on pain, but neither indicated a successful treatment for nagging research managers. (regretting the promotion already! Mushroom tea? Really? I just learned that the Chaga tea shipped today.)
The one unexpected factoid is that during the chemo (Including the 2 days on the pump), there is an extreme sensitivity to cold. Don't even think about opening the freezer. We went to the bridge club to run the game and I forgot about the cold thing and grabbed a cold bottle of water. When I put it to my lips, it helped me to remember!
All in all, a comfortable day, very relaxed and very effective. Thanks to all the staff who made it so.
Two nice things that have happened.
1. Several texted or emailed good wishes. Thanks.
2. I have been corresponding with Mary Jo Yates. It began with a very nice email from her and is growing into a helpful email relationship in which we can identify with each other's journey. She is wonderful to share her experience. Some time down the road, we will play a game of bridge together.
Tomorrow, no medical visits and I will spend some time at the club.
I have finished my evening Brazil nuts and 2000 IU's of vitamin D3 and so it is off to bed to figure out how to sleep with a 6"x4"x2" pump. That's almost as big as the Shih Tzu therapy dog, Bob, that I met today.
Monday, April 10, 2017
Back to Normal
Boy, yesterday sure wiped me out. We did not leave Fort Lauderdale till almost 6 and got home just after 10. I think that dealing with "evacuation" issues is making me tired. In addition, I get up from sleep a few times each night. My research assistant claims that getting up twice within 45 minutes only counts as once!
But a decent sleep and a relaxed morning has everything back to normal.
We spent much of the last few days talking about diet and so I felt compelled to share what has come out of the discussion. Hence the rather pedestrian entry this morning.
This afternoon I went to have my heart follow up visit, this time at the Bardmoor office. I expected different staff, but was delighted when Allison came out to greet me. You may recall that I was her first.
I read her the entry on the blog that mentioned her and she was delighted.
She had to take my blood pressure and given how I was sitting and she was standing, she had me put my hand on her hip. I think that she was disappointed that the result was 120/80. So, she did it again but asked me to put my hand a little higher. (Tsk, Tsk. On her shoulder, silly) 130/80 was the result. She said that she would pray for me and did!
Next, I was to meet with the nurse practitioner.
Now let me tell you. A few years ago, I had a sore throat and went to the local medical clinic. The doctor prescribed something that did not work. I went back and this time was handled by the nurse practitioner. Her prescription worked much better, but either way, I was looking for an excuse to go back again. :)
So, today, the nurse practitioner was Jane. Tall, short skirt and 4 inch heels. I think that nurse practitioners are a good thing for medicine!
I found out that there is a slight build up in two arteries, but it is not serious. I will work on lowering my cholesterol over the next few months and see if I can get it down from 130 to 100, just to be safer.
I am on the way out to get a thermos for some warm soup for tomorrow for lunch. We will be also toting a number of other food items and entertainment devices for my 5 hour stint.
See you on the other side, again.
But a decent sleep and a relaxed morning has everything back to normal.
We spent much of the last few days talking about diet and so I felt compelled to share what has come out of the discussion. Hence the rather pedestrian entry this morning.
This afternoon I went to have my heart follow up visit, this time at the Bardmoor office. I expected different staff, but was delighted when Allison came out to greet me. You may recall that I was her first.
I read her the entry on the blog that mentioned her and she was delighted.
She had to take my blood pressure and given how I was sitting and she was standing, she had me put my hand on her hip. I think that she was disappointed that the result was 120/80. So, she did it again but asked me to put my hand a little higher. (Tsk, Tsk. On her shoulder, silly) 130/80 was the result. She said that she would pray for me and did!
Next, I was to meet with the nurse practitioner.
Now let me tell you. A few years ago, I had a sore throat and went to the local medical clinic. The doctor prescribed something that did not work. I went back and this time was handled by the nurse practitioner. Her prescription worked much better, but either way, I was looking for an excuse to go back again. :)
So, today, the nurse practitioner was Jane. Tall, short skirt and 4 inch heels. I think that nurse practitioners are a good thing for medicine!
I found out that there is a slight build up in two arteries, but it is not serious. I will work on lowering my cholesterol over the next few months and see if I can get it down from 130 to 100, just to be safer.
I am on the way out to get a thermos for some warm soup for tomorrow for lunch. We will be also toting a number of other food items and entertainment devices for my 5 hour stint.
See you on the other side, again.
Food and Vitamins
This is intended to be a list of things beyond treatment that people have told me may help in the cancer fighting process. Obviously, at this early stage, I cannot vouch for any of them.
I will keep updating this particular blog as more information becomes available. I do not intend to provide detailed research as to any of the entries here, but apparently much is available on the internet and you can email me at cfgill@verizon.net if you want me to speak to my research assistant as to where to find more information.
There are complete diets that you can find on the internet, but I am intending only to identify items that have specifically been recommended.
Please understand that I had not met many of these things until I got involved with this journey.
Here is the list so far:
5 or more servings of fruit and vegetables each day - probably doable. I was in Wawa the other day and was able to purchase a container of grapes as opposed to another snack.
Vegetables - In particular, cruciferous vegetables - broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts - I am
not as opposed to broccoli as "HW" was.
Fruit - In particular, fruit such as apricots, cantaloupe, watermelon
Vitamin D3 - up to about 5000 IU's a day - very doable. A good level of D (40 or higher) helps as a preventative and also as a treatment. Note: my D level was 21 last August.
Mushrooms of certain types - Shitake and Chaga (at least) - Chaga mushroom tea is apparently in my future
Selenium - Brazil nuts are a good source of this. - This is good. I used to eat at least one every Christmas as a child
Lots of liquids, particularly water. - We are going to order bottles to be delivered on a regular basis.
Lemon - obviously good in water
A good breakfast - Eggs, with Shitake mushrooms sounds good - also oatmeal
I am sure that there are more things to follow: I am full just thinking about food!
I will keep updating this particular blog as more information becomes available. I do not intend to provide detailed research as to any of the entries here, but apparently much is available on the internet and you can email me at cfgill@verizon.net if you want me to speak to my research assistant as to where to find more information.
There are complete diets that you can find on the internet, but I am intending only to identify items that have specifically been recommended.
Please understand that I had not met many of these things until I got involved with this journey.
Here is the list so far:
5 or more servings of fruit and vegetables each day - probably doable. I was in Wawa the other day and was able to purchase a container of grapes as opposed to another snack.
Vegetables - In particular, cruciferous vegetables - broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts - I am
not as opposed to broccoli as "HW" was.
Fruit - In particular, fruit such as apricots, cantaloupe, watermelon
Vitamin D3 - up to about 5000 IU's a day - very doable. A good level of D (40 or higher) helps as a preventative and also as a treatment. Note: my D level was 21 last August.
Mushrooms of certain types - Shitake and Chaga (at least) - Chaga mushroom tea is apparently in my future
Selenium - Brazil nuts are a good source of this. - This is good. I used to eat at least one every Christmas as a child
Lots of liquids, particularly water. - We are going to order bottles to be delivered on a regular basis.
Lemon - obviously good in water
A good breakfast - Eggs, with Shitake mushrooms sounds good - also oatmeal
I am sure that there are more things to follow: I am full just thinking about food!
Sunday, April 9, 2017
This blog is intentionally left blank
..............because it has been a long day and a blank blog will reflect what is in my head!
Look for exciting news about food in future blogs.
Look for exciting news about food in future blogs.
Saturday, April 8, 2017
I can't recommend it highly enough
I used to work with someone who would respond to requests for references for former employees with the phrase "I can't recommend them highly enough." It fit for both good and not so good employees.
Today, I took a four hour ride in the passenger seat of a Honda Odyssey. I want you to know that I cannot recommend it highly enough!
I have always found the seat uncomfortable and in my situation, it ended up being very uncomfortable indeed.
The only redeeming feature is that I have been feeling little annoying aches, in my wrist, a tweak in my upper back, a gurgle in my stomach. Such things make you wonder, but by the time I got to Fort Lauderdale, I felt none of them!
It was suggested that I lean the chair back, but that created the same feeling you get when you hop up on the doctor's table and you are told to lean back. You can't figure where your head should go as you kind of lean half way back. I know. I have done it a few times lately.
The end result is that we are in Fort Lauderdale tomorrow to play in the Swiss at the Coral Springs regional. It will be nice to play a little bridge. Who knows, it may make me forget about.................
that darn Honda Odyssey seat!
Today, I took a four hour ride in the passenger seat of a Honda Odyssey. I want you to know that I cannot recommend it highly enough!
I have always found the seat uncomfortable and in my situation, it ended up being very uncomfortable indeed.
The only redeeming feature is that I have been feeling little annoying aches, in my wrist, a tweak in my upper back, a gurgle in my stomach. Such things make you wonder, but by the time I got to Fort Lauderdale, I felt none of them!
It was suggested that I lean the chair back, but that created the same feeling you get when you hop up on the doctor's table and you are told to lean back. You can't figure where your head should go as you kind of lean half way back. I know. I have done it a few times lately.
The end result is that we are in Fort Lauderdale tomorrow to play in the Swiss at the Coral Springs regional. It will be nice to play a little bridge. Who knows, it may make me forget about.................
that darn Honda Odyssey seat!
Friday, April 7, 2017
Women
Today, I got a "Thank You" note from Gabrielle.
You may remember that she was mentioned on the day of my surgery for the port.
I remember back in 1976, when I had gall bladder surgery, that I fell in love with my nurse and wrote to the hospital about how wonderful she was. Apparently, it happens for many males while in the hospital.
And now, it has happened again. Gabrielle sent me a note! Hmmmm, I just noticed that a few other of the staff that looked after me that day signed the note also?
I have taken to wearing my tennis gear most of the time these days. They ask for loose clothing for many of the tests and procedures and, in addition, loose clothing is helpful when your digestive system is compromised.
So, when I visit an office, I am used to seeing up-tight women and men in loose clothing. When I go to the bar after the visit, I notice loose women in tight clothing!
My schedule was changed today. I got a call from the oncologist asking if I could change my appointment with him from Monday to Tuesday. Apparently, since I will be there for 5 hours on this first visit, they thought it best for me to come on Tuesday when there are a lot fewer people. They were looking at 40 patients on Monday with only 23 chairs. So someone would obviously be sitting on someone's lap.
When I heard that none of the women coming on Monday would be wearing tight clothing, I agreed to the change.
Meanwhile, the most wonderful woman in my life continues to do research and shopping on my behalf. I am very grateful. She will soon be teaching Patel and Erickson how to do their jobs.
Tonight, I am on the way to the baseball game with my son Graham. We are meeting my nephew Philip and his girlfriend Heather for the game. Since, Philip is a nurse, this will qualify as another day with a medical appointment. I expect that he will ask my birthdate and slap a paper bracelet on me!
You may remember that she was mentioned on the day of my surgery for the port.
I remember back in 1976, when I had gall bladder surgery, that I fell in love with my nurse and wrote to the hospital about how wonderful she was. Apparently, it happens for many males while in the hospital.
And now, it has happened again. Gabrielle sent me a note! Hmmmm, I just noticed that a few other of the staff that looked after me that day signed the note also?
I have taken to wearing my tennis gear most of the time these days. They ask for loose clothing for many of the tests and procedures and, in addition, loose clothing is helpful when your digestive system is compromised.
So, when I visit an office, I am used to seeing up-tight women and men in loose clothing. When I go to the bar after the visit, I notice loose women in tight clothing!
My schedule was changed today. I got a call from the oncologist asking if I could change my appointment with him from Monday to Tuesday. Apparently, since I will be there for 5 hours on this first visit, they thought it best for me to come on Tuesday when there are a lot fewer people. They were looking at 40 patients on Monday with only 23 chairs. So someone would obviously be sitting on someone's lap.
When I heard that none of the women coming on Monday would be wearing tight clothing, I agreed to the change.
Meanwhile, the most wonderful woman in my life continues to do research and shopping on my behalf. I am very grateful. She will soon be teaching Patel and Erickson how to do their jobs.
Tonight, I am on the way to the baseball game with my son Graham. We are meeting my nephew Philip and his girlfriend Heather for the game. Since, Philip is a nurse, this will qualify as another day with a medical appointment. I expect that he will ask my birthdate and slap a paper bracelet on me!
Thursday, April 6, 2017
Observations before, during and after a Pet Scan
I woke up this morning to rain. Somehow, that makes me feel better because I know that I am not missing out on tennis. :)
We had an early morning departure for my second visit to the Carlisle Imaging Clinic. We got there in good time and got checked in. The level of service for our AT&T phones was very low.
I then went in to begin the Pet Scan process. I had an injection of something into my blood and had to wait for an hour for the scan.
The wait was delightful in that I was able to watch my choice of TV channels in my own room but had zero, none, nada, rien for phone service.
This is interesting. Within the Morton Plant empire, there are places with excellent phone/wifi service and no television (or at best one channel). But Carlisle has the best choice of television, with no phone/wifi service.
The chemo place will take me back to one channel of TV, but wifi. I have gotten and am taking recommendations of youtube items to watch since I will take my tablet with me on Monday. (Remind me to charge it, would you?)
When we left Carlisle, at Dr. Patel's suggestion, I was able to take with me CD's of the two scans. Copies will be available at Best Buy or on Amazon if I can get the right deal!
Meanwhile, this diet thing is getting serious. I left the house this afternoon to suggestions of mushroom tea. I am thinking of creating a web site titled "The Best Food for Colon Cancer", give a fake Doctor's name and recommend fried food, cake, ice cream, soda and doughnuts as the best thing for Colon Cancer. I would not be lying......I think that some of those foods do help Colon Cancer to thrive!
Graham has arrived safely and tonight, we will enjoy Beauty and the Beast at the Cobb theater. I have chosen a seat on the aisle. Can you guess why?
Take care and keep smiling.
We had an early morning departure for my second visit to the Carlisle Imaging Clinic. We got there in good time and got checked in. The level of service for our AT&T phones was very low.
I then went in to begin the Pet Scan process. I had an injection of something into my blood and had to wait for an hour for the scan.
The wait was delightful in that I was able to watch my choice of TV channels in my own room but had zero, none, nada, rien for phone service.
This is interesting. Within the Morton Plant empire, there are places with excellent phone/wifi service and no television (or at best one channel). But Carlisle has the best choice of television, with no phone/wifi service.
The chemo place will take me back to one channel of TV, but wifi. I have gotten and am taking recommendations of youtube items to watch since I will take my tablet with me on Monday. (Remind me to charge it, would you?)
When we left Carlisle, at Dr. Patel's suggestion, I was able to take with me CD's of the two scans. Copies will be available at Best Buy or on Amazon if I can get the right deal!
Meanwhile, this diet thing is getting serious. I left the house this afternoon to suggestions of mushroom tea. I am thinking of creating a web site titled "The Best Food for Colon Cancer", give a fake Doctor's name and recommend fried food, cake, ice cream, soda and doughnuts as the best thing for Colon Cancer. I would not be lying......I think that some of those foods do help Colon Cancer to thrive!
Graham has arrived safely and tonight, we will enjoy Beauty and the Beast at the Cobb theater. I have chosen a seat on the aisle. Can you guess why?
Take care and keep smiling.
Wednesday, April 5, 2017
A Quiet Day
This is the first day in the last eight weekdays that I have not had a medical appointment.
I stopped by the tennis court this morning to say hi. As soon as I stepped on to the court, I had women begging to see my hairless chest. Well, it was one woman.
I said goodbye to Kate, who is on her way back to Ontario and then spoke with a few people experienced with the cancer routine.
I am surprised by how many people have travelled on a cancer journey. They all share encouraging words and helpful advice for which I am grateful.
I have also had many people indicate that they are praying for me. I am just not sure if the prayers relate to the cancer or in the hope that I will actually become a better guy in the future.
Finally, there are those that offer to do anything I need. This has created a logjam on the "hoping to drive Charlie" list. I can just see tennis players and bridge players battling for driving rights supremacy!
The curious thing is that those that offer to do anything to help tend to decline my request that they take the chemo for me.
With such a host of well wishers, I cannot but be buoyed up about this journey.
Thanks to all of you.
Pet Scan tomorrow morning. Restricted diet today and I survived it.
I stopped by the tennis court this morning to say hi. As soon as I stepped on to the court, I had women begging to see my hairless chest. Well, it was one woman.
I said goodbye to Kate, who is on her way back to Ontario and then spoke with a few people experienced with the cancer routine.
I am surprised by how many people have travelled on a cancer journey. They all share encouraging words and helpful advice for which I am grateful.
I have also had many people indicate that they are praying for me. I am just not sure if the prayers relate to the cancer or in the hope that I will actually become a better guy in the future.
Finally, there are those that offer to do anything I need. This has created a logjam on the "hoping to drive Charlie" list. I can just see tennis players and bridge players battling for driving rights supremacy!
The curious thing is that those that offer to do anything to help tend to decline my request that they take the chemo for me.
With such a host of well wishers, I cannot but be buoyed up about this journey.
Thanks to all of you.
Pet Scan tomorrow morning. Restricted diet today and I survived it.
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Getting Serious
One simple visit. One single hour. That is all it took to ramp up the program!
Dr. Patel is a very nice guy. His office staff are great. The medical staff are very competent.
Thank goodness. Apparently, we are going to spend a lot of time together ......soon!
I am now scheduled for a Pet Scan on Thursday morning early. So, on Thursday, I now have two reasons that I can't play tennis. (The Port and the Pet Scan)
A pet scan is apparently a bigger deal than a cat scan (all animals are scanned, not just cats!). And, it is.......they are scanning the whole body. The scanners may be disappointed. My reservation said that I was Female.
I will finish the pet scan late morning, just in time to pick up Graham (my youngest son for those that do not know him) to spend a few days together. I am also delighted that my nephew Philip and his girlfriend, Heather, will be joining us on Friday night when the Blue Jays will fall to the mighty Rays.
And then, we start chemotherapy on Monday at 10:45. Perfect......time to play tennis....(oh, yes, I will still be under the period of not playing due to my port ....so no tennis yet.) Hmmm, since my port is causing no pain, maybe I can get permission to play then. And then, maybe not.
My first visit will be about 5 hours. I will leave there with a pump that will continue the chemo until Wednesday morning. Allegedly, I will feel ok afterward and for the next day. One of the exciting things about this is that we will find out how I feel and when during this process. I predict that I will continue to feel "less hairy" than I did before all this started for at least a little while.
Chemo will be every two weeks. After 2 months, we will do another Pet Scan to see how things are progressing. Now that will be something to look forward too.
I got an email from someone yesterday that said she HATED my blog. It turns out that she hates that it means I have cancer. I can understand that. Not my first choice, But even my top research assistant said that she is beginning to realize the adventure that we are on.
It can't be all bad. As I write this, I am eating grapes rather than cake.
I may become a healthy specimen yet.
Dr. Patel is a very nice guy. His office staff are great. The medical staff are very competent.
Thank goodness. Apparently, we are going to spend a lot of time together ......soon!
I am now scheduled for a Pet Scan on Thursday morning early. So, on Thursday, I now have two reasons that I can't play tennis. (The Port and the Pet Scan)
A pet scan is apparently a bigger deal than a cat scan (all animals are scanned, not just cats!). And, it is.......they are scanning the whole body. The scanners may be disappointed. My reservation said that I was Female.
I will finish the pet scan late morning, just in time to pick up Graham (my youngest son for those that do not know him) to spend a few days together. I am also delighted that my nephew Philip and his girlfriend, Heather, will be joining us on Friday night when the Blue Jays will fall to the mighty Rays.
And then, we start chemotherapy on Monday at 10:45. Perfect......time to play tennis....(oh, yes, I will still be under the period of not playing due to my port ....so no tennis yet.) Hmmm, since my port is causing no pain, maybe I can get permission to play then. And then, maybe not.
My first visit will be about 5 hours. I will leave there with a pump that will continue the chemo until Wednesday morning. Allegedly, I will feel ok afterward and for the next day. One of the exciting things about this is that we will find out how I feel and when during this process. I predict that I will continue to feel "less hairy" than I did before all this started for at least a little while.
Chemo will be every two weeks. After 2 months, we will do another Pet Scan to see how things are progressing. Now that will be something to look forward too.
I got an email from someone yesterday that said she HATED my blog. It turns out that she hates that it means I have cancer. I can understand that. Not my first choice, But even my top research assistant said that she is beginning to realize the adventure that we are on.
It can't be all bad. As I write this, I am eating grapes rather than cake.
I may become a healthy specimen yet.
Monday, April 3, 2017
The other side
Well, I made it to the other side of surgery. Everything went very well. All the staff were very professional. Thank you to all, particularly Lucia, Shamus, Alvin and Gabrielle.
What did I learn today?
1. The fastest way to get to Morton Plant hospital is to drive there at 4:20 AM.
2. Lucia shaved off most of my chest hair and Alvin finished the job. When I suggested to Alvin that I would not be able to work for a few weeks at my Chippendale job, he was not so sure. He may be right. Every woman that has seen me without chest hair since I got home, thinks it looks good.
3. There may be a bias among the female staff at the hospital. When the aide driving my bed down to anesthesia bumped into a few walls, Peggy told me that the problem was that it was a "man" bed.
4. The first port was installed in a human in 1981. This fact comes from my wonderful research assistant who doubles as my wife.
5. The fastest way home from Morton Plant is to have Suzanne drive you home by a new (for me) route. The reasons? Lead foot and the fastest route! Thanks, Suzanne.
6. You are not allowed to play tennis for about a week after getting a port. I will drop by the court from time to time and then try a new form of exercise. I think it is called walking.
Tomorrow is the meeting with the oncologist, Dr. Patel. Patel is a common name in India apparently. But did you know that the name Gill is also found among the population that lives in India. Maybe we are cousins.
Back to bed soon. So far, no painkillers required!
What did I learn today?
1. The fastest way to get to Morton Plant hospital is to drive there at 4:20 AM.
2. Lucia shaved off most of my chest hair and Alvin finished the job. When I suggested to Alvin that I would not be able to work for a few weeks at my Chippendale job, he was not so sure. He may be right. Every woman that has seen me without chest hair since I got home, thinks it looks good.
3. There may be a bias among the female staff at the hospital. When the aide driving my bed down to anesthesia bumped into a few walls, Peggy told me that the problem was that it was a "man" bed.
4. The first port was installed in a human in 1981. This fact comes from my wonderful research assistant who doubles as my wife.
5. The fastest way home from Morton Plant is to have Suzanne drive you home by a new (for me) route. The reasons? Lead foot and the fastest route! Thanks, Suzanne.
6. You are not allowed to play tennis for about a week after getting a port. I will drop by the court from time to time and then try a new form of exercise. I think it is called walking.
Tomorrow is the meeting with the oncologist, Dr. Patel. Patel is a common name in India apparently. But did you know that the name Gill is also found among the population that lives in India. Maybe we are cousins.
Back to bed soon. So far, no painkillers required!
Sunday, April 2, 2017
Good Things
There are a few good things that come with going through this process.
One is that if you do poorly at bridge, people will assume it is because you are preoccupied.
The second is that so many people take the time to wish you well and offer to help/support you in any way they can.
I have a chance to call on that help tomorrow since I will need a ride home from the hospital after my port is installed. Thanks to Suzanne for offering to take a few hours of her time to drive up to Morton Plant and back. The surgery is a lot earlier than we had anticipated and Carol had committed herself for the morning.
However, I did screw up one thing yesterday, apparently.
My tennis friends know that I talk frequently of having lunches with Maria Sharapova who spends time in Bradenton. Maria is the one who convinced me to support the second amendment. (The right to bare arms!)
I may be imagining things, but it looks like there will be no future lunches with Maria. I have to presume that my reference to Nina yesterday could have created jealousy.
Oh well. I still have many friends.
I will see you on the other side.........of surgery.
One is that if you do poorly at bridge, people will assume it is because you are preoccupied.
The second is that so many people take the time to wish you well and offer to help/support you in any way they can.
I have a chance to call on that help tomorrow since I will need a ride home from the hospital after my port is installed. Thanks to Suzanne for offering to take a few hours of her time to drive up to Morton Plant and back. The surgery is a lot earlier than we had anticipated and Carol had committed herself for the morning.
However, I did screw up one thing yesterday, apparently.
My tennis friends know that I talk frequently of having lunches with Maria Sharapova who spends time in Bradenton. Maria is the one who convinced me to support the second amendment. (The right to bare arms!)
I may be imagining things, but it looks like there will be no future lunches with Maria. I have to presume that my reference to Nina yesterday could have created jealousy.
Oh well. I still have many friends.
I will see you on the other side.........of surgery.
Saturday, April 1, 2017
No Discounts
There are a lot of things that you think about on days that you are not rushing off to medical appointments.
For instance, when I was offered use of her wigs by someone at the club yesterday, I realized that I might temporarily lose my hair.
At the barber shop this morning, there was a bald guy in front of me. After he left, I asked the barber if there was a discount if I came in with no or little hair. Apparently there are no discounts and I will still have to pay the same amount each time I go.
In times like these, you inevitably end up in a discussion with your spouse about what will happen if one predeceases the other. Carol was sure that I would find a new relationship. I admitted that was likely true and that it would probably be with Nina Agdal.
Carol could not place Nina and I had to remind her that I had spent part of last Sunday with Nina and her friends from Sports Illustrated.
For instance, when I was offered use of her wigs by someone at the club yesterday, I realized that I might temporarily lose my hair.
At the barber shop this morning, there was a bald guy in front of me. After he left, I asked the barber if there was a discount if I came in with no or little hair. Apparently there are no discounts and I will still have to pay the same amount each time I go.
In times like these, you inevitably end up in a discussion with your spouse about what will happen if one predeceases the other. Carol was sure that I would find a new relationship. I admitted that was likely true and that it would probably be with Nina Agdal.
Carol could not place Nina and I had to remind her that I had spent part of last Sunday with Nina and her friends from Sports Illustrated.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)