The white count continues to climb to 1.0: It's another day closer to being out of neutropenia. Still no neutrophils yet (those are the germ-fighting white cells). The magic number of neutrophils is 500 -- that's when he gets to come home (providing everything else is OK). Doc suspects Vlad may go home as early as Wednesday. We're all accentuating the positive.
Vlad's mouth is still very sore. Excuse this vivid picture: There are at least 20 cancre sores on his lips alone. One can only imagine the inside. This should be history in days. He's being sustained by yogurt, soup, apple juice, cottage cheese, Jell-O and warm tea. He can't take his potassium pills (they're too big and he refuses to drink them in juice), so his nurse Clementine found him a banana, washed the peel good (neutropenia protocol), peeled it and cut it into pieces for him. It was not easy, but he got his potassium. It may be easier to add it to his saline next time.
He lost some more weight; total loss stands at 24 pounds.
He brightens up when folks visit. There weren't any visitors tonight, but he got a lot of phone calls.
My condition has been worsening again. I went back to the doctor today for more antibiotics. He fears possible walking-pneumonia and sent me for a chest X-ray. I don't think it's that bad. Since getting back from the doc's about 6 pm, I've been in bed with meds. I feel much better, but it's too soon to tell.
If I had a lot of money I'd build a huge, gilded monument to my mother who's been slaving in my house for days chasing dusty bunnies from hell and cooking soups and Jell-O for her son-in-law. While I run in and out. She's a rock that never wavers. Thank God for her.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Haircut
Vlad's white count is up to 900 today. Let's hope it's all uphill from here! His other vitals are very good, including blood sugar. His mouth is extremely painful. It's the one thing he can't get around. He got some new, more powerful creme for his mouth tonight.
I tried to trim Vlad's hair on Friday night, but it was a botched job to be sure. Liliya and Nailiya came by tonight and Liliya gave him a more professional looking do. He looks like an Army sergeant now.
Visitors here. Will finish up later if I'm not too tired.
I tried to trim Vlad's hair on Friday night, but it was a botched job to be sure. Liliya and Nailiya came by tonight and Liliya gave him a more professional looking do. He looks like an Army sergeant now.
Visitors here. Will finish up later if I'm not too tired.
Friday, March 28, 2008
No pain, no gain
Vlad's doing just fine. He's still having terrible mouth pain and pain in his arm from the relocated port, but he's responding normally to the chemo, which is to say he's miserable. His blood numbers are still down. He got another a blood transfusion today. He's also developed a rash over most of his body, but the doctor said it's not unusual and that they'll watch it, but it's nothing to get upset about. Vlad may start feeling better early next week. His numbers should improve and his hair should fall out. We hope he'll be able to come home by the end of next week, but we'll have to wait and see.
I'm sorry I haven't posted. A few of you called to make sure all was OK. I just got a case of exhaustion. I was at the hospital this morning, but stayed home in bed the rest of the day, totally conked out. And yesterday morning I slept rather than clean house. I hope to be better tomorrow morning.
Mom's staying until Vlad comes home. I tried to get her to go back to her life, but there's too much to do here. I'm worried about working full-time next week. I may be trying to do too much. We'll play it by ear.
Thank you for your prayers and calls and cards and e-mails.
I'm sorry I haven't posted. A few of you called to make sure all was OK. I just got a case of exhaustion. I was at the hospital this morning, but stayed home in bed the rest of the day, totally conked out. And yesterday morning I slept rather than clean house. I hope to be better tomorrow morning.
Mom's staying until Vlad comes home. I tried to get her to go back to her life, but there's too much to do here. I'm worried about working full-time next week. I may be trying to do too much. We'll play it by ear.
Thank you for your prayers and calls and cards and e-mails.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Today was smooth, like puree
Today's white count is still stable at 800. At some point they will give him some drugs to help boost that number. But today is not the day. The pain of his new line in his arm is killing him. Between that and his mouth, he's getting morphine every 4 hours.
Food still must be pureed and not spicy. Anything the least bit acidic won't work.
He was in pretty good spirits this evening. Sasha and Valiya came by with soup and the aforementioned chicken mush, which Vlad said was yummy. I took some potato soup and strawberry Jell-O that Mom made, both big hits, especially the Jell-O. Liliya brought some fish soup about 8:30 and he was too full to eat it. I brought it home and will take it back to the hospital tomorrow.
Phone calls I remember: Bill, Lana, John. Suzanne called last night; I failed to add that to the archive. Mom talked to my cousin Stevie in Dallas by phone today who has added Vlad's cause to her prayer chain. Thank you!
Mom and I are almost done with the master bedroom. I guess then it's on to the master bath. Then the office. I was hoping to send Mom back to Fort Worth Friday morning to let her get back to her life. But she is adamant she will be staying, probably until Vlad comes home. I think she's worried about me. Mother stuff.
Bill goes with Evan to a Boy Scout Jamboree this weekend and he'll be back here the following weekend. My sister, Suzanne, wants so badly to come down and help, but she's got her hands full with her girls in Fort Worth. And she's paying extra child care while Mom is here, plus Mom is often the cook, laundress and errand-runner, so Suz has a lot more on her plate. And that's helping, I keep telling her.
Food still must be pureed and not spicy. Anything the least bit acidic won't work.
He was in pretty good spirits this evening. Sasha and Valiya came by with soup and the aforementioned chicken mush, which Vlad said was yummy. I took some potato soup and strawberry Jell-O that Mom made, both big hits, especially the Jell-O. Liliya brought some fish soup about 8:30 and he was too full to eat it. I brought it home and will take it back to the hospital tomorrow.
Phone calls I remember: Bill, Lana, John. Suzanne called last night; I failed to add that to the archive. Mom talked to my cousin Stevie in Dallas by phone today who has added Vlad's cause to her prayer chain. Thank you!
Mom and I are almost done with the master bedroom. I guess then it's on to the master bath. Then the office. I was hoping to send Mom back to Fort Worth Friday morning to let her get back to her life. But she is adamant she will be staying, probably until Vlad comes home. I think she's worried about me. Mother stuff.
Bill goes with Evan to a Boy Scout Jamboree this weekend and he'll be back here the following weekend. My sister, Suzanne, wants so badly to come down and help, but she's got her hands full with her girls in Fort Worth. And she's paying extra child care while Mom is here, plus Mom is often the cook, laundress and errand-runner, so Suz has a lot more on her plate. And that's helping, I keep telling her.
Looking toward the clean finish line
Vlad got some morphine late morning and got a little nap in before it wore off. We called to get the Nurse Navigator Marcela in to see him. He was getting a little overwhelmed with things I couldn't answer: About the progress of the chemo, what's a good sign? what's a bad sign? is this normal? I think she helped a bit. Despite the pain and the complications, his progress is fairly routine by all accounts.
Mom made potato soup last night and Jell-o this morning for Vlad. Valiya came to help us clean this morning. She's so kind. She's making chicken & sour cream mush for him tonight. She and Sasha will visit. And maybe Lililya.
The dust has me completely stopped up, even though I'm on allergy medication and Benadryl. We're stopping for the day. I think one more day and it will be finished.
Mom made potato soup last night and Jell-o this morning for Vlad. Valiya came to help us clean this morning. She's so kind. She's making chicken & sour cream mush for him tonight. She and Sasha will visit. And maybe Lililya.
The dust has me completely stopped up, even though I'm on allergy medication and Benadryl. We're stopping for the day. I think one more day and it will be finished.
Miserable
Sorry for no post yesterday. Mom and cleaned all morning in the master bedroom. We took a bunch of stuff to Second Blessing and went to Phoenicia in search of goose pate for Vlad.
Went to see him in the afternoon and stayed till after 9. His mouth is extremely sore from the chemo drugs and he can only eat things that are mashed up. The pate sounded good to him. Last night they gave him some morphine for the pain. The new sleeping pill did not work for him. He'll get another new one tonight.
His white count was up to 800 this morning (Wednesday).
He got a new get-up for IVs Tuesday. It's in his upper right arm. It's extremely painful also. The port in his chest was a source of infection, so they removed it.
I officially lost my sense of humor Tuesday night. I'm working on it.
Went to see him in the afternoon and stayed till after 9. His mouth is extremely sore from the chemo drugs and he can only eat things that are mashed up. The pate sounded good to him. Last night they gave him some morphine for the pain. The new sleeping pill did not work for him. He'll get another new one tonight.
His white count was up to 800 this morning (Wednesday).
He got a new get-up for IVs Tuesday. It's in his upper right arm. It's extremely painful also. The port in his chest was a source of infection, so they removed it.
I officially lost my sense of humor Tuesday night. I'm working on it.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Down in the mouth
Long day. Vlad still running fever. It goes up. It goes down. It goes away. It comes back. Conlon says cultures show an infection and he thinks the port is the source. The plan is to get rid of this port. How to do this has changed during the day, but the latest plan is to take out the port and implant a new one on the other side of his chest. They're supposed to do it sometime in the morning. He gets platelets at 5 a.m. so his blood will clot better and they can do the minor port surgery.
His BP tonight was much lower, about 110/65. Blood sugar also is down. He's getting loaded up with antibiotics.
His mouth has become a big problem. The chemo causes all the tissues in the mouth to be very sore, including his lips. Eating is a problem, so he's moving to a soft diet. Mom made him some chicken and noodles today and we pulverized it in the food processor. Her homemade applesauce has sustained (and delighted) him for two days.
I've had a scratchy throat for a couple of days and have been wearing a mask. I believe it is allergy-related, but now it's turned into a little cough. So today I got some antibiotics and cough medicine from my GP. I should be non-contagious by tomorrow afternoon, if I ever was contagious to begin with.
Between the continuous handwashing and slathering of antibacterial goo, my hands have gone all red and dry. They need lotion about every 15 minutes. This is the side effect we loved ones endure. Small potatoes.
We had the air ducts cleaned at the house today. And the blower, which was pretty nasty. The crew leader was Simon. He saw our menorah and asked if I was Jewish. "My husband is," I said. Simon says he's Jewish and shows me he's wearing his yarmulke under his gimme hat. Turns out he's Georgian and his wife's family is from Ukraine. Small and weird world.
Still no news on the rat front. Suits me.
Funny story du jour: Vlad asked his nurse, Jane, to see about getting him a stronger sleeping pill. She warned him that the stronger pills make you really groggy in the morning. So Vlad says, "Well? I'm not driving." I thought she was going to pee in her pants laughing.
Phone calls I remember: John, Bill, Karina, Liliya, Valiya. Yesterday's phone calls I remember: Joseph from P, Suzanne, Lana.
Visiting: It's still not a great time to visit, but Vlad has his moments, so just call first to see if he's up for company (713-778-7073). Please use the antibacterial goo, and if you think you may have been exposed to any contagious germs please wear a mask. (Goo and masks available outside the door, Room 1013.) If you have any sniffles or a cough or a fever, etc., please do not visit until you're over it.
Phone calls: He has trouble talking because of the mouth pain. So please take that into consideration when chatting on the phone.
His BP tonight was much lower, about 110/65. Blood sugar also is down. He's getting loaded up with antibiotics.
His mouth has become a big problem. The chemo causes all the tissues in the mouth to be very sore, including his lips. Eating is a problem, so he's moving to a soft diet. Mom made him some chicken and noodles today and we pulverized it in the food processor. Her homemade applesauce has sustained (and delighted) him for two days.
I've had a scratchy throat for a couple of days and have been wearing a mask. I believe it is allergy-related, but now it's turned into a little cough. So today I got some antibiotics and cough medicine from my GP. I should be non-contagious by tomorrow afternoon, if I ever was contagious to begin with.
Between the continuous handwashing and slathering of antibacterial goo, my hands have gone all red and dry. They need lotion about every 15 minutes. This is the side effect we loved ones endure. Small potatoes.
We had the air ducts cleaned at the house today. And the blower, which was pretty nasty. The crew leader was Simon. He saw our menorah and asked if I was Jewish. "My husband is," I said. Simon says he's Jewish and shows me he's wearing his yarmulke under his gimme hat. Turns out he's Georgian and his wife's family is from Ukraine. Small and weird world.
Still no news on the rat front. Suits me.
Funny story du jour: Vlad asked his nurse, Jane, to see about getting him a stronger sleeping pill. She warned him that the stronger pills make you really groggy in the morning. So Vlad says, "Well? I'm not driving." I thought she was going to pee in her pants laughing.
Phone calls I remember: John, Bill, Karina, Liliya, Valiya. Yesterday's phone calls I remember: Joseph from P, Suzanne, Lana.
Visiting: It's still not a great time to visit, but Vlad has his moments, so just call first to see if he's up for company (713-778-7073). Please use the antibacterial goo, and if you think you may have been exposed to any contagious germs please wear a mask. (Goo and masks available outside the door, Room 1013.) If you have any sniffles or a cough or a fever, etc., please do not visit until you're over it.
Phone calls: He has trouble talking because of the mouth pain. So please take that into consideration when chatting on the phone.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
An Easter to forget
Tough day. Vlad's fever went up to 103. At present, it's back to normal. Blood cultures show it's a "neutropenic" fever, not an infection, so there's some good news.
I spent the day at the hospital. He seems to be calmer when I'm there. Bill came by before he had to leave. Alex stopped in before going back to school. Alex is still drinking smoothies, but is doing much better than I would be doing at this point. Mom held the fort at home.
Vlad's in for about two weeks of this misery, but we pray that on the other side of it he will be much better. Or at least stronger for the next round of chemo or whatever it will take.
Very tired, going to bed. ... Visiting is not so good now. Phone calls are fine.
I spent the day at the hospital. He seems to be calmer when I'm there. Bill came by before he had to leave. Alex stopped in before going back to school. Alex is still drinking smoothies, but is doing much better than I would be doing at this point. Mom held the fort at home.
Vlad's in for about two weeks of this misery, but we pray that on the other side of it he will be much better. Or at least stronger for the next round of chemo or whatever it will take.
Very tired, going to bed. ... Visiting is not so good now. Phone calls are fine.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Saturday report: Yucky day
Vlad is feeling the effects of the chemo. It was inevitable. He's feverish and just not feeling good. His white count was 500 this morning; a new low. His fever was 100.5 this afternoon and 99.5 tonight. But his BP and blood sugar are very good. The doctor thinks he may have a little virus, which is common.
He got a lot of tests today. Chest X-ray and blood tests. We suspect they're assessing him after one week. We'll talk to the doc on Monday about that.
Linda and Terry were there today. Was great to see them. They brought a fish hat/pen, sweets (with and without sugar), card games and more. We had a great visit. Alex also came by. He had a smoothie and was still a bit chipmunk-ish. Came back home for a shower and Mom, Bill and I went out for steak. Then we went to visit Vlad again. He had another blood transfusion tonight. He's getting a lot of antibiotics.
I've got a scratchy throat, which I think is the result of allergies, but I wore a mask today for the first time. I may be coming down with something.
At the house, "The Tully Work Camp," Bill hung new blinds in the kitchen, took out the blinds in the stairwell and hung my stained glass; and hung a painting over the fireplace. Mom and I sorted through more boxes of, well, crap. The Jeep is packed to the gills with stuff for Second Blessing.
I'm super tired and dingier than ever. Vlad is sicker. I have my family making sacrifices, which they are happy to do but let's face it, this is not the fun part. Anyway, this has to go down as the hardest day yet.
Sorry for the late post. Thank you all for being here in my virtual reality. It's comforting to know friends and family are reading along.
He got a lot of tests today. Chest X-ray and blood tests. We suspect they're assessing him after one week. We'll talk to the doc on Monday about that.
Linda and Terry were there today. Was great to see them. They brought a fish hat/pen, sweets (with and without sugar), card games and more. We had a great visit. Alex also came by. He had a smoothie and was still a bit chipmunk-ish. Came back home for a shower and Mom, Bill and I went out for steak. Then we went to visit Vlad again. He had another blood transfusion tonight. He's getting a lot of antibiotics.
I've got a scratchy throat, which I think is the result of allergies, but I wore a mask today for the first time. I may be coming down with something.
At the house, "The Tully Work Camp," Bill hung new blinds in the kitchen, took out the blinds in the stairwell and hung my stained glass; and hung a painting over the fireplace. Mom and I sorted through more boxes of, well, crap. The Jeep is packed to the gills with stuff for Second Blessing.
I'm super tired and dingier than ever. Vlad is sicker. I have my family making sacrifices, which they are happy to do but let's face it, this is not the fun part. Anyway, this has to go down as the hardest day yet.
Sorry for the late post. Thank you all for being here in my virtual reality. It's comforting to know friends and family are reading along.
Friday, March 21, 2008
The yays have it
Gary made it around lunchtime and finished in a few hours. The bill was less than I expected. Yay!
Vlad's fever is nonexistent this evening. Yay!
Bill's coming in to help us clean. Yay!
Ants have invaded the kitchen. Boo.
Vlad's fever is nonexistent this evening. Yay!
Bill's coming in to help us clean. Yay!
Ants have invaded the kitchen. Boo.
Sliding into side-effect-land
Vlad has a fever this morning, a couple of mouth sores and the big D (diarrhea), all common chemo side-effects. For me it's getting a little scarier. Normally-nothing germs are so dangerous now. His white count is back down to 700 today. He also had a bad night, but I'm hoping he'll get some good sleep today.
Conlon said he is doing well; he's the 1-in-10 leukemia/chemo patients who isn't slammed by the side-effects. At least so far. I finally worked up the guts to ask the prognosis question again. Conlon said Vlad has an "average" case of MLA. His chromosomes are normal, not deformed, which is basically a good thing in this case.
We also asked about the rumor about going home next week and he said basically what we expected: "Maybe."
It's all good news.
McGrath Pest Control checked the traps this morning and found no rats. They couldn't find one trap, though. They assured us the rats didn't carry it off. Note: We found this trap in the bedroom later. It apparently fell from the hole before Gary fixed it. Strangely comforting to have it accounted for.
Gary didn't make it this morning. I finally called about 10 minutes ago and he was very apologetic and said he was on his way. For me, the big thing is done. I'm not bothered that he's not here yet. I really just wanted to know how to plan my day.
Mom and I have been cleaning out bookcases. We found a comic book about Jesus in Russian. I'm curious how such a book ended up in the hands of Jewish refugees to the United States. Maybe the Welcome Wagon.
Conlon said he is doing well; he's the 1-in-10 leukemia/chemo patients who isn't slammed by the side-effects. At least so far. I finally worked up the guts to ask the prognosis question again. Conlon said Vlad has an "average" case of MLA. His chromosomes are normal, not deformed, which is basically a good thing in this case.
We also asked about the rumor about going home next week and he said basically what we expected: "Maybe."
It's all good news.
McGrath Pest Control checked the traps this morning and found no rats. They couldn't find one trap, though. They assured us the rats didn't carry it off. Note: We found this trap in the bedroom later. It apparently fell from the hole before Gary fixed it. Strangely comforting to have it accounted for.
Gary didn't make it this morning. I finally called about 10 minutes ago and he was very apologetic and said he was on his way. For me, the big thing is done. I'm not bothered that he's not here yet. I really just wanted to know how to plan my day.
Mom and I have been cleaning out bookcases. We found a comic book about Jesus in Russian. I'm curious how such a book ended up in the hands of Jewish refugees to the United States. Maybe the Welcome Wagon.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
The evening news
Went to the hospital about 3 pm. Stayed till 8 pm. Vlad's weaker and today was a tiny bit cranky. But for pete's sake, he's entitled. I helped him shower and served him snacks -- 2 containers of Dinty Moore beef stew. He's officially out of snacks now. So after I left, I went to HEB for some refills. It appears his appetite shall not wane. Even so, he's lost 16 pounds to date. His BP was good tonight, something like 111/75, blood sugar in the 220s and his pulse is consistently a bit high, around 115 tonight.
Mom continued to dust and such while I was gone. Got her some tacos on the way home. My grocery shopping has been pretty nonexistent and there wasn't much to eat. She's practically a prisoner with the broken gate.
I need to be at the hospital early tomorrow. Conlon showed up today (Thursday) at 7:40 a.m., earliest time yet. We've got a big Easter weekend and a lot of questions.
Gary finished the Sheetrock and looked at the fan/vents on the roof. He said all three need to be replaced. They were all installed incorrectly. This would explain some leaks that seemed to have no source. What is it about contractors? So many bad ones. We're so lucky to know Gary. He builds houses so he knows a lot about everything in construction and likes to take odd jobs between the big jobs. Anyway, he'll do that bit tomorrow. How much is all this going to cost? We don't know yet. Keeping fingers crossed.
Bill is returning this weekend to help. Yay! There will be some blinds-cleaning and some hauling of stuff to Second Blessing, the second-hand thrift shop we donate our stuff to. And other duties. Moving furniture around and all that rot.
Alex was still feeling no pain at 6 pm after his dental surgery. He was being pampered by Lana and John, who know very well how to pamper.
Karla called tonight and it was great to chat with her. About halfway through the call my brain short-circuited. She probably understands. I'm finding myself mentally exhausted a lot these days. I should have a code word for friends when my brain decides to log off, like "scrambled eggs" or "control-alt-delete" or something, so they'll know it's not them.
It will be slightly complicated for Mom in the morning with the gate broken. I will be at the hospital. Gary knows how to get around it, but I need to catch the pest control guys before they get here. Unnecessary stress is a real pisser.
I guess that's enough. Forgot to take photos today.
Control-alt-delete, y'all.
P.S.: Today was the first day of spring. I was reminded of that by looking at the chron.com/houstongardening page, which my supervisor, Jenny, is handling in my absence. The page looks so great. The Lazy Gardener, Brenda Beust Smith, wrote about spring yesterday and it reminds me of a commercial from like 20 years ago. It was one of those Bartles & James wine coolers ads. Two crusty gents in plaid shirts, looking like they escaped from a "Newhart" set, talking about why you should drink Bartles & James. They said something about it being spring. They looked on the calendar and saw "Vernal Equinox." One said, "Well, we went to school with Vernal, and ... " Ha!
Maybe you had to be there.
Scrambled eggs.
Mom continued to dust and such while I was gone. Got her some tacos on the way home. My grocery shopping has been pretty nonexistent and there wasn't much to eat. She's practically a prisoner with the broken gate.
I need to be at the hospital early tomorrow. Conlon showed up today (Thursday) at 7:40 a.m., earliest time yet. We've got a big Easter weekend and a lot of questions.
Gary finished the Sheetrock and looked at the fan/vents on the roof. He said all three need to be replaced. They were all installed incorrectly. This would explain some leaks that seemed to have no source. What is it about contractors? So many bad ones. We're so lucky to know Gary. He builds houses so he knows a lot about everything in construction and likes to take odd jobs between the big jobs. Anyway, he'll do that bit tomorrow. How much is all this going to cost? We don't know yet. Keeping fingers crossed.
Bill is returning this weekend to help. Yay! There will be some blinds-cleaning and some hauling of stuff to Second Blessing, the second-hand thrift shop we donate our stuff to. And other duties. Moving furniture around and all that rot.
Alex was still feeling no pain at 6 pm after his dental surgery. He was being pampered by Lana and John, who know very well how to pamper.
Karla called tonight and it was great to chat with her. About halfway through the call my brain short-circuited. She probably understands. I'm finding myself mentally exhausted a lot these days. I should have a code word for friends when my brain decides to log off, like "scrambled eggs" or "control-alt-delete" or something, so they'll know it's not them.
It will be slightly complicated for Mom in the morning with the gate broken. I will be at the hospital. Gary knows how to get around it, but I need to catch the pest control guys before they get here. Unnecessary stress is a real pisser.
I guess that's enough. Forgot to take photos today.
Control-alt-delete, y'all.
P.S.: Today was the first day of spring. I was reminded of that by looking at the chron.com/houstongardening page, which my supervisor, Jenny, is handling in my absence. The page looks so great. The Lazy Gardener, Brenda Beust Smith, wrote about spring yesterday and it reminds me of a commercial from like 20 years ago. It was one of those Bartles & James wine coolers ads. Two crusty gents in plaid shirts, looking like they escaped from a "Newhart" set, talking about why you should drink Bartles & James. They said something about it being spring. They looked on the calendar and saw "Vernal Equinox." One said, "Well, we went to school with Vernal, and ... " Ha!
Maybe you had to be there.
Scrambled eggs.
Clean, clean, clean
Vlad is doing great this morning. Although he's weak, that's to be expected. The white cells were back down to 800 this morning. The doctor said he's doing so well that Vlad may be released next week. I hope everything continues to go along well. He sounds pretty good. Sleeping a lot today, partly because I've been home a lot today. But sleep is good for him.
Meanwhile Mom and I are cleaning like crazy. It's a daunting job, believe me. But we're making good progress. Gary is here fixing the Sheetrock in the bedroom. I didn't realize he'd be able to act so quickly. He thinks he can fix the vent (it blew over in Tuesday's storms) on the roof tomorrow. Nothing else has broken yet, except the entrance gate to the property, but that's broken half the time.
Alex had all four of his wisdom teeth out this morning. He's recuperating at his mother's. Poor kid will be a mess for a few days.
Gary thinks Vlad should think about a serious fast. Like 60 days. I'm thinking, mmmm ... no. I don't think the kidneys would like that. He says he knows a guy who beat AIDS with such a fast. He also said he tried it himself, but couldn't stick it out. Can't you starve in 60 days? Yikes.
Trying to get to the hospital. I'm nearly done with what I must accomplish today. I'll head over then. If you're wondering whether to visit, just do it. It's great medicine for everybody.
Meanwhile Mom and I are cleaning like crazy. It's a daunting job, believe me. But we're making good progress. Gary is here fixing the Sheetrock in the bedroom. I didn't realize he'd be able to act so quickly. He thinks he can fix the vent (it blew over in Tuesday's storms) on the roof tomorrow. Nothing else has broken yet, except the entrance gate to the property, but that's broken half the time.
Alex had all four of his wisdom teeth out this morning. He's recuperating at his mother's. Poor kid will be a mess for a few days.
Gary thinks Vlad should think about a serious fast. Like 60 days. I'm thinking, mmmm ... no. I don't think the kidneys would like that. He says he knows a guy who beat AIDS with such a fast. He also said he tried it himself, but couldn't stick it out. Can't you starve in 60 days? Yikes.
Trying to get to the hospital. I'm nearly done with what I must accomplish today. I'll head over then. If you're wondering whether to visit, just do it. It's great medicine for everybody.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Traps are set
The pest control guy, Scott, says he sees rat droppings. He set some traps and they'll come back Friday morning to retrieve any dead ones, lest we have to smell them all weekend.
Mom's here, sweeping. I'm now racing to get to the hospital. Vlad sounds really weak and there's no one with him that I'm aware of, so I'm a little anxious.
Later.
Mom's here, sweeping. I'm now racing to get to the hospital. Vlad sounds really weak and there's no one with him that I'm aware of, so I'm a little anxious.
Later.
Wednesday morning report
I'm at home this morning. Talked to Vlad and he's feeling good. His white count is 1,000. John's there. Terry will be there shortly. Mom's on her way here today. She's going to help me make the house spic 'n' span and be my big shoulder.
Linda called this morning. She's working insane hours. She doesn't know when she'll be able to come. Also got call from the exterminator. They have an opening today and will be here at 2 pm for an inspection. Lee, wife of Bruce the A/C guy, said one of them would call this morning sometime when they know whether he can come today. The air duct cleaners are coming Monday afternoon between 2 and 5 pm.
Ah, welcome to our vacation. Who needs Hawaii?
Correction: Apparently I was half-asleep during my phone call with Linda. Terry is not coming today; the two of them are coming Easter Sunday.
Linda called this morning. She's working insane hours. She doesn't know when she'll be able to come. Also got call from the exterminator. They have an opening today and will be here at 2 pm for an inspection. Lee, wife of Bruce the A/C guy, said one of them would call this morning sometime when they know whether he can come today. The air duct cleaners are coming Monday afternoon between 2 and 5 pm.
Ah, welcome to our vacation. Who needs Hawaii?
Correction: Apparently I was half-asleep during my phone call with Linda. Terry is not coming today; the two of them are coming Easter Sunday.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Photo finish #2
(Kevin Fujii/Chronicle)The Rockets lost #23. But they keep 2nd place for straight wins in the NBA. Boston played like a bunch of starving pit bulls. Out for blood. I'm just glad no one got hurt.
... and today.Chemo ends
The Ara-C petered out at 3:25 p.m. Currently there is just one bag hanging on Vlad's Christmas tree. He's taking a shower without the Christmas tree.
A momentous day for us to be sure. But it also must be a milestone for the staff. Making their debuts today: the palliative care nurse and the chaplain. The nurse manager Robert came by, too. Plus we lost LaVorne, a quite experienced chemo nurse.
A couple of people on staff asked if we were leaving tomorrow. We thought it was standard op to stay the 3-4 weeks. We haven't heard different from the doc. But we'll be asking in the morning.
Mallick came by and checked Vlad's lungs. They're awesome. The nebulizer treatments are now going to be every 6 hours instead of 3 hours. He's going out of town with his kids the rest of the week.
Nurse tale du jour: Terrye is from outside Roanoke, Va. We were just in that neck of the woods in October. Our friends Peter and Karla moved to Hampton, Tenn., in the Smoky Mountains and we saw the gorgeous fall foliage. Terrye said her family sends her leaves from the Blue Ridge Mountain trees every fall. She makes a collage every fall but has to throw it away because the colors fade. She said they used to paint the colored leaves with something when she was a girl that would keep the colors. But no one remembers what it is.
A momentous day for us to be sure. But it also must be a milestone for the staff. Making their debuts today: the palliative care nurse and the chaplain. The nurse manager Robert came by, too. Plus we lost LaVorne, a quite experienced chemo nurse.
A couple of people on staff asked if we were leaving tomorrow. We thought it was standard op to stay the 3-4 weeks. We haven't heard different from the doc. But we'll be asking in the morning.
Mallick came by and checked Vlad's lungs. They're awesome. The nebulizer treatments are now going to be every 6 hours instead of 3 hours. He's going out of town with his kids the rest of the week.
Nurse tale du jour: Terrye is from outside Roanoke, Va. We were just in that neck of the woods in October. Our friends Peter and Karla moved to Hampton, Tenn., in the Smoky Mountains and we saw the gorgeous fall foliage. Terrye said her family sends her leaves from the Blue Ridge Mountain trees every fall. She makes a collage every fall but has to throw it away because the colors fade. She said they used to paint the colored leaves with something when she was a girl that would keep the colors. But no one remembers what it is.
Homemade food fight
Vlad still feeling normal. Cough is the same. Still taking Hycodan 10ccs as needed. Also has another cough drug. They'll be taking him off the potassium and the prednisone today. And we're just a couple of hours away from saying bye-bye to the Ara-C, the 24-7 chemo drug. His white cells were at 800 this morning. Conlon says they jump around (yesterday morning they were 600). BP this morning was 133/74; blood sugar 334 (!), and temp 96.3.
Nurse LaVorne said not to eat anymore homemade food. Because his blood sugar was so high, they need to keep closer tabs. The more Vlad thought about this, the more upset he got. After all, he doesn't eat half the food they serve him. Like sugar-free cake, the rolls, the bagels. And what our friends bring are homemade soups made with things like organic chicken. Everything's legal and even better than hospital food, if I may be so bold. I told him it's just that they need to keep strict records of what he eats. That did nothing to placate. In his culture, you take food to the hospital. Over there, food is not part of what hospitals do. So it's deep in his genes. But with glucose numbers like 330, it's making it hard to make a case for him. I think the nurses assume he's eating candy and potato chips, which he wouldn't eat on a good day.
He was so upset that I called the Nurse Navigator, Marcela. She said we could talk to Conlon in the AM and he would most likely make an exception under the circumstances. She made a note in the chart. About a half-hour later, LaVorne came in and said we have a new nurse, Terrye, because several patients checked out and they had to even out the load. But I wondered if she didn't like what we did and dumped us. I'm clueless really. I called Marcela for advice, not to steamroll over LaVorne, if that's what happened. I'm probably paranoid. We really like LaVorne. Oh well.
The blood sugar was "down" to 270 before lunch. He got 6 units of insulin from Nurse Terrye.
Conlon told Vlad to expect a sore throat and diarrhea. I'm anxious about how Vlad will feel when they pull out the chemo. Will he suddenly feel bad? We have been so lucky that he hasn't had any side effects to speak of so far. Say a prayer.
Nurse LaVorne said not to eat anymore homemade food. Because his blood sugar was so high, they need to keep closer tabs. The more Vlad thought about this, the more upset he got. After all, he doesn't eat half the food they serve him. Like sugar-free cake, the rolls, the bagels. And what our friends bring are homemade soups made with things like organic chicken. Everything's legal and even better than hospital food, if I may be so bold. I told him it's just that they need to keep strict records of what he eats. That did nothing to placate. In his culture, you take food to the hospital. Over there, food is not part of what hospitals do. So it's deep in his genes. But with glucose numbers like 330, it's making it hard to make a case for him. I think the nurses assume he's eating candy and potato chips, which he wouldn't eat on a good day.
He was so upset that I called the Nurse Navigator, Marcela. She said we could talk to Conlon in the AM and he would most likely make an exception under the circumstances. She made a note in the chart. About a half-hour later, LaVorne came in and said we have a new nurse, Terrye, because several patients checked out and they had to even out the load. But I wondered if she didn't like what we did and dumped us. I'm clueless really. I called Marcela for advice, not to steamroll over LaVorne, if that's what happened. I'm probably paranoid. We really like LaVorne. Oh well.
The blood sugar was "down" to 270 before lunch. He got 6 units of insulin from Nurse Terrye.
Conlon told Vlad to expect a sore throat and diarrhea. I'm anxious about how Vlad will feel when they pull out the chemo. Will he suddenly feel bad? We have been so lucky that he hasn't had any side effects to speak of so far. Say a prayer.
All wet
I wasn't feeling good today; so I came home around 6, leaving Vlad and Alex to play some chess. Lana arrived with borscht and some late visitors were expected -- Olga among them. I'm feeling better now. I think it's all the fast food. I'm not used to it and am vowing not to do any more for awhile.
Vlad ate like a horse today. His BP inched up a bit more and he still has no fever. The cough is strange. He goes along for hours without it, then it hits like a tornado out of the blue. He's still on the codeine cough syrup.
John and Alex left about 15 minutes ago. Another leak developed today in the master bedroom. Another length of PVC condensation line with rat holes and a clog to boot. They got here about 10:30 pm and got to work with duct tape, flashlights, leather gloves, trash bags. There's now a hole in the bedroom ceiling, taped up, but it's just a glorious mess. They said there were at least 10 gnawed holes like the one on the other pipe that caused so much grief last Friday. This one, however, did not drip all over the bedroom like the other one.
After the patch job, we all sat in the kitchen and drank some wine and talked about everything, mostly Vlad. It was a nice oasis of time between all the insanity.
The bedroom already smells moldy/musty from Friday's leak. I'm wondering if we'll have to put Vlad into Alex's old room when he gets home. I don't know if we can put the master together before then. We shall see.
I've got to call the A/C guy in the morning. Oi.
Vlad ate like a horse today. His BP inched up a bit more and he still has no fever. The cough is strange. He goes along for hours without it, then it hits like a tornado out of the blue. He's still on the codeine cough syrup.
John and Alex left about 15 minutes ago. Another leak developed today in the master bedroom. Another length of PVC condensation line with rat holes and a clog to boot. They got here about 10:30 pm and got to work with duct tape, flashlights, leather gloves, trash bags. There's now a hole in the bedroom ceiling, taped up, but it's just a glorious mess. They said there were at least 10 gnawed holes like the one on the other pipe that caused so much grief last Friday. This one, however, did not drip all over the bedroom like the other one.
After the patch job, we all sat in the kitchen and drank some wine and talked about everything, mostly Vlad. It was a nice oasis of time between all the insanity.
The bedroom already smells moldy/musty from Friday's leak. I'm wondering if we'll have to put Vlad into Alex's old room when he gets home. I don't know if we can put the master together before then. We shall see.
I've got to call the A/C guy in the morning. Oi.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Neutropenia: Day 1
Vlad's white cell count is now at 0.6, about at the bottom. He'll get his last (7th) bag of Ida-C today. Conlon came in today and told us this. I asked which week will be the worst for Vlad, he said this week. And yet Vlad seems to feel no real side effects yet.
I got into a really foul mood very quickly this morning for no identifiable reason. So I picked up/dropped off papers at Conlon's office and told Vlad I'd come back in a better mood this afternoon.
Now I have to pay bills, one of Vlad's chores. We may have identified the source of the foul mood.
Correction: Today was the last bag of the "Ara-C": Cytarabine (Cytosar-U®).
I got into a really foul mood very quickly this morning for no identifiable reason. So I picked up/dropped off papers at Conlon's office and told Vlad I'd come back in a better mood this afternoon.
Now I have to pay bills, one of Vlad's chores. We may have identified the source of the foul mood.
Correction: Today was the last bag of the "Ara-C": Cytarabine (Cytosar-U®).
Sunday, March 16, 2008
It gets better
Our Rockets: They did it! We all got decked out in our Rockets hats, Vlad, Bill and I, and watched them pummel the Lakers for No. 22.
Milestone #1: The better news is that Vlad's nephrologist is history. His kidneys are back to normal; no damage. One doctor down, several more to go, eh?Milestone #2: First blood transfusion tonight.
Some vitals: Lost 4 pounds; blood sugar back up tonight over 250 so he had to take some insulin; temp 97.2 (normal for him); BP up to 133/something tonight. (I left notes at the hospital).
The big number du jour: white blood cells at 1.8. When he's below 1 he is technically neutropenic. He'll probably hit neutropenia tomorrow. I thought I was told he was neutropenic earlier today. Sometimes we get conflicting interpretations from different nurses/doctors, but the general drift is usually about the same.
Neutropenic: The non-technical definition is that your white blood cells are almost non-existent, ergo you have virtually no immune system. So any little germ can set you off on a life-threatening infection. With this chemo treatment it usually lasts about 2-3 weeks, which is why patients on this type of chemo are in for about a 1-month stay in the hospital.
If you visit now (and please do!): There will be a sign on the door with instructions like: No plants/flowers, no children, no fresh fruit or cheese or sausage. You must wash your hands with the anti-bacterial goo by the door. And you may be required to wear a mask: for instance if you have a sick child at home, you'd need a mask because you may have a germ or two. If you think you're coming down with something, please visit when you're well. Or call. (713-778-7073 is the room; or call Vlad's cell.)
He's already starting to get a little weak. When he gets tired, the coughing begins. So I try to get him quiet for awhile, when we're alone. Try to relax. Wash his feet. Comb his hair. Watch the tube. It seems to help temporarily. He gets a little dizzy sometimes. It's to be expected. He's reacting very normally to everything so far.
Visitors: My personal hero, brother Bill, and John & Lana, Valiya & Sasha, and Alex came in from UTSA in San Antonio about 9 pm. He brought a chess board. Lana brought borscht and mashed potatoes and silatka (salted herring), but he couldn't eat that. Verboten.
Nurse tale du jour: Judy from Baton Rouge. Not a Katrina evacuee, but she prides herself on saying she stayed (well, it was Baton Rouge, bad but not NO). I think because she housed a bunch of people who were devastated by the storm. She moved to Houston later with a bunch of her family, some of whom were already here. She tried to get her 80-year-old Papa to come, but he had too many friends over at the casino in Mississippi. So he stayed and is building a house. Himself. At 80. Yea, baby!
Sunday morning blues
I just spoke with Vlad on the phone. He had a bad night. The cough seems to be getting worse again. He didn't get a lot of sleep between the coughing and the constant need to pee. Nurse LaVorne is requesting from doc that his cough medicine dose be increased. Vlad says the sleeping pill does nothing for him.
He's also frustrated by questions about the disease. We all want to understand the leukemia and there are so many variables, you can't know what's going to happen, especially with regard to treatment. "When will this happen?" I don't know. "What to expect?" I don't know. And talking about the progression is scary. Plus this illness happened so fast, he hasn't really had time to get used to the idea that he has cancer.
This morning he's full of reality. Not a happy camper.
He's also frustrated by questions about the disease. We all want to understand the leukemia and there are so many variables, you can't know what's going to happen, especially with regard to treatment. "When will this happen?" I don't know. "What to expect?" I don't know. And talking about the progression is scary. Plus this illness happened so fast, he hasn't really had time to get used to the idea that he has cancer.
This morning he's full of reality. Not a happy camper.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Saturday: Full house
Above: Bill shows Vlad his poker face while they watch World Poker Tour today.
Vlad is feeling really well today, prompting more than one person to ask, "Why are you even in the hospital?" He has a few more days until the chemo begins to take its toll. His sugar numbers were better and he thinks it's because he stopped agreeing to take the insulin. His sugar at 5 p.m. was 206. The nephrologist visited and said the kidneys continue to improve as did creatinine numbers. The pulmonary doc couldn't get over how good Vlad looked. Although Vlad still coughs, it's not quite as much and is much more productive. He has had no fever for 2 days. Conlon's surrogate was also pleased but offered no specifics.
Bill and I got some A/C supplies at Ace Hardware and he got down to fixing the condenser line. It appears the culprit is some kind of rodent that chewed a sizable hole in the pipe. Now it appears we need to set traps. Oi. We've been home about an hour and turned the A/C on then. So far so good.
I was at the hospital late morning then went to pick up Bill back at the house and run some errands -- Rockets paraphernalia for tomorrow's game (hats for everybody!), Vlad snacks, etc. We went back to the hospital and stayed till after 9:30 pm.
Today's visitors included: Vlad's friend Sevelly and his wife; Alex's best friend Nick Barron; and Liliya and Nailiya, who brought borscht. Callers included Valiya, Joseph from P, John, Alex and Mom.
Friday, March 14, 2008
When it rains ...
The radio reception for 610 AM was pretty rough inside Concrete Central, but Vlad heard the game -- win No. 21 -- and I'm so glad because he loves his Rockets. Sunday is a bigger game: The Lakers for No. 22. The Lakers hold the current NBA consecutive-wins title (33). It will be interesting. And it will be on national TV.
The X-rays showed Vlad's lungs clear. It's all in his head, so to speak: it's basically a sinus infection/bronchitis, Dr. Malik said today. He's doing nebulizer treatments, antibiotics, codeine syrup and Ambien or something similar. Tonight he was coughing a lot again. But I think he was tired. He should be better tomorrow.
He's still not feeling any side effects. He said tonight he was getting a little loopy: suffering mild memory lapses. We'll keep an eye on that.
Bill came in from Austin and we had a nice visit with Vlad before we left for dinner, since the cafeteria closed at 7:30 p.m. (!) We got home after burgers and a beer at Beck's and discovered a leak in the ceiling in the master bedroom. My brother poked around in the attic found an A/C condenser pipe was leaking. It got up to like nearly 90 today, so it's time for our A/C to go haywire again. One pair of Vlad's shoes -- Italian leather -- were dripping wet. I poured a half-cup of water out of one of them. It's been leaking all day. Bill thinks he can fix it.
You just have to laugh, right?
The X-rays showed Vlad's lungs clear. It's all in his head, so to speak: it's basically a sinus infection/bronchitis, Dr. Malik said today. He's doing nebulizer treatments, antibiotics, codeine syrup and Ambien or something similar. Tonight he was coughing a lot again. But I think he was tired. He should be better tomorrow.
He's still not feeling any side effects. He said tonight he was getting a little loopy: suffering mild memory lapses. We'll keep an eye on that.
Bill came in from Austin and we had a nice visit with Vlad before we left for dinner, since the cafeteria closed at 7:30 p.m. (!) We got home after burgers and a beer at Beck's and discovered a leak in the ceiling in the master bedroom. My brother poked around in the attic found an A/C condenser pipe was leaking. It got up to like nearly 90 today, so it's time for our A/C to go haywire again. One pair of Vlad's shoes -- Italian leather -- were dripping wet. I poured a half-cup of water out of one of them. It's been leaking all day. Bill thinks he can fix it.
You just have to laugh, right?
TGIF
Vlad's cough is much better today. He's traded it for hiccups. Poor guy can't get a break! He's also hungry; he hasn't been hungry for 5 days. The white count is down to about 13,000, which is a significant drop. That's the chemo working. But he's not feeling any side effects yet.
I worked downtown today. A lot to do and I didn't want to leave Jenny with a bunch of stuff to do; but she ended up picking up some marketing stuff I had forgotten to do in the fog of this nightmare. She worked from home sick today. She's amazing.
Had to run errands; bought a radio/CD player/MP3 player at Walgreen's. Mainly so we can listen to the game. It's been a long time since I heard Gene Peterson call a Rockets game. They're playing the Bobcats (does that not sound like a high school team?). We're hoping for 21.
Bill's coming in. I hope he doesn't get lost or get into I-10 shutdowns. He's a trouper though.
OK, going to the hospital. Will be back late. Thanks for reading.
I worked downtown today. A lot to do and I didn't want to leave Jenny with a bunch of stuff to do; but she ended up picking up some marketing stuff I had forgotten to do in the fog of this nightmare. She worked from home sick today. She's amazing.
Had to run errands; bought a radio/CD player/MP3 player at Walgreen's. Mainly so we can listen to the game. It's been a long time since I heard Gene Peterson call a Rockets game. They're playing the Bobcats (does that not sound like a high school team?). We're hoping for 21.
Bill's coming in. I hope he doesn't get lost or get into I-10 shutdowns. He's a trouper though.
OK, going to the hospital. Will be back late. Thanks for reading.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Dr. Malik and the X-rays
The pulmonary specialist Dr. Malik came today. He suspects bronchitis and possibly a sinus infection. With Malik came more drugs and more X-rays. Vlad should have an easier night.
Liliya and Larisa visited tonight and brought meat cutletas and mashed potatoes, one of Vlad's favorite meals. Liliya visited last night with a bigger crew: Karina, Nayilia and Fuad. Karina was hit by a drunken driver on the way home, but is OK and the SUV is drivable. They were dealing with it with the cops until 1 a.m. The other driver, a woman dressed to the 9s, tried to drive away twice but Liliya and Karina (driving separate vehicles) boxed her in and waited for the cops. Scary.
John visited at lunchtime again. Joseph from Pittsburgh called and my brother, who is arriving tomorrow, called to say he'll be at the hospital 7ish tomorrow night. He says he's going to shave his head in solidarity. Awesome gesture. I'm going to put him to work. Poor baby has no idea. :) Talked to Mom a couple of times. And Linda sent an e-mail greeting. She's had chemo, and was talking about the beeping IV lines. Funny, because it seems like that's all they did all day. They get crossed funny or crimped and the machine goes nuts like that robot on Lost in Space: "Downward Occlusion! Downward Occlusion!"
Liliya and Larisa visited tonight and brought meat cutletas and mashed potatoes, one of Vlad's favorite meals. Liliya visited last night with a bigger crew: Karina, Nayilia and Fuad. Karina was hit by a drunken driver on the way home, but is OK and the SUV is drivable. They were dealing with it with the cops until 1 a.m. The other driver, a woman dressed to the 9s, tried to drive away twice but Liliya and Karina (driving separate vehicles) boxed her in and waited for the cops. Scary.
John visited at lunchtime again. Joseph from Pittsburgh called and my brother, who is arriving tomorrow, called to say he'll be at the hospital 7ish tomorrow night. He says he's going to shave his head in solidarity. Awesome gesture. I'm going to put him to work. Poor baby has no idea. :) Talked to Mom a couple of times. And Linda sent an e-mail greeting. She's had chemo, and was talking about the beeping IV lines. Funny, because it seems like that's all they did all day. They get crossed funny or crimped and the machine goes nuts like that robot on Lost in Space: "Downward Occlusion! Downward Occlusion!"
So tomorrow, we hope for news that Vlad is closer to the end of the cough from hell with the help of codeine and antibiotics and whatever else. He's not feeling any side effects of the chemo yet.
Long day tomorrow.
The cough from hell
Vlad has developed a nasty cough and is very congested. Conlon's kind of been dismissing it; maybe he thought it was minor or would disappear. But Vlad didn't sleep last night because of it and nurses were in and out trying to help him. So a pulmonary specialist (a lung doctor) has been assigned to check him out. Vlad's supposed to get a chest X-ray any minute, but no sign of Dr. Lung yet.
The nephrologist returned and said the kidneys were not normal yet, but they would get there. They're still giving him potassium and sodium bicarb to clear up his body chemistry.
It hasn't been a great day so far, but there has not been any significant news one way or the other.
The nephrologist returned and said the kidneys were not normal yet, but they would get there. They're still giving him potassium and sodium bicarb to clear up his body chemistry.
It hasn't been a great day so far, but there has not been any significant news one way or the other.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
More chemo, cats and cheese
The second chemo line was started about 2:30 p.m. It went until 3. Vlad gets that one for 30 minutes a day, 3 days a week. I think that's "the Ida."
The kidney doctor came by and told Vlad his kidneys are almost completely normal now. Vlad went for the kidney sonogram a little later. We hope to get results tomorrow.
What am I, 10 years old? What's a kidney doctor? ... I have to look it up. A renal specialist? OK, here it is: A nephrologist. Now I sound like an adult.
I've been home working. The folks at the chron have been very generous about my neediness right now. I'm going to be off the next two weeks. I'm finding this whole thing more exhausting than I expected. I got so sleepy about 1:30 I couldn't stay awake. I went to take a nap. When the alarm went off, I didn't know where I was or what day it was.
Then: Cats. Screaming and howling. Keezee and a black cat that's new to the neighborhood. This black cat looks a bit like a New York Giant next to Keezee, and Keezee's no wimp. I broke it up with a broom. Well, that woke me up.
Well Liliya's coming by the hospital tonight with Russian food. One thing is homemade farmer's cheese. That sounds like it may be chemo-illegal. I gotta get back to the hospital to reread the food rules.
The kidney doctor came by and told Vlad his kidneys are almost completely normal now. Vlad went for the kidney sonogram a little later. We hope to get results tomorrow.
What am I, 10 years old? What's a kidney doctor? ... I have to look it up. A renal specialist? OK, here it is: A nephrologist. Now I sound like an adult.
I've been home working. The folks at the chron have been very generous about my neediness right now. I'm going to be off the next two weeks. I'm finding this whole thing more exhausting than I expected. I got so sleepy about 1:30 I couldn't stay awake. I went to take a nap. When the alarm went off, I didn't know where I was or what day it was.
Then: Cats. Screaming and howling. Keezee and a black cat that's new to the neighborhood. This black cat looks a bit like a New York Giant next to Keezee, and Keezee's no wimp. I broke it up with a broom. Well, that woke me up.Well Liliya's coming by the hospital tonight with Russian food. One thing is homemade farmer's cheese. That sounds like it may be chemo-illegal. I gotta get back to the hospital to reread the food rules.
Wednesday morning forecast: Shower
This morning it was a shower, clean clothes, clean room. We ran out of hot water, but that's small potatoes. Clean sheets are on the way.
During Dr. Conlon's visit this morning, he said Vlad's kidney situation continues to improve and he's happy with the progress. They'll start the second chemo drug, "the Ida," today. Vlad's already on "the Ara-C."
The doc also said the CT scan from last Friday showed a spot on his liver, a slightly enlarged spleen and some swollen lymphnodes. But he said that was textbook for this leukemia, and he isn't concerned about those now. He said the chemo is attacking everything.
Had to run some disability papers over to Conlon's office. Now back at work. I've been talking with my supervisor, Jenny, about taking the next two weeks off. I've just got to get a handle on this and I can't do it while I'm working. I just hope I'll be able to figure out how to do it on the other side of the two weeks.
Anyway, must work now. Later.
During Dr. Conlon's visit this morning, he said Vlad's kidney situation continues to improve and he's happy with the progress. They'll start the second chemo drug, "the Ida," today. Vlad's already on "the Ara-C."
The doc also said the CT scan from last Friday showed a spot on his liver, a slightly enlarged spleen and some swollen lymphnodes. But he said that was textbook for this leukemia, and he isn't concerned about those now. He said the chemo is attacking everything.
Had to run some disability papers over to Conlon's office. Now back at work. I've been talking with my supervisor, Jenny, about taking the next two weeks off. I've just got to get a handle on this and I can't do it while I'm working. I just hope I'll be able to figure out how to do it on the other side of the two weeks.
Anyway, must work now. Later.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Tuesday night: Programming remotes
Vlad's doing well tonight; tired but I think he'll sleep well. Sasha and Valiya came by with homemade chicken noodle soup, the original alternative medicine, and a universal remote because all the remote controls for the little LED TVs disappeared. It's not so much about watching TV; it's the challenge of programming a universal remote. It's an engineer thing.
I talked to my brother tonight. He's coming in from Austin this weekend to help me out with things. I asked him if he knows how to use a gas grill. He said, "It's fire. I'm a man. It's one of the few things we can still do." Well, that and program universal remotes.
Today Vlad finally succumbed to insulin. His blood sugar was up and down all day. It was 220 before he went to bed. They said taking insulin in this hospital setting is more about stabilizing chemistry not treating diabetes, and should therefore not be dependent on it when he gets out. It's a non-issue at this point.
Tomorrow the kidney sonogram. Looking for stones and whatnot. I'd like to hear more about test results from the doc on morning rounds. We'll see.
Thanks for tuning in.
I talked to my brother tonight. He's coming in from Austin this weekend to help me out with things. I asked him if he knows how to use a gas grill. He said, "It's fire. I'm a man. It's one of the few things we can still do." Well, that and program universal remotes.
Today Vlad finally succumbed to insulin. His blood sugar was up and down all day. It was 220 before he went to bed. They said taking insulin in this hospital setting is more about stabilizing chemistry not treating diabetes, and should therefore not be dependent on it when he gets out. It's a non-issue at this point.
Tomorrow the kidney sonogram. Looking for stones and whatnot. I'd like to hear more about test results from the doc on morning rounds. We'll see.
Thanks for tuning in.
A Christmas tree of drips
Vlad's "chemo lite" drip started around 11:30 a.m. He'll go for 7 days, 24 hours/day. He was attached to an anti-nausea drip an hour earlier. With all the lines, he feels like a Christmas tree.
Doc said the second drug will begin tomorrow barring any surprises.
Kidney specialist came by and said it appears there is no kidney damage, but he needs a bit more time to pronounce it as fact. He was very encouraged by Vlad's bouncing back so quickly.
Let's all breathe a sigh of relief: S - I - G - H - H - H -H.
A new rule has appeared: The bathroom in the room is Vlad's and Vlad's alone. The rest of us must walk down the hall to the loo.
Doc said the second drug will begin tomorrow barring any surprises.
Kidney specialist came by and said it appears there is no kidney damage, but he needs a bit more time to pronounce it as fact. He was very encouraged by Vlad's bouncing back so quickly.
Let's all breathe a sigh of relief: S - I - G - H - H - H -H.
A new rule has appeared: The bathroom in the room is Vlad's and Vlad's alone. The rest of us must walk down the hall to the loo.
Onward to chemo
It's basically good news. The confusion is over. Vlad got himself into kidney failure because of the disease progression, however it is under control and the kidneys are responding to treatment. That unexpected crisis is over.
His "chemo lite" should start around 11 a.m. if all goes well. Dr. Conlon wants to start with only one of the two drugs and monitor his kidneys for a couple of days. In the meantime, a kidney specialist will consult. By the way, the two chemo drugs he will get are: idarubicin (Idamycin®) and cytarabine (ara-C; Cytosar-U®).
The heart scan, something known as a MUGA (personally, my favorite test name), came out beautifully.
Also: personal thanks to Terry, Jane, Valiya and Carol R. I temporarily lost my phone, but found it dead last night and got your messages this morning. You're all too kind. Thanks.
I'm at home, working on all things chron.com/houstongardening from a Citrix connection. Vlad seems to need me more in the evening and I need to work as much as possible. The wireless connection at MemHermSW doesn't work for me and I couldn't get a satisfactory Internet connection in their education room. So this the best I can do for now. I'll go back after 5. Valiya's bringing soup!
His "chemo lite" should start around 11 a.m. if all goes well. Dr. Conlon wants to start with only one of the two drugs and monitor his kidneys for a couple of days. In the meantime, a kidney specialist will consult. By the way, the two chemo drugs he will get are: idarubicin (Idamycin®) and cytarabine (ara-C; Cytosar-U®).
The heart scan, something known as a MUGA (personally, my favorite test name), came out beautifully.
Also: personal thanks to Terry, Jane, Valiya and Carol R. I temporarily lost my phone, but found it dead last night and got your messages this morning. You're all too kind. Thanks.
I'm at home, working on all things chron.com/houstongardening from a Citrix connection. Vlad seems to need me more in the evening and I need to work as much as possible. The wireless connection at MemHermSW doesn't work for me and I couldn't get a satisfactory Internet connection in their education room. So this the best I can do for now. I'll go back after 5. Valiya's bringing soup!
Tuesday stuff: Chemo and visiting
I'm getting ready to go in. I hope the doctor will have test result information today. I hope Vlad's body chemistry is more normal and we can start chemo today. I'll keep you posted.
A few tidbits:
-- Visiting is great, so is calling. He will get the chemo via IV in his room. He'll be awake and probably somewhat bored. One caveat: If you have a cold or something contagious, just call for now? We're on 10th floor of hospital.
-- I recommend the Texas parking lot along Beechnut. It's not a maximum $4, as I said earlier. It's a maximum $5. The Alamo lot is a maximum $4. Alamo's on the other side, but not that much farther. It's on the map on this page.
-- Dress warmly; the room is freezing.
-- No flowers or plants. No sweets.
Wish us luck.
A few tidbits:
-- Visiting is great, so is calling. He will get the chemo via IV in his room. He'll be awake and probably somewhat bored. One caveat: If you have a cold or something contagious, just call for now? We're on 10th floor of hospital.
-- I recommend the Texas parking lot along Beechnut. It's not a maximum $4, as I said earlier. It's a maximum $5. The Alamo lot is a maximum $4. Alamo's on the other side, but not that much farther. It's on the map on this page.
-- Dress warmly; the room is freezing.
-- No flowers or plants. No sweets.
Wish us luck.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Hydrating
We've hit a little snag. Vlad's kidneys are not cooperating. It's as if he's dehydrated despite drinking lots of water. He's now on a diabetic diet, not the regular diet, and is being pumped full of saline. More tests tonight to see if he'll be able to start chemo tomorrow.
Doc will be here tonight for another chat.
Vlad got an e-mail greeting from Linda. Thanks!
We turned on the TV and found a "Monk" we'd never seen. It's one of our favorite shows. So we're being couch potatoes for a an hour.
Doc will be here tonight for another chat.
Vlad got an e-mail greeting from Linda. Thanks!
We turned on the TV and found a "Monk" we'd never seen. It's one of our favorite shows. So we're being couch potatoes for a an hour.
We're in the room
We're settled in. I'm writing this from the room on a very slow connection that Vlad set up through his Blackberry. So I cannot post photos from here.
Our charge nurse, Clementine, is great. She's originally from Cameroon, is a huge soccer and NFL fan. We reminisced about the Super Bowl. Turns out the Giants are her team. But unfortunately, her NBA loyalties lie with the Lakers. :(
Dr. Conlon, the oncologist, does not have the results yet from cytogenic tests of a couple of weeks ago; nor the results from Friday's CT scan. But I did manage to find out that Vlad's subtype is acute monocytic leukemia. I'll be reading more on that today.
They just took Vlad to put in a line in his chest for the chemo. He's also getting some heart tests today.
Vlad lost 5 pounds overnight. Clementine says he likely won't lose his appetite after the chemo. But Dr. Conlon says he will lose his hair.
Clementine just told me there will be a Nurse Navigator in to talk about what to expect. I've got a lot of questions.
We also found out visitors are unrestricted the entire time as long as his blood cell count is acceptable. Flowers / plants are not a good idea. Whether he can have them depends on his count, which can change. When his count is down, visitors must wear masks. There will be a sign on the door and masks available if this is the case. Children are a bad idea after this week.
I'll post photos later, and maybe a video if I can make it work. Things are slow today, so feel free to call. Only not my cell because I left it at home. Either of Vlad's cell numbers will work.
Our charge nurse, Clementine, is great. She's originally from Cameroon, is a huge soccer and NFL fan. We reminisced about the Super Bowl. Turns out the Giants are her team. But unfortunately, her NBA loyalties lie with the Lakers. :(
Dr. Conlon, the oncologist, does not have the results yet from cytogenic tests of a couple of weeks ago; nor the results from Friday's CT scan. But I did manage to find out that Vlad's subtype is acute monocytic leukemia. I'll be reading more on that today.
They just took Vlad to put in a line in his chest for the chemo. He's also getting some heart tests today.
Vlad lost 5 pounds overnight. Clementine says he likely won't lose his appetite after the chemo. But Dr. Conlon says he will lose his hair.
Clementine just told me there will be a Nurse Navigator in to talk about what to expect. I've got a lot of questions.
We also found out visitors are unrestricted the entire time as long as his blood cell count is acceptable. Flowers / plants are not a good idea. Whether he can have them depends on his count, which can change. When his count is down, visitors must wear masks. There will be a sign on the door and masks available if this is the case. Children are a bad idea after this week.
I'll post photos later, and maybe a video if I can make it work. Things are slow today, so feel free to call. Only not my cell because I left it at home. Either of Vlad's cell numbers will work.
To the hospital
Vlad's feeling much better today. A little ironic, but we'll take it.
We're doublechecking paperwork, packing and all that. He's showing me where all the electronic gizmos are so I can fetch them later when he may want them. Where are the Netflix DVDs we've had for 2 months. Where are the passwords to pay bills online. A little surreal.
I'll check back later today, I hope with answers about visitation, chemo schedule and all that.
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.
We're doublechecking paperwork, packing and all that. He's showing me where all the electronic gizmos are so I can fetch them later when he may want them. Where are the Netflix DVDs we've had for 2 months. Where are the passwords to pay bills online. A little surreal.
I'll check back later today, I hope with answers about visitation, chemo schedule and all that.
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Last party for awhile
We went to a great party Saturday night for Liliya, who's kind of like a sister-in-law. She and her mother, Larisa, and daughter, Karina, were celebrating their 10-year anniversary of being in the United States. They came from Odessa, Ukraine. Vlad was one of the people who helped her get set up here, so we were invited to this celebration as were others, like the Russian guy, Alexei, who taught her how to drive.
The party was at The Russian Bear, a restaurant that serves all manner of Russian, Ukrainian, Georgian and other food and drink, as well as entertainment here in Houston.Liliya has worked hard - still does - and has made a real success of her life. She's basically taught herself English, and she pretty much supports her mom and daughter, and a new grandson, Dylan. She's amazing and also kind-hearted.
Vlad did not want to miss it. But it was a little too much. He woke up with some pain in his back, which is probably his kidney and has not been able to eat much nor really get out of bed. There's no fever right now. I'm keeping close watch; trying to decide whether he needs to go into the hospital now, rather than at 7:30 a.m. tomorrow. He doesn't want to go yet.
The gravity of this is starting to panic me a little because I don't feel ready for tomorrow. I need to prepare my questions.
Thanks for checking in.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
About this blog
If you're reading this, you know Vlad has been diagnosed with leukemia. We're using this blog to keep everybody updated on the latest news on his treatment.
He begins very intense chemotherapy on Monday. He'll be in Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital for between 3 and 4 weeks. It's most likely the first of two rounds of chemo.
We'll keep you posted on his progress here.
We are very hopeful. The odds are good he'll beat this because his doctors caught it early and he's stronger than the average leukemia patient. His age, young for this kind of leukemia, is also working for him.
We've heard from just about everyone we know. We appreciated the kind words, the good thoughts and prayers. Keep them coming!
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