Today was the end of my second week of radiation, with four weeks to go. Tomorrow will be the end of the second week of Temodar chemotherapy, but I only have radiation five days of each week. So far, both treatments have gone very well. I have some minor effects, but nothing of any seriousness. I got the results of last Friday's blood tests today, and so far my blood system is taking all the medical treatments very well. There are expectations that features like white blood cell and platelet levels will be reduced, but so far I am doing very well and am considerably above the minimal levels. So far so good is the best way to put it, and I intend for that to continue the next four weeks.
The weather has certainly changed to our benefit. Around 85 degrees was the max today, after Wednesday's high of 105. I do not want to experience that again -- the mere concept may play a huge role in travel I plan the next few years. And better yet last night -- the lows dropped into the 60's. They are predicted to drop into the 50's tonight -- hurrah! That will make sleeping ever so much easier.
Here's hoping you all have a great weekend. I'll report what we do to have a good one tomorrow and Sunday...
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Adapting to conditions...
Today we had a newly developed system of adapting to the high-heat weather pattern -- we went into the hospital way early -- Gary eating in the cafeteria before my afternoon Radiology session, then us sitting in the lobby and reading after my treatment. Did I mention it's air-conditioned in both places? While we were sitting in the lobby, a lady came wondering through giving everyone popsicles. We had also gotten popsicles handed out in the elevator when we were headed that way. We decided we prefered the cherry flavors to the orange ones, but were happy they were handing any out. We've also been eating at the wonderful Rhododendron Restaurant in the Inn at Virginia-Mason, which is about 75 feet from our hotel. The food is outstanding; the prices are quite reasonable; and they are air-conditioned! Unlike cooking supper in my un-air-conditioned apartment, which has been out of the question in the heat of the last few days.
Switching my radiology treatment to mid-afternoon has proven to be a real bonus. I can easily do work in the morning, before I apply chemotheraqpy and receive radiation. I eat more before taking the chemo, though I still stay at the "two hours without food" plan before taking it. Doing it after lunch seems to work much better for me than doing it after breakfast. The folks in Radiology supported the change, and today gave me the revised schedule though the end of my treatments. To say I am grateful to them for making the change a third of the way through would be an understatement.
Today proved to be significantly cooler than yesterday, which topped out at 105 degrees, though it was still in the high 90's. At this moment -- 9:30 pm -- it has dropped to 78 degrees, and is reportedly moving to the 60's tonight. What a climatic relief that will bring us! Sleep under those temperatures will be a major blessing, at least to those of us from cooler climates.
Things are going well; in fact better than a few days ago. Here's hoping things are going well in your lives too...
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
Switching my radiology treatment to mid-afternoon has proven to be a real bonus. I can easily do work in the morning, before I apply chemotheraqpy and receive radiation. I eat more before taking the chemo, though I still stay at the "two hours without food" plan before taking it. Doing it after lunch seems to work much better for me than doing it after breakfast. The folks in Radiology supported the change, and today gave me the revised schedule though the end of my treatments. To say I am grateful to them for making the change a third of the way through would be an understatement.
Today proved to be significantly cooler than yesterday, which topped out at 105 degrees, though it was still in the high 90's. At this moment -- 9:30 pm -- it has dropped to 78 degrees, and is reportedly moving to the 60's tonight. What a climatic relief that will bring us! Sleep under those temperatures will be a major blessing, at least to those of us from cooler climates.
Things are going well; in fact better than a few days ago. Here's hoping things are going well in your lives too...
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Afternoon service is a good thing...
Today I tried something different in Radiology. Rather than having my radiation between 9:00 am and 11:00 am, we scheduled it for 2:50 pm. I discussed this yesterday with the great crew that provides my treatment every day, and they were happy to make the switch for a couple of days to try it out. Wow -- was there a difference in today's outcomes, at least in how I felt all day. For one thing, I was able to do some work this morning, while I felt good from sleeping reasonably well during the night. I could also spread the morning pill-taking out over more time, which I think helped too. After they finished the radiation this afternoon, I asked them to see if I could be rescheduled to the afternoon for the rest of my treatments. They started looking to see if they could; I will get the answer tomorrow. They were very supportive and want to help me in any way they can, so I have hopes for the next four weeks.
Earlier this afternoon, our friend Elizabeth arrived for the day to visit with us. She had never met Gary, but was happy to do so -- in part because he's here helping me and in part because he set up the Texas pig hunt I went on with him in February. Yes, Elizabeth does love that free-ranging, organic pork I brought back to Ketchikan from Texas! And she went with us to Radiology and got to meet and visit with the folks there who do the work on me every day.
The only problem we're having here is that it is way hotter than could possibly be pleasant. Record-breaking may be a mild discussion of what's going on here in Seattle, and it's even warmer in Oregon and California. But it ran at least 101 degrees here today; the previous record was 95 degrees in 1971 -- according to the weather report on my laptop, anyway. In any event, I spent no more time outside than it took me to walk across the street and into the hospital, We did stay there for several hours after the treatment, though -- sitting in the nice seats in the lobby talking and reading newspapers. Did I mention it was air conditioned in there and not in the apartment?
So...if you want to hope for anything for us this week...hope for mysteriously cooler weather. A high of, say, 71 degrees would be very nice, particularly if the night-time temps ran around 57 degrees.
Today was a very good day, despite the heat. Thanks for your support and thoughts...
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
Earlier this afternoon, our friend Elizabeth arrived for the day to visit with us. She had never met Gary, but was happy to do so -- in part because he's here helping me and in part because he set up the Texas pig hunt I went on with him in February. Yes, Elizabeth does love that free-ranging, organic pork I brought back to Ketchikan from Texas! And she went with us to Radiology and got to meet and visit with the folks there who do the work on me every day.
The only problem we're having here is that it is way hotter than could possibly be pleasant. Record-breaking may be a mild discussion of what's going on here in Seattle, and it's even warmer in Oregon and California. But it ran at least 101 degrees here today; the previous record was 95 degrees in 1971 -- according to the weather report on my laptop, anyway. In any event, I spent no more time outside than it took me to walk across the street and into the hospital, We did stay there for several hours after the treatment, though -- sitting in the nice seats in the lobby talking and reading newspapers. Did I mention it was air conditioned in there and not in the apartment?
So...if you want to hope for anything for us this week...hope for mysteriously cooler weather. A high of, say, 71 degrees would be very nice, particularly if the night-time temps ran around 57 degrees.
Today was a very good day, despite the heat. Thanks for your support and thoughts...
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A good day a couple of ways...
Today was a shift back to a pretty good day, with an added bonus at the end of it. First and foremost, I woke up feeling pretty good -- in fact quite a bit better than the past few days. I had to get up at 5:00 am, because my radiation was scheduled for 9:20, which meant I had to finish eating by 6:20, and take all the medication that is to be taken with food by then. Then I had to wait two hours and take the chemotherapy. So this is a little cramped early in the morning, though I felt good throughout the process. After the radiology was over, I asked the crew about the value of rescheduling for the afternoon, at least to see if having the morning available for working and take the treatments toward the end of the afternoon might be worthwhile. They agreed, and one walked me over to his computer for planning it out. They had 2:50 pm available for the next two days, so agreed to reroute me to those times. This is great support on their part -- because now I can test it out. If it seems a lot better, I think we'll reschedule. I love working with those folks...they are greatly determined to help their patients, and it shows.
The other great thing that happened is that my cousin Jenny from Missouri came to visit. She is here for a conference, and was able to spend the afternoon and evening with Gary and I. She's a 7th & 8th grade science teacher in her town in North Missouri, and really enjoyed both the conference and a chance to catch up with me and what is going on, medically and otherwise. It was a grand visit, and by 8:30 or so it had cooled off enough that I could get a badly needed walking exercise by walking her to her hotel, and then walking back to my apartment.
So far, so good...off to bed...more info tomorrow.
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
The other great thing that happened is that my cousin Jenny from Missouri came to visit. She is here for a conference, and was able to spend the afternoon and evening with Gary and I. She's a 7th & 8th grade science teacher in her town in North Missouri, and really enjoyed both the conference and a chance to catch up with me and what is going on, medically and otherwise. It was a grand visit, and by 8:30 or so it had cooled off enough that I could get a badly needed walking exercise by walking her to her hotel, and then walking back to my apartment.
So far, so good...off to bed...more info tomorrow.
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
Monday, July 27, 2009
The beginning of hot days this week...
Today was the hottest day since I arrived here July 6th; somewhere in the mid-nineties. Being from Ketchikan, where very little summer heat breaks 70 degrees, this is more than a little tough on me under the best of conditions. Given that nearly every phase of my treatment here carries warnings about suffering from heat, it's even greater concern to me. I realized, when we came out after my 9:20 Radiology appointment, that having early radiation treatment, as scheduled this week, is a hidden bonus. While it was starting to get warm, it was still well below its high point this afternoon, so heading over to a close local grocery store and heading back to the apartment worked fine. An hour or two later, like last week, would have been problematic. Sometimes, scheduling works just fine for reasons that occured to no one at the time it was made...
The rest of today we spent inside, reading magazines and dinking on the computer. Actually, I did send several serious emails to people, all of whom have responded to me. So some work was done -- but mostly we just endured the heat. Much cooler in the apartment, so that was good.
We have company tomorrow and later in the week, so the next few reports should be more interesting. Hope all is well with all of you...
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
The rest of today we spent inside, reading magazines and dinking on the computer. Actually, I did send several serious emails to people, all of whom have responded to me. So some work was done -- but mostly we just endured the heat. Much cooler in the apartment, so that was good.
We have company tomorrow and later in the week, so the next few reports should be more interesting. Hope all is well with all of you...
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Sunday Sunday...
The title is a line from a song from the Sixties, though I can't remember the rest of it...but it fits today. Very quiet, though a bit hot. Gary and I did walk down to the Barnes and Noble store, carefully winding around to stay in the shade. Neither of us wanted a lot of sun today in the heat, and with my various medications I have to be really careful about it. One of the truly nice features of living near the top of the First Hill in Seattle, though, is that there is a significant availability of shade -- a crucial feature for some of us.
Barnes and Noble was very quiet and pleasant, with good food for lunch and lots of interesting books and magazines to scan. Didn't buy anything this time, at least in part because we became distracted by the notion there was a mall outside its "inside" doors. Sure enough -- though it only goes five floors up in the building, with an eight-screen movie theater on the top floor. Lots of interesting stores and restaurants too. I'm somehow guessing Faith and I will be back there a couple of times.
Now the weekend is over -- it has been a quiet break from action. Tomorrow it starts again, with daily radiation and several meetings in the hospital. And a meeting here in the evening from a Missouri cousin -- that will be a nice treat.
Things start early tomorrow, so off to bed I go.
Dennis & Faith, with Gary too.
Barnes and Noble was very quiet and pleasant, with good food for lunch and lots of interesting books and magazines to scan. Didn't buy anything this time, at least in part because we became distracted by the notion there was a mall outside its "inside" doors. Sure enough -- though it only goes five floors up in the building, with an eight-screen movie theater on the top floor. Lots of interesting stores and restaurants too. I'm somehow guessing Faith and I will be back there a couple of times.
Now the weekend is over -- it has been a quiet break from action. Tomorrow it starts again, with daily radiation and several meetings in the hospital. And a meeting here in the evening from a Missouri cousin -- that will be a nice treat.
Things start early tomorrow, so off to bed I go.
Dennis & Faith, with Gary too.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
The weekend starts...
This morning, the first day of the weekend, I had no real schedule facing me. While the various pills I take have certain time constraints between them, on the weekend days without radiation there is no constraint on when I start. So I could stay a little extra time in bed snoozing, which was pretty nice. And since it was a nice Saturday morning, I made tart cherry scones for breakfast, for a break from weekday practices. I had never made them before -- Faith introduced me to scones and has always made them for us. But I looked the "Sticky Fingers Bakery" bag over carefully, and determined that a product requiring adding 3/4 cup of water and stirring until mixed was one I could easily achieve. And the result proved my assumption to be so. Did I mention that they were really really good?
About ten o'clock this morning my friends Steve and Barbara from Utah arrrived -- they had been north of Bellingham for a few days -- to visit with us and see how I was doing. They enjoyed the scones too, and stayed long enough to go out to lunch and walk around looking at the neighborhood. I really enjoy it when friends come to visit -- it certainly helps me work through my habitation in downtown Seattle. And while Seattle is actually a pretty good city, it is still true that I am really not capable of living within any big city anywhere.
The other part of the weekend that is decidedly nice is that the nearby construction program takes it off, so the sound level reduces greatly during the daytime. This makes it considerably better for hanging out in the apartment and working on the laptop or reading books. Though I do have to say that the construction product is pretty interesting to watch sometimes, so that sort of makes up for the sound level.
Time to meander off to bed...hope all of you reading this are also having a good weekend.
Dennis & Faith, with Gary too
About ten o'clock this morning my friends Steve and Barbara from Utah arrrived -- they had been north of Bellingham for a few days -- to visit with us and see how I was doing. They enjoyed the scones too, and stayed long enough to go out to lunch and walk around looking at the neighborhood. I really enjoy it when friends come to visit -- it certainly helps me work through my habitation in downtown Seattle. And while Seattle is actually a pretty good city, it is still true that I am really not capable of living within any big city anywhere.
The other part of the weekend that is decidedly nice is that the nearby construction program takes it off, so the sound level reduces greatly during the daytime. This makes it considerably better for hanging out in the apartment and working on the laptop or reading books. Though I do have to say that the construction product is pretty interesting to watch sometimes, so that sort of makes up for the sound level.
Time to meander off to bed...hope all of you reading this are also having a good weekend.
Dennis & Faith, with Gary too
Friday, July 24, 2009
First week of radiation ends...
Today was the last day of my first week of radiation. So far so good -- the work is very precisely applied, and I'm not having much in the way of reaction to it, if any at all. There is so much going on in my life right now, with radiation, chemotherapy, several other pills being swallowed, and the effect of living in the heart of a city after eight years outside Ketchikan, that it's a little hard to tell. Since the radiation is given five days a week, Monday through Friday, I won't have it Saturday and Sunday. It will be interesting to see if I notice a difference in physical feeling by Sunday night -- that will be a good clue that I am being affected. So far, with everything else going on, it's a little hard to tell what is causing which feeling. One thing I do know -- we will be happy to see the technicians who are running my radiation on Monday. They are a grand set of young men and women -- all of them are in their early 30's; they are positive about their work; very happy to see us; and today gave us donuts when we left. And Gary loves visiting with them while they're applying the work to me.
After the work, we went up to Oncology to reschedule the appointment I apparently had with Dr. Otero on Tuesday, though I had no paperwork. They were very nice, and reset it for the 31st. Afterwards I went in for the first of many blood tests I will have -- at least one a week, to see how various treatments are affecting my blood system. Hopefully I will hear these results on Monday.
After that life was pretty peaceful -- lunch, then a really nice nap, and later a good dinner. My Mom and two good friends called later, and after dinner Gary and I took a nice walk in the cool evening air. The purpose, if such a thing actually applies to an evening walk, was to find the ATM in the Swedish Hospital. Which we did, and just like my credit union said, there is no fee for pulling cash. Which is a good thing, in big cities.
That pretty much finishes the day. Thanks for your support and thoughts...
Dennis and Faith, along with Gary
After the work, we went up to Oncology to reschedule the appointment I apparently had with Dr. Otero on Tuesday, though I had no paperwork. They were very nice, and reset it for the 31st. Afterwards I went in for the first of many blood tests I will have -- at least one a week, to see how various treatments are affecting my blood system. Hopefully I will hear these results on Monday.
After that life was pretty peaceful -- lunch, then a really nice nap, and later a good dinner. My Mom and two good friends called later, and after dinner Gary and I took a nice walk in the cool evening air. The purpose, if such a thing actually applies to an evening walk, was to find the ATM in the Swedish Hospital. Which we did, and just like my credit union said, there is no fee for pulling cash. Which is a good thing, in big cities.
That pretty much finishes the day. Thanks for your support and thoughts...
Dennis and Faith, along with Gary
Thursday, July 23, 2009
A quiet day...
Today was a quiet and peaceful day, cool outside with cloudy skies. My radiation was a touch delayed, because of a situation with another patient, but I was delayed no more than 15 minutes, and we were out in time for an early lunch at the hospital cafeteria. It was another part of the hospital I thought to show Gary while we waiting for my treatment, and after we came out from it, lunch there seemed like a good idea.
In the later afternoon we went to the library, after our naps, of course. Gary was quite impressed with it, if a trifle curious about its architecture. We will be spending a number of hours there next week, when the heat is expected to reach the 90's every day.
And that pretty much covers today -- it was pleasant and quiet, and we liked it just fine. I'll let you know tomorrow night how Friday goes, but I expect a similar day.
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
In the later afternoon we went to the library, after our naps, of course. Gary was quite impressed with it, if a trifle curious about its architecture. We will be spending a number of hours there next week, when the heat is expected to reach the 90's every day.
And that pretty much covers today -- it was pleasant and quiet, and we liked it just fine. I'll let you know tomorrow night how Friday goes, but I expect a similar day.
Dennis & Faith, with Gary
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
More friends visiting...
Treatment by the radiologists was scheduled for an hour later this morning, at 11:20, so this morning was more leisurely. I have decided this was a pretty good deal, or at least more relaxing. The radiation itself went like clockwork, without any noticeable effect today.
This afternoon friends Larry and Joanne stopped by to visit, and ended up doing us a big favor. We had a great visit, as they got to meet Gary for the first time and we shared lots of information and perspectives. When we mentioned our need to go to a Target and get a new air mattress for Gary, they agreeed to drive us there as they headed eastward to home. Great, and thanks, we said to them, planning to be dropped off and taking a taxi back here. So I got my MapQuest map and Gary got his Garmin, and we both got into the car with them. First thing we learned is the MapQuest and Garmin don't exactly agree on the best route to anywhere. This might have been a little confusing while driving the route to the Target store, variously described as six or more miles. And trust me, as we followed the directions down and out and around -- it was more than six miles.
But we found our way there, thanks to Larry and the Garmin, mostly, and Gary got his prize and I picked up three new shirts -- light cloth and double pockets. This means I can carry my cell phone in the pocket instead of on my belt -- much better, I think. And I have enough shirts to lower the rate of laundry, which is also a good accomplishment. Larry and Joanne calmly said they would be bringing us back to the hotel on their way out, which at least in my mind was way better than calling a cab. And I put the MapQuest printout back in my pocket and let it all go with Garmin. And yes, it reinforced my notion that I ought to buy one. Especially when we turned the wrong way and it rapidly readjusted and told us a new and suitable route to take.
Another grand day, with a great visit and several good phone calls from friends. It's time for me to go to bed and sleep toward tomorrow, so "good night and sleep well, all" and I will write more tomorrow evening.
Dennis & Faith, with help from Gary
This afternoon friends Larry and Joanne stopped by to visit, and ended up doing us a big favor. We had a great visit, as they got to meet Gary for the first time and we shared lots of information and perspectives. When we mentioned our need to go to a Target and get a new air mattress for Gary, they agreeed to drive us there as they headed eastward to home. Great, and thanks, we said to them, planning to be dropped off and taking a taxi back here. So I got my MapQuest map and Gary got his Garmin, and we both got into the car with them. First thing we learned is the MapQuest and Garmin don't exactly agree on the best route to anywhere. This might have been a little confusing while driving the route to the Target store, variously described as six or more miles. And trust me, as we followed the directions down and out and around -- it was more than six miles.
But we found our way there, thanks to Larry and the Garmin, mostly, and Gary got his prize and I picked up three new shirts -- light cloth and double pockets. This means I can carry my cell phone in the pocket instead of on my belt -- much better, I think. And I have enough shirts to lower the rate of laundry, which is also a good accomplishment. Larry and Joanne calmly said they would be bringing us back to the hotel on their way out, which at least in my mind was way better than calling a cab. And I put the MapQuest printout back in my pocket and let it all go with Garmin. And yes, it reinforced my notion that I ought to buy one. Especially when we turned the wrong way and it rapidly readjusted and told us a new and suitable route to take.
Another grand day, with a great visit and several good phone calls from friends. It's time for me to go to bed and sleep toward tomorrow, so "good night and sleep well, all" and I will write more tomorrow evening.
Dennis & Faith, with help from Gary
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Gary's first day...
Today was Gary's first day with me in Seattle, after arriving late yesterday evening. While I had discussed the apartment and its surroundings quite a bit, nothing really conveys the reality of living in a small apartment next to a major hospital where a large crew of construction workers is building an addition to the hospital, quite like waking up to experience it. All day long. Loudly. Interestingly enough, we live right above where they gather for their start-of-the-day meetings, so we get to watch and listen as they prepare for their labors.
Gary also got to watch me meander my way through the myriad of pills I have to take every morning, starting shortly after I get up and eat something, with various others at certain times through the morning, culminating with the Temodar that is my chemotherapy. I have to take it two hours after eating and one hour before radiation. All this is very specific, and requires some thoughtful scheduling. Fortunately for me, Faith wrote all this up before she went home Saturday, so it's pretty simple for me to keep track of.
And he came with me to Radiology and met all the staff who provides the treatment every morning. They are a grand set of young technicians, who seem to enjoy helping their patients and spending time with them. After the 15 minutes or so that I was strapped down under my mask (look back a few blogs if you want to see a picture), we met with Dr. B, who runs the oncology radiology branch. He's a great guy to meet with, very positive and supportive. He was very happy with how things are going so far, as am I, and plans to meet with me every Tuesday to see how everything is going.
After all the medical work was done, we returned to the apartment for lunch (BLT, except we used spinach instead of lettuce. Yum!), then took naps for a good bit of the afternoon. Hey, it was too hot and the sun was too bright to go outside. After it cooled down and the sun was at a sufficient angle to give us shade walking, we hiked down to QFC Grocery to buy some stuff we needed for meals. This time we took a rolling carrier for duffle bags, that I use on airplanes mostly, and found that it's a great way to bring heavy groceries back from a store, at least when you don't have a car to drive.
So that's today's events...pretty nice all the way around. Hope all of you are having good days too.
Dennis & Faith, and Gary too for a while...
Gary also got to watch me meander my way through the myriad of pills I have to take every morning, starting shortly after I get up and eat something, with various others at certain times through the morning, culminating with the Temodar that is my chemotherapy. I have to take it two hours after eating and one hour before radiation. All this is very specific, and requires some thoughtful scheduling. Fortunately for me, Faith wrote all this up before she went home Saturday, so it's pretty simple for me to keep track of.
And he came with me to Radiology and met all the staff who provides the treatment every morning. They are a grand set of young technicians, who seem to enjoy helping their patients and spending time with them. After the 15 minutes or so that I was strapped down under my mask (look back a few blogs if you want to see a picture), we met with Dr. B, who runs the oncology radiology branch. He's a great guy to meet with, very positive and supportive. He was very happy with how things are going so far, as am I, and plans to meet with me every Tuesday to see how everything is going.
After all the medical work was done, we returned to the apartment for lunch (BLT, except we used spinach instead of lettuce. Yum!), then took naps for a good bit of the afternoon. Hey, it was too hot and the sun was too bright to go outside. After it cooled down and the sun was at a sufficient angle to give us shade walking, we hiked down to QFC Grocery to buy some stuff we needed for meals. This time we took a rolling carrier for duffle bags, that I use on airplanes mostly, and found that it's a great way to bring heavy groceries back from a store, at least when you don't have a car to drive.
So that's today's events...pretty nice all the way around. Hope all of you are having good days too.
Dennis & Faith, and Gary too for a while...
Monday, July 20, 2009
First day of treatment...
Today was the first day of treatment. I rose at 6:00 am, because I had to eat breakfast and take the first set of pills by 7:00 am. I can't eat for two hours before taking the chemotherapy, and I have to take it an hour before radiation -- which was scheduled for 10:10 am. Thus...this whole effort has become something of a step-by-step schedule. The nice part of it is that I was back in the apartment fixing tomato soup for lunch by 11:00 am.
On the first day, I have no effects from either process. I have 41 days to go, and it is clearly uncertain what effects either or both may have on me. It is likely that there will be some, but every individual varies, so only time will tell. I am shooting for the least, of course... :)>.
In the good news category -- I found a Trader Joe's market close enough to walk to on the Internet yesterday, and walked down there this afternoon, once it had cooled off enough to make it feel good to me. Being from Ketchikan where the average summer temperature runs around 65 degrees does make it a bit tough here when it's running 20 degrees warmer, so I prefer morning and evening jaunts. I'd actually like it a lot if it rained more, but so far that doesn't seem to likely.
My friend Gary from Colorado just called; he's in a taxi headed here from SeaTac Airport and should arrive in a few minutes. So I'll finish up and wait for him to arrive. The next couple of weeks should be fun!
Dennis & Faith
On the first day, I have no effects from either process. I have 41 days to go, and it is clearly uncertain what effects either or both may have on me. It is likely that there will be some, but every individual varies, so only time will tell. I am shooting for the least, of course... :)>.
In the good news category -- I found a Trader Joe's market close enough to walk to on the Internet yesterday, and walked down there this afternoon, once it had cooled off enough to make it feel good to me. Being from Ketchikan where the average summer temperature runs around 65 degrees does make it a bit tough here when it's running 20 degrees warmer, so I prefer morning and evening jaunts. I'd actually like it a lot if it rained more, but so far that doesn't seem to likely.
My friend Gary from Colorado just called; he's in a taxi headed here from SeaTac Airport and should arrive in a few minutes. So I'll finish up and wait for him to arrive. The next couple of weeks should be fun!
Dennis & Faith
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Last day before treatments...
Today was the last day before my new life begins...with intensive treatment to kill the cancer left in my brain beginning tomorrow morning. Chemo comes first seven days a week, followed by radiation each morning Monday through Friday. Both are carefully designed to be focussed where they are needed. I'm more than ready for this work to begin...in point of fact I would have liked it to start a week ago. But the Dr's and staff have been carefully planning and measuring and preparing, particularly for the radiology, and it is finally time to begin. I'll let you know how it affects the rest of my body, but what it will do inside my skull is really all that matters at this moment.
Today was a quiet and peaceful day. Lyndell and I did our laundry, then walked down to the library and spent a peaceful afternoon there. Her friend is picking her up this evening, and they're heading east for Montana, South Dakota, Minnesota and other points tomorrow morning. Her visit with us has been grand; next time we plan to visit her in her upcoming new home in North Carolina while she completes her Master's Degree there.
Thank you all for your support and thoughts, and all the love and caring you show...it makes a difference in our lives.
Today was a quiet and peaceful day. Lyndell and I did our laundry, then walked down to the library and spent a peaceful afternoon there. Her friend is picking her up this evening, and they're heading east for Montana, South Dakota, Minnesota and other points tomorrow morning. Her visit with us has been grand; next time we plan to visit her in her upcoming new home in North Carolina while she completes her Master's Degree there.
Thank you all for your support and thoughts, and all the love and caring you show...it makes a difference in our lives.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
New helpers for a little while...
Faith returned to Ketchikan this morning, to take care of our house, our pets and her work up there for a couple of weeks. She showed me how to write for this blog, and called from home once she got there. I talked to Kona, who misses me almost as much as I miss her. While I wish I could be home too, I know it will be good for Faith to spend some time there before she comes back to spent the last part of my treatments helping and supporting me.
Fortunately, my niece Lyndell came in Thursday, and is staying through tomorrow. We walked down to see "Bite of Seattle" at the Seattle Center today, then went into the Science Center to see the displays and exhibits there. Pretty good food, and interesting things to look out. That, with a good walk that made me feel in better shape, made for a great day.
My friend Gary is coming in Monday for a couple of weeks -- so I've had and will continue to have good company and will have plenty of support and assistance, if I need it. Monday I start radiation and chemotherapy, so sooner or later I will know what kind of help, if any, I need. Key point is everything that's done to me will help kill remnants of cancer, and that is the most important action right now. I plan to kill it until it's dead, and then just keep killing it.
This is my first Blog effort, but I'll be keeping it up while Faith is home. Hope you enjoy my views on things...and thanks for your support and thoughts.
Dennis & Faith
Fortunately, my niece Lyndell came in Thursday, and is staying through tomorrow. We walked down to see "Bite of Seattle" at the Seattle Center today, then went into the Science Center to see the displays and exhibits there. Pretty good food, and interesting things to look out. That, with a good walk that made me feel in better shape, made for a great day.
My friend Gary is coming in Monday for a couple of weeks -- so I've had and will continue to have good company and will have plenty of support and assistance, if I need it. Monday I start radiation and chemotherapy, so sooner or later I will know what kind of help, if any, I need. Key point is everything that's done to me will help kill remnants of cancer, and that is the most important action right now. I plan to kill it until it's dead, and then just keep killing it.
This is my first Blog effort, but I'll be keeping it up while Faith is home. Hope you enjoy my views on things...and thanks for your support and thoughts.
Dennis & Faith
Friday, July 17, 2009
A Little Alaska in Seattle
Today was one of those really warm days where you searched for the shade at each intersection before moving into the hot sun. Us Alaskans were dripping! Lyndell thought it was pleasantly cool (but she is from Missouri) Dennis and Lyndell went off to explore the Central Library and were amazed.
In the afternoon Dennis received the final work up (two x rays with his mask on) to adjust and orient the mask related to his radiation treatments. He met the team of radiation techs that will be implementing the radiation oncology perscription five days a week. This is IMRT, or intensity-modulated radiation therapy. That is where CT scans images are used to design a unique treatment regimen for each patient. Radiation, along with the oral chemotherapy Temodar, begin on Monday. His schedule is very busy and intense in the mornings, which should work out well for resting and doing activities in the afternoon. Everyone there was really helpful down to taking requests for music during the approximate 20 minute procedure.
For dinner at Chez Neill the pirate made grilled Alaskan salmon. The entire meal was an epicurean delight as the photo suggests. More later, Dennis and Faith
In the afternoon Dennis received the final work up (two x rays with his mask on) to adjust and orient the mask related to his radiation treatments. He met the team of radiation techs that will be implementing the radiation oncology perscription five days a week. This is IMRT, or intensity-modulated radiation therapy. That is where CT scans images are used to design a unique treatment regimen for each patient. Radiation, along with the oral chemotherapy Temodar, begin on Monday. His schedule is very busy and intense in the mornings, which should work out well for resting and doing activities in the afternoon. Everyone there was really helpful down to taking requests for music during the approximate 20 minute procedure.
For dinner at Chez Neill the pirate made grilled Alaskan salmon. The entire meal was an epicurean delight as the photo suggests. More later, Dennis and Faith
Arrivals
Yesterday was marked by lots of arrivals. First, around noon, the chemotherapy packages we had been waiting for since Tuesday arrived, in two parcels and as well as gifts of headscarves from friends and pictures of Missouri (lillies from the garden and new babies) from Dennis's mom. Later in the day Dennis's neice Lyndell arrived to spend several days.
We decided to take her out for a birthday dinner, a plan we'd been hatching for awhile. It was fun to talk about her graduate school move to North Carolina and news of the family. It was fun to go out to dinner. Tomorrow, Dennis and Lyndell go and explore the library while I get work projects done. Talk with you later, Faith and Dennis
We decided to take her out for a birthday dinner, a plan we'd been hatching for awhile. It was fun to talk about her graduate school move to North Carolina and news of the family. It was fun to go out to dinner. Tomorrow, Dennis and Lyndell go and explore the library while I get work projects done. Talk with you later, Faith and Dennis
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Negotiating the Maze
OK, it was 84 degrees today. After both of us working at our computers and respective desks we realized it was 5 pm and we had no air conditioning. It was getting stuffy and there was no breeze. Also the wifi bounced in and out like a rubber ball in a handball court. ARGGH matey! Tomorrow there are no appointments-we'll go to the library!
The day started out with an emphasis on chemotherapy, and ended up with the filling of prescriptions. It turns out getting chemotherapy drugs through the mail is quite a maze. Luckily we diverted where the drug company was going to send the drugs (Ketchikan, Alaska) to where we need the drugs (Seattle, Washington). Phew! That would have screwed up the schedule as they say. Does anyone have a Marauder's Map a la HarryPotter to help us get through the end of this week?
While we were wading through this logistical morass Dr. Primrose appeared-none other than the brain surgeon that operated on Dennis 4 weeks ago to the day. Dennis quickly removed his pirate chapeau and let the surgeon reflect on his handiwork. He declared Dennis looking well and the scar healing well.
Tomorrow we look forward to the arrival of Dennis's neice who is about to embark on her Master's program in marine science. Until then, Faith and Dennis
The day started out with an emphasis on chemotherapy, and ended up with the filling of prescriptions. It turns out getting chemotherapy drugs through the mail is quite a maze. Luckily we diverted where the drug company was going to send the drugs (Ketchikan, Alaska) to where we need the drugs (Seattle, Washington). Phew! That would have screwed up the schedule as they say. Does anyone have a Marauder's Map a la HarryPotter to help us get through the end of this week?
While we were wading through this logistical morass Dr. Primrose appeared-none other than the brain surgeon that operated on Dennis 4 weeks ago to the day. Dennis quickly removed his pirate chapeau and let the surgeon reflect on his handiwork. He declared Dennis looking well and the scar healing well.
Tomorrow we look forward to the arrival of Dennis's neice who is about to embark on her Master's program in marine science. Until then, Faith and Dennis
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Discovering the Library
Today Dennis began his day with cognitive tests that including recalling or remembering, mapping or spatial tests and word tests. Then we heard that the actual radiation and chemotherapy would start on Monday, so we took the late afternoon off, walked to a fabric store at Pike Market, bought vegetables and sweet peas and had ice cream. It was so crowded and smelly that we didn't buy seafood, it just didn't look appealing. We took off uphill...
The sun was beginning to heat up the afternoon. Seeking the shady side of the street, we walked back to Spring Street and decided to explore Seattle's Central Library.
Wow! Cool and quiet, this enormous 11 tiered glass layered library is very dramatic rising out of the concrete of downtown. Inside it is swarming with hundreds of people reading, working on the internet, doing research, having coffee at the cafe-it is like a miniature town in a city. The librarians we met were so nice and friendly, and invited us to join on a three month basis-and since Dennis was here for medical reasons, his fee was waived! So we explored all the way to the top floor, which gave me vertigo a little. You could see all the way out to the harbor and towards the stadiums. There was a history archive, and a special collections area-and on the top floor were administrative offices. We were excited to learn there are tours coming up, and one just on the architecture. Dennis has already made plans to return. The next two days are more meetings and probably more tests, the arrival of family and friends looms near on the horizon. Until tomorrow, when it is supposed to be 80 degrees, Faith and Dennis
The sun was beginning to heat up the afternoon. Seeking the shady side of the street, we walked back to Spring Street and decided to explore Seattle's Central Library.
Wow! Cool and quiet, this enormous 11 tiered glass layered library is very dramatic rising out of the concrete of downtown. Inside it is swarming with hundreds of people reading, working on the internet, doing research, having coffee at the cafe-it is like a miniature town in a city. The librarians we met were so nice and friendly, and invited us to join on a three month basis-and since Dennis was here for medical reasons, his fee was waived! So we explored all the way to the top floor, which gave me vertigo a little. You could see all the way out to the harbor and towards the stadiums. There was a history archive, and a special collections area-and on the top floor were administrative offices. We were excited to learn there are tours coming up, and one just on the architecture. Dennis has already made plans to return. The next two days are more meetings and probably more tests, the arrival of family and friends looms near on the horizon. Until tomorrow, when it is supposed to be 80 degrees, Faith and Dennis
Monday, July 13, 2009
Dennis accepted into Clinical Trial!
Today was a day of meetings and more tests, including an EKG (which Dennis passed with flying colors) and lots of lab tests. These were in preparation for the standard treatment of radiation and chemotherapy, hopefully to begin soon. Dennis has also offered to do cognitive tests, which begin tomorrow.
The Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) primary brain tumor removed on June15th was deemed acceptable by the clinical study researchers today! This means Dennis will be part of the clinical trial to test the application of an infused drug commonly called avastin along with standard treatement against the cancer cells remaining in his brain. It is a double blind study, and we will not know whether he is in the avastin arm or the placebo arm. However, he is one step closer, and is looking forward to getting started.
We walked about 2.5 miles round trip today. I lagged on the hills, but Dennis has a stronger heart and legs and zoomed up the hills. Thank goodness the weather was cool and foggy. It appears to be warming up, with some blue sky peeking out this evening. Talk to you tomorrow, Faith and Dennis
The Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) primary brain tumor removed on June15th was deemed acceptable by the clinical study researchers today! This means Dennis will be part of the clinical trial to test the application of an infused drug commonly called avastin along with standard treatement against the cancer cells remaining in his brain. It is a double blind study, and we will not know whether he is in the avastin arm or the placebo arm. However, he is one step closer, and is looking forward to getting started.
We walked about 2.5 miles round trip today. I lagged on the hills, but Dennis has a stronger heart and legs and zoomed up the hills. Thank goodness the weather was cool and foggy. It appears to be warming up, with some blue sky peeking out this evening. Talk to you tomorrow, Faith and Dennis
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Stormy Sunday
The rainclouds were brewing last night as the red to orange sunset came over Camano Island. It was very quiet and peaceful. When we departed today for all points south we were rested and delightfully satiated from a tremendous breakfast created by our hostess Melissa. She even holds a cooking school in her home when not a B&B. We stuffed our now frozen raspberries in a cooler with blue ice and headed back to the mainland. We loaded the car with groceries (who wants to try and park in the city??) and headed for points south, including Issaquah near Lake Sammamish. It rained while we were inside the store and when we walked back out to the car it really felt like home-cool, foggy, and about 60 degrees.
We hear from our Alaskan friends, however, that has been really warm and dry on our island, and there have been some wildfire starts. Some areas are getting smoke from wildfires from the Interior.
Our dog Kona and the cats have been doing fine under the watchful eye of our pet parent Ardath; Kona even panted on the phone to me. So far Kona's pancreatitis has not returned, and she seems comfortable. Thank goodness...
Escaping the city for an island was a great idea, we might try to do that again if Dennis is feeling well enough. As we walked back to our little apartment from the rental car place in downtown, we passed tons of convention goers leaving the convention center (These were veterinarians). We got excited about conventions there-what is there was a gem and mineral show in town? A hunting dog show? An outdoor expo? We fantasized about the opportunities...unfortunately, there was nothing in July and August except advanced issues of foreclosures, critical financial mistakes during divorces, and federal aquisition regulation "BOOTCAMP". Oh boy, that convention calendar sounds like a total snoozer.
The seagulls were "laughing" at us as we climbed the last hill to our place. We are both tired but in a good way and Dennis is ready to face what the week will bring. Hope to have news tomorrow, Faith and Dennis
We hear from our Alaskan friends, however, that has been really warm and dry on our island, and there have been some wildfire starts. Some areas are getting smoke from wildfires from the Interior.
Our dog Kona and the cats have been doing fine under the watchful eye of our pet parent Ardath; Kona even panted on the phone to me. So far Kona's pancreatitis has not returned, and she seems comfortable. Thank goodness...
Escaping the city for an island was a great idea, we might try to do that again if Dennis is feeling well enough. As we walked back to our little apartment from the rental car place in downtown, we passed tons of convention goers leaving the convention center (These were veterinarians). We got excited about conventions there-what is there was a gem and mineral show in town? A hunting dog show? An outdoor expo? We fantasized about the opportunities...unfortunately, there was nothing in July and August except advanced issues of foreclosures, critical financial mistakes during divorces, and federal aquisition regulation "BOOTCAMP". Oh boy, that convention calendar sounds like a total snoozer.
The seagulls were "laughing" at us as we climbed the last hill to our place. We are both tired but in a good way and Dennis is ready to face what the week will bring. Hope to have news tomorrow, Faith and Dennis
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Camano Island Escape
Today we escaped the city by walking down to a car rental in town and getting a little car. It was an exciting and wonderful day. Heading north from the city we decided to take a backcountry detour. This led us to a wonderful lane with fresh red raspberries along it. Dennis pulled over and we picked about a gallon while visiting on the phone with friends. It was wonderful, and yummy! Dennis even found some salmonberries. Then it was on along the correct road to the town of LaConner, except that we stopped at SnowGoose produce stand and bought groceries and the largest homemade cones with coffee ice cream around. Ladden with goodies for the larder we explored the countryside and ended up at the Camano Blossom B&B on Camano Island. The island is just north of Whidbey Island, has two state parks and about 25,000 people living here -the place is so different than the San Juans and is veritably all residential. But with a peaceful view of Mt Baker from the front porch, a peaceful garden and lovely birdsong it was great respite from downtown Seattle. Talk to you tomorrow, Faith and Dennis
Friday, July 10, 2009
Ready for the Weekend
The weather is warming up here, and so is the progress towards treatment beginning. Today we learned that the chemotherapy temodar was requested through the health insurance. We still have not heard if Dennis is part of the clinical trial. We desperately hope we'll hear Monday.
In an effort to walk "out" the leg tiredness that affects Dennis after taking steroids we walked to the local thrift store and bought stainless steel cookpots, a really nice pyrex bowl (jello here we come) and a brand new waffle iron! Woohoo! It seems to help to walk, and it's good exercise.
The 24 hour campfire was finally back up and Dennis connected back in to catch up with all of his buddies. I am slowly sending thank you notes out-very slowly....
Yesterday I told you about the mask created just for Dennis to keep his head immobile during the radiation treatments. The lady that created the mask was an expert. With "Get over it"from the Eagles blaring in the CT chamber, she soaked a netlike piece of white plastic in hot water, it turned clear, then she fitted it over the newly shorn Dennis face. Then she marked it with key laser drawn points and took lots of CT scan pictures. I sat outside the chamber of course, but it was wild watching the red "on"light outside the chamber and hearing the Eagles singing over it. Phew, this going to be a wild ride.
Speaking of wild rides, we are escaping the city noise and finding a quiet island to overnight on Saturday. I think it will be good for our souls and our psyche. The weather is supposed to be in the low 70s. We'll be back in touch Sunday, Faith and Dennis
Thursday, July 9, 2009
The Mask
Today was quite a day, and it included (ta-dah) another haircut! Dennis is now very completely shorn, in part to accomodate the production of a radiation mask. Rather than protection, the mask is for stabilization when he has his radiation treatments.
After the first mask was not a good fit we walked down the hill and Lan did wonders to remove that bulky beard. He's lookin good!
It is possible Dennis will hear about being in the clinical study by tomorrow. That will be a relief. Dennis is ready to begin, and he is determined to fight as hard as he can.
Several friends came for a visit, and this was particularly nice. The sun came out at the end of the day and we felt like we'd accomplished lots. Best, Faith and Dennis
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Waiting Wednesday
Today is a cloudy and cool; it is 'waiting Wednesday'. Dennis's simulation appointment is tomorrow. We both worked at our respective job projects today, burning up the internet and the phone lines. We made some improvements to our telecommunications, so we can walk and talk. Stands with Phone returns...It helps to have your hands free if you are working on the computer at the same time.
We are slowly writing cards to everyone who was so kind to us these first three weeks. If you do not receive one it is probably because I am falling down on the job and forgot to bring your address! Believe us when we say we appreciate each little tidbit of help and prayer.
I think we are both getting our hill muscles in our legs, walking downtown and then back up hill to our apartment. While we thought it looked like rain it never did. Dennis decided to cook tonight, and ended up feeding me muledeer buck steaks from Montana (This meal gives new meaning to the Rachel Ray words of Yum-O). We talked about me going to visit the area around Fort Benton this fall if we can manage it. We heard that we'll have two friends visiting tomorrow, it promises to be quite a day. Talk with you soon, Faith and Dennis
We are slowly writing cards to everyone who was so kind to us these first three weeks. If you do not receive one it is probably because I am falling down on the job and forgot to bring your address! Believe us when we say we appreciate each little tidbit of help and prayer.
I think we are both getting our hill muscles in our legs, walking downtown and then back up hill to our apartment. While we thought it looked like rain it never did. Dennis decided to cook tonight, and ended up feeding me muledeer buck steaks from Montana (This meal gives new meaning to the Rachel Ray words of Yum-O). We talked about me going to visit the area around Fort Benton this fall if we can manage it. We heard that we'll have two friends visiting tomorrow, it promises to be quite a day. Talk with you soon, Faith and Dennis
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Settling In
The Seattle weather has cooled off, and there were signficant clouds today. Most locals were chilly, but we loved it, because it reminded us of home.
Today Dennis met with two of the doctors on his team, who both pronounced that he looked very well and improved from his last visit with them. He also met with the community contact for the clinical trial and the logistical organizer who is assisting with helping us with travel and lodging. We should be notified by the end of the week if Dennis has been accepted into the clinical trial which tests the efficacy of the drug avastin as a component of initial treatment of GBMs (the type of cancer Dennis has is glioblastoma multiforme.)
There is a signifcant amount of testing ahead to prepare for the radiation, including a simulation of the radiation procedure and the creation of a special mask that is worn to protect the head while having the pinpointed procedure.
We learned more about the Temedar chemo today.... it is taken orally right before the radiation each day. It actually "snips" the genetic information in rapidly reproducing cancer cells at the tumor site, disallowing them from surviving.
At the end of the day we decided it was time to find the grocery store. A big thank you to our local QFC, who bagged up groceries and drove them back to our hotel for us. We celebrated by making homemade spaghetti with Montana mule deer and Dennis's fantastic garlic bread. All in all, a good day, but we are both tired; talk with you tomorrow, Faith and Dennis
Today Dennis met with two of the doctors on his team, who both pronounced that he looked very well and improved from his last visit with them. He also met with the community contact for the clinical trial and the logistical organizer who is assisting with helping us with travel and lodging. We should be notified by the end of the week if Dennis has been accepted into the clinical trial which tests the efficacy of the drug avastin as a component of initial treatment of GBMs (the type of cancer Dennis has is glioblastoma multiforme.)
There is a signifcant amount of testing ahead to prepare for the radiation, including a simulation of the radiation procedure and the creation of a special mask that is worn to protect the head while having the pinpointed procedure.
We learned more about the Temedar chemo today.... it is taken orally right before the radiation each day. It actually "snips" the genetic information in rapidly reproducing cancer cells at the tumor site, disallowing them from surviving.
At the end of the day we decided it was time to find the grocery store. A big thank you to our local QFC, who bagged up groceries and drove them back to our hotel for us. We celebrated by making homemade spaghetti with Montana mule deer and Dennis's fantastic garlic bread. All in all, a good day, but we are both tired; talk with you tomorrow, Faith and Dennis
Monday, July 6, 2009
A Seattle Place
We flew off Revilla Island and landed one and a half hours later in Seattle. We are now ensconced in Casa Neill on the 5th floor of the Baroness Hotel directly across the street from Virginia Mason Hospital, smack dab in the center of the First Hill neigborhood. It is a city full of noise, which will take getting used to. The apartment is comfortable, and has a sofabed for visitors. Tomorrow Dennis has his first two appointments with the nuero oncology team.
We were sad to leave our animals, home, and garden. Kona refused to stay in the kitchen, and ventured out onto the front steps as we tried to move our bags to the car. She and I had had a talk earlier in the morning as I brushed her. We hope she stays healthy so that she can help Dennis stay healthy in 55 days.
Excellent news from Ketchikan tonight-the USDA Forest Service received the best performance award in the July 4th parade! Yahoo! Great job everyone! Talk with you tommorow, Faith and Dennis
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Headed South
We are headed "south" tomorrow-in Alaska speak that means off island and to the lower 48.
Our last night at home (for Dennis 55 days) is really bittersweet. It was beautiful weather, and Kona and I got in some gardening therapy in by going to the nursery. We spoke to or had visits with many family and friends, who had also had good 4ths in their own ways. We packed the last box of stuff to send to Seattle tomorrow morning. Kona and I went to the Frog Pond, a special place to walk in the summer-and I picked salmonberries that were just turning ripe We had dinner on the deck again, this time including our own steamed rainbow chard. Kona carefully observed every bite of the salad we were eating and was disappointed there was little meat. The sunset was pink as the robins called way into the twilight anda few errant fireworks were let off.
We are ready to embark on this next part of the journey, and no matter where is takes us, the comfort of home will linger and draw us back when we have beat this cancer into the ground. The next time you hear from us we'll be in our apartment in Seattle. Cheers, Faith and Dennis
Our last night at home (for Dennis 55 days) is really bittersweet. It was beautiful weather, and Kona and I got in some gardening therapy in by going to the nursery. We spoke to or had visits with many family and friends, who had also had good 4ths in their own ways. We packed the last box of stuff to send to Seattle tomorrow morning. Kona and I went to the Frog Pond, a special place to walk in the summer-and I picked salmonberries that were just turning ripe We had dinner on the deck again, this time including our own steamed rainbow chard. Kona carefully observed every bite of the salad we were eating and was disappointed there was little meat. The sunset was pink as the robins called way into the twilight anda few errant fireworks were let off.
We are ready to embark on this next part of the journey, and no matter where is takes us, the comfort of home will linger and draw us back when we have beat this cancer into the ground. The next time you hear from us we'll be in our apartment in Seattle. Cheers, Faith and Dennis
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Independence Day
How we love a parade! And the sun shown! In Ketchikan it always starts with a flyover by Eichner's helicopter towing a ginormous American flag. Yahoo! The look on people's faces when they see Smokey Bear, and marvel as Sammy Salmon and Woodsy Owl wave at them...especially thousands of kids. That makes the Fourth for me... Dennis returned to driving and waited at the federal building for the parade to pass. He was definitely in his element and felt good all day.
Maybe it was that therapuetic apple pie from St. John's-it just tasted all that much better this year. There was a classic car show and above the parking lot bald eagles reviewed the human shenanigans, including local kids diving into Thomas Basin for tourist money. It was nice to be with friends and hang out- we returned to have our supper on the deck-luckily there were no insects to speak of. Fireworks begin late tonight from the Pennock Island barge. Yippee!
Tomorrow we pack. I am finishing a quilt for a friend, so I had better get to it. Hope your holiday was as fun, love from us, Faith and Dennis
Maybe it was that therapuetic apple pie from St. John's-it just tasted all that much better this year. There was a classic car show and above the parking lot bald eagles reviewed the human shenanigans, including local kids diving into Thomas Basin for tourist money. It was nice to be with friends and hang out- we returned to have our supper on the deck-luckily there were no insects to speak of. Fireworks begin late tonight from the Pennock Island barge. Yippee!
Tomorrow we pack. I am finishing a quilt for a friend, so I had better get to it. Hope your holiday was as fun, love from us, Faith and Dennis
Friday, July 3, 2009
Summertime
Well, it's about 65 degrees at 8:30 pm in this island world-was in the 70's today for sure. Dennis comes in from walks with wild strawberries or salmonberries. Kona snoozes peacefully by the screen door. Fireworks are heard in the distance as the " red sky at night, sailor's delight" takes over the sky.
Today we shipped 56 pounds of frozen food to Seattle on Alaska Airlines freight. They promptly called us a few hours later and let us know it was in the freezer at the airport in Seattle. We'll pick it up Monday on the way in to the hotel. It may seem silly, but we are convinced our own healthy fish and game meat will support Dennis's recovery. Dennis seems to be more relaxed, feeling good and eating well. We already have appointments with the nuero oncologist and radiation oncologist Tuesday.
It promises to be an awesome Fourth of July. I am looking forward to marching in the parade, and Dennis is looking forward to rootbeer floats. And, no, we don't have the skinny on why Alaska's Governor stepped down. Happy Independence Day everyone! from Faith and Dennis
Today we shipped 56 pounds of frozen food to Seattle on Alaska Airlines freight. They promptly called us a few hours later and let us know it was in the freezer at the airport in Seattle. We'll pick it up Monday on the way in to the hotel. It may seem silly, but we are convinced our own healthy fish and game meat will support Dennis's recovery. Dennis seems to be more relaxed, feeling good and eating well. We already have appointments with the nuero oncologist and radiation oncologist Tuesday.
It promises to be an awesome Fourth of July. I am looking forward to marching in the parade, and Dennis is looking forward to rootbeer floats. And, no, we don't have the skinny on why Alaska's Governor stepped down. Happy Independence Day everyone! from Faith and Dennis
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Dennis Won; Tylenol Zero
It's 10:45 pm and the house on the hill is quiet with the sounds of sleepy cats, and old brown dog and a snoring pirate. That is, except yours truely, who insists on letting the blogosphere know that a bright orange moon hangs outside the open window. Today Dennis commented on the bright orb in the sky...could this mean (a hush falls over southeast) sun on the 4th of July parade? Unbelievable!
It was Dennis won (a pun in honor of the Neillster) Tylenol zero today-mark one down for the pirate, who has become the master of healing. Dennis walks Kona, then leaves her at the house in the am and walks two more miles-he is beginning to get his strength back each day as he plans more walking as we return to First Hill this Monday. He is gearing up for that goat tag....
Tomorrow we ship a cooler of strength building food-venison and fish, mostly-so we can pick it up at the Seattle airport Monday. Dennis is an Alaska Airlines "known shipper" which comes in handy for 7 week trips away from home.
I am attempting to chip away at the work that has piled up at the office, keep the banana slugs out of the garden, nurse animals, and work on quilt projects. Salmonberries are beginning to ripen here, I may sneak out tomorrow to look at how my favorite places are doing. Until then, Faith and Dennis
It was Dennis won (a pun in honor of the Neillster) Tylenol zero today-mark one down for the pirate, who has become the master of healing. Dennis walks Kona, then leaves her at the house in the am and walks two more miles-he is beginning to get his strength back each day as he plans more walking as we return to First Hill this Monday. He is gearing up for that goat tag....
Tomorrow we ship a cooler of strength building food-venison and fish, mostly-so we can pick it up at the Seattle airport Monday. Dennis is an Alaska Airlines "known shipper" which comes in handy for 7 week trips away from home.
I am attempting to chip away at the work that has piled up at the office, keep the banana slugs out of the garden, nurse animals, and work on quilt projects. Salmonberries are beginning to ripen here, I may sneak out tomorrow to look at how my favorite places are doing. Until then, Faith and Dennis
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
July Begins
Mileposts help you guide your progress, and for Dennis these are important. This morning Dennis realized he had not used an ice pack last night. While there is still swelling at the incision site, it slowly goes down and his pirate headgear is beginning to approach a fashion statement. Complete with sunglasses, and you have a rather suave biker look. He even got some consulting work in today! See the pirate without his parrot to left.
Anyway, it was Minnie cat's day to feel bad. Having lost two pounds since May blood tests showed thyroid levels 5 times higher that of normal. So now Minnie and Maxie are on thyroid controlling pills. Although Kona manages to nose the cats into line most of the time, she just nuzzled Minnie today. Everyone here is a little raw still.
July4th approaches. For Dennis and myself this has always meant parades and pies and rootbeer floats and rubber duck races in Ketchikan Creek. We are both looking forward to spending the holiday at home and at a much more subdued pace than in past years.
Many friends have mentioned that they may want to visit while in Seattle-that would be wonderful!! Since we have yet to know how each day will shape up, please call us ahead of time.
We'll let you know how Dennis is doing and how we can see you. My cell is 907-821-0022.
Looking forward to hearing from you, Faith and Dennis
Anyway, it was Minnie cat's day to feel bad. Having lost two pounds since May blood tests showed thyroid levels 5 times higher that of normal. So now Minnie and Maxie are on thyroid controlling pills. Although Kona manages to nose the cats into line most of the time, she just nuzzled Minnie today. Everyone here is a little raw still.
July4th approaches. For Dennis and myself this has always meant parades and pies and rootbeer floats and rubber duck races in Ketchikan Creek. We are both looking forward to spending the holiday at home and at a much more subdued pace than in past years.
Many friends have mentioned that they may want to visit while in Seattle-that would be wonderful!! Since we have yet to know how each day will shape up, please call us ahead of time.
We'll let you know how Dennis is doing and how we can see you. My cell is 907-821-0022.
Looking forward to hearing from you, Faith and Dennis
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