New Year's Eve

& what a cruddy one it has been....

Last night...dad started to get sick. The nurse gave him some intravenous meds to stop the vomiting. It seemed to have helped. The nurse told us that, usually, the severe nausea/vomiting starts during the 3rd chemo treatment. Aren't we surprised...it's not supposed to happen yet, it's happening to dad. Shocker. Our positive thinking...at least it shows that something's happening in his body & it's happening quicker than usual...good sign (even though it's a much less than enjoyable sign).

As of yesterday, they were thinking that Dad was going to be released this morning. After speaking with mom this morning, they are going to experiment with some different anti-nausea meds & then re-evaluate later this afternoon (my guess is that he'll stay overnight b/c he was sick most of the night & morning). Mom said that dad's pretty out of it. As of a few hours ago, dad couldn't even hold down any water (hang in there dad & mom!) - poor guy, as if this wasn't hard enough there has to be another layer. We are keeping our fingers crossed that they find some meds & quick so that dad can resume his walks & writing on his own blog! On the other hand, we hope the Drs don't release him before this is under control so that he can enjoy his time at home.

I'm right there with Mike & my little brother...this chemo has got to be doing something to that dang tumor if you feel this horrible! On the bright side...they reduced his pain meds (a few days ago), & he still feels no pain (in his sacrum - obviously not the rest of his body). It's awesome!

We hope that tomorrow & the New Year bring dad home feeling better than he has these past few days.

Happy New Year's to all of our family & friends! We hope you have a wonderful one & are able to spend it with those you love. We all are truly blessed to have each & every one of you thinking of dad, praying for him, sending him well wishes, & just being there for both mom & dad in whatever capacity you are able. What a gift you are to our dad, mom & the rest of our family.

Eve of going back home

Well....today brought on another round of complications...

Dad reacted to the isowhatever, again. Last round, this drug was given over the course of 2 hours (the usual dosage/time frame). It's the drug that caused severe side effects (tremors & confusion). Last time, they stopped giving dad the dosage partway through the 2nd chemo bag (there should have been 3 bags given). This time Dr. Ryan decided to give the isowhatever over the course of 24 hours, in hopes of eliminating the side effects.

Dad made it through the bulk of it this time. About 1:00pmish, he sat up to eat his lunch of chef salad & broccoli. When he sat up, he had the shakes pretty bad. He couldn't even hold onto the silverware. The Dr. on call (along w/Dr. Ryan's suggestion) stopped the isowhatever drip (there were only 3-4 hours left of it). He is now receiving some really cool blue stuff to counteract the side effects. The great thing was that about 10 minutes after they stopped the drip, dad's shakes went away.

Now that he is no longer receiving the isowhatever, he gets to go home much earlier. So, he will be done receiving all the meds intravenously at about 3:30am. He will be discharged (as long as OHSU is swift - we haven't seen it up until this point) early afternoon!

Dad's been resting his eyes...all day. In the words of mom...he's just like Santa. He knows everything! He hears & sees it all, nothing gets by this man. How did we ever get away with anything as kids? :) We did share some good disciplining stories today...Uncle B w/comic books getting swatted while dad fake cried, me (Tory) thinking it funny dad was spanking me at such an old age & then realizing that when dad put his mind to it (of course the tongue was out, those of you that know him well enough to know the tongue goes hand in hand w/deep concentration) he really could hurt & elicit real tears, not just giggles.

Thanks again for all the comments, emails, & thoughts - the day is crawling. Truly 1 minute feels like an eternity, so those thoughts are making the day pass a little quicker.

Tonight...

Well, what a fake out this morning was....
This morning was FABULOUS. Dad was in great spirits, went walking with Car, Tiff & Andy were here, Uncle B came, lots of chatting, joking, and then....

Everyone left at the same time & the emotions of chemo started kicking in. Dad started getting nauseous & frustrated at the enormity of the situation.

Uncle B (thank you so very much as we know your shoulder is not your friend right now & is making life a little difficult) brought dad & mom some pizza & stayed to visit a little longer. Tina also came bearing cookies (does she know dad well or what) & walking shoes. Unfortunately dad wasn't in the spirits for a walk (will definitely take a rain check on that one). She stayed & visited a bit.

The nurses finally gave dad a pill to help ease the emotions & gave him a shot to reduce the nausea.

He's now sleeping soundly...yes, the snoring is in full force...it's great. We are hoping that it lasts all night!

Earlier in the day, in dad-like fashion...he wanted a shower. The nurse informed him that it would postpone his departure time by a half an hour (all the chemo bags would have to be disconnected the entire time)...guess what dad decided...yep, no shower. Let's get out of this joint as QUICKLY as possible!

Here's hoping that the next 24 hour set of chemo bags goes quickly & smoothly (on the emotions & belly). We know he's anxious to be writing on his own blog, although, secretly I think he likes having his own personal scribes.

December 29

Good morning everyone. I have made it through the second night; just waking up frequently to get rid of all of the fluids they are giving me. I don't have a problem getting back to sleep though. As last time, the chemo is making me get the hiccups which don't feel so good and are extremely frustrating! I have found two methods that seem to work together to get rid of them. Drinking water upside down seems to get rid of them and if I don't talk too much they don't come back. I also have the tremors and the doctor just came in and checked them out. He didn't seem too worried because they are not as bad as last time. The medication has also caused my face to swell a good amount, I guess I am just getting ready for the Alvin and the Chipmunks movie, but not to worry, I am still handsome. {That is what Tiff said anyway:)} It made my morning though to wake up and have all of your comments read to me. Thank you for that.

The Doctor just came in and informed us that the chemo should finish up late tomorrow night and then the rest of the stuff should finish Monday and I should get to go home Monday night. Yay!

Last night I had five different lines of medication being fed into me through the picc line. My infusion pole is getting heavier and heavier so when I go on my walks I am getting a bit more exercise in. I am looking forward to Carl coming up here today to go on a walk with me. Maybe we can get in a couple of miles today as well. We ended up making 132 laps around the floor yesterday, but I think I should get bonus points for pushing the infusion pole with me.

I did get a chance to watch the Beavers play, maybe I would have enjoyed it more if I wasn't so coherent, Car. But I did have Barry, my wife, and Tiff here to provide me with the excitement I needed. However, a bowl win is a bowl win. Next year they will be talking about Riley, who has won four bowl games, they wont be saying how pretty they are, but that he has won them.

Thanks again for all of the comments. They really do brighten my day.

impressive...

We all know my dad and know that you never give him a challenge. He is the most motivated person I have never known and he takes any challenge on with determination. The nurses said that 44 laps around the floor equaled a mile. Put this with the fact that the doctor told dad he should get up and walk around and you are just guaranteeing that dad will walk the 44 laps. Not only that, but dad has gone and done it again, he impressed the nurses around here by not only walking the 44 laps needed to make a mile, but by walking at such a fast pace they couldn't believe he was already coming back to them.

We are having a good day except for the fact that the food is not that wonderful here. We met with Doctor Ryan and he was surprised that dad's pain level did not increase with the decrease of his pain patch. He does have a bit of a tremor in his right hand so they are just going to keep an eye on it.

Thanks again for all of the comments, they are appreciated by all of the Carey family.

December 28

After a fitful and apprehensive day of waiting in the hospital they started my chemo at 10:00 PM. As it turned out it was an excellent night; other than having to wake up and use the bathroom hourly. We are in a double room giving us more space and since I am in quarantine I am the only patient allowed in the room. The nurses were great and allowed Kath to use the second bed and stay the night with me. My hopes are that I will feel this great for the rest of my stay and I hope my good aura carries over to the Beaver football team and they are able to have a good night also. Thank heavens my daughter rescued me this morning and brought doughnuts because the food is anything other than delicious. For dinner my wife and Tiff are going to rescue me again and get take out. The nurses say I am being spoiled, but I figure I deserve it, as does my family :). They have changed my treatment and are going to be giving me the chemo at a slower rate this time which means I could be here through Monday or Tuesday. This is worth it if it treats me this wonderfully and I have my lovely wife to look at every day and at least I don't have to drink my own pee like Bear; right BC? Thanks for all of the comments yesterday, they really helped me when I was feeling down.

December 27th

I am sitting at OHSU right now with my dad and mom in the waiting room. (this is Tiffany) We met with Dr. Ryan this morning after some hot chocolate and two walks around the building. Dad has gained an additional three pounds!!! His lab results are good, other than the fact that he is a bit anemic. They said that it is fine, they will just keep an eye on it. His other tests did impress the doctor though. Dr. Ryan was also impressed with the mileage daddy is putting in...he is an animal! The doctor said that walking should be the only exercise he should be doing right now so as not to strain his sacrum. We get to reduce the Fetanoyl patch since his pain has minimized so hopefully this will help with some of his other feelings.

Dad did impress us all though by throwing aside his fear of heights and riding the tram...TWICE! We then headed to the cafeteria where dad and I shared a hamburger and fries (Delicious!) and he shared soup with mom. Lots of different foods sounded good to him so we will making cafeteria runs for him! We are waiting for a room right now since our lovely doctor's office neglected to reserve us one...they had no records or anything saying we were here for a room. We are waiting for his office to call up here and get us where we need to be! Right now we are sitting here in the waiting room looking at the snow so at least we have a beautiful view!!!

Dad sends his love to everyone out there. We appreciate all of your support and comments. Keep them coming because it is nice to read them; thank you! We will keep you updated and see you soon! Can't wait for more walks! :)

Eve of going back to OHSU

Tomorrow I go back for my second round of chemo at OHSU. I will probably be out of blog circulation for awhile, unless I feel a lot better than the first session. I hope that I will be awake for the Beaver game on Friday. My family will be at the hospital with me again. I really thrive on their support. It gets very lonely in the hospital room and I need their support as well as yours. Thanks again for your thoughts. Chemo is the roughest part of this journey. Together we will make it through however. It will be tough not walking while I am there, but I plan on getting right back at it when I get home again. Here's to a great new year with lots of sunny miles!!!

Fun Christmas with the Family

Well there is such a thing as too much fun that you can not settle down afterwards. That is what has happened to me. Here it is almost midnight, I've tried to go to sleep twice, but my mind and body just won't slow down for the needed sleep. I had so much fun going on walks with my children, eating an incredible meal fixed by my mom, wife, and Ardath, trading presents with all the fam (my son, Aaron was the big winner, and nice necklace BC - we play the cutthroat gift exchange in our family). It was so great telling new stories and sharing old ones. I hope all of you had as much fun as we did, but I also hope that you were able to get to sleep. On the positive side, the house is getting cleaned with all my excess energy. My daughter, Tiffany, and my two son-in-laws are showing up in about 9 hours to help take the wall paper off the dining room and paint it a new uplifting color. For those that don't know, we have just put the house back up for sale. A 3,500 square foot house with five bedrooms is just getting to be too much for Kath and me. We don't even go in six of the rooms anymore. So we have been upgrading a few spots. Even if we don't sell it, it will look nice for us. I also think the lack of sleep has something to do with me being a little nervous about going back for the second round of chemo in two days. Send those positive thoughts my way and help me go through this session quickly. I will be thinking about all of you. Let's all start thinking about a great new year now! Also "Go Beavs and Go Ducks!"

Merry Christmas

I just want to wish everyone a merry Christmas! I hope yours is as good as mine is, because we are having a great one.

Christmas Eve

First my thanks to Carl for our two mile walk at 7 am this morning. Secondly my thanks to Barry for our two mile walk to the post office at 1 pm (even though they were closed) Then thanks to my wife for our two mile walk Good mileage today! Just want to wish all a Merry Christmas! Enjoy your day tomorrow! I know I am looking forward to spending time with my family! Morning and breakfast will be with my entire clan: Kathy, Tory, Chris, Michael, Amber, Aaron, Tiffany, and Andy. Then afternoon with all my family plus my mom, my brother Brad, my nephew Brad Jr., and Ardath. I am really looking forward to it all!! It will give me strength to start the second round on the 27th.

another December 23

I wanted to thank all these individuals that have lifted my spirits on my blog: Linda Young, John Bugni, Mark Madland, Jeremy Guill, Doug Eaton, Jon Carey, Tina Loeffler, Lindell and Ernie Johnson, Tom Cutsforth, Brad Carey, Beth and Mike Strickling, Dick and Sharon Langdon, Michael Carey, Glen Clark, Jim and Linda McGough, Sue Thompson, Reed and Kelly Langdon, Harold Leeson, Carl Nelson, Thom and Carol Roberts, Jefferson Starr, Chris Gross, Judy Folden, Big Buck Fallin, OJ, Kary Daniels, Dar Luster, Hilda, and Tami Menold. Thanks to all that sent cards: Gary Sackley, Bruce Carey, Corky and Cathy Fallin, Sue and Chuck Cammack, Dr. Tina Sedlack, Paul Massee, Jennie Gilchrist, Nancy and Dan Heer, Kathy Sansone, Doug Eaton, Tami Menold, Chris Gross, Connie Platz, Phil and Audry Bay, Marcy Jefferson, Ardath Flomer, Michelle Howard, all my friends at Le Griz, Bill and Janet Long, Linda Gray, Stan and Ruth Holme, Barry and Betty Jahn, Dick and Rosemary Shanks, Jeanette Nunnenkamp, Sue Hill, Sumpter staff, Cathy and Scott Carnahan, Sandy Bartruff, Debbie Eide, Gwenda Rice, Brad Carey Jr., Deanie Anderson, WOU staff, Gloria Flager, Wendi Racine, Rob and Marcia Nichols, and Lynne Lindsay. I know this is not everyone and apologize for those that I have left off. I am trying to keep my mind bright, but occasionally I miss some. With this many people pulling for me and sending positive thoughts my was, how can I lose? I can't! I will win!!! Thanks again!! Love yoyu all!

December 23

Thanks again for the comments. I've had a good night and day. Thanks to my wife, Jefferson, and Reed for helping me put in 6 miles today. No thanks to the weather since it poured every time I was out for a walk. Even saw the storm drains overflowing. Here is hoping that tomorrow brings better weather. Thanks to my kids I have been enjoying looking at the Christmas tree. I am looking forward to having dinner with my wife, brother, nephew, and mom tomorrow. All my children will be spending Christmas Eve with their significant others. Then Christmas I get to spend with all my family!!!! I am feeling strong and can't say enough about my wife. If I start tp get low or lose sleep, she picks me up and gets me going. I am very blessed with my family and friends!

December 22

A day of ups and downs. Slept until 2 am, moved to the floor in front of the fireplace in the living room. Really strange because I have to sleep with the lights on. Got up at 6am, went to Fred Meyer, walked to the post office and then shopped for a kitchen light when they opened at 7 am. I really am fighting restlessness. This is when I have to get a little help from my medication. After about half and hour and a walk, I tend to settle down. I have been fortunate to go for walk with my wife, my son Michael, my daughter Tiffany, and my brother-in-law Bill. While I was out on one of my walks, my children had snuck out, got a Christmas tree, and decorated it for us. That made me really feel great and lifted my spirits because we have not had time to get a tree this year. Once again thanks for vtho0se that commented on my last entry. Nice to hear from Lindell, Ernie, Tina, Reed's parents, Jon, and also the others. Thanks for making my day. Hopefully tonight will be as good as the last part of today.

December 21

I again want to thank all those individuals that have sent a comment to me on this blog. I can't say enough how much they mean to me and how much they help lift my spirits. Together all of you will help me beat this thing and help make me stronger. Please never stop sending your thoughts my way (I also really love the repeat senders as well as the new senders). As for today, it has been great. The only negative is that I have no appetite and nothing tastes very good. So I am just eating for the calories and certainly not for the taste. Today I was pleased to go for walks with Barry, my brother Brad, nephew Brad Jr., daughter Tory, son-in-law Chris, and finally my wife. Together I put in about six miles. Felt great! The more miles I put in, the better. I may not be running right now, but at least I am going at a nice walking pace. I hope everyone is getting ready for a super Christmas and is able to spend a lot of family time together. Thanks again for all your caring. It is greatly appreciated.

December 20

Really seems like a roller-coaster lately. The past 24 hours were a flip flop of the day before. Kath and I went to bed at 11pm, after a great visit from my oldest daughter and son-in-law. The was followed by a nice mile walk with my friend Bill Rupp. Felt so good that Kath and I decided to go to breakfast at the casino. Unfortunately that did not sit well with my stomach and it revolted (nice way of saying I threw up). During the day I got sick three more times. Didn't let that slow me down though. Carl came over and we walked for a mile and a half. I visited Jeff, Celeste, and Matthew today. I guess the bottom line is that no matter what hurdles you hit, it just depends on how high you clear them! Each day it amazes me with how extremely important your family and friends are. I again want to thank my daughter, Tory, for setting up this blog. I have been amazed with how many people are checking it daily and sending comments to me. This is such a huge lift for me. I can not express this enough. Thanks to all and you all mean so much to me and my way of life. I love you all!

December 19

We have to always remember to take the bad with the good. Last night was one of those tough ones. The day went great until about 10 o'clock. I had what can only be termed as an anxiety attack. I could not settle down and I was wide awake. I just wanted to be close to Kath and my skin seemed to be crawling. I finally settled down in bed around 1:30 am. Felt like a little kid, because I slept with the lights on. Was able to sleep until 5 am. Day certainly picked up however. Barry stopped by and put in a new kitchen light fixyure for us and then took me on a mile walk. Had lunce at Burger Ki9ng with Carl and got a surprise visit from my ex-principal, Bill Spivey. Glad gto hear that his cancer is disappearing. I'll plan to be there also soon after my treatments. After lunch, Mike Strickling, old friend of over 20 some years, showed up and took me for a walk of about two miles. It is amazing how my spirits pick up after a nice long walk with a friend! Thanks to all! Plan on visiting Jeff and Celeste with their new son, Matthew later. Tonight, hopefully, Bill Rupp will show up to take me on an evening walk. Good cheer to all! I'll keep you informed!

December 18

Today has been the best day yet! Barry and I walked from my house to the hospital (about three and a half miles) at 8:30 am to get my picc line dressing changed (I guess I slept a little restless and messed it up). After that Kath, Tory, and my mom went to visit Jeff, Celeste, and their new son, Matthew, at the birthing center. Mom and I had lunch after that. Several hours after lunch, Lynne Beck, an ex-student (sixth grade) and former basketball star on one of my Albany teams, stopped by and took me for another walk (about a mile and a half). To top the day off, my wife (she's an awesome cook) fixed me steak and a baked potato! Needless to say, I did not have a dull moment and everything seemed to go great! Must be all the positive thoughts and e-mails that I am being sent by all my wonderful friends. A big thanks to all those in my Western Oregon family that sent comments on my blog. I miss you all and hope to see you in the near future! Good luck, Glen, onc those last four! You can do it! I hope everyone is getting ready for a great Christmas! Love you all!

December 17

This evening finds me in trouble with my youngest daughter because I have not updated my blog. Very sorry! My days are going well except for morning nausea. I try to tough it out and not take medication for it, but it is not working. If you forget about that minor problem, everything seems to be going fine. I am getting in about three to five miles of walking a day thanks to my friends. Just finished a brisk 2 and a half mile walk with Barry. Last night, Carl and I braved the rain and put in about two miles. I do love going on long walks with my friends. Nice hearing and telling stories. My appetite is good. The only problem I seem to have with what I put in my stomach, involves the liquids. I really am not feeling good about the liquids. Water, soda, milk, juice - they all don't sound great to me. However *I do force it down. I also spent some time today with my great bud, Jefferson, at the hospital. He and Celeste are the proud parents of an eight pound three ounce young man named Matthew! Congrats on them. We are proud of them. Also today I made contact with OJ, Blackie, Harold, Mike, and CCC. I have been trying to contact everyone via their personal e-mail. Thanks so much for continuing to check on me. It really helps me keep strong. I love you all!!!

Saturday afternoon

Thanks to Tom Cutsforth (friend of mine since middle school) for driving up from Albany to take me for a forty-five minute walk (just like cross country days with Ralph Rudzik). Still feeling very lethagic, but trying to force myself to eat and stay awake. Went ahead and beat the inevitable loss of hair and had my wife shave me. My son, Michael, had already shaved his for me. Now both my sons and I are light of hair! Hope all of you are having a great weekend. I look forward to visiting with Reed and Kelley tomorrow (Reed student taught in my class many years ago and Kelley was a student in my freshman high school class many, many years ago. Great to have friends from all areas of my life. Finally thanks to Jefferson for watching many hours of television with me last night and helping walk me!! love you all! Ron

Great Harvest

Kath and I just walked a mile and a half to Great Harvest. Their Marrionberry Scones hit the spot. We then walked back, making it a three mile outing. Chris, the bat wing span is certainly shorter due to lessened flights!! I hope we can for a walk next week. I can't wait to get back to Black Butte at the start of the year. Been awhile since I've seen Thom and Carol. Tina, I will save a walk for you when you get back in the territory. I am really trying to get back on a normal schedule. I will continue to keep you all posted. Thanks for all your thoughts and comments. Ron

Annoying daughter w/stipulations...

So glad dad is so much better! Obviously, lots of drugs. It's pretty entertaining....

My dad said that he would love to have visitors...please do not stay any longer than an hour. Very important...my mom & dad are way too nice (I'll be the bad guy - cousin Jon, I know you were already thinking it :)) & would never kick you out, so please be cognizant of the time you are here.

The MOST IMPORTANT stipulation....
If you are sick. If you have allergies/allergy symptoms. If you have been exposed to anyone in any way (ie your kids or wife or husband is sick, or has been sick in the preceding week), do NOT come by. This is extremely important. It is vital to dad's health, treatment, & ability to fight this "thing!" Again...do NOT come by if there is any chance you may pass along a virus.

Dad loves walks - day, evening, light, dark, rain, snow, sun, clouds, fogs...he's up for anything. He appreciates anyone that is willing to come by & join him for a jaunt. I do want to forewarn you, dress warmly because you may be out for awhile. Dad may have cancer, but he's still an ultra marathoner. How proud he makes us all (& makes some of us that are a little lazy at times, feel a little guilty)!!! What a role model!

Thanks to everyone

To all my friends:

I am now up and running (figuratively speaking) thanks to my good bud, Barry. He spent the day getting this (computer) set up for me. Please remember that I am still on several drugs, so my typing abilities are not up to speed yet (Linda and Connie know how fast I am when I am not on anything and they know that the drugs probably will help!!) I will have to break into this computer age verrrryyy slowly. Right now I am typing about 4 words a minute. As of right now, I am able to sleep from about 11pm until 7 am. I am walking about 4 miles a day with the use of my awesome walking stick my brother bought me and I always need a walking partner (anyone interested in walking with me, please give me a call...I love being able to take long strolls with my friends). I am also doing 15 pushups a day. My family is allowed to see me at my house after putting on disinfectant and washing up. I have to be dished up any food and have to eat first because I can't pick up any germs (nasty little things!) I am able to go to Costco and a few other places as long as I don't touch anyone (this is tough because I like to hug!) So if you see me, great, as long as you give me an imaginary hug! I tend to get out in the afternoon, because I tend to be a little nauseous in the morning. I am now just on one painkiller at 9am and one at 9pm. I am set for my next chemo on December 27. After that we will wait for another three weeks to see if this treatment is working. If it is, then I will undergo radiation to finish this "thing" off! The interesting thing about this is that treatment would be a lot easier on me if I was out of shape like the doctors say 85% of America is. The reasoning behind this is because my body (any person that is in as good of shape, as myself) is constantly trying to fight this off - it is in a constant fight mode.

Thanks again to everyone who has sent me cards, emails, prays, good thoughts, & well wishes!

Thank you, again...

Dad had another great day. They decreased some of his meds, which is a great thing. Nothing new to report. Mom & dad will be getting a new computer in a few days, so dad will probably be posting info until his next chemo & then you're stuck w/my take on everything. If everything remains how it has been the past 48 hours, then we won't post anything (so no worries that something happened).

Dad wanted me to reiterate to everyone how much your comments (& to those of you who are having troubles w/the website - the emails you send me that I pass along) mean to him. He loves every night when I bring them over...it's the first thing he does. It's so enjoyable to watch him laugh & smile through them.

The rest of our immediate family is very thankful, as well. It's so great to know we have such supportive friends & family. It is such a relief to know we have so many willing hands & so much support & love from each of you. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you & we love you!!!

Nothing New, YEAH!

Dad had his Neulasta shot (it might be that word, it might not be) today. This shot is to replace some of things in dad's body that are destroyed by chemo (for example, his platelets - something to do with the blood count). Tomorrow he goes in for his blood test/check up to make sure things are working correctly.

He had a great day. Dr. appt, shopped (Costco, of course), went for a few very long walks, slept last night all on his own (without the help of meds), was a little loopy (thanks to the meds), spent the day sitting (rather than lying on the bed, which has been his usual position) & trying to cough (some mucus in his lungs & we want to avoid the prospect of pneumonia again) & sounds like things are going great! Such a relief after last week!

To leave a comment...

Obviously dad is feeling 100% better compared to yesterday. Yeah!

I have heard from many of you (those of you that have contacted me, not naming any names, you were not the only ones) that you can't leave comments....if you go to the bottom of whatever the entry was for the day (or any day you want to comment on) & click on comments (in the white box), a little box will pop up that you type in (it may be at the bottom of all the other comments). You type what you want to say & then at the very bottom there is an orange button (go Beavs!) that says publish post now - click this.

Thank you again for everything! Those comments & cards are truly getting dad through, just as he said.

Its Me, Ron, writing...

To my friends, scummies, family, and all others that are interested!
I have just finished my first round of chemo and let's just say that it was not much fun. This will be short, but I did want all of you to know how much I appreciate your letters, e-mails, and thoughts. I am going to start contacting individuals via e-mail since I am finding that it is the best way. It is very difficult for me to talk on the phone and I cannot touch anyone (hug, shake hands, etc) due to the type of chemo I am receiving. So I am going to be checking my e-mails frequently and responding. However, I just wanted everyone to know how important you all are to me and how much I have enjoyed your contacting me. Please continue contacting me via this web site that my daughter has set up for me. I am a fighter and am going to beat this thing. Your comments and e-mails will be a big part of my recovery, so please keep them coming. I am very fortunate to have such a strong family and awesome friends, and I know that together we will win the upper hand! The doctors told me that the next few days I will be a little wobbly, but I will fill you in more over the next few days. I love you all and truly appreciate your concern and care! Ron, RC, Cuddler, Ronald, Scratch (or whatever name you know me by)

Day Before Release, Hopefully

Today was another rough day. It's going to be nice, supposedly, around 1:30am...the last bit of chemo is complete (this go around).

Dad didn't sleep at all last night. Wasn't even able to take a nap today. They are changing around some meds, in hopes of helping the insomnia. He watched a lot of football (the Browns won, go Derek Anderson), went for a few walks, ate well today, & listened to his kids play Skip-Bo. We will be teaching dad the card game when he heads home.

The side effects are definitely kicking in right now. He's been nauseous all day. They are experimenting w/the anti-nausea meds in hopes of finding one that actually works. The nurse did tell us, today, that this is the worst he'll probably feel. Once he gets home she said that he may get extremely fatigued. The dr thinks that dad's nausea will subside with the final drip of chemo. WAHOO (oh yeah, & let's keep our fingers crossed the dr is right)!!!

His blood tests were all positive today - he didn't need any supplements of anything. As of tonight, he'll be released tomorrow (as long as everything tonight, goes as planned).

Thank you for everyone's understanding & not calling, it's been a huge help for our mom, right now. Hopefully, Tuesday, dad will be feeling a little more like himself. He'll be in his own home & surroundings, which we hope will assist in alleviating a little of the anxiety that's bound to occur when you are laying in a hospital bed day in & day out.

We are definitely proud of him & all he's enduring right now! There are many of us that wouldn't have the courage to fight the way he does & is. As we all know & believe, if this man can run a 50 miler...okay, 9 of them...he can endure this excruciating race.

1st Chemo Contd.

Today has not been a good day in the Carey family (sorry for the blatant honesty, but we figure it's better to be honest so everyone knows exactly what's going on).

Dad started getting the shakes late last night. Shakes being that he couldn't hold on to anything & had weird twitches in his body all night & most of today. We found out today that it is a very rare (yep, shocker, it happened to dad) & very bad (develops into other severe conditions) side effect of 1 part of the chemo (iso-whatever) he is receiving. He is supposed to get 3 doses, but the dr. canceled the last dose (that was supposed to be administered tonight). When they administer his 2nd round later this month, they will do a lower dosage & hope that eliminates this side effect.

Each time he had testing done, his body was lacking something...it was potassium tonight, so he had to drink a nasty tasting supplement. The nurses say it's typical for most chemo patients to be lacking the potassium, though.

He did eat today. Ate some pizza, ate eggs & cereal for breakfast, eating lots of chocolate boost pudding (was good the first day, now he just chokes it down b/c it is high in protein & that's the most important thing for dad to be eating), ate a burger & green beans for dinner. Unfortunately the food is starting to lose all appeal & the nausea is rolling in steadily. He was nauseous most of this evening - even w/the medication (curbed it for awhile).

Needless to say, it's been a rough day.

Dad will be released Monday afternoon - as long as tomorrow & Monday morning go smoothly. Let's pray for this! Again, thank you for understanding & not calling mom & dad. Mom will call or I will let you all know when dad is up for visitors. Unfortunately, it may be awhile.

Mom says the best thing, the thing that dad appreciates & looks forward to, are the cards you are mailing & the comments that all of you are posting on this website. It truly does cheer him up to hear what you all have to say. He likes the stories, the jokes, the love & friendship he feels from you all. So, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

1st Chemo

Dad started his first chemo session yesterday. Yesterday was great! Mom had lazer eye surgery & Tiff stayed in Salem with her. Dad was up at OHSU w/his 2 brothers & Michael. He was ready to fight. He knows it's going to be much like an ultra marathon. He knows this is only the beginning & it's going to be a long hard haul, but he'll get through.

They checked in first thing in the morning. Dad had a pick line put in, had his "mugascan" (some testing around the heart, I believe - all this stuff starts sounding alike after hearing so many variations of the same types of tests), & then the boys went for long walks around the OHSU complex. The place is huge! Dad checked into his room. They chatted, watched TV, went for more walks, ate pizza (2 different times)...dad had his first doses of the chemo. Uncle Chris stayed with him & slept on an air mattress (much appreciated, thank you!). Dad slept through the entire night.

Sidebar - when you check into the oncology floor at OHSU (for the first 48 hours), any visitors have to wear these yellow long sleeve aprons & purple latex gloves at ALL times you are in the room. When you leave, you dispose of them & have to put new ones on when you come back in the room. Not easy to text, email, to do much of anything really. We have some classic pictures.

This morning, everything sounded delicious to dad. He ate enough breakfast for 3 men. It was great! The nurse made the mistake of mentioning that walking around a loop on the floor 33 times equaled a mile. Yep, you got it right...dad took Uncle Chris for a morning workout consisting of a mile walk. We had pizza for lunch (dad found a new favorite), chatted, watched some tv, & did a little work.

Mom took off her goggles this morning (she had to wear them for 24 hours after eye surgery) & she can see!!! She & Tiff headed up to the hospital after her appt this morning.

Late in the morning...those dreaded hiccups came back. We tried MANY different tricks. For awhile shoulder rubs & ice cream worked. Then it was drinking water upside down (literally). Then came the pushups. Breathing into a paper bag. Drinking water from a cup with a knife. Finally, we resorted to the medication. This, after 5 hours of hiccuping w/the 20 minute rests in between. The nurse informed us that chemo wreaks havoc in the diaphragm & a lot of times hiccups are a natural side effect.

Dad slept for a few hours after that. I'll update more tomorrow when I talk with mom & see how his night went. From the sounds of it, the side effects of the chemo usually start showing up anywhere from tonight, but they could take up to a week to show their ugly side.

He had another dose of chemo tonight at 8:00pm & another 24 hour drip starting at 10:00pm. It sounds as if he won't be released until Sunday at some point. They scheduled his next chemo treatment for December 27th @ 8:45am.

As of right now, mom & dad aren't wanting any visitors or many phone calls. I'll keep you all updated on when things are a little easier - & when they won't mind so much the constantly ringing phone. They are very appreciative of the calls, kind words, & prayers, but it's exhausting sometimes. W/the chemo effects, it's going to be much harder for the both of them. We do go see them every day & we print out all comments or emails we receive for them, so if there is anything you would like us to pass on, please feel free to email or post a comment! Also, when "visiting hours" start taking place, dad's immune system is going to be completely GONE. If you feel any sort of anything...even if you only think it's allergies or if you've been around people that have been sick, please do NOT go by to visit. Dad can't risk getting anything. Thank you!

Again, we can't thank you enough for everything everyone of you is doing & has done. We would be lost w/o the support of our family & friends. Thank you for keeping mom & dad in your prayers & thoughts - right now, it's about all any of us can do.

OHSU Appt

Sorry this may be a little jumbled or fuzzy...it's been an extremely long day. If you have any other specific questions, please feel free to email me @ toryccarnahan@gmail.com or tccarnahan@yahoo.com

Today we had dad's much anticipated appointment. Dad had his radiation "simulation" first. He was tattooed. Yep, really marked permanently. Hopefully, Aaron can fancy the plain boring dots up a bit, eventually. He was injected w/a dye & was put in a Cat Scan machine thing & was fitted for his "cast." The "cast" (I truly have no idea what it's called) and dots are so for every radiation treatment, the beams go in the exact same spot so the Drs. can zap the tumor good.

After he went through that process (an hour), we met w/Dr. Hung (the radiation expert that will be treating dad). He informed us that after much deliberation w/his peers at MD Anderson, he felt that chemo would be the most positive place to start. He said that if he was in dad's position, it's what he would do. There were obviously many things to think about w/treating w/chemo before radiation. The obvious side effects of chemo as well as putting off the radiation treatment & risking the tumor increasing in size, or spreading. Dr. Hung said that there is a large chance that chemo won't work, but the 25% chance that it does work would make radiation that much more effective. He said that there may be a chance chemo doesn't work (obviously a 75% chance), but radiation will work -there is no doubt, but it's a matter of how much radiation can zap the tumor...the point with chemo is to throw everything at this cancer before starting the radiation.

Armed w/that info & Dr. Hung's recommendation (he's a great Dr. w/an incredible bedside manner, by the way), we headed down to see Dr. Ryan (the chemo expert). Some of us took the tram...others wussed out & drove down to the waterfront because the tram was too scary. Not naming any names...you know who you are. :)

When we met w/Dr. Ryan he was pretty bleak (or should I say that he was just blatantly honest & told us things we have all read & heard before). He reiterated all the negatives, rather than focusing on the positive chances & the positive things the chemo could do for dad. He was very honest (which is definitely a plus - there will be absolutely no surprises when treatment begins), & obviously chemo is VERY rough on your body. It's meant to kill the cancer cells & any possible "micro" cells that are floating around & haven't visibly appeared.

Long story short....dad starts chemo either Thursday or Friday. He will be hospitalized for 3 days (most chemo treatments are administered as out-patient, but nothing but the most intense for dad) for the type of chemo they are administering. He will have his first treatment up at OHSU & depending on how his body reacts to it, the remainder of them may be at the Salem Hospital. He will have treatment for 3 days, go home for 3 weeks & then have another treatment for 3 days. In another 3 weeks, they will run tests to see if the chemo is working (blood tests - these will also be given weekly, especially after dad's transfusions & scans). If it is working, they will continue with this regimen for another 3 sessions, I believe (3 days on, 3 weeks off). After that, they will start the radiation. If the chemo isn't working after the first 2 sessions, they will start w/radiation at that point. The radiation (in either circumstance) will be for 7 weeks. Monday thru Friday for 15 minutes. Where the radiation is (it'll be in the sacrum/back & pelvis), there shouldn't be any severe side effects - which will be so nice for dad!

We did find out today that angio sarcoma is rare...which we already knew...cases exactly like dad's - there has only been 1 recorded & it was in Japan. The Drs. did say that dad's case would probably be published in medical journals...that's how rare it truly is. There are no numbers & chances they can give us because they've never come across it.

Only our dad/husband/friend/mentor/brother/son/etc. would be diagnosed with this. &, more importantly, he's going to beat this! It's going to be a very long tough road for all of us. Remember that none of us are in this alone. We thank all of you for the offers to help out in any way - around the house, grocery shopping, tv watching, cooking us meals, etc. As well as the cards you are constantly sending dad and mom...it definitely is the highlight of their day. Mom & dad have them displayed on their mantle. The words of encouragement, support, & love are vital to both of our parents. We all thank you and are very thankful you are in this amazing support system we have.

Things are still going well for dad. The blustery day has kept most of us inside & cut a few walks short for dad. He & mom did make it to Costco for a bite to eat & some fresh air. He was unable to sleep last night (unfortunately, after 2 great nights of sleep, a little frustrating), so tonight...he's gonna be exhausted. :) Pain is still under control - dad's still up & moving around, sitting on the couch watching tv.

Just waiting for Tuesday...we find out the course of treatment & we are able to get started fighting this thing!

Civil War Day

We had a fabulous time watching the Beavers beat the Ducks in Autzen stadium...a lot of nervousness w/some idiot coaching moves that could have cost us the game & a few horrific throws by our QB. But, in the end...the best team won! :)

Dad is still doing great! He had another fantastic night of sleep, went for a few walks, & even sat on the couch for the entire game (he's been lying in bed since this all started).

Dad, mom, Uncle B, Michael, Tiffany, & Tory were all there to enjoy some casserole, hot cocoa, & christmas tree cookies. Yum (& thanks mom)!

Uncle B bought dad a walking stick...very cool & a huge help for dad (sometimes he has trouble with his balance)...to use on his walks that are now extending from houses to blocks.

Background

As many of you know, after weeks of tests & various diagnoses, dad has been diagnosed with angio sarcoma of the sacrum (the place above your tailbone that all your nerves funnel into). Below, you will find a timeline of events to catch you up...

December 2006 - Dad was admitted to the hospital (stayed overnight) because of a possible bone infection.

He had been experiencing pain for a few months, tests were run & they determined it was the stress of his long distance running that was causing this pain. The Drs. told him to cut back on his exercise & that would, hopefully, cut down on the swelling/pain.

2007 - Pain continued in the tailbone. Dad took small amounts of Advil everyday & this seemed to alleviate the pain.

As the year progressed, the pain continued. The Advil was taken with more frequency & eventually, quit working.

October 18th (Thurs) - Dad went in for more blood tests and another MRI. The Dr. prescribed pain pills (the Advil had quit working at this point). Mom and dad headed to Black Butte for the weekend to relax.

October 19th - October 22nd (Fri - Mon) - The pain pills only worked for a few hours & dad's pain became unbearable. The trip home from Black Butte was long & difficult.

October 24th (Wed) - Dad went in to see an Infectious Disease (Dr. Girard). He went over all of dad's blood test results & then informed us that the results showed an inflammation around the sacrum. 7 different radiologists reviewed the tests & concurred that this pain was a stress fracture. Dr. Girard spent a lot of time with mom & dad inquiring about all of dad's symptoms, how he ended up in his office, etc. He then told dad to head over to the hospital & they were going to check him in. His blood counts were extremely high (indicates an infection) & the pain was unbearable & uncontrollable w/the pain meds at this point.

After checking into the hospital, they tried to find some pain meds that would, at least, touch the pain. After much experimentation, dad could finally rest - somewhat - comfortably. That night there were blood tests, CT scans, & a bone biopsy (the Drs. took bone from 6 different spots in the sacrum).

October 25th (Thurs) - Dad's pain was pretty much under control. Just stayed in the hospital awaiting results.

October 26th (Fri) - Another bone biopsy was performed (they didn't get enough good bits of bone to run enough test). His general practitioner came in that evening & informed dad & mom that in the bone biopsy, they found cancer cells & that tests would be run to determine the type of cancer & we would hear the results on Monday.

October 27th - 28th (Sat - Sun) - A very long weekend spent at the hospital. Denial. Frustration. Stress. The entire family & many friends visited & watched football. We made a great time out of a horrible situation.

October 29th (Mon) - Oncologist came in & told us more tests were needing to be run. We asked questions & had some answered, others weren't able to be answered until more results came in.

October 30th (Tues) - Dad needed an open bone biopsy performed. No one in Salem was willing to perform this surgery. Dad was transferred up to OHSU. The Drs. there also specialize in rare forms of cancer & would hopefully be able to determine what type dad had.

November 2nd (Fri) - Dad was released for home. Pain still not 100% under control, but was bearable.

November 9th (Fri) - Bone biopsy performed at OHSU. There is an 8 inch incision & the drs. had to pull away muscle & tissue to get to the bone. The surgery went as well as expected. Dad could go home that night! Many of us hung out in the recovery room with dad & had a good time. Dad was feeling no pain & got up & kind of danced around - lots of laughter.

The next few days were full of intense pain. Not a lot of sleep & a lot of anxiety was experienced, by all. This bone biopsy would tell us what type of cancer dad truly has & what the course of action was going to be.

November 16th (Fri) - Dad has his follow-up appt w/the surgeon. He had his stitches removed & the nurse informed him that it was the best looking incision she had seen.

We were told that dad has angio sarcoma of the sacrum. Only 55 people in the US, per year, contract this form of cancer. The surgeon said it's very rare & OHSU doesn't see a lot of patients with it (oddly enough, there was another patient going through the same thing as dad - but his cancer isn't in the sacrum). The surgeon answered all the questions we had (& was incredibly supportive & honest - much appreciated, especially in a time like this). He recommended we come back up on November 21st (Wed). There was going to be a sarcoma panel & the radiation dr. & chemo dr. would both be there. They would all be able to put their heads together to come up with the best course of treatment for dad.

November 17th - 20th (Sat - Tues) - Very long few days. More questions were written down for drs. Pain was still far from being under control. Experimenting with different pain pills was still going on.

November 21 (Wed) - The day has finally come....we get to find out some real answers...Uncle B & all 4 kids (& 1 pseudo kid) were at the appt. Yep, very crowded room, but lots of ears & support.

We met w/the radiation dr. first. All questions were answered, but we still weren't sure where treatment would be. According to the dr. - where dad's cancer is, it makes things complicated. He told us that he was going to get in touch w/his alma matter (MD Anderson in Houston) to see if dad would be better off receiving radiation from a proton machine (only 4 in the US - 1 in Houston & 1 in Loma Linda, CA). The proton machine has the ability to narrow where the radiation hits. But...with the cancer dad has, there may be no need for it (they use a proton laser when other internal organs may receive some excess radiation from a normal machine, but there are no internal organs around the sacrum that may get in the way - in dad's case).

We then met w/a chemo dr. & he informed us that he didn't feel chemo would touch dad's cancer. He said there were some experimental trials (Michael had found some info on the Internet & inquired about them) that we could look at, but we would use that as a last option - after radiation was completed. We expressed concern about dad's continued pain & the dr. changed some meds around & gave mom some ideas about how she should be flexible to, hopefully, control the pain.

November 22nd (Thurs) - HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! Dad had a great day, he even cut the turkey!!!!

November 23rd - 25th (Fri - Sun) - Dad got the hiccups...extremely painful! Every hour on the hour & they lasted for at least 20 - 40 min. Miserable!

November 24th (Mon) - 12:30 am, mom took dad to the Salem ER. At 4 am, they checked him into the hospital (w/the Salem oncologists recommendation). A shot was given (to attempt to curb the hiccups) & blood was drawn. When the tests came back, dad was informed he would have to have a blood transfusion.

Lots of drugs...dad was in a haze. Saying some hilarious things he's not going to remember. Still had the hiccups, the pain was there from a shot the night before...20 minutes after the blood transfusion he came out of his haze - read the menu & watched an hour of tv (yep, straight out of the movies, he OBVIOUSLY needed that blood).

November 27th (Tues) - Dad stayed in the hospital, hiccups were becoming further in between, pain was less, frustration - high.

November 28th (Wed) - Another blood transfusion (to prepare his body for the treatments). Released for home that night. Rough day. Still in a bit of pain. No sleep. Nausea every time he ate.

November 29th (Thurs) - Still pain. No sleep. Nausea. Finally found out that radiation would be given in Portland at OHSU. Dr. apologized up & down for not letting mom & dad know sooner (had been discussing w/MD Anderson, dad's results & different treatment options/ideas). Ate dinner, went for a walk, watched hoops, experimented w/some things....

November 30th (Fri) - Dad slept for 7 hours straight last night!!!! Had a wonderful night. Went to Costco w/mom & shopped. Went for a few walks. Helped get Christmas decorations upstairs. Looked & felt great!!!!