I can't get over all the support I have received. Yesterday 2 dear friends laid out a full schedule of volunteers for driving, help, support, etc while I am being treated and beyond. I feel so grateful.
On Friday I met with Dr Zoltan Rona who is a biologically oriented Doctor. He will help me create a healthy and quicker than predicted recovery. I went to the lab today and gave 22 vials of blood that they will be analyzing for him. I am also recording all food intake for a week. The more we understand about where I am at internally and where I need to get to the better able he will be at helping me.
I also talked to someone who face a similar throat cancer 5 years ago and got some amazing tips from him and his pharmaceutical wife.
On Monday I will talk to people at a Swiss clinic, have an appointment with a hearing specialist, (establishing a base line in case my hearing is effected by treatment) and go to the hospital dentist. Can't have dental work for a few years after radiation due to bone brittleness in the jaw so things must be check out now.
On Tuesday I will undergo a panendoscopy. They put me under and then try and find the primary tumor, the original site of the cancer which they believe is at the base of my tongue or where my tonsils used to be. They would like to find the primary so they can limit the amount of radiation they give me to the primary and the second site on the side of my neck. This is not surgery. They are simple looking in my throat and taking a biopsy of the suspected sites to see if any are cancerous.
On Friday I meet with the chemo specialist. I have already meet with the radiologist and have had a mask made that will hold me in a set position for radiation. It is much bigger and whiter than any of our goalie masks!
Finally...I hope to start the 7 weeks, 35 sessions, of treatment sometime on the week of the 22nd. Everyone is trying to speed things up and move this along but there are many steps. I have been so impressed with everyone I meet at Princess Margaret. They are all kind and considerate...patients and staff alike.
This will be my longest 'update' as I had to catch you all up on what has transpired. You should know I am in good spirits and ready to face what is coming...naive...but ready! The very best to all of you.
Peter,
ReplyDeleteJust got your email and wanted to say that everyone here at the Farm of One Purpsoe is supporting you from afar!!
Always Love and Hugs from:
Margot, Don, Tyke, Taz, Huck, Cyrus, Sawyer, Gracie, Bodean, One Purpose, Edna, Caicos, Heffner, Louise, Barbie, Dart, Laverne and Shirley
Hi Peter:
ReplyDeleteThanks for this blog. We are all thinking and praying for you.
Keep up the good spirits,
Doug, Joanne, Ryan, Brianna and Colin
Hi Peter:
ReplyDeleteHave been thinking about you over the last few weeks and am glad to hear that treatment is near. Yes, it does sound complicated and lengthy but one of my favourite quotes describes you and your situation well;
"You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage them."
Keep the optimism, it is good medicine, my "giant" friend.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Julia
So, as you know in your profession, the power of the mind is unmeasurable.....as is the power of being surrounded & supported by people who love you.....add me to that list...
ReplyDeletePeter,
ReplyDeleteYour power of positivism will propel you through this challenge. All Hosers south of the border are creating the positive vibe for you...Patty Morrisey...Ross Johnson and the rest of your Balancing Act fans! You are in my daily thoughts, my friend!
Love,
Rob Jackson
so it looks like there is a road map. unusual for anyone to know where the hell you are at the best of times.
ReplyDeleteIt even looks like a great road. So I am sure you know there ae many of us that will form the bricks to help you along the way, and the shoulders to guide you from falling off the path.. The journey will be step by step powered by your wonderful spirit, refuelled b the love and prayers of many. Count us in. dr bob
Peter,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update. Tough road ahead. I have been looking for positive omens in the universe for you. When news came last night that the Leafs won their 3rd straight for the first time this year, you know anything is possible. We are all pulling for you.
Wheels
Glad you sent us an email but sorry to hear the news, Peter. It's a big challenge ahead, just wish you didn't have to have it. We had been thinking and talking of you lots the last few months. Just want you to know you will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers, and we send you our love and support, and also to Sandra and your family who are going through this with you.
ReplyDeleteLots of love,
Charmaine & William
Peter, we are thinking of you and all of your Family with caring thoughts. Dennis & Janet
ReplyDeletePeter
ReplyDeleteYour wisdom and humour have for so long been an inspiration to so many... and now your courage. Thinking of you, Sandra and your family. With Love, Michelle
Hi Peter
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at his difficult time. I hope you find strength in the upcoming months.
Congratulations on the gold medal achievement with the team...i am so proud of you all.
Patti G
Hi Peter!
ReplyDeleteI meant to drop you a note a couple of weeks back...I was listening to CBC radio and I heard you interviewed for their piece on the pressures leading up to the Games for the home athletes... you actually sounded intelligent...quite unlike you! :-)
Barb and I have satellite radio and also fortunate enough to get both CBC and CTV on the tube being so close to Montreal! :-) :-)...I was an Olympic "junkie" for a couple of weeks! ...nothing like it as you know!....some awesome stories!
It was good to hear your voice and to bring back some good memories!!!...the t-shirt is still in use!!!
Terribly rotten news about your cancer...but I KNOW you'll get thru it!
My assistant here at Univ. of Vermont has just come through a VERY similar situation...his dentist identified a "problem about a year and a half ago...tongue and throat....he went thru some rigorous chemo but has emerged with flying colours...he was back at work this year and got a "clean bill" in the fall.
I won't pretend it was easy or fun (you know better) BUT IT IS beatable and I KNOW your irrepressible spirit will win out!
Barb and I will keep you in our prayers...fight hard!...I will be thinking of you!
I still wear a "Skating Against Cancer...Go Gilly Go!" bracelet that we (our team) sold on Mike's behalf to raise some research money...it now has new meaning!
Go Peter Go!!!
Hi Peter,
ReplyDeleteI want to send along my well wishes. I know I don't have to tell you about the power of positive thinking but I wanted to let know that you'll be in my thoughts and I'll be thinking of you positively! Please let me know if there is anything that I can do to lend a hand or support in any way.
Sincerely,
Dan Church
PJ
ReplyDeleteYou know Shelley, Delaney and I are thinking about you everyday. You will always have our support - all you have to do is ask! Also - good luck trying to beat my Drop7 high score.
Doug, Shelley and Delaney
Hi Peter: Was very sadden to learn from you about you upcoming battle. However, having lived through chemo and radiation with three family members, I can tell you that attitude is everything! You are certainly on the right track with all that you are doing and your positive outlook. But remember, that on those days when you are feeling yucky, there is a whole team of us out here cheering you on and here for support for you and Sandra. Keep up the positive spirits, go with the flow, allow yourself the time to heal and the permission to take it easy to have the energy to fight the good fight. Any ya, the glass is more than half full !!
ReplyDeleteHope to see you soon.
Eric LeBlanc
Hi Peter--was in at Mariposa today and heard the news. You have been such a powerful inspiration to others-- in sharing your teachings, in supporting their successes for so many years. Now it is your turn to utilize all of your knowledge, and gifts that you have, and apply it for 'self',..... to co-create your success along with your practionners and family--THAT will be a powerful combination indeed! To that end, so many others are behind you and your family all the way. You have taken time for so many, and have made a difference! Now take the time that you need. Best Wishes and Special Thoughts go out to you!
ReplyDeleteSue Croft
Star Performance
Hi Peter, Was just informed of your news from Mel this past weekend. Obviuosly a hurdle but one I know you will step over with ease. You are in my thoughts and prayers!!
ReplyDeleteNancy Wilson
Hi Peter and Sandra
ReplyDeleteFirst the twittering now the blogging, great ideas to help us share important life experiences, both good and bad. When I was entering highschool my mother told me "surround yourself with good people and good things will happen". If this blog is a testament to your surroundings,,,great things are a given!!
Don't hesitate to call if you need anything
You are all in our thoughts are prayers.
Keep Smiling
Mary Lou and Tim
Peter - I have heard about this challenging journey you are setting out on from my Mom. It sounds as if you are surrounded by love and caring which will serve you well. I will be sending you healing vibes, and I admire your positive outlook and determined take charge approach to this hurdle.
ReplyDeleteJoanna Jackson
HI Peter
ReplyDeleteNow it's your turn for the rest of us to give back some of that positive energy you have been so generous doling out to everyone. Your positive outlook as always been such an inspiration for those around you so now sit back and feel the good vibes coming your way.
We're cheering for you Peter - it's your turn to win.
Lots of hugs coming your way.
Sheila
Hi Peter,
ReplyDeleteYour positive attitude and formidable resolve will no doubt help to ultimately defeat this foe. Be assured that your extensive support group is with you on every step of your marathon.
Rick Jackson
Hello Peter,
ReplyDeleteI just heard the news from Julie E... it sounds like a tough battle is ahead, but I know your postitve attitude and strength will see you though this.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer Barbosa, QEDC
Hi Peter, my thoughts and prayers and best wishes are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteHang in there,
Barbara Dickson
"Glass Half Full" - no better phrase for you!
ReplyDeleteI know that your positive perspective and attitude will provide you with the strength you need during this time. I just came across a quote about overcoming obstacles.....it makes reference to the Olympics too so it made me think of you.
"The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well."
I think you know by now you're an inspiration to me. My thoughts and prayers are with you Peter. I send you hugs and smiles!
Pam Fountas, QEDC :)
Hi Peter,
ReplyDeleteJill has kept us posted on all your successes over the years. What a track record of success! With all that brain power , we are sure you will be better soon . Your comments provide soulfull medicine for us less cerebral types. I still want to play tennis with you next time you are out here. All the best from your West Coast In(Out) -laws...Dylan,Yupa,Karen,Fay,Kyle,Sean,Bruce
Peter - I am having no luck posting messages but thought I would try one more time. Chris and I want to add our name to the list of people who are praying for you to beat this battle as quickly as possible. Your humor and optimisim are inspiring. Day by day is what I have heard is how people get through it. Keep in mind at the end of the 7 weeks there is this beautiful baby boy that needs to meet his Grandpa Peter. What is that saying in sport "no pain no gain"... sounds like that might be the same for this dam cancer. We are keeping a close eye on your little girl out here... she is strong like her dad. With love Chris and Jill
ReplyDeletePeter, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family from all of us here at the Donald Gordon Conference Centre.
ReplyDeleteYou will get better or what will become of the "Hosta backup plan?"
Alex and staff