Saturday, April 3, 2010

You should feel very fortunate that I do the updates on the weekend. Had I done it yesterday or any day since Tuesday's chemo the 'Whine' factor would have been much higher! Nausea, even when the medication prevents 'upheavals' is very very unpleasant. The meds also introduce some other 'fog' between me and the world...more than normal that is.
The 'lump' on the side of my neck has shrunken considerably which led to much inner speculation on my part as to the need for such radical, long term treatment. Psychologically I am trying, of course, to find an escape hatch out of this ordeal. A Thursday meeting with John, radiologist/oncologist makes it clear that we stay the course.
There have been many adjustments to my radiation mask in an attempt to get me into the exact position needed for treatment. In the end it all comes down to shims, wedges, and the odd piece of padding stuck here or there. Robin, our hockey trainer, would have been ideally suited to help them out in that regard.
Exciting week ahead. Daily radiation with a big 'feeding tube' meeting on Tuesday and the installation of said tube on Thursday. It goes in through the stomach wall and into the small intestine. Not stitched in but rather taped on the outside. Sandra is pushing for a larger tube so we can actually put nutrition into me as opposed to their version of 'ensure'. That many be a bit of a battle. We'll see.
Hope you all have a wonderful Easter weekend. Have the 20 month old twins coming over Sunday to liven things up. Will update you all next weekend. Once again...thanks for all the support!

6 comments:

  1. I'm sure Robin would be very to happy to know that he made it into your blog! Good luck with things this week, and enjoy those little twins! Happy Easter to you and your family.

    Much love,
    Appsy.

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  2. So many pieces of this puzzle coming together so quickly for you. Its all progress!

    Keep Smiling,
    Mary Lou

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  3. Hi Peter: Ken,Alanna,Drew and I want you to know that we are thinking about you often. Hopefully you will be feeling good quickly once your treatments are done so that you can rest and recuperate at the cottage this spring. Take care and good luck. Love Michele :)

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  4. Peter,

    Hope the "intubation" went well (I guess I have seen too many doctor shows - it's probably called something completely different).

    Charles tells me that the whole experience so far has been less fun than expected, especially the chemo. My brother Gord went through chemo for Hodgkins about 25 years ago and does not look back on it fondly.

    Mary and the notso youngsters send their best wishes ...

    BCK

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  5. Hi Peter:

    Just a short note to let you know that my thoughts are with you. I know you are the glass half full to overflowing kind of guy and that your uber positive attitude should give you every advantage as your take this personal health journey. Peggy has kept me updated and I will follow your blog with hope and good wishes.

    Peter, you sure set the bar at a new high for how to deal with curve balls. I know that many will find inspiration in your comments. I wish you well.

    Richard

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  6. Hi Peter,
    I just had lunch with Steve and he told me about your bout with cancer and he also sent me the link to your blog. My thoughts are with you and Sandra. You are very courageous to commit to write the blog on a regular basis. I will be following it and commenting as I am inspired. You are a special person and you are demonstrating it even when facing a most difficult challenge.
    Ezra

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