Thursday, December 11, 2008

I'm back!

I probably shouldn't have left you all hanging with that last blog because many think I'm still dog tired and not up to much at all. I am getting better. I forgot to mention in my last blog that after my transplant I also had a platelet transfusion (because I had low platelets). While the transfusion was dripping through my IV I noticed it wasn't my blood type. I mentioned it to the nurse but they told me it wasn't the "whole" blood, only the platelets and not to worry. Good thing because the bag was half empty already. I also had a high fever the whole time I had the runs and the nurses were always trying to bring it down. I told them I didn't feel like I had a fever - they were amazed at that.

Anyway six days after coming home I had to go back to London for a check up. I did blood work and an hour later the results were in. I'm always amazed at how fast they get the results because the cancer floor alone deals only in blood work for results and there are hundreds of people coming in a day doing blood work. In the appointment with my doctor they said my blood work was good and the white cell counts were the same as any healthy person. A normal white count is between 4 and 7 1/2. Mine count was 7.2. They said I was normal and could fight off a cold like any other person. I said, "what's normal, cancer free?". They said "we can't guarantee that we got every cancer cell". When I got home I told Pete and the kids that I was normal. The kids cheered and asked if they could tell their teachers for prayer request. I said ,"no not yet, it all seems a little fast". Two days later I went to my family doctor and asked what normal meant. All he said was only God knows if the cancer is going to come back. I know that too. He also said I didn't look skeletal like some of his other cancer patients coming out of the hospital. I said "I know I thought I would lose a lot of weight too, so I ate a lot before going into the hospital that way I could live off body fat for about a week in case I lost my appetite". He just laughed and suggested I write a book, it would be quite funny. I was still hesitant about telling people that I was normal because I wasn't sure myself if that meant remission yet or not.

Two weeks after coming out of the hospital I went back to London to get my permcath taken out. A friend brought me and it was only going to take about half an hour. I was brought into a room that looked like a recovery room with four beds along each side. I was told the doctor would be coming soon. When the doctor came I asked if he could talk me through the procedure. Next thing I know the nurse closes the curtain around us and we are all ready to take this thing out! I said, "we are doing this right here?". When I had the permcath put in there was stainless steel all around me with bright lights and a multitude of monitors. Now there was a little bed with a beige curtain wrapped around the nurse, doctor, me and a small tray of tools! Talk about being nervous! The doctor was getting ready to start when I thought to bring up the topic of freezing. He said, "this permcath has been in for four weeks so there is a possibility that tissue may have grown around the tube in my chest. If it's tough to pull out than we'll come in with heavy freezing". I said, "hey, I know, let's do the freezing right now". The doctor just rolled his eyes like I was just prolonging everything. Finally he said,"fine, but it's really going to prick you and than sting like crazy". I thought, alright - at least I know what to expect. After bathing my chest in the famous pink iodine he came with the needle to freeze me. I felt a small prick and nothing else. He gave me three needles on one side of the tube and three on the other side and actually pointed it straight down! I thought there has got to be a lung there or something vital down there, but all was well. The doctor had an expression like I should be in pain, but I have had more needles in my life - the way he talked I figured it would be something to worry about. Anyway, I just looked at a spot on the ceiling and the doctor starting pulling on the tube (he forgot to take out one of the stitches). I felt a lot of tugging and pulling again. Every time it got a little stuck he came with a little scalpel and then started pulling again. I wondered how anyone would do this without freezing. When it finally popped out it made a suction noise and gushed with blood. The tube still held the shape of a "j" (from going over the collar bone). The doctor left and the nurse stayed and kept pressure on the wound. It looked like a bullet hole, mind you I've never been shot before. It bled through the bandage, so I had to have a big dressing on it. A week later it closed (no stitches) and now I'm left with a scar. Finally I can take a normal shower without having to wrap in Saran wrap!! Such simple pleasures we take for granted.

On November 10 I went to the hospital in Owen Sound for my monthly IV. That is the drug that takes the calcium floating around in my blood and sticks it to my bones again. After the IV I met with my oncologist and talked about how things were going since leaving London. My bones had been hurting again especially in my hips and lower back. I didn't have bone pain for two weeks before London and the first week in the hospital - I felt great, but now the pain was back again. I wasn't too worried though because I knew the chemo was going to eat away at the marrow in my bones. The way I figured it all was that the pain would only be temporary. The oncologist didn't like that I had pain as bad as I was saying. I would wake every hour because my hip would hurt and than I would have to roll over again for about an hour until I would wake up from the pain of the other hip. This would go on all night. She gave me some break through pills for the pain. She also thought it could be from the chemo and wanted me to keep an eye on the pain for the next month. I asked her what normal meant - did it mean I was in remission? She looked at me and said, "you've been in remission since September". I guess it was the steroids that took care of that. She said we couldn't harvest you if you had been full of cancer! Makes sense I guess, but maybe they could have mentioned that a couple months ago. So it's official - I'm in remission! I asked the oncologist if there were any other types of steroids and she said "not really". I said "steroids aren't really good for relationships" (they made me very moody- lots of ups & downs). She told me she knows they are awful, she has a patient who just tried to commit suicide. She also said my body did well with just the basics (steroids & transplant) and that we haven't even gotten into the "goodies" yet. There are so many drugs we haven't tried and if the cancer does come back than I might even be able to have another transplant because I'm so young. Anyway there are still options, it sounded encouraging.

At home I still get help everyday, but now I join in with the chores where possible. We get meals every other day and Pete still drives the kids to school in the morning. He has been plowing lately, but still manages to come home for the kids. We have lots of snow up here and already one snow day.

Next week already I go for my monthly IV and the first week of January I go to London for a check up with the radiation doctor. That is just to see if the pain has gotten better or if I need more radiation anywhere. From now on I get checked every three months with blood work and MRI's to see if I'm still healthy. As time goes on the appointments get further between.

Anyway I should go now, the kids are home. Thanks for the continued support from every one in every way.

Love from Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather & Shaun

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Hello Everyone!!

It has been awhile since the last blog - almost a month! Who knows if anyone is still looking for updates, but some have mentioned lately that they keep peeking once in awhile. I kept telling Pete that I would get to it, but I still get tired easily (mentally too). Well, here I am and getting stronger everyday - there is still a long ways to go though.

On Oct. 15 Pete and I went to the hospital in London. It was chemo day and I must say once we were there I was getting a bit nervous. Like a lady from church here said to me "It's one thing to take drugs knowing that they are going to make you better, it's another thing to take drugs knowing its going to kill everything in your body!" That was exactly how I felt. You are allowing someone to put this "poison" into you, and its going to slowly seep through your body and even into your BRAIN and there is nothing you can do to stop it. What a feeling. My isolation room wasn't quite ready yet so I was put in a ward for the time being. Later they wheeled me into my room. The isolation area was behind the nurses station. There was a big heavy door that led into a hand washing room/file room. Off of this room were three other small rooms, one for each cancer patient in isolation - I had the end room. Once in my room they came in with the chemo bag for my IV. This bag was not very big at all and it looked like water - so innocent looking! The IV went into my permcath which hangs out of my chest and it dripped for 35 mins. That was it. A high dose chemo done in half an hour and I was done with my chemo treatments, how strange when many others have chemo for months! Then the waiting started. I wondered when I would feel it, but I felt fine. I actually went out for dinner that night. The next day was good and the day after too. The 17th I had my transfusion. I was quite eager for this day because I wanted my harvest to start chasing after the chemo that had a two day head start! The doctors kept telling me I had a great harvest so that was even better in my eyes. I was disappointed though when I found out they had mixed my harvest with someone else's blood to dilute my stem cells. The nurse said "Sorry, is that a problem?". I said "Isn't it a little late now?" I took the transplant obviously, but later a doctor told me it wasn't about mixing up some one's blood with my blood. Stem cells are different than blood, blood can be broken up (cells, platelets etc.) and used for different reasons. This person's blood was my type but just there to dilute my stems cells which can be quite "sticky" and get stuck in the lines. The doctor's wanted to make sure every single stem cell of mine made it back into my body. Anyway, I ended up learning a lot about blood in London. I still felt fine and the nurses encouraged me to walk the halls as much as possible, to keep your muscles moving and strong. I asked when is the chemo going to hit me? They said by the following Wednesday (this was Friday).

Pete came on Sunday with kids. They came around noon but weren't allowed in my room because the girls had a bit of the sniffles. So I went out. They have a family lounge room just down the hall from the nurses station. At first Shaun was a little quiet. He was seeing if his mom was still OK or if maybe I was different now with the chemo. It didn't take long before he was saying "Hey mom, guess what happened at school?". The girls seemed alright with everything. It was still me and I still had hair, I was just a bit tired. Later the family took me outside for some fresh air in a wheel chair. I think Pete picked an old relic - I don't even think there was rubber on the tires!! Each of the kids took turns pushing me, I'm sure we hit every curb and bump on the grounds. After we went in and the nurses gave the kids pop and ice cream and pulled a TV into the family room and we watched a movie together. Just before they left at 5 I asked Pete to take the kids real quick to my room. This way whenever we would call each other later on in my stay the kids could picture where I was.

The following days I noticed I was getting a little more tired each day, other than that I was still good. The only problem I had was thinking "OK three more days till Wed., now two more days till Wed etc". Finally it was Wednesday morning and I was still alright. Pete came to see me that day, but after he left everything hit me. I was very tired and my appetite had been slowing down. It felt like I had a real bad flu. The "icing on the cake" was getting the runs though. The nurses wanted a sample to run down to the lab to see if it was an infection or just the runs. Then they would know how to stop it - with antibiotics or just a couple of pills. The next day I was told the lab didn't test for the right things so I had to give another sample. I wasn't walking the halls anymore for exercise but there was no doubt in my mind that I was getting a workout. I ran to the bathroom steady. Every time a nurse came in I would ask "Any news from the lab yet?". The answer was always "No". I thought how could this get any worse - it had been two days! I soon found out. I was loosing too much fluid so they hooked me up to IV. Now I was running to the bathroom with an IV pole that had 5 wheels each going in different directions! By this point I wasn't eating at all anymore. Every time I had to take my pills (morning & night) I would throw them up as soon as they hit my stomach. Most of my pills have to be taken with food. Since I couldn't take most of my pills I had to take them all through my IV except two. The next day still no news about the lab results. Now I was getting a little angry. Just because the nurses forgot to tell the lab what to test for the first time I'm still having the runs with no treatment for it in sight. I asked "Can't you put a rush on my sample, it's been three days!" They couldn't. Just when I thought it couldn't get any worse, it did. Now the nurses wanted to see how much fluid I was loosing, so they put two "hats" (buckets) in the toilet to catch everything. My dilemma now was where to put the toilet paper. I know this is probably gross, but this was my situation. After three and a half days of cramps and throwing up in the garbage (because I had to sit on the toilet for the other end) the lab results came back. I had C-def (an infection in the bowels or intestines). Everyone has this C-def in their bodies, but with my white count being down I couldn't fight it off. I was put on antibiotics and by the end of the day the runs were done.

I had become very weak loosing all that fluid and not eating anything for a couple days. The food tray would come in and I'd try to eat something, at least to get my strength back, but most often I would ask them to take the tray right back out because the smell made me want to throw up. Water was my drink and ginger ale became my "food" (it sat heavier in my stomach than water). I had a few mouth sores, but nothing to speak of, they didn't hurt. I was just very weak and very tired. The nurses are great and always ask "Is there anything we can get you or do for you?" I asked if they called husbands. The answer was yes. I couldn't even phone home I was so weak. For four days they called Pete or Pete would call the hospital for updates. Being 3 hours away didn't help much for Pete or the kids, they couldn't just pop over for a second, so they had to depend on what the nurses were telling him. I was very weak so even filling my cup with water or changing the toilet paper roll was a chore and very exhausting. In the other two isolation rooms there was always family there helping the patient, I had to do everything for myself and maybe that helped me in recovering quicker than usual. During my stay I was also loosing my hair. My scalp was very itchy from the chemo and every time I scratched it I would have 5-10 hairs in each hand. I scratched a lot. Also my bed and especially my pillow had looked like a dog had just shed it's hair in there. Once I got past the runs a nurse came in with the razor and took my hair down to the scalp. It felt very refreshing after all that itching. I recommend a buzz cut to everyone (at least try it once in your life!). At first I looked like my brother Albert. I told him he had a twin. He said, "Everyone wants to look like me". I told him "It cost a lot of money, but it was worth every penny!".

In my room the nurses hung a chart that listed all the results from my blood work. Every morning between 4 and 6 the nurses would come in and take a couple tubes of blood and flush out my permcath (to prevent blood clots). By breakfast the results would be posted on the chart, just like a report card. Of course the only section I (or any cancer patient) was interested in was the white cell count. When I first came to the hospital they were exceptionally high because of the drugs I took with the needle in my stomach. With each day after chemo the count would drop. It had to get to .05 and that is how low the computer could read it. It stayed at that number for maybe four days (everyone is different) and than it started to climb as I got better. It was when mine was so low that I couldn't call Pete or eat my food and was very weak. Once it started to climb it was going up a full number each day. I was trying to walk the halls to get my strength back and eating my food (even if it was only three bites of soup). The nurses were impressed how fast it was going that on Tuesday a nurse said you might go home soon, maybe on Friday. By Tuesday night they said I could probably go home the next day! I call Pete to see if he could pick me up. It was short notice for him and he had to plan his day. The next morning the doctor came in and said I could go home. I stayed till dinner time Wed. so Pete could get some work in. At 9:00 pm I was home! It worked out well that the kids had Thurs. & Fri. off and happened to be invited to some cousins houses. This way I could rest (they didn't know I came home till after they came back Sunday night).

Since coming home I have become stronger everyday. At first I would get out of bed and get a bowl of cereal and right away lie down on the couch all weak and shaking. Or after a quick shower I would jump back in bed before I could get dressed because it felt like I would faint. Now I can set the table, put dinner in the oven (which someone kindly made), eat and maybe help clear the table. Then I'm finished. Actually last Wednesday I had a shower, shaved my legs (no, that hair didn't fall out), tried off , dressed and than ran to the couch while saying hello to the helper from church on my way by. Such simple things, but major improvements to me. I even managed to make one service the past two Sundays, mind you I cling to Pete when we have to stand. It's one thing to be up and move around, it's another when you just stand. After church I talked to people, but than all of a sudden it hits me and I have to go and sit in the vehicle. Last Sunday I was starting to sweat because all of a sudden it's too much. I also wear my wig (the only times I've worn it, usually I wear a winter hat at home or go bald) which Pete likes. Actually I get a lot of compliments on it - it makes me look foxy! It colour is called "cherry cola", it's dark hair with cherry red in it. It comes to my jaw line and it's straight hair. It's the only day of the week I dress up - maybe that's why Pete likes the look. Usually I'm in comfy lounge clothes at home.

By the way most of the hair on my head fell out (lot's since coming home - especially after my showers) and some of my eye lashes (more from my right eye - not that you could tell), I was afraid to use my mascara thinking the hair would all stick to the wand! My arm hair hasn't budged - of course. My leg hair didn't fall out either, so Pete kindly asked that I maybe shave it some time. So I did and since than (a week ago) nothing has grown back.

Anyway, there is more to tell since coming back, but I'm going to make this blog a "to be continued" blog because I'm getting tired and my back is getting sore. I'll try to get back on tomorrow.

It's amazing the amount of mail I've gotten. I bought a big card box and It's over flowing!! Plus a ton of emails have come either to the hospital or here at home. The nurses were impressed at my mail flow. Anyone who mailed me in London and wonders whether I got their mail after I left for home, it's all being forwarded here - still to this day! I also have meals coming regularly and a helper comes every morning Monday - Friday. We are all definitely being taken care of and none of it is taken for granted. All of you have been amazing to us through the past months. We couldn't have done it without all of your ongoing support in all of your own ways. Thank you!!!

To be continued.....

Love Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather & Shaun.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

October 30th, 2008

Hi Everyone!

Sorry it's been a bit since the last update. I just have a lot on the go, sort a running around like a chicken with it's head cut off! Sunday, I visited Sharon and there was a big improvement, she looked and felt a lot better than the week prior. Monday, I got a call around 4pm from her and she said that the doctor came to see her and said: " If this keeps up, you might go home sooner than later! ". Well, good news, I picked her up last night. She is now at home in Owen Sound. She'll have to go back for some check-ups but some of them can be done in Owen Sound Hospital.
Please do not call her at home at this point, she is very weak and still has quite sometime to recover. Our home e-mail is psoosterhoff@sympatico.ca. The ladies of the church have thing covered to help her out during the day as well as medical care.
The kids and I are just fine and looking forward to a speedy recovery.
Thank you so much for all your prayers for our family, especially for Sharon. " For He is control of All Things"

Love,
Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun

Thursday, October 23, 2008

October 23rd, 2008

Hi Everyone!

Wow! It sure is nice to see the response Sharon is setting via e-mail, young and old. I took the kids to see her on Sunday to show them where their mother is staying, we had a nice visit. Sharon was pretty tired but enjoyed our company and the kids loved it too! I went and visited her yesterday afternoon, she is at her low now .5 and will be like this for 4-10 days, everyone's different, then she will start on the UP hill. She was very tired and she had bad diarrhea, which takes a lot out of her as well. She has not been eating very much either, just the smell of food makes her not want to eat (Not like her at all!), so they started feeding her through IV.
We all continue to pray for a good recovery so that she might soon be in our presence as a mother, wife and a sister to all that love her.
I would like to personally thank you all very much for helping us out. Hats off to all of you mothers out there. You do so much for families in need, as well as your own!

God bless and thank you for your continued support!

Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun

Saturday, October 18, 2008

October 18th, 2008

Hi Everyone!!

So far everything is well with Sharon. She has had chemo on Wednesday and on Friday, they re infused her with her stem cells. She is in isolation and pretty tired but still has good spirits. If you want to send cards to Sharon, the hospital address is:

Sharon Oosterhoff C7-214
Victoria Hospital
800 Commissioners Rd East
London, ON N6A 5W9

She also has e-mail there and probably will not return all e-mails sent to her: sharonoosterhoff@gmail.com
Please do not call the hospital and bug the nurses, they have enough to deal with.You can also call me at 519-374-9911.

The kids and I are fine and making out with everything. Thanks for all your concerns, thoughts and prayers.

Much Love,

Pete, Sharon and kids

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Hi everyone:

Things have been a little busy lately. I have my hair chopped off - almost. We kept some on in case I'm left with a little hair and can "blend" some in with my wig. I don't like my hair like this, I was hoping to get it real short. When my hair starts to grow again I think I'll grow it out. I did buy a wig and now I'm going to be a red head!! Actually it's brown with red highlights and it's a bunt cut just below my jaw. People tell me they like my wig better then my hair cut (so do I). Natasha also got 10 inches cut off her hair to donate to the cancer society. We still have to bring her pony tail away. That was quite a change for her too since she's always had long hair. Now it's just past her shoulders. I also got new glasses. I only need them for driving at night or if I'm in an unfamiliar area and need to see the signs that are far away. I figured I'd get new, updated glasses so that if my eyebrows fall off I can put my glasses on in there place!

The first week of October I had a VON nurse come to the house to give me my Neupogen medication. This medication stimulates my cells for the harvest. She put the needle into my stomach. She had asked me if I was OK with getting the needle there. I just grabbed a handful of my growing "insulation" - a result of my eating habits - and told her to shoot away. The next day she asked if I wanted to give myself the needle. Once the syringe was full I aimed at my stomach and stabbed like a dart (just like she instructed) and it bounced right off my belly! It went in on the second shot. The nurse was actually impressed and said she probably wouldn't come the next day, I could do it myself. The next day all went smoothly. The Neupogen made my bones ache for a couple hours afterwards.

Monday night a friend and I went to London so I could be there early Tuesday morning. I had to fast from midnight on because my permcath was scheduled for 10 am. I was a bit nervous about this procedure because I didn't know exactly what was all involved. The patient before me was supposed to have a 20 minute procedure but it turned out to be 3 hours! You can imagine I was starting to get hungry, it wasn't too bad. They brought me into the operating room and put me on a skinny little table so I asked if the table came with seat belts, the answer was no. Next they put oxygen tubes in my nose, a blood pressure band on my arm, and the heart monitor on my finger. The nurses rubbed pink iodine over my right shoulder and chest (the stuff stains) and paper blankets over my head (which had to be craned to the left) and shoulders. The doctor talked me through the whole thing. Over the bed there was six monitors so the doctor could do the procedures guided by ultra sound and x-ray. I was hoping to watch but my head had to be turned and I had a blanket over my head. The doctor put freezing in the right side of my chest(just above the breast) and another just above my right collar bone. Then he put three 1 cm cuts, one above the collar bone, one just below the collar bone and the other part way down my chest. A tube was inserted in the chest cut and pushed up and over the collar bone and curved back down into a vein right beside the jugular in my neck. I was awake through it all and could feel the pushing, tugging and pulling. There wasn't that much pain - it was bearable. I always expect the worst and than it's never as bad as I think. I was supposed to be in there for about an hour but everything went a lot quicker, apparently I have nice big veins. I wanted to see the tube when the doctor was done but they wanted to bandage it up before germs got in the cuts. When they took everything back off me the last image was still on one monitor. I could see the tube in an upside down "j" and of course my collar bone, ribs and spine. It was kind of neat to see. On the outside all you see is the tube coming out of the skin with two capped three inch tubes off that! No more needles anymore, everything can be done through the permcath. It was over, I could relax again and enjoy a much anticipated lunch! I also had to give myself another Neupogen needle while in recovery. This time I hit a blood vessel, the nurse thinks, because I got a tiny purple bruise. After two hours I could go back to the hotel. Once the freezing thawed it was quite tender. I'm not allowed to get it wet and the dressing gets changed once a week.

At 7:30 Wednesday morning my friend and I went to the hospital for the cell harvest. First I had to give blood (through the permcath!!) to see if I had a good enough cell count to even have a harvest. If the count was below 5 I would be sent home, and I could try again in two weeks. The doctor was looking for a certain cell type, the CD34 . The lab called back and said my count was 83 - so real good! I was hooked up to the dialysis machine which is quite big with lots of dials, tube lines, fluid bags and lights. About four bags had fluid, one had my plasma, another saline, another my harvest and blood thinners combined with calcium in the last one. They rinse my harvest bag clean with my plasma so that when my harvest comes into it - it won't react to any other kind of cleaner. One line takes blood from me and another brings it right back into my body. The machine has layers of tubes in it and a warmer so that the blood I get back is warm again. The machine spins my blood around and takes only the top layer of thin, immature CD34 white blood cells of the immune system. Each time a harvest is made it's only about a tsp amount. Right away after another "tsp" pushes the harvest into the tube so that it makes its way into the bag. I needed to make 18 harvests. You could tell when a harvest was happening because one of the dials would spin around really fast and there was a monitor attached to the machine to tell you. At 1:20 I was unhooked and allowed to go but I had to call back around 3 pm to see if the harvest was good enough. They called me and said the harvest went really well - it was an abundant harvest in their words. Usually people who have had radiation don't make a good harvest, so I've been blessed. Now I wouldn't have to do another harvest on Thursday, we could go home. A social worker took my friend and I up to the 7 th floor where I will be staying next week. She told us things I could bring and expect. She also said visitors weren't really recommended except for some family. Most patients are very tired or not up to visitors and it just puts pressure on them when someone shows up at their door. Also germs are a big issue. All that's left now is the chemo next week and the re-infusion of my harvest. Hopefully its all uphill from there (after some sick time). I'm looking forward to getting the next week done.

Pete's now had some practise at being dad & mom. He even did Shaun's birthday party last Friday. I had another migraine and was throwing up because of it. I called Pete at work and he came to get the van so he could pick up all the kids and take them to the bowling alley. He came home and said "what a work out", I said "welcome to motherhood!". I'm sure he will do fine while I'm in London. There is plenty of back up help too.

Pete and I are going to London next week Tuesday which happens to be our 13 th anniversary. I don't think we will ever forget this one! Fall is my favourite season and it's going to be beautiful this weekend. I'm going to enjoy Thanksgiving before I'm contained to the 7 th floor of a hospital.

Through the past five months though I've been blessed through all of my tests and treatments. Things could have turned out so different, I could have had more side effects, been depressed about things or stuck in bed all the time. All things have gone fairly smoothly and results have been quite positive. So there is much to be thankful for and nothing to complain about (except the steroids maybe - but I've been done them for two weeks!!!). The Lord has been good to me and the family. He has always given me a sense of peace through everything and that's why I'm not worried about next week or what comes after that. The support of everyone has also been a comfort and strength to my family whether by prayers, cards, thoughts, meals, housework, visits etc. It's all been much appreciated. I guess Pete will be writing the blogs to fill you all in on how I'm doing from now on!

As for God, His way is perfect.
All the Lord's promises prove true.
He is a shield for all who look to Him for protection. Ps. 18:30

Have a blessed Thanksgiving weekend and thank you to all for your continued support.

Love from Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather & Shaun

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Hey everyone:

Well, Pete and I went to London Tuesday. Actually we left on Monday night because my appointment was early Tuesday morning. I can't handle driving for five hours and do four to five hours of testing in one day. I will tire out and get way too sore. After a hearty breakfast we got to the hospital a bit early and registered in. They right away sent me for blood work (eight tubes) and then I went to get a chest X-ray and last was sent for an ECG. The tech put about twelve stickers on me and clipped on the wires, I was just settling back when she ripped all the wires & stickers off - I was done already!! In between those three tests I had to fill out the same form I do every time I go to London - all about your symptoms and if anything has changed or if you need a social worker etc. Everything was running on schedule and we met the doctor on time to discuss the transplant. First I had to have a physical and than we went over any questions. Apparently I will still be feeling pretty good after I get chemo on the 15th of October. The doctor said I could go out on day passes or out for dinner/shopping whatever. I was surprised. The side effects won't hit until six to eight days later - than I have to be very careful!

I was supposed to have a tour of the 7th floor where I will be living for three weeks, but the nurse was tied up in a family crisis and they don't let people just wander around up there. They did show me where I would get dialysis done. They said don't drink too much water because you can't drag that machine into the bathroom like you would an IV pole! Instead it's the "trusty" bed pan. It looks like I'm able to go through with the transplant from the test results they have so far. There was a nurse that retired in London in the last couple days/weeks and she was in charge of doing the transplants from a sibling to a patient. Now there is a huge waiting list until they hire a new nurse. Thankfully I'm my own donor and there are nurses and doctors to carry out my procedure. Pete and I got out of London a lot sooner than expected and made it home at a decent time. I napped on the way back of course!

The last two weeks I have been getting more sore and achy and the pain begins to burn a bit. My skin feels like it would when you have the flu and it hurts to brush your hair or wear a shirt against your skin. I have a bit of a bloated tummy from the steroids (and maybe my appetite). The other night at dinner the kids eyes lit right up and they squealed "Your pregnant!!". I said "Nooo, the drugs would not be good for the baby - I'm not pregnant". "Well", they said, If you WERE pregnant how far along would you be?". "Four months!" I answered.

It's almost time for the next haircut - Oct. 1 - I'm going short. That will last till I go to the hospital. At first I thought to just shave my head the day before I go in so I don't have to worry finding a razor at the hospital. The doctor told me not to shave it off because they don't want nicks on my scalp. (The nurses will do it when my hair falls out). He did say to go wig shopping. There is a place about half hour away from here where a lady has a business in her home. She books fittings for just one customer at a time so we aren't rushed. The girls want to come with me. It's almost like a bridal fitting except we are just doing the headpieces!

I have one more stretch of steroids (four days) and than I hope to never have to take those again. I'm looking forward to having my own moods backs - which are usually good. I hate what the drugs do to you (for me they make me very grumpy and moody), it hasn't be fun for my family or me! Anyway, the first week in October I will be getting a new drug to get the stem cells moving, healthy and multiplying so that by the 7th of October I can get a permcath and have dialysis and get a good enough harvest. On Oct. 14 (Pete's & my anniversary) we'll be going to London so I'm there for the transplant and the month.

Well, I was reading my daughter a book for bed, but she took over the reading and I fell asleep. Now that the blog is updated I should probably get to bed myself. In all things I leave it with the Lord to see how He sees best to deal with all these tests and appointments. I will show up for everything and know that He will hold my hand and hold my family till all this is done.

Thanks again to everyone for the endless support and love!!

Love Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather & Shaun

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Hi everyone:

Last week I went to my family doctor for a check up and to update him on all the tests and things I've had to do. Basically, I told him I'm a healthy cancer patient!! He said, "Um, okay I'll put that on your charts and let all the other doctors know". He started to laugh a bit. I don't imagine he gets told that everyday! He said he was going to come and do a house visit because he'd been getting a lot of info on me, but hadn't seen me in a while. I said he was welcome any time and actually thought that was quite nice (he's a VERY busy man). The reason I said I was "healthy" was because all the tests were coming back pretty good, my cell count was good, the calcium in my blood is doing it's job, blood work is good etc. So I told him my opinion on the whole situation. Obviously I'm not a doctor, but I'm a good patient!

Last week before all the rain I decided to cut the grass. There was a lot of jolting happening in the back yard and I think maybe I hurt my back doing that (maybe I'm not a good patient). Anyway, the pain seems to be getting worse since Sunday/Monday especially and I figured it might ease up or go away. The steroids are supposed to help with the bone pain and I started those up again today, but the pain is still there. I went to oncology after I got the kids from school just to let them know this was happening (they said to inform them of any different/unusual pain that I might have) and they decided to schedule a MRI on my full spine and back hip bones. Then I have to go to oncology for an update on the MRI. Hopefully they don't have to radiate anything before the transplant because that just won't work out with the stem cell harvest. We'll see what tomorrow brings.

That's the update for now, I have to get dinner on the table. Thanks for the done of cards and emails this week, I really appreciate it. Also a bunch of girls from school might try and come up in the next couple days to visit! All the support is wonderful. Oh, Pete said he can't wait to update the blog - something about my eating habits. Most cancer patients lose their appetite but mine is good....REEEALLY good!!!!

Love from Pete, Sharon & kids.

Monday, September 8, 2008

Hello:

Thursday I went to London with my friend for a follow up on the radiation I had in July. It was something I probably could have done over the phone. The doctor wanted to know if the radiation helped - my back does feel much better since the radiation, it doesn't hurt as quickly as it used to. They want me to come back in January for another follow up. We did get to the Mandarin again though!!
On Friday I went to Owen Sound and had a breathing test done. I had to sit in this "plastic bubble" - it reminded me of a mini helicopter cockpit. I thought of all the astronauts practising for space! I had to put my mouth around this big air tube and have a clothespin on my nose and than they shut the door on me. Through the speaker the tech would tell me how to breath. First I had to breath normal and suddenly take a deep breath in and right away blow out as hard and fast as I could. The second set I had to pant like a dog and resistance would build up in the tube so I couldn't breath anymore. The third set they put oxygen through and I had to breath it in and do what I did in the first set but just normal paced. Than it was all done. I also had to do blood work. After blood work I went to the van and I noticed the inside of my elbow where I had the needle was all swollen in a big cone shape bubble and was blue. I went back to the lab and asked the tech that took my blood what she thought of it - maybe an air bubble? She said it wasn't an air bubble, but it would probably bruise (as I'm looking at my blue arm). I asked if I should worry about it and she said no. The kids were quite impressed when I picked them up but also a little grossed out. The next morning the bubble was gone and a few new colours joined in with the blue shades.
Saturday I ended up with a migraine and threw up in Shopper's Drug Mart (an employee managed to get me to the bathroom just in time). What a proud moment. The headache lasted through till Monday.
This morning I went to the Owen Sound hospital for my monthly 2hr IV which every time gets better results. The calcium floating around in my blood is starting to stick to my bones. The oncologist was behind today so I saw the nurse who said I was doing really good with all my tests results so far and monthly check ups. This afternoon I had a muga test - which is a test that checks the blood pumping through my heart. I had a needle (in the other arm!) which had a drug that sticks to my blood cells. Twenty minutes later the tech gave me another needle with a nuclear drug that would stick itself onto the first drug. Than they brought me to the same room that I had my bone scan in and lay me back on that skinny bed that they strap you onto so you don't fall off. The tech put patches on my chest and stomach with wires to monitor my heart while they took three pictures -five minutes per picture. The camera is the big monitor screen that they lay a centimeter from your chest. It's kinda claustrophobic and I couldn't nap like I usually do through all my tests.
Tomorrow I go to my family doctor and there won't be anything to say about that visit. On the 23rd is the visit to London for the rest of the tests. So far so good. Anyway, that's all for now. I still tire easily, but since the kids have gone to school I don't get mentally tired as quickly.
Thanks to you all for remembering our family and we'll see when the next blog is.

Goodnight,
Love Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather & Shaun.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

September 3, 2008

Hi to everyone!

It's been awhile since the last blog update, actually a whole month!! August was a quiet month and our family took a couple weeks of camping in. The first week was very relaxing after a busy July of doctor's appointments, but the second week started to tire me out mentally. By the end of summer everything became overwhelming. Phone calls, people asking about doctor's appointments, the kid's bickering, trying to take care of myself and still run the household. (This is when the family ran away to camp - just to get away from everything). When I'm on all these drugs and off again it takes a toll on you mentally and you become very irritable about everything! I seem to snap at everyone, especially my own family, and that's hard to deal with because they aren't doing anything wrong. You can't really control it though, but you feel bad for doing it all the time. It's nice that the kids were looking forward to school and I was looking forward to some down time myself. I seem to be really tired all the time, but now that I can rest during the day again hopefully that will get better too.
This week I have doctor's appointments everyday. London wants to start all kinds of tests on me to see if I'll physically be up to doing a stem cell transplant. In Owen Sound I'll be doing all kinds of blood work, 24 hr urine test, a breathing test and a heart test. My lungs, kidneys and heart have to be in good shape or I won't even be allowed to follow through with the procedure. Later in the month I go to London for another four hours of testing. More blood work, chest x-rays, an ECG and a physical. Than they give me the tour of the area where I'll be living for a couple weeks after the transplant. I'll also be getting a permcap in above my heart for all the meds and will also act as a feeding tube if I can't eat on my own.
Come the first week of October I'll have a nurse come in everyday for a week and inject me with drugs to get the stem cells moving and healthy. At the end of the week they do dialysis (harvest) in London and hopefully they get a good "crop" or else I'll have to stay for another day of dialysis. On October 15 I get a heavy dose of chemo to kill everything off in my body and on the 17th the doctors will transplant my thawed healthy stem cells back into my body. Hopefully this all works because you only get one chance with this transplant in your life. It's nice to have the dates to look forward to and hopefully I can start the long recovery back to good health again.
At first when the doctor called with all the dates, times and procedures I was a bit nervous because everything was suddenly happening. Now I am not nervous, but have peace with whatever happens. I don't look that far ahead, so I have nothing to worry about. It's all about one day of testing at a time. I know the Lord is with me every step of the way and He will guide and protect me in all things. He is our strength when we are weak, our Rock to hold on to!
I almost forgot to mention, I got my hair cut - about 15 in.- and I donated it to the Cancer Society. I'm working my way to baldness. I'm almost due for my next do!! This haircut is about up to my chin I guess. The hairdresser called it a bed-head style, I said "perfect!". The next one is going to be short and wild (I guess another bed-head one!).
Anyway, this is the update for now. By mid October I hope to be on the road to recovery which will still take a couple months, but at least it will be going uphill! I still receive cards in the mail and it's nice to know so many people care about my family and continue to offer help in so many ways. Your prayers keep us going! Thank you to everyone.
Love from Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun.

Monday, August 4, 2008

Hi Everyone,

I have good news!! Everyone at the Lodge thought I was 22! Then they heard my oldest was 11 and they did the math which didn't add up. They said "You mean your not 22?!" I replied that I was a mature young woman of 34. They were floored (about the age, not the mature part). That made my day. (Remember last time I wrote that I still looked like my kindergarten picture - o.k., plus a few years). Also they radiation departments were fighting over me - actually using bribes and everything! On Wednesday morning we had a huge thunderstorm in London and all the radiation machines shut down. (Some patients were a bit nervous going under the machines during the lighting, thinking that they might get a little more than just radiated!) In the hospital they have two halls opposite each other that both have radiation departments. Anyway, I always go to the same machine with the same techs everyday. On Wednesday though our side was an hour backed up by the time the machine was running again, so the tech took me to the other side. She said "You'll like this side because they have a nice new machine. You might not want to come back to us". Once over there the techs said "You'll like it here better, we have nicer machines...and cookies!". When my radiation was done sure enough there came this warm, sugar coated chocolate cookie that was oozing melted chocolate! I'm not a chocoholic, but that was probably the best cookie I have ever eaten! The techs started bragging about their side and that I would never go back, but I told them "I don't know they may offer me lunch or something when they catch wind of this!" (I wasn't shutting any doors at this point). The next day I went back to my usual place and told the techs about the bribery. They said "We heard, they came running over to tell us about it, so we brought you cookies today". Can you imagine I was being radiated for six weeks, I would probably be moved up the food ladder to muffins and even fine dining! No sooner was my radiation done and I lifted my head up to this huge delicious looking cookie. I love being fought over! Well that's my good news.
Life at the Lodge was good. I got to know the people a little better this week. Everyone has a life story, some are sad, some unbelievable, but everyone was so nice. You just connect to them in different ways. One lady asked why I was there. (No one thinks someone as young as me should be there). When I told her, she said "Such a beautiful, beautiful girl. You keep praying and ask God to forgive whatever sin you did and everything will be okay. I will be praying for you too!". I told her "No matter what happens to me I am safe with the Lord." The next day she saw me again and said "Such a beautiful girl. You keep praying and so will I".
I had a friend come up from Monday to Wednesday which was nice. The time there just flies, I think it's because everything is scheduled and the days keep moving along. My friend took me out to a few places even Costco. (We don't have Costco up here). It was fun and made the week go much faster.
Pete and the kids came up Thursday and met all the people at the Lodge. Then we went to the Best Western with a water slide! I was told by the doctors that when you are being radiated you can't go swimming in chlorine pools. This one was salt water but even then they said only for half an hour and then rinse off. The kids swam for three hours and slept like babies. The next day we went for my last treatment (no cookies or lunch). We waited for the radiation doctor to tell me about the CAT Scan I had taken the day before. He thought he saw something on the X-rays on the left side of my chest in the rib and muscle area. It came back clean.
Since coming home the heartburn has been kinda bad. It hurts to swallow food and drink so I just eat soft food and take my time. It's like the food doesn't want to go past my shoulder level. The techs told me my esophagus will feel burned from the radiation. The other thing is I'm really tired from radiation and that might last a couple weeks. Last week I had the runs and stop the shuttle I took to London three times. Proud moments, but they all said "not to worry, it could be any one of us". Good thing we are all going through the same things. This week I've been backed up again and it got so bad that Pete and I spent the Sunday in the ER. After more X-rays to make sure nothing else more serious was wrong and blood work to see the white blood cell count was up, I had two enemas and they wanted to do a third. I said no thanks. They sent one home with me. With all the narcotics I'm taking it's hard to find a happy medium in the bathroom department. This weekend has been kinda lousy that's why the blog was delayed. Sometimes the side effects of everything are worse than the disease.
Anyway, it's good to be home again and have the month of August to hang around with the kids. I have a follow up in London in the beginning of September. This week I go for my three hour IV in the hospital here. Other than that I think it's going to be kinda quiet. That will be nice. There might not be that much news from now til then, but you never know.
Thanks again for your prayers and support. It's very much appreciated!

Love from Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Hi to everyone,

I'm done my first week of radiation, which also means I'm half way done. This first week went well. Not really any major side affects. Half an hour before each zap I take a couple pills to prevent the heartburn and nausea. I've been okay in that department. Actually I feel quite blessed with the treatments. There are others at the Lodge that have open sore, thrush, no appetite, swelling, canes, walkers, oxygen tanks and feeding tubes. Many are side affects from the radiation and\or chemo. It seems the side affects can be more of a downer than the actual cancer. There is always something. For me the worst is a bit a cramping from all the drugs I take and bathroom breaks take a bit longer if you get my drift. This weekend the cramping was bad but turned into the runs and I wasn't sure if I picked up a virus or not. I don't want to pass anything around the Lodge! The doc said I was fine to go back and keep up the last week of treatment. Like I said I have nothing to complain about, I am definitely one of the fortunate ones. Also many of the patients at the Lodge are there for six weeks!! Life at the Lodge is good, the food is amazing and everyone is happy and friendly. All the talk is about the treatments, how is everyone feeling, and symptoms, but that is our life right now. Everyone has cancer. Everyone is being treated for cancer and we all live together in a home for cancer. Everyone is so happy and upbeat though that it isn't even depressing. When you go to the hospital all the hundreds of people you see walking around in the department have cancer and are being treated for cancer. You live in a cancer world literally and you begin to think "Does everyone in the world have cancer or what?". "Is there anyone out there who doesn't have cancer?". It was a new feeling to come home for the weekend and go to the grocery store and bank and realize the world is a bit bigger than the cancer world.

Don't think that I didn't do anything else out in London, the actual treatment is only 15 mins a day. Remember I had my friend with me and we had wheels! (The other patients were jealous - some just stay at the Lodge all day long for six weeks - going home for the weekends). She got her haircut while I relaxed getting a pedicure! My parents also came up at the end of the week and took me out for dinner (sorry to all my brothers and sister for being the favourite one!) and they brought me home the next day. Also with the cancer society they had a seminar at the hospital for women called "Look Good, Feel Better". They started this group because there were two women who were always positive and flying through treatments and doctors would ask them how they did it. They said before treatments we always go get our hair and make-up done and we feel amazing about they way we feel and look, so our outlook on the treatments is positive. The group started asking make-up companies for extra make-up or discontinued lines and would put a box together (worth $300) for cancer patients and teach them how to wear it. So now I have a new line of make-up at home and my girls are very excited to try some on - I'm not one to wear a lot of make-up but I was excited to learn how to do it (and with no hair, some sort of colouring above the shoulders might be nice). After a man came in to talk about wigs and the different types and how to wear and wash them. How to wear hats and scarves. It was interesting. The stem cell doctor told me I would lose my hair which doesn't bother me at all (I can say that now). I have had long hair since kindergarten. Some from school say I haven't changed bit. I don't know if that makes me old fashioned or that I just age nicely!!! Anyway in August I'm going to cut my hair shorter and than September I will go for something short and wild maybe. Might as well play around with it all a bit. The doctor also said my hair will most likely grow back in curly. Perfect I told him, than I'll look like Pete!

Anyway, hopefully next week goes as well as the first week. Another friend is coming with me from Monday to Wednesday if all goes well and than Pete and the kids are coming up Thursday. We are going to show them where I go at the Lodge and hospital and than we will stay at a hotel with big water slides for the last night. A little fun for everyone during a time where there is a bit of waiting and treatments. My children is going camping this week with Pete and his parents. Hopefully the weather holds out for them.

I still love the old fashion mail in my box at the road, all the emails and blog comments. Your prayers, thoughts and help continue to support me and my family. It is all so encouraging!

Love Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

July 23rd, 2008

Well hello again!

For those who thought I was just going to do a report ...your wrong! Yesturday I was in London for Sharon, doc visit and all said and done I took her to the Mandarin for supper, in between plate full, she wrote out the blog so it's another journal (and she ate more than me). I would also like to take this time to thank everyone for the cards,calls and e-mails, what a family we have out there far and near, also the people that ask how my children and I are hanging in. It's a tough road, a lot of weight on our shoulders but still manageable. There's one saying growing up that I'll never forget:"Not a hair will fall from your head if it is not HIS will", now Sharon's turn...

So far radiation is going well, not many side effects. Radiating a 3" long by 1" wide spot on my spine. All I feel is a bit of heat spreading through. Radiation Dr. is ordering CAT scan for my chest, he noticed a spot he wants to look at by the sternum. Pelvic x-ray is not bad, holding off any radiation that would be needed there.
Stem cell Dr. met with us yesturday, he was very blunt and upfront which is good. I have to do about 4-5 rounds of steroids before stem cell dialysis can start, so that will probably happen late September-early October. After harvesting and a machine separating white cells away from the red cells and platelets (we want the white cells) than heavy chemo will start. It will probably make me infertile and bring on menopause early, this is ok with us. The Lord has blessed us with a family. The stemcell harvest is a one time procedure, it gives me a remission of 1-4 years before it will come back. Than they hope to have newer improved drugs to help beat it down, there is no cure, just treatments. These are statistics for people mostly in old age. Hopefully being young and healthy will give me a bit more remission time, only God knows. After transfusion which will cathered above my heart and used to feed me (if needed), it will take 3-6 months to get to the point I'm at today! I can only leave the hospital once I can eat and drink on my own. The hospital stay will be about one month with NO kids visiting and ONLY healthy adults. No colds, coughs, sniffels, fever, etc!! or I'm a goner. There's a 5% chance of not making it through the transplant procedure alone. My immune system will be shot for 1-2 years, I can get shingles, cold sores, viruses, etc., very easy. I was told by the doctor to expect a rough road ahead. One day at the time, today is good we'll see what tomorrow brings! Everything is in God's capable hands.
The lodge doesn't have a pool but they do have all you can eat fruits and unlimited gingerale! The elevator doors open before you get to the next floor. There are no locks on the doors but our closets lock. Bingo is Wednesday, Eurchre on Tuesday, movies on Monday, support group on Thursday, Friday check-out. We are having a good time at the lodge though and the service is great and the people go above and beyond what you'd expect. Many patients talk about their treatments but are always smiling. My friend and I go out at night. After treatments all day, I don't really want to hear about it all night. 2 days down, 8 to go.

Much Love,
Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun

Friday, July 18, 2008

Hello,

I am back from London a little early. Pete and I went to London on Thursday (got bumped a day) to meet the radiologist. At this visit he wanted to get to know us and our situation. He also did an examination -checking all the bones in the neck, collar bone, back and ribs -and he found that I had a broken rib. So that explained some of the pain I've been having, but I think he may have made things worse because he was a bit hard on some spots. Today I've actually taken pain meds in the day because the ribs and spine are quite sore. He also ordered a X-ray on my pelvis because the pain in my hips and lower back have been getting worse too and he wants to be sure there are no fractures before we start anything. At one point in the exam the doctor was squeezing my upper arm and asked if I had swelling there - I told him that's called my muscle! (that's the Nordeman coming out).
The actual radiation will start on Monday and go till Friday and I do this for two weeks. I had to do a "planning CAT scan" yesterday as well. This is where they figure out exactly where the radiation will go in my body. I had to lay face down on the bed and the techs wheeled me into the "big donut" and I wasn't allowed to move a muscle. My head was slightly propped up and so were my legs so I wasn't in the most comfortable position!! Anyway they found the spots on my spine and marked them in ink and then told me they were going to permanently tattoo them on. I asked if they were going to put the needles in and they said it would feel like a bee sting. I don't mind needles at all but I do like to see them coming - kinda hard when you are face down in a backward arch! They said "Here comes the first needle, second and now third". I asked "Those were the bees?". Yes. I said "I was expecting the whole hive!" So it wasn't so bad after all and now I'm the new owner of three "freckle" tattoos. (My kickboxing instructor would be so proud. I was one of the only ones at the club without a tattoo.)
The radiologist did talk to us about the radiation. It's a laser that kills off any cancerous cells in the spine and than hopefully new good cells grow in it's place and repair the bone on its own. This is why its so important to localize the radiation as much as possible so that other bones and tissue won't be affected. The risks of not doing this on my spine are tricky in the sense that the spinal cord going through the bones could get pinched and leave my legs paralyzed and the bladder not functioning. Another option to prevent that from happening is to fill that piece of the spine with cement to keep it from collapsing. Wouldn't that be wonderful - full of concrete AND tattooed! Seriously though it's starting to sink in how serious this could be. I just keep taking things as they come not really looking to much into the future treatments but it is good to hear and prepare for it all mentally. They also told me radiation can make you very tired and can be painful and with each visit it can get worse than the time before. Sometimes it won't hit right away and sometimes people feel nothing. I might have to wear sunscreen after as well because it can leave red spots. Lastly since the radiation is near the esophagus it will cause very bad heartburn to the point of nausea and vomiting. That will be hard on my spine! They said they will give me strong meds to prevent that from happening. I said I had some at home and the doctor said, "No, very strong stuff". So, I'm all set for Monday now. They were going to start me right away yesterday but than changed their minds. Back and forth it went. Pete booked and unbooked the Lodge for me three times! I go to London on Monday now and am in the hospital for 20 mins each day, actual radiation time is 45 sec., the rest is lining up the tattoos. It seems strange to be gone from home that whole time for such a little amount of hospital time! I will definitely get the rest I need and it's a good thing I love to read. A friend offered to stay with me for the first couple of days so that will be fun (if I'm not throwing up and napping on her). This helps out too because Pete is very busy with work and to go to London all the time takes up the whole day. He will still come on Tuesday when we meet with the other doctor about me donating my own cells for the stem cell transplant (another reason they want limited radiation done - so I still have some good stuff to harvest). That's the report up to now. The kids will be staying with others again, at least it's summer time and they can still have fun with family and friends. There have been so many offers from people to take the kids to the beach or to their homes for dinner or to the park. It's a good feeling not having to worry about whether the kids are being cared for or not. It's a load off my mind.
There is still so much to be thankful for even in situations that are trying. I see a lot of kids at the hospital or hear them crying through X-rays and am thankful it isn't one of mine going through it, but rather me. I could be going through this alone, but have a lot of support from everyone. I still feel strong physically but just feel a bit brittle (if that makes sense). The pain is still manageable, it could be worse. There is always something good even in the midst trouble. It's also good to be able to chat to everyone through the blog. I am not one to write in a diary or keep a journal and tuck it away. It's nice to be able to share with everyone.
Thanks to everyone again for your support and prayers! God is good!
Love from Pete, Sharon and the kids.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Hi Everyone:



Monday I went to the hospital for a MRI. I was told I was going in head first and that it might be a bit noisy. I put on a shower cap and then some construction head phones and was rolled into the tunnel. At first it sounded like the theme song to The Rescuers Down Under (kids movie) with all these strange Australian instruments and gongs, then it sounded like someone was hammering away on the outside of the machine which turned into jack hammering, which then just sounded like the neighbour running his lawn mower and I was lulled to sleep!! Every once in a while they would say "We are going to move you now" or "Are you okay in there?". I kept thinking "you keep waking me up". It lasted about 25 mins and it wasn't as bad as I thought. I went to oncology to let them know that I was done so they could hound MRI for results. I was just punching out my ticket to leave the hospital and the machine said "you have 20 mins to leave the parking lot" when the MRI tech came running "Sharon, Sharon (pant, pant, pant) we need you back, we did the wrong sequence. Do you have time?" "20 mins" I said. They offered me a new parking ticket and took me back gowned me up again and wheeled me in for my second nap of the afternoon. This time only 10 mins.
Today I went to my family doctor just for an update and because its protocol when you renew your subscriptions over the phone. He said I look like me yet. Sometimes these steroids can bloat the face and abdomen. At night sometimes my stomach feels a bit stretched but by morning I am back to normal. I was looking on the Internet and the steroids I'm on are a mild chemo - nothing body building about them. Pete said he knew they were chemo. Half the stuff the doctors say go in one ear and out the other, I'm usually tired or my head is in a fog. I like to take someone to the doctors just for the second pair of ears!
This afternoon the oncologist finally called back with the results of the MRI. I have quite a big cut in my spine that will need to be radiated - tomorrow. So I am off the London tomorrow whenever the hospital calls back with a time. She warned me the radiation could be painful right away or might not hit until next week. I'm taking all my drugs with me! They have a Lodge in London close to the hospital that I can stay in, meals included plus a shuttle back and forth. I will be there for three days anyway. Hope to be back for the weekend. It almost sounds like an all inclusive! I'm going to see if they have a pool there!
This past Saturday we had family pictures. My nephew's girlfriend is into photography and does a great job. We went to Inglis Falls and had some shots by the falls and along the trails. Later we went down the road to a farmers field and hopped on some round bales (the farmers were home for dinner). The bales were huge, up to my shoulders! Pete helped me on but I probably should have waited to get help down. I gently slid off by the impact of landing still jarred my back. When I went to oncology on Monday she asked about the pain and I mentioned the family pictures on the round bales. She was stunned and said "Um, don't people usually go to I don't know um..?" "Sears" I said. "Um, yes" she answers. I told her they don't have those kind of props at Sears and they also won't take 200 pictures of you either! The oncologist and I get along quite well actually, she has a sense of humour too, and she doesn't seem that much older than me.
I love to hear from everyone, all the e-mails and cards and comments. The support our family has been receiving has been amazing. All the prayers that carry us, the warm meals at night and the care of the kids and home in the afternoons so I can rest or hibernate and have time to myself. The communion of saints is truly a great gift from God. Hopefully Pete will update the blog while I'm away if anything major comes up. It's great that things are finally happening, but on the other hand - things are starting to happen!! I'm at the point of "let's just do this now". I know that no matter what happens I am safe with the Lord.
Talk to you soon! Love from Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun.

Friday, July 11, 2008

Hello, I'm back again!

The last blog I sent two days ago was posted from my computer at home and mysteriously disappeared. A few minutes later we got a call from Pete at work saying the blog popped up on his screen at work. The blog you read was cut off, so if you think it ended abruptly you are right. Today I had my IV which went fine, I don't mind needles at all. Later I met with the oncologist who booked an appointed in London for July 22 to meet the doctors there (since they hadn't called me yet). I had been having pain in my right ribs again after camping and even went to the ER for the pain thinking something more was wrong but they couldn't find or do anything. The oncologist wants me to go for a MRI on Monday. She thinks the pain in my ribs are the nerves in my spine, but I feel the pain further along on my side. If the lesions (or cuts) in my bones are bigger than they think I will have to have them radiated. They are trying to stay away from the radiation because that will effect the transplants they want to take from myself. Tuesday I'll know for sure if I need radiation. Finally! I have had pain in my ribs since February and no one could explain it and x-rays always show nothing wrong. It's almost half a year later. London will just be to meet the doctors and maybe talk about how to proceed. Today the oncologist started me on another three rounds of steroids. Here starts the roller coaster again. I just have to do what needs to be done, at least I know what to expect. Nothing else to report. The kids are now done swimming lessons and they all passed. Yesterday our son Levi would have been six years old. How time keeps moving.

I have a e-mail address now: psoosterhoff@sympatico.ca

Thank you all for your continued support, prayers and the cards that come in the mailbox - I love it!

Love Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun.

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Wednesday,July 9th

Hello Everyone:



It's been awhile since this has been updated, but nothing new has really happened. We went camping the other week and that was great. All the public schools were still going on so we had the park to ourselves pretty much (five other trailers maybe). It was very relaxing and the weather was good. I've been on steriods to build my body up before they start any treatments. Pete was afraid I'd be a bit more "buff" than him but I told him I was built well enough and he should be more worried about the goatee I was going to grow instead - I might just become more handsome than him! The steriods give you a lot of energy and you stay up almost the whole night. I was on them for four days in a row (40 of them in four days) and than you have nothing for four days and I would just crash. No energy, sleepy and very grumpy too. I didn't even want to hang around with me anymore! The happened for three sessions. The only time I did't crash was when we were camping. The doctor didn't tell me I would go up and down like that so I thought it was just me being a lousy cancer patient before any real treatments even started. It was a bit discouraging but a lady from church went through cancer four years ago and told me it was the drugs. I was glad to hear that! I'm now finished with the steriods (last Thursday) so I've been tired. Mornings are good and I have energy but as soon as lunch is done I need a nap. Just last week they started a scheduled with the ladies from church to come and help with some of the housework and to bring some meals and help with the kids when I nap. The kids have been doing a great job of helping me and doing chores but now that doesn't have to be their whole summer. The thing is I never know how I'll be until I wake up - everything is so unpredictable - and that's why the ladies made themselves available. It's great to have so much support from everyone because I couldn't do it all alone. A lot of the time my days are up and down. Sometimes I'm at peace with everything and know where my help comes from but there are days where I feel God is far away. I think a lot of that comes from not knowing what's going on, or when treatments start, or when I go to London.

Love,
Sharon,Pete and kids

Thursday, June 19, 2008

June 19th, 2008

Hi Everyone!

There isn't a whole lot to update, the MRI was cancelled, they think Sharon doesn't need one at this time. We are waiting for the doctors from London Hospital to call and set times to start the treatments, should be in the next couple of weeks. For now, Sharon has to continue taking steroids which has some side effects, she tires easily and her bones are sore. If you do call, please do so before 8:00 pm or I have to deal with a "grumpy wife"! We will not be home for a week and a half, gone camping.

Thanks again for all your continued support, we surely see the communion of Saints in all of this.

Thank you!
Pete, Sharon and kids.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

June 14,2008

Hi Everyone!

Yesterday, Sharon was called to come to the hospital. She was put on a special IV because they found out that she has a high count of calcium in her blood. She has to do this every 4 weeks and it takes about 3 hours per time. Most of the results are in, it is confirmed that she does have multiple myeloma, which is cancer of the blood and it's attacking her bones. In theory, it is not curable but the doctor said they have come a long way with medications and they are going to do everything they possibly can. They also started her on steroids, which is to try and start fixing the blood problem almost like a mild chemo. They also want an MRI done, they're hoping for Wednesday, June 18. For further treatments, she will either have to go to London or Toronto, for radiation, bone marrow stem cells transplant of her own or worst case, bone marrow donor transplant.

We feel a little more relieved now that we have some answers and know what direction we are heading. We, as a family, are very thankful for all the support given to us in this time of need. "Nothing happens by chance."

With much love,
Pete, Sharon, Natasha, Heather and Shaun

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

June 10, 2008

Hey Everyone,


Yesterday (being Monday), I was scheduled for a CT Scan which I had to fast for, for four hours. My brother Walter and his wife Deb were down from B.C. so they took me. Once there I was informed that instead of a CT Scan the radiologist wanted me to have an ultrasound. With a CT Scan they would have injected me with a dye so that they could better see results. With this dye and being put in the machine it could make the cancer worse and being young the radiologist thought we should take a safer route and check all my organs through an ultrasound. So I fasted for my thyroid, liver, kidneys and abdomen! The ultrasound tech's husband had been diagnosed with a form of cancer last year so she talked me through the ultrasound . She told me each organ looked good. The doctor hasn't looked at anything yet. Tomorrow I'm scheduled for a biopsy in my hip to take out some bone marrow. Originally I was told that I would be put to sleep for this but now they seem to think just a little bit of freezing gel on my hip will do the trick. I'm planning on taking a bag of ice cubes to sit on during my drive down to the hospital just to help the situation a wee bit (and than I might even put an extra blob of gel on the hip for extra measure). Once the biopsy is done I think that will be it for all my testing. The doctors will have a little meeting together and figure out the plan for all my treatments.

Otherwise I'm doing pretty good. I do have days that I'm more sore than others but the doctor's have given me wonderful pills that make you sleepy and your ears ring and head a bit dizzy - basically I zone out. Once I took the pills a little too close together and Pete got a real kick out of my "conversations". I avoid these pills in the day because I have kids to take care of and want to look normal. The doctors told me to stay on top of the pain though because bone pain is painful and pain can do things to you psychologically. They don't want me exhausted before the real treatment starts.

I can still do all my housework and cook and do some running around. I do get tired pretty quick, even from visiting. The young people from church came to my house last Monday and cleaned out all my gardens and planted all my flowers. Everything looks amazing, that's one job I couldn't have done. It's great to see everyone caring, even the teenagers at church. Thanks so much for all the cards and phone calls even from people who don't know me very well but want to share their experiences with cancer too. It's very encouraging especially during this time of not knowing everything. It's amazing how Satan can work at you through all the unknowns but it's even more amazing to experience God's grace and peace when you need it most!

I hope to write in the blog soon. I just got dial up internet at home (that's all I can get right now with all the trees around, I still have to hook it up).

Love Sharon

Thursday, June 5, 2008

June 5th,2008

Hi Everyone!

Yesterday was not a very good day for Sharon. She had very bad chest pains, we went to the hospital and all was well with her heart. They figure it was stress and anxiety due to not knowing what exactly is going on. It's not a 100% sure but the blood work shows Multiple Myeloma, which the red blood cells are attacking her bones. More test are to be done this week, CAT scan June 9th, and biopsy and morrow bone test after that (date unknown yet). Once these are done, we should have result and see which direction to go for the medication.

Thank you all for your continued support!

Pete

Friday, May 30, 2008

May 30,2008

Hi Everyone!

Just a little update about Sharon,
For the most part pretty upbeat and always has a smile on her face, and a good and funny sense of humour. On Wednesday, may 28th had an ultrasound and as of yet we have not heard of any results. On Monday, june 2nd she will be getting a bone scan and we are still waiting for a date for a biopsy. We thank everyone for caring about Sharon and family and for all your prayers and concerns. We will try to keep this updated as much as possible.
If you need to talk to us please call me instead of Sharon as all the phone calls are hard on her!

Thanks! Pete
pete@zwartstopsoil.ca
cell: (519)374-9911
office: (519)599-1027