If you have tried to post a comment on my blog and haven't been able to, please try again. I have been having some problems with it - but hope I have it fixed now.
I had my heart stress test today. It wasn't pleasant - to say the least! - but it is done. The initial results show no problems - thank you God - and I am now waiting for the results of the pictures taken using the radioactive injections (with all the x-rays, cat scans and now this test - I bet I glow in the dark). I should hear on this portion of the test in the next day or two. Your prayers have gotten me this far - I appreciate your continuing on my behalf.
I feel pretty good today! I still have a reduce air flow on my right side, but the tightness has subsided and I have noticed I don't become out of breath quite so quickly. I know I am still far from 100%, but I am feeling more and more normal each day. I know I owe these improvements to the steroid regime I am on, so I worry a bit when my dose lowers this Friday. I know I can't stay on a high dose forever - but my, it has been nice! I go from 3 pills a day to two pills a day for a week, then one pill a day until I see my pulmonologist.
I am again setting my sights on returning to work. If I continue to improve, I am shooting for this Monday to start back half days. I am excited and nervous at the same time. Poor Melanie, my co-teacher, and my sub Kathy, have been putting out all kinds of 'fires' with students on my caseload. Melanie said she is pretty sure there is a full moon going on - and if you are a teacher you will know what I mean by this. I just hope I have the stamina to deal with it all. The half days will help - and knowing I have such a supportive staff to work with. I am just going to have to approach how I handle things a little bit differently for awhile.
Matt and Courtney are coming from DesMoines to visit this weekend. I was hoping we would all get together with Greg, too, but he is heading up to Wisconsin for a leadership conference with his fraternity. Travel prayers for all would be appreciated! :-)
We are half way through the week and things are looking up. Have a great day!
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Much Better
I am having a much better day. First, I slept for a solid 6 hours last night. A great improvement over the last few preceding nights. Unfortunately, Mark said my transmitter was beeping all night, so HE didn't get a good sleep (one of my heart leads had come loose). I guess I was either exhausted or I'm just getting use to the irritating sound. My achiness has also subsided - thank you God.
At lunch, my neighbor, Carol, picked me up and we went to Paradise Bakery at Regency Court. It was my first time eating there and it was wonderful! I had the fire grilled tomato soup, with half a cranberry turkey sandwich, decaf peach tea and an oatmeal raisin cookie. I ate every bit of it. Delicious! We then walked the mall to Borsheim's Jewelry to get her daughter's necklace repaired and stopped to look at the sales at the Pottery Barn. While walking and talking still don't seem to go well for me, yet, I walked faster than I have (yes Carol, that was faster :-) and didn't have to stop to rest. More progress!
Coworker, Deb, stopped by last evening and dropped off a great meal, and made me feel better by relaying her son's recovery from lung problems. I don't like hearing the word 'months' in the time line it takes, but it is reassuring that I am not so out of the ordinary.
Have a great day!
At lunch, my neighbor, Carol, picked me up and we went to Paradise Bakery at Regency Court. It was my first time eating there and it was wonderful! I had the fire grilled tomato soup, with half a cranberry turkey sandwich, decaf peach tea and an oatmeal raisin cookie. I ate every bit of it. Delicious! We then walked the mall to Borsheim's Jewelry to get her daughter's necklace repaired and stopped to look at the sales at the Pottery Barn. While walking and talking still don't seem to go well for me, yet, I walked faster than I have (yes Carol, that was faster :-) and didn't have to stop to rest. More progress!
Coworker, Deb, stopped by last evening and dropped off a great meal, and made me feel better by relaying her son's recovery from lung problems. I don't like hearing the word 'months' in the time line it takes, but it is reassuring that I am not so out of the ordinary.
Have a great day!
Monday, January 29, 2007
Monday, Monday.....
Today I am feeling rather run down and tired. I didn't sleep well again last night - the beeping transmitter again - so that could be part of it. I also suspect my cancer treatment is letting me know that it is in my body - causing a few aches and pains. Tylenol helps - but boy I hate to keep popping pills.
I did manage to go through all my get well cards and Christmas cards this morning. It was nice to reread each one as I sorted them. You have all been so supportive - and I am so appreciative. I also found checks and gift certificates that got lost in all the confusion of my health issues. One of the checks was for my son, Greg, so it was a nice surprise for a college guy to have some found cash!
My cardiologist's nurse called today to report my monitoring company is again reporting some heart concerns. My heart beats too slowly at night while I sleep and has skipped around a few times (short bursts of A-fib) both yesterday and today. I felt the skips but was happy they didn't go on and on as before. It has been hard for the doctor to regulate my medicines to get that exact combo needed to maintain my heart (not too slow nor too fast). But I am encouraged it hasn't gone totally crazy since the med changes! Let's pray that continues!
Today, I also was able to get some correspondence done, and made myself walk up and down the flight of stairs to the second level to do some computer work a couple of times.
Last night I was thinking I sure wasn't any better - but then realized I had stood to get ready for bed (rather than relying on a chair by my sink), laid down in bed without having to 'suck air' for three minutes, and even could lean over to give Mark a goodnight kiss. All small things - but huge in the big scheme of things. Small steps, Jacque. Small steps.
Take care everyone.
I did manage to go through all my get well cards and Christmas cards this morning. It was nice to reread each one as I sorted them. You have all been so supportive - and I am so appreciative. I also found checks and gift certificates that got lost in all the confusion of my health issues. One of the checks was for my son, Greg, so it was a nice surprise for a college guy to have some found cash!
My cardiologist's nurse called today to report my monitoring company is again reporting some heart concerns. My heart beats too slowly at night while I sleep and has skipped around a few times (short bursts of A-fib) both yesterday and today. I felt the skips but was happy they didn't go on and on as before. It has been hard for the doctor to regulate my medicines to get that exact combo needed to maintain my heart (not too slow nor too fast). But I am encouraged it hasn't gone totally crazy since the med changes! Let's pray that continues!
Today, I also was able to get some correspondence done, and made myself walk up and down the flight of stairs to the second level to do some computer work a couple of times.
Last night I was thinking I sure wasn't any better - but then realized I had stood to get ready for bed (rather than relying on a chair by my sink), laid down in bed without having to 'suck air' for three minutes, and even could lean over to give Mark a goodnight kiss. All small things - but huge in the big scheme of things. Small steps, Jacque. Small steps.
Take care everyone.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Another sunshiny day! OK, it's somewhere around 16 degrees - but the sun is shining and wind isn't blowing - a great day.
Mark took me to WalMart this morning for a little outing. We weren't gone long, but it was great to be out and about. Last night our friends, the O'Connors, spent the evening preparing supper and sharing it with us. It was yummy - and great to sit with old friends and talk. Diane and I watched a movie while the guys ran some errands - and while I got a little sleepy towards the end of the movie - it was all in all a fun evening.
My desire for a very quick turn around with my lungs isn't panning out. I know they are better - I just have to keep telling myself this - but they are still far from being what I could consider good. I did empty the dishwasher and reloaded it, so this in itself is another milestone. I may have to rethink my return to work this week. I want to be strong and ready when the time comes, so I may have to wait until next week. I will see. Either way, I hope to get to school to see my students and coworkers . It has been such a long time since I have seen them all - not since before Christmas break. Way too long in my opinion!
Take care - enjoy the day!
Mark took me to WalMart this morning for a little outing. We weren't gone long, but it was great to be out and about. Last night our friends, the O'Connors, spent the evening preparing supper and sharing it with us. It was yummy - and great to sit with old friends and talk. Diane and I watched a movie while the guys ran some errands - and while I got a little sleepy towards the end of the movie - it was all in all a fun evening.
My desire for a very quick turn around with my lungs isn't panning out. I know they are better - I just have to keep telling myself this - but they are still far from being what I could consider good. I did empty the dishwasher and reloaded it, so this in itself is another milestone. I may have to rethink my return to work this week. I want to be strong and ready when the time comes, so I may have to wait until next week. I will see. Either way, I hope to get to school to see my students and coworkers . It has been such a long time since I have seen them all - not since before Christmas break. Way too long in my opinion!
Take care - enjoy the day!
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Saturday
It is Saturday, and while it is chillier & windier, the sun is shining.
My friend, Diane, took me shopping this afternoon. We started at Dillard's and moved on to Marshall's. While I had to walk very slowly, I was able to make it through both stores. Diane was very patient with my slowness and it was great to be able to go out to a 'real' store.
Mark and I have been enjoying meals every day brought by friends and coworkers. It has been so wonderful. Yesterday, a friend from work stopped by to drop off a lovely basket filled with popcorn and gift certificates to restaurants and Blockbuster from my department at work. So nice! I know I have said this before, but we are truly blessed to have such a supportive group of people behind us. I thank God for each and every one of you.
Diane and her husband, Steve, are returning tonight to fix supper and eat with us. It will be nice to have a normal evening with our dear friends.
While I can't say I can tell a huge difference between yesterday and today in my breathing abilities, I know that the shopping was a step in the right direction. I need to push myself just a little more each day in order to increase my stamina - and hopefully improve my lung function! The doc said it could be months before the fluid and air pocket disappear, so I am not sure how my lungs should feel. I just would like to be able to walk a little faster without gulping for air! I know - PATIENCE! Sigh.....
Have a great rest of the day - it is a beautiful one!
Friday, January 26, 2007
Happy Day!
The sun is shining, it is a balmy 40 degrees - and it fits my mood perfectly!
I had my second cancer treatment yesterday afternoon (no bad side effects to report - thank you very much) and my oncologist, Dr. Silverberg, gave me double the steroid drip he normally gives me (steroids help with side effects) to see if he could jump start some relief to my meager breathing. Within a half hour I could tell my sinuses and bronchial tubes were clearing, and I breathed much easier. Hurray!
I saw my cardiologist today due to my fun filled day yesterday of A-fib. She is putting me on her last resort drug to get my heart to stay in sinus rhythm. The reason she has been avoiding it is because it runs the risk of decreasing lung function, which we know I don't need a this time! If this doesn't work, her next choice is a pace maker - so PLEASE my dear Lord, either have the steroids or this new drug take away my rhythm problems . I still can only think that the lung inflammation (coupled with fluid in the lung itself and the air pocket) are what is causing the A-Fib. At least, that is my story, and I am sticking to it. I go in this Wednesday for a stress test of the heart, so again pray that my heart will not show any problems there.
My next stop this morning was to the pulmonologist, who didn't see any improvement with the air bubble or the fluid in the lungs (I assume the fluid got in the lung when my lung was nicked with the chest tube). He said it would just take time. The good news is the hole in the lung is healed so I can now......drum roll.......TALK!!!!!!!, get 15 minutes of light exercise a day, drive, and in general start returning to a normal life!!!!!!!! The really big news is I can start back to school, half days, as soon as I am feeling up to it. I had thought about trying Wednesday, but my mom-in-law, Carolyn, (who drove me to all of my appointments today and was a real trooper) reminded me I had the stress test that day - drat. So I am shooting for Thursday. Now I know returning will be dependent on how quickly I can regain my stamina, but the doc started me on oral steroids today, so I expect to be feeling better and better each day. He said the main problem with steroids is, they can give you a false sense of well being, so I need to keep this in mind and to not overdo. Hey, I am now the queen of not overdoing - hopefully I will remember what I have been through and truly NOT overdo.
I am again dreaming of a good nights sleep. My woes are now being caused by the heart monitor. I am grateful for the monitor. It keeps my rhythms and pulse in constant check - but the beeping and blooping are such an annoyance. This is what last night sounded like because I was in A-Fib. Transmitter 'BEEP' Monitor 'Bloop, Bloop Bloop', (pause), Transmitter 'BEEP, BEEP' Monitor 'Bloop, Bloop Bloop' (pause), repeat for three hours. My heart finally went back into rhythm around 1:00 a.m., so everything quieted and I could get some sleep. Mark was able to sleep through most of it, which amazed me since he is such a light sleeper. I am usually the one that can sleep through a marching band.
I had my first official, not doctor, outing today. On the way home from my appointments we stopped at HyVee to get prescriptions. I walked the entire store, picking up few items, and did quite well. It felt so good to be out doing normal things!
Things are looking up dear friends and family. I fear getting too excited as I know how quickly things can change, but I am allowing myself a little bit of hope. I am blessed with great family, friends, and coworkers and thank you for all your support, concern and prayers.
I had my second cancer treatment yesterday afternoon (no bad side effects to report - thank you very much) and my oncologist, Dr. Silverberg, gave me double the steroid drip he normally gives me (steroids help with side effects) to see if he could jump start some relief to my meager breathing. Within a half hour I could tell my sinuses and bronchial tubes were clearing, and I breathed much easier. Hurray!
I saw my cardiologist today due to my fun filled day yesterday of A-fib. She is putting me on her last resort drug to get my heart to stay in sinus rhythm. The reason she has been avoiding it is because it runs the risk of decreasing lung function, which we know I don't need a this time! If this doesn't work, her next choice is a pace maker - so PLEASE my dear Lord, either have the steroids or this new drug take away my rhythm problems . I still can only think that the lung inflammation (coupled with fluid in the lung itself and the air pocket) are what is causing the A-Fib. At least, that is my story, and I am sticking to it. I go in this Wednesday for a stress test of the heart, so again pray that my heart will not show any problems there.
My next stop this morning was to the pulmonologist, who didn't see any improvement with the air bubble or the fluid in the lungs (I assume the fluid got in the lung when my lung was nicked with the chest tube). He said it would just take time. The good news is the hole in the lung is healed so I can now......drum roll.......TALK!!!!!!!, get 15 minutes of light exercise a day, drive, and in general start returning to a normal life!!!!!!!! The really big news is I can start back to school, half days, as soon as I am feeling up to it. I had thought about trying Wednesday, but my mom-in-law, Carolyn, (who drove me to all of my appointments today and was a real trooper) reminded me I had the stress test that day - drat. So I am shooting for Thursday. Now I know returning will be dependent on how quickly I can regain my stamina, but the doc started me on oral steroids today, so I expect to be feeling better and better each day. He said the main problem with steroids is, they can give you a false sense of well being, so I need to keep this in mind and to not overdo. Hey, I am now the queen of not overdoing - hopefully I will remember what I have been through and truly NOT overdo.
I am again dreaming of a good nights sleep. My woes are now being caused by the heart monitor. I am grateful for the monitor. It keeps my rhythms and pulse in constant check - but the beeping and blooping are such an annoyance. This is what last night sounded like because I was in A-Fib. Transmitter 'BEEP' Monitor 'Bloop, Bloop Bloop', (pause), Transmitter 'BEEP, BEEP' Monitor 'Bloop, Bloop Bloop' (pause), repeat for three hours. My heart finally went back into rhythm around 1:00 a.m., so everything quieted and I could get some sleep. Mark was able to sleep through most of it, which amazed me since he is such a light sleeper. I am usually the one that can sleep through a marching band.
I had my first official, not doctor, outing today. On the way home from my appointments we stopped at HyVee to get prescriptions. I walked the entire store, picking up few items, and did quite well. It felt so good to be out doing normal things!
Things are looking up dear friends and family. I fear getting too excited as I know how quickly things can change, but I am allowing myself a little bit of hope. I am blessed with great family, friends, and coworkers and thank you for all your support, concern and prayers.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Maybe It's Not The Chocolate!
My heart monitor arrived yesterday. I got it set up, called the company to activate and it seems to work pretty well until bedtime. Then it started beeping and misbehaving. A call to the company seemed to fix the problem and I went to bed. In the middle of the night, Mark and I were awakened by a phone call. It was the heart monitoring company wanting to know if I was OK. I guess I was having an 'episode' in my sleep. I assured her I was fine - had been fast asleep and had no symptoms to report. I asked her what had happened and she couldn't tell me. Now, it is my heart, why can't they tell me? The rest of the night the monitor kept flashing and beeping, not making for a restful night.
This morning, as I got up, my heart went into Atrial Fib - which means it is racing and beating erratically. That was at 6:45 and it is now 9:30ish and is still going to town. My monitor keeps making all kinds of beeping noises and it is getting very irritating. I am glad to be hooked up to be monitored, but if it is not going to allow me to get a good nights sleep - I don't know.....
These episodes usually last from 4 to 5 hours, so hopefully today won't be any different and it will calm down by my treatment time this afternoon.
It is somewhat sunny this morning, I can see the snow sparkling on the deck. It looks like it could be a beautiful day - for winter.
Have a good day - I continue to appreciate your prayers.
This morning, as I got up, my heart went into Atrial Fib - which means it is racing and beating erratically. That was at 6:45 and it is now 9:30ish and is still going to town. My monitor keeps making all kinds of beeping noises and it is getting very irritating. I am glad to be hooked up to be monitored, but if it is not going to allow me to get a good nights sleep - I don't know.....
These episodes usually last from 4 to 5 hours, so hopefully today won't be any different and it will calm down by my treatment time this afternoon.
It is somewhat sunny this morning, I can see the snow sparkling on the deck. It looks like it could be a beautiful day - for winter.
Have a good day - I continue to appreciate your prayers.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Another Day
Another day at home - and it is great. I go tomorrow for my next cancer treatment. It was suppose to be Friday, but it got moved up a day. Somehow I was the only patient booked for my oncologist that day. Guess he is taking a well deserved day off - good for him!
Just two more days until my appointment with the pulmonologist. I certainly hope there has been some change for the better! It is hard for me to tell since I am out of breath whenever I move around. Just to be told I could breathe deeply would be wonderful.
I am a bit unhappy with the heart monitoring company. My cardiologist wants me to wear one for the next month. I was under the impression I would go home with a unit, but when I checked out on Saturday I was informed I had to wait until Monday to call the office to set it up. When I called the office I was told the unit was ordered from a Chicago company and I would receive it on Tuesday. Tuesday afternoon the unit showed up via FedEx and proceeded to malfunction - another unit has to be sent out. I should receive it today. I am now 5 days out of the hospital and still not being monitored. I was hoping to wear it for the next couple of weeks and then be told by my cardiologist I could take it off (I know I am dreaming - but ya gotta dream). But since my appointment is next Wednesday, I don't think a week is going to cut it. Drat! Oops, is my impatience showing again? The unit is actually rather cool (if it worked). It has three leads you attach in a certain pattern on your chest to these sticky contact discs. Then there is a little oval plastic piece that the leads connect to that you wear with a lanyard around your neck. There is a small cell flip phone that is the receiver, and you just pop it in your pocket or on your bed table - and you are set to go. As long as you are in a cell coverage area you are being monitored.
Mark's step-mom, Joyce, wrote to tell me she is also sensitive to chocolate and it will send her heart racing, too. I am jealous of people that can drink coffee or pop right up to bedtime and sleep like a baby. I hope you all know how fortunate you are!
I also hope you all know how blessed we are to have such kind, caring people in our lives. From rides to appointments to food for our meals we have been showered in blessings. It would be impossible to relate all the kindnesses done for us. Thank you everyone!
Just two more days until my appointment with the pulmonologist. I certainly hope there has been some change for the better! It is hard for me to tell since I am out of breath whenever I move around. Just to be told I could breathe deeply would be wonderful.
I am a bit unhappy with the heart monitoring company. My cardiologist wants me to wear one for the next month. I was under the impression I would go home with a unit, but when I checked out on Saturday I was informed I had to wait until Monday to call the office to set it up. When I called the office I was told the unit was ordered from a Chicago company and I would receive it on Tuesday. Tuesday afternoon the unit showed up via FedEx and proceeded to malfunction - another unit has to be sent out. I should receive it today. I am now 5 days out of the hospital and still not being monitored. I was hoping to wear it for the next couple of weeks and then be told by my cardiologist I could take it off (I know I am dreaming - but ya gotta dream). But since my appointment is next Wednesday, I don't think a week is going to cut it. Drat! Oops, is my impatience showing again? The unit is actually rather cool (if it worked). It has three leads you attach in a certain pattern on your chest to these sticky contact discs. Then there is a little oval plastic piece that the leads connect to that you wear with a lanyard around your neck. There is a small cell flip phone that is the receiver, and you just pop it in your pocket or on your bed table - and you are set to go. As long as you are in a cell coverage area you are being monitored.
Mark's step-mom, Joyce, wrote to tell me she is also sensitive to chocolate and it will send her heart racing, too. I am jealous of people that can drink coffee or pop right up to bedtime and sleep like a baby. I hope you all know how fortunate you are!
I also hope you all know how blessed we are to have such kind, caring people in our lives. From rides to appointments to food for our meals we have been showered in blessings. It would be impossible to relate all the kindnesses done for us. Thank you everyone!
Monday, January 22, 2007
Chocolate Is Not My Friend
Being a major chocoholic, I am sad to report that it is now on my no-no list. Before I knew what was happening with my body (the heart racing, cancer and lung complications) I had noticed that caffeine made my heart race. I quit drinking regular coffee and tea - and had noticed that at times even chocolate caused symptoms.
During my stay in the hospital, chocolate lost all of it's appeal. I am sure this was because of the c-diff intestinal infection - everything had lost it's appeal - but chocolate? Yesterday, there was a bowl of chocolates left over from the holidays sitting on the kitchen counter, so I picked out a nice big truffle. It tasted great! Within the hour I felt my heart start to race and go into Atrial Fib - again. My cardiologist sent me to my doc to get an EKG to confirm - which is a bit irritating as I am waiting on a home heart monitor that won't get here until sometime today. If I had it yesterday I wouldn't have had to make the trip for the EKG. I had just been to the doc's that morning to have a blood test - sigh. In four to five hours my heart calmed down on its own. I won't be eating chocolate again any time soon!
I feel stronger, but my lung feels the same to me. Doctors orders are to not deep breathe and to not do anything that gets me winded - along with limiting talking. In other words, sit in a chair or lay down. Very boring. I can move around the house - at least the first level (luckily, our bedroom is on the first floor) so the scenery is much better than the hospital. Also, since we have digital tv I have more than 6 channels to watch. I can't remember when I have watched this much tv!
Healing is a slow process and I am learning to be patient - or at least trying to be patient. I am touched by everyone's kindness and willingness to help. Again, your prayers are valued.
During my stay in the hospital, chocolate lost all of it's appeal. I am sure this was because of the c-diff intestinal infection - everything had lost it's appeal - but chocolate? Yesterday, there was a bowl of chocolates left over from the holidays sitting on the kitchen counter, so I picked out a nice big truffle. It tasted great! Within the hour I felt my heart start to race and go into Atrial Fib - again. My cardiologist sent me to my doc to get an EKG to confirm - which is a bit irritating as I am waiting on a home heart monitor that won't get here until sometime today. If I had it yesterday I wouldn't have had to make the trip for the EKG. I had just been to the doc's that morning to have a blood test - sigh. In four to five hours my heart calmed down on its own. I won't be eating chocolate again any time soon!
I feel stronger, but my lung feels the same to me. Doctors orders are to not deep breathe and to not do anything that gets me winded - along with limiting talking. In other words, sit in a chair or lay down. Very boring. I can move around the house - at least the first level (luckily, our bedroom is on the first floor) so the scenery is much better than the hospital. Also, since we have digital tv I have more than 6 channels to watch. I can't remember when I have watched this much tv!
Healing is a slow process and I am learning to be patient - or at least trying to be patient. I am touched by everyone's kindness and willingness to help. Again, your prayers are valued.
A good nights sleep is a wonderful thing. My first night home I decided to go cold turkey after 18 days of a sleeping aid called Ambien. This pill isn't supposed to be addictive, but my body sure did miss the assist. Needless to say, between not taking the Ambien and a weird (probably medicine induced) tendency for my throat to close off every time I was drifting off to sleep, made for a very sleepless night on the couch. I could tell yesterday afternoon, as I dozed in my chair, that the odd (and scary) throat closing feeling was gone, so looked forward to a good nights sleep. We went to bed around 10:00, and once I got comfortable, I slept like a baby until 5:00. Heavenly. You know, the most recent change I made with meds was not taking the Ambien for a night. Do you suppose I developed a strange reaction to it? Hmmmm......
I get stronger each day and look forward to my Friday appointment with my pulmonologist to see if there has been any improvement in my lung inflammation and the air pocket. I notice I still can't walk and talk without getting short of breath, so obviously I have a way to go, but I keep reminding myself what a weak little kitten I was on Friday - and that makes me realize I have accomplished more than my impatient mind thinks.
Food continues to taste good and I can tell my appetite is slowly returning. Yesterday I put a 'Krista' roast (a cut of meat inspired by a PEO friend whose brother is a grocer in Iowa - so cool to have your own signature product) given to us to try by our friends the O'Connors before all this health silliness started. Diane also gave me Krista's recipe, which was excellent - I will include it below. Now before anyone scolds me, putting this roast on was the ONLY thing I did of any consequence all day. Mark finished the meal off with baked potatoes and asparagus. Delish!Carolyn, Mark's mom, joined us for supper and helped get it on the table and clean up. It feels so odd to go sit down while everyone else is working away in the kitchen - guess I will try to enjoy it while I can.
Here is the recipe:
Krista Roast
In a shallow covered pan:
beef roast (I don't know what the regular name for this cut would be. It is well marbled and flat - not like a rolled rump)
3 cubes beef bouillon dissolved in 3/4 cup hot water
Misty's or Lawry's seasoning salt - both sides (I just did one side)
Onion salt (I used powder) & black pepper
Shake red pepper flakes over the top (Krista likes a lot - I did just a little)
Put in roaster, cover and cook all day with lid on at 225 degrees
Moist, tender and delicious!
I get stronger each day and look forward to my Friday appointment with my pulmonologist to see if there has been any improvement in my lung inflammation and the air pocket. I notice I still can't walk and talk without getting short of breath, so obviously I have a way to go, but I keep reminding myself what a weak little kitten I was on Friday - and that makes me realize I have accomplished more than my impatient mind thinks.
Food continues to taste good and I can tell my appetite is slowly returning. Yesterday I put a 'Krista' roast (a cut of meat inspired by a PEO friend whose brother is a grocer in Iowa - so cool to have your own signature product) given to us to try by our friends the O'Connors before all this health silliness started. Diane also gave me Krista's recipe, which was excellent - I will include it below. Now before anyone scolds me, putting this roast on was the ONLY thing I did of any consequence all day. Mark finished the meal off with baked potatoes and asparagus. Delish!Carolyn, Mark's mom, joined us for supper and helped get it on the table and clean up. It feels so odd to go sit down while everyone else is working away in the kitchen - guess I will try to enjoy it while I can.
Here is the recipe:
Krista Roast
In a shallow covered pan:
beef roast (I don't know what the regular name for this cut would be. It is well marbled and flat - not like a rolled rump)
3 cubes beef bouillon dissolved in 3/4 cup hot water
Misty's or Lawry's seasoning salt - both sides (I just did one side)
Onion salt (I used powder) & black pepper
Shake red pepper flakes over the top (Krista likes a lot - I did just a little)
Put in roaster, cover and cook all day with lid on at 225 degrees
Moist, tender and delicious!
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Home At Last
I am home at last. Mark, Matt and Courtney picked me up this morning around 10:00. I kept thinking it wasn't going to happen - even once I was in the car I was sure something was going to cause me to have to return. I kept taking my pulse - just to be sure - but it beat slow and steady.
It is so nice to be home. I have basically sat in my comfy chair all day except for the few minutes I laid on the couch. I feel very lazy and useless, but it is still great to be home.
Matt and Courtney had to head home to DesMoines mid afternoon to beat the snow, but it was great seeing them while we could. We had Arby's for lunch and my Market Fresh sandwich (OK, half of one) tasted delightful. After lunch Matt & Mark took down Christmas lights outside and Courtney kept me company. It was great.
Once the kids left, Mark spent the afternoon being a busy bee going to the grocery store, doing laundry & cleaning. He made a yummy spaghetti dinner for us, which smelled great, looked great and tasted great. He made the observation that obviously the hospital food must have been bad since I haven't had one problem enjoying food at home. I really don't understand why hospital food is so awful.
It took Oreo, our cat, until 5:30 before she would come to me without my picking her up. My neighbor, Carol, suggested that I probably smelled different, like the hospital, which makes sense. Mark has always been her favorite human, but I am sure come Monday (while Mark is at work) I will be her best friend.
It is snowing as I type. My dream from last week has come true. I am enjoying my comfy chair and comfy husband, and am looking forward to a night in my comfy bed. I appreciate your continued prayers for healing. Love to you all.
It is so nice to be home. I have basically sat in my comfy chair all day except for the few minutes I laid on the couch. I feel very lazy and useless, but it is still great to be home.
Matt and Courtney had to head home to DesMoines mid afternoon to beat the snow, but it was great seeing them while we could. We had Arby's for lunch and my Market Fresh sandwich (OK, half of one) tasted delightful. After lunch Matt & Mark took down Christmas lights outside and Courtney kept me company. It was great.
Once the kids left, Mark spent the afternoon being a busy bee going to the grocery store, doing laundry & cleaning. He made a yummy spaghetti dinner for us, which smelled great, looked great and tasted great. He made the observation that obviously the hospital food must have been bad since I haven't had one problem enjoying food at home. I really don't understand why hospital food is so awful.
It took Oreo, our cat, until 5:30 before she would come to me without my picking her up. My neighbor, Carol, suggested that I probably smelled different, like the hospital, which makes sense. Mark has always been her favorite human, but I am sure come Monday (while Mark is at work) I will be her best friend.
It is snowing as I type. My dream from last week has come true. I am enjoying my comfy chair and comfy husband, and am looking forward to a night in my comfy bed. I appreciate your continued prayers for healing. Love to you all.
Red Letter Day
I think it is finally going to happen! All three docs have been in to excuse me. Now I just have to wait for all the paperwork to go through. I am not going to believe it until I am sitting in my own home.
Greg came to see me yesterday and brought me lunch. We went for my first walk in the hallway in almost two weeks. He had to follow with me with a wheel chair, as the doc doesn't want me to become out of breath. I didn't make it very far, and Greg had to take me back. Then the aide took me for a walk and I made it a hallway length and a third before I had to resort to the chair. Last evening, Matt, my son, and Courtney, my future daughter-in-law were visiting me and Matt and I made it to the end of the hall and back with just a rest in the middle. This morning, I walked all the way around my floors hallway - just leaning against the wall to catch my breath a few times. I have been laying around so long, it is going to take some time for me to get my land legs back.
I appreciate your continued prayers and I look forward to talking to you all soon, as my lungs - and I - get stronger.
Greg came to see me yesterday and brought me lunch. We went for my first walk in the hallway in almost two weeks. He had to follow with me with a wheel chair, as the doc doesn't want me to become out of breath. I didn't make it very far, and Greg had to take me back. Then the aide took me for a walk and I made it a hallway length and a third before I had to resort to the chair. Last evening, Matt, my son, and Courtney, my future daughter-in-law were visiting me and Matt and I made it to the end of the hall and back with just a rest in the middle. This morning, I walked all the way around my floors hallway - just leaning against the wall to catch my breath a few times. I have been laying around so long, it is going to take some time for me to get my land legs back.
I appreciate your continued prayers and I look forward to talking to you all soon, as my lungs - and I - get stronger.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Day 16
My pulmonologist was in, and since I am now off of isolation, I can start taking slow walks in the hallway. I have to have someone with me with a wheelchair so I can sit down if I become short winded to keep the air pocket from getting bigger. I haven't been able to do more than go to the restroom and walk between my chair and the bed for over a week (except for that fateful day I overdid it thinking I was following doctor's orders), so this is a huge improvement! It is amazing how quickly your body adjusts to no exercise and turns you into a weakling.
The doc also said that he will see me in a week, rather than next Tuesday, to give my lungs time to heal and hopefully show improvement before he takes another x-ray. His assistant was in earlier and I said something to her about the possibility of steroids to reduce the inflammation and she said she hoped it didn't come to that as the steroids would be strong and I could have some pretty bad side effects. So hopefully the inflammation will go away on its own. Prayers please! :-)
I hate to admit it, but I am feeling better not talking so much. It has to do with the inflammation in my lung lining. When I talk I use my lungs more, which just irritates the inflammation.
I know that things can change in an instant, but so far it looks like I will be heading home tomorrow. As I am sure you can imagine I am anxious, but also a little nervous. I think I will just pretend I am going home on Monday so I won't be disappointed with any setbacks. :-) Have a good day!
The doc also said that he will see me in a week, rather than next Tuesday, to give my lungs time to heal and hopefully show improvement before he takes another x-ray. His assistant was in earlier and I said something to her about the possibility of steroids to reduce the inflammation and she said she hoped it didn't come to that as the steroids would be strong and I could have some pretty bad side effects. So hopefully the inflammation will go away on its own. Prayers please! :-)
I hate to admit it, but I am feeling better not talking so much. It has to do with the inflammation in my lung lining. When I talk I use my lungs more, which just irritates the inflammation.
I know that things can change in an instant, but so far it looks like I will be heading home tomorrow. As I am sure you can imagine I am anxious, but also a little nervous. I think I will just pretend I am going home on Monday so I won't be disappointed with any setbacks. :-) Have a good day!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Update
My pulmonologist is back today after being out sick all week. It seems he had a medication reaction to Levitor rather than an illness. He has decided, because of the location of the air pocket, to wait a week to see if my body absorbs the air. He said it should. I asked if there was something to help with the inflammation and he said yes, he could give me steroids, but that might undo the procedure. If, next week, the inflammation hasn't gone down, then he will start steroid treatment.
The good news is I can go home as soon as the cardiologist releases me, which could be as soon as Saturday. The bad news is I am to speak as minimally as possible. I had noticed that talking a lot left me tired and winded, but I didn't want to admit it to myself since I enjoy gabbing so much. He suggested only limited visits from people, if at all. I guess this is a small price to pay to get to go home. So, dear friends and family, I am going to have to communicate with you all through email and blogs.
Once home I am still on rest and minimal activity (brush teeth, comb hair) - but the change of scenery will be great!
As a whole I feel pretty good. My intestinal system is still a bit out of whack, but seems a bit better each day. I look forward to being home where I can sit in my comfy chair, lay in my comfy bed and hug my comfy husband :-).
I so enjoy reading your comments and am so honored and amazed that so many are lifting me in prayer. Love and blessings to you all, Jacque
The good news is I can go home as soon as the cardiologist releases me, which could be as soon as Saturday. The bad news is I am to speak as minimally as possible. I had noticed that talking a lot left me tired and winded, but I didn't want to admit it to myself since I enjoy gabbing so much. He suggested only limited visits from people, if at all. I guess this is a small price to pay to get to go home. So, dear friends and family, I am going to have to communicate with you all through email and blogs.
Once home I am still on rest and minimal activity (brush teeth, comb hair) - but the change of scenery will be great!
As a whole I feel pretty good. My intestinal system is still a bit out of whack, but seems a bit better each day. I look forward to being home where I can sit in my comfy chair, lay in my comfy bed and hug my comfy husband :-).
I so enjoy reading your comments and am so honored and amazed that so many are lifting me in prayer. Love and blessings to you all, Jacque
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
2nd Blog of the Day
Well, I am pretty low right now. My cardiologist just came in and said rather than just a racing heart I was again in atrial fib last night and a little this morning. As of this writing I am back in sinus rhythm, but she doesn't think the meds I am on are working, so is going to try something new starting tomorrow. I have to be here at least 48 hours once she starts them, so who knows when I will get out of here. She said she isn't even sure if this med change is going to do the trick, that she may have to try other things. She said she feels this is still due to the lung procedure, so hopefully she will be able to stabilize my heart so no damage occurs during this healing time. She complimented me on having such a good attitude, but I must be honest, I am blue.
I know that the human body can go through many trials and bounce back. I have witnessed this through my mom for many years. Her good attitude has been an example for me to live up to throughout this ordeal.
Last night, as I lay in bed, not falling asleep in spite of a sleeping pill, I felt a little panicky - 'how much longer will I be here?' 'when can I go back to work?' and so on. I finally visualized myself laying down in a pair of huge hands - God's hands. I made a mantra of 'give it to God, give it to God' and finally drifted off to sleep. Awake, I again struggle with wanting control, which of course is just down right silly. I am in God's hands, and I know he wants nothing but good for me. I appreciate prayers for healing, trust and patience.
I know that the human body can go through many trials and bounce back. I have witnessed this through my mom for many years. Her good attitude has been an example for me to live up to throughout this ordeal.
Last night, as I lay in bed, not falling asleep in spite of a sleeping pill, I felt a little panicky - 'how much longer will I be here?' 'when can I go back to work?' and so on. I finally visualized myself laying down in a pair of huge hands - God's hands. I made a mantra of 'give it to God, give it to God' and finally drifted off to sleep. Awake, I again struggle with wanting control, which of course is just down right silly. I am in God's hands, and I know he wants nothing but good for me. I appreciate prayers for healing, trust and patience.
Disappointed :-(
I am disappointed that I am not going home today. I will try to explain what is going on, as I think I finally have a pretty clear picture. While the chest tube was inserted it nicked the lung, releasing air and causing a small air pocket to form in the top of my chest cavity. However, over time, it continued to get bigger and is now holding down the top of my lung, keeping it from expanding fully. The little hole in the lung was sealed when the talc procedure was performed, but the pocket remains. Once my cumadin (a blood thinner) level gets low enough, which might be as soon as tomorrow, the doctor will insert a small tube in the top of my chest cavity that has a one way valve on it that releases the air but doesn't allow it back in. As I breathe, air from the pocket is force out the tube. It is unknown how long I would wear this tube. Some people need it just a day or two - others a week or longer. The doctor isn't sure if I will stay in the hospital over night after the procedure, or if I would be sent home the same day. What will be, will be.
Yesterday, if you remember, my doc suggested I get up and move around the room as much as possible. I follow orders, so I cleaned my room up, and walked very small laps (my room is not that big). I also tried to stay sitting up rather than laying in bed. I had two visitors (both who brought food - thanks Donna and Marcia), edited a paper for my son, Matt and had multiple phone calls. I thought it was a good day until just before Marcia arrived, around 4:00, I became immensely tired and my heart started racing. IV drugs eventually brought it back down, but this disappointed me, too, since I had been doing so well for 4 and a half days. The nurse suspects I did too much during the day after just lolling around for so many days - doctors orders on the lolling - not by choice. Marcia suggested that I think of what I want to do, then cut it in half. I have always been a doer - so pacing myself is something I am going to have to learn. Perhaps God was just putting a little scare in me so I won't overdo once I do get to go home. Believe me, I don't want my heart to do that when I am not in the hospital!
Before my little heart episode yesterday, my cardiologist stopped by and said I was doing fine. She asked if I was short of breath and I told her just a little and I could tell something wasn't normal. She said she was amazed at how well I was handling this and that most people don't do so well. She attributed it to the fact that I am in such overall good health. I had to smile because I do feel good in spite of a misbehaving lung and heart, an air pocket and cancer. Go figure. :-) My heart was under control by the time I went to bed, and has been fine ever since. Hopefully the nurse was right about just overdoing it. I will see what the cardiologist thinks when she comes in.
If I can make it through the day without diarrhea I will be taken off of isolation tomorrow - hoo hoo! That means I could actually take a stroll around the hallway - or even go to the gift shop or coffee shop! Sounds heavenly! For the last two weeks my biggest excursions have been going to the 1st floor for x-rays.
Yesterday, if you remember, my doc suggested I get up and move around the room as much as possible. I follow orders, so I cleaned my room up, and walked very small laps (my room is not that big). I also tried to stay sitting up rather than laying in bed. I had two visitors (both who brought food - thanks Donna and Marcia), edited a paper for my son, Matt and had multiple phone calls. I thought it was a good day until just before Marcia arrived, around 4:00, I became immensely tired and my heart started racing. IV drugs eventually brought it back down, but this disappointed me, too, since I had been doing so well for 4 and a half days. The nurse suspects I did too much during the day after just lolling around for so many days - doctors orders on the lolling - not by choice. Marcia suggested that I think of what I want to do, then cut it in half. I have always been a doer - so pacing myself is something I am going to have to learn. Perhaps God was just putting a little scare in me so I won't overdo once I do get to go home. Believe me, I don't want my heart to do that when I am not in the hospital!
Before my little heart episode yesterday, my cardiologist stopped by and said I was doing fine. She asked if I was short of breath and I told her just a little and I could tell something wasn't normal. She said she was amazed at how well I was handling this and that most people don't do so well. She attributed it to the fact that I am in such overall good health. I had to smile because I do feel good in spite of a misbehaving lung and heart, an air pocket and cancer. Go figure. :-) My heart was under control by the time I went to bed, and has been fine ever since. Hopefully the nurse was right about just overdoing it. I will see what the cardiologist thinks when she comes in.
If I can make it through the day without diarrhea I will be taken off of isolation tomorrow - hoo hoo! That means I could actually take a stroll around the hallway - or even go to the gift shop or coffee shop! Sounds heavenly! For the last two weeks my biggest excursions have been going to the 1st floor for x-rays.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
2 Weeks
I have now been in the hospital for two weeks. Enough already! My pulmonologist is still ill, so I saw the same associate as before. I feel great - even look great according to the doc this morning - but here I sit. Seems they decided to do the little cath in the lung cavity to release the air, but my blood was too thin due to the cumadin the cardiologist is giving me. Now they have to wait for my blood to thicken. I asked if I could go home to wait for this to happen and he said yes, if it was still too thin tomorrow, but not today. Can't remember why - I was so bummed I think my mind turned off.
I did test positive for c-diff - the intestinal illness I had - caused by my antibiotics killing off the normal 'flora' of the intestine. It is fecal to mouth transported, so people have a pretty slim chance of getting it from me considering what a hand washing fiend I am. One of my students at school teases me and says I am rather 'Monkish' (for those that don't know, Monk is a TV show about a guy with obsessive compulsive disorder). Being a school teacher I have become obsessed with keeping my students and myself as healthy as possible, so hand washing is our front line of defense. Luckily my classroom has a kitchen and a restroom so it is easy for all to clean up after a cough or a sneeze. My mom's sisters love to tease me about the time they were visiting my home and asked to help in the kitchen. In my best teacher voice I said 'Yes, first wash your hands and then you can...' I furthered my o/c behavior this morning by requesting disinfecting wipes and spent quite a bit of time cleaning my room. Let me tell you, after two weeks it was due! If I stay diarrhea free until Thursday I can be considered off isolation. BUT I HOPE I AM NOT HERE ON THURSDAY!!!!!
The doc asked me to walk around in my room as much as possible today (can't go in the hall because I am in isolation). They will take an x-ray tomorrow and check my blood levels again. Maybe, with luck, I can have the procedure tomorrow and go home.
Last night Mark arrived just as my supper tray did. The food just didn't cut it, so Mark kindly went to the cafeteria and got a grilled cheese sandwich and a bowl of bean soup for me. It tasted heavenly. I know my taste buds are still off, but surely someone could figure out a way to get food to hospital patients that was hot and tastey.
Thanks again for your continued prayers. I so appreciate it.
I did test positive for c-diff - the intestinal illness I had - caused by my antibiotics killing off the normal 'flora' of the intestine. It is fecal to mouth transported, so people have a pretty slim chance of getting it from me considering what a hand washing fiend I am. One of my students at school teases me and says I am rather 'Monkish' (for those that don't know, Monk is a TV show about a guy with obsessive compulsive disorder). Being a school teacher I have become obsessed with keeping my students and myself as healthy as possible, so hand washing is our front line of defense. Luckily my classroom has a kitchen and a restroom so it is easy for all to clean up after a cough or a sneeze. My mom's sisters love to tease me about the time they were visiting my home and asked to help in the kitchen. In my best teacher voice I said 'Yes, first wash your hands and then you can...' I furthered my o/c behavior this morning by requesting disinfecting wipes and spent quite a bit of time cleaning my room. Let me tell you, after two weeks it was due! If I stay diarrhea free until Thursday I can be considered off isolation. BUT I HOPE I AM NOT HERE ON THURSDAY!!!!!
The doc asked me to walk around in my room as much as possible today (can't go in the hall because I am in isolation). They will take an x-ray tomorrow and check my blood levels again. Maybe, with luck, I can have the procedure tomorrow and go home.
Last night Mark arrived just as my supper tray did. The food just didn't cut it, so Mark kindly went to the cafeteria and got a grilled cheese sandwich and a bowl of bean soup for me. It tasted heavenly. I know my taste buds are still off, but surely someone could figure out a way to get food to hospital patients that was hot and tastey.
Thanks again for your continued prayers. I so appreciate it.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Bored
I am blogging right now out of boredom. My pulmonologist has bronchitis, so I saw his associate (the same one from the weekend). He hadn't seen this morning's x-ray, but said if it were his choice he would send me home to let the 'air bubble' resolve itself - but he knew my doc had a different idea how he wanted to treat it. He was going to consult with my doc and get back to me. I don't expect to hear from him until later today.
I haven't seen my cardiologist today, but I am still in rhythm, so assume she will be OK in releasing me. I am not going to count my chickens, though.
I asked the nurse to check the x-ray report from earlier today and she said it showed no change. Sigh. Guess it is better than its being worse. I would be more encouraged if I heard - looking a little better.
The really good news is that I no longer have diarrhea, and while I wouldn't say I had an appetite, I am able to smell food without being repulsed - and can even eat some of it! I have plenty of reserve, so there isn't a chance of me wasting away any time soon. Hopefully they will lift the isolation so people don't have to continue to gown and glove up to enter my room.
Yesterday, one brave soul braved the snowstorm and the isolation requirements, gowned up and came to see me (thanks, Beth). I had told Mark and his mom to stay home - hopefully Mark got some needed rest. Our dear neighbors snow blew our walks not once, but three times in the last two days. Thanks Larry and Carol (OK, Larry - but I am sure Carol gave you moral support :-).
I will close for now and wait to hear from my various docs. I don't know what to wish for since I know so little about lung conditions. I am just going to have to trust my docs. But I miss my family, my home, my students, my co-workers, my kitty - my life as I know it. Alright, enough wallowing. I will report as soon as I know anything different.
I haven't seen my cardiologist today, but I am still in rhythm, so assume she will be OK in releasing me. I am not going to count my chickens, though.
I asked the nurse to check the x-ray report from earlier today and she said it showed no change. Sigh. Guess it is better than its being worse. I would be more encouraged if I heard - looking a little better.
The really good news is that I no longer have diarrhea, and while I wouldn't say I had an appetite, I am able to smell food without being repulsed - and can even eat some of it! I have plenty of reserve, so there isn't a chance of me wasting away any time soon. Hopefully they will lift the isolation so people don't have to continue to gown and glove up to enter my room.
Yesterday, one brave soul braved the snowstorm and the isolation requirements, gowned up and came to see me (thanks, Beth). I had told Mark and his mom to stay home - hopefully Mark got some needed rest. Our dear neighbors snow blew our walks not once, but three times in the last two days. Thanks Larry and Carol (OK, Larry - but I am sure Carol gave you moral support :-).
I will close for now and wait to hear from my various docs. I don't know what to wish for since I know so little about lung conditions. I am just going to have to trust my docs. But I miss my family, my home, my students, my co-workers, my kitty - my life as I know it. Alright, enough wallowing. I will report as soon as I know anything different.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Sunday
Yesterday evening my funkiness (is that a word?) went from bad to worse with a higher fever and diarrhea - oh joy. Samples were taken (those poor nurses) and blood drawn to check for some antibiotic related malady. I have been put in isolation and feel like typhoid Mary, as anyone who enters must be gowned and gloved. There haven't been any results back from the tests so all I can do is wait. However, I do feel better - even though I am still experiencing diarrhea - and so far have been able to eat a little.
The weekend pulmonologist finally arrived late yesterday afternoon. He had been to see me in the morning, but I was gone for my x-ray. He said the x-ray showed no change - no better, no worse. I will take that. No worse is a good thing.
The weekend pulmonologist came in this morning and said he ordered an x-ray for tomorrow morning, and that there was a good possibility I might go home. He can't make that call since he is not my doc, but he thought it possible. I asked about cathing the lung and he said he didn't think that would be necessary - that it should resolve itself in time. Again, he isn't my doc, but it was encouraging anyway.
Joy of joy, I got to take my first shower in 12 days! Don't be alarmed, I figured out a way to stick my head under the faucet while balancing on a nurse's stool from the hallway to wash my hair, and the hospital has these nice packets of disposable body wipes that they heat in the microwave that do a fine job of cleaning. They just didn't compare to a shower. Mmm-mmmm-mmm.
Have a great Sunday, everyone. I appreciate your concern and prayers. God is good.
The weekend pulmonologist finally arrived late yesterday afternoon. He had been to see me in the morning, but I was gone for my x-ray. He said the x-ray showed no change - no better, no worse. I will take that. No worse is a good thing.
The weekend pulmonologist came in this morning and said he ordered an x-ray for tomorrow morning, and that there was a good possibility I might go home. He can't make that call since he is not my doc, but he thought it possible. I asked about cathing the lung and he said he didn't think that would be necessary - that it should resolve itself in time. Again, he isn't my doc, but it was encouraging anyway.
Joy of joy, I got to take my first shower in 12 days! Don't be alarmed, I figured out a way to stick my head under the faucet while balancing on a nurse's stool from the hallway to wash my hair, and the hospital has these nice packets of disposable body wipes that they heat in the microwave that do a fine job of cleaning. They just didn't compare to a shower. Mmm-mmmm-mmm.
Have a great Sunday, everyone. I appreciate your concern and prayers. God is good.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Funky day
It is cold and wintry out today with more snow on the way tomorrow. Since it is a weekend, cold and snowy, the docs aren't as quick to come in (I can't blame them) but it is now 4:35 and I haven't seen my pulmonologist's associate today. I just want to know what the x-ray of my lung from this morning looked like and if there is any improvement. I have the feeling the lung hasn't inflated any more, but I am hopeful the inflammation is at least a little less. My heart has now been in sinus rhythm since yesterday morning, so that is encouraging!
I am not feeling my best today. I am running a low grade fever and having some problems with my stomach, again.
When the aide brought my lunch in I asked him stand away from me, pick up the lid and look to see what it was on the tray, as I wasn't sure I could face it. He looked and went "Uhm..... Uhm....I'm not sure." I had to laugh. He looked at the sheet on the tray and told me it was sweet and sour chicken. I asked him to take it away - I knew I couldn't look at it. Mark was planning on bringing me a steak dinner tonight, but I don't think I am going to be able to handle that. Darn! (However, the Zio's Pizza was divine last night.)
Two steps forward, one step back. I just need to keep remembering how I felt a couple of days ago and not get discouraged.
Stay warm!
I am not feeling my best today. I am running a low grade fever and having some problems with my stomach, again.
When the aide brought my lunch in I asked him stand away from me, pick up the lid and look to see what it was on the tray, as I wasn't sure I could face it. He looked and went "Uhm..... Uhm....I'm not sure." I had to laugh. He looked at the sheet on the tray and told me it was sweet and sour chicken. I asked him to take it away - I knew I couldn't look at it. Mark was planning on bringing me a steak dinner tonight, but I don't think I am going to be able to handle that. Darn! (However, the Zio's Pizza was divine last night.)
Two steps forward, one step back. I just need to keep remembering how I felt a couple of days ago and not get discouraged.
Stay warm!
Friday, January 12, 2007
Sigh
It looks like I will be spending the weekend in the hospital. My pulmonologist has decided to take a wait and see attitude on my lung to see if it will inflate on it's own. My cardiologist wants to do further testing, but has decided to wait until the lung is better.
All in all, I can't complain, I guess. I have a private room - which is much nicer than a long term stay I did a few years ago, where I had a roommate with an abdominal infection, who didn't like to bathe....and the room never got below 85 degrees due to construction being done on a floor above - yuck. So, I guess I am resolved - but I sure wish the food was better! I can hardly stand to look at (or smell) what is on the tray. Tonight Mark is bringing up pizza - thank the Lord! I can just tell the aide to take my tray away and avoid the smell/sight factor. :-)
I have to take time to give my coworkers a nod. For those that don't know (I know this blog has been passed to others who don't know me personally) I am a teacher of special needs students at Millard South High School, a school district in Omaha, NE. We have the same students for 4 years, so we get very attached. I haven't had to worry one bit about my students thanks to my co-teacher, substitute and paras (although I do miss interacting with them during the day). Another coworker stepped up and took over my re-eval testing. If you have read the comments, some people in my department have teased me about writing some of their IEPs (paperwork we must do on each individual student) since I am just lying around, but I know any one of them would do my student's IEPs for me if I asked. It is so nice to know that people have your back. They have all been awesome, and deserve kudos.
Dear friends and family, please pray for my lung to resolve on it's own, that the inflammation from the procedure heals quickly, and that my heart continues to stay in rhythm and stay strong. A few words about my cancer going into remission would be appreciated, too. God bless you all!
All in all, I can't complain, I guess. I have a private room - which is much nicer than a long term stay I did a few years ago, where I had a roommate with an abdominal infection, who didn't like to bathe....and the room never got below 85 degrees due to construction being done on a floor above - yuck. So, I guess I am resolved - but I sure wish the food was better! I can hardly stand to look at (or smell) what is on the tray. Tonight Mark is bringing up pizza - thank the Lord! I can just tell the aide to take my tray away and avoid the smell/sight factor. :-)
I have to take time to give my coworkers a nod. For those that don't know (I know this blog has been passed to others who don't know me personally) I am a teacher of special needs students at Millard South High School, a school district in Omaha, NE. We have the same students for 4 years, so we get very attached. I haven't had to worry one bit about my students thanks to my co-teacher, substitute and paras (although I do miss interacting with them during the day). Another coworker stepped up and took over my re-eval testing. If you have read the comments, some people in my department have teased me about writing some of their IEPs (paperwork we must do on each individual student) since I am just lying around, but I know any one of them would do my student's IEPs for me if I asked. It is so nice to know that people have your back. They have all been awesome, and deserve kudos.
Dear friends and family, please pray for my lung to resolve on it's own, that the inflammation from the procedure heals quickly, and that my heart continues to stay in rhythm and stay strong. A few words about my cancer going into remission would be appreciated, too. God bless you all!
Late post
Sorry this is so late in the day. I was hoping to hear from my pulmonologist before I updated, but it is almost 2:30 and he hasn't come back in to report on my x-ray. My heart is back in sinus rhythm (yea!) so that makes me very happy. Now, if my lung has shown improvement in it's 'dropping down' I will be closer to heading home.
For those of you who aren't in the Omaha area, we have been having unseasonably mild weather. So much so that we were lured into a false hope that it would remain that way. Well, winter temps have arrived and we should be getting some snow over the weekend. It would be nice to be home for the snowfall to be able to snuggle under a throw in a chair by the fireplace.
Keep warm!
For those of you who aren't in the Omaha area, we have been having unseasonably mild weather. So much so that we were lured into a false hope that it would remain that way. Well, winter temps have arrived and we should be getting some snow over the weekend. It would be nice to be home for the snowfall to be able to snuggle under a throw in a chair by the fireplace.
Keep warm!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Busy Day
I have had a busy day. My heart is still being very erratic, which both my cardiologist and pulmonologist say could be due to the procedure I had two days ago. My pumonologist took out my chest drain today (hooray!) even though he didn't want to initially. He said this morning's xray showed top of my lung had 'dropped down' and he wanted to reposition the tube and keep it in so the lung could re-inflate. I was SO bummed. But when he tried to reposition it, the tube was twisted and blocked, so he pulled it. He may have to put a little catheter in if the lung doesn't inflate on it's own, but he said it would be much less intrusive, so I think this is a good thing - and my side feels SO much better! I could use some 'inflation' prayers!
My pulmonologist said my lung is very inflamed, which means the procedure was working. This inflammation is what they think could be causing the heart problems. You know, if it isn't one thing it is another.
This morning, after the tube had been pulled and my IV with heart medicine removed (I'm getting that by mouth now) I was able to go to the restroom without two carts full of tubes and a nurse's assistance to maneuver the carts. I could actually go all by my little lonesome! Score! It is experiences like this that make you appreciate the little things in life!
I had a little breakfast and a little lunch today, so I am on the mend in that area, too. It is nice to feel half way healthy again!
Thanks for your continued prayers!
My pulmonologist said my lung is very inflamed, which means the procedure was working. This inflammation is what they think could be causing the heart problems. You know, if it isn't one thing it is another.
This morning, after the tube had been pulled and my IV with heart medicine removed (I'm getting that by mouth now) I was able to go to the restroom without two carts full of tubes and a nurse's assistance to maneuver the carts. I could actually go all by my little lonesome! Score! It is experiences like this that make you appreciate the little things in life!
I had a little breakfast and a little lunch today, so I am on the mend in that area, too. It is nice to feel half way healthy again!
Thanks for your continued prayers!
Better
It is 3:15 in the morning and I think I am on the mend - or at least controlled.. My cardiologist added IVs that slowed my heart rate down (still not normal, but better than 160 bpm) and my nurse called a doc and got an anti nausea medicine which I got in the evening.
Thanks to all who called ahead and/or read between the lines on my last blog and postponed your visit. Sorry to my morning visitor that I wasn't a better hostess! I would have loved to visit with you!
Mark came up in the morning when I was in a tearful state and calmed me down. He returned last evening with a burger, that I thought I might be able to stomach, but alas, I just managed a few nibbles. I would not suggest this as a weight loss regime, but it surely is doing the trick!
I still am not sure how I will feel in the morning. If I write a new blog, that will mean I am feeling better.
Thanks for all the comments. They made me smile.
Thanks to all who called ahead and/or read between the lines on my last blog and postponed your visit. Sorry to my morning visitor that I wasn't a better hostess! I would have loved to visit with you!
Mark came up in the morning when I was in a tearful state and calmed me down. He returned last evening with a burger, that I thought I might be able to stomach, but alas, I just managed a few nibbles. I would not suggest this as a weight loss regime, but it surely is doing the trick!
I still am not sure how I will feel in the morning. If I write a new blog, that will mean I am feeling better.
Thanks for all the comments. They made me smile.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Draggin'
I am dragging today. My heart isn't behaving (doesn't like the tube in, I am told), I have a low grade fever, and just in general not feeling well. Hopefully this will be short lived. I have felt basically good since being in the hospital so I certainly don't need this! As always, prayers appreciated.
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Done!
The procedure is done! The actual procedure did not take very long and was painful, as was the following 15 minutes that I had to lay on my side, but once I was able to lay on my back the pain subsided. The pain is very minimal now and is being controlled with meds. Whew! Am I ever glad that is over! Now we wait to see if it was successful (I'm feeling very confident that it will be). I have to keep the drain until at least Thursday and I have no idea when I will be able to go home after that, but I am happy that I have reached this milestone.
That said, I think I will be up for visitors for anyone who was wondering. Thanks for the continued prayers.
That said, I think I will be up for visitors for anyone who was wondering. Thanks for the continued prayers.
Today
Today is the day. The pulmonologist was just in and said he would be back yet this morning to do the procedure to close the pleural area! Prayers for success and little pain, please! :-) Jacque
Monday, January 8, 2007
Fingers Crossed
Keep your fingers crossed! I may have the procedure tomorrow (Tuesday) to close the lung lining. My pulmonologist said everyone reacts differently to the procedure. Some have very little discomfort and some have great discomfort. With that in mind, I don't know if I will be able to update this for a few days - or if I will want company tomorrow evening. Maybe give a call first (402-354-3832)
I did have a couple of questions answered, though, that you might have also thought of.
1. Where will I be when the procedure is done? In my hospital room.
2. How does he know when the infection is gone? The xrays and cat scans show this
3. Where does the fluid go once the lining has been sealed? Once the lining is sealed, the fluid will not be produced anymore.
I also had a bout of atrial fib in the middle of the night that was disappointing as I had no irregular heartbeat the entire time I have been hospitalized up until this episode. Sigh.
I would appreciate prayers that I am one of the people that has limited pain, that the procedure is successful and that the source of the a fib is discovered and corrected.
I did have a couple of questions answered, though, that you might have also thought of.
1. Where will I be when the procedure is done? In my hospital room.
2. How does he know when the infection is gone? The xrays and cat scans show this
3. Where does the fluid go once the lining has been sealed? Once the lining is sealed, the fluid will not be produced anymore.
I also had a bout of atrial fib in the middle of the night that was disappointing as I had no irregular heartbeat the entire time I have been hospitalized up until this episode. Sigh.
I would appreciate prayers that I am one of the people that has limited pain, that the procedure is successful and that the source of the a fib is discovered and corrected.
Sunday, January 7, 2007
Correction
I have been trying to figure out how to edit my last blog, but so far I can't figure it out, so.....I decided to just write a correction! The date I went in the hospital was JANUARY 3rd, not December. Thank heavens my stay hasn't been THAT long! It is now Sunday, January 7th. No word when the procedure will be done on my right lung to stop it from filling with fluid. I am hoping it will be soon, but I know I can't rush things. Have a good week, everyone!
Saturday, January 6, 2007
The Big C
Hi family and friends, Unfortunately, I am writing this because I am having a recurrence of breast cancer. I have faithfully been going to my oncologist every six months for check ups - and less than 6 months ago everything was seemingly fine. However, 3 to 4 weeks ago my body started causing some problems, first manifesting in atrial fib (the heart beats rapidly and irregularly). While being treated for this, I began experiencing shortness of breath. The cardiologists kept putting me off about the shortness of breath, so I finally went to my family doc who ordered an xray, then a cat scan, and found that my right lung lining was filled with fluid. After having it tapped and almost 2 liters of fluid was removed I felt much better. I missed the last two weeks of school before Christmas break, but the awesome team I work with and my wonderful sub put me at ease as they handled all the semester's end hub bub. I was able to go on the last school day of the semester, so I got to see all my students and give them a hug. That was great!
When the lung lining fluid was tested it showed cancer cells were present. Further tests showed I also had involvement in my bones. My oncologist decided to treat me with two drugs. One drug is a hormone killer (the cancer needs hormones to grow) the other drug will keep my bones strong and keep them from hurting. I had my first treatment last week and tolerated it very well. I am to have this shot and IV once a month. In a few months, the oncologist will run tests to see if the drugs are slowing the cancer's growth. Remission is what we are praying for.
Sunday evening (New Year's Eve) I had trouble sleeping, was experience A fib again and was short of breath. I suspected the fluid was back, but Monday was New Years day, and the oncologist on call said I would need to be hospitalized, because of the holiday and yada yada yada, so with her OK, I decided to wait until Tuesday to have it checked.
Tuesday, my oncologist (Dr.Silverberg) did an xray - and indeed the fluid was back. He kindly found a pulmonary doc that could get me in immediately that day and I headed over to his office. This doc (Dr. Thommi) had time for me because he, himself, was coming back that very day from extended time off for heart surgery . He is an excellent pulmonologist, and I feel very blessed that it 'worked out' that he could see me. (Thank you, God).
He tried to tap into the fluid, but it wouldn't come. He finally got a little to come, but he said it was so full of infection it wasn't flowing very well. He pulled up my records from the last tap and said it had been infected back then but it must have been missed. I had so many docs at that time who had a finger in my initial diagnosis and tap, I don't know who was responsible for this oversight, but it is water under the bridge. Thank God, Dr. Thommi discovered it. He closed me up and gave me a choice of days to go into the hospital.
As I type I am at Methodist Hospital, room 832. I arrived here on Wed. Dec. 3. It is a lovely private room (something else that is a blessing), and for the most part I have had a very kind and skillful nursing staff.
The pulmonologist put a large drain tube in my plueral area (space between lung and chest wall) Wed. morning and it has been there ever since, draining all kinds of interesting look 'stuff'. It is amazing how much unneeded 'stuff' your body can produce when it is in distress.
The drain tube will stay in until the pulmonary doc feels it has slowed enough to do a procedure to close the pleural area, which keeps the fluid from accumulating. I also am receiving IV antibiotic drugs. As I have told visitors, if I could just cut that portion of my body out and set in on a shelf to heal, I would feel just fine (albeit a bit more tired than usual). I don't know how long I will be here, but initally the doc said to plan on 7 days.
I plan on updating this blog every now and then to keep everyone informed. It is such a weird thing, and many people get confused when I try to explain it. It is also possible that I myself don't truly understand what is going on, since this is all new territory for me, too. But I expect to learn as I go.
Now, dear family and friends, if you could please say an occasional prayer for me and put me on any prayer lists you might have I would be so appreciative. No matter what hardship is put in our path, God is always there, guiding, directing and giving hope.
I like to 'envision' things in the future, and for right now I envision myself back at school in a week and a half, feeling strong and ready to teach. I don't know if this is what will happen, but that is my vision!
Seize the day!
Love, Jacque
When the lung lining fluid was tested it showed cancer cells were present. Further tests showed I also had involvement in my bones. My oncologist decided to treat me with two drugs. One drug is a hormone killer (the cancer needs hormones to grow) the other drug will keep my bones strong and keep them from hurting. I had my first treatment last week and tolerated it very well. I am to have this shot and IV once a month. In a few months, the oncologist will run tests to see if the drugs are slowing the cancer's growth. Remission is what we are praying for.
Sunday evening (New Year's Eve) I had trouble sleeping, was experience A fib again and was short of breath. I suspected the fluid was back, but Monday was New Years day, and the oncologist on call said I would need to be hospitalized, because of the holiday and yada yada yada, so with her OK, I decided to wait until Tuesday to have it checked.
Tuesday, my oncologist (Dr.Silverberg) did an xray - and indeed the fluid was back. He kindly found a pulmonary doc that could get me in immediately that day and I headed over to his office. This doc (Dr. Thommi) had time for me because he, himself, was coming back that very day from extended time off for heart surgery . He is an excellent pulmonologist, and I feel very blessed that it 'worked out' that he could see me. (Thank you, God).
He tried to tap into the fluid, but it wouldn't come. He finally got a little to come, but he said it was so full of infection it wasn't flowing very well. He pulled up my records from the last tap and said it had been infected back then but it must have been missed. I had so many docs at that time who had a finger in my initial diagnosis and tap, I don't know who was responsible for this oversight, but it is water under the bridge. Thank God, Dr. Thommi discovered it. He closed me up and gave me a choice of days to go into the hospital.
As I type I am at Methodist Hospital, room 832. I arrived here on Wed. Dec. 3. It is a lovely private room (something else that is a blessing), and for the most part I have had a very kind and skillful nursing staff.
The pulmonologist put a large drain tube in my plueral area (space between lung and chest wall) Wed. morning and it has been there ever since, draining all kinds of interesting look 'stuff'. It is amazing how much unneeded 'stuff' your body can produce when it is in distress.
The drain tube will stay in until the pulmonary doc feels it has slowed enough to do a procedure to close the pleural area, which keeps the fluid from accumulating. I also am receiving IV antibiotic drugs. As I have told visitors, if I could just cut that portion of my body out and set in on a shelf to heal, I would feel just fine (albeit a bit more tired than usual). I don't know how long I will be here, but initally the doc said to plan on 7 days.
I plan on updating this blog every now and then to keep everyone informed. It is such a weird thing, and many people get confused when I try to explain it. It is also possible that I myself don't truly understand what is going on, since this is all new territory for me, too. But I expect to learn as I go.
Now, dear family and friends, if you could please say an occasional prayer for me and put me on any prayer lists you might have I would be so appreciative. No matter what hardship is put in our path, God is always there, guiding, directing and giving hope.
I like to 'envision' things in the future, and for right now I envision myself back at school in a week and a half, feeling strong and ready to teach. I don't know if this is what will happen, but that is my vision!
Seize the day!
Love, Jacque
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