December 12, 2007

Lynne met with the oncologist today. Lynne's last MRI taken on November 29th, shows the residual tumor about 1/3 the size when compared to the MRI taken immediately following surgery. The doctor told her today that she is beating the statistics regarding this type of cancer. As a result, he is in no hurry to resume chemotherapy and allow her blood counts to return to normal. Lynne thanks everyone for their prayers and requests that you continue to lift her up in prayer.

Regards,
Darryl

November 9, 2007

I arrived for my second procedure as scheduled on Wednesday. During the preparation, the nurse noticed a rash. One of the key medications in my treatment has that side effect, so rather than proceeding with the procedure I was admitted for observation. The internal medicine doctor suspect a reaction to detergent used for the gowns, sheets, towels, and other things. After a couple of days, we seemed to have proved his hypothesis. Today, I was wheeled down at 6:45 am and had two stents deployed. I was awake and watched the procedure on the monitor. The doctor is releasing me to return to work on Monday. The doctor reviewed the results of the echo cardiogram and reported only minimal damage to the heart, so I am thankful and blessed that the heart attack was mild. I am amazed at the technological advances. I am thankful for your thoughts and prayers and grateful for God's care.

Grace and peace to you all,
Darryl

November 2, 2007

Well, I guess its my turn now. Monday, October 29th, I suffered a minor heart attack and have been in the hospital since. I had one stent put in on Tuesday but still need three more. I was scheduled for Thursday but ran a low fever so the procedure was post-poned until Friday. Last, night the surgeon stopped by and said the cath lab is already booked, so the plan is to release me for the weekend and return next week as an out patient.

I feel really good after the first stent, all of the pain disappeared within about five minutes after the stent was deployed. I have felt good since but am really enjoying the opportunity to rest and sleep.

Darryl

October 26, 2007

Lynne met with neurosurgeon today for results and status of the neck MRI. The pressure of the vertebrae on the spinal cord is mild and does not need any further treatment at this time. She also met with her oncologist today. After doctor visits nearly every week, Lynne is relieved not to have a scheduled appointment for two months. Lynne and I have much to be thankful. We appreciate your continued interest in her condition and comments. Keep Lynne in your prayers.

Darryl

October 21, 2007

Lynne had an MRI on her brain and neck this week. The brain MRI shows shrinkage in the residual tumor, which is good news. The neck MRI shows spinal pressure. She will meet with the neurosurgeon this week to determine the course of action. Lynne's platelet levels continue to be about half of what is needed to resume chemotherapy maintenance treatments.

All in all, Lynne is doing well and we are very thankful for the progress.

Darryl

August 11, 2007

Lynne had a brain MRI on Wednesday and met the with oncologist a few hours later. The oncologist entered the room saying "do you want some good news?" The good news is that the MRI when compared with the previous MRI shows that the chemotherapy and radiation produced a positive result regarding the residual cancer. The MRI shows a reduction in the size of the residual following the surgical removal of the tumor.

Yesterday, Lynne's blood test results indicated an increase in the blood platelet level after several weeks of critically low levels. We hope for continued increases to reach a normal level. Lynne's white blood count remains low keeping her on 'lock down' to use one our friends phrase. She must remain away from crowds to avoid catching a bug as her immunity is low. Lynne is scheduled for a bone marrow biopsy to rule out any issues with the marrow in relation to the platelet level.

Please continue your prayers. We appreciate them and give many thanks for the progress so far.

Darryl

August 3, 2007

Lynne completed the platelet and blood transfusion. The blood transfusion was stopped part way through the second unit due to some minor complications. We are still awaiting the full results of all the tests conducted this week. The results from the chest xray showed that the previous blood clot in her lung is dissolving and no additional clots were detected. The ultrasound results are not yet available. Please continue to keep Lynne in your thoughts and prayers. She meets with the oncologist again on August 8th.

Darryl

August 1,2007

Over the last few weeks, Lynne has experienced decreasing platelet levels. With the low levels she has pain, swelling, unsteadiness, and a host of other complications. The doctor ordered some tests today to check for clots and a complete suite of blood tests. No new clots were found and the existing clots are dissolving. Lynne will have a blood and platelet transfusion on Friday to get the blood levels back in order quickly. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.

Darryl

June 18, 2007

Lynne met with the oncologist today. Lynne is finished with the first dose of chemotherapy. She is looking forward to regaining some of her strength. She meets again with the oncologist in a month to discuss and begin the chemo maintenance program that lasts a year.

Darryl

June 17, 2007

Lynne met with her radiation oncologist on June 6, 2007 for a checkup and received a good report. The radiation oncologist scheduled a post-radiation MRI for June 13, 2007. The preliminary feedback indicates encouraging results as no additional growth was detected. Lynne meets with the neurosurgeon on June 25, 2007 and will receive a full report following the surgeon's review of the pre and post MRI scans. She is also scheduled for a followup with her oncologist on June 18, 2007.

Your prayers are appreciated for Lynne and the family.

Darryl

May 22, 2007

After a few weeks of low platelets, Lynne's blood test results are back in the normal range. Lynne expects to hear news about resuming the chemotherapy within the next couple of days.

May 3, 2007

The radiation center celebrates the final day of radiation by ringing the bell. Lynne completed her 33 radiation treatments on May 3, 2007. In addition to ringing the bell, Lynne also took the radiation department a cake to express her thanks for all of the team's support throughout the procedures.

May 3, 2007

Lynne with her radiation oncologist.

May 3, 2007

Lynne's favorite radiation technicians. These provided a lot of support to Lynne as she progressed through the radiation treatments.

May 2, 2007

Lynne's blood test results were favorable this week. The INR was in the normal range for the first time since she entered the hospital for blood clots in February. The white cell count is in the normal range but on the low side and the platelets are still low but improved this week following two weeks of decline.

Lynne started out-patient physical therapy today and begins occupational therapy tomorrow. The therapist said Lynne is much further along than he would have expected for a patient only three months from brain surgery. She is also scheduled for her last radiation treatment tomorrow morning.

Your continued thoughts and prayers on Lynne's behalf are still very much appreciated. We are uplifted to know that so many are sharing their concern with us.

Darryl

April 30, 2007

If all goes according to plan, this is Lynne's last week of radiation treatments. She had blood tests today and we should receive the results tomorrow. She is feeling a bit more tired today compared to previous days, so we are hoping for good test results.

Darryl

April 25, 2007

Lynne continues to do well with the exception of a dropping platelet count over the last two weeks. The doctor suspended the chemotherapy to allow the platelet count to recover. The doctor stated that the issue is not uncommon during chemotherapy and nothing to cause alarm. The doctor will monitor the count and resume the therapy when safe to do so.

Joyce visited Lynne over the last four days. Joyce flew from Connecticut on Friday and returned left last night returning home this morning after a long flight home. Lynne and Joyce appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed the visit and spent most of the week-end in laughter.

Darryl

April 16, 2007

The delay in my update is for two reasons, Lynne continues to do very well and I started back to school three weeks ago. Lynne's radiation is taking its toll on her hair. There is a distinctive outline where the radiation enters and exits the skull. The doctor prescribed a cranial prosthesis (a.k.a wig) due to radiation and chemotherapy induced alopecia.

Lynne's last radiation treatment is scheduled for May 2, 2007. The radiation and chemotherapy continue to have minimal side-effects at this point. Please continue your prayers on her behalf. We are grateful for the progress to date.

Darryl

March 31, 2007

Lynne continues to do well with her recovery. Her uncle Paul is spending the weekend with us. Paul is a truck driver and in-between loads so we are enjoying his company. The weather is beautiful in Arizona so a good part of today is spent enjoying the backyard watching birds, listening to the water fountain, and visiting.

I hope you are enjoying your weekend as well and wish you all the best.

Darryl

March 28, 2007

Lynne is doing well with her recovery. She has helped prepare dinner for the last three nights. She is walking unassisted. She told me yesterday for the first time that she feels like she is on her way to recovery. We are thankful for God's care on her behalf and give Him the glory for what's been achieved to date.

We appreciate your continued comments, thoughts, prayers, and cards. They are truly uplifting and encouraging to Lynne and the rest of the family.

Darryl

March 24, 2007

Lynne's blood levels lowered to a level that allowed her to leave the hospital. She was sure happy. She is walking better than ever and even walked out of the hospital to the parking garage. She was tired when she arrived at the truck but relished the moment. She walked to our bedroom this afternoon. After a short while, I walked in to check on her and she was filing her finger nails and looked up and smiled. She enjoyed a little time alone for the first time in several weeks. We are grateful for her progress. On Monday she will resume her radiation treatments.

Darryl

March 23, 2007

Lynne's day started off rough. The Dilantin level only dropped three points in the last 24 hours after dropping 16 points the previous 24 hours. So she must remain in the hospital longer than she wished. After visits from her mom, dad, and children her spirits picked up considerably. We are hoping for a much larger reduction in the level with tomorrow's test.

Darryl

March 22, 2007

Lynne's Dilantin level is steadily decreasing. Within the next day or two we hope the level reaches the therapeutic level and she is able to return home. I took Lynne on several walks around the hospital today and she is walking better than anytime since the surgery. She walked without assistance from me or her quad-cane.

The nursing staff purchased Lynne a beautiful blanket for her 4 hours in the hall-way bed. They thanked her for being understanding and her positive attitude. She has gained many friends within the nursing staff because of her constant "thank yous" to all of them. As I watch her through this ordeal, with her pleasant attitude, I am constantly reminded of Philippians 3:3 "...but in humility consider others better than yourselves." The rewards for such an attitude are discovered in the present and in the future.

The best to you.

Darryl

March 21, 2007

Lynne's neurologist called last evening and urged us to the hospital due to an Dilantin level result that was critically high. Lynne was told that her body dealt well, since most people exhibit obvious symptoms at that level. After 12 hours in the ER, waiting, waiting, monitoring, blood work, etc. she finally moved to a patient area. The hospital is unusually busy, so her bed is actually in the hall of the wing. Hopefully, she will move to a room soon. The blood level is expected to lessen following a discontinuation of the medicine until the level returns to normal. Lynne takes two medications that interact causing some difficulty in establishing the proper levels.

We did have some excitement in the ER waiting room. We got to see a man tackled by six security guards not more two feet from our seats. A family brought an expectant mother in labor to the ER. She actually delievered the baby in the front seat of the SUV not 20 feet from the ER doors.

Hope you all have a good day!

Darryl

March 19, 2007

The radiation and chemotherapy are taking a toll on Lynne. Lynne tires easily and is resting often. She did attend worship yesterday for the first time since this ordeal began in January. She enjoyed seeing everyone and the service but was quite tired upon returning home. Her tiredness continued into today so we'll have to be careful to monitor the length of her activities. The doctors and nurses warned us that this might occur and that activities need to be paced.

Your continued prayers on Lynne's behalf are appreciated. Several have provided meals over the last several weeks and for that we are extremely grateful. I wish I could put into words our thankfulness to all of you that have extended your love and support to Lynne. Words usually come easy for me but in this case I struggle with finding words that adequately captures our emotions and feelings. Just know how very important your actions are regardless of how unimportant or insignificant they might appear to you.

As stated previously, the blog updates will lessen as the news becomes more routine but I will do my best to update you as significant news emerges.

Darryl

March 15, 2007

Lynne is nearly finished with the first of six weeks of radiation. The treatments did not take long to create fatigue. The last two days have brought many naps. Lynne began her chemotherapy last evening. She awoke at 2 am extremely nauseated which lasted only about 30 minutes after taking some nausea medication. I don't know if the body becomes accustomed to the chemo which lessens that symptom but knowing that the treatment lasts a year we are definitely hoping so.

Lynne continues to receive cards which provide a highlight in her day. Today she received a home-made card from a six year old that touch her deeply and made a few tears flow. Thanks to you again for your continued support in that area.

Darryl

March 12, 2007

Well, after a rough pre-radiation alignment on Friday, Lynne pulled together the courage to face her claustrophobia and breezed through the alignment today. Her radiation treatments begin tomorrow. The series includes treatments Monday through Friday for the next six weeks. I have always had the highest respect and admiration for my wife over the last 28 years but her determination and outlook have proven that I underestimated everything that makes Lynne so special. I was proud beyond verbalization as I watched her face her fear through a video monitor today.

Your continued prayers for her successful treatments are appreciated.

Darryl

March 11, 2007

Lynne and I enjoyed an evening on the porch last evening. The weather in Arizona is just about perfect this time of year. Lynne continued to do well today. We had some church friends over to sing. We enjoyed the time together. Lynne returns for radiation treatments tomorrow. Please continue to pray for a successful treatment.

March 10, 2007

Lynne's trip to the ER yesterday really drained her. She had eight hours of uninterrupted sleep, something she doesn't normally have even when she is well. She awoke this morning somewhat down. After convincing her to eat breakfast and some time enjoying the new patio furniture watching birds and flowers her spirits were lifted. The medication is controlling the spasms. She is enjoying a quite afternoon resting and looking at a new cookbook. She received a couple of gifts from friends in Connecticut and Tennessee, which she enjoyed very much and put a big smile on her face. She is getting hungry for pizza...

Darryl

March 9, 2007

Lynne visited the radiation center to perform the alignment of the machine in preparation for her radiation treatments scheduled to begin next Monday. Lynne has experienced nausea for much of the week, which created some difficulty when she lay on the machine. Lynne is claustrophobic and the head is immobilized with a tight fitting fixture over her face to prevent movement during the treatment. The combination of the two prevent completion of the alignment and rescheduled for Monday.

Later in the day, Lynne began experiencing increased nausea and extreme spasms in her arms and legs. The radiation doctor recommended a trip to the emergency room. After a few scary hours, the spasms were controlled with a muscle relaxer. She was also given something to reduce brain swelling. We will follow-up with a neurologist as soon as possible.

Darryl

March 8, 2007

Lynne left the hospital around 4 pm yesterday. She was glad to be back home. She had a good night's rest but awoke with nausea and dizziness. After spending some time in the hospital without much movement that is not uncommon, so we are walking her every two hours to recondition her body. She slept on the couch for most of the morning, so I know she is much more relaxed at home.

I purchased a new patio set today as the weather is beginning to just right for sitting on the porch and listening to the water fountain. She sat outside for a while today while her dad and I assembled the furniture.

Lynne has an appointment at the radiation center to align her head restraint for radiation, which begins on Monday. She will receive radiation Monday through Friday for six weeks. The radiation is focused on the area of the tumor. She will also begin her chemotherapy next week.

Your continued prayers on her behalf and that of the family as we care for her are much appreciated.

Darryl

March 7, 2007

Yesterday, after a rough morning with some nausea and pain, Lynne's afternoon and evening improved. Chelsea, a pet therapy dog, paid a visit to Lynne and lifted her spirits. Lynne had an X-Ray, CT Scan, and Ultra-sound on the hip to determine the cause of the pain. She is expecting the results sometime this morning. If the results do not indicate anything serious she is expected to return home.

For those of you new to blogging, when you post a message from the blog page the message is sent anonymously. I do not receive your email address or name unless you post into the message. I would caution about entering your email, since that becomes public information. However, I am unable to respond to message individually since they are anonymous. If do you not post your name in the message, I understand and respect your privacy but be aware that we have not way to know who posted the message otherwise.

Thanks again to everyone for the prayers and thoughts.

Darryl

March 6, 2007

Lynne had another good night's rest. She was taken to the radiation facility to fit her with a fixture used during her upcoming radiation treatment. She went through a simulation to prepare her for the treatments over the next six weeks. She has had some pain in her right hip for several weeks but appears to be worsening today. She will speak with the doctor about that today. It is concerning her enough to postpone her leaving the hospital today. Hopefully, we can have an answer soon.

Lynne and I continue to be grateful for all of the notes, cards, email, blog posts, prayers, and thoughts. While they may seem little to you, each one brightens her day more than you will know.

Darryl

March 5, 2007

Lynne and I met with the oncologist and neurosurgeon this morning. The neurosurgeon clarified the results of the MRI. The 13mm is residual not new growth. Therefore, the standard treatment of radiation and chemotherapy will ensue within the next couple of days. The surgeon claims that the 13mm residual is actually better than expected. Lynne is greatly relieved with that news. Lynne was able to get a complete night's sleep, which she was desperately in need of.

Darryl

March 3, 2007

The results from Lynne's MRI were much less than we hoped for. Traits of the glioblastoma multiforme tumor include fast-growth and recurrence. The MRI shows the tumor has re-grown to 13mm. I don't know much more detail at this point. I am hoping a doctor familiar with her case is able to provide us some additional insight this week-end.

Lynne continues to remain in the hospital for the treatment of blot clots. Two medications that she takes operate on the same enzymes, so balancing dosage to reach the desired levels takes some time. Please keep Lynne and those who are caring for her in your prayers.

Darryl

March 1, 2007

Lynne continues to do well. She had an EEG and MRI yesterday. The EEG returned expected results with activity around the surgical area. The MRI results are not yet available. Lynne is expected to remain in the hospital for monitoring for a couple of more days. The medicine adjustments appear to be stabilizing some.

February 27, 2007

Lynne's treatment for the blood clots is going well. The blood clots were more extensive in the right leg than I reported yesterday. She is expected to remain in the hospital for 3 to 5 more days while the medications stabilize. Lynne was up walking today for quite a distance. Tomorrow she is scheduled for an MRI to evaluate the impact of the treatment on her brain. The treatment risk is higher than normal because of the recent brain surgery, so the doctors want to keep a close eye on her brain. Several CT scans have been performed and all look good so far but the MRI provides a closer look.

Returning to the hospital dampened Lynne's spirits. Today Lynne returned to her jovial self and flashed her beautiful smile many times. She is an inspiration to those around her despite this difficulty in her life.

Darryl

February 26, 2007

Lynne re-entered the hospital this morning with a blot clot in her right lung. She was in severe pain. The blog clot was identified with a chest x-ray and CT scan. Subsequently, two additional clots were located, one in each ankle using ultra-sound. The primary course of treatment is to thin the blood but with her recent brain surgery that treatment increases risk. We chose to proceed with that treatment since the surgery occurred nearly a month ago and the results of brain CT this morning. Thinning the blood increases the risk of bleeding in the surgical area. Please pray that the clots dissolve, no other clots form, and that complications do not arise.

Darryl

February 22, 2007

Lynne appreciates all of the cards, email, and blog posts. You'll notice from the photo that she has received many cards. Some of the cards are from people we have never met. The mail is a highlight of the day.

Lynne continues to do well with the physical and occupational therapies. Both therapists are increasing the intensity and complexity of exercises. Lynne had a blood test yesterday with a good report today.

February 20, 2007

You will notice from the photo that Lynne has never lost her beautiful smile throughout this ordeal. Her positive attitude is encouraging to everyone that has visited her over the last few weeks.

Yesterday, the occupational therapist added strengthening excercises to Lynne's rehabilitation efforts. She is doing very well with them. Lynne's walking stability is also increasing each day. I suspect she will be walking without assistance in the upcoming days. Lynne meets with the physical therapist today. She also meets with her neurologist late this afternoon. The neurologist monitors her Dilantin levels. Dilantin is used to prevent seizures following the brain surgery.

The next major appointment is March 5th with the oncologist. Reports on this blog may lessen over the next couple of weeks. I will report any major changes.

February 18, 2007

Thanks again to all of you for your comments, prayers, and support. We are very encouraged by the continued outpouring of concern and love.

Lynne continues to make daily improvements with her mobility. Her coordination with her right hand is also beginning to improve. Today, she fed herself with her right hand. She's been doing fine with the left hand but is working hard to rehabilitate her right hand.

I attended an eight hour seminar hosted by the Brain Tumor Society and Barrows Neurosurgical Institute in downtown Phoenix. I believe that God provided the seminar just in time. A good portion of the seminar focused on the specific cancer that Lynne was diagnosed with (Glioblastoma Multiforme). The seminar included the topics (a) diagnosis (MRI and Pathology), (b) Neurosurgery, (c) chemotherapy, (d) Radiation, (e) Research Updates, (f) Quality of Life issues, including caregiver information, and (g) a Mock Tumor Board Meeting. As you might imagine, there was more information than one can digest in a short time but I am glad to have the information for reference.

Just a quick note for you researchers. If you research the cancer, you will notice many very bleek statistics. Much of the information on the Internet is based on data that does not reflect the latest information. I met a gentleman at the seminar that had the same tumor in a different lobe than Lynne but has lived 13 years. The statistics are helpful to scientists in determining the effectiveness of clinical trials. One must be cautioned to avoid applying statistics to individual cases.

Darryl

February 15, 2007

Thanks to those who have left comments. We appreciate the support, thoughts, and prayers.

Lynne is able to curl the toes on her right foot today. Seems a simple thing for the rest of us but monumental to her after not have any movement on the right side just a week ago. Lynne is also able to lift her right arm a little higher each day and able to rotate her right wrist nearly 180%.

Lynne is uplifted by your cards and comments. We are both encouraged to know that prayers are lifted on her behalf across the country.

I am scheduled to attend an all-day seminar on Saturday for patients and caregivers. The focus of the seminar is on brain tumors with a break-out session specifically on Lynne's diagnosed tumor. I hope to learn more to ensure that I can help her with the decision-making process and provide the support that she needs.

February 14, 2007

Lynne was dismissed from the hospital around noon today. The 22 mile drive home felt like a lifetime to her but she was certainly glad to walk through the door. She requires assistance for safety but can do much on her own. She will be receiving physical therapy at home three times per week beginning tomorrow. She has some blood work scheduled on Friday. For the most part, tomorrow she gets some rest and relaxation.

February 13, 2007

Lynne's mobility has improved enough for release but she developed an minor infection that might postpone her release. We will know more tomorrow. She started antibiotics today. The infection is not uncommon given the situation.

February 12, 2007

Lynne continues to regain mobility. The rehabilitation team is pleased with her progress and set a tentative discharge date of Thursday (2/15). The family spent the day training to provide assistance to Lynne upon her return home. We continue the training tomorrow. On Wednesday we are scheduled to meet with the rehabilitation team and on that day the discision to dismiss is made. We continue to thank God for the progress so far and pray for her continued recovery.

Yesterday, Scott and Elise brought in a homemade spaghetti dinner for Lynne and the family. That was quite a treat for Lynne as she was growing weary of the hospital food. Scott and Elise are the future in-laws of our nephew Danny.

February 11, 2007

Lynne had another good nights sleep. Today, she was able to move the toes on her right foot for the first time for a couple of weeks. Lynne is in good spirits and enjoying the visits of family, friends, and church members. Thanks again for your prayers, she and I are encouraged and strengthened knowing that so many care and petitioning God on her behalf.

Our nephew's future in-laws are delivering a home-make spaghetti dinner for lunch. I understand her spaghetti is the best ever, so Lynne is looking forward to the meal. God bless you all with good health.

February 10, 2007

Lynne is improving everyday with her therapy. After a full nights sleep, she was able to open and close her right hand. This was a momentous event for her and I was thankful to witness. The therapists said that if she continues to improve at this pace she could be released as early as next Friday (2/16). She is working hard and in good spirits despite the serious cancer and impending treatments. We will know more about the treatment plan in just a few weeks. Thanks to all of you for your thoughts, prayers, and support in a lift altering situation. The support provides the courage she needs to face the upcoming days and weeks.