Thursday, August 15, 2013

thought for the day

James 2:14-17 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

Read more: http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/bible-verse-about-helping-others-21-top-scriptures/#ixzz2c6JBsdQ5


1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it".

Monday, August 5, 2013

PSALMS CHAPTER 34

PSALMS CHAPTER 34

Oncology visit August 2, 2013

A review of the CAT scan and blood work from the previous week has shown a further decrease in Roger's PSA (one cancer marker) to 2, yes, 2.  This is down from 3, three months ago.  The doctor came in and asked "How's the miracle man doing?"  Roger likes this new nickname.  (it does sound better than the million dollar man, I have no total for what insurance has paid toward the cancer bill, but it is over the million dollar mark.  Some day maybe there will be time for totals)  The CAT scan shows 2 spots on the lungs, but too small to biopsy, and they could just be from the onset of emphysema.   Roger continues to have muscle spasms in his hands and legs.  (no reasoning from the oncology end of symptoms)  and Roger still refrains from further doctor visits to check on coughing and emphysema.  So we are still here and kicking.  Best to all.

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Urologist visit

urologist appointment yesterday:  Ultrasound done to assess kidneys.  Both look clear.  Kidney stones are a concern with the urostomy.  No urinary infection present.  Many people have asked why the bladder was not removed.  The bladder is just a burned mass, from the radiation in 2004.  It cannot be removed.  Bleeding from the bladder continues, daily spotting occurs when coughing or straining.  Cystoscopy is still an option, at this point Roger says "NO", doctor agrees unless bleeding continues to increase, the procedure is not really necessary.  Roger is happy to see urologist to prove he is still alive and share news about the Zytiga/predinsone treatment.  Overall, life is good.

Monday, April 22, 2013

Addition of Give Forward Widget

Two friends of my daughter and son-in-law were critically injured in the Boston Marathon bombings.  There are widgets on the right hand side of the blog to take you directly to the fundraising site for each of their accounts.   Please visit the site, you do not have to donate to show your support, just leave a simple message.  If you are able to make a donation, wonderful and thank you!

Thursday, March 21, 2013

The Emotional Roller Coaster Of Chronic Illness

The Emotional Roller Coaster Of Chronic Illness
fortunately, I do not have a job to contend with, but this article does provide information on  what the emotional experience is for Roger.  I try not to ride the roller coaster with him, but certainly have trouble keeping with Roger's ups and downs.  Not much  patience any more, and I do blow a gasket once in a while.  Love to all.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

a little worse for wear

nearing the end of February 2013-six months ago Roger was near the hospice stage.
Today Roger is anticipating crappie season, getting the boat ready, making plans with friends to go fishing.
His greatest suffering today is cabin fever.  And thank you one and all for your prayers!
Zytiga is working to his benefit, slowing and arresting the development of the cancer.  This is not a "remission" , but a break.  At stage IV metastatic,  the cancer doesn't go away, it is in his bones, spine, stomach, bladder, brain... but growth is slowed and the oncologist is happy with the results.  Roger is now back to counting years of life not just weeks and months.   Roger is feeling good!