I have heard from people who are going through cancer treatment and have said this blog helps. That's why I continue to chronicle my journey.
August 8,2010, Sunday: Friday, I had another CT scan of chest and abdomen. We are building a base line. Angela and I went out to the Cancer Center where we talked with Jeannie Riley about what to expect from chemo. I had talked with Mary Lou (Her husband, Russ Epperly was diagnosed with lung cancer the same day as me) on Thursday and she had talked about what Russ was going through so I had heard some of it from her. Why am I doing this? Tell me again!!! I came out of that meeting and I really wanted to cry, gulped several times to hold it back. God, give me strength and fortitude.
I'm going to post some of the amazing e-mails I've been getting. I'll read them over and over when I'm feeling down. (and I have)
So sorry I forgot to wish you a Happy Birthday the other day. I've been wanting to tell you for a long time what an Inspiration you have always been to me. I keep thinking to do it and then some crisis or just daily life interrupts and I forget. Anyway, you are such an amazing person. Some of my happiest memories are of being at your house. You have always been so open and loving and treated everyone like they were one of your kids. You are gracious and beautiful and have such a gift for setting people at ease. Your faith is such a part of your daily life and it shines through your whole being. I hope when I grow up to be just like you. Although I have a long way to go...I love you very much. (from niece, Michelle via Facebook)
Mom, Your attitude is everything. You have a very strong faith and have always been optimistic. Mr E ( Russ Epperly) has been dreading this since the beginning and his whole attitude changed when he found out he had cancer. How many times in NYC did I hear you pull the 'stage 4' card? Making light of it. It's your attitude. And yours glows. We love you. We are all here for you. And with the way you've acted so far, like Dad was a poster child for retirement, you will be a poster child for surviving cancer. Hell, you made it through the valium years, this is nothing. :) Alissa (The valium years: Since I don't remember a lot of raising six daughters born in
eight years, it's sort of a blur, the kids call the teen age years the valium years. I never took valium but there were times I should have!)
From Brother Russ: You're right, attitude is everything. Not to belabor a point, but I have survived Spinal Meningitis, the blow that retired me from the police force, five by-passes, etc. I realize that was nothing compared to birthing six children, but for a guy that was tough enough. I played eighteen holes of golf yesterday in 95 degree weather, on a sprained ankle. I have faith in you and those that are there to actively support you, and Lee and I will keep you in our prayers.
By the way, there is a cancer hotline set up by Henry Block and his wife, when they both suffered cancer. It is supposed to be very be very helpful, as they were appalled at the lack of information available.
Norma: Since Linda shared your news with me a few weeks ago, I have been praying for you every morning. I know and admire your deep faith. My prayer has been that through your faith and trust in Jesus Christ, you will find strength and the peace that only He can give. I will continue my prayers for you and if there is anything I can do for you, let me know. Paul (Ryan)
(Not that Paul Ryan, but the husband of a friend)
Our niece, Claudia, is an RN in the Springfield, Mo. area. She asked another nurse who works in a cancer center for info.)
Claudia - Is she having chemo in Spfld? If so, which hospital? If it is at Cox, I will get her some good. personal attention and help.
Lung cancer treatment isn't the worst chemo. She will probably not lose her hair. Mouth sores are a problem, so she needs to start baking soda and salt mouthwashes right way - the day she starts chemo. 1/4 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt in 8 oz warm H20 - rinse and spit - use the entire glass, at least 4X/day. It will prevent the sores from coming up. Tastes bad, but worth it!
If she gets sores with the rinses, tell the doctor immediately and ask for Caphasol Rinse. It is a prescription, but is a miracle rinse! Insurance didn't cover it 2 years ago - but it has been out a while now and should be covered.
Nausea meds - use Zofran every 8 hours for the 1st 24 hours - regardless of how she feels. Back it up with the less nausea med (I am drawing a blank on the name right now), but after 24 hours, the less strong one should do the trick. Take the meds! No need for nausea/vomiting and they won't hurt you! If she has N/V uncontrolled - call the office! Sometimes they need a bag of fluid and some K+ to get them back on track. NO ONE having chemo should go home and have vomiting. The meds should control it. Food not tasting good is normal and just not feeling hungry, but vomiting IS NOT NORMAL. Tell her not to hesitate to call the doctor.
Let me know if she is at Cox - I will get her a "personal nurse"!
Any other questions , let me know.
(I love nurses, whether they are your friends or not, they are all, for the most part a "personal nurse)
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