November 17

So a day off turned into a trip to the hospital.  Pop Pop felt terrible, as in so bad it was scary!  It turned out his Potassium and Magnesium levels were low.

Nurse Lucha is a trooper, she put the pieces to her broken back back together and is right by Pop Pop's side.  I don't know how they do it sometimes. Like I said, they just do what needs to be done.

Though Nana's and Pop Pop's health is not well, today was still a day to be grateful.  Today was a day that reminds us of the great support system we have; messages of support, Nani's who visited and left lunch, Margarita who drove my parents to and from the hospital as well as stayed there, Andy who helped get the cars inspected, Allison who had dinner made and delivered by the time my parents returned, and Eduardo who picked-up and sorted medicine, steam-cleaned the floor, and visited the lovely couple.  Thank you God for our many blessings!

November 16

Both Patient and Nurse Lucha are in bad shape!  Pop Pop spent the entire day at UNC, he left the house at 9 am and returned home at 6 pm.  Fortunately, they harvested 6,000,500 stem cell and they only needed 5,000,000...so no hospital tomorrow!  They harvested his stem cells using a system similar to dialysis.  While it is difficult to convey exactly what he felt today, he says he felt vibrations throughout his entire body and his fingers, toes, lips, and more were numb.  My understanding is that those sensations were due to the loss of calcium during the harvesting.  At the moment he still feels numbness, but not vibrations, as well as nausea, and something that he can't put into words.

Nurse Lucha went for a stress test today; however, she was unable to complete it (bc her back) so she was injected with a dye and scanned instead.  Apparently lying on a metal table for a period of time when you have serious back injuries is not good. She can hardly move and is in intense pain. 

 

So here I am, Nurse (I prefer Dr.) A.  Put Lucha to bed with a third Advil and I have to tell you it hurts just looking at her she is in so much pain.  Then off to hang out with Pop Pop.  He is not happy that Bristol Palin gets to stay on Dancing with the Stars (neither am I, even though I don't normally watch).  Fast forward 2 hours and I made him get in bed (only after he checked on Lucha and gave her a kiss) and then I snuggled him like I did when I was just a little girl.  As soon as we heard the storm roll in, I was given the option to stay or go, so I left.

November 15, 2010

Back to UNC today...for a very long day!  Tomorrow will be just as long if not longer as the plan is to begin harvesting stem cells.  We received word from the BMT, Bone Marrow Transplant Team, that Pop Pop may be admitted as early as the end of next week for the Bone Marrow Transplant.  Although we knew this was coming, now that it is actually upon us I can't begin to explain the mix of emotions that we are feeling.  The anxiety and anticipation are palpable.  If he does go in by the end of next week, there is a possibility that he will be out of the hospital for Christmas; however, he may not actually be home.  The BMT team made it very clear that he needs to be within 15 min of the hospital and that he must have someone with him 24 hours a day.  The operative words being with him not nearby.

On a side note ... Nurse Lucha is scheduled for a stress test tomorrow. I am going to say that the chances that she is stressed...100%, but lets prey that her heart is not!  Thank you Companion Zandra for driving Nurse Lucha (perhaps they can give you a stress test as well after that long drive to Cary).

UNC takes great care of everyone! 

( Bella's visit with Pop Pop today.)

November 14, 2010

I am sitting at the kitchen table with Pop Pop enjoying conversation and orange juice.  I thought that I might take this opportunity to allow him to dictate today's update. (find my thoughts enclosed in parenthasis)

"First Iwould like to thank you (me) for giving me my injections. (I am not sure that he should be thanking me as I know that the second one hurt). Second, I know the effects of these injections are tremendous body aches, especially when I wake-up in the morning.  I have been using my miracle drug which is helping me relate with people.  I have my daughter next to me right now, you have to write what I am telling you (Oh, No), I am looking at her face and like always I can say she is a beautiful person inside and out (blush, mind you I have a big mask covering my face). I am going to read that when you finish!  Since my white cells are so low, it makes me a recluce from seeing my grandchildren and their family's...this is really bad for me...but I understand.  So my plans for today, Sunday, is just let four walls make a meal out of me and I hope there is something left to go to the hospital tomorrow. I love everybody...Your Pop Pop"

I asked him if this is how he really feels and he said, "Yes, I feel like the house just wants to eat me up and not let me out.  Like I can't even move or do what ever I want."

November 13

Pop Pop refers to Percocet as a "Miracle Drug" as it normally does the job for pain, but the Neupogen is really doing a number on him and the Percocet only serves to take the edge off now.  His body aches are really getting painful and when I asked him where he feels it (if it is in his bones or muscles) he just says everywhere.  He is being very cautious with himself and wearing a mask when anyone is around because his white blood cells are at 0.

Pop Pop enjoyed watching the kids (Bella, Caroline and Alexander) play outside through the window today.  I took them over so that he could enjoy them for a bit while I gave him 3 injections in his belly.  When I saw the huge bruise left behind from a previous injection (not administered by me), I was worried that I might hurt him.  As always he was a trooper!  I also took him for another joy ride (we both wore masks) which I enjoyed as much as  he did.

I went to the hospital and had my shot with Lucy this morning. Adriana stopped with the kids for a minute to check on me and say hello. My levels are going down again so the mask goes on.

November 9 & 10

While yesterday, November 9th, was an OK day... today the aches and pains have begun.  The Nuepogen injections that Pop Pop has to take for 14 consecutive days which will release his stem cells into his blood  have a known side effect of causing " bone or muscle pain or ache".  Just as painful seems to be the car ride to and from UNC each day as the 45 minute drive (each way) gives the loving couple some time to lovingly debate the pros and cons of Pop Pop's driving techniques.

November 6-8

Saturday, November 6
Oh, what a night!  Pop Pop did not feel well and the day started the same.  With body aches and a fuzzy head. We organized his medications (it is scarey how much he takes a day). The Jimenez crew left town, back to NJ. And last but not least, he saw Harrison walk!

Sunday, November 7
The night was a bit better and he was feeling an improvement over Saturday.  Zandra took Pop Pop for a joy ride, which he really enjoyed. The Neuprogen injections did not arrive and he needed to start them in the evening (stress all around).

Monday, November 8
Today has been a great day!  Pop Pop slept like a champion, he feels well (with energy) and is in a good mood.  We had a bit of a scare with the neuprogen injections (we thought it was going to cost $3,800 out of pocket) but it was just a hicup and all is good (he is going to have his shots administered at the hospital)!

November 2-5

I have been congested and taking care of a sick Alexander, so I haven't been able to visit Pop Pop in the hospital; hence, the lack of updates.  Juan recorded a conversation with the nurse last night so this update is based on that recording.

Tuesday, November 2

Chemo

At night his BP was very high, Juan and Eduardo stayed at the hospital late until it started to go down again

Wednesday, November 3

Chemo

At night he was having difficulty breathing due to the excess of fluid in his system.  Fluids were pooling in his lungs; however, his O2 saturation was fine.  He was given an Albuterol nebulizer and diuretics.

Thursday, November 4

Chemo

After a long night, Pop Pop was given a blood transfusion (2 bags).  The doctors ran a series of tests on him: Head CT Scan, EKG, Chest X-ray, Blood Gas Level, Cardiac Enzyme. Pop Pop also met with the Kidney doctor (I still need to find out if we have any results).  His breathing stabilized; however, his BP was a little high and his face was red. 

* Yolani, Mimi and the kids arrived to visit!  Only Mimi and Yolani could go to the hospital because children should not be present while the Chemo is administered.  

Friday, November 5

Pop Pop was awoken by the nurses and doctors who wanted to give him an assessment (who are you? where are you? Can you touch your nose? ...).  He was not very happy about the whole situation!  He is very happy though that he is on his way HOME where he will see Daniella and Cristian (I know he will love that)!

November 1, 2010 (Admitted to UNC ...phone number below)

So we all took a few days off, unfortunately it was not all that I had hoped it would be.  Aside from going to have lab work done on Friday, Pop Pop's orders were to relax and not worry about chemo until today, Monday.  As you can imagine that is easier said than done! He has not felt well (he does not have much energy or appetite).  He did however have some time to be with Carlos and for that he is greatful. Oh and did I mention...all those little trick or treaters took his candy!

Today we pick-up where we left off and he has returned to UNC.  He has been admitted and we are waiting for test results, if all goes as planned he will begin cycle 3.  The number at the hospital is 966-5030. Please remember, do not call their cell phones unless you have Verizon.

October 27, 2010

I know everyone is anxious to learn about the test results, so here they are:

• MUGA (heart study) result: Good / Normal
• Pulmonary preliminary results:  Passed
• Bone Marrow result: No evidence of Lymphoma
• Kidney result: Too Low (postponing cycle 3 until Monday)
• PET Scan preliminary result: Partial Response 50-60% effective (read below) Also, we are waiting to hear if the scan showed any changes in the shadow found prior to treatment in his lung.  If the shadow has gotten smaller, that may indicate that there is cancer in his lung as well. From the onset of treatment it has been unclear what the scan is showing in his lung.

• The preliminary results show that approximately 40-50% of the cancer remains.  They will proceed with cycle 3 of the O-ICE treatment on Monday because his kidney functions are not where they need to be to continue as planed.  If Monday's lab results are better, he will be admitted and start cycle 3 of O-ICE. (Calendar is updated)
• If he is not cancer-free by the end of cycle 3, the doctor will then make the decision to either do radiation, a new chemotherapy treatment or both.  It is possible that he may still qualify for the BMT; however, that depends on the clinical trial guidelines.
• His kidney function is a large concern for everyone.  His kidneys must be in better condition to be able to do the BMT as BMT's are very tolling on the kidneys.  If a BMT is done and his kidneys are not healthy enough to sustain the procedure he could end-up on dialysis for the rest of his life. This is obviously not an option; therefore, if his kidneys are damaged he would not be able to proceed with a BMT.
• When a patient relapses, the best course of action involves both chemotherapy and BMT, without the BMT it is very likely that he will relapse again in less time than it took the first.  In Pop Pop's case, if he is unable to receive a BMT, it is probable that the cancer will return in less than 1.5 - 2 years ( it could be as little as a month).  Each patient and case is different.

Today has obviously been a difficult day; however, Pop Pop is pushing forward and praying for the best.  

Carlos & Pop Pop

Blood Transfusion

October 26, 2010

Pop Pop started the day big a BANG, or should I say two?  He fell twice as he was getting ready, I am still unsure of the full story and Nurse Lucha was in the shower but what I do know is that as he was bending to pick-up a pillow from the floor he basically kept going and fell into the wall.  What happened the second time is still a mystery to me.

Aside from that...another FULL day at UNC (Labs, Blood transfusion, Magnesium & Phosphorous).  Pop Pop  and Nurse Lucha are both run-down; emotionally, mentally, and physically!

Tomorrow is the BIG DAY, with test results, a meeting with the Bone Marrow Transplant Team and a meeting with Dr. Richards.  This is one of the moments we have all been praying for (so don't stop now).

On the upside, Pop Pop's Mini-Me,Carlos, is in town to assist Nurse Lucha and Patient Pop Pop for the next few days.

Lastly, if you follow the calendar and lab results...they are updated (sorry for the delay).  Hopefully, I will have more dates after tomorrow's meeting to add to the calendar.

Thank you from Pop Pop

Pop Pop has asked me to say thank you for all the prayers, well wishes, and words of encouragement. He loves you all and feels so fortunate to have such wonderful people in his life.

October 25, 2010

Long Day ... for both patient and Nurse Lucha (who pushed a wheelchair all day)

Arrive @ UNC 9:45
Straight to Registration
2nd Floor, Oncology Hematology into a room with a bed for the Bone Marrow test.  He was put to sleep. Took bone marrow biopsy
3rd Floor, Needed transfusion but couldn't get it at the moment (behind schedule)
Far Far Across Hospital to Pulmonary 6th Floor
(Nurse Lucha up and down from 2nd floor back to 6th Floor)
Back down to ground level ... 2 buildings over to Woman's Center Basement to have MAGA Scan (1 hour)
Nurse Lucha was having a sugar low so she took her lunch brake 2 buildings over to grab pizza to share and back across two buildings back to her patient.
Back to the cancer hospital to 3rd Floor ... Infusion: 2 bags of Potassium
Downstairs ... Finally to leave @ 6pm

Walmart ... Home ... Cook ... and washed a load of clothes

FYI:  Bleeding in the skin, the spots I found on his legs, are due to the low platelets.


Tomorrow... 
Return for more!

October 22, 23 & 24

Bad, Bad and well Bad... so that pretty much sums up the last few days.  Friday I stopped at my parents' house in the morning to pick-up my mom to take her to her back appointment and I went upstairs to say good morning to my dad.  I knew the moment that I saw him that he was not doing well.  He had another bad night with a nosebleed, he did not have any energy, he was short of breath, I found new red dots on his legs, and overall...he just looked off to me.  As I went to say good-bye to him I could not help but pull him close to me for an extra long hug and I kissed the top of his head (he was sitting), I love his peach fuzz so lingered there for a while then I whispered to him, "Daddy, lets just stay home and snuggle today". (I knew it was going to be another long day at UNC.)  He responded by saying, "I can't baby, I have to go...but maybe when I get home".  I wanted so badly to somehow take him away from all of this just for a moment but I knew full well that that was nothing more than a hope.  If you know my parents then you know they have always been the type of people who just do what needs to be done.  Rarely do you hear them complain about the journey that needs to be taken to get it done.

In this blog I have done my best to keep my personal thoughts, opinions, and interactions with my parents limited as I don't want to make this about me.  In fact, I even try to refer to them as anything other than my parents because the purpose of this blog has been a way for you, the reader, to interact with them (not me).  But today, I have decided to share this with you for a reason...I am asking you to choose something that you know you should do or that you have wanted to do, but have for one reason or another made excuses not to do.  I am asking that you just "do what needs to be done" regardless, at least for one week.  Allow his fight and the fight of the many others who battle cancer to inspire you, to remind you that when pushed you can endure so much more than you realize.  Allow his fight to serve as a reminder of all that you have to be grateful for, for all that you are capable of that so many others are not. I am asking you to complete the following statement and make it a commitment ...

If Pop Pop can fight cancer, than I can ... 

(no matter if I am tired, if it is raining, if I am busy, if I feel like giving up...I will do what needs to be done!)

What will it be for you?  Are you willing to commit?  Please let me know how Pop Pop is inspiring you. 

FYI, Friday proved to be a bad day.  The blood test revealed he was in need of more 3 bags of potassium, magnesium, phosphate, saline, and platelets.  His leg, for some unknown reason, is not working well (he is having difficulty walking at times). Saturday and Sunday were more or less the same, he continues to have limited energy and no appetite. Tomorrow, Monday, he will have a series of exams.  He begins staging, the phase when a number of tests are done to see if the chemotherapy treatments have been working.  We continue to pray for the exams to show him as cancer free!  Also the doctors are testing to make certain that he is a candidate for a bone marrow transplant, there has been serious concern about his kidneys.

Please pray for all those who have fought and those who continue to fight their own personal battle against cancer. Our lives have been touched and inspired by many family and friends:

Julio Cordoba, Tia Olga, Carlos Holub, Mercedes Barragan, Vicki Kennedy, George Kennedy, Tobby Litt, Serafina Cammarata, Magnolia, Aziz Barragan, Fernando Santos, David Hoereth, Albert Walton, Randy Thompson, Julito Jimenez, Leonor Jimenez, Julita Acosta

Alan Lougee, Alba Lucia Maya, Alfonso Leano, Arcecio Nieto, Arden Zebley, Debbie Eckert, Denice Kardas, Dyana Eckstein, Ed Kalchek, Fred Campos, German Ortiz, Gloria Espinosa, Henry Oward, Jesus Leano, John Semock, Julian Leano, Karen Battista, Kenneth Zeitler, Landa, Lisa Moran, Mary Claire Satterly, Mary Leslie, Mary Pollucci, Mc Pheeters, Owen Fincher, RC Klein, Rona, Ruth Gallop, Susana Bolaos, William Bunn

October 20 & 21

Yesterday was another bad day.  Pop went to UNC where they gave him 2 bags of Potassium and 1 bag of Magnesium.  It was almost 7 pm by the time they left to head home.

Today, he continues to be very tired (though a bit better than yesterday), short of breath, pale, and all around run-down.  He did however, leave the house and not to go to the hospital!  Pop Pop accompanied the Cordoba Sisters to Joanne's Fabric just to get out.  He mostly stayed in the car because he was "too exhausted" keep up with the ladies.  Just getting out in the car is a highlight for him these days, he says he enjoys just feeling the fresh air.

Tomorrow he returns to UNC for another blood test. He insists that he can drive himself.  Ann was going to drive him but he called and cancelled (let the record show, I was not happy about this choice).  I have emailed Ranju (from UNC) to make sure that this is ok with them.

Lastly, Nurse Lucha is returning to the back specialist to get an injection for her back again.  You know she is in pain if she is voluntarily getting an injection! (For my prayers out there ... please add her to your list.)

BREAKING NEWS ...

It seems that Pop Pop has had another nose bleed tonight and has come to the realization that he does not actually feel well enough to drive himself.  Thank you Ann for your help.

MOVIE UPDATE ...

Our favorite movie critic says thumbs down, actually it was "don't watch" ... The Box.

October 19, 2010

Last night was a BAD night.  The pain started in his gluteus maximus (took percocet), then traveled to his kidney (took a percocet),  made its way to his shoulders (another percocet), and finally morning came (surprisingly without much sleep) and the pain slowly started to fade throughout the day.  However, the lack of energy and shortness of breath persisted.

He did make it out of the house for a joy ride to Nana's doctor, where he remained in the car during her visit.

Entertainment has consisted of Avatar and It's Complicated...both received a thumbs up!

Few Loose Ends...

1. The poll has ended & thank you to those of you who voted.  The final results showed that an overwhelming 75% of voters feel ...YES, Eduardo should grow his beard to 8 inches as well.
   
2. Eduardo has also informed me that he is using his head to double donate ... that is ... 8 inches to Pantene and he will participate in St. Baldrick's fundraiser when he shaves his head.  Funds raised go toward childhood cancer resrearch http://www.stbaldricks.org/.  Yeah!!!!!

October 18, 2010

Just as we anticipated,putting off a blood transfusion for a patient who's levels are clearly declining is NOT a good decision!  Last night Pop Pop had a nose bleed and this morning he awoke with very little energy at all.  He canceled his appointment at Rex (not surprisingly) and went to UNC where he learned that he was in need of ...

1. 2 pints of blood (blood transfusion)
2. Potassium (potassium infusion)
3. Platelets (platelet transfusion)
4. Magnesium
5. Phosphate

(I will spare you my personal ranting and raving about how I feel about this entire situation.)

Needless to say, Nana & Pop Pop both had a LONG day!  After spending the entire day at the hospital, I am happy to report that  both patient and nurse are at home ...exhausted.

my poor daddy!

October 16 & 17

Just as we anticipated Pop Pop has felt increasingly worse and continues on that path since he is waiting to receive his blood transfusion.  Today, he choose a spot on the couch and owned it ... vowing not to move from that specific location unless absolutely necessary.  He has an appointment at UNC tomorrow to have his blood work done and where they will do a much needed blood transfusion.  Nurse Lucha has been so worried about him and doing her best to stay strong beside him.  I can only hope that tomorrow will bring relief to them both.

Pop Pop hang in there we are all routing for you!!