I had hoped that I would never have to post on this site again. I don't even know if anyone still receives updates or visits this site. Today the doctors have confirmed that Pop Pop's Lymphoma has returned. Monday he has a PET scan scheduled so we can learn more about where the cancer is located and whether it is localized or if it has spread. Tuesday, he will enter the hospital for at least 2 days during which time he will receive a treatment in hope to prevent the cancer from continuing to spread further.
I will post updates as we learn more as in the week to come expect to receive test results.
October 29, 2011
December 15, 2010
December 14, 2010
Everyday seems to have it's ups and downs. Although Pop Pop's numbers have been going up (that is until today), he still has his moments. For instance we learned the hard way that he does not metabolize nor respond well to Oxycodone. It apparently makes him hallucinate and Dalaudid gives him tremors. Balancing his medications (accounting for their effects on his kidneys and BP) has been a battle, according to his doctor it is because of this his BP has been out of control. Two days ago, Pop Pop developed pneumonia (thankfully the doctors quickly and aggressively treated it, so it is not as bad as it could be) which has put a strain on breathing (a very important function). Also he has retained an extra liter of fluid. The doctors are trying to eliminate the amount of fluids he receives because his lungs have water.
For the first time in days, Pop Pop's numbers have gone down. He continues having difficulty breathing without the Oxygen. The doctor has given him an idea of where he needs to be (physically) prior to being discharged and has again reiterated that he prefers for Pop Pop and Nurse Lucha to stay at the family housing around the corner once he is discharged.
Nurse Lucha and Assistant Mau have been at Pop Pop's side daily, I know Mau has been a very big help to them both. Twice this week Pop Pop has had a sleep over, once with Nurse Lucha and Assistant Mau, and the other time with Eduardo. Everyone has become very familiar with the hospital staff, personally I like the lady who calls Pop Pop "Papi" and Barbara who sets everyone straight (including Nurse Lucha...sending her to go see her doctors too).
For the first time in days, Pop Pop's numbers have gone down. He continues having difficulty breathing without the Oxygen. The doctor has given him an idea of where he needs to be (physically) prior to being discharged and has again reiterated that he prefers for Pop Pop and Nurse Lucha to stay at the family housing around the corner once he is discharged.
Nurse Lucha and Assistant Mau have been at Pop Pop's side daily, I know Mau has been a very big help to them both. Twice this week Pop Pop has had a sleep over, once with Nurse Lucha and Assistant Mau, and the other time with Eduardo. Everyone has become very familiar with the hospital staff, personally I like the lady who calls Pop Pop "Papi" and Barbara who sets everyone straight (including Nurse Lucha...sending her to go see her doctors too).
December 9, 2010
December 8, 2010
The happy couple celebrated their 43rd Wedding anniversary by renewing their vows to one another (in the hospital room). The whole ceremony was short and sweet and the room was bursting with love. We crammed Mauricio, Eduardo, Allison, Caroline, Juan, Isabella, Alexander, Dr. Woods, a nurse, the chaplin, Nana and Pop Pop(of course), and me as well as a few cameras and Nicole, Ana and Alycia (via Skype)... all in one tiny room (as I said, bursting with love). Though we missed Carlos and the gang very much!
There is something to be said to watch your parents profess their love to one another.
On a side note: I was soooooo happy to see my daddy (yes, I still call him daddy), I miss him too much. Now I just can't wait until the day I can kiss him (I had to keep my mask on).
December 8, 2010
December 7, 2010
I realize that a lot of time has passed since my last post and I feel like I owe you an apology and an explanation. Especially if this is your main source of information on Pop Pop's well being. So, please accept my sincerest apology.
As for a brief explanation of where the time has gone
11/17 - 11/21: We were busy getting "things" in order prior to Pop Pop going into the hospital. During that time, he continued to have his regular lab appointments.
11/22 - 11/23 Pop Pop continued with his lab visits and he was had testing done to be cleared for the Bone Marrow Transplant. On 11/23, we learned that his cancer is still present. We hope that the BMT will kill the remaining cancer, otherwise he may have to have radiation as well.
11/24 Pop Pop was admitted to UNC hospital for a Bone Marrow Transplant (though the transplant does not take place until more chemo is administered) He will remain in the hospital for 3-4 weeks.
11/24 - 11/29 Pop Pop underwent a long & very strong 6 day chemotherapy treatment. During which time his levels began to drop.
11/30 He received his stem cells that were harvested on 11/16
12/1 - 12/6 His levels continued to drop. His white blood cells dropped below 0 and he is very susceptible to germs. Each day is more difficult than the day prior.
12/7 His blood cells are finally on the rise however they are still critically low and a hair above 0 (0.1). During this transition period we are told that he will continue to feel worse with each day. Currently he has soars in this mouth and throat that cause "excruciating pain". He was given a lot of drugs today and was flying high. I still have not seen him, but my understanding is that he is weak, he can not stand, he has barely eaten and is in pain. Yet when I speak with him on the phone, he still jokes and laughs.
ON A HAPPIER NOTE:
Thanksgiving came early this year for Nana and Pop Pop as the Gomez Clan surprised him with a Thanksgiving Feast the night before he went to the hospital. He enjoyed many delectable delights. Also, Mauricio, Nicole and the girls were able to come to NC during the thanksgiving break. Pop Pop was visited in the hospital many times by Mau, Nicole, and the girls & of coarse Eduardo, Allison, and Caroline (Harrison is too little). Nurse Lucha has held strong and has been well cared for by the boys. Mau is back in town for the next two weeks and will be able to help Lucha with the driving back and forth among other things. (I feel like we need a nickname for him). I will have to see if I can get some pictures from some of his visits with everyone.
As for a brief explanation of where the time has gone
11/17 - 11/21: We were busy getting "things" in order prior to Pop Pop going into the hospital. During that time, he continued to have his regular lab appointments.
- 11/22: I was out of town. Although I spoke on the phone daily with everyone, I found it difficult to give an accurate report (hence, no blog). I returned on 12/02 (pm); however, I discovered while away that I had bronchitis...which meant I still could not see him. Tomorrow, I hope to see him for the first time (though I need to check with his nurses first). I miss him so much!
11/22 - 11/23 Pop Pop continued with his lab visits and he was had testing done to be cleared for the Bone Marrow Transplant. On 11/23, we learned that his cancer is still present. We hope that the BMT will kill the remaining cancer, otherwise he may have to have radiation as well.
11/24 Pop Pop was admitted to UNC hospital for a Bone Marrow Transplant (though the transplant does not take place until more chemo is administered) He will remain in the hospital for 3-4 weeks.
11/24 - 11/29 Pop Pop underwent a long & very strong 6 day chemotherapy treatment. During which time his levels began to drop.
11/30 He received his stem cells that were harvested on 11/16
12/1 - 12/6 His levels continued to drop. His white blood cells dropped below 0 and he is very susceptible to germs. Each day is more difficult than the day prior.
12/7 His blood cells are finally on the rise however they are still critically low and a hair above 0 (0.1). During this transition period we are told that he will continue to feel worse with each day. Currently he has soars in this mouth and throat that cause "excruciating pain". He was given a lot of drugs today and was flying high. I still have not seen him, but my understanding is that he is weak, he can not stand, he has barely eaten and is in pain. Yet when I speak with him on the phone, he still jokes and laughs.
ON A HAPPIER NOTE:
Thanksgiving came early this year for Nana and Pop Pop as the Gomez Clan surprised him with a Thanksgiving Feast the night before he went to the hospital. He enjoyed many delectable delights. Also, Mauricio, Nicole and the girls were able to come to NC during the thanksgiving break. Pop Pop was visited in the hospital many times by Mau, Nicole, and the girls & of coarse Eduardo, Allison, and Caroline (Harrison is too little). Nurse Lucha has held strong and has been well cared for by the boys. Mau is back in town for the next two weeks and will be able to help Lucha with the driving back and forth among other things. (I feel like we need a nickname for him). I will have to see if I can get some pictures from some of his visits with everyone.
November 18, 2010
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!
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 17, 2010
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
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).
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
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."
"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, 2010
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.
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.
November 11, 2010
November 10, 2010
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 8, 2010
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)!
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 5, 2010
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
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
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
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.
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.
October 25, 2010
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!
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!
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