Saturday, March 31, 2012

PacingThrough The Race - In-Patient Treatment Mile Marker 6.5

It has been a little over a week now and things are beginning to settle into somewhat of a routine.  Bill no longer feels like such a pin cushion; a PIC line was placed so blood work can be done and IVs given without sticking him. He handled his bone marrow biopsy like a trooper which is good because these will occur fairly frequently during his treatment.  For the time being masks are not required which makes visiting much more pleasant.  He had a visit this morning from the lead research physician overseeing his clinical trial who said from all indications his body is handling the chemotherapy regimen as expected.  Today is day three.  He first gets an injection of Neupogen, a drug which helps counteract the immunosuppressive effect of chemotherapy.  Then an hour of chemo, break for four hours and then another two hours of chemo.  This will occur five days on, two days off.  So far he has felt a little fatigued but no nausea or other unanticipated side effects.  Yesterday he even strolled his IV down to the atrium in the cancer center where a concert was taking place.  I have a feeling soon he will be playing his ukelele right along side the other musicians! He has family/friends staying with him around the clock and the team at Stanford are very accommodating.  His daughter Brenna had to head back to the University of Arizona but son Brady is able to stay awhile longer.  He and Bill are hanging out watching basketball this afternoon. 

When we arrived last Saturday we were told to plan for at least a one month stay.  Well one down and only three to go!  This is a day to day journey and, like running a marathon, must be paced slowly but without ever losing site of the finish line.  As long as things continue to be OK at the end of each day we feel more and more positive about the long-term outcome.  All of your love, support, prayers and good thoughts are definitely making a difference so keep 'em coming!   Lisa

6 comments:

  1. Lisa you are amazing. I am definitely inspired by your courage and fortitude. You both are very fortunate to
    have each other. You both are in my daily thoughts and prayers. Love to you both. JoAnne Birmingham

    ReplyDelete
  2. Lisa- JoAnne said it perfectly. I think about you and Bill every day...love, Jeane

    ReplyDelete
  3. Bill, my thoughts and prayers are with you every day. Go the distance and finish strong, my friend.
    Marilyn Cox

    ReplyDelete
  4. Bill

    Sorry to hear your going through this my friend. You will be just fine. You will come out of this one as a winner. We are thinking of you and look forward to see you complete your treatment soon. Take care!!

    Joaquin Rascon

    ReplyDelete
  5. RSD_Terry Apr 7, 2012 08:45 AM

    Hey Bill, we haven't seen any posts here recently, so I hope everything is going well with your treatment.

It's AR 50 today. Looking forward to seeing you back out on the trails.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Thomas Neubert Apr 9, 2012 12:35 PM
    
Hi Bill,

    Arnon just sent the note. Sorry to hear the news but runners, especially team leaders like yourself, have the unique ability to heal fast and be surrounded by good spirits. We will think of you tomorrow night during the Coach meeting. All the best and c u at the next possible Saturday morning session.

greetings 
Thomas N.

    ReplyDelete