Although I have not been faithful in writing things on the blog, I still think about writing something nearly every day. A lot has happened since the last time. I lost a prayer warrior who went to be with the Lord because of her cancer. I have been very busy with work, grand kids, church and most importantly, LIFE.
It has been two years this week since they operated on me for the first time and we found out that I had melanoma and that it was malignant and went into my lymph nodes. Time has flown since we first had cancer confirmed and then the news that time was not on my side.
Well, an awesome God, great family, good friends and prayer warriors have made it so that I am still two years later.
However lucky people say I must be, I think that they are thinking lucky in the wrong sense. I am lucky that family took the time to care and look into ways of changing my life style. I am lucky that I had friends who stood up and made the suggestions of doctors and clinics that could help me as well as be there to talk and support. And the prayers warriors. I cannot tell you how many times I felt the prayers. In my darkest hours I could always feel the prayers.
Thank you all.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Someone took over the blog
As you can see in the last posting, a magical fairy or something took over the blog and put a bunch of new baby pictures and Canada pictures on. (make sure you read past this post to see what I am talking about) It wasn't me or Patti. We have been very busy. In the past week we have driven over 2000 miles. A trip to Canada, a trip to Lima and a trip to Maryland. We have been in 5 states and 1 province in the past week. All of this after the birth of our newest grandson. I will tell you that I was sweating and dreading going on these trips when Heather was so close to delivery. Well, she and Little Ron (Arrie) helped end that when he was born two weeks early last week. He was a wrapped up bundle of joy (in more ways than one. He was literally wrapped up in the womb, that is why he could not turn or drop)
Patti and I spent a wonderful 4 days with the Staretts in Canada at their cabin. Even with the misadventure of trying to get a prospective buyer for the cabin in on Friday, rain on Saturday and a very early start home on Sunday. The 27 trout I caught and the 10 that Ken caught (and released all) in one hour and twenty minutes on Saturday afternoon made the trip worthwhile. Of course, we found out trout season had ended three days before so it was a good thing we let them go. We seem to catch the most fish either before or after the season begins. I found out what it is like to be a fish and get hooked. I put a treble hook thru my finger getting one of the trout off. I almost quit fishing at that point, but instead just bit off the line and left the lure in my finger while I put another lure on and ended up catching 9 more nice size trout. I worked the lure out of my finger as I walked back in the stream to where Ken and the four wheelers were.
On our trip out to meet the prospective buyer on Friday, the dam was shutdown and we could not cross because it was being worked on. Trying to find another way around we did stumble upon two new lakes we had never known were there. We will have to try them out next summer when we go back. I know all the grandson's are looking forward to going back up as well as Patti, Steve, Ron, Heather and me.
The one part of the trip that was special is that the day we left, October 1st is exactly 2 years to the day that I found my cancer. It was a special time for me and Patti driving up in the camper to Canada. It was only about a month after finding it that we were told I had 4 1/2 months to a year probably to live. We know now that God had other plans for us. I guess he isn't finished with me yet. I thank him for that and for giving me this time to see two new grandchildren come into this world since then. Now I just want to see them all graduate, get married and see my great grandchildren. Maybe it's a big request, but then again I have a Big God.
Patti and I spent a wonderful 4 days with the Staretts in Canada at their cabin. Even with the misadventure of trying to get a prospective buyer for the cabin in on Friday, rain on Saturday and a very early start home on Sunday. The 27 trout I caught and the 10 that Ken caught (and released all) in one hour and twenty minutes on Saturday afternoon made the trip worthwhile. Of course, we found out trout season had ended three days before so it was a good thing we let them go. We seem to catch the most fish either before or after the season begins. I found out what it is like to be a fish and get hooked. I put a treble hook thru my finger getting one of the trout off. I almost quit fishing at that point, but instead just bit off the line and left the lure in my finger while I put another lure on and ended up catching 9 more nice size trout. I worked the lure out of my finger as I walked back in the stream to where Ken and the four wheelers were.
On our trip out to meet the prospective buyer on Friday, the dam was shutdown and we could not cross because it was being worked on. Trying to find another way around we did stumble upon two new lakes we had never known were there. We will have to try them out next summer when we go back. I know all the grandson's are looking forward to going back up as well as Patti, Steve, Ron, Heather and me.
The one part of the trip that was special is that the day we left, October 1st is exactly 2 years to the day that I found my cancer. It was a special time for me and Patti driving up in the camper to Canada. It was only about a month after finding it that we were told I had 4 1/2 months to a year probably to live. We know now that God had other plans for us. I guess he isn't finished with me yet. I thank him for that and for giving me this time to see two new grandchildren come into this world since then. Now I just want to see them all graduate, get married and see my great grandchildren. Maybe it's a big request, but then again I have a Big God.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Monday, September 21, 2009
Quick Note
Times here have been busy trying to get more work for the company, getting ready for colder weather and just trying to catch up on a lot of things. And getting ready for a new grandchild. Oh yeah, and AWANA starting as Patti just told me over my shoulder.
September is a busy month usually with birthdays, anniversaries and the like. The 19th would have been my Grandpa Moore's 100th birthday. He has been gone now for 30 years. He is one of the two people I would like to talk to if God would grant me the opportunity. (without dying of course) He was very influential in my life. Although he had his faults, he taught me a good work ethic and a loyalty to family.
Patti's sister, Steven T's, our daughter-in-law Stacy's, Patti's Dad and Caleb's birthdays are all in September. Probably the biggest event for Patti and I is our anniversary coming up. 36 years and counting. I pray that God gives us another 36 years. I would really like to see if people will still think Patti is my daughter then. I guess Patti just looks that young and it is easier to say that rather than to say I must look like an old man. Only our hairdresser knows for sure.
Anyways, off on more travels. I really do mean this from the depths of my soul. God take care of you all and I hope you find the peace of God when time are good or bad. He is always there.
September is a busy month usually with birthdays, anniversaries and the like. The 19th would have been my Grandpa Moore's 100th birthday. He has been gone now for 30 years. He is one of the two people I would like to talk to if God would grant me the opportunity. (without dying of course) He was very influential in my life. Although he had his faults, he taught me a good work ethic and a loyalty to family.
Patti's sister, Steven T's, our daughter-in-law Stacy's, Patti's Dad and Caleb's birthdays are all in September. Probably the biggest event for Patti and I is our anniversary coming up. 36 years and counting. I pray that God gives us another 36 years. I would really like to see if people will still think Patti is my daughter then. I guess Patti just looks that young and it is easier to say that rather than to say I must look like an old man. Only our hairdresser knows for sure.
Anyways, off on more travels. I really do mean this from the depths of my soul. God take care of you all and I hope you find the peace of God when time are good or bad. He is always there.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Just a thought that you might what to think about too.
Patti and I just got back from a 535 mile trip visiting job sites that we are bidding next week. I was probably quieter that usual because something kept creeping back into my mind. A few days ago the fellow that handles stocks and bonds for us asked me a question after we had talked about my health and my investment thoughts. He asked me if, after facing so close a prospect of death, did I have any regrets in my life. Now I know I did not give him the answer he was looking for, as I figure he was talking about not investing in stocks he had recommended and they could have made me money. Instead I answered him with a resounding "NO". I think it took him back, and quite honestly it took me back a little also. He asked me again and I told him the same. Are you sure he questioned? Yes, I am sure. I have no regrets and I told him why I didn't. When I looked back on my life a few weeks ago, after the good news from the doctor, I found that there were many things I did right as well as too many things wrong. Why no regrets on the wrong things. Simple, I told him. God put good things and bad things in my way and I learned from both. I would not be the man I am today without those things, right & wrong, good & bad. God has sent us all on a race as the Apostle Paul put it, and it's up to us how we run the race. Think about it. We can cheat or we can be honest. We can face obstacle and overcome them or let them slow us down. We can stumble and fall, but what do we do when we are down matters most. Some get up and soon fall again because we have never looked at why we fell, we just blame someone or something so we will fall again. Some get up and then just crawl along, so afraid of falling that we never really reach our potential. And then there are those who get up, understand the reason they fell, but go back full speed knowing full well they may fall again and again, but take the chance anyways knowing they must always get back up and head for the finish line because we know those who run the good race have God himself waiting there at the end.
Regrets, none.
Regrets, none.
Monday, August 24, 2009
It's been a month
Well, a month has passed by and a lot of you have asked me to update the blog since receiving the good news from the doctor. Well, we have been busy with going to Canada with the boys. We had fun fishing and four wheeling. The weather turned great when the boys left I am sorry to say, but I think that they had fun. We got in trouble one night for going on a 53 mile trip that did not get us back to 10:30 at night. And in Canada, when it gets dark, it's really dark. Josh fell asleep about 25 miles from the cabin, so Ron first, then Steve T had to hold him and drive. It makes it hard when the brake is on the left and the throttle on the right, and Josh dead weight. It made things hard. Caleb and Micah rode with me and Ron had Ty. Ken ended up being the one in trouble since it was his idea.
Fishing, Steve T caught the biggest walleye. Of course, he is the one who doesn't particularly care to fish. The boys had their own rods that were purchased, but ended up making their own out of a stick, string, a bobber and a hook. The only one that fell in was Ty. We thought for sure it would be Josh. After the boys left Ken and I fished and we did well. One day I caught 43 trout and Ken caught probably 20. The next time we fished the stream I caught 3 and I think Ken caught 5. The walleye fishing was much better.
The girls took up a motto from a past presidential thing and it fit well. Every time we left the cabin it was "no child left behind." It was too much fun having them along anyways.
Well one of the reasons it really has taken me this long to put something down is that I have several of my friends out there reading this blog who have not been as fortunate as me with their test. I guess I have been feeling a little guilty about me getting a good report and them not. And I have probably become somewhat of a overboard person on healthy eating and what I see as advantages of alternative treatments. I figure God put so many people in my way when I was doing the conventional to change that I almost feel that this is a calling for me. To tell people to take charge of their health care and not go blindly into it. But I also want people to know that everyone is different. Both conventional and alternative medicine can help, it is up to you to do your job in checking it out. There are no silver bullets that cure one disease or another. I look at all the different alternative, their ability to do what they say and what the side effects are. I also read all the labels. Until recently I never read a toothpaste label. Have you? It amazed me that if you swallow more than a toothbrush length of a fluoride toothpaste, they recommend going to a hospital or a poison center. Don't believe me, just read the label. And when you do, keep on reading all the labels.
Well I will end now. Please pray for those out there who are struggling with cancer and not getting results that are positive. Many are taking it in stride, as we all will be with the Lord some day, but pray for a peace and not much pain as they battle on. Thank you all for the prayers you said for me, but now offer it up to my friends who need them more than I do now.
Fishing, Steve T caught the biggest walleye. Of course, he is the one who doesn't particularly care to fish. The boys had their own rods that were purchased, but ended up making their own out of a stick, string, a bobber and a hook. The only one that fell in was Ty. We thought for sure it would be Josh. After the boys left Ken and I fished and we did well. One day I caught 43 trout and Ken caught probably 20. The next time we fished the stream I caught 3 and I think Ken caught 5. The walleye fishing was much better.
The girls took up a motto from a past presidential thing and it fit well. Every time we left the cabin it was "no child left behind." It was too much fun having them along anyways.
Well one of the reasons it really has taken me this long to put something down is that I have several of my friends out there reading this blog who have not been as fortunate as me with their test. I guess I have been feeling a little guilty about me getting a good report and them not. And I have probably become somewhat of a overboard person on healthy eating and what I see as advantages of alternative treatments. I figure God put so many people in my way when I was doing the conventional to change that I almost feel that this is a calling for me. To tell people to take charge of their health care and not go blindly into it. But I also want people to know that everyone is different. Both conventional and alternative medicine can help, it is up to you to do your job in checking it out. There are no silver bullets that cure one disease or another. I look at all the different alternative, their ability to do what they say and what the side effects are. I also read all the labels. Until recently I never read a toothpaste label. Have you? It amazed me that if you swallow more than a toothbrush length of a fluoride toothpaste, they recommend going to a hospital or a poison center. Don't believe me, just read the label. And when you do, keep on reading all the labels.
Well I will end now. Please pray for those out there who are struggling with cancer and not getting results that are positive. Many are taking it in stride, as we all will be with the Lord some day, but pray for a peace and not much pain as they battle on. Thank you all for the prayers you said for me, but now offer it up to my friends who need them more than I do now.
Friday, July 24, 2009
The Results are In.
I had the result of my biopsy that was taken last week. I got the results yesterday. The spot on my back was nothing more than an abnormal mole.
Later Thursday while traveling north on I-71, we got a call from our regular doctor. He had the results from my PET scan. Patti handed me the cell phone just as we approached Dead Mans Curve. Patti had visions going thru her head of what our alternative doctor had told us, that I would not die from cancer but watch stepping in front of a bus. (or driving 60+ miles an hour towards dead man's curve and getting an update from the doctor who last year at this time told me the tests showed I had brain cancer) Well he was excited and started by telling me he had the greatest news he could have possibly ever imagined. From head to toe there was no sign of cancer showing up. Further, the area of my surgery had healed so well that there was no evidence internally that I had been operated on. He said he believed I was cancer free. He also said he would never have imagined telling me that. Well, Patti and I know that no one is cancer free. The news was great and just reaffirmed to both of us that what we are doing seems to be working, contrary to what our conventional doctors had told us when I went off the Interferon. So we will keep up with the supplements, diet changes, exercise, reduce stress and the greatest part of all, Trusting in a God who looks out for us.
Well, it is late and Patti and I just got back from visiting 44 different work sites in West Central Ohio. It was a long day with over 10 hours of driving so it is off to bed so I can get that other part of our lifestyle change, 8-9 hours of sleep. We both have a busy day tomorrow. I just wish I could have had the results the day before for Heather's 33rd birthday. That would have been a good birthday present for her, but I think being one day later was just as good. God bless you all who have kept me in your thoughts and prayers.
Later Thursday while traveling north on I-71, we got a call from our regular doctor. He had the results from my PET scan. Patti handed me the cell phone just as we approached Dead Mans Curve. Patti had visions going thru her head of what our alternative doctor had told us, that I would not die from cancer but watch stepping in front of a bus. (or driving 60+ miles an hour towards dead man's curve and getting an update from the doctor who last year at this time told me the tests showed I had brain cancer) Well he was excited and started by telling me he had the greatest news he could have possibly ever imagined. From head to toe there was no sign of cancer showing up. Further, the area of my surgery had healed so well that there was no evidence internally that I had been operated on. He said he believed I was cancer free. He also said he would never have imagined telling me that. Well, Patti and I know that no one is cancer free. The news was great and just reaffirmed to both of us that what we are doing seems to be working, contrary to what our conventional doctors had told us when I went off the Interferon. So we will keep up with the supplements, diet changes, exercise, reduce stress and the greatest part of all, Trusting in a God who looks out for us.
Well, it is late and Patti and I just got back from visiting 44 different work sites in West Central Ohio. It was a long day with over 10 hours of driving so it is off to bed so I can get that other part of our lifestyle change, 8-9 hours of sleep. We both have a busy day tomorrow. I just wish I could have had the results the day before for Heather's 33rd birthday. That would have been a good birthday present for her, but I think being one day later was just as good. God bless you all who have kept me in your thoughts and prayers.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Biopsy and PET scan
Last Wednesday I went to the dermatologist and had another suspect mole removed from my back. As of today we have heard nothing back on it. I will have Patti remove the stitches tomorrow so they will quit poking me. It was real fun avoiding the pat of the backs at church this past Sunday. I guess it is good to be a wallflower sometimes in your life. In this case, to protect both sides of my back.
The PET scan we did this morning at 7AM. I drank 32+ ounces of water in the two hours before the test and 32+ ounces after the injection of the radioactive sugar water. Then I drank two 16 ounce bottle of Patti's organic tea, tomato juice and another 16 ounces to take my pills today. Needless to say, I spent a lot of time drinking and, well you know what else. Hopefully we will get the negative results back soon.
Some are wondering why I did the PET scan after talking so much about "alternative" medicines that I was doing. Well, it has been probably two full years since the cancer started and I wanted to know where we stood. With the test results I can see if I am on the right track or not. If things look good, then we will continue on the course we are going. If not, well then we will alter course to try something else. (except chemo or radiation, never again) I feel everything is going good as my blood work from both the alternative and the conventional doctors came back good with the exception of a lower killer cell report than we wanted. They are there, I just need more. We are working on that with some additional supplements.
Just a few tidbits of information I have found (and confirmed).
Americans consume 170# of sugar a year. In 1900 it was less than 6# per family.
One out of two men and one out of three women will get cancer in the USA.
It costs the average cancer patient $1.2M to die from cancer.
Chemo and radiation extend the life of a woman with breast cancer by 2 months on average.
Interferon work on two or three persons out of 1000 for cancer.
Only 3% of the know cancers are cured by chemo. That is 5-6 out of the 200 known cancers.
YOUR BEST DEFENSE AND CURE FOR MOST CANCER IS YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM. (PER THE ONCOLOGISTS OWN REPORTS IN 1995) Melanoma only has one known cure other than surgery in the early stages and that is your own immune system.
I guess I now look at cancer as that little deformed cell that has lined many pockets. There are over 350 non toxic, non burning and non surgical things to try that have been proven over the years and have as good if not better percentage than chemo and radiation. A person should look into alternative as well as conventional to chart their own course on how they are going to fight cancer. There are four "A"s to fighting cancer or any disease:
Attitude: Stay positive. Remember, everyone dies, but you are not going to let some stinking disease rob you of your life that God has given.
Advocate: Have someone there with you and to keep you going in good and bad times. Also the other ear in the room to listen to what the doctors say so you can make a clear choice. It is scary when someone says "cancer" so you may or may not hear all that they have to say.
Advice: Talk to the professionals and get different opinions on the different options.
Action: Take charge of your health care and the course you are going to take. You have to leave the "buyers remorse" on the table and chart a course that best suits you, and if you have to change course, do it.
Well this is my little venting of sorts. With the "health care crisis" in full force out there, maybe people should just take charge themselves and forget about the magic pill that always seems be not be the magic pill a short while later.
May God give you peace on your decisions as he has given me peace about mine.
The PET scan we did this morning at 7AM. I drank 32+ ounces of water in the two hours before the test and 32+ ounces after the injection of the radioactive sugar water. Then I drank two 16 ounce bottle of Patti's organic tea, tomato juice and another 16 ounces to take my pills today. Needless to say, I spent a lot of time drinking and, well you know what else. Hopefully we will get the negative results back soon.
Some are wondering why I did the PET scan after talking so much about "alternative" medicines that I was doing. Well, it has been probably two full years since the cancer started and I wanted to know where we stood. With the test results I can see if I am on the right track or not. If things look good, then we will continue on the course we are going. If not, well then we will alter course to try something else. (except chemo or radiation, never again) I feel everything is going good as my blood work from both the alternative and the conventional doctors came back good with the exception of a lower killer cell report than we wanted. They are there, I just need more. We are working on that with some additional supplements.
Just a few tidbits of information I have found (and confirmed).
Americans consume 170# of sugar a year. In 1900 it was less than 6# per family.
One out of two men and one out of three women will get cancer in the USA.
It costs the average cancer patient $1.2M to die from cancer.
Chemo and radiation extend the life of a woman with breast cancer by 2 months on average.
Interferon work on two or three persons out of 1000 for cancer.
Only 3% of the know cancers are cured by chemo. That is 5-6 out of the 200 known cancers.
YOUR BEST DEFENSE AND CURE FOR MOST CANCER IS YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM. (PER THE ONCOLOGISTS OWN REPORTS IN 1995) Melanoma only has one known cure other than surgery in the early stages and that is your own immune system.
I guess I now look at cancer as that little deformed cell that has lined many pockets. There are over 350 non toxic, non burning and non surgical things to try that have been proven over the years and have as good if not better percentage than chemo and radiation. A person should look into alternative as well as conventional to chart their own course on how they are going to fight cancer. There are four "A"s to fighting cancer or any disease:
Attitude: Stay positive. Remember, everyone dies, but you are not going to let some stinking disease rob you of your life that God has given.
Advocate: Have someone there with you and to keep you going in good and bad times. Also the other ear in the room to listen to what the doctors say so you can make a clear choice. It is scary when someone says "cancer" so you may or may not hear all that they have to say.
Advice: Talk to the professionals and get different opinions on the different options.
Action: Take charge of your health care and the course you are going to take. You have to leave the "buyers remorse" on the table and chart a course that best suits you, and if you have to change course, do it.
Well this is my little venting of sorts. With the "health care crisis" in full force out there, maybe people should just take charge themselves and forget about the magic pill that always seems be not be the magic pill a short while later.
May God give you peace on your decisions as he has given me peace about mine.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Doctors visits and more tests
We both visited our regular doctor for our annual physical on Tuesday after we returned from a weekend trip to Canada at Mary Louise and Ken's cabin. (More on that further down.) We got the results back today. In a nutshell, he told us whatever we are doing, keep doing it because our results are good. My lymph counts are a little low so we will have to find a way of working on that. Lymph count is your killer cells. Being low is probably the reason this virus in my throat keeps lingering on. Patti needs to cut back on the bananas as her potassium was high. I dropped 70 points on my cholesterol by 70 points from just a few months ago. HDL and LDL are within the OK range.
I went for another nutritional IV today and it gave me a lot of pep. I have been dragging after driving nearly 3000 miles from Monday to Monday. Visited a job site in southern Ohio, Yorktown, Virginia and then up to Canada and back.
Canada was great. Did about 60+ miles on the four wheeler and caught some nice walleye. Had a good meal of fish on Sunday night. I am happy to say this time I did catch the biggest. That is not always the case but this time I lucked out. The weather was nice for Friday, Saturday and most of Sunday. It rained Sunday night and Monday morning until we left. On the way in to the cabin we saw a black bear and got some photo's and a movie. On the way out we saw a bull moose and again got some pictures and a movie. We also saw skunks at the cabin, grouse and her young while four wheeling and a huge "crane" that must have had a wing span of 7 or 8 feet. Ken thought that it was a deer at first running in front of us then it took off.
Well, Patti informs me that it is time to put the bikes on the back of the car and go to the park for some exercise. I will try and post the pictures of Canada later.
Please continue to pray for my health to keep improving and my killer cells levels to come up. I will have a PET/CT scan sometime next week to check. I just wanted it for a marker to go by on how things look. Pray for me for that too. I hate that test.
I went for another nutritional IV today and it gave me a lot of pep. I have been dragging after driving nearly 3000 miles from Monday to Monday. Visited a job site in southern Ohio, Yorktown, Virginia and then up to Canada and back.
Canada was great. Did about 60+ miles on the four wheeler and caught some nice walleye. Had a good meal of fish on Sunday night. I am happy to say this time I did catch the biggest. That is not always the case but this time I lucked out. The weather was nice for Friday, Saturday and most of Sunday. It rained Sunday night and Monday morning until we left. On the way in to the cabin we saw a black bear and got some photo's and a movie. On the way out we saw a bull moose and again got some pictures and a movie. We also saw skunks at the cabin, grouse and her young while four wheeling and a huge "crane" that must have had a wing span of 7 or 8 feet. Ken thought that it was a deer at first running in front of us then it took off.
Well, Patti informs me that it is time to put the bikes on the back of the car and go to the park for some exercise. I will try and post the pictures of Canada later.
Please continue to pray for my health to keep improving and my killer cells levels to come up. I will have a PET/CT scan sometime next week to check. I just wanted it for a marker to go by on how things look. Pray for me for that too. I hate that test.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Summer is here
It has been three weeks since I last wrote something. I have been hesitant because my throat and neck have continually bothered me and I really did not want to seem to be a whiner. Right now we are waiting on doctors to get back from their vacations. I think we are going to do a CT scan to see what is going on. This irritation keeps moving around so much that it has be frustrated. For a few hours it is in my neck, then in my ear or ears, then it drops into my chest and then lower, into my stomach it feels like. sometimes it is all of these at once. Lately it has been dropping into my back like someone is pulling my muscles and burning them at the same time. One hour I get a dry throat and the next hour it could feel like something is flowing in my throat like when you have a cold and a runny nose. Like I said, it is frustrating as there never seems to be a pattern to what is going on.
Patti and I have continued to travel to jobs as Patti is going to the chiropractor now on a two or three times a week visit. Probably caused by carrying me this past year and a half. Yep, 1 1/2 years this cancer thing has been going on.
We have decided with the economy and to reduce our stress levels, we are putting off building for another year. We will know in July when and if we are going to loose our house to the overpass construction. In all three plans it looks like we will loose it so we will use that money to pay for the new house. It looks like we will keep about one acre under two plans, but the house will be gone. We have been in this house for 31 years. For 29 I just wanted to move but now faced with the reality, I think about all those 31 years and all the memories. Patti just wants to take the trees we planted with us. Problem is one is probably 80 high right now so we will take it as firewood.
I hope and pray all is going well with you and your families. I thank you for all those who ask how I am doing and tell me that they are praying for me. If you want to pray specifically for me, pray about this throat thing and a lessening of the pain in my right armpit area. (I only know it as an armpit, I don't know the medical term that would probably make it sound more appropriate.) Also pray for Patti and strengthening of her back and lessening of the pain. Thanks and God Bless.
Patti and I have continued to travel to jobs as Patti is going to the chiropractor now on a two or three times a week visit. Probably caused by carrying me this past year and a half. Yep, 1 1/2 years this cancer thing has been going on.
We have decided with the economy and to reduce our stress levels, we are putting off building for another year. We will know in July when and if we are going to loose our house to the overpass construction. In all three plans it looks like we will loose it so we will use that money to pay for the new house. It looks like we will keep about one acre under two plans, but the house will be gone. We have been in this house for 31 years. For 29 I just wanted to move but now faced with the reality, I think about all those 31 years and all the memories. Patti just wants to take the trees we planted with us. Problem is one is probably 80 high right now so we will take it as firewood.
I hope and pray all is going well with you and your families. I thank you for all those who ask how I am doing and tell me that they are praying for me. If you want to pray specifically for me, pray about this throat thing and a lessening of the pain in my right armpit area. (I only know it as an armpit, I don't know the medical term that would probably make it sound more appropriate.) Also pray for Patti and strengthening of her back and lessening of the pain. Thanks and God Bless.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
We have been busy
Patti and I traveled this past week to Virginia to look at a job, spend a day at the beach and then drop off our camper at the factory in VA. The job looks like we will get it. It is an Arby's in Yorktown, VA about 1 mile from the battlefield where we beat the British. (unless you read into the fact that there were more British and French fighting than Americans) We then traveled on to a KOA in Virginia Beach on Wednesday night. We stayed there two nights. On Thursday we hopped the trolley and went into the beach area. We walked over 5 miles that day. Had a nice lunch on the boardwalk, bought some salt water taffy for the boys (Mckenna doesn't have the teeth yet for it) took a lot of pictures and in general, had a relaxing day. All day and most of the night F18's fly over as we were right by Oceana Naval Station, the first place where navy carrier pilots train. We saw three aircraft carriers in the area. We did not have a lot of bugs, but the ants were everywhere it seemed.
I continue to fight this virus in my throat and other places as it moves around. It is getting better, but it is still bothersome. I actually think it is now more stress than anything. Let hope and pray that it goes away soon.
Patti and I will be making a fast trip to Chicago the beginning of the week. We have to look at some jobs there for a new customer. It will only be about a 400 mile trip. Lot less that the 1250 miles we traveled this past week. We will have to make a 700 mile trip to pick up the camper the following week. Good thing Patti shares the driving. Before it was not a problem. Now, three hours of driving and I am maxed. I need a break. Patti complains that she always gets the twisty turns of the PA or WV pikes when we travel. She wants to start the drive next time we go and give me the twists and turns. I am just glad to have her along. She really comes up with some good meals when we travel. Yesterday we ate in a Methodist Church parking lot in Winchester, VA. She really picks some interesting spots. Eating in a Walmart parking lot is getting to be a routine with us.
Tomorrow is my 57th birthday. Caleb and Micah came to the office while I was working on some equipment there today and reminded me that today was the last day that I will ever be 56. As Patti's mom says the older you get the fast the birthdays come. Ain't it the truth. Hopefully I have about 40 more. That will put me in a tie with my Grandma Moore. Now if I can just make it to June 5, 2049. I can do it, just so long as Obama doesn't take away everything the next 3 1/2 years.
Pray for our country and our leaders to wake up and get back to what this country was founded on.
I continue to fight this virus in my throat and other places as it moves around. It is getting better, but it is still bothersome. I actually think it is now more stress than anything. Let hope and pray that it goes away soon.
Patti and I will be making a fast trip to Chicago the beginning of the week. We have to look at some jobs there for a new customer. It will only be about a 400 mile trip. Lot less that the 1250 miles we traveled this past week. We will have to make a 700 mile trip to pick up the camper the following week. Good thing Patti shares the driving. Before it was not a problem. Now, three hours of driving and I am maxed. I need a break. Patti complains that she always gets the twisty turns of the PA or WV pikes when we travel. She wants to start the drive next time we go and give me the twists and turns. I am just glad to have her along. She really comes up with some good meals when we travel. Yesterday we ate in a Methodist Church parking lot in Winchester, VA. She really picks some interesting spots. Eating in a Walmart parking lot is getting to be a routine with us.
Tomorrow is my 57th birthday. Caleb and Micah came to the office while I was working on some equipment there today and reminded me that today was the last day that I will ever be 56. As Patti's mom says the older you get the fast the birthdays come. Ain't it the truth. Hopefully I have about 40 more. That will put me in a tie with my Grandma Moore. Now if I can just make it to June 5, 2049. I can do it, just so long as Obama doesn't take away everything the next 3 1/2 years.
Pray for our country and our leaders to wake up and get back to what this country was founded on.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Not the report we expected
I went to get the report on my recent tests and found out everything is good except for my T-8 cells that fight cancer naturally. They have dropped considerably. Also the resistors that cancer cells produce have increased. This is a dramatic change from the last report. The doctor is not quite sure of why this happened after a positive increase the previous report. Although it is not good, it is not terrible. He started me immediately on some changes, both for the cell changes and for the throat that has been bothering me. I took IV injections on Tuesday and Thursday and went to my family doctor on Thursday afternoon. Both have suggested massive amounts of vitamin C. That is what I am doing. My cholesterol is down and everything else is in an optimal range so we will try a few things and wait. Both doctors think the throat thing is a virus that doesn't seem to be getting anywhere because of my body resisting it, but not being able to knock it out. I just need some prayers to get this thing turned around.
I went four wheeling with a group from the church on Friday. Ken Starett and my son Steve went with me. They did OK, I got beat up. I have a busted lip, a bruised foot, a scraped up arm and a build up of fluid in my right arm and shoulder that is quite painful. All in all it was fine, except for the two times I spilled the ATV. Just do not have enough strength in the right arm for the difficult steering when going down rough inclines. Will have to stay to the kiddie and old peoples trails. (yeah, right) I just have to build my left arm to compensate for the weaker right, or get power steering for the ATV.
In all seriousness, pray for me so my cells react to the treatments and medicines to build my T-8 cells and get rid of the resistors. I might have to go to Germany for some treatments for this in the future. And it is very expensive because it is all out of pocket for the month or so we will need to be there.
I went four wheeling with a group from the church on Friday. Ken Starett and my son Steve went with me. They did OK, I got beat up. I have a busted lip, a bruised foot, a scraped up arm and a build up of fluid in my right arm and shoulder that is quite painful. All in all it was fine, except for the two times I spilled the ATV. Just do not have enough strength in the right arm for the difficult steering when going down rough inclines. Will have to stay to the kiddie and old peoples trails. (yeah, right) I just have to build my left arm to compensate for the weaker right, or get power steering for the ATV.
In all seriousness, pray for me so my cells react to the treatments and medicines to build my T-8 cells and get rid of the resistors. I might have to go to Germany for some treatments for this in the future. And it is very expensive because it is all out of pocket for the month or so we will need to be there.
Friday, May 8, 2009
another week gone by
I will be going to the doctor's on Monday to get the results of some tests that I took about three weeks ago. I should have gone this week but I was very busy at work. Patti and I spent the day today running around to get documentation for our passports. We will need them for Canada this summer and also if I need to go overseas for treatment if my cancer would come back. Right now that is on my mind because I have had a problem with my throat for over a month. Patti and I are figuring it is an infection because the problem keeps moving up and down my throat on the right side and up into my right ear. This does it several times a day when it moves. It causes some discomfort but it does not hurt when I swallow. It just feels like a dry spot. Sometimes it builds pressure which result in a series of burping that brings relief. It is of concern and I am trying my best to keep it from being a worry.
I guess this is the lot for those who have had cancer or other serious illness. It is the sword of Damocles as my doctor puts it. Little things that pop up cause you to think the worst. And it does make me feel that way several times. On this I could use prayer as it becomes overwhelming sometimes.
I guess this is the lot for those who have had cancer or other serious illness. It is the sword of Damocles as my doctor puts it. Little things that pop up cause you to think the worst. And it does make me feel that way several times. On this I could use prayer as it becomes overwhelming sometimes.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Another Reason to Live
Well, I know a little more than 18 months ago I was told by the oncologist that there was hope. Then 4 months later, I told him before I went on the interferon that I wanted to see my granddaughter get married and have kids. He rolled his eyes at that and I could tell by the look on his face that in his mind, it was never going to happen. Three months after that he asked Patti and me if I had had a "religious experience." Well now I have been given by Heather, my daughter, another reason to live. With her permission I am telling everyone that Patti and I have another grandchild on the way. Number 6 is expected in October. Is it a boy or a girl? Yes. This means I have one more big reason to stick around even longer.
The next thing is I know I am suppose to be giving sugar up but I had a good reason to go off the wagon today. It was cake and ice cream for Joshua's 4th birthday. He was all excited today as we celebrated his birthday. Oh to have the energy of this 4 year old. And to watch McKenna standing up on her own. Stacy and Steve say she has been doing it every now and then lately, but tonight, she kept doing it as she was the center of attention for some time. She is a real cutie.
Now our goal is to get back on track after this weekend. I worked at the church this morning patching some pot holes and cutting some grass. The grass cutting hurt, so I will not be doing that anymore. The vibration and the bouncing did me in. (Don't tell Patti but I also ate the first donut I have had in probably a year today also. I'm holding everyone who reads this not to tell her or I will be exercising twice as much this week.)
I want to thank those who keep sending me and Patti notes and letters of encouragement. Times are still sometimes trying, but we are weathering them with the love and support we get from our friends, family, each other and God. I thank him every day for giving me one more day. And that is how we are taking it, one day at a time. Keep up the prayers for us. We continue to need them.
The next thing is I know I am suppose to be giving sugar up but I had a good reason to go off the wagon today. It was cake and ice cream for Joshua's 4th birthday. He was all excited today as we celebrated his birthday. Oh to have the energy of this 4 year old. And to watch McKenna standing up on her own. Stacy and Steve say she has been doing it every now and then lately, but tonight, she kept doing it as she was the center of attention for some time. She is a real cutie.
Now our goal is to get back on track after this weekend. I worked at the church this morning patching some pot holes and cutting some grass. The grass cutting hurt, so I will not be doing that anymore. The vibration and the bouncing did me in. (Don't tell Patti but I also ate the first donut I have had in probably a year today also. I'm holding everyone who reads this not to tell her or I will be exercising twice as much this week.)
I want to thank those who keep sending me and Patti notes and letters of encouragement. Times are still sometimes trying, but we are weathering them with the love and support we get from our friends, family, each other and God. I thank him every day for giving me one more day. And that is how we are taking it, one day at a time. Keep up the prayers for us. We continue to need them.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Just hanging in there
This past 10 days have been life changing again. Thinking about Dale and Connie Bolger and their death in a fire two Fridays ago brought a lot of us from FBC back to the reality of death coming quickly. I know my grandsons will miss Dale, the candy man. I know I will miss them. We had lots of fun with them on the Canadian couples retreat. That is where Patti and I really got to know both of them.
Saturday, Steve and I were working at the property on Schady when I heard a muffled boom over the noise of the chipper. I looked up to see black smoke pouring from across the street in the Calaway Bay community. I yelled to Steve to look and he just yelled back for me to watch the boys and off he ran. Josh started crying and said "I don't want my daddy dying like the candyman." I assured him that daddy would be OK and we headed over towards the fire, me, Tyler and Josh. When we got there Steve was just coming around the side of the condo that wasn't on fire. Him and a neighbor had banged on the units that were on fire and the ones on either side. The neighbor, who is a fireman kicked in the door of the unit and then went in and they made sure no one was inside. Four fire departments showed up as three housing units were involved. Luckily no on was hurt. The fire department was on site for more than three hours.
Well we went back to work. All the chipping and cutting of branches cost me physically in the long run. My hands and right arm swelled up from the vibration from the chipper and using the ax. I paid for it all night and all day Sunday. Ron, Caleb and Micah joined us later in the day. We ended up getting pizza and finished out the day there at the property. The boys want to have a campout over there so we will do that in the next few weeks. We have the travel trailer over there so it makes is a lot more comfortable than just sleeping in tents on the ground. Don't know if I could do that anymore.
With the events of the past ten plus days, it has made me even for thankful every morning for the new day that God has given me.
Saturday, Steve and I were working at the property on Schady when I heard a muffled boom over the noise of the chipper. I looked up to see black smoke pouring from across the street in the Calaway Bay community. I yelled to Steve to look and he just yelled back for me to watch the boys and off he ran. Josh started crying and said "I don't want my daddy dying like the candyman." I assured him that daddy would be OK and we headed over towards the fire, me, Tyler and Josh. When we got there Steve was just coming around the side of the condo that wasn't on fire. Him and a neighbor had banged on the units that were on fire and the ones on either side. The neighbor, who is a fireman kicked in the door of the unit and then went in and they made sure no one was inside. Four fire departments showed up as three housing units were involved. Luckily no on was hurt. The fire department was on site for more than three hours.
Well we went back to work. All the chipping and cutting of branches cost me physically in the long run. My hands and right arm swelled up from the vibration from the chipper and using the ax. I paid for it all night and all day Sunday. Ron, Caleb and Micah joined us later in the day. We ended up getting pizza and finished out the day there at the property. The boys want to have a campout over there so we will do that in the next few weeks. We have the travel trailer over there so it makes is a lot more comfortable than just sleeping in tents on the ground. Don't know if I could do that anymore.
With the events of the past ten plus days, it has made me even for thankful every morning for the new day that God has given me.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
It's really been awhile since I last wrote
And I have no excuse other than I have been extremely busy at home, work and everything else. Patti and I have traveled for business to quite a few places. Thankfully she goes with me as I really have a rough time driving like I use to. She has done a lot of the driving as my arm gets pretty tired and sore after a few hours. This week we drove over 500 miles on Monday to visit a site. Last week we visited other sites and put over 1200 miles just going to jobs. I am really just glad that I can keep up my end of the work. Patti pretty much spends her day taking care of me with food, clothing and traveling.
I have had a few job pre-bids for housing authorities and it has really made me appreciate my grandparents and parents paying the price to move our families to the suburbs and putting a sense of responsibility and self worth into us. Some may be offended by this, but these visits truly showed me some of the lowest common denominator's of the human race. Calling some of them lazy would be giving it justice. They get government subsidized housing and they destroy it. I visited sites where they are having us put in new closet doors while leaving the holes in the walls alone because those repairs are not in the stimulus. One unit you could see from the living room, thru the kitchen and into the bathroom. All thru punched out or kicked out walls. It was disgusting. I saw pizza boxes and fast food wrappers, beer and pop bottles stacked up in the kitchens and dining room tables with large flat screen TVs in living rooms and bedrooms. Some there need the housing, others don't. It made me thankful for the generations before me and the opportunities and morals they gave me.
Physically I am doing OK. I notice that I am still having the pain in my arm and right side as it was over a year ago. I guess that is what I have to live with. It is just not going away. It has been rough not being able to jump in and do a lot of things that I would have done before. I have a hard time with that around the church. I sometimes hope that people know the reason when I step back from carrying tables or lifting chairs. The meal for Pastor Quick was really bothersome to me when I could not lift the pans of food. Then it was just as bad when we have the sunrise service with breakfast. I did what I could. Just being a supervisor has never been my style, but I guess it is what I have been destined to do.
On a family note to close this out, I have had my youngest grandson, Joshua (Steve and Stacy's) see me last Saturday morning without my shirt on as all the boys stayed over Friday night. He looked at my back and said, "grandpa, where did you get all those boo boo's. They must hurt." I said look at this one, and showed him under my arm. His eyes got real wide and said "grandpa, that must have really hurt bad." I told him that they did hurt, but grandpa was alive because they cut the cancer out of me. That made me remember what he had said about 3 weeks before while I was bringing him over to my house. He told me "grandpa, I am really going to be sad when you die and I will cry for a long time." I told him grandpa was not going to die for a long time but that all of us are going to die. The difference is when people die knowing Jesus that they go to heaven and are happy. He smiled and said OK. It made me tear up, but it was a blessing. (They reason he talked about me dying was because his great grandpa in Michigan was sick and his mom was going to see him)
Well that is it for now. I need to go to bed. I will write more sooner than later, I promise. Oh yeah, pray for my mom, she now has the shingles. Hopefully I was not the one who brought it on for her. Love you mom, but we do not have to share everything you know.
I have had a few job pre-bids for housing authorities and it has really made me appreciate my grandparents and parents paying the price to move our families to the suburbs and putting a sense of responsibility and self worth into us. Some may be offended by this, but these visits truly showed me some of the lowest common denominator's of the human race. Calling some of them lazy would be giving it justice. They get government subsidized housing and they destroy it. I visited sites where they are having us put in new closet doors while leaving the holes in the walls alone because those repairs are not in the stimulus. One unit you could see from the living room, thru the kitchen and into the bathroom. All thru punched out or kicked out walls. It was disgusting. I saw pizza boxes and fast food wrappers, beer and pop bottles stacked up in the kitchens and dining room tables with large flat screen TVs in living rooms and bedrooms. Some there need the housing, others don't. It made me thankful for the generations before me and the opportunities and morals they gave me.
Physically I am doing OK. I notice that I am still having the pain in my arm and right side as it was over a year ago. I guess that is what I have to live with. It is just not going away. It has been rough not being able to jump in and do a lot of things that I would have done before. I have a hard time with that around the church. I sometimes hope that people know the reason when I step back from carrying tables or lifting chairs. The meal for Pastor Quick was really bothersome to me when I could not lift the pans of food. Then it was just as bad when we have the sunrise service with breakfast. I did what I could. Just being a supervisor has never been my style, but I guess it is what I have been destined to do.
On a family note to close this out, I have had my youngest grandson, Joshua (Steve and Stacy's) see me last Saturday morning without my shirt on as all the boys stayed over Friday night. He looked at my back and said, "grandpa, where did you get all those boo boo's. They must hurt." I said look at this one, and showed him under my arm. His eyes got real wide and said "grandpa, that must have really hurt bad." I told him that they did hurt, but grandpa was alive because they cut the cancer out of me. That made me remember what he had said about 3 weeks before while I was bringing him over to my house. He told me "grandpa, I am really going to be sad when you die and I will cry for a long time." I told him grandpa was not going to die for a long time but that all of us are going to die. The difference is when people die knowing Jesus that they go to heaven and are happy. He smiled and said OK. It made me tear up, but it was a blessing. (They reason he talked about me dying was because his great grandpa in Michigan was sick and his mom was going to see him)
Well that is it for now. I need to go to bed. I will write more sooner than later, I promise. Oh yeah, pray for my mom, she now has the shingles. Hopefully I was not the one who brought it on for her. Love you mom, but we do not have to share everything you know.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Been Busy
I have not written on the blog for a few weeks because Patti and I have been busy traveling for the business and just living our lives. Many things have happened and we have gone (and are still going) to places for work. We have been to the east side of Chicago to visit job sites and for me to take my licensing test there. We have been to Detroit, Columbus, Akron, Canton, and other places. I was also elected deacon again at our church. Several people asked if I really wanted it considering I have had cancer. My answer is "you got to die from something." I know it will be a challenge with the economy and such. It is the same everywhere so I will apply to the church the same fiscal responsibility I will apply to my business and my personal life. We have put off building our new house and buying some things we had planned on. We have also figured to have Patti's mom come live with us as she needs the help. My sister is moving in with my mom so that worry has been taken away from us. My mothers friend George Carey died last Wednesday from his cancer. I believe the doctors hurried his demise by the over use of CAT scans, radiation and chemotherapy that they even admitted was doing nothing to stop the cancer. In the two plus years that he has had cancer, the only time he seemed to respond and actually enjoy life was when he was doing some of the alternative medicine. I will miss arguing politics, religion and life with George. He was a character.
Patti and I will be traveling again to Pennsylvania, Virginia and South Carolina to look at jobs we are bidding. Next week I have two doctors appointments, dermatologist and oncologist. I will also schedule an alternative treatment sometime next week now that my shingles seems to be going away.
If you want to pray for me, pray about the pain that I am (and have been) experiencing in my cancer area. They told me I would have pain there and swelling the rest of my life. Right now I have to learn to sleep differently so that I drain the area rather than add to it. This causes fluid build up as I have no lymph nodes in the area so fluid builds up. My ribs are sensitive all the time in the radiation area and just the nerves coming and going. I will learn to live with it but your prayers would be appreciated.
Patti and I will be traveling again to Pennsylvania, Virginia and South Carolina to look at jobs we are bidding. Next week I have two doctors appointments, dermatologist and oncologist. I will also schedule an alternative treatment sometime next week now that my shingles seems to be going away.
If you want to pray for me, pray about the pain that I am (and have been) experiencing in my cancer area. They told me I would have pain there and swelling the rest of my life. Right now I have to learn to sleep differently so that I drain the area rather than add to it. This causes fluid build up as I have no lymph nodes in the area so fluid builds up. My ribs are sensitive all the time in the radiation area and just the nerves coming and going. I will learn to live with it but your prayers would be appreciated.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
We have been away
Some have asked why I put nothing on the blog the past few weeks. Well, Patti and I left on February 8th and went to Florida for some business we had down there. Steve, Tyler and Joshua flew down there on the 11th and we spent some time visiting a business contact and looking the Tampa area over. Some of our customers have expressed that they would like to have us do work in the state, so we were looking things over. We did have some time to get away and enjoy the beach for a few hours and the aquarium there in Tampa. We took a boat ride out into the bay and watched the dolphins and the sting rays out in the bay. It was part of the aquarium trip. The boys played on the beach at Fort De Soto for a while. They were out in the water some, but it was too cold for the adults. It was quite foggy and it stayed that way all day. Funny thing is that is the day we all got a little sun burnt. We picked up shells and saw some dolphins out about 1/4 mile from shore. (that is all the farther the fog would let us see)
Patti and I drove back this past Monday, the 16th and got home on the 17th. We used our truck camper and had a nice time. It is plenty dirty right now from the trip down and back. We were going to wash it before we left, but figured it would be just as dirty when we got home, and we were correct.
Today is Mckenna's first birthday. We had a party for her at Steve and Stacy's Friday night. It's funny, but a year ago I never ever would have figured to see it. Now I am looking forward to seeing her married and seeing her children. I feel that the cancer was a wake up call from God to take care of myself physically, mentally and spiritually.(and not necessarily in that order) To get things into perspective and deal with those things I can and let the others handle themselves.
I told Patti when we woke up on Wednesday morning that I had had a strange dream that seemed to run all night. Many of the people who have encouraged me were in the dream and they all kept saying the same thing, live. Many of you who have had cancer and have encouraged me were in my dream. It was so realistic. Everyone kept talking about things but you all kept telling me to live. It was like no other dream I have ever had in that it was so peaceful. I woke up rested and relaxed more than I think I ever have before. I guess that tells me the power of those who are willing to take the time to pray and talk with me about the cancer. I can honestly say this is one of the best times of my life as I have learned the true power of prayer and of my God.
Patti and I will be traveling some this week. I have to take tests for licensing in Indiana for jobs we have there with CVS. We will also be working on our setting up a company if Florida. God has blessed us with some jobs early this year and I pray for a continued support from Him with our business.
Thank you for all those who are praying and asking about Patti and me. God bless you.
Patti and I drove back this past Monday, the 16th and got home on the 17th. We used our truck camper and had a nice time. It is plenty dirty right now from the trip down and back. We were going to wash it before we left, but figured it would be just as dirty when we got home, and we were correct.
Today is Mckenna's first birthday. We had a party for her at Steve and Stacy's Friday night. It's funny, but a year ago I never ever would have figured to see it. Now I am looking forward to seeing her married and seeing her children. I feel that the cancer was a wake up call from God to take care of myself physically, mentally and spiritually.(and not necessarily in that order) To get things into perspective and deal with those things I can and let the others handle themselves.
I told Patti when we woke up on Wednesday morning that I had had a strange dream that seemed to run all night. Many of the people who have encouraged me were in the dream and they all kept saying the same thing, live. Many of you who have had cancer and have encouraged me were in my dream. It was so realistic. Everyone kept talking about things but you all kept telling me to live. It was like no other dream I have ever had in that it was so peaceful. I woke up rested and relaxed more than I think I ever have before. I guess that tells me the power of those who are willing to take the time to pray and talk with me about the cancer. I can honestly say this is one of the best times of my life as I have learned the true power of prayer and of my God.
Patti and I will be traveling some this week. I have to take tests for licensing in Indiana for jobs we have there with CVS. We will also be working on our setting up a company if Florida. God has blessed us with some jobs early this year and I pray for a continued support from Him with our business.
Thank you for all those who are praying and asking about Patti and me. God bless you.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Shingles anyone???
Yep, I have shingles. They hurt, they itch and they are no fun. Last night was a doozie. I was up most of the night in pain. Hopefully not tonight. Patti and I are leaving for Florida hopefully Friday or Saturday. We will be there for a week. My doctor thinks I will have shingles for awhile, and he says the sun down there will make me uncomfortable, but I need it for my Vitamin D.
I ask that God gives us safety there and back. Steve T is flying down there with his boys next week so we can go to a meeting together and then maybe to Sea World with the boys. Josh does not want to go on the plane, he wants to go with Grandma and Grandpa in the diesel truck. We will be in the Tampa-Orlando-North Port area for the time we are down there. We will take the computer so we will update everyone as to where we are and what is going on.
I ask that God gives us safety there and back. Steve T is flying down there with his boys next week so we can go to a meeting together and then maybe to Sea World with the boys. Josh does not want to go on the plane, he wants to go with Grandma and Grandpa in the diesel truck. We will be in the Tampa-Orlando-North Port area for the time we are down there. We will take the computer so we will update everyone as to where we are and what is going on.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
This Blog Keeps Changing on Me.
It has been crazy trying to keep up with this blog as it seems every time I open it up it is a different set up. Oh well, I guess that is technology advancement.
I have had a scare the last few days. I had a terrible burning sensation in my stomach and right side that felt like it was in the skin when I pushed one way and deeper when I pushed another way. It started Sunday night and I also had a real deep pain in my lower back. Well, you can imagine all the things that went thru my mind. Turns out, I hope, that I was wearing a new dress shirt that Patti had sent to the cleaners to have starched to get out all of the wrinkles from being embroidered with our company name and logo. Somehow I have become allergic to the starch or their cleaning soap or something. I took off my shirt and undershirt last night after plowing snow all day to find what looked like poison ivy in the areas that were burning and itching all day. Today it was even worse, but mentally I could pass it off. I have never had poison ivy as I am not allergic to it. I think it is a trade off with my bee allergy. Hopefully it will do away soon.
I was able to plow most of my neighbors drives, my sons drive, the office twice, Clarence and Barb's and my own drive (three times). I count it a blessing because last year at this time we were in the middle of the radiation treatments and wondering how long I had and if I would ever see another year. Funny how little things like shoveling and plowing snow can be a blessing. The grandson's helped to riding in the truck and shoveling with me. We got to my house at about 8:30 so we could all have some ice cream. I cannot tell you the wonderful feelings I had just sitting there with the four boys eating an M&M ice cream bar. A year ago I never would have thought something so small could be so precious. I remember thinking not to get so close to my granddaughter because she would never have remember me if I didn't make it. Well now, I have it in my heart, mind and body to be there when she graduates school, get married and makes me a great-grandfather. (not that I want to rush things) (oh yeah, the boys already think I am a great-grandfather and that is more than enough reason to stay around) Thank you God for a second chance.
I have had a scare the last few days. I had a terrible burning sensation in my stomach and right side that felt like it was in the skin when I pushed one way and deeper when I pushed another way. It started Sunday night and I also had a real deep pain in my lower back. Well, you can imagine all the things that went thru my mind. Turns out, I hope, that I was wearing a new dress shirt that Patti had sent to the cleaners to have starched to get out all of the wrinkles from being embroidered with our company name and logo. Somehow I have become allergic to the starch or their cleaning soap or something. I took off my shirt and undershirt last night after plowing snow all day to find what looked like poison ivy in the areas that were burning and itching all day. Today it was even worse, but mentally I could pass it off. I have never had poison ivy as I am not allergic to it. I think it is a trade off with my bee allergy. Hopefully it will do away soon.
I was able to plow most of my neighbors drives, my sons drive, the office twice, Clarence and Barb's and my own drive (three times). I count it a blessing because last year at this time we were in the middle of the radiation treatments and wondering how long I had and if I would ever see another year. Funny how little things like shoveling and plowing snow can be a blessing. The grandson's helped to riding in the truck and shoveling with me. We got to my house at about 8:30 so we could all have some ice cream. I cannot tell you the wonderful feelings I had just sitting there with the four boys eating an M&M ice cream bar. A year ago I never would have thought something so small could be so precious. I remember thinking not to get so close to my granddaughter because she would never have remember me if I didn't make it. Well now, I have it in my heart, mind and body to be there when she graduates school, get married and makes me a great-grandfather. (not that I want to rush things) (oh yeah, the boys already think I am a great-grandfather and that is more than enough reason to stay around) Thank you God for a second chance.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Less than diligent
I have been less than diligent in my updating of this blog. I am working and getting on with my life "living with cancer but not dying from cancer" that I forget about the blog for awhile, then something happens to spark me back to the blog. My mother in law had eye surgery yesterday and seeing her last night with Patti taking care of her brought back a lot of memories. Actually a flood of emotions as to what it was like a year ago on the radiation. I vow never again to receive treatments that are worse than the disease. Now that is not saying I will not have surgeries, but radiation and chemo of any sort are out of the question for me. I add the "for me" because you are not me and I am not you. I just know what I will do or not do.
I would ask that if you are reading this, pray for me as I seem to have aches and pains that spark my "what if" mode and then I go back to living my life. I guess aches and pains are part of everyday life, but when you have had cancer, it puts a whole different light on them. Sometimes I will admit, it scares me. Then I remember I put it into God's hands, and it eases my mind. Now granted, sometimes that happens many times in a day, but I do believe it always is there to bring me around to prayer.
Well, stay warm out there. The computer says it is -13 degrees. Leaving now for work (yes I have to work, but I like work) and Patti has left to help her mom and get her to the eye doctor to check her eye. I hope and pray everything is alright. Her mom took off the bandages and protective covering last night and washed her eye. Not a very smart thing to do. Pray for her.
I would ask that if you are reading this, pray for me as I seem to have aches and pains that spark my "what if" mode and then I go back to living my life. I guess aches and pains are part of everyday life, but when you have had cancer, it puts a whole different light on them. Sometimes I will admit, it scares me. Then I remember I put it into God's hands, and it eases my mind. Now granted, sometimes that happens many times in a day, but I do believe it always is there to bring me around to prayer.
Well, stay warm out there. The computer says it is -13 degrees. Leaving now for work (yes I have to work, but I like work) and Patti has left to help her mom and get her to the eye doctor to check her eye. I hope and pray everything is alright. Her mom took off the bandages and protective covering last night and washed her eye. Not a very smart thing to do. Pray for her.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
2009
As the new year starts, I think back on 2008 and the many blessings, opportunities and trials that I as well as my family were a part of. Blessings came in the form of a new granddaughter, grandsons growing and staying strong, kids now taking on more as grown adults, and health for Patti and me.
The year started out rough with January 2nd being doctors getting ready for skin surgeries and six weeks of radiation. Then more operations and then the interferon. It started still being sore and limited on movement from the previous surgeries. It still is sore today, more than a year later but improving. Sometimes I wish, like this morning, that I would remember to get out of bed in a different way that didn't start my day off with such pain. I could roll the other way, but then the pain would be from the fall to the floor. I know that the mornings start off with pain but it subsides as I do things physical. They probably wonder at work why I work in the warehouse whenever I can. The physical activity actually decreases the pain. The other thing that hope to remember this year is how to get dressed and undressed. Pull over shirts and taking off regular shirts or jackets if not done right causes all sorts of pain. Now saying all that, I notice that more of the area has been getting feeling back. It was strangely wonderful this morning when I actually had an itch on the top of my shoulder. Even the pats on the back and the grabbing of my arm are giving me less pain. Not sure if it will ever all go away, but it has improved.
This year my resolution is to make sure that the little things as well as the big things are important and worth my time. But even more important, I will stop to enjoy the small things more. Those things I have little or no control over will not occupy my time.
This blog in 2008 helped me tell people what was going on and how I felt with my cancer. Well, I will continue to use it in 2009 to tell people what I am doing and how I am feeling "living with cancer, not dying from cancer." I may have cancer occur again or some other health problem possibly, but I have resolved never to let it rob me of my life. There is so much more to life and only God will end my days here.
Have a great New Year and enjoy every day of 2009.
The year started out rough with January 2nd being doctors getting ready for skin surgeries and six weeks of radiation. Then more operations and then the interferon. It started still being sore and limited on movement from the previous surgeries. It still is sore today, more than a year later but improving. Sometimes I wish, like this morning, that I would remember to get out of bed in a different way that didn't start my day off with such pain. I could roll the other way, but then the pain would be from the fall to the floor. I know that the mornings start off with pain but it subsides as I do things physical. They probably wonder at work why I work in the warehouse whenever I can. The physical activity actually decreases the pain. The other thing that hope to remember this year is how to get dressed and undressed. Pull over shirts and taking off regular shirts or jackets if not done right causes all sorts of pain. Now saying all that, I notice that more of the area has been getting feeling back. It was strangely wonderful this morning when I actually had an itch on the top of my shoulder. Even the pats on the back and the grabbing of my arm are giving me less pain. Not sure if it will ever all go away, but it has improved.
This year my resolution is to make sure that the little things as well as the big things are important and worth my time. But even more important, I will stop to enjoy the small things more. Those things I have little or no control over will not occupy my time.
This blog in 2008 helped me tell people what was going on and how I felt with my cancer. Well, I will continue to use it in 2009 to tell people what I am doing and how I am feeling "living with cancer, not dying from cancer." I may have cancer occur again or some other health problem possibly, but I have resolved never to let it rob me of my life. There is so much more to life and only God will end my days here.
Have a great New Year and enjoy every day of 2009.
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