Jennifer, look what I found! I should get your Uncle Joe one to go with his mug!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Another Chemo treatment
Tomorrow (4/30/09) is my second Chemo treatment. Actually, I take a Chemo tablet every day, but tomorrow is the second infusion. The treatment itself is not bad, I just sit there in a comfortable recliner with an IV dripping the drugs into my vein. The side effects are what worry me. Last time it was a terrible headache and nausea. They give me anti-nausea drugs in the IV, but I also have some others prescribed by my Texas doctor. We also have some experience on how to deal with the side effects, so hopefully it will be smoother sailing than last time. I still may not feel like blogging or emailing for a few days, but I shall return.
Joe
Joe
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Pictures from our weekend
Ben was home to visit for the weekend and helped us with a few projects. We were able to get quite a bit accomplished. Ben is a great motivator and a wonderful son! We missed not having SallyAnn here, but she had a commitment to cantor at church on Sunday in Kansas City.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Mug Says it All
On Saturday, this mug arrived in the mail. It was a surprise gift from an old friend that I haven't seen in years. He always did "say it like it is." Thanks Steve!My sentiments exactly!
JOE
We are glad you are here. Leave us a note!
Thank you for visiting our blog...
it has been heart warming to see
how many of you have been
“Keeping up with the Gray’s!”
We invite you to contribute
to our blog by leaving your
comments here. We would
enjoy hearing from you and
it would be a great source of
“good medicine” for us. We
would love to hear how you
are doing too!
Love to All,
Vicki, Joe, Benjamin & SallyAnn
Friday, April 24, 2009
"First" Haircut
Well.... not his VERY first haircut, but his first since being diagnosed. He was looking a bit scruffy! Our doctor told us that Joe may not lose his hair from chemo... that's a plus! But if he does, he'll be the first male Gray in his family to be bald... those Gray guys grow quite a head of hair!
A little story about Joe's barber... after moving here,
Joe was on the search for a good barber. He decided
to try a little shop not far from home. During the first
visit, Joe and the barber found they had several things
in common, including relatives around Burlington. It
turned out that the barber is married to Vicki's cousin!
So, Joe ended up with not just a barber, but a new
friend and cousin. Good to know you Kirk!
A Wonderful Day!
This has been a Wonderful day!
Joe went with me to run a few
errands, then we spent some
time with Willow in the yard.
A little refresher... there's nothing like
sharing a cherry Popsicle on a warm,
spring day!
Joe went with me to run a few
errands, then we spent some
time with Willow in the yard.
A little refresher... there's nothing like
sharing a cherry Popsicle on a warm,
spring day!
A Good Day!
Yesterday was a beautiful day and Joe felt like getting outside. He took Willow to get the mail, they walked around the yard, and spent some time watching me mow the lawn. He fixed a leaky hose connection... you know, the ones that spray everywhere and get you all wet when you turn the water on? And, he spent a little time in the shed.... probably thinking of a project to work on when he's feeling better. That's a GOOD day! Vicki
Faith
I had been thinking of getting myself a cross necklace. I wanted a visible sign of my Faith. I hadn't had the chance to look around for one, and hadn't mentioned to anyone what I was wanting. Then one day, out of the blue, Vicki came home with this one. I love it!
Joe
Monday, April 20, 2009
The Patron Saint of Cancer
Novena To St. Peregrine
Glorious wonder-worker, St. Peregrine, you answered the divine call with a ready spirit, and forsook all the comforts of a life of ease and all the empty honors of the world to dedicate yourself to God in the Order of His holy Mother.
Glorious wonder-worker, St. Peregrine, you answered the divine call with a ready spirit, and forsook all the comforts of a life of ease and all the empty honors of the world to dedicate yourself to God in the Order of His holy Mother. You labored manfully for the salvation of souls. In union with Jesus crucified, you endured painful sufferings with such patience as to deserve to be healed miraculously of an incurable cancer in your leg by a touch of His divine hand.
Obtain for me the grace to answer every call of God and to fulfill His will in all the events of life. Enkindle in my heart a consuming zeal for the salvation of all men. Deliver me from the infirmities that afflict my body (especially.....).
Obtain for me also a perfect resignation to the sufferings it may please God to send me, so that, imitating our crucified Savior and His sorrowful Mother, I may merit eternal glory in heaven.
St. Peregrine, pray for me and for all who invoke your aid.
Prayer to Saint Peregrine
O great St. Peregrine, you have been called "The Mighty," "The Wonder-Worker," because of the numerous miracles which you have obtained from God for those who have had recourse to you.
For so many years you bore in your own flesh this cancerous disease that destroys the very fibre of our being, and who had recourse to the source of all grace when the power of man could do no more. You were favoured with the vision of Jesus coming down from His Cross to heal your affliction. Ask of God and Our Lady, the cure of the sick whom we entrust to you.
Obtain for me the grace to answer every call of God and to fulfill His will in all the events of life. Enkindle in my heart a consuming zeal for the salvation of all men. Deliver me from the infirmities that afflict my body (especially.....).
Obtain for me also a perfect resignation to the sufferings it may please God to send me, so that, imitating our crucified Savior and His sorrowful Mother, I may merit eternal glory in heaven.
St. Peregrine, pray for me and for all who invoke your aid.
Prayer to Saint Peregrine
O great St. Peregrine, you have been called "The Mighty," "The Wonder-Worker," because of the numerous miracles which you have obtained from God for those who have had recourse to you.
For so many years you bore in your own flesh this cancerous disease that destroys the very fibre of our being, and who had recourse to the source of all grace when the power of man could do no more. You were favoured with the vision of Jesus coming down from His Cross to heal your affliction. Ask of God and Our Lady, the cure of the sick whom we entrust to you.
(Pause here and silently recall the names of the sick for whom you are praying)
Aided in this way by your powerful intercession, we shall sing to God, now and for all eternity, a song of gratitude for His great goodness and mercy.
Amen.
About St. Peregrine
St. Peregrine was born in 1260 at Forlì, Italy to an affluent family. He lived a comfortable life as a youth, and politically opposed the papacy. After he experienced the forgiveness of St. Philip Benizi, he changed his life and joined the Servite order. He was ordained a priest, and later returned to his home to establish a Servite community. There he was widely known for his preaching, penances, and counsel in the confessional. He was cured of cancer, after he received a vision of Christ on the cross reaching out His hand to touch his impaired limb. He died in 1345 and was canonized in 1726. He is the patron of cancer patients.
Amen.
About St. Peregrine
St. Peregrine was born in 1260 at Forlì, Italy to an affluent family. He lived a comfortable life as a youth, and politically opposed the papacy. After he experienced the forgiveness of St. Philip Benizi, he changed his life and joined the Servite order. He was ordained a priest, and later returned to his home to establish a Servite community. There he was widely known for his preaching, penances, and counsel in the confessional. He was cured of cancer, after he received a vision of Christ on the cross reaching out His hand to touch his impaired limb. He died in 1345 and was canonized in 1726. He is the patron of cancer patients.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Faith
Matthew 8:5-13
The Faith of the Centurion
When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. "Lord," he said, "my servant lies at home paralyzed and in terrible suffering."Jesus said to him, "I will go and heal him."
The centurion replied, "Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."
When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, "I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go! It will be done just as you believed it would."
And his servant was healed at that very hour.
Thank You Marcus
V & J
Incredible Friends
Ben & SallyAnn~ The replies from your friends just about blew me away. You obviously have an incredible group of friends. I have received similar reactions from my friends, many of which are old "Diddiots" I haven't seen in years. It's just an indescribable feeling.
Thank you both for your love and support.
Dad
Thank you both for your love and support.
Dad
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Long post, much love.
The following are just some of the replies I got from friends regarding Joe's (Dad's) news of pancreatic cancer. This amazing response reminds us all of the love and support that is out there lifting us up...
Aw, man! I'm so sorry! I will keep you and your family in our prayers. If there is anything [D.] or I could do for you, just let us know, we are here for ya. Hang in there! [M.]
Thank you for sharing this with me. I will certainly be lifting your Dad and your entire family up in prayer. Sounds like you have an awesome Dad. Go State! Take care, [A.]
Awh crap! I'm sorry to hear that, Ben. I hate cancer. It's the worse thing ever. I know so many people that have had to fight it ... I know it's not going to be an easy road for your dad or you. If I can help with anything, just ask (even if it is just watching your dog, that's cool with me). [C.]
[R.] and I were so sorry to hear about your dad. You can count on us for tons of prayer. God is mighty to save. We'll be praying that His best will be done in and around this entire situation. While sad to hear, your email was very heart-warming and even hilarious at times. As you know, I think all of us that lived with you in college and got to know Joe a little have always loved him. He's such a great guy! And it's awesome that he has you guys supporting him in this. Thanks so much for letting us know. And if there's ever anything you guys need, then please don't hesitate to let us know as well. I hope you have a great day! [B.]
I am really sorry to hear about your dad. If there is anything you or your family needs let me know. We will for sure be praying for you guys. If you want to ever get together for dinner or drinks let me know. [C.]
This is devastating news. I am truly sorry to hear about it. Please know how much love and respect my family and I have for you and yours. In times like these, it can be helpful to look toward others who have walked this path before you. There is no greater example of strength and fight in the face of pancreatic cancer than the one and only Patrick Swayze. If the guy who starred in such beloved films as "Black Dog" and "Roadhouse" can fight his way through this disease, then I'm certain Joe can as well. Hell, a year into treatment, Mr. Swayze just wrapped filming on a movie. That's what I call living life full time. I'm sure your dad's doctors are doing everything they can for him. [S.] suggested you guys look into any clinical trials for any new pancreatic cancer drugs, if the doc hasn't already suggested it. A list of them can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/d9yatj. She's just a communications flack for a pharmaceutical company, but these treatments are, in her words, "often the most aggressive, promising treatments." Her mother made a full recovery from breast cancer a few years ago in part through a trial like this. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do. All the best, [N.]
That is a bummer, but your attitude is right on and there's no doubt Joe will be fine. Thank you for letting me know so I pass on some positive thinking and prayer from Chicago. Hang in there, friend- [N.]
I know you ask for no pity, but as any such news is going to cause sadness, that's the emotion I feel now writing this. With a roaring applause though, I commend the positive approach you all are taking. I hope to offer any encouragement I can. Let me know how I can support you guys any way...if you want me to bring over a pot roast with a few homebrews, I'm on it. If you want someone to blow a wod of cash at craps table, i'm that dude. If ya just need someone to call, you know my number. I remember from running into you guys (and your dad) once at a KSU football game and ofcourse seeing him again at your wedding. He has a great personality and the demeanor to definitely take charge and fight this head on. You and your fam are in my prayers....Rock on! [R.]
Sorry to hear that your father is sick and of course I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers!!!!! [A.]
I am sorry to hear this information. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with your family. Let me know if you need anything: drinks, dinner (we could use chopsticks) or just a chat. [K.]
I am sorry to hear about your dad. Hang in there, my family and I will be praying for you. [D.]
I am very sorry to hear about your father. Please know that [A.] and my thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you and your family. I know it's hard to believe, but you are not alone in this fight. All of your friends, [A.] and me included, are here to support you and your family in whatever capacity possible. Cancer has impacted [A.]'s and my family greatly; even as we "speak," both my dad and [A.]'s aunt are waging very courageous battles against the disease. We're here for you no matter what you need! Sincerely, [J. & A.]
I hope you had a good Easter, and that all is going well. My dad is doing pretty well, all things considered. Thanks for asking. He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2004. He has been through several rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries, and while it's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride, by the grace of God, treatment has been effective. You've got our thoughts and prayer, but please let us know if you need anything. [J.]
We are keeping your Dad in our prayers! We pray that the treatment does its job and that the side effects aren't too severe!! We hope you all have a blessed Easter! [N.]
D1 knows a guy who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer around June, 2008. He had chemo for a while after he was diagnosed. Then, around November, he had surgery at John Hopkins. Apparently, as my dad was describing, he is doing well. This guy was living in China before he was diagnosed. After his surgery, around January of this year, he moved back to China with his wife. My dad said he would be happy to get more specific info on this guy's doctor, and get it to Joe. He was telling me about it tonight when he got home from work. Keep me posted. If you guys are gone and need any help with your house, pets, etc....I'm all over it. hugs and kisses. [R.]
Aw, man! I'm so sorry! I will keep you and your family in our prayers. If there is anything [D.] or I could do for you, just let us know, we are here for ya. Hang in there! [M.]
Thank you for sharing this with me. I will certainly be lifting your Dad and your entire family up in prayer. Sounds like you have an awesome Dad. Go State! Take care, [A.]
Awh crap! I'm sorry to hear that, Ben. I hate cancer. It's the worse thing ever. I know so many people that have had to fight it ... I know it's not going to be an easy road for your dad or you. If I can help with anything, just ask (even if it is just watching your dog, that's cool with me). [C.]
[R.] and I were so sorry to hear about your dad. You can count on us for tons of prayer. God is mighty to save. We'll be praying that His best will be done in and around this entire situation. While sad to hear, your email was very heart-warming and even hilarious at times. As you know, I think all of us that lived with you in college and got to know Joe a little have always loved him. He's such a great guy! And it's awesome that he has you guys supporting him in this. Thanks so much for letting us know. And if there's ever anything you guys need, then please don't hesitate to let us know as well. I hope you have a great day! [B.]
I am really sorry to hear about your dad. If there is anything you or your family needs let me know. We will for sure be praying for you guys. If you want to ever get together for dinner or drinks let me know. [C.]
This is devastating news. I am truly sorry to hear about it. Please know how much love and respect my family and I have for you and yours. In times like these, it can be helpful to look toward others who have walked this path before you. There is no greater example of strength and fight in the face of pancreatic cancer than the one and only Patrick Swayze. If the guy who starred in such beloved films as "Black Dog" and "Roadhouse" can fight his way through this disease, then I'm certain Joe can as well. Hell, a year into treatment, Mr. Swayze just wrapped filming on a movie. That's what I call living life full time. I'm sure your dad's doctors are doing everything they can for him. [S.] suggested you guys look into any clinical trials for any new pancreatic cancer drugs, if the doc hasn't already suggested it. A list of them can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/d9yatj. She's just a communications flack for a pharmaceutical company, but these treatments are, in her words, "often the most aggressive, promising treatments." Her mother made a full recovery from breast cancer a few years ago in part through a trial like this. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do. All the best, [N.]
That is a bummer, but your attitude is right on and there's no doubt Joe will be fine. Thank you for letting me know so I pass on some positive thinking and prayer from Chicago. Hang in there, friend- [N.]
I know you ask for no pity, but as any such news is going to cause sadness, that's the emotion I feel now writing this. With a roaring applause though, I commend the positive approach you all are taking. I hope to offer any encouragement I can. Let me know how I can support you guys any way...if you want me to bring over a pot roast with a few homebrews, I'm on it. If you want someone to blow a wod of cash at craps table, i'm that dude. If ya just need someone to call, you know my number. I remember from running into you guys (and your dad) once at a KSU football game and ofcourse seeing him again at your wedding. He has a great personality and the demeanor to definitely take charge and fight this head on. You and your fam are in my prayers....Rock on! [R.]
Sorry to hear that your father is sick and of course I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers!!!!! [A.]
I am sorry to hear this information. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with your family. Let me know if you need anything: drinks, dinner (we could use chopsticks) or just a chat. [K.]
I am sorry to hear about your dad. Hang in there, my family and I will be praying for you. [D.]
I am very sorry to hear about your father. Please know that [A.] and my thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you and your family. I know it's hard to believe, but you are not alone in this fight. All of your friends, [A.] and me included, are here to support you and your family in whatever capacity possible. Cancer has impacted [A.]'s and my family greatly; even as we "speak," both my dad and [A.]'s aunt are waging very courageous battles against the disease. We're here for you no matter what you need! Sincerely, [J. & A.]
I hope you had a good Easter, and that all is going well. My dad is doing pretty well, all things considered. Thanks for asking. He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2004. He has been through several rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries, and while it's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride, by the grace of God, treatment has been effective. You've got our thoughts and prayer, but please let us know if you need anything. [J.]
We are keeping your Dad in our prayers! We pray that the treatment does its job and that the side effects aren't too severe!! We hope you all have a blessed Easter! [N.]
D1 knows a guy who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer around June, 2008. He had chemo for a while after he was diagnosed. Then, around November, he had surgery at John Hopkins. Apparently, as my dad was describing, he is doing well. This guy was living in China before he was diagnosed. After his surgery, around January of this year, he moved back to China with his wife. My dad said he would be happy to get more specific info on this guy's doctor, and get it to Joe. He was telling me about it tonight when he got home from work. Keep me posted. If you guys are gone and need any help with your house, pets, etc....I'm all over it. hugs and kisses. [R.]
The first chemo treatment
The first chemo treatment is done! Joe and Vicki arrived at the Oncology Department of the Tatman Treatment Center in Coffeyville (KS) around 10:00am on Thursday, April 16th. The chemo treatments are administered in one big room with lots of comfy recliners. There were already five or six patients there getting their chemo. Joe was seated in a recli
ner, his blood pressure was taken, he signed some papers and an I.V. was placed. (Small world alert: their nurse lives close to Joe and Vicki and recognized them from their walks!) Joe got started on some intravenous fluids to keep him hydrated, then nausea medication and finally the chemo "cocktail." He chatted with Vicki a bit, but mostly rested. The nurse brought him soup and crackers for lunch. They were done and out of the hospital by 1:30.
When they first got to Oncology in the Tatman Cancer Center, Vicki’s cousin Deb (who works in that area) stopped to see them. It was nice to see a familiar face, get a hug and a cup of coffee. The gentleman in the recliner next to Joe was very friendly and spoke to them right away. Mr. Ford was experienced in getting treatments and was relaxed. He had a good sense of humor, especially considering the circumstances. Mr. Ford's lymphoma is in remission and he was getting a "chemo boost." He enjoys flying kites...the fancy ones that use dual strings and can "cut didos" (tricks). How cool! When Joe and Vicki were ready to leave, they exchanged best wishes with Mr. Ford.
Joe had a bad headache after they got home, which is a common side effect of the chemo. He fell asleep in his trusty recliner and was feeling better after some rest. By the next day (Friday, April 17th), Joe was feeling much better! He was still pretty tired and a little nauseous, but that's to be expected. While he may not feel ready to run a marathon, he hasn't had the bad back, belly or headaches and he slept through the night without any pain pills, so that's fantastic!
Overall, it was quite a new experience, but we see it as the beginning of a successful journey!
ner, his blood pressure was taken, he signed some papers and an I.V. was placed. (Small world alert: their nurse lives close to Joe and Vicki and recognized them from their walks!) Joe got started on some intravenous fluids to keep him hydrated, then nausea medication and finally the chemo "cocktail." He chatted with Vicki a bit, but mostly rested. The nurse brought him soup and crackers for lunch. They were done and out of the hospital by 1:30.When they first got to Oncology in the Tatman Cancer Center, Vicki’s cousin Deb (who works in that area) stopped to see them. It was nice to see a familiar face, get a hug and a cup of coffee. The gentleman in the recliner next to Joe was very friendly and spoke to them right away. Mr. Ford was experienced in getting treatments and was relaxed. He had a good sense of humor, especially considering the circumstances. Mr. Ford's lymphoma is in remission and he was getting a "chemo boost." He enjoys flying kites...the fancy ones that use dual strings and can "cut didos" (tricks). How cool! When Joe and Vicki were ready to leave, they exchanged best wishes with Mr. Ford.
Joe had a bad headache after they got home, which is a common side effect of the chemo. He fell asleep in his trusty recliner and was feeling better after some rest. By the next day (Friday, April 17th), Joe was feeling much better! He was still pretty tired and a little nauseous, but that's to be expected. While he may not feel ready to run a marathon, he hasn't had the bad back, belly or headaches and he slept through the night without any pain pills, so that's fantastic!
Overall, it was quite a new experience, but we see it as the beginning of a successful journey!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
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Getting the show on the road
Tomorrow, April 16th, will be Joe's first chemotherapy treatment. His appointment is at 10:00 am in Coffeyville, Kansas. It's still unclear how frequently his treatments will occur and the duration. I will update you when this is decided.
Joe received a surprise from his John Deere coworkers yesterday - a Kindle 2! (The Kindle is a wireless, electronic, reading device. It's like the library and the internet had a baby!) What a thoughtful surprise!! This will be a great
way to keep occupied while receiving his chemo treatments. To help get Joe started, Ben (his amazing son!) gifted him with an Amazon.com gift card to load his new toy with plenty of prose.
Joe received a surprise from his John Deere coworkers yesterday - a Kindle 2! (The Kindle is a wireless, electronic, reading device. It's like the library and the internet had a baby!) What a thoughtful surprise!! This will be a great
way to keep occupied while receiving his chemo treatments. To help get Joe started, Ben (his amazing son!) gifted him with an Amazon.com gift card to load his new toy with plenty of prose.Friday, April 10, 2009
Hello Houston
Joe & Vicki were in Houston, Texas from April 6th to April 10th, spending long days at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. SallyAnn, their daughter-in-law, joined them on April 8th.
Joe met with many doctors, including Dr. James Abbruzzese for tests, diagnosis and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. The tests revealed a large tumor on the head of the pancreas and a spot of cancer on the liver. The tumor in the pancreas is pushing against an artery and vein. The pressure of the tumor is causing pain and discomfort for Joe in his stomach and back. This pain is how the cancer was initially discovered.
The course of treatment chosen by Joe and his doctors is a three-drug cocktail of chemotherapy. The goal of the chemo is to stop the cancer from spreading and reduce the size of the tumor. The first round of chemo will take place in Coffeyville with a follow-up at M.D. Anderson to see how the cancer is responding and to reevaluate the condition and treatment plans. The chemo sessions are expected to begin next week (around April 20th) and will last 8 - 10 weeks. We will keep you updated as appointments are scheduled and treatment begins.
An unexpected bump in the road was a troublesome PowerPort. This port was implanted in Coffeyville, Kansas on April 3rd, just below the skin near Joe's right shoulder in anticipation of chemotherapy treatments. Unfortunately, this port had to be removed at the M.D. Anderson Clinic on April 10th due to clotting. At this time, it is unclear if a pic line (peripherally inserted central catheter) will be installed in his left arm. We have been assured that chemo can be performed without a port or a pic.
Due to the blockage caused by the port, Joe is using blood thinning medication to help blood pass through his right arm and get the area back to normal. The blood thinner will also help with the squeezed artery and vein in his pancreas. Here's the kicker: this medication is administered by needle twice a day. By Vicki to Joe. I am so proud of Vicki for tackling this less-than-fun duty with ease!
Now, let's talk about some good stuff! The trip to Houston was not doom and gloom. We still laughed and managed to have some fun! The people at M.D. Anderson were great, the facility was beautiful, Houston was a nice town and we met some other patients along the way. Check out pictures from our trip here!
On Friday, our last day in Houston, Vicki and SallyAnn went to speak with Joe's nurse with a few questions. While on the 7th floor, we ran into a sweet girl we had met previously. We ha
d chatted with her briefly just the day before about her cool rosary bracelet. When we saw her on Friday, she approached us and gave us each a bracelet with a beautiful angel hanging delicately on it. She had made these bracelets and intended them for us. We were so moved! The chances of even seeing this girl again, after our first meeting, were so small. The hospital is huge and so many people are being treated there everyday. This was definitely a sign from God that angels were with us.
Joe met with many doctors, including Dr. James Abbruzzese for tests, diagnosis and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. The tests revealed a large tumor on the head of the pancreas and a spot of cancer on the liver. The tumor in the pancreas is pushing against an artery and vein. The pressure of the tumor is causing pain and discomfort for Joe in his stomach and back. This pain is how the cancer was initially discovered.
The course of treatment chosen by Joe and his doctors is a three-drug cocktail of chemotherapy. The goal of the chemo is to stop the cancer from spreading and reduce the size of the tumor. The first round of chemo will take place in Coffeyville with a follow-up at M.D. Anderson to see how the cancer is responding and to reevaluate the condition and treatment plans. The chemo sessions are expected to begin next week (around April 20th) and will last 8 - 10 weeks. We will keep you updated as appointments are scheduled and treatment begins.
An unexpected bump in the road was a troublesome PowerPort. This port was implanted in Coffeyville, Kansas on April 3rd, just below the skin near Joe's right shoulder in anticipation of chemotherapy treatments. Unfortunately, this port had to be removed at the M.D. Anderson Clinic on April 10th due to clotting. At this time, it is unclear if a pic line (peripherally inserted central catheter) will be installed in his left arm. We have been assured that chemo can be performed without a port or a pic.
Due to the blockage caused by the port, Joe is using blood thinning medication to help blood pass through his right arm and get the area back to normal. The blood thinner will also help with the squeezed artery and vein in his pancreas. Here's the kicker: this medication is administered by needle twice a day. By Vicki to Joe. I am so proud of Vicki for tackling this less-than-fun duty with ease!
Now, let's talk about some good stuff! The trip to Houston was not doom and gloom. We still laughed and managed to have some fun! The people at M.D. Anderson were great, the facility was beautiful, Houston was a nice town and we met some other patients along the way. Check out pictures from our trip here!
On Friday, our last day in Houston, Vicki and SallyAnn went to speak with Joe's nurse with a few questions. While on the 7th floor, we ran into a sweet girl we had met previously. We ha
d chatted with her briefly just the day before about her cool rosary bracelet. When we saw her on Friday, she approached us and gave us each a bracelet with a beautiful angel hanging delicately on it. She had made these bracelets and intended them for us. We were so moved! The chances of even seeing this girl again, after our first meeting, were so small. The hospital is huge and so many people are being treated there everyday. This was definitely a sign from God that angels were with us.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Dr. James Abbruzzese
This is the guy you want in your court! Joe's oncologist at M.D. Anderson is the world renowned Dr. James Abbruzzese, who specializes in pancreatic cancer.
Dr. Abbruzzese is the Chairman of the Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Abbruzzese is one of the world's foremost leaders in the clinical study and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Dr. Abbruzzese research is focused on the development of novel therapeutic agents for pancreatic and other gastrointestinal cancers. He is principal investigator of a phase I drug development grant from the National Cancer Institute and another grant to develop techniques to assess the impact of novel targeted therapeutic agents in cancer patients.
Dr. Abbruzzese has been published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology and is the author of over 150 articles and book chapters and is Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Pancreatology. He serves on the editorial board of a number of prestigious journals, including the Journal of Clinical Oncology and Clinical Cancer Research, and also serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research.
He has also been named a National Thought Leader in the area of pancreatic cancer by BioMedical Insights, Inc. Dr. Abbruzzese is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine and a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.
Dr. Abbruzzese is the Chairman of the Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Abbruzzese is one of the world's foremost leaders in the clinical study and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Dr. Abbruzzese research is focused on the development of novel therapeutic agents for pancreatic and other gastrointestinal cancers. He is principal investigator of a phase I drug development grant from the National Cancer Institute and another grant to develop techniques to assess the impact of novel targeted therapeutic agents in cancer patients.
Dr. Abbruzzese has been published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology and is the author of over 150 articles and book chapters and is Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Pancreatology. He serves on the editorial board of a number of prestigious journals, including the Journal of Clinical Oncology and Clinical Cancer Research, and also serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research.
He has also been named a National Thought Leader in the area of pancreatic cancer by BioMedical Insights, Inc. Dr. Abbruzzese is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine and a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Willkommen. Bienvenue. Welcome. C'mon in.
Thanks for visiting our blog! This is where Joe, Vicki, Ben & Sally will keep you up-to-date on Joe's journey through pancreatic cancer.
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