September 17th- Work-staff meeting. Treatment- came home and then went to YMCA for workout, since they were doing a photo shoot in our dining room. Spencer had soccer game at 5:30- he won 6-0!! Took the boys to Taco Bell, then I went to Family Diner for lasagna- I hadn't eaten anything all day and was starving!!
September 18th- Work. Went to PD because my squad had court today. After roll-call served evaluations on Dell and Rasecke. I ran out of time to do Schenic. Went to treatment. Came home and I ran for the first time since my cancer. I had to walk periodically, it was a lot tougher than I thought it would be- but I RAN!! After dinner, I watched TV with Spencer.
September 19th- Work. Treatment. Went to mom's to try on a jacket she is making for formal. Came home and worked on STRESS lesson for church, checked over some case reports. Fixed dinner. Took Spencer to soccer practice- I worked out at YMCA.
September 20th- Work. Treatment. Ran some errands in Greensboro before I came home. Cleaned entire house. John worked late.
September 21st- Got up. Ate breakfast. Went to give dog a bath, but Maxwell escaped when Spencer left cage unlatched. Joel retrieved Maxwell. Went to Spencer's soccer game- they won 5 to 0. Went to grocery store- did some cooking. John left to go to Charlotte for Southern Retail. Went for a walk. Did some work from the office.
September 22nd- Got up at 7:30 and ran/walked. Put on a roast. Went to SS and church. Had Homecoming and dinner at the church. Took kids to YMCA, I worked out, Spencer swam, and Joel and Jason worked out. Then took Spencer to Toys R Us in Greensboro to look for birthday presents. Came home and worked on evaluation. John got home around 5pm. Went to bed around 9:45pm.
September 23rd- Work. Treatment. Computer repair- man came, turned out to be bad mother board. Joel had scouts. I went to Stress Class at church. John is working on financing for rennovations. Bed around 11:00.
September 24th- Work. Treatment. Had to pick up something for John, go to mom's, and return to work to finish a survey. After finishing the survey, I had to drive it down to Yanceyville St. Came home and went to YMCA to work out. Ate- then took Spencer to 6:30 soccer game (they tied 3-3). Bed about 9:30pm.
September 25th- Work. Treatment. Picked up jacket from mom's house. Went to grocery. Was really tired and stressed about Lynch's complaint. I should be doing complaint, but Dale is working on it. I feel guilty, but with having evaluations to do- I did not volunteer. If this complaint is sustained, Debbie could be terminated. She will be the death of me yet! John's loan was approved.
September 26th- Work. Had to go to PD at 9:00am for a United Way Meeting. Treatment. Came home & rested. Got up and went to YMCA to work out. John & I dressed in our formal attire and attended the Sue Hunter Dinner at the Women's Club. Was real nice- got home at 10:00pm.
September 27th- Work- worked on evaluations. Treatment. Came home and mowed grass, then cleaned upstairs and downstairs. Was REALLY exhausted so I rested a little bit. Took Spencer to get video. Ironed and went to bed at 9:30pm.
September 28th- Got up around 5:30am. Went to church to help SS class with Pancake Breakfast. We didn't get many customers. Took Spencer to his soccer game, they won 3 to 0. Went to "Everybody's Day"!! I stayed about an hour or so then came home and cleaned upstairs. Bought a joker hat for Spencer. Wendy invited us over for hot dogs. Bed at 11:00pm.
September 29th- Got up around 7am. Church and SS. Came home. Ate. Then John went to do a wedding and funeral work. I cooked dinner for next night and made cookies- did laundry. Around 4pm, I took Spencer and Joshua to YMCA with me. They played on playground while I worked out. Bed around 10pm.
September 30th- Last day of radiation treatment!! Yea!! Went to Friendly Shopping Center to Hecht's to get a strapless bra, had gynocology appt with Dr. Lomax. Came home. Went for fast walk. Dinner. Went to Stress Class at church.
October 1st- Worked full day- wasn't bad, because I was busy all day. Came home and fixed dinner, then went to gym to work out. Helped Spencer with homework. Paid bills!!
October 2nd- Worked till 3pm. Came home- helped Spencer with homework. Went to first Wednesday night dinner/bible study- had a real good turn out. Came home and helped Spencer with homework.
october 3rd- Work. CPT Hundley took me out to lunch then we drove over to LT Lunsford's house- he is recovering from knee surgery. He was in a lot of pain. Came home, took Spencer to practice. Went to YMCA to work out. Came home and helped Spencer with homework. Bed late.
October 4th- Worked. Came home- Spencer was asleep- I laid down, but was too anxious to sleep, although I was very tired. got up and started cleaning. Joel went to football game and Spencer got invited to spend the night with Cody. John and I went to Family Diner for supper. Came home and cleaned house- John worked on Brayton wedding.
October 5th- Got up and got busy. Cindy came by at 8:45 and she went to see Spencer's soccer game. I washed car/ran errands/ironed and packed. Left for Linville Ridge about 1:00pm. Went to help John with Brayton Wedding. On way up to Linville, I stopped and got keys to rooms at Smoketree. Kevin, Albert and wife were also up there. About 7pm, we all went to Boone to eat (except John). He finished up around 10:30 or so.
October 6th- John got up and off at about 7:30am.. Albert's wife and I got up to club around 10:45am. Drove to church in Blowing Rock to take wedding flowers and set up. I got separated and showed up at church later. I went back to church at around 3:30pm and stayed till after pictures were taken, then brought candelabras back. John and I changed clothes and went to the Wedding reception. It was a sit down dinner at Club- very nice!! Didn't leave till around 9:30pm. I drove all the way home and John slept. Was really dog tired. Bed after midnight.
October 7th- Work. Was very tired all day- really dragging. Came home & fixed dinner. John and I went to grocery store. Bed around 9:45. Exhausted!
October 8th- Work. Had PFT test at Cone. Came home and took Spencer to his soccer game (his team won). Fixed dinner for Spencer then went and worked out at YMCA. Joel was sick. Did laundry. John had appointment in Greensboro, didn't get home till after midnight.
October 9th- Got up around 6:30am- woke everybody up. Took Spencer to school. Ran & exercised. Went to library and ran other errands. Went to work about 1320. Had to give United Way presentation to D Squad. Got to bed around 11pm.
October 10th- Worked. Went to communications and to PD. Got my eval.- didn't get above stand. this time. Hope that won't effect my overall eval. After work went to Appalachian Outfitters. Looked at trail books and maps, but didn't end up buying anything. Came home, fixed dinner- went to YMCA to work out after dinner. Bed 10:40pm.
October 11th- Work. Lt. Hastings took me to lunch, then we drove out to Belew's Lakes testing new walkie. Helped Jerry- typed services complaints. Invited Cody to spend nite with Spencer.
October 12th- Got up and ran. Took Cody and Spencer to soccer game. They won. Came home and cleaned the upstairs. Took a flower delivery to Greensboro. Came back- John and I went to get something to eat, then we picked up Spencer. Bed around 11:00.
October 13th- Got up. Church. John's mother, Uncle Woodrow and Aunt June came to visit. We went to Women's Club to eat. Came back and visited a little while. Cleaned up kitchen, helped Joel and Spencer strip out their beds. Took Maxwell for a long walk. Angela B and boyfriend stopped by. John rented "Halloween 5" to watch.
October 14th- Went in from 0700-2115 to do United Way to 4 line-ups. In between time, I went to PD and went to look at a couple of stores and went out to eat. Got home at 10pm- everybody was asleep.
October 15th- Took Spencer to school. Ran/walked. Went to dr appointment (Magrinant). He signed a slip for me to go back to full duty! Came home, ran errands. Took car in to get alignment- turned out that right front tire is separating- so got another used tire. Went to Spencer's last soccer game (they lost) and then the team went to Mr Gaddy's Pizza. Got to bed around 9:15.
October 16th- Big day, I returned to full duty today. The vest and gun belt felt SO heavy!! I promptly lost one set of car keys and had to have 2 keys made. Was busy- had to do some remedial training on my MDT. It felt strange being in a patrol car after such a long period of time! Gary was watch commander.
Once again the Lord hath delivered me from the nightmare of cancer. I am SO grateful knowing that God is not finished with me yet. It has been a long summer, but I have been comforted by so many people. Many prayers have helped sustain and heal me. I just thank God for taking care of me. This whole ordeal has brought me closer to my family and helped establish priorities in my life. Being at home all summer was really good for the kids and it made me realize how much I had been gone. Hopefully I have learned not to sweat the little stuff. I just pray that God will be with me at work and carry me through all the stresses that I am faced with there.
This illness has tested my faith and made me stronger- I just hope I will remember the lessons I learned. I hope that in the future I can comfort others suffering from serious illnesses as I have been comforted. I thank God that He still has a mission for me on earth and just pray that He revelas it to me.
One can never appreciate good health until they go through this kind of ordeal. I have learned not to take good health for granted.
I look forward to the future with renewed enthusiasm, knowing that God is with me and will lead me according to His will!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Chapter 17 (Volume 2)
August 20, 1996- Make up drill. Worked with Paulette. By 3:30pm I was very tired! I came home and took shower and worked on dinner. After I took shower- my watch fell into the sink and I had to get John Andrews to rescue it for me! I went to a meeting at church- we got chased out by bats at the church!! I got answer to prayer when John got ahold of Mike and he accepted his job offer! Yeah- maybe now John will have the help he so desperately needs! Bed around 11pm.
August 21st- 1st day of school, got kids up early! Went back to work for the first time in 9 weeks!! I surprised my squad and showed up early for line-up. Church was 306 today. Went down to PD- visited with several people. Went to slide line-up. Went out to lunch with Church and Eric. Talked with Martha and Gary and Jim Gunn. Got off work at 4pm. Came home and was real tired. But could not rest as Spencer was ALL stressed out over homework. John had to go to Greensboro and took car. I called Debbie and she and kids were going to Oak Hollow Mall- so Spencer and I went to get some school supplies for him. Debbie was not in good mood- her kids were driving her crazy! Didn't get home until after 9pm- was tired! Took shower- John was amorous!
August 22nd- Was tired when I got up. I almost had a wreck going to work which really scared me badly. I did Cindy's transfer evaluation. Had an interview with Jim F and George H. Jim Gunn took me out to lunch. Came back and ran reports to read. Was really tired when I tried to read reports. Patsy B called me- she said she'd called me a couple times at home, but apparently Joel did not give me the messages.
Came home and Spencer was stressed about homework. Went and talked with John. Fed boys- Spencer got bath and then we finally got him through his homework. It will get easier!! I was determined NOT to let his homework stress me out!! Talked with Cindy (John's sister). Took shower and went to bed at 10:15pm.
August 23rd- Had radiation oncologist appointment at 10am to get measured for radiation. It took Dr. Goodchild about 2 hours to get all measurements and mark me. Got lunch then went to PD. Briefly saw Patsy and I gave her my medical statements. Talked to CPT H and told him I would start radiation on Monday and I would only be working 1/2 days. Cindy S came by substation- she said she enjoys her new job, but is not organized yet. Came home and walked, then as I was just about to take a bath, John came by and wanted me to ride with him to Greensboro. Came home and ate some soup- took shower & went to bed. Was tired!!
August 25th- Sunday. John had a Jewish wedding in Greensboro to do- so he wasn't around all morning. Spencer and I went to SS and church. Afterwards, I fixed turkey in the crockpot. Joel came home from camping trip and John came home so we sat down to eat. After doing the dishes and making a casserole- I walked for about 3 1/2 miles. Unfortunately, I wasn't thinking and wore my sandals- so I rubbed a place on my foot. Went to church at 6pm for an ice cream social and to look at slides on Bolivia. John and I went to grocery store. Got kids to bed, took shower and then got a call from Heather.
August 26th- Started working 1/2 days. Had radiation treatment at 1100 hrs. Came home, ate lunch and then rested. Was rainy so I didn't walk. Had meeting at church on STRESS. Got to bed around 10pm. Laid awake in bed for a long time before I finally went to sleep.
August 27th- Had appointment with Dr. Magrinant @ 1015 today- he was VERY late and I missed my radiation appointment. Drove downtown and parked- got some money and got something to eat then went back to Cone. They didn't take me until after 2pm. Afterwards, I had to go to Kinard's to get 2 prescriptions filled. Didn't get home until 3pm!! Spencer did his homework and I took him to soccer practice, but it got rained out. Worked out at YMCA for short time. Came home and watched TV.
August 28th- Had staff meeting, but had to leave early due to radiation appt. Got home at about 12:30, ate lunch & rested. Spencer had A LOT of homework to do! I got away for about an hour and went to the YMCA to work out. Spencer was still working on his homework up to bedtime.
August 29th- Went to Cone at 10:00am. Dr. Goodchild decided to completely re-do all the radiation fields. I had to lay on the table for over an hour and a half. I thought I was going to go crazy because my neck and legs hurt so bad! I finally got finished at 12:30- so didn't get home until after 1pm. Ate. Took nap. Kids came home and I got Spencer channeled into his homework. Joel had to tear down the garden. Fed kids then took Spencer to soccer practice. I worked out at the gym while he practiced. Came home and found out that Mike- the designer John was going to hire backed out and is now going to stay @ Elliot's. John was positive about it and I agree that it just wasn't meant to be- it will be his loss!!
August 30th- Talked to Cindy S- she is doing good with her new job and seems to enjoy it. Rested after lunch, then got up and thoroughly cleaned the downstairs- that is the first time I have cleaned ALL summer. Spencer and I went to John's shop and got some Chinese and ate lunch with John while he was working. Really had trouble sleeping- the couch wasn't even comfortable.
August 31st- Cleaned the upstairs. Walked dog. Paid bills. Went to grocery store and did some cooking. Busy day! Took two sleeping pills and slept well.
September 1st- Church. John is doing a wedding today so he won't be home until this afternoon. Josh and Spencer went with me to church. After church, fed boys and took them to creek at the park to hunt for crawdads. John and Kevin didn't get back from all the wedding work until after 7pm. Ate roast that I had cooked all day- Debbie M stopped by. Spencer went and spent the night with Josh.
September 2nd- LABOR DAY!! Got up around 7:30. Went with John to office- he got a couple of funeral plants to deliver. We took the van to Greensboro- picked up plants at Koury, shopped around, ate lunch at Panda Inn, then visited my parents and his mom. Came home and John went up to shop to clean, Tommy and wife came by and Tommy's wife accidently picked up the keys to John's shop. John was able to get Kevin to bring his keys over to lock up the shop. What a day!! Tommy finally called at 10:30 to say that he had the keys. Bed at 11:00.
September 3rd- Had mammogram at 11:30 and then went to hospital for radiation treatment. Didn't get home until after 2pm. Laid down, but didn't really get a nap before Spencer came home. Got him on his homework. I called Vanessa and talked with her about Bone Marrow Program @ Duke. After dinner, I worked out at YMCA. John informed me that David died today (the barber).
September 4th- Had to get an x-ray at GDC and then to see Dr. Magrinant. All is going well, he cut me back to 30mg on the steroids and gave me a plan to cut me back some each week. Went to radiation treatment. Came home. Ate, napped. John and I worked out at YMCA together tonight. Pensy died today. Spencer was in a pissy mood before going to bed. Spencer and I went to the library earlier in the evening. I typed up an award recommendation for Patsy B for Employee of the year.
September 5th- Had treatment and then met Patsy B for lunch at Lucky 32's. had an enjoyable lunch. Came back and took John lunch- he was knee deep in funeral work for Pensy. Spencer was in really "HORRIBLE" mood concerning his homework- really got me stressed. Ate dinner, then John and I went to Pensy's visitation @ Greens. Hurricane Fran is coming into NC coast- very windy and rainy!
September 6th- Hurricane Fran raged all night, but luckily we still had power in morning and no trees had been knocked down. Greensboro looked like a "WAR ZONE"- trees down- lights out everywhere! Boys were out of school today. Came home, made up beds- ironed. Went to a used tire shop and got tire replaced on Jeep. Skylar came over and played with Spencer. After 8:00 John and I went to Sunset for dinner. Bed around 11pm.
September 7th- Was VERY tired this morning! Had drill- found out unit had been activated for State Hurricane clean-up detail. Was dragging most of day. Helped set up for a retirement dinner. Came home and ate- then went for my walk. Showered- bed at 10:00pm.
September 8th- Drill- got out about 3pm. Came home (went to grocery on way), cooked, then went for a walk. Feeling good!
September 9th- Worked 1/2 day, this was last day with squad. Went to treatment. Ate lunch. Rested. Got Spencer started with homework, then went for a walk. Fixed dinner. Watched TV. Read. Took Maxwell for a walk, but we ran most of the way Feel pretty good!!
September 10th- Worked 1/2 day. Treatment- lunch. Did some cooking. Spencer brought home an excellent progress report for last week. His homework and attitude chart have been great motivation for him. Got boy's haircuts. It rained so Spencer didn't have soccer practice. I went to Y and worked out!
September 11th- Work. Treatment. Exercise. Spent time with Spencer. Made Joel turn off TV at 9:00pm and he is pissed. John is at a meeting in Kernersville. Bed early around 9:30pm.
September 12th- Work- treatment. Jim Gunn and Tina had a baby girl yesterday- so I went by Women's Hospital to visit. Came home and ate, rested. Took Spencer to soccer practice and I worked out at Y. Read some and bed.
September 13th- Friday the 13th! Work- treatment- stopped by mom's house and did a couple errands after treatment. Didn't get home until 12:30pm. Cleaned downstairs then took Spencer to Greensboro to get soccer shorts. Afterwards we went to Pizza Inn, then out for yogurt!
September 14th- Spencer had a 10:00 soccer game. 1st game of the season. Came home and finished cleaning upstairs. Joshua came over. I fed boys and ate. Then at 7pm, I had to do State duty at Armory all night (Hurricane Fran). Got a couple hours of sleep.
September 15th- Came home around 8:30am. Got everybody up and to Sunday School. Josh spent the night with Spencer and went to church with him. After church, boys went to Pilot Mt with Youth group. John, Trudy, kevin and I went to Women's Club to eat lunch. Came home and rested. Then around 4pm, John and I went to grocery store. Made a poppy seed cake. Went up to see how painting was coming @ John's shop. Got kids to bed and read paper- chilled.
September 16th- Work. Treatment. Met mom for lunch, then went to look at fabric for jacket. Finally found some fabric- went to pay and it was $92.00!!! Came home and ironed, washed clothes, fed kids. At 7pm, went to Women's Stress workshop at church.
August 21st- 1st day of school, got kids up early! Went back to work for the first time in 9 weeks!! I surprised my squad and showed up early for line-up. Church was 306 today. Went down to PD- visited with several people. Went to slide line-up. Went out to lunch with Church and Eric. Talked with Martha and Gary and Jim Gunn. Got off work at 4pm. Came home and was real tired. But could not rest as Spencer was ALL stressed out over homework. John had to go to Greensboro and took car. I called Debbie and she and kids were going to Oak Hollow Mall- so Spencer and I went to get some school supplies for him. Debbie was not in good mood- her kids were driving her crazy! Didn't get home until after 9pm- was tired! Took shower- John was amorous!
August 22nd- Was tired when I got up. I almost had a wreck going to work which really scared me badly. I did Cindy's transfer evaluation. Had an interview with Jim F and George H. Jim Gunn took me out to lunch. Came back and ran reports to read. Was really tired when I tried to read reports. Patsy B called me- she said she'd called me a couple times at home, but apparently Joel did not give me the messages.
Came home and Spencer was stressed about homework. Went and talked with John. Fed boys- Spencer got bath and then we finally got him through his homework. It will get easier!! I was determined NOT to let his homework stress me out!! Talked with Cindy (John's sister). Took shower and went to bed at 10:15pm.
August 23rd- Had radiation oncologist appointment at 10am to get measured for radiation. It took Dr. Goodchild about 2 hours to get all measurements and mark me. Got lunch then went to PD. Briefly saw Patsy and I gave her my medical statements. Talked to CPT H and told him I would start radiation on Monday and I would only be working 1/2 days. Cindy S came by substation- she said she enjoys her new job, but is not organized yet. Came home and walked, then as I was just about to take a bath, John came by and wanted me to ride with him to Greensboro. Came home and ate some soup- took shower & went to bed. Was tired!!
August 25th- Sunday. John had a Jewish wedding in Greensboro to do- so he wasn't around all morning. Spencer and I went to SS and church. Afterwards, I fixed turkey in the crockpot. Joel came home from camping trip and John came home so we sat down to eat. After doing the dishes and making a casserole- I walked for about 3 1/2 miles. Unfortunately, I wasn't thinking and wore my sandals- so I rubbed a place on my foot. Went to church at 6pm for an ice cream social and to look at slides on Bolivia. John and I went to grocery store. Got kids to bed, took shower and then got a call from Heather.
August 26th- Started working 1/2 days. Had radiation treatment at 1100 hrs. Came home, ate lunch and then rested. Was rainy so I didn't walk. Had meeting at church on STRESS. Got to bed around 10pm. Laid awake in bed for a long time before I finally went to sleep.
August 27th- Had appointment with Dr. Magrinant @ 1015 today- he was VERY late and I missed my radiation appointment. Drove downtown and parked- got some money and got something to eat then went back to Cone. They didn't take me until after 2pm. Afterwards, I had to go to Kinard's to get 2 prescriptions filled. Didn't get home until 3pm!! Spencer did his homework and I took him to soccer practice, but it got rained out. Worked out at YMCA for short time. Came home and watched TV.
August 28th- Had staff meeting, but had to leave early due to radiation appt. Got home at about 12:30, ate lunch & rested. Spencer had A LOT of homework to do! I got away for about an hour and went to the YMCA to work out. Spencer was still working on his homework up to bedtime.
August 29th- Went to Cone at 10:00am. Dr. Goodchild decided to completely re-do all the radiation fields. I had to lay on the table for over an hour and a half. I thought I was going to go crazy because my neck and legs hurt so bad! I finally got finished at 12:30- so didn't get home until after 1pm. Ate. Took nap. Kids came home and I got Spencer channeled into his homework. Joel had to tear down the garden. Fed kids then took Spencer to soccer practice. I worked out at the gym while he practiced. Came home and found out that Mike- the designer John was going to hire backed out and is now going to stay @ Elliot's. John was positive about it and I agree that it just wasn't meant to be- it will be his loss!!
August 30th- Talked to Cindy S- she is doing good with her new job and seems to enjoy it. Rested after lunch, then got up and thoroughly cleaned the downstairs- that is the first time I have cleaned ALL summer. Spencer and I went to John's shop and got some Chinese and ate lunch with John while he was working. Really had trouble sleeping- the couch wasn't even comfortable.
August 31st- Cleaned the upstairs. Walked dog. Paid bills. Went to grocery store and did some cooking. Busy day! Took two sleeping pills and slept well.
September 1st- Church. John is doing a wedding today so he won't be home until this afternoon. Josh and Spencer went with me to church. After church, fed boys and took them to creek at the park to hunt for crawdads. John and Kevin didn't get back from all the wedding work until after 7pm. Ate roast that I had cooked all day- Debbie M stopped by. Spencer went and spent the night with Josh.
September 2nd- LABOR DAY!! Got up around 7:30. Went with John to office- he got a couple of funeral plants to deliver. We took the van to Greensboro- picked up plants at Koury, shopped around, ate lunch at Panda Inn, then visited my parents and his mom. Came home and John went up to shop to clean, Tommy and wife came by and Tommy's wife accidently picked up the keys to John's shop. John was able to get Kevin to bring his keys over to lock up the shop. What a day!! Tommy finally called at 10:30 to say that he had the keys. Bed at 11:00.
September 3rd- Had mammogram at 11:30 and then went to hospital for radiation treatment. Didn't get home until after 2pm. Laid down, but didn't really get a nap before Spencer came home. Got him on his homework. I called Vanessa and talked with her about Bone Marrow Program @ Duke. After dinner, I worked out at YMCA. John informed me that David died today (the barber).
September 4th- Had to get an x-ray at GDC and then to see Dr. Magrinant. All is going well, he cut me back to 30mg on the steroids and gave me a plan to cut me back some each week. Went to radiation treatment. Came home. Ate, napped. John and I worked out at YMCA together tonight. Pensy died today. Spencer was in a pissy mood before going to bed. Spencer and I went to the library earlier in the evening. I typed up an award recommendation for Patsy B for Employee of the year.
September 5th- Had treatment and then met Patsy B for lunch at Lucky 32's. had an enjoyable lunch. Came back and took John lunch- he was knee deep in funeral work for Pensy. Spencer was in really "HORRIBLE" mood concerning his homework- really got me stressed. Ate dinner, then John and I went to Pensy's visitation @ Greens. Hurricane Fran is coming into NC coast- very windy and rainy!
September 6th- Hurricane Fran raged all night, but luckily we still had power in morning and no trees had been knocked down. Greensboro looked like a "WAR ZONE"- trees down- lights out everywhere! Boys were out of school today. Came home, made up beds- ironed. Went to a used tire shop and got tire replaced on Jeep. Skylar came over and played with Spencer. After 8:00 John and I went to Sunset for dinner. Bed around 11pm.
September 7th- Was VERY tired this morning! Had drill- found out unit had been activated for State Hurricane clean-up detail. Was dragging most of day. Helped set up for a retirement dinner. Came home and ate- then went for my walk. Showered- bed at 10:00pm.
September 8th- Drill- got out about 3pm. Came home (went to grocery on way), cooked, then went for a walk. Feeling good!
September 9th- Worked 1/2 day, this was last day with squad. Went to treatment. Ate lunch. Rested. Got Spencer started with homework, then went for a walk. Fixed dinner. Watched TV. Read. Took Maxwell for a walk, but we ran most of the way Feel pretty good!!
September 10th- Worked 1/2 day. Treatment- lunch. Did some cooking. Spencer brought home an excellent progress report for last week. His homework and attitude chart have been great motivation for him. Got boy's haircuts. It rained so Spencer didn't have soccer practice. I went to Y and worked out!
September 11th- Work. Treatment. Exercise. Spent time with Spencer. Made Joel turn off TV at 9:00pm and he is pissed. John is at a meeting in Kernersville. Bed early around 9:30pm.
September 12th- Work- treatment. Jim Gunn and Tina had a baby girl yesterday- so I went by Women's Hospital to visit. Came home and ate, rested. Took Spencer to soccer practice and I worked out at Y. Read some and bed.
September 13th- Friday the 13th! Work- treatment- stopped by mom's house and did a couple errands after treatment. Didn't get home until 12:30pm. Cleaned downstairs then took Spencer to Greensboro to get soccer shorts. Afterwards we went to Pizza Inn, then out for yogurt!
September 14th- Spencer had a 10:00 soccer game. 1st game of the season. Came home and finished cleaning upstairs. Joshua came over. I fed boys and ate. Then at 7pm, I had to do State duty at Armory all night (Hurricane Fran). Got a couple hours of sleep.
September 15th- Came home around 8:30am. Got everybody up and to Sunday School. Josh spent the night with Spencer and went to church with him. After church, boys went to Pilot Mt with Youth group. John, Trudy, kevin and I went to Women's Club to eat lunch. Came home and rested. Then around 4pm, John and I went to grocery store. Made a poppy seed cake. Went up to see how painting was coming @ John's shop. Got kids to bed and read paper- chilled.
September 16th- Work. Treatment. Met mom for lunch, then went to look at fabric for jacket. Finally found some fabric- went to pay and it was $92.00!!! Came home and ironed, washed clothes, fed kids. At 7pm, went to Women's Stress workshop at church.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Chapter 16 (Volume 2)
July 28,1996- Went to church for first time since Duke. After church, we changed clothes and John, Spencer & I left to take Spencer to John's River Camp. We stopped at Cracker Barrel to eat on the way up to camp. Got to camp around 4PM. Got Spencer squared away and then drove straight home. Got home about 7:05PM. I went for a walk, but got rained on! Watched TV and Olympics.
July 29th- Got up around 9AM! (Late!) Lisa H came over and helped me with Spencer's school scholarship. Worked on a bunch of clothes. Got clothes out of my dresser and Spencer's dresser. John & Joel moved guest bedroom suite into Spencer's room and made up the upstairs den. Went for a walk after dinner. John & I went to grocery store. Bed after midnight.
July 30th- Debbie took me to doctor's appointment. Blood work good. Then went to Cone Hospital for a pulmonary function test, which was normal (YEAH!). Came home and worked on house. It is such a mess- I don't know if I will ever get straightened out! Went for a walk after supper. John had a good lead on a possible designer (Mike). I just hope he will decide to go with John and that he will work out. That would be a real answer to prayer! Had BLT's for supper- they didn't set well with me and I ended up throwing up! Watched Olympics.
July 31st- Got up and worked on cleaning out the hallway. Worked probably harder than I should have. I rested afterwards. Walked. The Sunday School Class brought over dinner tonight. Watched Olympics until midnight.
August 1st- Got up and dived into getting Spencer's closet cleaned. It was hard work- it took me almost 4 hrs! Debbie called and asked if I wanted to go to 4 Season's Mall. She picked me up about 2PM. Looked around at the mall. I was hoping I wouldn't run into anyone I knew- I didn't. Came home and grilled burgers. Walked. Burgers were really heavy and didn't sit well, so then I threw up when I came home- felt better. Paid bills which is ALWAYS depressing. Bed late.
August 2nd- Did not sleep well- woke up early and couldn't get back to sleep- was worried about money for Spencer's school. Got up with John then rested on couch. Didn't get dressed until 10:30!! Changed sheets on beds. Washed clothes. Worked on school scholarship application. Walked after dinner, got to bed early around 10:15. Took Lorapan to get to sleep.
August 3rd- Got up a little after 6! Cindy picked me up at 7:15 and we drove up to JRVC to pick up Spencer. We got up there at 10:15AM. Picked up Spencer and about 5 miles out of camp, he realized that he had left his book bag! On way out to main drag, Cindy got a flat tire- some nice man came along and changed it for us. We drove into Lenoir and got tire fixed. Ate lunch in Wilkesboro. Didn't get to T-ville until 4PM. John came home at 6:00PM and wanted to go to a wedding reception in Pleasant Garden- what a drag! I was so tired and had a headache!
August 4th- Went to church. After lunch was really exhausted- so I slept for a couple hours in afternoon. Went for a walk- nothing much else to report. Did watch the closing ceremonies on the Olympics.
August 5th- Not very eventful day. Did go to church for a meeting in PM. Walked.
August 6th- Debbie picked me up at 7:00AM and we went to Duke for my six week check-up. Said "Hi" to some of the nurses at the Clinic. The CAT SCAN was pretty different from what I have had in the past. The good part is that I didn't have to drink as much contrast. However, I did throw-up afterwards. My longest appointment was with the radiation oncologist. They believe radiation of the mammory nodes and even nodes in my neck will be of benefit. I had them call Dr. Goodchild. He has set up an appointment to see me on 8/16/96. We didn't start back from Durham until 3:45PM. We stopped at grocery store on way home. After dinner, I walked downtown to see National Night Out activities- went with Debbie.
August 8th- Spencer went to spend day with Skylar. I gave Maxwell a bath. Joel & I walked Maxwell to Vet to get his shots. Picked up pictures and went to grocery store. Wrote to Lyn Nell and Sue Mehaffy. Got a few phone calls. Head is still throbbing whenever I get up.
August 9th- Went to lawyers office to sign papers on business. Went to Greensboro- made a couple deliveries for John, then went to see Dr. Magrinant. He said everything looked good- he gave me a recipe for homemade gatorade that I am supposed to drink to help rehydrate me. I also got a call from Duke today- the pulmonary people say from my last CAT SCAN, it shows that I may be in the early stages of Pulmonary Toxicity- so far I have not developed any symptoms and I just pray that I don't! Taking steroids is the last thing I want to do! Watched "Iron Will". Slept well.
August 10th- Nothing much to write- usual day.
August 11th- John, Spencer and I went with John up to the mountains to meet with Gwen B. Went to Linville Ridge and toured Brayton's mountain castle. It was quite a place. Then went to country club where John and Gwen went over where she wants flowers for wedding. She took us out to eat at country club. Then we went to the Mast Store- John and Spencer got some shoes. Got home at 7:30PM.
August 12th- Did usual chores. Rested. Was rainy all day- so I didn't walk. At 6:30, John and I drove to Greensboro to celebrate David B's birthday at Long Horn Steak House. We had a good time and met their minister and his wife. They all prayed for me which was nice. We took home doughnuts to the kids. Cleaned cabinets in kitchen and refrigerater.
August 13th- Got up and did chores. Washed clothes. Was extremely tired today- had to rest several times. Went for walk in afternoon- I was very tired and I know I walked like an old lady. Joel fixed dinner and cleaned up kitchen. Watched TV and went to bed. Slept well.
August 14th- Washed clothes- went to grocery store. Rested a lot. Walked 2.6 miles, but was really slow. I'm afraid that I am getting pulmonary toxicity!! I am so lethargic!! I hate to admit it- I prayed so hard not to get it, but...
August 15th- Took Spencer to YMCA. Came home and after cleaning kitchen, I was SO worn out that I laid down on Spencer's bed and slept for a couple hours. I was running a low grade fever and had chills. I helped John deliver a couple pieces, but just felt really "out of it". Didn't have the energy to walk today. Joel cooked dinner tonight. I made a lasagna casserole today. Was running a 101 degree fever in evening.
August 16th- Went to Greensboro with Joel. Went by Dr. Magrinant's office to talk to Valarie- told her about "pulmonary toxicity" problems. Then went to see Dr. Leone. He took out my Hickman, he used novacaine, but it was still a painful process. I am still thankful that I didn't have the doctors at Duke pull it out as it was in pretty deep. Got permission (medical release) to work light duty! He scheduled me for a mammogram. Then I went to see Dr. Goodchild. He asked me how I was doing and I mentioned the pulmonary problems I'd had that week. He was quite concerned and ordered me to go to GDC for a chest x-ray, then go up to see Dr. Reistrom. After giving my medical history, he prescribed me the dreaded PREDNISONE!! Joel and I were starved, but didn't have time to eat as I had to run to the credit union to withdraw some money- then we drove to get some stuff for John. We then quickly went by Sneaker Stadium and I bought shoes for Joel and Spencer. Joel came home and went to see the new Bulldog line-up with friends while I went to the YMCA picnic. I stayed for most of the program. Spencer got the "Robin Williams" award for being the most comical. After picnic, I went to get Chinese as I hadn't eaten ALL day. Ran into Roger, Jim, Gregory and Lisa. I ended up eating with Roger & Jim. Then I went by to see John at his shop and he was hungry so I went to Wendy's and got him something to eat. Came home and got uniform and boots ready for Drill.
August 17th- Went to drill early! Unit went to Ft Bragg, but I stayed at armory with SSG Hailizip and did some things on the computer. Went to lunch with Wines. Got realeased about 3:30. I went by Sneaker Stadium and exchanged Spencer's tennis shoes. Came home and Joshua was here. I fed them. At 6PM, Joel and Spencer went with Ms Thompson to a movie. Joshua went for a 2.6 mile walk with me. Josh and Kevin brought home Chinese when they got home. I was really coughing badly and had a runny nose- so I ended up sleeping on couch so as not to disturb John. I took a shower for the first time in 6 months!!
August 18th- Drill. Got really hungry at 11:00AM- went to lunch at Hardees. Worked on computer in morning, then when unit came back, I had to monitor female for drug testing. We got released around 3:30 and I drove to K-mart and bought 2 pair jeans for boys, belts etc. Came home and found out that John had had to do a couple funeral pieces after church and he and Spencer forgot about Liberty Drive Open House until after it was over!! I should have written it down. John went over to Jimmy Flynt's B-day party in Winston.
August 19th- Went to Cone Hospital first thing in morning for resting MUGA Test. I didn't get out until 10:30!! Went to Armory to make up drill. Went to Substation II for lunch. Came home and had lasagna. Joel went to scouts. Spencer got two movies and we watched "Powder". Bed late. Had to sleep on couch because of my coughing.
Talked to Major Cohn at Armory and found out his wife has breast cancer- we talked for over an hour- he really needed to talk to someone. I gave him my phone number and volunteered my services to his wife. He said he would talk to her to see if she wanted to talk to me. I really appreciated his sharing with me. Everyday I am finding out about someone else.
July 29th- Got up around 9AM! (Late!) Lisa H came over and helped me with Spencer's school scholarship. Worked on a bunch of clothes. Got clothes out of my dresser and Spencer's dresser. John & Joel moved guest bedroom suite into Spencer's room and made up the upstairs den. Went for a walk after dinner. John & I went to grocery store. Bed after midnight.
July 30th- Debbie took me to doctor's appointment. Blood work good. Then went to Cone Hospital for a pulmonary function test, which was normal (YEAH!). Came home and worked on house. It is such a mess- I don't know if I will ever get straightened out! Went for a walk after supper. John had a good lead on a possible designer (Mike). I just hope he will decide to go with John and that he will work out. That would be a real answer to prayer! Had BLT's for supper- they didn't set well with me and I ended up throwing up! Watched Olympics.
July 31st- Got up and worked on cleaning out the hallway. Worked probably harder than I should have. I rested afterwards. Walked. The Sunday School Class brought over dinner tonight. Watched Olympics until midnight.
August 1st- Got up and dived into getting Spencer's closet cleaned. It was hard work- it took me almost 4 hrs! Debbie called and asked if I wanted to go to 4 Season's Mall. She picked me up about 2PM. Looked around at the mall. I was hoping I wouldn't run into anyone I knew- I didn't. Came home and grilled burgers. Walked. Burgers were really heavy and didn't sit well, so then I threw up when I came home- felt better. Paid bills which is ALWAYS depressing. Bed late.
August 2nd- Did not sleep well- woke up early and couldn't get back to sleep- was worried about money for Spencer's school. Got up with John then rested on couch. Didn't get dressed until 10:30!! Changed sheets on beds. Washed clothes. Worked on school scholarship application. Walked after dinner, got to bed early around 10:15. Took Lorapan to get to sleep.
August 3rd- Got up a little after 6! Cindy picked me up at 7:15 and we drove up to JRVC to pick up Spencer. We got up there at 10:15AM. Picked up Spencer and about 5 miles out of camp, he realized that he had left his book bag! On way out to main drag, Cindy got a flat tire- some nice man came along and changed it for us. We drove into Lenoir and got tire fixed. Ate lunch in Wilkesboro. Didn't get to T-ville until 4PM. John came home at 6:00PM and wanted to go to a wedding reception in Pleasant Garden- what a drag! I was so tired and had a headache!
August 4th- Went to church. After lunch was really exhausted- so I slept for a couple hours in afternoon. Went for a walk- nothing much else to report. Did watch the closing ceremonies on the Olympics.
August 5th- Not very eventful day. Did go to church for a meeting in PM. Walked.
August 6th- Debbie picked me up at 7:00AM and we went to Duke for my six week check-up. Said "Hi" to some of the nurses at the Clinic. The CAT SCAN was pretty different from what I have had in the past. The good part is that I didn't have to drink as much contrast. However, I did throw-up afterwards. My longest appointment was with the radiation oncologist. They believe radiation of the mammory nodes and even nodes in my neck will be of benefit. I had them call Dr. Goodchild. He has set up an appointment to see me on 8/16/96. We didn't start back from Durham until 3:45PM. We stopped at grocery store on way home. After dinner, I walked downtown to see National Night Out activities- went with Debbie.
August 8th- Spencer went to spend day with Skylar. I gave Maxwell a bath. Joel & I walked Maxwell to Vet to get his shots. Picked up pictures and went to grocery store. Wrote to Lyn Nell and Sue Mehaffy. Got a few phone calls. Head is still throbbing whenever I get up.
August 9th- Went to lawyers office to sign papers on business. Went to Greensboro- made a couple deliveries for John, then went to see Dr. Magrinant. He said everything looked good- he gave me a recipe for homemade gatorade that I am supposed to drink to help rehydrate me. I also got a call from Duke today- the pulmonary people say from my last CAT SCAN, it shows that I may be in the early stages of Pulmonary Toxicity- so far I have not developed any symptoms and I just pray that I don't! Taking steroids is the last thing I want to do! Watched "Iron Will". Slept well.
August 10th- Nothing much to write- usual day.
August 11th- John, Spencer and I went with John up to the mountains to meet with Gwen B. Went to Linville Ridge and toured Brayton's mountain castle. It was quite a place. Then went to country club where John and Gwen went over where she wants flowers for wedding. She took us out to eat at country club. Then we went to the Mast Store- John and Spencer got some shoes. Got home at 7:30PM.
August 12th- Did usual chores. Rested. Was rainy all day- so I didn't walk. At 6:30, John and I drove to Greensboro to celebrate David B's birthday at Long Horn Steak House. We had a good time and met their minister and his wife. They all prayed for me which was nice. We took home doughnuts to the kids. Cleaned cabinets in kitchen and refrigerater.
August 13th- Got up and did chores. Washed clothes. Was extremely tired today- had to rest several times. Went for walk in afternoon- I was very tired and I know I walked like an old lady. Joel fixed dinner and cleaned up kitchen. Watched TV and went to bed. Slept well.
August 14th- Washed clothes- went to grocery store. Rested a lot. Walked 2.6 miles, but was really slow. I'm afraid that I am getting pulmonary toxicity!! I am so lethargic!! I hate to admit it- I prayed so hard not to get it, but...
August 15th- Took Spencer to YMCA. Came home and after cleaning kitchen, I was SO worn out that I laid down on Spencer's bed and slept for a couple hours. I was running a low grade fever and had chills. I helped John deliver a couple pieces, but just felt really "out of it". Didn't have the energy to walk today. Joel cooked dinner tonight. I made a lasagna casserole today. Was running a 101 degree fever in evening.
August 16th- Went to Greensboro with Joel. Went by Dr. Magrinant's office to talk to Valarie- told her about "pulmonary toxicity" problems. Then went to see Dr. Leone. He took out my Hickman, he used novacaine, but it was still a painful process. I am still thankful that I didn't have the doctors at Duke pull it out as it was in pretty deep. Got permission (medical release) to work light duty! He scheduled me for a mammogram. Then I went to see Dr. Goodchild. He asked me how I was doing and I mentioned the pulmonary problems I'd had that week. He was quite concerned and ordered me to go to GDC for a chest x-ray, then go up to see Dr. Reistrom. After giving my medical history, he prescribed me the dreaded PREDNISONE!! Joel and I were starved, but didn't have time to eat as I had to run to the credit union to withdraw some money- then we drove to get some stuff for John. We then quickly went by Sneaker Stadium and I bought shoes for Joel and Spencer. Joel came home and went to see the new Bulldog line-up with friends while I went to the YMCA picnic. I stayed for most of the program. Spencer got the "Robin Williams" award for being the most comical. After picnic, I went to get Chinese as I hadn't eaten ALL day. Ran into Roger, Jim, Gregory and Lisa. I ended up eating with Roger & Jim. Then I went by to see John at his shop and he was hungry so I went to Wendy's and got him something to eat. Came home and got uniform and boots ready for Drill.
August 17th- Went to drill early! Unit went to Ft Bragg, but I stayed at armory with SSG Hailizip and did some things on the computer. Went to lunch with Wines. Got realeased about 3:30. I went by Sneaker Stadium and exchanged Spencer's tennis shoes. Came home and Joshua was here. I fed them. At 6PM, Joel and Spencer went with Ms Thompson to a movie. Joshua went for a 2.6 mile walk with me. Josh and Kevin brought home Chinese when they got home. I was really coughing badly and had a runny nose- so I ended up sleeping on couch so as not to disturb John. I took a shower for the first time in 6 months!!
August 18th- Drill. Got really hungry at 11:00AM- went to lunch at Hardees. Worked on computer in morning, then when unit came back, I had to monitor female for drug testing. We got released around 3:30 and I drove to K-mart and bought 2 pair jeans for boys, belts etc. Came home and found out that John had had to do a couple funeral pieces after church and he and Spencer forgot about Liberty Drive Open House until after it was over!! I should have written it down. John went over to Jimmy Flynt's B-day party in Winston.
August 19th- Went to Cone Hospital first thing in morning for resting MUGA Test. I didn't get out until 10:30!! Went to Armory to make up drill. Went to Substation II for lunch. Came home and had lasagna. Joel went to scouts. Spencer got two movies and we watched "Powder". Bed late. Had to sleep on couch because of my coughing.
Talked to Major Cohn at Armory and found out his wife has breast cancer- we talked for over an hour- he really needed to talk to someone. I gave him my phone number and volunteered my services to his wife. He said he would talk to her to see if she wanted to talk to me. I really appreciated his sharing with me. Everyday I am finding out about someone else.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Chapter 15 (Volume 2)
July 4th, 1996- 4th of July!! This will be the most unusual 4th of July I have ever spent! Went to clinic- got good news!!- I can go home TOMORROW!! Yeah! John and I drove to Chapel Hill and walked down Franklin Street and looked in the shops. Came back to the room and I called Dale and talked to him. John and I took naps, then we went down to the pool and talked with George and Arletta and Melvin and Heather. Unfortunately, we didn't see any fireworks. Came back to room- I got sick-then took bath and took medicine and went to bed.
July 5th- RELEASE DATE!! I got my discharge papers today! I chose to leave my "Hickman" in and talk with Dr. Magrinant before getting it out. Said my good-byes to everybody- it was sad to go, but I was glad to be going home. We left around noon and stopped in Burlington and had lunch at Applebees. Got back to T-Ville. John showed me his new shop- it will be real nice. Joel welcomed me home. I talked with David W and Patsy B. Unpacked and then sat on the front porch. At some point, I discovered that we had left my medicine bag at Duke! I couldn't believe it. I made some phone calls and found it at the clinic. John got Kevin to drive him to Durham. I ate a couple small meals.
July 6th- Didn't get up until about 8am. It is SO good to be home! The boys stressed me out some this morning. I am glad Joel is going to camp tomorrow- it will be good to just deal with one child. JoAnn C picked up Spencer to take him to the lake house for the night- I'm sure he will have a good time swimming. Trudy and Kevin came over in late AM. John came home and we got to visit some. Jim and Roger came by and put up flagpole in the front yard- the house will now look like an EMBASSY! I took it easy today, so far I have not been sick since coming home. John and Kevin worked on weddings ALL afternoon and didn't get home till almost 10PM!! Cindy S came over and took Joel, Joshua and me to K-Mart and grocery store to get some necessities.
July 7th- Sunday- Got up about 8AM. and just hung on the front porch most of the morning. Heather called-she's doing good- it was good talking with her. John and Joel went to church. Jim and Roger came over to check out flagpole. They stayed and visited. Mom and Dad brought over lunch and ate with us. Joel left for John's Riner Valley Camp today. Spencer came home from lake house with JoAnn around 5pm. John and I drove to Lowe's in High Point to get a state flag.
July 8th- Spencer went with Debbie to Emerald Point. Was a very quiet day. I walked to the post office to buy stamps and mail bills. I did a couple loads of laundry. Watched videos "Forget Paris" and "Free Willy 2". Church people brought over dinner. Debbie brought Spencer home and she and Zachary ate dinner with us. Betty (the maid) stopped by and told us she was coming on Wednesday. I got sick right before going to bed- I guess the ham did not set well.
July 9th- Had appointment with Dr. Magrinant. Cindy came and took me to the appointment then we visited at the house. My blood work looked good! Spencer went skating with Skylar at 7pm. John came home late and we ate a late dinner. Then we went for a walk. We ran into Dale and Joan from the jewelry store and visited briefly. Bed around 10pm.
July 10th- Fairly quiet day. Faye C and her son came over to visit around 3pm. Spencer and I played some Monopoly and started watching "Jumanji". John did not come home till about 7pm. He had had a bad day and was really stressed out. I tried to calm him, but he was really upset over how he was working himself to death. Betty came to clean at 8pm!! That did not help the stress level as John could not go up to his room and chill out. It was an extremely stressful evening- not good for either of us. Got to bed around 10:30pm.
July 11th- Debbie stopped by in AM. Talked with both Cindy's. Spencer and I walked to Hardee's for breakfast. Did some laundry and ironing. Blanche B brought over a cake and casserole. Then later in the evening, Virginia C and husband stopped by and brought a pound cake. John came home around 8PM as he had an appointment in Greensboro.
July 12th- Missed a day somehow!
July 13th- Saturday- Walked to library. Was pretty tired out most of the day. Joel came home around 2:30PM. I started washing clothes. Joel and I went for a walk with Maxwell. John took us to get a couple of movies at Blockbuster- he came home about 8PM from the wedding he was installing. We watched "N.E.T." on video- it was real suspenseful. Spencer spent another night with Joshua.
July 11th?- We finally got a little bit of rain from Hurricane Bertha, but not nearly enough. It was a good thing we did not go to Sunset Beach as originally planned this week or we would have had to evacuate by Thursday because of the hurricane. Didn't do much today- Spencer and I walked up to the Antique Mall and back. I was more tired today. John took Spencer over to Kevin's house to spend the night.
July 14th- Sunday. Joel got sick the night before so I let him sleep till noon. John and I did not go to church. Spencer was still at Kevin's house. Mom, Dad, and Aunt Alice came over and brought dinner. I was SO tired today. I just had no energy whatsoever! I rested a couple hours. Michael A came over to borrow John's truck. Kevin and Trudy brought Spencer back from Emerald Point. Spencer fell asleep on couch and slept about 3 hours! John and I went to Lowe's Foods.
July 15th- Had both boys today! Stress! Slylar came over to play with Spencer in afternoon. Joel and I watched "Bridges of Madison County". It was good, but slow morning. Betty came over to clean around 5PM. John didn't come home till about 7:30PM. I cooked steaks. I was tired out all day- I didn't even take a walk like I am supposed to. John bought two Chinese silk screen paintings at the Chelsea House sale and hung them in the hallway- they look real nice.
July 16th- Mom and Aunt Alice came over. Mom took me to Dr's office and Alice ironed some clothes for me. Blood work was good. I saw Dr. Magrinant. Was feeling very tired today. I talked to Cindy, she has the flu.
July 17th- Watered front yard in AM. Washed and folded clothes. Felt better today-more energy. Dale A came over about 3PM and brought a roast, broccoli casserole and scalloped potatoes. It was SO nice of him to spend his day off cooking for me! Talked to Arletta- she got out of Duke on Friday. Also talked to Heather. Heather's platelets have come down and she has a sinus infection.
July 18th- Got sick after breakfast. Spencer and I went to library and card shop today. Read a lot. Talked to Cindy and Jim today. Had a nice thunderstorm around 5PM. I went with kids to walk dog after supper. John came home around 7PM. We watched some T.V. together. Read to Spencer.
July 19th- Did some laundry. Kevin came by at 4:30 and took me to K-mart and Ingles. Fixed dinner for Josh and Spencer. John did not come home till about 11PM as he was working on a bunch of weddings. I watched the opening ceremonies of the Olympic games in Atlanta- it was really spectacular! Didn't get to bed till 1AM.
July 20th- Dad's birthday. Watered front. Read some. Jim Gunn brought over a turkey breast, vegetables, tea and a cake. We visited about an hour. John had 4 weddings today!! He didn't get home till about 9:30PM. I watched olympics on TV.
July 21st- Sunday. Got boys up early and got them ready for mom and dad to pick up. They picked them up around 9AM and took them to Charlotte to Roger and Kim's. Around 11AM I fell asleep on couch. I did not get dressed till 1PM.
I talked to Cindy Shane. Watched some afternoon olympics. At 5:30, John and I drove to Greensboro to eat with Dot. She loaded us down with food!! Came home, dropped off food, then went to video store. Was late so we didn't watch any movies.
July 22nd- Got up and watered front. Went for long walk, came back and rested. It rained about an hour today! Studied some. At 4PM, John came home and I went to the gym with him- I bicycled and walked on a treadmill. Today was the most exercise I have gotten. After dinner, John and I watched "Muriel's Wedding". It was good. I watched some olympics after that.
July 23rd- Went for a long walk. Rested some in afternoon. Was tired most of afternoon. After dinner, John and I watched "Father of the Bride Part 2", then I watched olympics until midnight.
July 24th- Got up late (8). It rained last night- so didn't have to water. Watched olympics. Rested and studied crime book. When John got home, he started "picking" about dinner, kitchen being cleaned etc. We got in a big fight. I watched some olympics and he played on the computer. Bed around 11PM.
July 25th- Watered ferns. Took long walk. Watched olympics. Napped. Debbie stopped by for a short visit. John came home around 6:30PM and we went to Lotus Palace to eat. Then we went to K-Mart and grocery store. Came home and watched olympics. Then had a good time. Bed around 12:30!
July 26th- Walked about 2 miles. Didn't do anything real exciting- watched olympics. Rested. Fixed dinner and waited for John. Ate dinner, then I walked to John's shop and sat with him while he made several church vases. Home around 9PM.
July 27th- Walked even longer today. Watered ferns. Rested. Watched olympics. Roger and Kim brought boys at about 1PM. I fed them lunch. They bought Spencer's bed from us and they loaded it in their van. John and I went to furniture outlet and bought a couch. John and I went to Greensboro and took Dot out to Outback for her birthday. Came home and watched Olympics.
July 5th- RELEASE DATE!! I got my discharge papers today! I chose to leave my "Hickman" in and talk with Dr. Magrinant before getting it out. Said my good-byes to everybody- it was sad to go, but I was glad to be going home. We left around noon and stopped in Burlington and had lunch at Applebees. Got back to T-Ville. John showed me his new shop- it will be real nice. Joel welcomed me home. I talked with David W and Patsy B. Unpacked and then sat on the front porch. At some point, I discovered that we had left my medicine bag at Duke! I couldn't believe it. I made some phone calls and found it at the clinic. John got Kevin to drive him to Durham. I ate a couple small meals.
July 6th- Didn't get up until about 8am. It is SO good to be home! The boys stressed me out some this morning. I am glad Joel is going to camp tomorrow- it will be good to just deal with one child. JoAnn C picked up Spencer to take him to the lake house for the night- I'm sure he will have a good time swimming. Trudy and Kevin came over in late AM. John came home and we got to visit some. Jim and Roger came by and put up flagpole in the front yard- the house will now look like an EMBASSY! I took it easy today, so far I have not been sick since coming home. John and Kevin worked on weddings ALL afternoon and didn't get home till almost 10PM!! Cindy S came over and took Joel, Joshua and me to K-Mart and grocery store to get some necessities.
July 7th- Sunday- Got up about 8AM. and just hung on the front porch most of the morning. Heather called-she's doing good- it was good talking with her. John and Joel went to church. Jim and Roger came over to check out flagpole. They stayed and visited. Mom and Dad brought over lunch and ate with us. Joel left for John's Riner Valley Camp today. Spencer came home from lake house with JoAnn around 5pm. John and I drove to Lowe's in High Point to get a state flag.
July 8th- Spencer went with Debbie to Emerald Point. Was a very quiet day. I walked to the post office to buy stamps and mail bills. I did a couple loads of laundry. Watched videos "Forget Paris" and "Free Willy 2". Church people brought over dinner. Debbie brought Spencer home and she and Zachary ate dinner with us. Betty (the maid) stopped by and told us she was coming on Wednesday. I got sick right before going to bed- I guess the ham did not set well.
July 9th- Had appointment with Dr. Magrinant. Cindy came and took me to the appointment then we visited at the house. My blood work looked good! Spencer went skating with Skylar at 7pm. John came home late and we ate a late dinner. Then we went for a walk. We ran into Dale and Joan from the jewelry store and visited briefly. Bed around 10pm.
July 10th- Fairly quiet day. Faye C and her son came over to visit around 3pm. Spencer and I played some Monopoly and started watching "Jumanji". John did not come home till about 7pm. He had had a bad day and was really stressed out. I tried to calm him, but he was really upset over how he was working himself to death. Betty came to clean at 8pm!! That did not help the stress level as John could not go up to his room and chill out. It was an extremely stressful evening- not good for either of us. Got to bed around 10:30pm.
July 11th- Debbie stopped by in AM. Talked with both Cindy's. Spencer and I walked to Hardee's for breakfast. Did some laundry and ironing. Blanche B brought over a cake and casserole. Then later in the evening, Virginia C and husband stopped by and brought a pound cake. John came home around 8PM as he had an appointment in Greensboro.
July 12th- Missed a day somehow!
July 13th- Saturday- Walked to library. Was pretty tired out most of the day. Joel came home around 2:30PM. I started washing clothes. Joel and I went for a walk with Maxwell. John took us to get a couple of movies at Blockbuster- he came home about 8PM from the wedding he was installing. We watched "N.E.T." on video- it was real suspenseful. Spencer spent another night with Joshua.
July 11th?- We finally got a little bit of rain from Hurricane Bertha, but not nearly enough. It was a good thing we did not go to Sunset Beach as originally planned this week or we would have had to evacuate by Thursday because of the hurricane. Didn't do much today- Spencer and I walked up to the Antique Mall and back. I was more tired today. John took Spencer over to Kevin's house to spend the night.
July 14th- Sunday. Joel got sick the night before so I let him sleep till noon. John and I did not go to church. Spencer was still at Kevin's house. Mom, Dad, and Aunt Alice came over and brought dinner. I was SO tired today. I just had no energy whatsoever! I rested a couple hours. Michael A came over to borrow John's truck. Kevin and Trudy brought Spencer back from Emerald Point. Spencer fell asleep on couch and slept about 3 hours! John and I went to Lowe's Foods.
July 15th- Had both boys today! Stress! Slylar came over to play with Spencer in afternoon. Joel and I watched "Bridges of Madison County". It was good, but slow morning. Betty came over to clean around 5PM. John didn't come home till about 7:30PM. I cooked steaks. I was tired out all day- I didn't even take a walk like I am supposed to. John bought two Chinese silk screen paintings at the Chelsea House sale and hung them in the hallway- they look real nice.
July 16th- Mom and Aunt Alice came over. Mom took me to Dr's office and Alice ironed some clothes for me. Blood work was good. I saw Dr. Magrinant. Was feeling very tired today. I talked to Cindy, she has the flu.
July 17th- Watered front yard in AM. Washed and folded clothes. Felt better today-more energy. Dale A came over about 3PM and brought a roast, broccoli casserole and scalloped potatoes. It was SO nice of him to spend his day off cooking for me! Talked to Arletta- she got out of Duke on Friday. Also talked to Heather. Heather's platelets have come down and she has a sinus infection.
July 18th- Got sick after breakfast. Spencer and I went to library and card shop today. Read a lot. Talked to Cindy and Jim today. Had a nice thunderstorm around 5PM. I went with kids to walk dog after supper. John came home around 7PM. We watched some T.V. together. Read to Spencer.
July 19th- Did some laundry. Kevin came by at 4:30 and took me to K-mart and Ingles. Fixed dinner for Josh and Spencer. John did not come home till about 11PM as he was working on a bunch of weddings. I watched the opening ceremonies of the Olympic games in Atlanta- it was really spectacular! Didn't get to bed till 1AM.
July 20th- Dad's birthday. Watered front. Read some. Jim Gunn brought over a turkey breast, vegetables, tea and a cake. We visited about an hour. John had 4 weddings today!! He didn't get home till about 9:30PM. I watched olympics on TV.
July 21st- Sunday. Got boys up early and got them ready for mom and dad to pick up. They picked them up around 9AM and took them to Charlotte to Roger and Kim's. Around 11AM I fell asleep on couch. I did not get dressed till 1PM.
I talked to Cindy Shane. Watched some afternoon olympics. At 5:30, John and I drove to Greensboro to eat with Dot. She loaded us down with food!! Came home, dropped off food, then went to video store. Was late so we didn't watch any movies.
July 22nd- Got up and watered front. Went for long walk, came back and rested. It rained about an hour today! Studied some. At 4PM, John came home and I went to the gym with him- I bicycled and walked on a treadmill. Today was the most exercise I have gotten. After dinner, John and I watched "Muriel's Wedding". It was good. I watched some olympics after that.
July 23rd- Went for a long walk. Rested some in afternoon. Was tired most of afternoon. After dinner, John and I watched "Father of the Bride Part 2", then I watched olympics until midnight.
July 24th- Got up late (8). It rained last night- so didn't have to water. Watched olympics. Rested and studied crime book. When John got home, he started "picking" about dinner, kitchen being cleaned etc. We got in a big fight. I watched some olympics and he played on the computer. Bed around 11PM.
July 25th- Watered ferns. Took long walk. Watched olympics. Napped. Debbie stopped by for a short visit. John came home around 6:30PM and we went to Lotus Palace to eat. Then we went to K-Mart and grocery store. Came home and watched olympics. Then had a good time. Bed around 12:30!
July 26th- Walked about 2 miles. Didn't do anything real exciting- watched olympics. Rested. Fixed dinner and waited for John. Ate dinner, then I walked to John's shop and sat with him while he made several church vases. Home around 9PM.
July 27th- Walked even longer today. Watered ferns. Rested. Watched olympics. Roger and Kim brought boys at about 1PM. I fed them lunch. They bought Spencer's bed from us and they loaded it in their van. John and I went to furniture outlet and bought a couch. John and I went to Greensboro and took Dot out to Outback for her birthday. Came home and watched Olympics.
Chapter 14 (Volume 2)
June 1st- Got up and walked Maxwell. Cleaned house all day. Took Spencer to a Pool Party at country club. John's allergies are acting up as well as Spencer's asthma. Bed at 11:30.
June 2nd- Church. Went to High Rock Lake with Youth after church. Talked with Lisa- she volunteered to take me to Durham on June 14th if John can't.
June 3rd- Back to work- served 4 evaluations. Talked with Roxanne at Duke. She told me about another study at Duke that I qualified for, but the only catch is that it would delay my going into the hospital by 2 weeks. I would have gladly done it, if it wouldn't have thrown off Cindy's trip up here. I called Cindy, but her leave is firmed up so I won't change anything. Debbie M came over tonight and she agreed to come down on the 19th-20th and 21st, which was really an answer to prayer. She is out of school for the summer and feels she can get someone to watch her kids. Praise God- I was really concerned about getting someone to help me- I just felt real uncomfortable about asking people- it was such an imposition.
June 4th- Got up early- left for work at 06:15. Served 4 evaluations today. Left at 3pm. Had an AG meeting at Spencer's school- Ms Matter/ Ms Moore talked to me- they said they felt Spencer was AG material, but due to his ADD, standardized tests do not show his intelligence. They want me to have Will Johnson re-test him next week. I broke the news to Spencer and he took it well. I took him out to Taco Bell, then dropped him off at the house because I had a meeting at church. When I got home, Spencer was really feeling sick- I gave him some medicine. John had a wedding appointment in G-boro, still was not home by 10:30!
June 5th- Finished evaluations. Lunsford gave me my evaluation. Found out SGT Slaughter is going to staff duty- I would have gotten mad had I not been on limited duty! Came home and ate, then walked dog. John came home and as we were sitting on front porch, Nicole came over- we went to bed late.
June 6th- Talked with Patsy B today- she will see me on the 19th. Took Gary out to lunch today, we went to "Ole' Miner". He still was feeling really tired. Had a complaint on Lynch and Miller. I don't know how it will turn out- will have to leave it with Dale, as I won't be able to talk with officers since tomorrow is my last day at work. Church's wife had a baby girl- he came by the SS to check on getting some days off. Lady called from Caring House and said there is no place for me to stay the 10th-12th, so it looks like I will just have to drive back and forth each day- bummer!
June 7th- Joel's 14th Birthday! Finished up odds and ends at work today- last day for at least a month and a half. Went to see Valarie at Dr. Magrinant's office- she showed me how to inject myself with NUPAGEN (growth factor). Took Joel out to eat at Oak Hollow Mall- then we went mall walking, home and bed late.
June 8th- Drill. Nothing too exciting- did chores (ironing etc). Received NUEPRON by Federal Express so I can give myself injections for the next 4 days.
June 9th- Drill. Typed some more awards. After drill, went to Dot's house. She took us out to dinner at TK Tripps. Was very good. Was very tired today. Was very tired driving home. Bed at 11:00.
June 10th- Started pheresis treatment today at Duke. Got up early and took Joel to Middle School where he left to go to Florida. I drove to Durham by myself. During pheresis treatment I got this really weird numb-tingling sensation. The nurse said it was from lack of calcium. My reaction was pretty severe so she ended up running an IV of calcium afterwards. The nurse doing my pheresis was Susan Bell, Sammy Bell's sister-in-law! It's a small world. I met another lady and her husband (Heather and Marvin), she will be on the same cycle with me. After pheresis, I went with Heather and Marvin to Sassy's Restaurant for lunch. Marvin picked up the tab! After lunch, I went back to the Bone Marrow Clinic to get two whole bags of blood. Apparently, my red blood count was low. They gave me some benadryl with it and it made me sleepy- so I rested some. I didn't get finished at the clinic till 6pm!!
June 11th- Went to Duke for 2nd pheresis treatment. Heather was there and I met another lady from Blacksburg, VA. Left Duke around 3pm. Treatment went smoothly. John and I went to the grocery store, then grilled out tonight. I called Lyn Nell- so I wouldn't forget- It was good talking to her. Bed at 11:00pm.
June 12th- Back to Duke for last day of pheresis. Went smoothly. Marvin and Heather were there- they were upset by what we had been told the day before. Marvin talked to Dr. Rubin and he came back and said that the Bone Marrow Transplant was the way to go and that the odds were better with it. Came home- did clothes, cleaned, packed etc. Bed late.
June 13th- Cleaned around house-packed and tried to get everything squared away before tomorrow. Cooked out with Wendy H. Spencer went skating at Zach's birthday party.
June 14th- Finished getting everything squared away. John and I left Thomasville around 10:30. Got to Duke Pulmonary Lab and because I had eaten, they had to potpone the procedure. John and I came over to 9200 Unit where I checked in, then we walked back to Pulmonary. They gave me a drug, Vicoset, that I definitely had a reaction to. It made me real restless. I got sick and threw up while John and I were going down to eat. I made John take me outside, because I was freezing. I ran a 101 temperature. I took a shower and got cleaned up. They put in a foley catheter-which is not the most comfortable thing. The nurses are pretty nice- I slept pretty well.
June 15th- Woke up around 6am- with nurses talking vitals. Dr. Rubin came by and said since I was running a fever (101) last night and my white count is up- he wants to wait a day before doing chemo. So I will just rest comfortably today. Got up and walked around a little bit. NCNG (NC national Guard) Chaplin Jones came by to see me. They gave me two units of blood, which with the Benadryl made me sleep all afternoon. Heather and Melvin came late afternoon and I went to visit with them. Called John and Patsy B. Received phone calls from LT Lunsford and Debbie M. Bed at around 11:30.
June 16th- Slept O.K., but was more restless, probably because I had slept so much yesterday afternoon.
June 17th- Had a miserable day- started the chemo, was a bummer. It made me real restless. I felt like I was coming out of my skin. Patsy brought me a present, but they wouldn't let me see her. I was like a caged animal- it was bad. Finally it was over with and they let me take a shower. Felt good then, but could not sleep all afternoon. John and Debbie came up for training- they said they talked to me but I totally don't remember seeing them.
June 20th- Debbie came to pick me up. I had diarrhea today and also began my vomiting spells. I felt absolutely "TERRIBLE"! I threw up my medicines and the worst side effect was that I was up ALL night!! By daybreak, I was wrecked. I hardly had the strength to go to the clinic. Was there until around 1pm, slept a little, then had to return at 3pm for some stuff. Got cards and letters- call from John, Joel, Mom, Lt Lunsford, Gary H. and Joan. Hope to be able to sleep tonight.
June 21st- July 1st- I was too sick on and off to keep up with my daily journal. Joan came and spent the first weekend with me. Then Debbie M came back, then Cindy S and then Cindy, my sister-in-law, spent the next week with me up to July 2nd. They were all excellent and very necessary.
John brought Joel and Spencer up the first weekend to see me. They went swimming and to a movie. Spencer cried when he had to leave.
I had many phone calls during this time. I had visits from mom and dad, then mom by herself another day, Tina L, and my brother, Roger. The first couple days out of the hospital were really bad. A lot of nausea and vomiting. Then slowly, I improved, however, I still throw up from time to time. My sleeping improved.
July 1st- Cindy (sister-in-law) was with me the day my white blood count got to 11,000- so they let me go out in public. Cindy and I went to the mall and then went to Grady's to eat. I was very chilled most of the day from being in the air conditioning. When I came back to the Hampton- I was exhausted and I was running a fever- so I had to go to the clinic where they did a blood culture. My fever did go down quickly, and the rest of the evening wasn't too bad. My diarrhea was bothering me all day.
July 2nd- Cindy S came to let Cindy (my sister-in-law) go back to T-ville and Greensboro to visit before she had to fly back to Florida. Was having a good day. Cindy S and I went to Applebees for lunch- was really good. Then after we got back, Cindy gave me two pills and I threw up my whole lunch!! What a bummer! Had a rain storm which knocked out the electricity at the Hampton Inn. Talked to the boys a couple times. Went out to the mall and bought presents for the boys and bandanas for me. Ate some vegetables at Picadilly, then got some TCBY yogurt. Came back to the room and played scrabble- I won!! Talked to John late. Had trouble sleeping without my feather pillow. Finally fell asleep after 1AM!!
July 3rd- Went to clinic- was home by 11:00am. My platelet count needs to increase and steady out before I can go home, so it may be a couple more days. Came back to room and started to play scrabble with Cindy. Got sick to my stomach and threw up. Then after awhile, we went to Chick-fil-A for lunch. Felt better. Received several phone calls- Jim Gunn, John M and Faye C. John came around 4:30 and we talked with Cindy till around 6pm. Then John and I went to Olive Garden. After eating, we went to South Square Mall. Ended up losing my dinner!! Got to room around 9:30pm.
June 2nd- Church. Went to High Rock Lake with Youth after church. Talked with Lisa- she volunteered to take me to Durham on June 14th if John can't.
June 3rd- Back to work- served 4 evaluations. Talked with Roxanne at Duke. She told me about another study at Duke that I qualified for, but the only catch is that it would delay my going into the hospital by 2 weeks. I would have gladly done it, if it wouldn't have thrown off Cindy's trip up here. I called Cindy, but her leave is firmed up so I won't change anything. Debbie M came over tonight and she agreed to come down on the 19th-20th and 21st, which was really an answer to prayer. She is out of school for the summer and feels she can get someone to watch her kids. Praise God- I was really concerned about getting someone to help me- I just felt real uncomfortable about asking people- it was such an imposition.
June 4th- Got up early- left for work at 06:15. Served 4 evaluations today. Left at 3pm. Had an AG meeting at Spencer's school- Ms Matter/ Ms Moore talked to me- they said they felt Spencer was AG material, but due to his ADD, standardized tests do not show his intelligence. They want me to have Will Johnson re-test him next week. I broke the news to Spencer and he took it well. I took him out to Taco Bell, then dropped him off at the house because I had a meeting at church. When I got home, Spencer was really feeling sick- I gave him some medicine. John had a wedding appointment in G-boro, still was not home by 10:30!
June 5th- Finished evaluations. Lunsford gave me my evaluation. Found out SGT Slaughter is going to staff duty- I would have gotten mad had I not been on limited duty! Came home and ate, then walked dog. John came home and as we were sitting on front porch, Nicole came over- we went to bed late.
June 6th- Talked with Patsy B today- she will see me on the 19th. Took Gary out to lunch today, we went to "Ole' Miner". He still was feeling really tired. Had a complaint on Lynch and Miller. I don't know how it will turn out- will have to leave it with Dale, as I won't be able to talk with officers since tomorrow is my last day at work. Church's wife had a baby girl- he came by the SS to check on getting some days off. Lady called from Caring House and said there is no place for me to stay the 10th-12th, so it looks like I will just have to drive back and forth each day- bummer!
June 7th- Joel's 14th Birthday! Finished up odds and ends at work today- last day for at least a month and a half. Went to see Valarie at Dr. Magrinant's office- she showed me how to inject myself with NUPAGEN (growth factor). Took Joel out to eat at Oak Hollow Mall- then we went mall walking, home and bed late.
June 8th- Drill. Nothing too exciting- did chores (ironing etc). Received NUEPRON by Federal Express so I can give myself injections for the next 4 days.
June 9th- Drill. Typed some more awards. After drill, went to Dot's house. She took us out to dinner at TK Tripps. Was very good. Was very tired today. Was very tired driving home. Bed at 11:00.
June 10th- Started pheresis treatment today at Duke. Got up early and took Joel to Middle School where he left to go to Florida. I drove to Durham by myself. During pheresis treatment I got this really weird numb-tingling sensation. The nurse said it was from lack of calcium. My reaction was pretty severe so she ended up running an IV of calcium afterwards. The nurse doing my pheresis was Susan Bell, Sammy Bell's sister-in-law! It's a small world. I met another lady and her husband (Heather and Marvin), she will be on the same cycle with me. After pheresis, I went with Heather and Marvin to Sassy's Restaurant for lunch. Marvin picked up the tab! After lunch, I went back to the Bone Marrow Clinic to get two whole bags of blood. Apparently, my red blood count was low. They gave me some benadryl with it and it made me sleepy- so I rested some. I didn't get finished at the clinic till 6pm!!
June 11th- Went to Duke for 2nd pheresis treatment. Heather was there and I met another lady from Blacksburg, VA. Left Duke around 3pm. Treatment went smoothly. John and I went to the grocery store, then grilled out tonight. I called Lyn Nell- so I wouldn't forget- It was good talking to her. Bed at 11:00pm.
June 12th- Back to Duke for last day of pheresis. Went smoothly. Marvin and Heather were there- they were upset by what we had been told the day before. Marvin talked to Dr. Rubin and he came back and said that the Bone Marrow Transplant was the way to go and that the odds were better with it. Came home- did clothes, cleaned, packed etc. Bed late.
June 13th- Cleaned around house-packed and tried to get everything squared away before tomorrow. Cooked out with Wendy H. Spencer went skating at Zach's birthday party.
June 14th- Finished getting everything squared away. John and I left Thomasville around 10:30. Got to Duke Pulmonary Lab and because I had eaten, they had to potpone the procedure. John and I came over to 9200 Unit where I checked in, then we walked back to Pulmonary. They gave me a drug, Vicoset, that I definitely had a reaction to. It made me real restless. I got sick and threw up while John and I were going down to eat. I made John take me outside, because I was freezing. I ran a 101 temperature. I took a shower and got cleaned up. They put in a foley catheter-which is not the most comfortable thing. The nurses are pretty nice- I slept pretty well.
June 15th- Woke up around 6am- with nurses talking vitals. Dr. Rubin came by and said since I was running a fever (101) last night and my white count is up- he wants to wait a day before doing chemo. So I will just rest comfortably today. Got up and walked around a little bit. NCNG (NC national Guard) Chaplin Jones came by to see me. They gave me two units of blood, which with the Benadryl made me sleep all afternoon. Heather and Melvin came late afternoon and I went to visit with them. Called John and Patsy B. Received phone calls from LT Lunsford and Debbie M. Bed at around 11:30.
June 16th- Slept O.K., but was more restless, probably because I had slept so much yesterday afternoon.
June 17th- Had a miserable day- started the chemo, was a bummer. It made me real restless. I felt like I was coming out of my skin. Patsy brought me a present, but they wouldn't let me see her. I was like a caged animal- it was bad. Finally it was over with and they let me take a shower. Felt good then, but could not sleep all afternoon. John and Debbie came up for training- they said they talked to me but I totally don't remember seeing them.
June 20th- Debbie came to pick me up. I had diarrhea today and also began my vomiting spells. I felt absolutely "TERRIBLE"! I threw up my medicines and the worst side effect was that I was up ALL night!! By daybreak, I was wrecked. I hardly had the strength to go to the clinic. Was there until around 1pm, slept a little, then had to return at 3pm for some stuff. Got cards and letters- call from John, Joel, Mom, Lt Lunsford, Gary H. and Joan. Hope to be able to sleep tonight.
June 21st- July 1st- I was too sick on and off to keep up with my daily journal. Joan came and spent the first weekend with me. Then Debbie M came back, then Cindy S and then Cindy, my sister-in-law, spent the next week with me up to July 2nd. They were all excellent and very necessary.
John brought Joel and Spencer up the first weekend to see me. They went swimming and to a movie. Spencer cried when he had to leave.
I had many phone calls during this time. I had visits from mom and dad, then mom by herself another day, Tina L, and my brother, Roger. The first couple days out of the hospital were really bad. A lot of nausea and vomiting. Then slowly, I improved, however, I still throw up from time to time. My sleeping improved.
July 1st- Cindy (sister-in-law) was with me the day my white blood count got to 11,000- so they let me go out in public. Cindy and I went to the mall and then went to Grady's to eat. I was very chilled most of the day from being in the air conditioning. When I came back to the Hampton- I was exhausted and I was running a fever- so I had to go to the clinic where they did a blood culture. My fever did go down quickly, and the rest of the evening wasn't too bad. My diarrhea was bothering me all day.
July 2nd- Cindy S came to let Cindy (my sister-in-law) go back to T-ville and Greensboro to visit before she had to fly back to Florida. Was having a good day. Cindy S and I went to Applebees for lunch- was really good. Then after we got back, Cindy gave me two pills and I threw up my whole lunch!! What a bummer! Had a rain storm which knocked out the electricity at the Hampton Inn. Talked to the boys a couple times. Went out to the mall and bought presents for the boys and bandanas for me. Ate some vegetables at Picadilly, then got some TCBY yogurt. Came back to the room and played scrabble- I won!! Talked to John late. Had trouble sleeping without my feather pillow. Finally fell asleep after 1AM!!
July 3rd- Went to clinic- was home by 11:00am. My platelet count needs to increase and steady out before I can go home, so it may be a couple more days. Came back to room and started to play scrabble with Cindy. Got sick to my stomach and threw up. Then after awhile, we went to Chick-fil-A for lunch. Felt better. Received several phone calls- Jim Gunn, John M and Faye C. John came around 4:30 and we talked with Cindy till around 6pm. Then John and I went to Olive Garden. After eating, we went to South Square Mall. Ended up losing my dinner!! Got to room around 9:30pm.
Chapter 13 (Volume 2)
17 May 96- Talked to Cindy reference dates for Duke. Got up and cleaned house ALL day. Took Joel to Doctor to get camp physical. John worked late- was asleep before he got home.
18 May 96- Drill. Cleaned up from camp. Had awards formation. I received an ARCOM. Got to leave around 12:30. Went to police SS and talked with Dale and Chuck for a little bit. Came home and took boys to get some sandals. John was in a bad mood. I finished mowing back yard. Took bath and got ready for Jim M's Dining with Friends Party. John had come home and taken a nap. Spencer and I waited on him to go to party (He did 5 weddings and was totally burned out!!). I ended up taking Francis F home to Greensboro. Bed at 1:00am.
19 May 96- Went to Church. Came home and ate lunch, then Spencer, John and I went to Lowe's in High Point. Came home and took boys to YMCA to swim. I worked out-felt good- I regret now that I haven't been keeping up with my exercises.
20 May 96- Back to work. Found out Phil is still out on W/C. Church was made acting corporal. I went to the new communications center today- it is really nice. Went down to the PD- talked to several people. Talked with Patsy B and updated her on what was going on with me. Talked to Phil to see how he was doing- he said he would be out until June.
21 May 96- Worked on evaluations today. Talked to Cindy (she is coming June 26), she said she had talked to John yesterday and he failed to tell me about her calling. That made me mad and I told John I was very disappointed that he didn't tell me. Kevin and Josh came over and ate hamburgers with us. I picked up my contract for tomorrow's test, which I am not looking forward to.
22 May 96- Had CT Scans and Bone Scan today. Didn't go to work till 1:00pm. Worked on evaluations. John and I took mom and dad out to Outback Steakhouse for their 48th wedding anniversary.
23 May 96- Took Pulmonary function test- everything was OK. Took exercise MUGA test. The lady giving it to me said I was the first patient to finish the test. Was really tired when I came home. I got to bed around 9:30.
24 May 96- Worked on evaluations. Jim F and George H took me out to lunch at Pepper Tree. It was real enjoyable. Went to see Dr. Magrinant, he said all my tests were great and he expected me to recover quickly from the Bone Marrow. My next appointment with him is not until August. Spencer and I went to Greensboro to see "Spy Hard" at the Terrace Theater- afterwards we got yogurt. Spencer was excited as he will be testing for the "AG Academically Gifted" program for next year. He got a superior in both Math and English on his end of year test.
May 25th- Got up and worked on downstairs. Ran some errands then took Spencer to the YMCA to swim with Skylar. I worked out. Cleaned house, did grocery shopping. Bed at 10:30pm.
May 26th- Took Maxwell for 3 1/2 mile walk. John and I were greeters for Church-went to sunday school. John had some funeral work. I cleaned up the mildew on one of the porch swings. John and I went to see "Birdcage". Didn't get to bed till about 1:30am.
May 27th (Memorial Day)- Got up and took Maxwell for a long walk. Came back and painted 3 rocking chairs. John had some funeral work to do. Kids had school. John and I went to Elizabeth's for pizza at lunch. Took ALL day to paint chairs!! But they look like new!
May 28th- Back to work today. Church was acting SGT today- it was nice and slow. Mom had us over for dinner for our anniversary tonight. Dad was much more uptight and frustrated than the last time I saw him. He has fits of outrage which are sudden and somewhat frightening. Mom says they happen all the time when she is with him.
May 29th- Our 19th Wedding Anniversary! Had Court with Squad, then after Court, Church and I worked on the monthly report. Came home and grilled out steaks. John and I then drove to High Point and then Greensboro looking for wicker furniture. Got to bed late.
May 30th- Did not work. I went to Duke for 2 appointments. Went to see Dr. Lotz in Pulmonology. He is doing a lung study on high dose chemo on the effects it has on the lungs. I agreed to participate in the study. Then I went to the Bone Marrow Clinic and saw Dr. Rubin- he was a real asshole!! He tried to tell me that sometimes it is better to wait until cancer comes back before doing a Bone Marrow Transplant. What he said made absolutely no sense! He was real laid back and his bedside manner turned me off!! He took a bone marrow biopsy- it was not pleasant, but the nurse was really nice and held my hand during the entire procedure. Then she showed me around the clinic. I was pretty down after my appointment, but decided to go to the Hampton Inn. I asked to see a room and was given a key. I went up to the room she indicated and tried to unlock it. Finally someone came to the door. I explained my situation and was invited in. I spent 30 minutes or so talking to a lady from Kentucky about the Bone Marrow Program. She said it was really good. She also confirmed that Dr. Rubin was the most unpopular Dr at the clinic, but that the nurses were real nice. She was very informative, told me what I needed to bring etc. I felt better than when I left, but was still bothered by Dr. Rubin's comments.
May 31st- I worked on evaluations- Martha K called and took me to lunch. Then she really surprised me by giving me an electric blanket throw! I got a call from Duke Bone Marrow Center and talked to Roxanne. She said there was a growth factor study going on and she would give me more details on Monday and also made arrangements to get me my shots. I also talked with Valarie and told her what a bum meeting I had at Duke the day before- she agreed and said the doctor was in left field as the goal was to get the tumors reduced or gone by the time they get to Duke. I felt better after talking to her.
18 May 96- Drill. Cleaned up from camp. Had awards formation. I received an ARCOM. Got to leave around 12:30. Went to police SS and talked with Dale and Chuck for a little bit. Came home and took boys to get some sandals. John was in a bad mood. I finished mowing back yard. Took bath and got ready for Jim M's Dining with Friends Party. John had come home and taken a nap. Spencer and I waited on him to go to party (He did 5 weddings and was totally burned out!!). I ended up taking Francis F home to Greensboro. Bed at 1:00am.
19 May 96- Went to Church. Came home and ate lunch, then Spencer, John and I went to Lowe's in High Point. Came home and took boys to YMCA to swim. I worked out-felt good- I regret now that I haven't been keeping up with my exercises.
20 May 96- Back to work. Found out Phil is still out on W/C. Church was made acting corporal. I went to the new communications center today- it is really nice. Went down to the PD- talked to several people. Talked with Patsy B and updated her on what was going on with me. Talked to Phil to see how he was doing- he said he would be out until June.
21 May 96- Worked on evaluations today. Talked to Cindy (she is coming June 26), she said she had talked to John yesterday and he failed to tell me about her calling. That made me mad and I told John I was very disappointed that he didn't tell me. Kevin and Josh came over and ate hamburgers with us. I picked up my contract for tomorrow's test, which I am not looking forward to.
22 May 96- Had CT Scans and Bone Scan today. Didn't go to work till 1:00pm. Worked on evaluations. John and I took mom and dad out to Outback Steakhouse for their 48th wedding anniversary.
23 May 96- Took Pulmonary function test- everything was OK. Took exercise MUGA test. The lady giving it to me said I was the first patient to finish the test. Was really tired when I came home. I got to bed around 9:30.
24 May 96- Worked on evaluations. Jim F and George H took me out to lunch at Pepper Tree. It was real enjoyable. Went to see Dr. Magrinant, he said all my tests were great and he expected me to recover quickly from the Bone Marrow. My next appointment with him is not until August. Spencer and I went to Greensboro to see "Spy Hard" at the Terrace Theater- afterwards we got yogurt. Spencer was excited as he will be testing for the "AG Academically Gifted" program for next year. He got a superior in both Math and English on his end of year test.
May 25th- Got up and worked on downstairs. Ran some errands then took Spencer to the YMCA to swim with Skylar. I worked out. Cleaned house, did grocery shopping. Bed at 10:30pm.
May 26th- Took Maxwell for 3 1/2 mile walk. John and I were greeters for Church-went to sunday school. John had some funeral work. I cleaned up the mildew on one of the porch swings. John and I went to see "Birdcage". Didn't get to bed till about 1:30am.
May 27th (Memorial Day)- Got up and took Maxwell for a long walk. Came back and painted 3 rocking chairs. John had some funeral work to do. Kids had school. John and I went to Elizabeth's for pizza at lunch. Took ALL day to paint chairs!! But they look like new!
May 28th- Back to work today. Church was acting SGT today- it was nice and slow. Mom had us over for dinner for our anniversary tonight. Dad was much more uptight and frustrated than the last time I saw him. He has fits of outrage which are sudden and somewhat frightening. Mom says they happen all the time when she is with him.
May 29th- Our 19th Wedding Anniversary! Had Court with Squad, then after Court, Church and I worked on the monthly report. Came home and grilled out steaks. John and I then drove to High Point and then Greensboro looking for wicker furniture. Got to bed late.
May 30th- Did not work. I went to Duke for 2 appointments. Went to see Dr. Lotz in Pulmonology. He is doing a lung study on high dose chemo on the effects it has on the lungs. I agreed to participate in the study. Then I went to the Bone Marrow Clinic and saw Dr. Rubin- he was a real asshole!! He tried to tell me that sometimes it is better to wait until cancer comes back before doing a Bone Marrow Transplant. What he said made absolutely no sense! He was real laid back and his bedside manner turned me off!! He took a bone marrow biopsy- it was not pleasant, but the nurse was really nice and held my hand during the entire procedure. Then she showed me around the clinic. I was pretty down after my appointment, but decided to go to the Hampton Inn. I asked to see a room and was given a key. I went up to the room she indicated and tried to unlock it. Finally someone came to the door. I explained my situation and was invited in. I spent 30 minutes or so talking to a lady from Kentucky about the Bone Marrow Program. She said it was really good. She also confirmed that Dr. Rubin was the most unpopular Dr at the clinic, but that the nurses were real nice. She was very informative, told me what I needed to bring etc. I felt better than when I left, but was still bothered by Dr. Rubin's comments.
May 31st- I worked on evaluations- Martha K called and took me to lunch. Then she really surprised me by giving me an electric blanket throw! I got a call from Duke Bone Marrow Center and talked to Roxanne. She said there was a growth factor study going on and she would give me more details on Monday and also made arrangements to get me my shots. I also talked with Valarie and told her what a bum meeting I had at Duke the day before- she agreed and said the doctor was in left field as the goal was to get the tumors reduced or gone by the time they get to Duke. I felt better after talking to her.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Chapter 12 (Volume 2)
9 April 96- Went back to work today. Stomach felt queasy, but did not throw up. Dale and I discussed Debbie's complaint, I think he understands where we need to go on it. Also got a complaint on Miller- I will probably handle it.
10 April 96- Took boys into Greensboro with me and left them at mom's. Picked them up for an appt with Dr. Sharpless at 11:00. Took them to Taco Bell for lunch. Went down to PD all afternoon. Enjoyed visiting with people I hadn't seen in awhile. Administered Phil's evaluation at PD. I only have Ronnie's and Miller's left to do.
11 April 96- Went straight to PD. Served 2 evaluations and interviewed Miller for a complaint he had. Gary took me out to lunch at Kabuto's Steak House. Went back to SS and tried to get some stuff done. John worked late. Didn't eat much dinner- wasn't too hungry. Had major diarrhea problems from taking the Caltrate of Magnesium!
12 April 96- Worked on Miller's complaint all day. Had to take Joel to the dentist. John worked till almost 11pm. The boys helped at John's shop. Bed late.
13 April 96- Had Drill- Administered PT test. Was real tired. John worked all day- very busy. Bed at 10:30.
14 April 96- Drill. John had bunches of funeral work today. I fixed hamburgers and hot dogs when I got home. Kevin and Josh ate with us. Joel broke off crystal banister piece- John was really upset as I knew he would be. I don't know what to do with Joel- he is SO clumsy & distructive!
15 April 96- Worked on Tim's complaint. John invited me to furniture market to Garcia Imports. I ate dinner with them and had a nice visit. Bed late.
16 April 96- Went to see Dr. Magrinant today- CAT SCAN SHOWS- CANCER IS GONE!! I can't believe it- only 3 treatments! Praise God! Talked to Patsy today. Ate lunch with Gary and Martha.
17 April 96- Finished up Miller's complaint. Had lunch with Julie today.
18 April 96- Routine day. John had me run errands for him after work- we didn't eat until after 8PM- John and Joel cut the grass.
19 April 96- Had CPR all day- didn't really have any fun people in my class- so it was kind of "ho hum". Came home and was reallly tired. I was going to clean downstairs, but was just too tired!
20 April 96- Got up and cleaned house. Took Spencer to get a hair cut which took longer than I anticipated. Took all day just to clean upstairs. I made beef stew and after dinner John and Joel helped me clean the downstairs. I was SO tired- sick of cleaning all day!! John got to work in the yard some.
21 April 96- Sent kids to church. Trudy, Kevin and some of their friends from NY came over. We went to Furniture Market. We went to the usual showrooms. Didn't get home until about 6:30pm. Then we visited with them till almost 9PM!! I enjoyed the day but thought they would never leave. Did not get my ironing done!
22 April 96- My birthday (43rd)! Worked on time cards. Gary came to visit me. I also got a call from Peggy- it was good talking to her again. John called Ingrid and I talked to her for a minute. We rounded up family and John took us to "OUT WEST" in Kernersville to eat- then we went to Jimmy and Jerome's for dessert. It was a nice birthday, but I got to bed very late!
23 April 96- Had staff meeting. Mom and Dad took me out to lunch- because of staff meeting, they had to wait on me for almost an hour. Dad was very nervous and hard to talk to. Gary left me a gift- a 1 oz silver dollar- that was really nice of him. Also, yesterday, I received a card , an anonymous gift of $200 in it. I almost cried. I want to thank those responsible, but since I don't know who sent it, I will just have to thank them through the Dept Newsletter. Trudy and Kevin stopped by last night- I was SO tired and I had SO much to do, but we did visit with them till around 9PM.
24 April 96- Got a lot accomplished today. Did bi-monthly evaluations on rookies and finished up recommendations of discipline on Debbie. John is really gung-ho about buying a building with Wendy. Hope it works out for them. Got to bed at a more decent hour than last two nights.
25 April 96- Had lunch with Joan today. Found out that Phil has to have more knee surgery and will be out probably as long, if not longer than I will. At end of day, Debbie came it to talk to me- I smoothed her feathers. Then Ronnie was fussing because Dale didn't tell him that he would have to work slide again next week. I am glad I will be off tomorrow.
26 April 96- Had chemo treatment (last one)! Ann and Peggy drove me. Tried to get schedule pinned down on going to Duke- still very "iffy". My worse fear is that it will interfere with our vacation plans! Cindy called last night, but I couldn't give her any definite dates for her to come.
27 April 96- Slept late. Did not feel great, but still needed to get house cleaned. Got Joel's help. I threw up my breakfast, but dinner stayed down. I slept for a few hours in afternoon- then ironed. John and Spencer went to Kevin's house. Bed at around 11:00pm.
28 April 96- Slept till 8:00AM. I didn't go to church. John and I went to grocery store. John went to pick up Spencer at Kevin's. Bed at 11:00PM.
29 April 96- Still feeling lousy from the chemo- so I stayed home today. Joel came home sick today. Took Spencer to get YMCA medical form completed. Rested some in afternoon. Bed after 10PM.
30 April 96- Went back to work. Joel was home sick today. Went to SGT Sutton's retirement. Jim G took me out to lunch, then had RIOT Control class all afternoon. Came home and talked to Rev Staunton. Made kids hot dogs. John not feeling good- is uptight about business and problems. I feel so frustrated and so useless that I can't help him. We talked about vacation and it looks like if I can't get anything confirmed with Duke, the best thing is to cancel the vacation- I'll know more on Friday.
1 May 96- My squad was back to work today. Talked with Dale to catch up on things. Gary and Martha took me out to lunch today. Came back and completed my monthly report. Jackie B brought dinner over tonight. Bed around 10PM.
2 May 96- tied up loose ends at the office. Finished up trainee evaluations (bi-monthly).
4 May- 15 May 96- Attended National Guard Summer Camp at Ft Pickett, VA
16 May 96- Returned home from camp. House was a wreck as expected. Joel had a band concert. John was really sick. Took boys to Wendy's, then to band concert. Bed late. Got a letter from Duke about Bone Marrow dates.
10 April 96- Took boys into Greensboro with me and left them at mom's. Picked them up for an appt with Dr. Sharpless at 11:00. Took them to Taco Bell for lunch. Went down to PD all afternoon. Enjoyed visiting with people I hadn't seen in awhile. Administered Phil's evaluation at PD. I only have Ronnie's and Miller's left to do.
11 April 96- Went straight to PD. Served 2 evaluations and interviewed Miller for a complaint he had. Gary took me out to lunch at Kabuto's Steak House. Went back to SS and tried to get some stuff done. John worked late. Didn't eat much dinner- wasn't too hungry. Had major diarrhea problems from taking the Caltrate of Magnesium!
12 April 96- Worked on Miller's complaint all day. Had to take Joel to the dentist. John worked till almost 11pm. The boys helped at John's shop. Bed late.
13 April 96- Had Drill- Administered PT test. Was real tired. John worked all day- very busy. Bed at 10:30.
14 April 96- Drill. John had bunches of funeral work today. I fixed hamburgers and hot dogs when I got home. Kevin and Josh ate with us. Joel broke off crystal banister piece- John was really upset as I knew he would be. I don't know what to do with Joel- he is SO clumsy & distructive!
15 April 96- Worked on Tim's complaint. John invited me to furniture market to Garcia Imports. I ate dinner with them and had a nice visit. Bed late.
16 April 96- Went to see Dr. Magrinant today- CAT SCAN SHOWS- CANCER IS GONE!! I can't believe it- only 3 treatments! Praise God! Talked to Patsy today. Ate lunch with Gary and Martha.
17 April 96- Finished up Miller's complaint. Had lunch with Julie today.
18 April 96- Routine day. John had me run errands for him after work- we didn't eat until after 8PM- John and Joel cut the grass.
19 April 96- Had CPR all day- didn't really have any fun people in my class- so it was kind of "ho hum". Came home and was reallly tired. I was going to clean downstairs, but was just too tired!
20 April 96- Got up and cleaned house. Took Spencer to get a hair cut which took longer than I anticipated. Took all day just to clean upstairs. I made beef stew and after dinner John and Joel helped me clean the downstairs. I was SO tired- sick of cleaning all day!! John got to work in the yard some.
21 April 96- Sent kids to church. Trudy, Kevin and some of their friends from NY came over. We went to Furniture Market. We went to the usual showrooms. Didn't get home until about 6:30pm. Then we visited with them till almost 9PM!! I enjoyed the day but thought they would never leave. Did not get my ironing done!
22 April 96- My birthday (43rd)! Worked on time cards. Gary came to visit me. I also got a call from Peggy- it was good talking to her again. John called Ingrid and I talked to her for a minute. We rounded up family and John took us to "OUT WEST" in Kernersville to eat- then we went to Jimmy and Jerome's for dessert. It was a nice birthday, but I got to bed very late!
23 April 96- Had staff meeting. Mom and Dad took me out to lunch- because of staff meeting, they had to wait on me for almost an hour. Dad was very nervous and hard to talk to. Gary left me a gift- a 1 oz silver dollar- that was really nice of him. Also, yesterday, I received a card , an anonymous gift of $200 in it. I almost cried. I want to thank those responsible, but since I don't know who sent it, I will just have to thank them through the Dept Newsletter. Trudy and Kevin stopped by last night- I was SO tired and I had SO much to do, but we did visit with them till around 9PM.
24 April 96- Got a lot accomplished today. Did bi-monthly evaluations on rookies and finished up recommendations of discipline on Debbie. John is really gung-ho about buying a building with Wendy. Hope it works out for them. Got to bed at a more decent hour than last two nights.
25 April 96- Had lunch with Joan today. Found out that Phil has to have more knee surgery and will be out probably as long, if not longer than I will. At end of day, Debbie came it to talk to me- I smoothed her feathers. Then Ronnie was fussing because Dale didn't tell him that he would have to work slide again next week. I am glad I will be off tomorrow.
26 April 96- Had chemo treatment (last one)! Ann and Peggy drove me. Tried to get schedule pinned down on going to Duke- still very "iffy". My worse fear is that it will interfere with our vacation plans! Cindy called last night, but I couldn't give her any definite dates for her to come.
27 April 96- Slept late. Did not feel great, but still needed to get house cleaned. Got Joel's help. I threw up my breakfast, but dinner stayed down. I slept for a few hours in afternoon- then ironed. John and Spencer went to Kevin's house. Bed at around 11:00pm.
28 April 96- Slept till 8:00AM. I didn't go to church. John and I went to grocery store. John went to pick up Spencer at Kevin's. Bed at 11:00PM.
29 April 96- Still feeling lousy from the chemo- so I stayed home today. Joel came home sick today. Took Spencer to get YMCA medical form completed. Rested some in afternoon. Bed after 10PM.
30 April 96- Went back to work. Joel was home sick today. Went to SGT Sutton's retirement. Jim G took me out to lunch, then had RIOT Control class all afternoon. Came home and talked to Rev Staunton. Made kids hot dogs. John not feeling good- is uptight about business and problems. I feel so frustrated and so useless that I can't help him. We talked about vacation and it looks like if I can't get anything confirmed with Duke, the best thing is to cancel the vacation- I'll know more on Friday.
1 May 96- My squad was back to work today. Talked with Dale to catch up on things. Gary and Martha took me out to lunch today. Came back and completed my monthly report. Jackie B brought dinner over tonight. Bed around 10PM.
2 May 96- tied up loose ends at the office. Finished up trainee evaluations (bi-monthly).
4 May- 15 May 96- Attended National Guard Summer Camp at Ft Pickett, VA
16 May 96- Returned home from camp. House was a wreck as expected. Joel had a band concert. John was really sick. Took boys to Wendy's, then to band concert. Bed late. Got a letter from Duke about Bone Marrow dates.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Chapter 11 (Volume 2)
19 March 1996- Got up around 5am. Took bath- got kids up and ate breakfast. By 6am, I was worn out and had to go back to bed because I was exhausted. So much for my going to work today- at least I tried!!
Slept till about 9am then got up and dusted and vacuumed downstairs. Then I rested some more. Was very rainy and dreary outside.
Read and did some praying- rested, but didn't really sleep.
John had to teach at Davidson so Spencer had me to himself- we read Goosebumps book. Went to bed around 9pm.
20 March 1996- Went back to work today- I seem to be over my last bout with chemotherapy. Did not get tired during the day but by 9pm, I was ready to crash.
Jimmy and Jerome were at house when I got home from work. Hadn't seen them in ages.
21 March 1996- Had staff meeting. Gary H took me out to lunch today- we had a nice visit. Was real tired after reading to Spencer, but got in bed and couldn't sleep. Had stomach cramps- woke up several times.
22 March 1996- My squad was back on duty today. Took distribution downtown and got to visit with a bunch of people. George H and Jim F came out to SS and visited with me for about 2 hrs. I didn't get much work done today, but enjoying visiting with people I hadn't got to see for awhile. Took Lorazapam to sleep.
23 March 1996- Drill- was late, but stayed at Armory while everybody else went to Butner to qualify. Was a long day. Came home and John and I went to a progressive dinner our Sunday School class had. It was enjoyable.
24 March 1996- Drill- This is the first time everybody saw my wig. They all said they liked it. Came home and walked dog- was very tired and tried to rest. John and I went to the store. Bed at 10pm.
25 March 1996- Got up and sent a Birthday e-mail gram to Lyn Nell. Typical Monday- very busy. Dale took me out to lunch at K & W today. Did two evaluations. After dinner, John started moving furniture, didn't get to bed until 10pm. Slept in master bedroom. Spencer woke me up with a cough at 1:40 and after getting up to give him medicine, I couldn't sleep so I went down to couch. Slept very little between 2:00-4:30am.
26 March 1996- Was really tired today, because I did not sleep well night before. Went to get blood work done today- talked to Valarie. She suggested maybe giving me a sedative next time to make me sleep first 24 hours. Came home and got my room cleaned so furniture can be moved in. John wasn't home.
27 March 1996- Was really tired today- it was hard to get up. This moving furniture, cleaning & stuff is really getting to me. Worked on time cards and monthly report. After dinner, John and Joel moved furniture into guest room- it looks real nice. I was exhausted when I went to bed as it was after 10pm.
28 March 1996- Was really tired today- all this mving and cleaning is killing me. The new bed in the guest room was very comfortable! Worked on evaluations at work- only have about four done. Was rainy and cold all day. Patsy called me and said she has some bills ready for me- it looks like about $500 so far- eek! After supper, we worked more on moving and cleaning- don't think it will ever end. Cindy brought me a dinner to substation- that was so thoughtful of her! *Found out Debbie J. has breast cancer! She already had lump removed, but will have more surgery next week. Poor girl- I think she's still in shock! Told her to call me if she has any questions.
29 March 1996- I took day off work so I could get the home staightened up- the upstairs is SO torn up from moving furniture. I cleaned all day one room at a time. Spencer came home and feel asleep in his room, so after cleaning John's room- I decide to get his room after dinner. I was under the impression all week that Spencer would be spending the night with Joshua. John came home and he was tired and got VERY angry about the hall and Spencer's room still in a mess. We had a knock down drag out fight- one of the worst we have had in our marriage- we were screaming and yelling at each other!! It was terrible!! I just wanted to die right then- it was just too hard to go on. I feel like I can never make John happy or be the kind of wife he needs or wants.
John took Spencer and left after dinner and went to Kevin's house. I finished cleaning and went to bed- still hurt and upset about our fight.
30 March 1996- I got up at 6am and woke John up then went back to bed. He came into my room about 7 to apologize to me- I was still upset and told him that we had no kind of family life. We talked for awhile and somewhat resolved things- I was very emotional and was exhausted from the whole ordeal. Got up and took a bath. I began cleaning around 10am- cleaned downstairs then after lunch , I tackled the storage room on the carport. John came by and wanted me to go with him to Tanglewood to deliver a wedding. I did and we talked some. Came home and John napped while I finished cleaning the storage room. Spencer had gone with Joshua and Kevin earlier, so Joel, John and I went out for Chinese, We dropped Joel back off at house and John and I went to Trudy's and Kevin's house. Trudy and I played SCRABBLE (I won), then we all played SCATTEGORIES. On way home to T-ville we passed a truck that was badly weaving- obviously a drunk driver- as I watched I saw the driver lose control and run off the right side of the road and the truck flipped a couple of times. I saw someone being thrown out. I told John to turn around- when we got to the scene one man (passenger) was conscious and had been thrown out the back window into the truck bed. The driver had been thrown out into the ground into a ditch. His body was contorted and it appeared from the way he was laying that he had a broken neck. I could not detect any signs of life- no breathing- so I did not attempt to move him. I told John to go get help and I would stay with the accident. I talked with the passenger and he stated "William Hollis" was driving. He had some bad facial cuts, but nothing serious. John returned about 5 minutes later and the SGT Deaton with T-ville PD came. I stayed till SHP and wrote out a statement for them. The accident occured at around 12:40 hrs and we didn't get home till around 2am. Joel was still up and very worried about us. John and I each took a Lorazepam to sleep.
31 March 1996- Didn't get up till around 9am. I ate a quick breakfast and then went to church- John and Joel didn't make it. After church, John and I went to Winston Salem for an antique show then went to pick up Spencer at Kevin's house. I came home and ironed. Went to bed around 10pm.
1 April 1996- Usual day- worked on stats- so I could do evaluations. Stayed busy since B Squad was on duty. Paid bills- bed 9:45pm.
2 April 1996- Finished up on evaluations. Went to Police Club- it was good seeing some people again. Many people didn't recognize me with my wig. Also, went to see Debbie J in the hospital- she was doing good and was in good spirits.
3 April 1996- Worked on monthly report & evaluations. Had appt with Dr. Magrinant. I was late 'cuz I thought the appointment was 3:30 not 2:30! He said my bloodwork was very good and he said that indicates that I should recover quickly from the Bone Marrow Transplant. He also scheduled me for a CAT scan for the 15th of April.
4 April 1996- Had 3rd treatment. Peggy G and Ann P took me. This time they gave me Zophran in an IV. It made me dizzy. Came home and took more Zophran and a suppository and slept. Diedra brought dinner.
5 April 1996- Good Friday! Was feeling much better. Cleaned downstairs. Took a nap. Jackie and Laura brought over dinner. John and Spencer went to Kevin's house.
6 April 1996- did not get up until 8:30am. John had already gone to work. Cleaned upstairs- took a nap- Trudy and Kevin ate dinner with us. Sat around and talked till 11pm. I am feeling O.K.- took last of Zophran today.
7 April 1996- Easter!! Slept late. We forgot to set our clocks back- so we were about 20 minutes late to church. Started feeling bad at church- my stomach was queasy- came home and bundled up. It was so COLD!! I slept a good portion of afternoon. John and I went to grocery store and then we watched TV.
8 April 1996- Got up and took bath and ate breakfast. Tried to get ready for work, but was just unable to go. Went back to sleep and didn't get up till 9:30am. Rested, ironed and watched TV. John did major yard work. We all watched TV together. Bed at 10pm.
Slept till about 9am then got up and dusted and vacuumed downstairs. Then I rested some more. Was very rainy and dreary outside.
Read and did some praying- rested, but didn't really sleep.
John had to teach at Davidson so Spencer had me to himself- we read Goosebumps book. Went to bed around 9pm.
20 March 1996- Went back to work today- I seem to be over my last bout with chemotherapy. Did not get tired during the day but by 9pm, I was ready to crash.
Jimmy and Jerome were at house when I got home from work. Hadn't seen them in ages.
21 March 1996- Had staff meeting. Gary H took me out to lunch today- we had a nice visit. Was real tired after reading to Spencer, but got in bed and couldn't sleep. Had stomach cramps- woke up several times.
22 March 1996- My squad was back on duty today. Took distribution downtown and got to visit with a bunch of people. George H and Jim F came out to SS and visited with me for about 2 hrs. I didn't get much work done today, but enjoying visiting with people I hadn't got to see for awhile. Took Lorazapam to sleep.
23 March 1996- Drill- was late, but stayed at Armory while everybody else went to Butner to qualify. Was a long day. Came home and John and I went to a progressive dinner our Sunday School class had. It was enjoyable.
24 March 1996- Drill- This is the first time everybody saw my wig. They all said they liked it. Came home and walked dog- was very tired and tried to rest. John and I went to the store. Bed at 10pm.
25 March 1996- Got up and sent a Birthday e-mail gram to Lyn Nell. Typical Monday- very busy. Dale took me out to lunch at K & W today. Did two evaluations. After dinner, John started moving furniture, didn't get to bed until 10pm. Slept in master bedroom. Spencer woke me up with a cough at 1:40 and after getting up to give him medicine, I couldn't sleep so I went down to couch. Slept very little between 2:00-4:30am.
26 March 1996- Was really tired today, because I did not sleep well night before. Went to get blood work done today- talked to Valarie. She suggested maybe giving me a sedative next time to make me sleep first 24 hours. Came home and got my room cleaned so furniture can be moved in. John wasn't home.
27 March 1996- Was really tired today- it was hard to get up. This moving furniture, cleaning & stuff is really getting to me. Worked on time cards and monthly report. After dinner, John and Joel moved furniture into guest room- it looks real nice. I was exhausted when I went to bed as it was after 10pm.
28 March 1996- Was really tired today- all this mving and cleaning is killing me. The new bed in the guest room was very comfortable! Worked on evaluations at work- only have about four done. Was rainy and cold all day. Patsy called me and said she has some bills ready for me- it looks like about $500 so far- eek! After supper, we worked more on moving and cleaning- don't think it will ever end. Cindy brought me a dinner to substation- that was so thoughtful of her! *Found out Debbie J. has breast cancer! She already had lump removed, but will have more surgery next week. Poor girl- I think she's still in shock! Told her to call me if she has any questions.
29 March 1996- I took day off work so I could get the home staightened up- the upstairs is SO torn up from moving furniture. I cleaned all day one room at a time. Spencer came home and feel asleep in his room, so after cleaning John's room- I decide to get his room after dinner. I was under the impression all week that Spencer would be spending the night with Joshua. John came home and he was tired and got VERY angry about the hall and Spencer's room still in a mess. We had a knock down drag out fight- one of the worst we have had in our marriage- we were screaming and yelling at each other!! It was terrible!! I just wanted to die right then- it was just too hard to go on. I feel like I can never make John happy or be the kind of wife he needs or wants.
John took Spencer and left after dinner and went to Kevin's house. I finished cleaning and went to bed- still hurt and upset about our fight.
30 March 1996- I got up at 6am and woke John up then went back to bed. He came into my room about 7 to apologize to me- I was still upset and told him that we had no kind of family life. We talked for awhile and somewhat resolved things- I was very emotional and was exhausted from the whole ordeal. Got up and took a bath. I began cleaning around 10am- cleaned downstairs then after lunch , I tackled the storage room on the carport. John came by and wanted me to go with him to Tanglewood to deliver a wedding. I did and we talked some. Came home and John napped while I finished cleaning the storage room. Spencer had gone with Joshua and Kevin earlier, so Joel, John and I went out for Chinese, We dropped Joel back off at house and John and I went to Trudy's and Kevin's house. Trudy and I played SCRABBLE (I won), then we all played SCATTEGORIES. On way home to T-ville we passed a truck that was badly weaving- obviously a drunk driver- as I watched I saw the driver lose control and run off the right side of the road and the truck flipped a couple of times. I saw someone being thrown out. I told John to turn around- when we got to the scene one man (passenger) was conscious and had been thrown out the back window into the truck bed. The driver had been thrown out into the ground into a ditch. His body was contorted and it appeared from the way he was laying that he had a broken neck. I could not detect any signs of life- no breathing- so I did not attempt to move him. I told John to go get help and I would stay with the accident. I talked with the passenger and he stated "William Hollis" was driving. He had some bad facial cuts, but nothing serious. John returned about 5 minutes later and the SGT Deaton with T-ville PD came. I stayed till SHP and wrote out a statement for them. The accident occured at around 12:40 hrs and we didn't get home till around 2am. Joel was still up and very worried about us. John and I each took a Lorazepam to sleep.
31 March 1996- Didn't get up till around 9am. I ate a quick breakfast and then went to church- John and Joel didn't make it. After church, John and I went to Winston Salem for an antique show then went to pick up Spencer at Kevin's house. I came home and ironed. Went to bed around 10pm.
1 April 1996- Usual day- worked on stats- so I could do evaluations. Stayed busy since B Squad was on duty. Paid bills- bed 9:45pm.
2 April 1996- Finished up on evaluations. Went to Police Club- it was good seeing some people again. Many people didn't recognize me with my wig. Also, went to see Debbie J in the hospital- she was doing good and was in good spirits.
3 April 1996- Worked on monthly report & evaluations. Had appt with Dr. Magrinant. I was late 'cuz I thought the appointment was 3:30 not 2:30! He said my bloodwork was very good and he said that indicates that I should recover quickly from the Bone Marrow Transplant. He also scheduled me for a CAT scan for the 15th of April.
4 April 1996- Had 3rd treatment. Peggy G and Ann P took me. This time they gave me Zophran in an IV. It made me dizzy. Came home and took more Zophran and a suppository and slept. Diedra brought dinner.
5 April 1996- Good Friday! Was feeling much better. Cleaned downstairs. Took a nap. Jackie and Laura brought over dinner. John and Spencer went to Kevin's house.
6 April 1996- did not get up until 8:30am. John had already gone to work. Cleaned upstairs- took a nap- Trudy and Kevin ate dinner with us. Sat around and talked till 11pm. I am feeling O.K.- took last of Zophran today.
7 April 1996- Easter!! Slept late. We forgot to set our clocks back- so we were about 20 minutes late to church. Started feeling bad at church- my stomach was queasy- came home and bundled up. It was so COLD!! I slept a good portion of afternoon. John and I went to grocery store and then we watched TV.
8 April 1996- Got up and took bath and ate breakfast. Tried to get ready for work, but was just unable to go. Went back to sleep and didn't get up till 9:30am. Rested, ironed and watched TV. John did major yard work. We all watched TV together. Bed at 10pm.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Chapter 10 (Volume 2)
10 March 1996- I still have a slight sore throat and mouth sores!! What a bummer!
Went to drill, but was in a class all morning, so time went by quickly.
Came home and then John came home with Joshua and Spencer. Kevin and Trudy came over to visit. They stayed till after 11:00pm!! I enjoyed visiting, but really needed to get to bed. Got to bed about 11:40pm.
11 March 1996- Mouth sores are a real pain! I called Valarie and got her to call me in a prescription for Magic Mouthwash which should help.
Had lunch with Faye C today. We had a nice visit- met at Applebees on Wendover. I'm glad I can finally put a face with the name now.
It was crazy at work today- two more complaints came in- one on Miller and one on Church. Could never catch up with one of the complaintants. I am taking next 2 days off to make-up my last Guard Drill. I am not looking forward to Thursday and having to deal with the complaints!!
Drank a milkshake with Ensure for dinner- just couldn't eat anything with my sore mouth.
12 March 1996- Had to make up a drill day today. It was really a drag- I had to work with SSG Wray and he talked to me like I was a 10 year old!!
David L took me out to lunch. I dropped my car off to get it inspected.
I was incredibly TIRED today- and I just couldn't think very well- all I wanted to do was curl up and rest, but I couldn't!
John worked late- so I had to fix dinner for the kids.
My mouth is doing much better- the Magic Mouthwash helps a lot. Got to bed a little early 8:45pm.
13 March 1996- Made up another day at the Armory. I wasn't as tired today. The mouthwash has done wonders for the mouth sores- they are pretty much gone. My hair continues to fall out at an alarming rate! Everytime I comb it, more comes out.
I took Maxwell for a walk- so got a little exercise today.
I had to change my bandage, change caps and flush my port tonight which always takes awhile.
I finally got an e-mail letter from Sue M and a letter from Bruce!
14 March 1996- My squad was back to work. It was not a fun day as I had to deal with Miller's complaint- I talked to other driver and he stated that he did not feel Miller was rude or out of line in anyway. He did appropriately find her at fault. Anyway, I spoke with the complaintant and after explaining 20 times "why" according to traffic law, she was at fault- she still felt I was wrong. Finally, she ended up hanging up on me!! I told Lt Lunsford about it- just in case she calls and complains on me. It was a hectic day- I am almost looking forward to chemo tomorrow!!
Chaplain Boyd came by and I talked to him for about 40 minutes.
Came home and worked on cleaning the upstairs before treatment. Went to bed after 11pm.
15 March 1996- Got up around 5:30 and after I ate breakfast, I finished cleaning upstairs.
Dot came to take me to my treatment. I enjoyed talking with Valarie- she is the most positive part of my treatment.
Wrote Bruce letter and read magazines. I was there almost 3 hours. Came home and sent an e-mail letter to Sue.
I ate some soup- then tried to rest. I couldn't sleep. I got up about 5pm and vomited and now I feel better. I don't think any anti-nausea medicine does much for me.
Dot stayed and picked up Spencer and took him to stay with her for the weekend.
I ended up throwing up EVERYTHING I tried to eat or drink- even water. Finally, I called and talked to the doctor on call and he said to just eat ice chips and then take Lorazpam before I went to bed. I went to bed around 9:30 and slept well.
16 March 1996- Got up and took a Zophran, then had an english muffin. I just rested most of the day in John's room. Lying down seems to be the most comfortable position. I drank water- for lunch I had some frozen yogurt, then a little soup for dinner. Watched TV.
John picked up Spencer and went with Kevin to a circus in Winston Salem.
The biggest thing is the way my stomach feels and the enormous lack of energy I feel.
17 March 1996- Still under the weather. Got up and took a Zophran, then went back to bed. I got up later and I threw up the Zophran. I ate an english muffin and hot chocolate and then took another Zophran. Still feel bad- all I want to do is rest. I rested some- watched some old movies.
Had planned to iron clothes, but just don't have the strength to do it. John and I went to bed around 9:30- we each took a Lorazpam to sleep.
18 March 1996- Slept till close to 6am, then got children and John up.
Was not ready to go back to work yet- I am still recouperating.
I did fold clothes and ironed a mountain of clothes. Was exhausted when I finished- so slept until the kids got home.
This morning before John left for work, I decided that the hair must go. My hair consisted of large bald spots- it was really ugly and my hair "hurt" from being bundled up all the time. Plus the shed factor was driving me "crazy". So I decided to shave my head. I did the best I could and John helped me trim it up. I look like an alien, but my head is much more comfortable. At least now when I shed- there won't be much hair to shed!
I watched Gorgoyles TV show with Spencer, then fixed dinner. John ate a little later, as his stomach was acting up.
The rest of the evening- I again was pulled between Spencer wanting to play a game and John wanting me to watch TV- I managed to do both!
Went to bed around 9pm.
Went to drill, but was in a class all morning, so time went by quickly.
Came home and then John came home with Joshua and Spencer. Kevin and Trudy came over to visit. They stayed till after 11:00pm!! I enjoyed visiting, but really needed to get to bed. Got to bed about 11:40pm.
11 March 1996- Mouth sores are a real pain! I called Valarie and got her to call me in a prescription for Magic Mouthwash which should help.
Had lunch with Faye C today. We had a nice visit- met at Applebees on Wendover. I'm glad I can finally put a face with the name now.
It was crazy at work today- two more complaints came in- one on Miller and one on Church. Could never catch up with one of the complaintants. I am taking next 2 days off to make-up my last Guard Drill. I am not looking forward to Thursday and having to deal with the complaints!!
Drank a milkshake with Ensure for dinner- just couldn't eat anything with my sore mouth.
12 March 1996- Had to make up a drill day today. It was really a drag- I had to work with SSG Wray and he talked to me like I was a 10 year old!!
David L took me out to lunch. I dropped my car off to get it inspected.
I was incredibly TIRED today- and I just couldn't think very well- all I wanted to do was curl up and rest, but I couldn't!
John worked late- so I had to fix dinner for the kids.
My mouth is doing much better- the Magic Mouthwash helps a lot. Got to bed a little early 8:45pm.
13 March 1996- Made up another day at the Armory. I wasn't as tired today. The mouthwash has done wonders for the mouth sores- they are pretty much gone. My hair continues to fall out at an alarming rate! Everytime I comb it, more comes out.
I took Maxwell for a walk- so got a little exercise today.
I had to change my bandage, change caps and flush my port tonight which always takes awhile.
I finally got an e-mail letter from Sue M and a letter from Bruce!
14 March 1996- My squad was back to work. It was not a fun day as I had to deal with Miller's complaint- I talked to other driver and he stated that he did not feel Miller was rude or out of line in anyway. He did appropriately find her at fault. Anyway, I spoke with the complaintant and after explaining 20 times "why" according to traffic law, she was at fault- she still felt I was wrong. Finally, she ended up hanging up on me!! I told Lt Lunsford about it- just in case she calls and complains on me. It was a hectic day- I am almost looking forward to chemo tomorrow!!
Chaplain Boyd came by and I talked to him for about 40 minutes.
Came home and worked on cleaning the upstairs before treatment. Went to bed after 11pm.
15 March 1996- Got up around 5:30 and after I ate breakfast, I finished cleaning upstairs.
Dot came to take me to my treatment. I enjoyed talking with Valarie- she is the most positive part of my treatment.
Wrote Bruce letter and read magazines. I was there almost 3 hours. Came home and sent an e-mail letter to Sue.
I ate some soup- then tried to rest. I couldn't sleep. I got up about 5pm and vomited and now I feel better. I don't think any anti-nausea medicine does much for me.
Dot stayed and picked up Spencer and took him to stay with her for the weekend.
I ended up throwing up EVERYTHING I tried to eat or drink- even water. Finally, I called and talked to the doctor on call and he said to just eat ice chips and then take Lorazpam before I went to bed. I went to bed around 9:30 and slept well.
16 March 1996- Got up and took a Zophran, then had an english muffin. I just rested most of the day in John's room. Lying down seems to be the most comfortable position. I drank water- for lunch I had some frozen yogurt, then a little soup for dinner. Watched TV.
John picked up Spencer and went with Kevin to a circus in Winston Salem.
The biggest thing is the way my stomach feels and the enormous lack of energy I feel.
17 March 1996- Still under the weather. Got up and took a Zophran, then went back to bed. I got up later and I threw up the Zophran. I ate an english muffin and hot chocolate and then took another Zophran. Still feel bad- all I want to do is rest. I rested some- watched some old movies.
Had planned to iron clothes, but just don't have the strength to do it. John and I went to bed around 9:30- we each took a Lorazpam to sleep.
18 March 1996- Slept till close to 6am, then got children and John up.
Was not ready to go back to work yet- I am still recouperating.
I did fold clothes and ironed a mountain of clothes. Was exhausted when I finished- so slept until the kids got home.
This morning before John left for work, I decided that the hair must go. My hair consisted of large bald spots- it was really ugly and my hair "hurt" from being bundled up all the time. Plus the shed factor was driving me "crazy". So I decided to shave my head. I did the best I could and John helped me trim it up. I look like an alien, but my head is much more comfortable. At least now when I shed- there won't be much hair to shed!
I watched Gorgoyles TV show with Spencer, then fixed dinner. John ate a little later, as his stomach was acting up.
The rest of the evening- I again was pulled between Spencer wanting to play a game and John wanting me to watch TV- I managed to do both!
Went to bed around 9pm.
Chapter 9 (Volume 2)
27 February 1996- Got up about 6am and took a bath and washed hair- I finally felt clean!
My stomach was a little uneasy, but better than the day before. I ate some cereal, then decided I would "bite the bullet" and wear my wig! My hair looked so bad- I didn't have much of a choice.
I was late getting to work because I had to fiddle with styling my hair. I got to work and Dale was coming off of a bad cold! Just what I need to catch!!
I tried drinking a coke and taking my vitamins, but it didn't take long for the vitamins to come up.
Had an appointment at noon with Valarie at oncologist's office. She showed me how to clean and change the dressing on the porta-cath.
Came back to SS and ate lunch and just piddled around. LT and CPT came out for afternoon line-up.
No one made any comment about my hair or hair color. The CPT did say his sister had a wig the same color.
Went home and was feeling good, fixed dinner for kids and me. John came home from bridal appointments and I fed him.
After dinner, John, Spencer and I watched TV in John's room.
Spencer was being very demanding about my attention. I put him to bed once, then wrote an e-mail letter to Lyn Nell. Spencer was still up so he laid down with me for a few minutes.
I tossed and turned and couldn't sleep so I took a Lorazpam.
28 February 1996- Dale had a busy day at work- I wasn't much help to him. He is doing an excellent job!!
I left for about an hour- got stamps- got paperwork to get my windshield fixed- went to credit union and bank, then went by the pharmacy.
Kinard's still doesn't have all my medical supplies, but they said they should have them by 5:00pm.
Came by at 5:00pm after work and Kinard's still doesn't have all my supplies!! This is getting frustrating!
At around 6 pm- I finally got my medicine and medical supplies. Didn't get home till after 6:30pm.
I fixed dinner for me and boys. John didn't get home till 8pm- I fixed him dinner then. He was in a pretty "blue mood". I certainly understand that he is in a frustrating position. He desperately needs a dedicated designer who can really take some of the load off of him. I will continue to pray for such a person to come along.
I had to return some phone calls- just a really blah evening. I want to spend more time with John, but still feel pulled between John and Spencer- as they are both vieing for my attention. Was very tired then I went to bed after cleaning my porta-cath.
29 February 1996- John was still in a "MOOD" this morning. Before I went to work, we talked about setting the kids straight and having a family meeting to lay out what we expect. I felt a little better about the family situation before leaving for work.
Routine day- Gary called me to ask me how I was doing- it was good talking to him.
Came home and fixed dinner, dropped Joel at library, then picked up a few things at store.
John was home when I got home, he was upstairs watching TV. He was in a very quiet glum "BLUE" mood. Finances are his main worry- I know how he feels- I got paid today (NO EXTRA DUTY). Money and bills will be really rough to pay! I don't know what I am going to do!
1 March 1996- Got to work on time for a change. Jim Gunn called me and he asked me to lunch. Worked a monthly report all day, then did individual stats.
Jim and I went to Deliworks for lunch. We had a good talk- took about an hour and a half lunch.
Came home and checked prodigy- I got a letter from Lyn Nell!
At dinner, John and I laid down law to kids about what we expect of them and what their punishment will be. Joel did dishes and made banana bread cup cakes.
After dinner, I went up and typed a long e-mail letter to Lyn Nell. Cindy called John and they talked a long time.
Watched 20/20, then read some and went to bed.
2 March 1996- Got up around 8am. After breakfast- got boys up.
Started cleaning upstairs. At noon, I had to take Spencer to get Josh a birthday present. We all went over to Joshua's house and visited for a couple hours. Had a good time.
Dropped kids off at house and John and I went over to Jim and Roger's to visit. Stayed till after 8pm- came home and watched TV, went to bed around 11pm.
3 March 1996- Got up early- took bath, had devotions and stuff before I got up rest of family.
Went to church. After church, Dot came over and we went to Women's Club for lunch- it was good! Joel went with Michael to deliver phone books, but he returned by 3:00pm.
Joel showed me how to make cards on the computer.
Did some light cleaning- fixed boys dinner. Played PayDay with Spencer.
Joel was tired and crashed early.
John had a meeting, then went to Kevin's house- we were all asleep by the time he got home.
4 March 1996- Monday- so back to work! Had an appointment with Dr. Magrinant today. They pricked my finger again to take blood. I can't believe I have a port so I don't have to get shots and they still prick my finger!! Why?
I told Dr. Magrinant that I had quite a bit of nausea with my first treatment- so he prescribed Zophran. Valarie flushed my port and changed the caps for me (they gave me the wrong type of cap!)
My next chemo is scheduled for 10:00 on the 15th with follow up on the 26th.
Went by Kinard's and took caps back. The pharmacist assured me that she would get the heparin syringes in by Wednesday.
Came home- Janet Smith brought dinner by tonight. John was home and kind of in a cleaning frenzy.
We ate, then Spencer and I went to talent show at his school.
5 March 1996- Went to lunch with Cindy S today. Went to Ham's and had a nice visit.
After dinner I wrote to Lyn Nell, then played a short game of PayDay with Spencer.
6 March 1996- Went to see Dr. Leone. He changed the bandage. No problems. I was able to get the Heparin syringes from Kinard Drugs.
7 March 1996- Went to Joy E's mother's funeral in Reidsville with Susan.
Martha and Gary came out to SS to see me at lunch, but I couldn't visit much since I was leaving to go to the funeral.
Got my drill check today, but since I only got paid for the one drill- it didn't go too far with paying the bills. I was very stressed about money.
8 March 1996- Did two evaluations on rookies and served them. SGT David wanted me to help him with a display he is working on- so I swallowed my pride and went downtown to PD! Everyone complimented me on my wig! I was real self conscious about having to see people as I didn't want to shock them too much.
Kevin invited John and Spencer over, so I stayed home and ironed clothes and wrote thank you notes!!
9 March 1996- Had drill- didn't wear my wig- everyone said they were glad to see me.
Woke up with sore throat- also am getting mouth sores. My gums and teeth hurt too! I felt lousy, but when I got home, John was cleaning- so I cleaned downstairs while he cleaned kitchen- went to bed around 9pm.
My stomach was a little uneasy, but better than the day before. I ate some cereal, then decided I would "bite the bullet" and wear my wig! My hair looked so bad- I didn't have much of a choice.
I was late getting to work because I had to fiddle with styling my hair. I got to work and Dale was coming off of a bad cold! Just what I need to catch!!
I tried drinking a coke and taking my vitamins, but it didn't take long for the vitamins to come up.
Had an appointment at noon with Valarie at oncologist's office. She showed me how to clean and change the dressing on the porta-cath.
Came back to SS and ate lunch and just piddled around. LT and CPT came out for afternoon line-up.
No one made any comment about my hair or hair color. The CPT did say his sister had a wig the same color.
Went home and was feeling good, fixed dinner for kids and me. John came home from bridal appointments and I fed him.
After dinner, John, Spencer and I watched TV in John's room.
Spencer was being very demanding about my attention. I put him to bed once, then wrote an e-mail letter to Lyn Nell. Spencer was still up so he laid down with me for a few minutes.
I tossed and turned and couldn't sleep so I took a Lorazpam.
28 February 1996- Dale had a busy day at work- I wasn't much help to him. He is doing an excellent job!!
I left for about an hour- got stamps- got paperwork to get my windshield fixed- went to credit union and bank, then went by the pharmacy.
Kinard's still doesn't have all my medical supplies, but they said they should have them by 5:00pm.
Came by at 5:00pm after work and Kinard's still doesn't have all my supplies!! This is getting frustrating!
At around 6 pm- I finally got my medicine and medical supplies. Didn't get home till after 6:30pm.
I fixed dinner for me and boys. John didn't get home till 8pm- I fixed him dinner then. He was in a pretty "blue mood". I certainly understand that he is in a frustrating position. He desperately needs a dedicated designer who can really take some of the load off of him. I will continue to pray for such a person to come along.
I had to return some phone calls- just a really blah evening. I want to spend more time with John, but still feel pulled between John and Spencer- as they are both vieing for my attention. Was very tired then I went to bed after cleaning my porta-cath.
29 February 1996- John was still in a "MOOD" this morning. Before I went to work, we talked about setting the kids straight and having a family meeting to lay out what we expect. I felt a little better about the family situation before leaving for work.
Routine day- Gary called me to ask me how I was doing- it was good talking to him.
Came home and fixed dinner, dropped Joel at library, then picked up a few things at store.
John was home when I got home, he was upstairs watching TV. He was in a very quiet glum "BLUE" mood. Finances are his main worry- I know how he feels- I got paid today (NO EXTRA DUTY). Money and bills will be really rough to pay! I don't know what I am going to do!
1 March 1996- Got to work on time for a change. Jim Gunn called me and he asked me to lunch. Worked a monthly report all day, then did individual stats.
Jim and I went to Deliworks for lunch. We had a good talk- took about an hour and a half lunch.
Came home and checked prodigy- I got a letter from Lyn Nell!
At dinner, John and I laid down law to kids about what we expect of them and what their punishment will be. Joel did dishes and made banana bread cup cakes.
After dinner, I went up and typed a long e-mail letter to Lyn Nell. Cindy called John and they talked a long time.
Watched 20/20, then read some and went to bed.
2 March 1996- Got up around 8am. After breakfast- got boys up.
Started cleaning upstairs. At noon, I had to take Spencer to get Josh a birthday present. We all went over to Joshua's house and visited for a couple hours. Had a good time.
Dropped kids off at house and John and I went over to Jim and Roger's to visit. Stayed till after 8pm- came home and watched TV, went to bed around 11pm.
3 March 1996- Got up early- took bath, had devotions and stuff before I got up rest of family.
Went to church. After church, Dot came over and we went to Women's Club for lunch- it was good! Joel went with Michael to deliver phone books, but he returned by 3:00pm.
Joel showed me how to make cards on the computer.
Did some light cleaning- fixed boys dinner. Played PayDay with Spencer.
Joel was tired and crashed early.
John had a meeting, then went to Kevin's house- we were all asleep by the time he got home.
4 March 1996- Monday- so back to work! Had an appointment with Dr. Magrinant today. They pricked my finger again to take blood. I can't believe I have a port so I don't have to get shots and they still prick my finger!! Why?
I told Dr. Magrinant that I had quite a bit of nausea with my first treatment- so he prescribed Zophran. Valarie flushed my port and changed the caps for me (they gave me the wrong type of cap!)
My next chemo is scheduled for 10:00 on the 15th with follow up on the 26th.
Went by Kinard's and took caps back. The pharmacist assured me that she would get the heparin syringes in by Wednesday.
Came home- Janet Smith brought dinner by tonight. John was home and kind of in a cleaning frenzy.
We ate, then Spencer and I went to talent show at his school.
5 March 1996- Went to lunch with Cindy S today. Went to Ham's and had a nice visit.
After dinner I wrote to Lyn Nell, then played a short game of PayDay with Spencer.
6 March 1996- Went to see Dr. Leone. He changed the bandage. No problems. I was able to get the Heparin syringes from Kinard Drugs.
7 March 1996- Went to Joy E's mother's funeral in Reidsville with Susan.
Martha and Gary came out to SS to see me at lunch, but I couldn't visit much since I was leaving to go to the funeral.
Got my drill check today, but since I only got paid for the one drill- it didn't go too far with paying the bills. I was very stressed about money.
8 March 1996- Did two evaluations on rookies and served them. SGT David wanted me to help him with a display he is working on- so I swallowed my pride and went downtown to PD! Everyone complimented me on my wig! I was real self conscious about having to see people as I didn't want to shock them too much.
Kevin invited John and Spencer over, so I stayed home and ironed clothes and wrote thank you notes!!
9 March 1996- Had drill- didn't wear my wig- everyone said they were glad to see me.
Woke up with sore throat- also am getting mouth sores. My gums and teeth hurt too! I felt lousy, but when I got home, John was cleaning- so I cleaned downstairs while he cleaned kitchen- went to bed around 9pm.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Chapter 8 (Volume 2)
21 February 1996- Today was sugery. I couldn't eat or drink anything that morning. John took me to the hospital around 10:00am.
I had to take off all my clothes and put on a hospital gown and socks. About 11:00am I walked across the hall to surgery. I went to the bathroom and then laid down on a gurney. The anethesiologists came and started an IV and gave me a sedative. Dr.Leone was late to surgery. While I was waiting, I fell asleep. Then they wheeled me into the operating room- it was cold, but they covered me up pretty well. They put an oxygen mask over my face. For the rest of surgery, I was kind of in and out- I would hear what was going on then fade out again. I guess surgery lasted over an hour. They put a 3 port Hickman catheter in my right chest.
They wheeled me into the recovery room and took a chest x-ray. I slowly started to come around. They gave me a coke and then they brought my clothes and the nurses helped me get dressed.
I spoke to Dr. Leone a minute- I really like him- he did a good job. John brought the car around to the patient entrance as I got dressed.
We didn't get home until about 3:30 PM. I propped myself up in the sitting room with pillows. Since I hadn't eaten all day- I ate breakfast and took 1 pain capsule.
Spencer came home and we played war, but I really got sleepy and slept for awhile.
Patsy called me to give me some good news. BCBS is working with Duke and it looks like the whole medical bill both here and at Duke will only run me around $2,000. The whole bill will probably be a quarter of a million- so my cost is a drop in the bucket. The bad news is that BCBS won't cover a wig.
John had a wedding appt at his office. He didn't get back until 8PM. He made me some soup and cheese bread. He took Spencer and went and got hamburgers for them.
I went to bed around 10:30.
22 February 1996- Woke up family, then went back to bed and didn't get up until everyone had left.
I am still sore, but I am able to move my right arm better. I did not take a shower, but just got dressed.
I managed to wash some clothes and ironed.
I was very tired and slept for a couple of hours. Then John came home and told me that I needed to get my hair cut real short. So I made an appointment at Mane Event and got my hair cut real short.
After dinner we all went to Oak Hollow Mall to go to Chic Wig. After trying on several wigs- John had me try on the auburn one and believe it or not it really looked the most believable. So crazy as it seems- I did get the auburn one. I'm just scared to death to wear it, because I don't do change well, but I will just have to deal with it.
23 February 1996- D-Day- My first chemotherapy treatment today.
I got up and managed to take a bath and wash my hair in the bathtub. With this porta-cath, I may not be able to take a shower for months!
Mom and Dad picked me up at 9:00. We drove to Greensboro and I went by "Great Harvest" to get some bread. It wasn't ready yet so I paid for it and mom picked it up later.
I just had mom drop me off for my treatment. They first pricked my finger and liked to never got any blood. Then Valarie came and got me and went over all the side effects and explained the procedure.
She administered each of the 4 drugs separately, just in case I had a reaction to them. She gave me an anti-nausea drug and then the A and C. I just lounged in the chair and listened to tapes- it took about 3 hours. Then mom picked me up and drove me home.
On the way home, mom insisted that I drink juice so I did.
I came home and took an anti-nausea pill, then ate some cheese bread and fixed John some lunch.
Then I laid down and tried to rest but couldn't. Marilyn B called and talked. Apparently she had found out from somebody about me!
Debbie M stopped by and visited. I had gotten up and I was starting to feel really lousy. Kevin and Joshua came in and as Joel was introducing Debbie and Kevin, I made a mad dash for the bathroom and up-chucked volumes!! Apparently the juice was just too acidic and didn't agree with me. I felt much better after vomiting.
I just sat and watched TV in the sitting room all evening. John finally came home between 8-9PM and I sent him to get some chicken noodle soup as I felt I could probably handle that. It tasted good!
Joel and John made up my bed upstairs and about 10:30, I crashed.
24 February 1996- Didn't get up until after 8AM- John had already left. I am supposed to have drill today, but I called MSG Tolley earlier this week and explained about my chemo and said I may or may not make it- so at least they won't be looking for me.
I took it easy today, but also did some work. I cleaned the refrigerator and kitchen as well as the downstairs. Then I took a nap.
I got several phone calls- my friends from the Armory called, Jim Gunn called and Cindy (John's sister) called.
I did get outside a little- it was a beautiful day. Spencer and I walked up to the bakery, but he was ticked because they didn't have anything he wanted. I picked up my laundry at the cleaners.
Joel delivered phone books all afternoon and Spencer played upstairs so I could rest.
After dinner, Joel, Spencer and I watched the movie, "The Coneheads", then went to bed. John had gone to Roger's birthday party at Jim M's.
25 February 1996- Felt really lousy today- still have a queasy stomach. I'm glad I didn't tell them at the Armory that I would be coming in today, because I wouldn't have made it.
John had a big wedding, so he was gone all day. I sent the boys to Sunday School, then they had lunch at the church and worked on Easter banners.
I felt so lousy all day- very sick to my stomach, it seems like everything seemed to come back up!
I kept trying to get the boys to clean up and do their chores, but I really couldn't follow through with making sure they did what they were supposed to, because I was just so sick.
John finally came home about 9PM and he really hit the ceiling when he found bikes in driveway, lights left on, kitchen a mess, etc. John was about as mad as I have ever seen him. I was afraid he would have a heart attack or stroke- he was SO mad. It upset me, but I know he wasn't mad at me, but I felt bad, because I wasn't able to keep the house clean-
After his rath subsided, Penny H came by and brought us a whole meal. John hadn't eaten- so he finally got to eat something. We both took a Lorazapam before we went to bed.
26 February 1996- I still feel lousy- my stomach just won't settle down.
I called "Advance Care" that was supposed to come out and teach me how to clean and maintain my catheter. I called Valarie at Dr. Magrinant's office and told her of my nausea and vomiting. She told me that my insurance wouldn't pay for the "Advance Care", but that if I went to the office tomorrow she would teach me how to change and maintain my catheter. She also told me to take a Lorazapam and just sleep to settle my stomach.
I took her advice and slept on John's bed all afternoon. I kept down soup that I had for dinner and went to bed around 9PM.
I had to take off all my clothes and put on a hospital gown and socks. About 11:00am I walked across the hall to surgery. I went to the bathroom and then laid down on a gurney. The anethesiologists came and started an IV and gave me a sedative. Dr.Leone was late to surgery. While I was waiting, I fell asleep. Then they wheeled me into the operating room- it was cold, but they covered me up pretty well. They put an oxygen mask over my face. For the rest of surgery, I was kind of in and out- I would hear what was going on then fade out again. I guess surgery lasted over an hour. They put a 3 port Hickman catheter in my right chest.
They wheeled me into the recovery room and took a chest x-ray. I slowly started to come around. They gave me a coke and then they brought my clothes and the nurses helped me get dressed.
I spoke to Dr. Leone a minute- I really like him- he did a good job. John brought the car around to the patient entrance as I got dressed.
We didn't get home until about 3:30 PM. I propped myself up in the sitting room with pillows. Since I hadn't eaten all day- I ate breakfast and took 1 pain capsule.
Spencer came home and we played war, but I really got sleepy and slept for awhile.
Patsy called me to give me some good news. BCBS is working with Duke and it looks like the whole medical bill both here and at Duke will only run me around $2,000. The whole bill will probably be a quarter of a million- so my cost is a drop in the bucket. The bad news is that BCBS won't cover a wig.
John had a wedding appt at his office. He didn't get back until 8PM. He made me some soup and cheese bread. He took Spencer and went and got hamburgers for them.
I went to bed around 10:30.
22 February 1996- Woke up family, then went back to bed and didn't get up until everyone had left.
I am still sore, but I am able to move my right arm better. I did not take a shower, but just got dressed.
I managed to wash some clothes and ironed.
I was very tired and slept for a couple of hours. Then John came home and told me that I needed to get my hair cut real short. So I made an appointment at Mane Event and got my hair cut real short.
After dinner we all went to Oak Hollow Mall to go to Chic Wig. After trying on several wigs- John had me try on the auburn one and believe it or not it really looked the most believable. So crazy as it seems- I did get the auburn one. I'm just scared to death to wear it, because I don't do change well, but I will just have to deal with it.
23 February 1996- D-Day- My first chemotherapy treatment today.
I got up and managed to take a bath and wash my hair in the bathtub. With this porta-cath, I may not be able to take a shower for months!
Mom and Dad picked me up at 9:00. We drove to Greensboro and I went by "Great Harvest" to get some bread. It wasn't ready yet so I paid for it and mom picked it up later.
I just had mom drop me off for my treatment. They first pricked my finger and liked to never got any blood. Then Valarie came and got me and went over all the side effects and explained the procedure.
She administered each of the 4 drugs separately, just in case I had a reaction to them. She gave me an anti-nausea drug and then the A and C. I just lounged in the chair and listened to tapes- it took about 3 hours. Then mom picked me up and drove me home.
On the way home, mom insisted that I drink juice so I did.
I came home and took an anti-nausea pill, then ate some cheese bread and fixed John some lunch.
Then I laid down and tried to rest but couldn't. Marilyn B called and talked. Apparently she had found out from somebody about me!
Debbie M stopped by and visited. I had gotten up and I was starting to feel really lousy. Kevin and Joshua came in and as Joel was introducing Debbie and Kevin, I made a mad dash for the bathroom and up-chucked volumes!! Apparently the juice was just too acidic and didn't agree with me. I felt much better after vomiting.
I just sat and watched TV in the sitting room all evening. John finally came home between 8-9PM and I sent him to get some chicken noodle soup as I felt I could probably handle that. It tasted good!
Joel and John made up my bed upstairs and about 10:30, I crashed.
24 February 1996- Didn't get up until after 8AM- John had already left. I am supposed to have drill today, but I called MSG Tolley earlier this week and explained about my chemo and said I may or may not make it- so at least they won't be looking for me.
I took it easy today, but also did some work. I cleaned the refrigerator and kitchen as well as the downstairs. Then I took a nap.
I got several phone calls- my friends from the Armory called, Jim Gunn called and Cindy (John's sister) called.
I did get outside a little- it was a beautiful day. Spencer and I walked up to the bakery, but he was ticked because they didn't have anything he wanted. I picked up my laundry at the cleaners.
Joel delivered phone books all afternoon and Spencer played upstairs so I could rest.
After dinner, Joel, Spencer and I watched the movie, "The Coneheads", then went to bed. John had gone to Roger's birthday party at Jim M's.
25 February 1996- Felt really lousy today- still have a queasy stomach. I'm glad I didn't tell them at the Armory that I would be coming in today, because I wouldn't have made it.
John had a big wedding, so he was gone all day. I sent the boys to Sunday School, then they had lunch at the church and worked on Easter banners.
I felt so lousy all day- very sick to my stomach, it seems like everything seemed to come back up!
I kept trying to get the boys to clean up and do their chores, but I really couldn't follow through with making sure they did what they were supposed to, because I was just so sick.
John finally came home about 9PM and he really hit the ceiling when he found bikes in driveway, lights left on, kitchen a mess, etc. John was about as mad as I have ever seen him. I was afraid he would have a heart attack or stroke- he was SO mad. It upset me, but I know he wasn't mad at me, but I felt bad, because I wasn't able to keep the house clean-
After his rath subsided, Penny H came by and brought us a whole meal. John hadn't eaten- so he finally got to eat something. We both took a Lorazapam before we went to bed.
26 February 1996- I still feel lousy- my stomach just won't settle down.
I called "Advance Care" that was supposed to come out and teach me how to clean and maintain my catheter. I called Valarie at Dr. Magrinant's office and told her of my nausea and vomiting. She told me that my insurance wouldn't pay for the "Advance Care", but that if I went to the office tomorrow she would teach me how to change and maintain my catheter. She also told me to take a Lorazapam and just sleep to settle my stomach.
I took her advice and slept on John's bed all afternoon. I kept down soup that I had for dinner and went to bed around 9PM.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Chapter 7 (Volume 2)
15 Feb 1996- Rather ho-hum day. Read reports mostly all day.
In PM I went by my parents house- mom wasn't home, but dad seemed much better than I have seen him in a long time. I told him about my cancer- he seemed to take it pretty well.
I went downtown to PD- while there I talked to MANY people. I found out CPT Stewart's grandson has leukemia and then I ran into him in the hall and asked him about it. He said his grandson is doing great and he was real encouraging. After talking with him I realize I have got to get my family into some sort of support group.
When I came home today- Spencer was in the den eating cheese and crackers, so I let him know how much I appreciated that. It was all downhill from there! Spencer is hurt so easily and he seems to particularly lash out at me. Everything I said to him- he was resistant and defiant! John had a meeting after work and by the time he came home, I was in tears- very upset by Spencer's behavior!!
I had to fold and iron clothes- which of course Spencer didn't understand. John wanted me to watch TV with him and of course Spencer wanted me to spend time with him. I often feel like a YO YO between them as they both vie for my attention.
This family needs couseling badly as we are very fragmented and dysfunctional!
16 Feb 1996- Today, I was very surprised to wake up to impending snow. On the news, they were announcing school delays. As I left Thomasville, it was just beginning to snow, but by the time I got to Greensboro, it had already been snowing.
My biggest fear was that my appointment with Dr. Magrinant would be cancelled, but fortunately, it was not. John met me at his office. We had to wait almost an hour to get seen.
Dr. Magrinant said I would get 4 treatments (outpatient chemo), one treatment every 3 weeks. I then set up an appointment to get a Hickman Port surgically installed with Dr. Leone on Wednesday. On Friday, 23rd- I will have my first chemo treatment.
John took me to lunch after my appointment (we ate chinese). Then I took him back to his van and I went to the PD. I spent probably 1 1/2 hours with Patsy- I am so glad to have her working for me on my insurance on this illness. She is going to check with Duke for me about medical costs. She has really been SUPER!!
John and Spencer went to visit with Kevin and Josh- I met them as we passed in the driveway. Spencer made John stop so he could give me a kiss! I cleaned the upstairs and actually got Joel to help me!
17 Feb 1996- I got up early and took Joel to school for a field trip, but after waiting a half hour, the teacher never showed up!
Came home and folded clothes, made up beds. Then getting frustrated at the kids for not listening to me- I left for awhile to get prescriptions filled. I also went back to K-Mart and bought a pair of black pants. I looked for some blouses to go with my navy pants, but didn't find any.
Came home and cleaned downstairs, then went and got a video for kids.
After dinner, I went with John to arrange flowers around a wedding cake at Emorywood Country Club.
Came home and watched TV, but there was nothing good on- so I went to bed around 9:30!
18 Feb 1996- Sunday- got up about 6:18 and put on a roast, then took a shower.
I was reading an article in "Better Homes & Gardens" about menopause and osteoporosis- I am really scared about possible heart damage and what kind of shape my body will be in after all this stuff is over with. I just pray that I won't be a "little old lady", but will be able to get back into some kind of decent physical condition again. I desire more than ever to really hike the Appalachian Trail- it is a goal for me to strive toward. After all this treatment, it will seem like a piece of cake in comparison!
Went to church, then fixed Sunday dinner, Dot came over and ate with us. After lunch I took Maxwell for a long walk, then folded and ironed clothes while I watched a movie.
Kevin and Joshua came over and spent most of the afternoon. Kevin was loading stuff on computer for John.
I was experiencing some major discomfort and pain. I took 1 pain pill and then turned in early and took a Lorazipam. Hope I will be able to sleep.
19 Feb 1996- I felt better when I got up this morning- no pain.
Had staff meeting at substation for 1/2 day. I made some calls reference where to get a wig. I talked to one lady and her sister who recommended Chic Wig at Oak Hollow Mall.
I went by mom's house and took a pair of pants by for her to hem.
After leftovers, John, Spencer and I went to Oak Hollow Mall to look at wigs. Joel went to scouts. I finally found two wigs that were "believable", but they did not have them in my color. The color I tried on was a reddish auburn color. John loved it, but I am just not ready to be a redhead.
I got e-mail today from both Lyn and Sue. I sent Sue an e-mail letter- first one I have done- hope she gets it OK! She sent it several days ago, so I hope she hasn't given up receiving mail from me. I will write Lyn tonight.
Got to bed about 10:45PM- Late!! Am really tired!
20 Feb 1996- Had to have some pre-op lab work done. I went in and gave the lady my insurance card and she asked me how much my insurance company paid and I said I thought it was 85%. She quickly did some figuring and told me I owed $440.00 that needed to be paid up front. I about choked. She asked me if I could pay it now and I said no. Then she asked if I could pay $100 and I again said "no". I was about in tears as I knew if they were going to make me pay up front on any of the medical procedures- I wouldn't be able to have any of them done. The lady just wrote down- "payments will be worked out". I had blood taken, EKG, and gave a urine specimen.
I then went down to PD to get the mail. I went up to see Patsy, but she was in a meeting. I ran into Sue while at the PD, she gave me a big hug and said she had sent me a card (I got the card today). Patsy called and said she had been checking with Duke but needed to check with the BCBS people to get some answers.
Went back to substation, but didn't really do anything the rest of the day. I did talk to Faye and filled her in on what my protocol is. She answered a lot of questions that I had.
I stopped by my mom's house on the way home and picked up some pants she had hemmed for me.
Came home and went to the library then came home and fixed dinner.
After getting kids to bed, I sent an e-mail letter to Lyn Nell.
In PM I went by my parents house- mom wasn't home, but dad seemed much better than I have seen him in a long time. I told him about my cancer- he seemed to take it pretty well.
I went downtown to PD- while there I talked to MANY people. I found out CPT Stewart's grandson has leukemia and then I ran into him in the hall and asked him about it. He said his grandson is doing great and he was real encouraging. After talking with him I realize I have got to get my family into some sort of support group.
When I came home today- Spencer was in the den eating cheese and crackers, so I let him know how much I appreciated that. It was all downhill from there! Spencer is hurt so easily and he seems to particularly lash out at me. Everything I said to him- he was resistant and defiant! John had a meeting after work and by the time he came home, I was in tears- very upset by Spencer's behavior!!
I had to fold and iron clothes- which of course Spencer didn't understand. John wanted me to watch TV with him and of course Spencer wanted me to spend time with him. I often feel like a YO YO between them as they both vie for my attention.
This family needs couseling badly as we are very fragmented and dysfunctional!
16 Feb 1996- Today, I was very surprised to wake up to impending snow. On the news, they were announcing school delays. As I left Thomasville, it was just beginning to snow, but by the time I got to Greensboro, it had already been snowing.
My biggest fear was that my appointment with Dr. Magrinant would be cancelled, but fortunately, it was not. John met me at his office. We had to wait almost an hour to get seen.
Dr. Magrinant said I would get 4 treatments (outpatient chemo), one treatment every 3 weeks. I then set up an appointment to get a Hickman Port surgically installed with Dr. Leone on Wednesday. On Friday, 23rd- I will have my first chemo treatment.
John took me to lunch after my appointment (we ate chinese). Then I took him back to his van and I went to the PD. I spent probably 1 1/2 hours with Patsy- I am so glad to have her working for me on my insurance on this illness. She is going to check with Duke for me about medical costs. She has really been SUPER!!
John and Spencer went to visit with Kevin and Josh- I met them as we passed in the driveway. Spencer made John stop so he could give me a kiss! I cleaned the upstairs and actually got Joel to help me!
17 Feb 1996- I got up early and took Joel to school for a field trip, but after waiting a half hour, the teacher never showed up!
Came home and folded clothes, made up beds. Then getting frustrated at the kids for not listening to me- I left for awhile to get prescriptions filled. I also went back to K-Mart and bought a pair of black pants. I looked for some blouses to go with my navy pants, but didn't find any.
Came home and cleaned downstairs, then went and got a video for kids.
After dinner, I went with John to arrange flowers around a wedding cake at Emorywood Country Club.
Came home and watched TV, but there was nothing good on- so I went to bed around 9:30!
18 Feb 1996- Sunday- got up about 6:18 and put on a roast, then took a shower.
I was reading an article in "Better Homes & Gardens" about menopause and osteoporosis- I am really scared about possible heart damage and what kind of shape my body will be in after all this stuff is over with. I just pray that I won't be a "little old lady", but will be able to get back into some kind of decent physical condition again. I desire more than ever to really hike the Appalachian Trail- it is a goal for me to strive toward. After all this treatment, it will seem like a piece of cake in comparison!
Went to church, then fixed Sunday dinner, Dot came over and ate with us. After lunch I took Maxwell for a long walk, then folded and ironed clothes while I watched a movie.
Kevin and Joshua came over and spent most of the afternoon. Kevin was loading stuff on computer for John.
I was experiencing some major discomfort and pain. I took 1 pain pill and then turned in early and took a Lorazipam. Hope I will be able to sleep.
19 Feb 1996- I felt better when I got up this morning- no pain.
Had staff meeting at substation for 1/2 day. I made some calls reference where to get a wig. I talked to one lady and her sister who recommended Chic Wig at Oak Hollow Mall.
I went by mom's house and took a pair of pants by for her to hem.
After leftovers, John, Spencer and I went to Oak Hollow Mall to look at wigs. Joel went to scouts. I finally found two wigs that were "believable", but they did not have them in my color. The color I tried on was a reddish auburn color. John loved it, but I am just not ready to be a redhead.
I got e-mail today from both Lyn and Sue. I sent Sue an e-mail letter- first one I have done- hope she gets it OK! She sent it several days ago, so I hope she hasn't given up receiving mail from me. I will write Lyn tonight.
Got to bed about 10:45PM- Late!! Am really tired!
20 Feb 1996- Had to have some pre-op lab work done. I went in and gave the lady my insurance card and she asked me how much my insurance company paid and I said I thought it was 85%. She quickly did some figuring and told me I owed $440.00 that needed to be paid up front. I about choked. She asked me if I could pay it now and I said no. Then she asked if I could pay $100 and I again said "no". I was about in tears as I knew if they were going to make me pay up front on any of the medical procedures- I wouldn't be able to have any of them done. The lady just wrote down- "payments will be worked out". I had blood taken, EKG, and gave a urine specimen.
I then went down to PD to get the mail. I went up to see Patsy, but she was in a meeting. I ran into Sue while at the PD, she gave me a big hug and said she had sent me a card (I got the card today). Patsy called and said she had been checking with Duke but needed to check with the BCBS people to get some answers.
Went back to substation, but didn't really do anything the rest of the day. I did talk to Faye and filled her in on what my protocol is. She answered a lot of questions that I had.
I stopped by my mom's house on the way home and picked up some pants she had hemmed for me.
Came home and went to the library then came home and fixed dinner.
After getting kids to bed, I sent an e-mail letter to Lyn Nell.
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