12/7/09 - I had my CT scan today. I have an appointment with Dr. Feldman to get my results on Thursday, December 10th. It has been so great living a “normal” life again. I hope and pray that my results will continue to been great.
12/10/09 – I met with Dr Feldman and YES!!!!!!!!!!!! My results were perfect.
This is the best Christmas present I would have ever hoped for. I am truly blessed.
Truly... God is Good, God is GREAT!!!
My next scan is scheduled on March 8, 2010. I have an appointment with Dr. Goy on March 10th to review the results.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a
Very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year.
Here are links to videos of some great Christmas Songs. Enjoy
Little Drummer Boy - David Bowie & Bing Crosby
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9KpNznVLlY
Mary Did You Know? - Kutless
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NC-b4mYFT1A
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer - Jack Johnson
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzCrdQXKx1U
Silent Night - Mercy Me
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30o_QZnVBjA
Do You Hear What I Hear? - Third Day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAxrF43DJvA
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen - Ian Anderson
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAKjFxCx9SE
What Child Is This? - Neil Young & Ben
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wM8lCIHsWz0
Santa Claus is Coming to Town – Bruce Springsteen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yErhglOXIxM
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
What a Difference a Year Makes
9/9/09 - I had my CT scan today. I have an appointment with Dr. Goy to get my results on Monday, September 14th. I am feeling great. I feel that I am back to my old self. It would sure be if my results support how I am feeling.
9/13/09 – My wife Sue and I attended the First Annual “Celebrating Life and Liberty, Cancer Survivor Day” at Ellis Island thrown by Hackensack University Medical Center. What I wonderful event this was. We had the pleasure of seeing many of the people we got to know over the past year. Survivors and care givers all had a fantastic time together. Throughout the day there were many performances including three songs sung by one of my fellow Mantle Cell Lymphoma study patients, Jim Roth. He was GREAT! This event was the brain child of Dr. Goy. It is surely amazing how such a great doctor can also be focused on taking time to celebrate. Ellis Island, a place known for new beginnings, was truly a remarkable place to have such an event.
9/14/09 - I had an appointment with Dr Goy and Dr. Feldman. I was informed that my CT scan was 100% clear. I am still in remission! I just can not get over how blessed that I am. God is Good!
My next CT scan is scheduled for Monday, December 7th, 2009. I have an appointment to review my scan results with Dr. Feldman on Thursday, December 10th, 2009.
I will update this blog again after my December 10th appointment with Dr. Feldman.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
9/13/09 – My wife Sue and I attended the First Annual “Celebrating Life and Liberty, Cancer Survivor Day” at Ellis Island thrown by Hackensack University Medical Center. What I wonderful event this was. We had the pleasure of seeing many of the people we got to know over the past year. Survivors and care givers all had a fantastic time together. Throughout the day there were many performances including three songs sung by one of my fellow Mantle Cell Lymphoma study patients, Jim Roth. He was GREAT! This event was the brain child of Dr. Goy. It is surely amazing how such a great doctor can also be focused on taking time to celebrate. Ellis Island, a place known for new beginnings, was truly a remarkable place to have such an event.
9/14/09 - I had an appointment with Dr Goy and Dr. Feldman. I was informed that my CT scan was 100% clear. I am still in remission! I just can not get over how blessed that I am. God is Good!
My next CT scan is scheduled for Monday, December 7th, 2009. I have an appointment to review my scan results with Dr. Feldman on Thursday, December 10th, 2009.
I will update this blog again after my December 10th appointment with Dr. Feldman.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Dealing with Challenges Life Brings Us
6/13/09 – On June 13th my parish celebrated its 30th Anniversary. A few friends on mine and myself, who call ourselves the “Hearts of Fire Band”, provided some of the evening’s entertainment. One song I was fortunate to sing is called “Bring the Rain”. My daughter Jill brought this song to my attention. She said “Dad, check out this song, its like you wrote it”. She was right on. I fell in love with the song. I truly believe it puts to words my philosophy on how I strive to deal with challenges life brings us. Check out this You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m17af0XmPFo
Here is a You Tube that explains the song in more detail:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVT2-vXXxME
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Here is a You Tube that explains the song in more detail:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVT2-vXXxME
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
The Future is Looking Bright
6/5/09 – I had my CT Scan today. I have an appointment with Dr. Feldman to get my results on Tuesday, June 9th. I am feeling very strong. I just want to hear the words that I am still in remission. I wish I could fast forward time to June 9th and hear my results.
"Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith…… And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you." (1 Peter 5: 7-10)
6/9/09 – Today was a very good day. I had an appointment with Dr. Feldman (Dr. Goy is in Europe sharing all of his excellent work and practices with the medical community around the world… what a great guy!). I was informed that my CT scan was 100% clear and that there is absolutely no sign of any enlarged lymph nodes. I am still in remission. Also, I am not showing any residual effects of my chemo therapy treatments. This is great news. I feel like I am back to full strength. Sure I need to exercise more… but who doesn’t? My scans were so clear that my next scans do not need to include a PET scan. It just needs to be a CT scan. I will only need a PET scan if there are ever any signs of enlarged lymph nodes in the future. My next CT scan is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9th, 2009. I have an appointment to review my scan results with Dr. Goy on Friday, September 11th, 2009.
My future is definitely looking brighter.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
I will update this blog again after my September 11th appointment with Dr. Goy.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
"Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith…… And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you." (1 Peter 5: 7-10)
6/9/09 – Today was a very good day. I had an appointment with Dr. Feldman (Dr. Goy is in Europe sharing all of his excellent work and practices with the medical community around the world… what a great guy!). I was informed that my CT scan was 100% clear and that there is absolutely no sign of any enlarged lymph nodes. I am still in remission. Also, I am not showing any residual effects of my chemo therapy treatments. This is great news. I feel like I am back to full strength. Sure I need to exercise more… but who doesn’t? My scans were so clear that my next scans do not need to include a PET scan. It just needs to be a CT scan. I will only need a PET scan if there are ever any signs of enlarged lymph nodes in the future. My next CT scan is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9th, 2009. I have an appointment to review my scan results with Dr. Goy on Friday, September 11th, 2009.
My future is definitely looking brighter.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
I will update this blog again after my September 11th appointment with Dr. Goy.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Stewardship Witness Talk
On May 16th and May 17th I gave a stewardship witness talk at my Parish, St. Francis de Sales of Vernon NJ. Below is the text of the talk I gave:
Hi, my name is Rich Franco.
I am 48 years old.
I am a husband.
I am a father of two teenaged daughters and I am a cancer survivor.
Cancer survivor… I never thought those words would ever come out of my mouth.
Something else I didn’t expect was that in dealing with my illness, I would be touched by Stewardship in such a way that I would be willing to get up here and tell you about it.
In my 17 years as a parishioner I have always been a big fan of Stewardship.
After all it’s hard to find fault with putting to work the gifts that God has given us to help others.
Hey, I have been blessed with a great life…
· with my wife Sue.
o This year we will be celebrating our 25th Wedding Anniversary.
· I have two wonderful daughters, Jill and Alli.
· I have a very supportive family.
· And I have great friends… friends who would be here to help me with a second’s notice.
Life has always been good for me… so why wouldn’t I be willing to cheerfully share my Time, Talent and Treasure?
And this is not just talk on my part. A year ago my Stewardship included:
· Teaching Religious Education to 1st and 9th graders
· Helping with the development of a new Confirmation program
· Assisting with our Parish Website
· Filling in as usher from time to time
· I even found time to help a friend with Youth Music Ministry at another parish
· And yes, we always use our envelope to make our weekly contribution.
I would have gladly repeated my efforts for this year … but it wasn’t meant to be.
On July 17th I was given news that shook my world.
I was diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a cancer that is known to be very aggressive and very resilient to treatment.
It was suggested that I get a second opinion from Dr. Andre Goy of Hackensack University Medical Center. He is one of the top Mantle Cell Lymphoma experts in the world.
Dr. Goy was in the process of working on a clinical trial for Mantle Cell in which he needed 18 study patients. He had 17 of the slots filled. After meeting with him he offered me the last slot in the study.
I truly felt God with me on that day.
Over the next 7 months I received chemo therapy treatments and struggled through a number of serious infections.
I could have never gotten through this without my wife Sue, who was by my side 24/7. My daughters and the rest of my family and friends were all just so supportive.
Even though I have cancer, I can not help but to think just how lucky I am.
Keeping a positive attitude, praying often and being strong for my loved ones was my main focus.
Me getting well… that was in the hands of my doctors and yes, God.
As my family and I dealt with the challenges of my disease, many of our friends here at St. Francis were there for us.
· People showed up at my house to mow my lawn, plow my drive way. I even had a group of teens and parents perform a fall clean up on my property.
· I received numerous phone calls, greeting cards and emails of encouragement and support.
· My family and I received countless offers to help us with whatever we needed.
· And the many prayers said on my behalf were simply amazing
I can’t even start to name all of the people who have reached out to me and my family.
But I must mention that Father Boland has been extremely supportive.
I would like to thank everyone here at St. Francis de Sales for all that you have done for me and my family during a very difficult time.
Now let me ask you a question.
Is what everyone did for me an example of Stewardship? Sure it is!
But this was a completely different view of it for me.
This time… I’m the one on the receiving end of it.
This made me begin to see Stewardship in a whole new light.
Stewardship is not just about us “cheerfully sharing our time, talent and treasure.
It’s so much more.
It’s about:
· Love
· Compassion
· Kindness
· Caring
· Encouragement
· Support
· Friendship
· Generosity
· And it’s about Prayer
Most of all Stewardship is about community.
It’s about being there for each other.
It’s about me needing you …
and you needing me.
And Yes, YOU truly are needed…
· YOU are needed to help the families struggling to make ends meet by supporting the food pantry and our Parish’s Emergency Reserve Fund.
· YOU are needed to help the person who just lost a loved one and needs help dealing with their grief.
· YOU are needed by the youth who needs help learning about our religion?
· YOU are needed as a Eucharistic Minister, a Lector, or a Music Minister to support our Liturgy.
· YOU are needed as an Usher or Minister of Hospitality to make everyone feel welcome.
· YOU are needed to help those struggling with illness by giving them your support, your encouragement, and your prayers…
And YES, the St. Francis community can help YOU
By helping you strengthening your faith through retreats, bible studies and other faith formation activities
There are just so many opportunities for you to help others and for others to help you here at St. Francis de Sales.
At some point you should check out our new and improved web site and see what Stewardship has to offer you and your family.
I guess I should finish telling you about how I’m doing…
Did I mention my strong belief in the power of prayer?
Well our prayers are heard …
And our prayers are answered.
On March 2nd I was told that I was in full remission.
I can’t thank God enough for his great healing power.
I guess I have a life time to show my thanks.
True, I will never know how long my cancer will be in remission. With my first follow up scans just a couple of weeks away, I know God will be there to carry me through them.
But as of right now I can honestly say that I’m back… and I’m ready to help in anyway that I can.
Please know that I am here for you if you need me.
I can also say, without any hesitation, that I know that you’re here for me and my family.
Let’s take a moment… to look at all the people sitting around us.
I ask you, are we all here for each other?
If the answer is “Yes”, then that’s truly what Stewardship is all about.
Thank You
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Hi, my name is Rich Franco.
I am 48 years old.
I am a husband.
I am a father of two teenaged daughters and I am a cancer survivor.
Cancer survivor… I never thought those words would ever come out of my mouth.
Something else I didn’t expect was that in dealing with my illness, I would be touched by Stewardship in such a way that I would be willing to get up here and tell you about it.
In my 17 years as a parishioner I have always been a big fan of Stewardship.
After all it’s hard to find fault with putting to work the gifts that God has given us to help others.
Hey, I have been blessed with a great life…
· with my wife Sue.
o This year we will be celebrating our 25th Wedding Anniversary.
· I have two wonderful daughters, Jill and Alli.
· I have a very supportive family.
· And I have great friends… friends who would be here to help me with a second’s notice.
Life has always been good for me… so why wouldn’t I be willing to cheerfully share my Time, Talent and Treasure?
And this is not just talk on my part. A year ago my Stewardship included:
· Teaching Religious Education to 1st and 9th graders
· Helping with the development of a new Confirmation program
· Assisting with our Parish Website
· Filling in as usher from time to time
· I even found time to help a friend with Youth Music Ministry at another parish
· And yes, we always use our envelope to make our weekly contribution.
I would have gladly repeated my efforts for this year … but it wasn’t meant to be.
On July 17th I was given news that shook my world.
I was diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a cancer that is known to be very aggressive and very resilient to treatment.
It was suggested that I get a second opinion from Dr. Andre Goy of Hackensack University Medical Center. He is one of the top Mantle Cell Lymphoma experts in the world.
Dr. Goy was in the process of working on a clinical trial for Mantle Cell in which he needed 18 study patients. He had 17 of the slots filled. After meeting with him he offered me the last slot in the study.
I truly felt God with me on that day.
Over the next 7 months I received chemo therapy treatments and struggled through a number of serious infections.
I could have never gotten through this without my wife Sue, who was by my side 24/7. My daughters and the rest of my family and friends were all just so supportive.
Even though I have cancer, I can not help but to think just how lucky I am.
Keeping a positive attitude, praying often and being strong for my loved ones was my main focus.
Me getting well… that was in the hands of my doctors and yes, God.
As my family and I dealt with the challenges of my disease, many of our friends here at St. Francis were there for us.
· People showed up at my house to mow my lawn, plow my drive way. I even had a group of teens and parents perform a fall clean up on my property.
· I received numerous phone calls, greeting cards and emails of encouragement and support.
· My family and I received countless offers to help us with whatever we needed.
· And the many prayers said on my behalf were simply amazing
I can’t even start to name all of the people who have reached out to me and my family.
But I must mention that Father Boland has been extremely supportive.
I would like to thank everyone here at St. Francis de Sales for all that you have done for me and my family during a very difficult time.
Now let me ask you a question.
Is what everyone did for me an example of Stewardship? Sure it is!
But this was a completely different view of it for me.
This time… I’m the one on the receiving end of it.
This made me begin to see Stewardship in a whole new light.
Stewardship is not just about us “cheerfully sharing our time, talent and treasure.
It’s so much more.
It’s about:
· Love
· Compassion
· Kindness
· Caring
· Encouragement
· Support
· Friendship
· Generosity
· And it’s about Prayer
Most of all Stewardship is about community.
It’s about being there for each other.
It’s about me needing you …
and you needing me.
And Yes, YOU truly are needed…
· YOU are needed to help the families struggling to make ends meet by supporting the food pantry and our Parish’s Emergency Reserve Fund.
· YOU are needed to help the person who just lost a loved one and needs help dealing with their grief.
· YOU are needed by the youth who needs help learning about our religion?
· YOU are needed as a Eucharistic Minister, a Lector, or a Music Minister to support our Liturgy.
· YOU are needed as an Usher or Minister of Hospitality to make everyone feel welcome.
· YOU are needed to help those struggling with illness by giving them your support, your encouragement, and your prayers…
And YES, the St. Francis community can help YOU
By helping you strengthening your faith through retreats, bible studies and other faith formation activities
There are just so many opportunities for you to help others and for others to help you here at St. Francis de Sales.
At some point you should check out our new and improved web site and see what Stewardship has to offer you and your family.
I guess I should finish telling you about how I’m doing…
Did I mention my strong belief in the power of prayer?
Well our prayers are heard …
And our prayers are answered.
On March 2nd I was told that I was in full remission.
I can’t thank God enough for his great healing power.
I guess I have a life time to show my thanks.
True, I will never know how long my cancer will be in remission. With my first follow up scans just a couple of weeks away, I know God will be there to carry me through them.
But as of right now I can honestly say that I’m back… and I’m ready to help in anyway that I can.
Please know that I am here for you if you need me.
I can also say, without any hesitation, that I know that you’re here for me and my family.
Let’s take a moment… to look at all the people sitting around us.
I ask you, are we all here for each other?
If the answer is “Yes”, then that’s truly what Stewardship is all about.
Thank You
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Monday, March 2, 2009
Free at Last!!!!!!!!!!
3/2/09 – Today was a great day. I received the results from my CT and PET Scans. To quote Dr. Feldman: “Your scans are perfect! There is no sign of lymphoma.” She continued by saying: “Enjoy your new life.” I do not think I could have asked for better news.
I do not need to go back to the Cancer Center for 3 months. At that point I will get a CT scan to check on the status of my remission. Dr. Goy and his team have excellent results with long term remissions. There are many people who have been in remission for many years. I have no doubt that I will see the same for me.
The way my maintenance will work is that I will get a CT scan every 3 months and a PET scan every 6 months. My next CT scan is scheduled for Friday, June 5th. I will have a follow up appointment to review my results on Tuesday, June 9th.
Note: I will most likely not provide any updates to this blog until I get my results in June.
I really want to thank everyone for all your prayers, support and encouragement. My family, friends, co-workers, people of St. Francis de Sales in Vernon NJ, people of Our Lady Queen of Peace in West Milford NJ, my doctors, my nurses, all the people of the Hackensack Medical Center Cancer Center, all the people of the Hackensack University Medical Center, and everyone else who gave support to me and my family. I must give a very special Thank You to my wife Sue, who I could have never made it through this journey without.
And of course there are the healing hands of Christ who answered everyone’s prayers and brought me to be in a full remission with my cancer called Mantle Cell Lymphoma. I truly want to thank God by being a good Christian and by performing he works every chance I get. I will pray for guidance on what I should do. I guess I can start by sharing my experiences and offer my prayers, support and encouragement with anyone who is going through a similar journey. If anyone would like to contact me please feel free to email me at: Mantle.Cell.Lymphoma@gmail.com
As think of a way to conclude this posting I can’t get a song out of my head that I used to teach to 1st and 2nd graders in Religious Education class. The song was not intended for kids but it is so simple I used it. It originally was recorded by Sinead O’Connor. It was then reworked and released by the David Crowder Band. The song is called: “Thank You For Hearing Me”. Here is a link to a You Tube Video that I am sure you will enjoy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v-YPbbNRPY
Thank You for Hearing Me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for finding me
Thank you for finding me
Thank you for finding me
Thank you for finding me
Thank you for hearing me
Thank you for hearing me
Thank you for hearing me
Thank you for hearing me
Thank you for healing me
Thank you for healing me
Thank you for healing me
Thank you for healing me
La la la la la la
La la la la la la
La la la la la la
La la la la la la
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for saving me
Thank you for saving me
Thank you for saving me
Thank you for saving me...
========================
Psalm 103: 2-5
Bless the LORD, my soul; do not forget all the gifts of God,
Who pardons all your sins, heals all your ills,
Delivers your life from the pit, surrounds you with love and compassion,
2 Fills your days with good things; your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Again, thank you to all!
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
I do not need to go back to the Cancer Center for 3 months. At that point I will get a CT scan to check on the status of my remission. Dr. Goy and his team have excellent results with long term remissions. There are many people who have been in remission for many years. I have no doubt that I will see the same for me.
The way my maintenance will work is that I will get a CT scan every 3 months and a PET scan every 6 months. My next CT scan is scheduled for Friday, June 5th. I will have a follow up appointment to review my results on Tuesday, June 9th.
Note: I will most likely not provide any updates to this blog until I get my results in June.
I really want to thank everyone for all your prayers, support and encouragement. My family, friends, co-workers, people of St. Francis de Sales in Vernon NJ, people of Our Lady Queen of Peace in West Milford NJ, my doctors, my nurses, all the people of the Hackensack Medical Center Cancer Center, all the people of the Hackensack University Medical Center, and everyone else who gave support to me and my family. I must give a very special Thank You to my wife Sue, who I could have never made it through this journey without.
And of course there are the healing hands of Christ who answered everyone’s prayers and brought me to be in a full remission with my cancer called Mantle Cell Lymphoma. I truly want to thank God by being a good Christian and by performing he works every chance I get. I will pray for guidance on what I should do. I guess I can start by sharing my experiences and offer my prayers, support and encouragement with anyone who is going through a similar journey. If anyone would like to contact me please feel free to email me at: Mantle.Cell.Lymphoma@gmail.com
As think of a way to conclude this posting I can’t get a song out of my head that I used to teach to 1st and 2nd graders in Religious Education class. The song was not intended for kids but it is so simple I used it. It originally was recorded by Sinead O’Connor. It was then reworked and released by the David Crowder Band. The song is called: “Thank You For Hearing Me”. Here is a link to a You Tube Video that I am sure you will enjoy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v-YPbbNRPY
Thank You for Hearing Me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for finding me
Thank you for finding me
Thank you for finding me
Thank you for finding me
Thank you for hearing me
Thank you for hearing me
Thank you for hearing me
Thank you for hearing me
Thank you for healing me
Thank you for healing me
Thank you for healing me
Thank you for healing me
La la la la la la
La la la la la la
La la la la la la
La la la la la la
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for loving me
Thank you for saving me
Thank you for saving me
Thank you for saving me
Thank you for saving me...
========================
Psalm 103: 2-5
Bless the LORD, my soul; do not forget all the gifts of God,
Who pardons all your sins, heals all your ills,
Delivers your life from the pit, surrounds you with love and compassion,
2 Fills your days with good things; your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Again, thank you to all!
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Another Quick Update
2/24/09 - I had a follow appointment with Dr. Sebti (my infectious decease Doctor) and I also stop by the Cancer Clinic to have some blood drawn to check my counts.
Dr. Sebti said I was doing great. He felt that I no longer need to see him. He is a really nice guy buy I am OK with that.
My blood counts looked good today. WBC = 4.1 (within normal range), Platelets = 160 (within normal range), and my Hemoglobin = 7.9 (a little low).
The next big thing for me are my Scans (CT and PET).
More to come...
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Dr. Sebti said I was doing great. He felt that I no longer need to see him. He is a really nice guy buy I am OK with that.
My blood counts looked good today. WBC = 4.1 (within normal range), Platelets = 160 (within normal range), and my Hemoglobin = 7.9 (a little low).
The next big thing for me are my Scans (CT and PET).
More to come...
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Quick Update
2/16/09 - I had another follow up appointment today. My counts still look good. My WBC is 4.5 and my Platelets are 66.
2/17/09 - I went to work for the first time in a long while. I put in a full day. I was pretty tired when I got home but it felt great to be back at work.
I have a follow up with my infectious decease doctor on Tuesday, February 24th to make sure I continue to be on the right path for preventing future infections.
In addition, my PET and CT scans are scheduled for Thursday, February 26th.
I have yet another appointment scheduled for Monday, March 2nd to review my scan results.
I guess that means that the next 13 days will be really big for me.
More to come...
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
2/17/09 - I went to work for the first time in a long while. I put in a full day. I was pretty tired when I got home but it felt great to be back at work.
I have a follow up with my infectious decease doctor on Tuesday, February 24th to make sure I continue to be on the right path for preventing future infections.
In addition, my PET and CT scans are scheduled for Thursday, February 26th.
I have yet another appointment scheduled for Monday, March 2nd to review my scan results.
I guess that means that the next 13 days will be really big for me.
More to come...
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Friday, February 13, 2009
A Happy Follow Up
2/13/09 – Most people hear that it is Friday the 13th and they fear that that will run into bad luck. I must say that my experience was very different. Today I had another follow up appointment to check my blood counts. My counts have greatly improved. First off my platelets are up to 39. Although this number still needs to come up, it is a level that allows me to be around other people without any concerns. More great news is that my While Blood Cell count is now 11.9. This is an excellent number…so good that I was taken off my 4 times a day IV antibiotics. Even better, this was what the doctors needed to see to be comfortable with removing my PICC Line. And YES, Dr. Feldman removed my PICC line today. This was a very pleasant surprise. I can not tell you how good it feels to have those tubes removed from my arm. She also said that I can begin to have a normal diet. In addition, if I promised not to over do it she gave me the go ahead to re-enter the general population. This means I could start going back to work a few days a week, I could go to Church without worrying someone may touch me, I could go to restaurants, and I could pretty much do whatever I feel like doing. The real key is that I will have to begin to rebuild my strength and endurance.
The next hurdle I have in front of me is my PET and CT scans. This will be in the next couple of weeks and will provide the final verification that I am still in remission. Once this is done I will be considered on maintenance.
In the meantime I have another follow up appointment on Monday, February 16th. They will recheck my blood counts again to make sure that they continue to head in the right direction.
Jeremiah 33:6 "Behold, I will bring you health and cure, and I will cure you, and will reveal unto you the abundance of peace and truth."
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
The next hurdle I have in front of me is my PET and CT scans. This will be in the next couple of weeks and will provide the final verification that I am still in remission. Once this is done I will be considered on maintenance.
In the meantime I have another follow up appointment on Monday, February 16th. They will recheck my blood counts again to make sure that they continue to head in the right direction.
Jeremiah 33:6 "Behold, I will bring you health and cure, and I will cure you, and will reveal unto you the abundance of peace and truth."
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Cycle 6/3B - 3rd Follow Up Appointment
02/10/09 – Today is day 16 of Cycle 6/3B and I had my 3rd follow up appointment. It ending up being a pretty long day> I arrived and the Cancer Center at about 10:30 AM where my blood was taken. When my counts came back there were again very low. My White Blood Count (WBC) was 0.8, My Platelets were 16, and my Hemoglobin (the protein molecule in red blood cells) was 6.9 (normal level is between 12 and 18). This all translated into me needing some transfusions today. Being I was going to be at the hospital most of the day I was also going to need to receive my IV antibiotics.
The IV antibiotics were given to me first. This ran for about a half an hour. Next I received a pre-med of Benadryl which ran about 15 minutes (I must add that this make me very sleepy). Then I received my platelets transfusion that ran about 40 minutes. Lastly, I received my blood transfusion which ran for 4 hours. By the time we got through everything it was about 8:30 PM. As I said above, this was a long day.
I am hoping that these transfusions are effective and get my counts up to where they are should be. My next follow up appointment is Friday, February 13th.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
The IV antibiotics were given to me first. This ran for about a half an hour. Next I received a pre-med of Benadryl which ran about 15 minutes (I must add that this make me very sleepy). Then I received my platelets transfusion that ran about 40 minutes. Lastly, I received my blood transfusion which ran for 4 hours. By the time we got through everything it was about 8:30 PM. As I said above, this was a long day.
I am hoping that these transfusions are effective and get my counts up to where they are should be. My next follow up appointment is Friday, February 13th.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Friday, February 6, 2009
Cycle 6/3B – 2nd Follow Up Appointment
2/6/09 – Today I had another follow up appointment. My blood counts have pretty much crashed. My white blood cell (WBC) count is 0.5 and my platelets are 12. Based on this I was given a platelet transfusion to help give me a boost. Also with my WBC count so low I will need to keep away from people and germs as much as I can. There will be challenges with this being my youngest daughter Alli is sick with mononucleosis. I must say that nothing is ever easy.
In the spirit of wishful thinking, I asked two questions today.
The first being “When will I be able to rejoin the population?” The answer was “certainly not today. Once your counts have rebounded and you have had your scans we talk about it”. My personal guess is that I would be looking at early March but only time will tell.
My second question was “when can I discontinue the low microbial diet, that I have been on throughout my chemo, and begin to be on a regular diet?” I followed up the question with “is there any foods I can include in my diet that will help strengthen my immune system and blood counts?” The answers were basically common sense. I can start a regular diet when my counts have rebounded for good. As far as what foods I should include in my go forward diet, there is no magic answer. The best thing is to eat well balanced meals that include all kinds of fruits, vegetables, protein, etc…. The more variety the better.
My next follow up appointment is scheduled for Tuesday, February 10th.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
In the spirit of wishful thinking, I asked two questions today.
The first being “When will I be able to rejoin the population?” The answer was “certainly not today. Once your counts have rebounded and you have had your scans we talk about it”. My personal guess is that I would be looking at early March but only time will tell.
My second question was “when can I discontinue the low microbial diet, that I have been on throughout my chemo, and begin to be on a regular diet?” I followed up the question with “is there any foods I can include in my diet that will help strengthen my immune system and blood counts?” The answers were basically common sense. I can start a regular diet when my counts have rebounded for good. As far as what foods I should include in my go forward diet, there is no magic answer. The best thing is to eat well balanced meals that include all kinds of fruits, vegetables, protein, etc…. The more variety the better.
My next follow up appointment is scheduled for Tuesday, February 10th.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Cycle 6/3B Follow Up Appointment
02/03/09 – I had a follow up appointment with Dr. Goy today. My white blood counts already started to drop. They are at .8. A normal count runs between 4.0 and 12.0. Being I am in day 9 of my 21 day cycle this is a little early for this drop but there really isn’t any cause for concern as long as I do not run any fevers. My platelets have also dropped. They are at 37. Again there is no cause for concern. If they get much lower there is a chance they will want to give me blood and platelet transfusions. Dr. Goy would much prefer to see my body respond on its own.
I continue to be in IV antibiotic at home. The hope with these is to keep any infections away.
Once I get past my low white blood count (neutropenic) period the next big thing for me will be to have my PET and CT scans. This will give a status once and for all as to if I am still in remission and if this was indeed my last chemo cycle. Dr. Goy is very confident that I will get favorable results.
My next follow up appointment is scheduled for Friday, February 6th.
More to come…
I continue to be in IV antibiotic at home. The hope with these is to keep any infections away.
Once I get past my low white blood count (neutropenic) period the next big thing for me will be to have my PET and CT scans. This will give a status once and for all as to if I am still in remission and if this was indeed my last chemo cycle. Dr. Goy is very confident that I will get favorable results.
My next follow up appointment is scheduled for Friday, February 6th.
More to come…
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Home from Treatment 6/Cycle 3B
01/31/09 – I am home from my 6th and hopefully my final chemo treatment. Although I am feeling very tired, I am also feeling great at the same time and I can not tell you how great it is to be home. My treatment went off without a hitch. Today makes day 6 of my 21 day cycle. I typically run into infections between days 12 and 15 (February 6 through February 10). I sure hope that I can get through this period without an infection for a change. I just need to keep positive.
I do have to say that I left the hospital with mixed feelings. YES, I hope I am done and that I am now on my road back to a normal life. I must also say that I feel a little sadness. The nurses and the hospital staff have been so good to me over my treatments and infections that I will truly miss them. Their commitment and passion toward getting people through difficult times is simply amazing. As I left today I offered my assistance for the future. To help speak with people in a similar situation, visit with patients who are not as lucky as me to have such great family and friends and to maybe even bring my guitar and guitar buddies to entertain during certain times of the year. All my nurse friends were glad to hear this and said I was welcome to return anytime as long as it was as a visitor and not as a patient.
I guess my next big challenge is to stay in remission. I am sure that the next steps for me will be to get a better understanding of what the future holds for me and what my on going follow up regiment will be.
My next follow up appointment with Dr. Goy is scheduled for Tuesday, February 3rd.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
I do have to say that I left the hospital with mixed feelings. YES, I hope I am done and that I am now on my road back to a normal life. I must also say that I feel a little sadness. The nurses and the hospital staff have been so good to me over my treatments and infections that I will truly miss them. Their commitment and passion toward getting people through difficult times is simply amazing. As I left today I offered my assistance for the future. To help speak with people in a similar situation, visit with patients who are not as lucky as me to have such great family and friends and to maybe even bring my guitar and guitar buddies to entertain during certain times of the year. All my nurse friends were glad to hear this and said I was welcome to return anytime as long as it was as a visitor and not as a patient.
I guess my next big challenge is to stay in remission. I am sure that the next steps for me will be to get a better understanding of what the future holds for me and what my on going follow up regiment will be.
My next follow up appointment with Dr. Goy is scheduled for Tuesday, February 3rd.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Monday, January 26, 2009
Platelets are not quite 100 but good enough to move forward
01/26/09 – Today I had a check up at the Cancer Center to see if I am ready to begin my next and hopefully last chemo therapy treatment. My platelets came back at 97. I initially was worried that I would again be delayed. To my surprise my doctors viewed the 97 count as being close enough. Based on this I received my outpatient treatment and will be checking into the hospital tomorrow. I am tentatively scheduled to be released from the hospital on Saturday, January 31st.
As weird as it might sound I am happy to start this treatment because it represents what I view the beginning of the end of my chemo. I also approach this treatment with some hesitation. I know I need to keep positive but I do have some fear over another possible infection. I have had infections with all but one of my treatments. I have been in the hospital 5 times for chemo therapy but I have also been in the hospital another 6 times with infections. The law of averages tells me that another infection may be in my future. I am not sure how many more infections I will be able to handle. I know that I must have faith and simply put myself in God’s hands and hope and pray for the best outcome. After all, how great would it be to complete my treatments without any infections?
My journey with Mantle Cell sometimes makes me think of the great and popular poem by Mary Stevenson called "Footprints in the Sand". It is my pleasure to share it with you.
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,
"You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during
the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one
set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"
The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you."
More to come...
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
As weird as it might sound I am happy to start this treatment because it represents what I view the beginning of the end of my chemo. I also approach this treatment with some hesitation. I know I need to keep positive but I do have some fear over another possible infection. I have had infections with all but one of my treatments. I have been in the hospital 5 times for chemo therapy but I have also been in the hospital another 6 times with infections. The law of averages tells me that another infection may be in my future. I am not sure how many more infections I will be able to handle. I know that I must have faith and simply put myself in God’s hands and hope and pray for the best outcome. After all, how great would it be to complete my treatments without any infections?
My journey with Mantle Cell sometimes makes me think of the great and popular poem by Mary Stevenson called "Footprints in the Sand". It is my pleasure to share it with you.
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,
"You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during
the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one
set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"
The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you."
More to come...
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Friday, January 23, 2009
Final Treatment, Take Two
01/21/09 – I went to Hackensack to get another IV dose of antibiotics for the rare bacteria found in my PICC line. I also had my Platelets checked. They are now at 86. I have to believe that I will be able to start my last chemo treatment pretty soon.
01/23/09 – Today I had another IV dose of antibiotics for the rare bacteria found in my PICC line. Being I am doing well the doctors decided that today’s dose would be my last one. I still will be on IV antibiotics at home for the staff infection for about another week.
My platelets were checked again and are now at 95. Being this is so close to 100 I have been tentatively scheduled to begin my last treatment on Monday, January 26th as an out patient and to be in the hospital Tuesday, January 27th through Saturday, January 31st. This all hinges on me having a platelet count of 100 on Monday. My doctors are pretty certain that I should be able to get there but of course we will not know for sure until we see it for sure. Dr. Goy believes that exercise helps increase platelets so I plan on spending a lot of time on my stationary bike the next couple of days.
As I am preparing to embark on what I hope to be my last treatment and hopefully a road to good health, I think it is important that I take time to ask for God’s help for a successful final treatment.
Lord, look upon me with eyes of mercy, may your healing hand rest upon me, may your lifegiving powers flow into every cell of my body and into the depths of my soul, cleansing, purifying, restoring me to wholeness and strength for service in your Kingdom. Amen.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
01/23/09 – Today I had another IV dose of antibiotics for the rare bacteria found in my PICC line. Being I am doing well the doctors decided that today’s dose would be my last one. I still will be on IV antibiotics at home for the staff infection for about another week.
My platelets were checked again and are now at 95. Being this is so close to 100 I have been tentatively scheduled to begin my last treatment on Monday, January 26th as an out patient and to be in the hospital Tuesday, January 27th through Saturday, January 31st. This all hinges on me having a platelet count of 100 on Monday. My doctors are pretty certain that I should be able to get there but of course we will not know for sure until we see it for sure. Dr. Goy believes that exercise helps increase platelets so I plan on spending a lot of time on my stationary bike the next couple of days.
As I am preparing to embark on what I hope to be my last treatment and hopefully a road to good health, I think it is important that I take time to ask for God’s help for a successful final treatment.
Lord, look upon me with eyes of mercy, may your healing hand rest upon me, may your lifegiving powers flow into every cell of my body and into the depths of my soul, cleansing, purifying, restoring me to wholeness and strength for service in your Kingdom. Amen.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
I Don’t Know Where I Pick Up These Things
01/19/09 – I received a call from the Cancer Center that they needed to see me today regarding my most recent infection. It seems that they have fully identified this mystery bacteria and need to alter my antibiotics. The bacteria is Microbacterium Fortuitum Complex. It is very rare. Dr. Sebti, who is one of the primary doctors of the Center for Infectious Deceases in Hackensack University Medical Center, said that this is a bacteria that they see only about once every two years. Again, it is very rare and they have no idea on how I ended up with it (if I only had this kind of luck with the Lottery). He did say that if I was not a chemo patient that they would be very concerned, but being that I am, my immune system is subject to pick up just about anything. The good news is that I am not running any fevers and this will not be a cause for delaying my next, hopefully last, chemo treatment.
The other thing I learned yesterday was that my platelets are now up to 79. Only a couple of days ago they were 55, so they are climbing towards the 100 number I need to start chemo. Hopefully I will be able to start chemo sometime this week.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
The other thing I learned yesterday was that my platelets are now up to 79. Only a couple of days ago they were 55, so they are climbing towards the 100 number I need to start chemo. Hopefully I will be able to start chemo sometime this week.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
More Delays
01/05/09 – After a day of feeling well I settled into watching TV. Around 11:00 PM I felt a little chill. It seemed I was beginning to run a fever
01/06/09 – Around 12:00 AM my temp was up to 102.5. We headed out to the hospital. Upon arriving at the hospital my temp was up to 103.5. I was admitted into the hospital and they started running tests.
01/07/09 – The tests are starting to be returned. This is a new infection was identified as a staff infection in my PICC line. The PICC line was immediately removed. They started treating me with antibiotics and my fever was lowered. If all goes well I should be able to go home tomorrow.
01/08/09 – I looks like I am not going home after all. Another bacteria/infection was found in one of my blood cultures. This is a rare bacteria that my doctors are not familiar with. Although my temps are now normal they do not want me to go home until the bacteria is better identified. It now does not seem that I will be going home until after the weekend, maybe Monday 01/12/09.
01/09/09 through 01/11/09 – I remain in the hospital, feeling well, being bored.
01/12/09 – The doctors really do not want to send me home being they still have not fully identified the bacteria that was in my blood. After some thought, and some of suggestions from me, it is decided I can go home on intravenous antibiotics. A new PICC line was surgically installed. I made it home around 8:00PM. As always, it is great to be home. I will not be able to begin my (hopefully) last chemo treatment until this course of antibiotics has been completed. I have an appointment with Dr. Sebti (my Infectious Decease Doctor) on 01/20/09 to see where I stand with this bacteria. My guess is that there will be more information at that time as to the nature of what the bacteria was. I also will be meeting with Dr. Goy on the same day.
Currently my platelets are at 28 but they need to be 100 for me to begin my next treatment. I have until the 20th to get them up to the necessary levels.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
01/06/09 – Around 12:00 AM my temp was up to 102.5. We headed out to the hospital. Upon arriving at the hospital my temp was up to 103.5. I was admitted into the hospital and they started running tests.
01/07/09 – The tests are starting to be returned. This is a new infection was identified as a staff infection in my PICC line. The PICC line was immediately removed. They started treating me with antibiotics and my fever was lowered. If all goes well I should be able to go home tomorrow.
01/08/09 – I looks like I am not going home after all. Another bacteria/infection was found in one of my blood cultures. This is a rare bacteria that my doctors are not familiar with. Although my temps are now normal they do not want me to go home until the bacteria is better identified. It now does not seem that I will be going home until after the weekend, maybe Monday 01/12/09.
01/09/09 through 01/11/09 – I remain in the hospital, feeling well, being bored.
01/12/09 – The doctors really do not want to send me home being they still have not fully identified the bacteria that was in my blood. After some thought, and some of suggestions from me, it is decided I can go home on intravenous antibiotics. A new PICC line was surgically installed. I made it home around 8:00PM. As always, it is great to be home. I will not be able to begin my (hopefully) last chemo treatment until this course of antibiotics has been completed. I have an appointment with Dr. Sebti (my Infectious Decease Doctor) on 01/20/09 to see where I stand with this bacteria. My guess is that there will be more information at that time as to the nature of what the bacteria was. I also will be meeting with Dr. Goy on the same day.
Currently my platelets are at 28 but they need to be 100 for me to begin my next treatment. I have until the 20th to get them up to the necessary levels.
More to come…
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Monday, January 5, 2009
Treatment 6/Cycle 3B DELAYED
12/29/08 – I had a follow up appointment. My counts all look good except my platelet counts are a little low (58). It is expected that they will naturally get to my targeted number (100) by the time I begin my next treatment on 1/5/09.
Also there was some good news and some bad news. The good news was I am free of the infections and bacteria that have been haunting me with my past treatments. The bad news was that I now have a new infection called VRE. I am told that it is not a huge deal and it will go away in time. The strange thing about this infection is that it is caused by one of the antibiotics that I am on.
12/31/08 – I had a great New Years Eve with family.
1/1/09 – I had a great New Years Day with family. No infections that require hospitalization.
1/5/09 – I woke up this morning very excited. Today I will begin, what I hope to be, my last treatment. As always my visit to the Cancer Center begins with a blood test that checks my counts. They looked good except for my platelets again. They are now at 77 but must me at 100 for my treatment to start. In the past I would be given a platelet transfusion to increase my platelet level but this being late in my treatments the doctors need to see my platelets rebound naturally. I unfortunately can not start my treatments today. We rescheduled to try again on 1/7/09. Dr. Goy said the best way to get the platelet up is with activity. I guess I will need to exercise for the next two days straight.
What lesson did I get from today? In the words of Woody Allen:
“If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans.”
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
Also there was some good news and some bad news. The good news was I am free of the infections and bacteria that have been haunting me with my past treatments. The bad news was that I now have a new infection called VRE. I am told that it is not a huge deal and it will go away in time. The strange thing about this infection is that it is caused by one of the antibiotics that I am on.
12/31/08 – I had a great New Years Eve with family.
1/1/09 – I had a great New Years Day with family. No infections that require hospitalization.
1/5/09 – I woke up this morning very excited. Today I will begin, what I hope to be, my last treatment. As always my visit to the Cancer Center begins with a blood test that checks my counts. They looked good except for my platelets again. They are now at 77 but must me at 100 for my treatment to start. In the past I would be given a platelet transfusion to increase my platelet level but this being late in my treatments the doctors need to see my platelets rebound naturally. I unfortunately can not start my treatments today. We rescheduled to try again on 1/7/09. Dr. Goy said the best way to get the platelet up is with activity. I guess I will need to exercise for the next two days straight.
What lesson did I get from today? In the words of Woody Allen:
“If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans.”
http://mantlecell.blogspot.com/
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