Mondays are always hard to get back into the swing of things. I was feeling pretty good about it until I got home from work. Tom had me accompany me as he got fitted for a suit for this weekends Father/Daughter dance. On the way there he told me that Dr. Divic called him today. You know it's never good when the doctor tells you to get him no matter what he's doing.
Tom's Calcitonin is now 1,000 at this point which is a jump of 333. We can now know why as the CT scan has found tumors in his liver and on his spine. At this point we can only speculate what will be done. Dr. Divic did state that this is not operable. Dr. Divic is optimistic that this cancer has not turned aggressive and that we have caught it in such a minute stage. He was thinking there is a possibility of Chemo followed by Radiation. I am convinced that Chemo is not an option for this type of cancer. February 11 we will get the final answer from Dr. Worden at the U of M.
Tom is being so brave. He was trying to joke with me tonight between my tears. God has given him a unique sense of humor! He is being so tough for my sake. We have decided to talk with the doctors before we tell the kids what is going on. They just need to be kids right now!
All we can ask for is prayers for guidance once again from the doctors. I am so glad that we have an established Thyroid Cancer Oncologist.
Psalms 57:1-3 "O God, have pity, for I am trusting you! I will hide beneath the shadow of your wings until the storm is past. I will cry to the God of heaven who does such wonders for me. He will send down help from heaven to save me, because of his love and his faithfulness. He will rescue me from these liars who are so intent upon destroying me."
Monday, February 1, 2010
Saturday, January 16, 2010
What a month
The sun was shinning this past week! No matter how cold it gets I always feel better when the sun is shining. The kids are back in the swing of school & homework. My class started today so I will be in there with them. Katie is starting her first basketball practice today. She is so excited about being able to play a 3 on 3 game! She also watched the high school cheer leading competition this week & came home very enthused and energized by it.
Tom had a busy week as well. He got his blood work done & is waiting for the results. His CT scan is scheduled for Friday, January 22 which give us a date night as this is not until 7:30 pm. He was also approved for the Genetics testing and will get that test done on Thursday, January 21st. Also on Thursday, he will see his primary doctor. We have Dr. Worden's appointment for Thursday, February 11. This is another afternoon appointment so we can make the trip in one day. Today we got a letter of approval for 2 trips to the U of M, consultations only. This has been a busy month and we are only 1/2 the way through!
It truly has been a long year and a half since I have felt so confident in those taking care of my loved one's health. I hope that we will continue to make head way with Tom's disease. I know that Tom is also relieved that we made the change. Thanks again for all the words of encouragement and the prayers that have been said on behalf of our family, not sure how we would make it through otherwise.
John 3:16 "For God so loved the word that he gave his only son so that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
Tom had a busy week as well. He got his blood work done & is waiting for the results. His CT scan is scheduled for Friday, January 22 which give us a date night as this is not until 7:30 pm. He was also approved for the Genetics testing and will get that test done on Thursday, January 21st. Also on Thursday, he will see his primary doctor. We have Dr. Worden's appointment for Thursday, February 11. This is another afternoon appointment so we can make the trip in one day. Today we got a letter of approval for 2 trips to the U of M, consultations only. This has been a busy month and we are only 1/2 the way through!
It truly has been a long year and a half since I have felt so confident in those taking care of my loved one's health. I hope that we will continue to make head way with Tom's disease. I know that Tom is also relieved that we made the change. Thanks again for all the words of encouragement and the prayers that have been said on behalf of our family, not sure how we would make it through otherwise.
John 3:16 "For God so loved the word that he gave his only son so that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Moving to Ann Arbor
Not ready to put the house up for sale and move to Ann Arbor, but we will be moving Tom's health care to the U of M. Today we met with Dr. Worden. He is an Associate Professor in the Hematology/Oncology Department. We finally feel like we have an Oncologist on the same page with us. He was upfront and honest with the reality of Tom's disease. We discussed his approach to Tom's long term care which will include monthly visists to the U of M, increasing blood testing to every 30 days, and CT scans every other month. This plan is more aggressive than we had been doing for the past year. What really impressed us is his concern for Tom's current quality of life. He has ordered a full blood work up as he feels that Tom's current medications need to be adjusted. He has also put Tom on new medications (glad I got him the biggest pill box available) and ordered new/more physical therapy.
We talked about treatment plans once they are able to locate the cancer. He talked about an experimental chemo treatment being performed by a college at Wayne State University. He will also bring Tom's case up for review with the "Cancer Board" at the U of M where a group of Oncologist, Endocrinologist, and Radiologist will discuss the best approach to Toms care.
We feel that this is the right direction for us to take, as difficult as it may be. I will have to use my vacation time to accompany Tom on trips back and forth to Ann Arbor. We may have a struggle convincing the insurance company that we have a right to chose the doctor we want. This will more than likely mean more out of pocket expenses. We will continue through this hand in hand learning to lean on each other when times are difficult.
Psalms 18:30 "What a God he is! How perfect in every way! All his promises prove true. He is a shield for everyone who hides behind him."
We talked about treatment plans once they are able to locate the cancer. He talked about an experimental chemo treatment being performed by a college at Wayne State University. He will also bring Tom's case up for review with the "Cancer Board" at the U of M where a group of Oncologist, Endocrinologist, and Radiologist will discuss the best approach to Toms care.
We feel that this is the right direction for us to take, as difficult as it may be. I will have to use my vacation time to accompany Tom on trips back and forth to Ann Arbor. We may have a struggle convincing the insurance company that we have a right to chose the doctor we want. This will more than likely mean more out of pocket expenses. We will continue through this hand in hand learning to lean on each other when times are difficult.
Psalms 18:30 "What a God he is! How perfect in every way! All his promises prove true. He is a shield for everyone who hides behind him."
Monday, December 14, 2009
Not yet
With the weather being predicted as an oncoming Blizzard last week, Tom decided to postpone the trip to Ann Arbor. We are now schedule to meet Dr. Worden on January 6. This appointment is at 1:00 so we should be able to manage the drive to and from in one day. We also decided to cancel all of Tom's other appointments and begin again in the new year. January may be a very busy month for my hubby. So for now we are concentrating on getting ready for the holidays. We still have major shopping to do and the kids only have 1 week left of school. This is going to be very tricky as our time becomes more limited.
The kids are excited about their upcoming parties at school and the thought of being off for 2 weeks! They have already been sledding most of last week and loving the cups of hot chocolate they are able to consume when they come back inside. Ready or not, I believe winter is here for a while.
My presentation on The Anatomy of Hope is behind me and I am glad to say that I did pretty good considering that I forgot my notes at home. Luckily I had my USB drive in my purse and was still able to present. Those of you who know me well should not be surprised that I forgot it (I have been known to leave suitcases behind :) I have one more class and then am looking forward to enjoying the holidays with our families.
I would like to share one other thought. Our church is studying the Psalms, you know I can't resist going to hear them! A few weeks ago our pastor was talking about Hope. He stated that it is very important where we go for hope. I agreed at the time, but as the days past those words really hit my heart. As in my presentation about Hope and the importance of having it....it is just as important of What you Hope and in Who. It truly does matter. It's almost like the commercial, "What's in your wallet?"
Psalms 25:15-19 "My eyes are ever looking to the Lord for help, for he alone can rescue me. Come, Lord, and show me your mercy, for I am helpless, overwhelmed, in deep distress; my problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all! Se my sorrows; feel my pain, forgive my sins."
The kids are excited about their upcoming parties at school and the thought of being off for 2 weeks! They have already been sledding most of last week and loving the cups of hot chocolate they are able to consume when they come back inside. Ready or not, I believe winter is here for a while.
My presentation on The Anatomy of Hope is behind me and I am glad to say that I did pretty good considering that I forgot my notes at home. Luckily I had my USB drive in my purse and was still able to present. Those of you who know me well should not be surprised that I forgot it (I have been known to leave suitcases behind :) I have one more class and then am looking forward to enjoying the holidays with our families.
I would like to share one other thought. Our church is studying the Psalms, you know I can't resist going to hear them! A few weeks ago our pastor was talking about Hope. He stated that it is very important where we go for hope. I agreed at the time, but as the days past those words really hit my heart. As in my presentation about Hope and the importance of having it....it is just as important of What you Hope and in Who. It truly does matter. It's almost like the commercial, "What's in your wallet?"
Psalms 25:15-19 "My eyes are ever looking to the Lord for help, for he alone can rescue me. Come, Lord, and show me your mercy, for I am helpless, overwhelmed, in deep distress; my problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all! Se my sorrows; feel my pain, forgive my sins."
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Buried in Paperwork
We are 2 days away from Thanksgiving. I want to wish everyone a wonderful and safe day. We will not be traveling very far, and I'm thankful for that. The Tri-mester is winding down this week for our children. Our eldest has Exams, though he missed the first day of test as he was home sick. The kids are looking forward to the up coming holidays.
I wanted take a moment to say thanks to so many of you that were able to attend my surprise party. It was so great to see you all. I know that for some people it had been a number of years since we have seen each other. I told a few people that I believe I talked with everyone, but had a conversation with no one as it was a busy night trying to catch everyone. However, I was so glad that I got to see people who've touched my life. Looking back, it was a great time!
Last weekend we went to Ohio for the bashing of U of M. The Ohio group was not too hard on all of us Michigan travelers this year. Thanks to our Ohio friends for putting up with so much Blue in their home! I know we all had such a great time getting together. To end the 2009 year, Tom has been ramping up his schedule again. I'm not sure how he does it, but he says that he is ready and able for this grueling schedule.
Before we left for Ohio last week we met with Dr. Collins, Endocrinologist. She was very interested in Tom's history and had us tell her (in our words) what has been going on since 2007. It was amazing to hear that she studied under Dr. Teknos and Dr. Worden at the U of M before graduated in the summer of 2007. What a small world. We ended the consultation with reassurance that we are doing the right thing by going to see Dr. Worden at the U of M. She also said that Tom was a more complicated case than she had first thought. She wanted to do some research and gather more of his results from past test before she could see where (if at all) she could assist Tom. We have an appointment to see her in January of 2010. This past week I've made phone calls to make sure that the doctor has all the papers and the test results and/or which ones we will need to bring . There is so much paperwork to see another doctor, it's like starting again from the beginning of a book, except that the book is 2 years old and more chapters are added.
Meeting with these doctors has once again reminded me of how fragile life truly is. Our family has the gift of time; not only to make good memories for the kids, but also to be able to practise living in love. Each mile marker that happens; birthdays, holidays, etc. I thank God that Tom is here to be a part of. Love is our greatest guide.
"Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love makes up for many of your faults." 1 Peter 4:8
I wanted take a moment to say thanks to so many of you that were able to attend my surprise party. It was so great to see you all. I know that for some people it had been a number of years since we have seen each other. I told a few people that I believe I talked with everyone, but had a conversation with no one as it was a busy night trying to catch everyone. However, I was so glad that I got to see people who've touched my life. Looking back, it was a great time!
Last weekend we went to Ohio for the bashing of U of M. The Ohio group was not too hard on all of us Michigan travelers this year. Thanks to our Ohio friends for putting up with so much Blue in their home! I know we all had such a great time getting together. To end the 2009 year, Tom has been ramping up his schedule again. I'm not sure how he does it, but he says that he is ready and able for this grueling schedule.
Before we left for Ohio last week we met with Dr. Collins, Endocrinologist. She was very interested in Tom's history and had us tell her (in our words) what has been going on since 2007. It was amazing to hear that she studied under Dr. Teknos and Dr. Worden at the U of M before graduated in the summer of 2007. What a small world. We ended the consultation with reassurance that we are doing the right thing by going to see Dr. Worden at the U of M. She also said that Tom was a more complicated case than she had first thought. She wanted to do some research and gather more of his results from past test before she could see where (if at all) she could assist Tom. We have an appointment to see her in January of 2010. This past week I've made phone calls to make sure that the doctor has all the papers and the test results and/or which ones we will need to bring . There is so much paperwork to see another doctor, it's like starting again from the beginning of a book, except that the book is 2 years old and more chapters are added.
Meeting with these doctors has once again reminded me of how fragile life truly is. Our family has the gift of time; not only to make good memories for the kids, but also to be able to practise living in love. Each mile marker that happens; birthdays, holidays, etc. I thank God that Tom is here to be a part of. Love is our greatest guide.
"Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love makes up for many of your faults." 1 Peter 4:8
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Ann Arbor
The kids are finishing their first Tri-mester at school. It will be interesting to see if having the Parental Portal to check their status and current grade has been helpful. We parents are still learning how to use this tool. The kids are liking the ads help them decide what to mark on their "Wish lists" in anticipation of Christmas gifts. The boys have definitely gone to the higher priced toys.
Tom's schedule continues to be busy. Last weekend along with his regular work schedule, he taught classes at the Wayland EMS Disaster Blitz. The kids were able to participate in the drills for Mass Causality. Their wounds looked totally real and they had a blast! I was able to be outside and to enjoy the Indian Summer last weekend. I loved every minute of the sun and warmer temp.
This week we received a call from Dr. Worden's office. We will be visiting the U of M on Wednesday, December 9. It will be an interesting step to have yet another specialist working on Tom's disease. I believe that we are taking a step in the right direction. Again, I am amazed at Tom's primary doctor who pushed the issue, helping us get what we need for Tom's medical care.
Katie watched a show this week and was "singing" to me about what she heard. She recited this verse by heart, and I was touched by her words. To come out of the mouth of a babe was awesome! "Keep on asking and you will keep on getting; keep on looking and you will keep finding; knock and the door will be opened." Luke 11:9
Tom's schedule continues to be busy. Last weekend along with his regular work schedule, he taught classes at the Wayland EMS Disaster Blitz. The kids were able to participate in the drills for Mass Causality. Their wounds looked totally real and they had a blast! I was able to be outside and to enjoy the Indian Summer last weekend. I loved every minute of the sun and warmer temp.
This week we received a call from Dr. Worden's office. We will be visiting the U of M on Wednesday, December 9. It will be an interesting step to have yet another specialist working on Tom's disease. I believe that we are taking a step in the right direction. Again, I am amazed at Tom's primary doctor who pushed the issue, helping us get what we need for Tom's medical care.
Katie watched a show this week and was "singing" to me about what she heard. She recited this verse by heart, and I was touched by her words. To come out of the mouth of a babe was awesome! "Keep on asking and you will keep on getting; keep on looking and you will keep finding; knock and the door will be opened." Luke 11:9
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Oncology
The time change is effecting some of our family members. I always have a hard time with this change. However, I am glad the kids can walk to school in the light. They do seem a little sluggish but I am not sure it is all due to the time change and not a little to do with the sugar withdraws!
Tom had his blood work done on Friday. His primary doctor called him on Tuesday to give him the new count which has shot up another 120 counts and now is up to 663. During their conversation the doctor mentioned about Tom going to the U of M to see Dr. Worden. This brought another conversation between Dr. and Insurance company asking why Tom was denied going to the U of M. The Case Manager called me asking me to give a little more detail about about the doctor we see at the U of M. She explained that the insurance company thought it was agreed that we were going to the Cancer Center in Detroit. A few phone calls later and we have an approval to see the Oncologist at U of M. Dr. Worden will oversee Tom's treatment working with our current Oncologist at the Lemmon Holton Cancer Pavilion. It feels good to make some forward progress.
Thursday Tom will see his primary doctor and hopefully will have the UofM referral before he leaves that office. Then on November 19 he will be having a consult with Dr. Campbell here in West Michigan. On the 20th he will see an Endocrinologist for a consult here in GR. He is continuing his PT every Friday and that fills up his calendar for the month!
Thanks to all who have continued to keep our family in your prayers. I believe they have kept us in forward motion. The power of prayer along with a positive attitude is a remarkable thing!
James 5:7 -8"So give yourselves humbly to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. And when you draw close to God, God will draw close to you."
Tom had his blood work done on Friday. His primary doctor called him on Tuesday to give him the new count which has shot up another 120 counts and now is up to 663. During their conversation the doctor mentioned about Tom going to the U of M to see Dr. Worden. This brought another conversation between Dr. and Insurance company asking why Tom was denied going to the U of M. The Case Manager called me asking me to give a little more detail about about the doctor we see at the U of M. She explained that the insurance company thought it was agreed that we were going to the Cancer Center in Detroit. A few phone calls later and we have an approval to see the Oncologist at U of M. Dr. Worden will oversee Tom's treatment working with our current Oncologist at the Lemmon Holton Cancer Pavilion. It feels good to make some forward progress.
Thursday Tom will see his primary doctor and hopefully will have the UofM referral before he leaves that office. Then on November 19 he will be having a consult with Dr. Campbell here in West Michigan. On the 20th he will see an Endocrinologist for a consult here in GR. He is continuing his PT every Friday and that fills up his calendar for the month!
Thanks to all who have continued to keep our family in your prayers. I believe they have kept us in forward motion. The power of prayer along with a positive attitude is a remarkable thing!
James 5:7 -8"So give yourselves humbly to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. And when you draw close to God, God will draw close to you."
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