WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Tuesday, February 28, 2006-8:29 pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: After a lazy morning, I worked at the computer a bit. In the afternoon, Veronica and I went over to my classroom to make sure everything was labeled for boxing up in May. We also brought home a few boxes that won't be needed more this year. I was very tired after all that walking and standing, so was a couch potato this evening. Th-th-th-that's all, folks!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Monday, February 27, 2006--6:25 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: This was a pretty busy day day me. After the hospice nurse came, Veronica and I met a friend for lunch, which was a great first outing for me. Other than to go to medical appointments, I have not been able to go out for a couple months. It felt very good! Then Veronica and I went to the mall to do a quick errand. It was probably more walking than I've done for a few months as well. I still feel fine, not tired at all, although I have rested much of the afternoon. Veronica had to dash off to two classes, and I bet she'll be tired when she gets home! Now, on to the Suns game!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Sunday, February 26, 2006--7:28 pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: The breakthrough meds got me through the morning feeling OK, and I haven't needed any since. The swelling goes down a bit more each day; my legs are starting to get a leg shape, as opposed to looking like tree trunks. I talked and reminisced with brother Tom for a good hour, until we were both tired of sitting at the computer. Then Veronica and I walked a new course today, probably about a 1/2 mile total. Pat had the cameras out today, and it was a little work remembering how to use the video camera, since it's probably been years since we used it. Pat also had a craving for a banana split, so I went with him to DQ to help hold things as of course, everyone wanted something from Dairy Queen! Two weeks ago, I could not get into the Explorer without help. Today I just climbed right in, no problem. Little milestones, baby steps. We are all happy.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Saturday, February 25, 2006-5:49 p.m. Arizona Time
Jan Writes: I am blessed to report another wonderful day. Even though I felt so well, I did not take a walk. I was up and down the stairs quite a few times, working on the computer up there, doing laundry and other little chores. This is what I call my ADL (Activities Of Daily Living) workout. I was pretty tired by "walk" time, so put my feet up instead, while Pat found tunes on his computer to play for me. Hope you all are having a good weekend!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Friday, February 24, 2006--6:38 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: I woke up this morning feeling fine, and remained that way all day. This morning I did a couple chores and some writing. I fell asleep while reading this afternoon, and when my friend Sandy stopped by, I was so out of it I felt like I was in a different time zone. It took me a few minutes to snap out of it. After a nice chat with Sandy, Pat accompanied me for a walk around the "big" block. The swelling continues to go down in both the legs and the belly, slowly but surely, and it makes such a difference in my ability to move. I am getting stronger also, but my balance is pretty shaky. That is why I need the walker for any kind of distance walking, and why I hang on walls and stuff inside the house.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Thursday, February 23, 2006--8:38 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: I'm taking a brief break from the Olympics to write the daily blog. I'm enjoying the freestyle ski jumpers and female skaters. Today I had two new achievements:1. I walked around the mini-block (about 1/2 a full-size block) and had lots of energy to spare. 2. I climbed the stairs one foot after another. It's the first time the right leg had the strength to do this. I'm a happy camper!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Wednesday, February 22, 2006--6:45 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Pretty typical day for when I'm feeling well: writing and reading. Today I stretched my walk to 2 corners: walked to one corner and back, then decided to go for the other corner as well. It was such a beautiful day, and I enjoyed the fresh air and warm sun on my back. The edema (swelling) continues to go down, ever so slowly. That and the neuropathy are the only remaining side-effects of the chemo that I need to overcome. Then all I'll have to deal with is the liver. I just have to be patient, which is not too hard at this time since I feel so much better.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Tuesday, February 21, 2006--4:30 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Another good day! It was restful and quiet. I spent the morning reading, writing and talking with Pat. This afternoon I did some computer work upstairs after I did my daily feet soaking. (Edited at 9:00 pm: This evening I rode the family exercise bike, lowest speed setting and very slowly, for 10 minutes. The legs were very tight at first, then felt loose. Easier than walking! The hardest thing was getting my leg over the bar at the beginning and end.)

One of Pat's favorite hobbies is working with Photoshop to modify images at the Photoshop Contest site, which also has a forum where the hobbiests can communicate with each other. The other day Pat informed them of my illness, and the response from his "cyber-friends" has been moving. I would like to personally thank you PSC site people for your support of both Pat and me during this time. Blessings to all.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Monday, February 20, 2006--7:40 pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Today we finished celebrating V's birthday with ice cream cake and gifts. And yes, the cake did taste good to me, as ice cream usually tastes good and goes down well. The hospice nurse came today, and she explained alot of things to us, answering all our questions in language we could understand. We are going to increase the dosage of the pain medication. I took more pain meds today, and it made a great difference in how I feel and function--without making me groggy or goofy. Probably my body had adjusted to the previous level of meds and now needs more to have the same effect. Needless to say, it was a great day.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Sunday, February 19, 2006--5:46 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Tomorrow is V's birthday, but since she has class during the dinner hours, we decided to have her birthday meal today. She chose carry-out Olive Garden. Tomorrow we'll have her cake and presents. Today I went for a short walk outside. I made it all the way to the corner and back! I moved along pretty well, but my legs felt like cement on the way back. It just felt good to be outside, despite the chilly breeze. (I really can't complain too much that it was cold, since it was -5 in Chicago the other night.) We've been watching the NBA All-Star activities, so of course, will watch the game this evening. For those of you who have tomorrow off, enjoy your 3-day weekend!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Saturday, February 18, 2006- 9:18 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: First of all, I have to tell of a surprise I had last night: My brother Jim in Chicago called on the internet, as he now is also equipped to go on MSN Messenger. It was good to both see and talk with him, as well as his wife, Karen, who popped in later in the conversation. Today started a little rough, but I felt better as the day went on. The swelling in my lower half continues to decrease, and the rash on my legs is totally healed. Each day I can move a little better than the day before, though the neuropathy continues to challenge my balance and the coordination of feet and hands. Other than doing laundry with Veronica and a little writing, it was another sports-on-TV restful day for me.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Friday, February 17, 2006--6:24 pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Today I had a nice, long (2 hours!!) chat on the computer with my brother Bill, who lives in Florida and just recently got himself equipped for video conferences. It was like he was in the room with me. Technology is so wonderful! Today was not much different than yesterday, except that I rested a bit more. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Thursday, February 16, 2006--7:21 pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: I watched little of the Olympics during the day. I felt really good this morning, and did a few chores before the hospice nurse arrived. She was very impressed with the progress I've been making. I did some reading and writing, along with the required feet elevated rests. It is nice to be able to do more things for myself! I've come to empathize with the frustrations of those who are so dependent all the time. We are preparing to watch the Suns game, of course, and I'm sure the remote will flick to the olympics during commercials. Just another quiet day at our house. Wishing you peace.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Wednesday, February 15,2006--9:25 pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Today was a quiet day at home. I did a chore or two, rested and did some writing. It has been a joy to have so much time with my family! We've been enjoying the Olympics, and of course, enjoyed the Suns victory tonight. This is the kind of day where no news is good news. Blessings to all!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Tuesday, February 14, 2006-6:50 pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Happy Valentine's Day! Today started with a victory: I walked up the stairs! I am no longer a first floor prisoner. Pat took me to get permanent plugs in my tear ducts. It's amazing what a simple procedure it is. My doctor has very steady hands, and she had the plugs in my eyes in no time. I was wiped out after the early rising and all the activity, so took a good nap. I've been going strong ever since. We celebrated Valentine's Day with cards, small gifts, and fast food-carry-out dinners. Hope your V-Day was filled with love!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Monday, February 13, 2006-8:38 pm Arizona time
Jan Writes: Things WENT very well today. After a visit from the hospice nurse, Rebecca, most of the day was spent in "solitary confinement." I also got quite a bit of exercise-20 yard dashes, feeling the Olympic spirit in my heart. (I think you know by now where I was, and why I probably weigh a few pounds lighter!)
The exteme weakness is fading, as side effects continue to slowly fade. It feels good to have energy again! Our fluid reduction plan is working, slowly eliminating the excess fluid. Rebecca explained that you can't go too fast, or you can disrupt the body's equilibrium. So, patience will prevail.
Tomorrow morning we are going in early to have permanent plugs placed in the tear ducts. I will still have other ducts open to moisten the eyes, and shed real tears of sadness or joy. I expect many more tears of joy. Wishing you joy today!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Sunday, February12, 2006--9:11 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Abe Lincoln (and Ben Franklin-such sloth!) probably would not have approved of my sleeping in until 10 a.m. this morning, but it sure felt good! It was a lazy day, watching Olympics, chatting, reading. Pat caught Veronica's cold and took it easy today as well. He and my brother Tom had a nice chat on MSN messenger (online) and I joined in briefly. I like the site because you can see each other on the screen as you talk. Each day I feel a little better and a little stronger, but I can see it will take some time to get past the side-effects of the powerful chemo.

I think there may be some confusion about visitors. We welcome healthy people to visit, but please call first to make sure it is a good time or day. I still have my ups and downs. I also would ask that we keep visits short at this time, as my energy level remains very low, and I tire quickly.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Saturday, February 11, 2006--6:14 Arizona time
Jan Writes: Today was another good day. It began with a surprise visit from a friend trying to sneakily lay flowers by the door and run, but Veronica caught her in the act and dragged her inside. We had a short but sweet chat. I've also received cards and numerous emails, and I thank you for all your caring. I am truly blessed with more love than I could ever repay. God bless all!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Friday, Feb. 10, 2006--12: 45 am Sat. Arizona time
Jan Writes: What, still up? Yes, I slept much of the day, and so had the energy to stay up for the site to fix its server. I felt ok today, just fell asleep at a moment's notice. While awake, I had a brief team meeting in the living room with my co-workers. We needed to finish up one last project, and of course, spent a few minutes catching up on their families and the students. It was really fun for me; one of the things I liked best about being a special ed teacher was the comraderie of "the team." Today I went out to enjoy some fresh air and to test my strength a little. With the support of the walker, I made it to the end of the driveway and back. I was both exhausted and jubilant. Tyler is recovering from his wisdom tooth extraction, and Pat seems to be getting some nasty bug. He is trying to take it easy and recover quickly. Veronica is basically fine, just stressing over school work. Don't be surprised if you catch us ALL napping tomorrow!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Thursday, February 9, 2006--6:50 p.m. Arizona Time
Jan Writes: I am dozing quite a bit with the new drugs, but they are helping. Today I was able to fit into my sweat pants, so the fluids are beginning to drain off. I'm getting stronger and have better balance as well, and I'm hoping to be able to climb the stairs before long. Sleeping downstairs is not a problem; I can sleep any time, anywhere. Furthermore, sponge baths are easy when you're bald! Tyler had a wisdom tooth pulled this morning, so Pat has played nurse and tax man for the family all day, among ten million other chores. He really deserves some Kudos for his daily care for this family, especially now when it has been so hectic. Today we had a visit fom the hospice social worker. They really cover all their bases! My own walker arrived today, so Veronica took Kim's back while out running some errands. I am ready to rock and roll!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Wednesday, Feb. 8th--7:06PM, Arizona Time
Jan Writes: We decided that I should do the blog tonight to show you that I am not on my deathbed, which many people assume when Hospice is in the picture. Actually, hospice is providing me with wonderful individual care, with our immediate goal to resolve the side-effects of chemo. We have already had 2 nurses to the house, one to explain the program and one to get a few things started for me. The nurse today gave a thorough exam and gave both suggestions to aid comfort and also ordered different pills. These new pills will knock me out for a few days until my body adjusts. The reason Pat is taking over for awhile is that it takes me forever to write the blog -or anything- due to the drugs and the peripheral neuropathy that does not allow good motor control. I have to tell you I am feeling much better, legs and tummy are less swollen, taste buds are gradually coming back, mouth sores are healing. So progress is being made in the physical realm. Hearing "Hospice" is a shock, but it will not reduce the length of my life at this point. It will help me feel better to enjoy the days left. We've been blessed with many, many miracle days since the BMT in Tucson-8 years of "bonus days," And now we are we blessed with a few more, each of which we will cherish.

FYI: There have been lots of letters and calls, which we appreciate. I will be responding as I can during awake periods. As I mentioned above,Pat will probably blog most evenings for awhile, we guess. But you know the cancer roller-coaster, things change at a moment's notice. C'est le vie!

Thank you for this continuous outpouring of love and prayerfulness. Blessings, Jan

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Tuesday, February 7th,2006- 8:18PM-Arizona time

Dear friends,
I would not be honest, if I didn't say that this is the saddest blog I have ever written. Jan's symptoms have advanced to the point where the Doctor believes that the most reasonable and palliative course of treatment action is referral to Hospice of the Valley. Jan plans to spend the rest of her remaining time enjoying her family and whatever quality of life activities her physical condition allows.

It is true to say that on hearing the news, tears fell like rain.
But now we celebrate her life and look forward to sharing the love that we know will be so much a part of her final passage.

Her present physical condition dictates that she not receive visitors for either short and/or extended visits, but we are hoping that she will recover enough from the side effects of the chemotherapy (it has been discontinued) to be able to visit with distant family and with her friends here in the valley.


Hopefully, we will be able to encourage such visits in the very near future.

For now, we continue to be grateful for your prayers and support, and always wish you blessings in abundance and far greater than your years...
Pat

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Monday, February 6--9;49pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: well, I managed to stay up watch the Suns and blog, depite the fact that Gracy was up dragging her nails across the backdoor screen at 5:30 am. EWWWWW! More training necesary!
Of course, I stayed up since we had an early appointment with the Onc. I am struggling to type with the neuoropathy, so If things don't improve soon, I will have to dictate to Pat.Or just give him the pleasure of addressing this fine group family and friends. Pretty much a typical day. Pat helped me scoot up the stairs on my bottoom, so I could go upstairs, It was a hilarious struggle;you just don't know what amazing experiences you will have in 30 years of marriage. ugh! The onc ordered a prescription for the mucositis, which should ease some of those minor pains. He also stopped the Abraxane because it is too toxic for my body. Now that the treatment is over, hopeully I can eat again! Yea! They also ran a bunch of blood tests so we can see what to do next.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Sunday, Feb 5th-8:07 pm Arizona Time
Jan Writes: Who stole Friday's Blog?! I mean, I know it was good, but not that great. We have our eyes out for you now, evil blog thieves! Today was a continuation of the last few days. We have an onc appointment so he can check this series of side effects, figure out what needs to be treated and how, and of course , the future game plan. Dozed much of the day so I could stay awake for the Super Bowl. Steelers fans, congratulations, your team proved themselves. Seahawks fans, well, at least everyone will think your tears are just some of that usual winter rain.

WhatsupwithJan: February 2006

WhatsupwithJan: February
Saturday 4, 2006 ,4-/ 2006 Arizona Time
Jan Writes: again. Something happened with the last one today, server down etc. Heaven forbid chemo brain, Pretty good day, just the usual side effects. I'm was able to get up and down with help from the walker, but still extremely weak.,beyound fatigue from blood cells. We missed Sandy's birthday lunch, will catch her at tht next lunch meeting.

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Thursday. February 2, 2006--6:39 pm Arizona time
Jan Writes: Happy ground hog day! Today was pretty good, all things considered. As long as I don't try to move or do a whole lot, I feel better. I'm very unstable, and hands don't work too well. Our case manager for Cigna is ordering a walker for these days when I can't walk well. The eye procedure has not net cured the eyes, but they are better. I can read and watch TV again!

WhatsupwithJan

WhatsupwithJan
Wednesday, February 1, 2006--8:04 Arizona Time
Jan writes: Today we were up early to see the optometrist, whom we liked very much.. She thoroughly explained the problem and inserted the tear duct plugs, which hopefully will at least slow things down. It' s a little better so far. We'll test them out for a week, and if they work, we'll put in permanent plugs. The early rising and all the side-effects have left me weak, tired, and physically unstable. I'm a total hazard when walking, especially if carrying water. Can't tell you how many times I've spilled drinks the past few days! The peripheral neuropathy also affects my hands, making it diffiulct to write accurately; please excuse typos for awhile, as I don't aways catch them. Today the suns gave us a scare, put then pulled it together to finish off the road trip on a high note. Pat was announcing the last home for the Ironwood Girls' Soccer Team, so he had to sacrifice the game for higher priorities. GO, IRONWOOD!