Happy New Year's Eve to everyone. Jerry is resting comfortably at mom & dad's house and looks way better than he has in days. His spirits are high and his attitude is great- he even has an appetite!
He'll be staying in Iowa until tomorrow mid-day where he will then head back to KC for an appt on Friday at KU Med.
We are working feverishly to get him an appointment at MD Anderson next week (or ASAP if can't be next week). Between Tanya and I, we'll get him in there lickety split! Shoot, if nothing else, the doctor's offices will be so annoyed with our frequent calling, they will jump all over getting him scheduled just so we'll stop calling (our Master Plan is working!).
We have gathered a lot of good information on travel, lodging and Cancer assistance programs that should help us out once he gets down to Texas.
We hope everyone has a safe New Years Eve tonight. Be safe, happy and we'll talk to you in the New Year. :)
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Contact Info
Since it's been awhile since we posted this information, I thought I'd put it back on the blog for easier reference if anyone needs it.
If you need to contact any of us, please use the following numbers:
Marilyn (mom)
(319) 331-6162
Sherri (sister)
(310) 595-4045
If you need to contact any of us, please use the following numbers:
Marilyn (mom)
(319) 331-6162
Sherri (sister)
(310) 595-4045
Heading Home
Good News! Jerry is being released from the University of Iowa hospital this afternoon! He'll be out of there between 2:00 - 3:00 pm this afternoon.
He's feeling better and excited to be out of the hospital at last!
He's feeling better and excited to be out of the hospital at last!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Hospital Information and Good Wishes
So, a few people have asked where Jerry is in the hospital so they can send stuff to him. At this point, he is still at the University of Iowa, but (hopefully) will not be there much longer.
Your best bet on sending cards and such is to send them to our parents house. This way, he is sure to receive them.
Currently, he is in room 6105, Bed 2 in 6 Roy Carver East at the University of Iowa.
Mom and dad's address is:
2292 Highway 965 NE
North Liberty, IA 52317
Your best bet on sending cards and such is to send them to our parents house. This way, he is sure to receive them.
Currently, he is in room 6105, Bed 2 in 6 Roy Carver East at the University of Iowa.
Mom and dad's address is:
2292 Highway 965 NE
North Liberty, IA 52317
Armed Guards-never a good sign
Last night we managed to get Jerry moved to a different room and away from Mr. Gummy his room mate. He was able to enjoy a quiet night alone in a room with no other patients around him.
Today, brought freezing rain, colder temps, some updated news and a new roommate for Jer.
First, the doctor came in and updated everyone. They are STILL waiting on stuff from KU (darn bad timing with the holidays) and hope to have stuff by Monday. They are trying to get Jerry's pain managed and under control so they can send him home. At this point, that is why they are keeping him in the hospital - to manage his pain. They are going to try him on a pill part time today and try to wean him off the stronger pain meds he is currently on. If he can tolerate that, make it thru the night and tomorrow morning, then they will send him home with the pain pill to manage on his own.
Tomorrow or Monday, the University Oncology team is supposed to come talk with him about treatment options, next steps and whether they think any additional tests should be run at this point before starting any kind of treatment. He is still looking at checking out MD Anderson, however, now he is considering the UofI as a treatment center too. Gma Margie and the Doctor both said they have an excellent new state of the art Cancer Center that has achieved great results and is known throughout the nation (in fact, Dr. Shadette his KC doc said UoI is an excellent option). So, more options to weigh and figure out and decide what to do. At least at UoI, he can be surrounded more easily by family and friends and have the familarity of home. All in all, it will depend on where Jerry feels more comfortable and where he can get the best treatment.
Grandma Margie also looked at his films and said they look good and that she feels very positive on how the doctors are treating him and that the outlook could be very good for him. She said that depending on what the cancer turns out to be, with his age group; the criteria that he already falls into - he could have an 80-90% survival rate. (we LOVED to hear THAT). Always nice to have a family member in the medical profession that can look at these and tell us like it is. :)
This afternoon, Jerry got a room mate in his new room. We all went downstairs to allow JR to nap for a bit, and upon returning, he has a suite mate. Not just your average suite mate mind you- a patient under guard. Appears our little Jerry's room mate is a criminal of some kind. There were two armed guards in the room (one was HUUUUGE, like Walter Payton huge). Not sure at this point if the guards will have to remain 24/7, what the crime is or anything else - but ... seems we got him away from Mr. Gummy complainer and now he has to deal with armed guards and a criminal in Bed #1. YEAHHHH!! At least he has the window bed and can facec it lying on his good side.
Thus far, today has been a good day for Jerry. He has taken a shower, shaved and is resting comfortably. He's able to sit up and just has a healthier color about him. He said both last night, and today that he hasn't felt this good in weeks- right on pain meds! :)
Today, brought freezing rain, colder temps, some updated news and a new roommate for Jer.
First, the doctor came in and updated everyone. They are STILL waiting on stuff from KU (darn bad timing with the holidays) and hope to have stuff by Monday. They are trying to get Jerry's pain managed and under control so they can send him home. At this point, that is why they are keeping him in the hospital - to manage his pain. They are going to try him on a pill part time today and try to wean him off the stronger pain meds he is currently on. If he can tolerate that, make it thru the night and tomorrow morning, then they will send him home with the pain pill to manage on his own.
Tomorrow or Monday, the University Oncology team is supposed to come talk with him about treatment options, next steps and whether they think any additional tests should be run at this point before starting any kind of treatment. He is still looking at checking out MD Anderson, however, now he is considering the UofI as a treatment center too. Gma Margie and the Doctor both said they have an excellent new state of the art Cancer Center that has achieved great results and is known throughout the nation (in fact, Dr. Shadette his KC doc said UoI is an excellent option). So, more options to weigh and figure out and decide what to do. At least at UoI, he can be surrounded more easily by family and friends and have the familarity of home. All in all, it will depend on where Jerry feels more comfortable and where he can get the best treatment.
Grandma Margie also looked at his films and said they look good and that she feels very positive on how the doctors are treating him and that the outlook could be very good for him. She said that depending on what the cancer turns out to be, with his age group; the criteria that he already falls into - he could have an 80-90% survival rate. (we LOVED to hear THAT). Always nice to have a family member in the medical profession that can look at these and tell us like it is. :)
This afternoon, Jerry got a room mate in his new room. We all went downstairs to allow JR to nap for a bit, and upon returning, he has a suite mate. Not just your average suite mate mind you- a patient under guard. Appears our little Jerry's room mate is a criminal of some kind. There were two armed guards in the room (one was HUUUUGE, like Walter Payton huge). Not sure at this point if the guards will have to remain 24/7, what the crime is or anything else - but ... seems we got him away from Mr. Gummy complainer and now he has to deal with armed guards and a criminal in Bed #1. YEAHHHH!! At least he has the window bed and can facec it lying on his good side.
Thus far, today has been a good day for Jerry. He has taken a shower, shaved and is resting comfortably. He's able to sit up and just has a healthier color about him. He said both last night, and today that he hasn't felt this good in weeks- right on pain meds! :)
Friday, December 26, 2008
Muddled Up Christmas-But We Prevailed!
I hope everyone had a great Christmas with family and friends yesterday. For those of you in the mid-west that experienced the small rain/ice storm last night- I hope everyone is safe and sound.
Jerry checked into the University of Iowa Hospital yesterday morning as he wasn't feeling very well. He was having a hard time sitting/standing/moving around and getting comfortable, so he determined it was a good idea to check things out. He left for the hospital about 10:30 am.
They told Jerry that he was dehydrated and immediately got fluids into him. They kept him overnight due to some complications that arose in conjunction with the pain medication that he is taking and wanted to run a few tests, observe him and help manage the pain.
So, Christmas was spent a bit differently around here: yes, we had dinner - albeit at 8pm and without mom, dad or Jerry; yes, we opened presents (I think the kids would have melted down if we didn't - all that temptation under the tree). We videotaped it so that mom, dad and Jer could watch it later - not the same, but helps them share it with us. My sisters, Scott and I went up to visit him about 10:30 pm and spread a little Christmas cheer in his room - Christmas tree, Margie's comfy blanket, etc. We also got to experience his fun roommate that apparently doesn't have any teeth (no joke) and likes to complain a lot - and loud. He tied with Nurse Sarah in that category. I think she was 3 doors down and it seemed like she was RIGHT next to us. GEESH.. indoor voices people- sick people trying to sleep. We loved Nurse Jennifer who didn't seem phased by us and was very cool.
Last night they ran a CAT scan of his colon and stomach area and today they are running an ultrasound in that same area just to make sure that everything is ok. He spiked a fever last night, but this morning, his fever was back to normal. He is enjoying getting the stronger pain meds, but ready to feel normal again and be back to his old self. As I believe he put it yesterday: "I'm tired of feeling so tired and ready to be normal again."
Doctors aren't sure if they are going to release him today or tomorrow - all depends on how he is feeling and how the test comes back. They have contacted KUMed to get all of his records sent here so that could help us as well in having another set of eyes checking out what's going on with Jerry.
Spirits were a bit low around here yesterday as we had to adjust to this change in what we hoped would be a great Christmas time together for everyone, but we made it thru. Jerry is resting (somewhat) comfortably in the hospital at the moment and hopefully will get to come home later this afternoon.
More later when we have additional informaiton..... take care.
Jerry checked into the University of Iowa Hospital yesterday morning as he wasn't feeling very well. He was having a hard time sitting/standing/moving around and getting comfortable, so he determined it was a good idea to check things out. He left for the hospital about 10:30 am.
They told Jerry that he was dehydrated and immediately got fluids into him. They kept him overnight due to some complications that arose in conjunction with the pain medication that he is taking and wanted to run a few tests, observe him and help manage the pain.
So, Christmas was spent a bit differently around here: yes, we had dinner - albeit at 8pm and without mom, dad or Jerry; yes, we opened presents (I think the kids would have melted down if we didn't - all that temptation under the tree). We videotaped it so that mom, dad and Jer could watch it later - not the same, but helps them share it with us. My sisters, Scott and I went up to visit him about 10:30 pm and spread a little Christmas cheer in his room - Christmas tree, Margie's comfy blanket, etc. We also got to experience his fun roommate that apparently doesn't have any teeth (no joke) and likes to complain a lot - and loud. He tied with Nurse Sarah in that category. I think she was 3 doors down and it seemed like she was RIGHT next to us. GEESH.. indoor voices people- sick people trying to sleep. We loved Nurse Jennifer who didn't seem phased by us and was very cool.
Last night they ran a CAT scan of his colon and stomach area and today they are running an ultrasound in that same area just to make sure that everything is ok. He spiked a fever last night, but this morning, his fever was back to normal. He is enjoying getting the stronger pain meds, but ready to feel normal again and be back to his old self. As I believe he put it yesterday: "I'm tired of feeling so tired and ready to be normal again."
Doctors aren't sure if they are going to release him today or tomorrow - all depends on how he is feeling and how the test comes back. They have contacted KUMed to get all of his records sent here so that could help us as well in having another set of eyes checking out what's going on with Jerry.
Spirits were a bit low around here yesterday as we had to adjust to this change in what we hoped would be a great Christmas time together for everyone, but we made it thru. Jerry is resting (somewhat) comfortably in the hospital at the moment and hopefully will get to come home later this afternoon.
More later when we have additional informaiton..... take care.
A Note From Jerry
Jerry has a note for everyone that he wanted to share with each and every one of you:
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thank you so much for your love, friendship and support over the past few weeks. I truly appreciate your phone calls, e-mails, blog comments, offers for anything and thoughts & prayers. Words can not express what everyone's outpouring of love means to me.
Love,
Jerry
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thank you so much for your love, friendship and support over the past few weeks. I truly appreciate your phone calls, e-mails, blog comments, offers for anything and thoughts & prayers. Words can not express what everyone's outpouring of love means to me.
Love,
Jerry
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Happy Holidays and a update or two..
Hope everyone is getting ready for the holidays and enjoying themselves! It's been a bit since the blog has been updated, and yes, things have been happening - but wanted to let everyone know that we haven't forgotten about you - so here is the latest.
Jerry had another biopsy last Thursday, this time on the tumor itself. We will not have any results back from this untili after the first of the year due to the hoilday and the turn around time on getting results back from the Pathologist. We won't know more on the course of treatment for another week or so. Depending on how the tests come back, and what type of tissue they determine is in the tumor, the course of action will either be Chemo treatments or Radiation treatments- or a slim possiblity of both.
We met with the doctor last Monday, the 15th and he told us why they postponed the surgery... the PET scans came back positive and they saw that the Cancer has spread to his bones. Since then, we've also found out late last week that the Cancer has also decided to spread to his Lymph Nodes (yes, the original tests said those were clear, but upon further reading of the scans, they have found Cancer there as well). So, we now have Cancer in the Liver, the Lymph Nodes and the bones - and a lovely size tumor sitting in the liver and causing some pain as well. All in all, not much fun for Jerry.
Upon asking the doctor what he thought of us getting a second opinion, he was all for it. We have done some research on the Mayo Clinic in Minneapolis and MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX (thanks Tanya!) and it looks like Jerry is leaning towards going to MD Anderson for a second opinion. His thoughts are it's exclusively a Cancer Center, and also seems that he, our father and myself all have people that have either been through there themselves or close relatives that have gone and all have benefited and liked the facility and treatment they received. So, the next step is trying to get an appointment in there and moving forward as quickly as possible.
On the personal side: Jerry, mom and dad all drove back to Iowa last Saturday, the 20th and Jerry is surrounded by family and the kiddies that were super excited to see him. He is resting about the same as he was in KC, and is now on a new pain medication which (he says) seems to help him a lot better - that in conjunction with Tylenol seem to be helping him cope. He has even managed to acquire a test for Diet Coke again (in moderation, but it's there!).
Today he is trying a different method of relaxation: a full body massage! So, we'll see if that helps him out and hopefully, enable him to enjoy the upcoming holidays with a smile of good rest and no pain.
As of now, not sure how long Jerry will stay in North Liberty, IA - all depends on if any doctor appointments pop up, or a need to get to KC or MD Anderson comes sooner than later - but we'll keep you all posted on that.
All in all- we are still in this fight, and stronger than ever! Here's hoping that everyone has a safe, warm and fantastic holidays and we'll "talk" to you soon!
Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukkah & Happy Holidays!
Love,
Us
Jerry had another biopsy last Thursday, this time on the tumor itself. We will not have any results back from this untili after the first of the year due to the hoilday and the turn around time on getting results back from the Pathologist. We won't know more on the course of treatment for another week or so. Depending on how the tests come back, and what type of tissue they determine is in the tumor, the course of action will either be Chemo treatments or Radiation treatments- or a slim possiblity of both.
We met with the doctor last Monday, the 15th and he told us why they postponed the surgery... the PET scans came back positive and they saw that the Cancer has spread to his bones. Since then, we've also found out late last week that the Cancer has also decided to spread to his Lymph Nodes (yes, the original tests said those were clear, but upon further reading of the scans, they have found Cancer there as well). So, we now have Cancer in the Liver, the Lymph Nodes and the bones - and a lovely size tumor sitting in the liver and causing some pain as well. All in all, not much fun for Jerry.
Upon asking the doctor what he thought of us getting a second opinion, he was all for it. We have done some research on the Mayo Clinic in Minneapolis and MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX (thanks Tanya!) and it looks like Jerry is leaning towards going to MD Anderson for a second opinion. His thoughts are it's exclusively a Cancer Center, and also seems that he, our father and myself all have people that have either been through there themselves or close relatives that have gone and all have benefited and liked the facility and treatment they received. So, the next step is trying to get an appointment in there and moving forward as quickly as possible.
On the personal side: Jerry, mom and dad all drove back to Iowa last Saturday, the 20th and Jerry is surrounded by family and the kiddies that were super excited to see him. He is resting about the same as he was in KC, and is now on a new pain medication which (he says) seems to help him a lot better - that in conjunction with Tylenol seem to be helping him cope. He has even managed to acquire a test for Diet Coke again (in moderation, but it's there!).
Today he is trying a different method of relaxation: a full body massage! So, we'll see if that helps him out and hopefully, enable him to enjoy the upcoming holidays with a smile of good rest and no pain.
As of now, not sure how long Jerry will stay in North Liberty, IA - all depends on if any doctor appointments pop up, or a need to get to KC or MD Anderson comes sooner than later - but we'll keep you all posted on that.
All in all- we are still in this fight, and stronger than ever! Here's hoping that everyone has a safe, warm and fantastic holidays and we'll "talk" to you soon!
Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukkah & Happy Holidays!
Love,
Us
Monday, December 15, 2008
And Around the Ring We Go Again..
As many of you probably already saw, we didn't have the surgery for Jerry this morning.
Unfortunately, the PET scan came back this morning and the tumor/Cancer has metastasised in the bones. They have noticed 3 anomalies in the bones and are having the radiologist and oncologist verify the diagnosis. For now, the surgery has been postponed indefinitely.
In the meantime, they will do a biopsy on the tumor to determine what TYPE of tumor is in the liver: A Bile Duct Tumor or a Liver Cell Tumor, or a combination of both. This result will determine the treatment that they do.
For now, they are managing the pain (which is still ever present) and may embolize the tumor to help with the pain and bleeding within it. Most likely, there will be several rounds of Chemotherapy in the future. Radiation MAY be a possiblity, but again, depends on the results from the biopsy.
Nothing will be determined until after the first of the year as it will take time to get pathology results, schedule treatments and get doctor opinions back. We are also looking into obtaining a second opinion.
Lots still up in the air .. but manageable and still positive.
Jerry wants everyone to know that he appreciates the flood of support that he has received from everyone and the positive outflowing of love, friendship and assistance. Please know that he is around at home, however, the next few days he is taking a few "quiet" days to try and process all of this and determine what his next steps will be.
Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Us
Unfortunately, the PET scan came back this morning and the tumor/Cancer has metastasised in the bones. They have noticed 3 anomalies in the bones and are having the radiologist and oncologist verify the diagnosis. For now, the surgery has been postponed indefinitely.
In the meantime, they will do a biopsy on the tumor to determine what TYPE of tumor is in the liver: A Bile Duct Tumor or a Liver Cell Tumor, or a combination of both. This result will determine the treatment that they do.
For now, they are managing the pain (which is still ever present) and may embolize the tumor to help with the pain and bleeding within it. Most likely, there will be several rounds of Chemotherapy in the future. Radiation MAY be a possiblity, but again, depends on the results from the biopsy.
Nothing will be determined until after the first of the year as it will take time to get pathology results, schedule treatments and get doctor opinions back. We are also looking into obtaining a second opinion.
Lots still up in the air .. but manageable and still positive.
Jerry wants everyone to know that he appreciates the flood of support that he has received from everyone and the positive outflowing of love, friendship and assistance. Please know that he is around at home, however, the next few days he is taking a few "quiet" days to try and process all of this and determine what his next steps will be.
Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Us
The Hits Keep Coming...
So, it looks like there will be no surgery today.... unfortunately, the PET scans came back positive this morning and the Doctor doesn't think it's a good idea to do surgery at this point.
We don't have any more information at this point - but will let everyone know as soon as the Docter calls back with the next steps in this saga.
Keep praying and check back later for more informaiton.
We don't have any more information at this point - but will let everyone know as soon as the Docter calls back with the next steps in this saga.
Keep praying and check back later for more informaiton.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Surgery Information
Jerry's surgery will be at 12:00 pm on Monday, December 15th at KUMed (same hospital he was in at the beginning of the month). He will be checked into the hospital around 10:00 am. If something opens up earlier in the day, he might be able to get into the morning slot, but for now, he's set at noon.
I will attempt to update the blog throughout the surgery as possible. But for sure, we'll post something Monday night after the surgery has completed. Keep in mind the surgery is approximately 7-8 hours long, so there may not be much to report until later in the evening.
The family will be at the hospital and we should have cell reception while there (not sure the hospitals' policy on cell phone useage or anything). You can try Marilyn (mom) at (319) 331-6162 or me at (310) 595-4045 or sherri.cahill@napster.com (gotta love the technology age and blackberry).
Keep up those positive thoughts and prayers and we are in the final stretch here.
~ Sherri
I will attempt to update the blog throughout the surgery as possible. But for sure, we'll post something Monday night after the surgery has completed. Keep in mind the surgery is approximately 7-8 hours long, so there may not be much to report until later in the evening.
The family will be at the hospital and we should have cell reception while there (not sure the hospitals' policy on cell phone useage or anything). You can try Marilyn (mom) at (319) 331-6162 or me at (310) 595-4045 or sherri.cahill@napster.com (gotta love the technology age and blackberry).
Keep up those positive thoughts and prayers and we are in the final stretch here.
~ Sherri
WOO Woo WOO Woo WOO!
Ok, so for those of you that know our dad, you will understand THAT chant (and imagine the jig that goes along with it) ... for those of you that don't.. apologies - but let's say it's a GREAT thing - much along the lines of an ecstatic cheer or shouts of joy.
Yes, that's right - some good news in all this calamity that has befallen Jerry the past few weeks.
Today Jerry received the results from his biopsy last Friday as well as the results from yesterday's bone scan. Still waiting on the PET results from today.
Drum Roll please.......
Lymph Node Biopsy: ALL CLEAR. NEGATIVE. No Cancer cells AT ALL. In case you don't quite understand: THE CANCER HAS NOT SPREAD! It is no where else in Jerry's body. AMEN to THAT!
Body Scan: ALL CLEAR. Bones were great. (I won't bore you with the terminology or anything)
So, spirits are high and things are looking up! Yeah BABY!
Yes, that's right - some good news in all this calamity that has befallen Jerry the past few weeks.
Today Jerry received the results from his biopsy last Friday as well as the results from yesterday's bone scan. Still waiting on the PET results from today.
Drum Roll please.......
Lymph Node Biopsy: ALL CLEAR. NEGATIVE. No Cancer cells AT ALL. In case you don't quite understand: THE CANCER HAS NOT SPREAD! It is no where else in Jerry's body. AMEN to THAT!
Body Scan: ALL CLEAR. Bones were great. (I won't bore you with the terminology or anything)
So, spirits are high and things are looking up! Yeah BABY!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
The Whirling Dervish of Change
Well, no sooner did I post that last update and things changed ...
Jerry is going in for a bone scan tomorrow afternoon and then a PET scan on Friday morning. Both will be outpatient procedures, so no re-admittance to the hospital necessary.
Jerry's regular doctor phoned to check in on him and when he discovered how much pain he was in as well as the fact that the oncologist and other docs hadn't yet scheduled him for the Chemotherapy, he took a stand, decided that he'd had enough of all this and that he wants to move forward with the surgery (as originally planned). He feels that if they do the chemo, wait one month and then do a CT scan and still possibly have to do the surgery -it's too much on Jerry and his body - and especially with the amount of pain that he is in - so it's off to surgery we go... and boy did he fast track it.
They are in the process of scheduling Jerry for surgery, but we do know for certain that he will have surgery on the liver tumor on Monday, December 15th. The time is yet to be confirmed, but hopefully, the morning surgery slot (8 or 8:30 am). He will be back at KU Med for the surgery and recovery.
Once the surgery is complete, Jerry will be in the hosptial for at least one week before being released.
That is all I know at this point - more to come as things fall into place.
Love,
Sherri
Jerry is going in for a bone scan tomorrow afternoon and then a PET scan on Friday morning. Both will be outpatient procedures, so no re-admittance to the hospital necessary.
Jerry's regular doctor phoned to check in on him and when he discovered how much pain he was in as well as the fact that the oncologist and other docs hadn't yet scheduled him for the Chemotherapy, he took a stand, decided that he'd had enough of all this and that he wants to move forward with the surgery (as originally planned). He feels that if they do the chemo, wait one month and then do a CT scan and still possibly have to do the surgery -it's too much on Jerry and his body - and especially with the amount of pain that he is in - so it's off to surgery we go... and boy did he fast track it.
They are in the process of scheduling Jerry for surgery, but we do know for certain that he will have surgery on the liver tumor on Monday, December 15th. The time is yet to be confirmed, but hopefully, the morning surgery slot (8 or 8:30 am). He will be back at KU Med for the surgery and recovery.
Once the surgery is complete, Jerry will be in the hosptial for at least one week before being released.
That is all I know at this point - more to come as things fall into place.
Love,
Sherri
Do Doctors Intentionally Stall?
We heard from the doctor on Tuesday morning, however, we were hoping for more information by the end of the day yesterday or first thing today- no such luck. So here is the latest “progress” report on Jerry.
They will not have the pathology results from the biopsy until the end of this week, perhaps early next week, however, the oncologist, liver specialists and doctors all consulted Monday afternoon and have decided on a different course of action. They are still planning on doing a bone scan within the next week or so, and may do a few additional tests that they deem necessary.
The big change is that instead of performing surgery on the tumor and removing over 60% of the liver, they have opted to go for Chemotherapy. Yes, I said Chemo. The type of Chemo they are planning on is called “Chemo-C” or Concentrated Chemotherapy. This means that Jerry will have one bout of Chemo (at most 2 if necessary) and the chemo is injected directly into the tumor. They are hoping to shrink the tumor as much as possible. They say there is no hair loss or other major side effects with this type- that patients often feel like they have the flu for a few days, and that’s about it.
They are trying to figure out when they can get him in for the chemo- sometime in the next 2 weeks or so, depending on all the doctors schedules involved. He will for sure have this treatment done by the end of the year. This is the hold up right now in trying to get him into the hospital and on the schedule.
After the bout of Chemo, they will then wait approx. one month and do another CT scan to see how the tumor has progressed/shrunk. The next step after that MAY be to do a liver transplant at that time. If they tumor hasn’t shrunk enough for them to do the transplant, then they will go in and do the original surgery of removing a percentage of the liver housing the tumor and the area around the tumor. At this point, the earliest Jerry would have surgery (of any kind) would be mid-late January.
It’s not expected that he should have to return to the hospital, other than for the Chemo treatment and bone scans – and will be at home. Not sure at this point if he can return to work yet – I think that will depend upon how the treatment goes and how he reacts.
Jerry goes in to see his regular doctor tomorrow and hopefully at that time, they will be able to determine when they can get him in for the Chemo. If not, heads will start crackin’ as they are dragging their feet too long. ;)
The last few days for Jerry have been hard. The pain is still ever present and the pain meds only do so much. The pain is making it difficult for him to sleep and of course, this waiting game isn’t helping any - but he is hanging in there with a pretty positive attitude.
That's all for now. Keep your thoughts and spirits up for Jerry and we'll let you know more once we know more.
They will not have the pathology results from the biopsy until the end of this week, perhaps early next week, however, the oncologist, liver specialists and doctors all consulted Monday afternoon and have decided on a different course of action. They are still planning on doing a bone scan within the next week or so, and may do a few additional tests that they deem necessary.
The big change is that instead of performing surgery on the tumor and removing over 60% of the liver, they have opted to go for Chemotherapy. Yes, I said Chemo. The type of Chemo they are planning on is called “Chemo-C” or Concentrated Chemotherapy. This means that Jerry will have one bout of Chemo (at most 2 if necessary) and the chemo is injected directly into the tumor. They are hoping to shrink the tumor as much as possible. They say there is no hair loss or other major side effects with this type- that patients often feel like they have the flu for a few days, and that’s about it.
They are trying to figure out when they can get him in for the chemo- sometime in the next 2 weeks or so, depending on all the doctors schedules involved. He will for sure have this treatment done by the end of the year. This is the hold up right now in trying to get him into the hospital and on the schedule.
After the bout of Chemo, they will then wait approx. one month and do another CT scan to see how the tumor has progressed/shrunk. The next step after that MAY be to do a liver transplant at that time. If they tumor hasn’t shrunk enough for them to do the transplant, then they will go in and do the original surgery of removing a percentage of the liver housing the tumor and the area around the tumor. At this point, the earliest Jerry would have surgery (of any kind) would be mid-late January.
It’s not expected that he should have to return to the hospital, other than for the Chemo treatment and bone scans – and will be at home. Not sure at this point if he can return to work yet – I think that will depend upon how the treatment goes and how he reacts.
Jerry goes in to see his regular doctor tomorrow and hopefully at that time, they will be able to determine when they can get him in for the Chemo. If not, heads will start crackin’ as they are dragging their feet too long. ;)
The last few days for Jerry have been hard. The pain is still ever present and the pain meds only do so much. The pain is making it difficult for him to sleep and of course, this waiting game isn’t helping any - but he is hanging in there with a pretty positive attitude.
That's all for now. Keep your thoughts and spirits up for Jerry and we'll let you know more once we know more.
Monday, December 8, 2008
The Waiting Game
Well, Jerry has been resting at home this weekend and enjoying lots of home cooked foods. I will say that he has been very tired and doing a lot of sleeping. Good? bad? Worse? He's feeling the pain these days, but thanks to Modern medicine and pain killers, he is able to function and make it through the days.
No word today from the doctore with the bioopsy results, so looks like tomorrow will be our results day. Fingers crossed it happens early and we get the news and can move on.
A heartfelt thanks to everyone that stopped over this weekend and/or has called or e-mailed to check up on Jerry this past week. Your thoughts, calls, well wishes and prayers are appreciated by Jerry and everyone in the Cahill family.
No word today from the doctore with the bioopsy results, so looks like tomorrow will be our results day. Fingers crossed it happens early and we get the news and can move on.
A heartfelt thanks to everyone that stopped over this weekend and/or has called or e-mailed to check up on Jerry this past week. Your thoughts, calls, well wishes and prayers are appreciated by Jerry and everyone in the Cahill family.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Come One, Come All
Jerry is enjoying time at home and knows that many of you wanted to stop by and visit him in the hospital but either missed him once he checked out, or didn't want to intrude on all the chaos... sooooo... Jerry wanted to let everyone know that is going to have an Open House this weekend for people to stop by and visit.
Please feel free to come to Jerry's house and say hi, catch up and have a few laughs. (why do I feel like a Circus Barker just then? hmmm)
Saturday, December 6th 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 7th 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Jerry's Address:
207 W. 81st St.
Kansas City, MO 64114
Have a great weekend, and please feel free to stop by Jerry's if you are able/want to.
Please feel free to come to Jerry's house and say hi, catch up and have a few laughs. (why do I feel like a Circus Barker just then? hmmm)
Saturday, December 6th 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 7th 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Jerry's Address:
207 W. 81st St.
Kansas City, MO 64114
Have a great weekend, and please feel free to stop by Jerry's if you are able/want to.
Friday, December 5, 2008
No More Tests.. For Now
Today was the final bout of tests (as of now, and hopefully no more).
Jerry went in for his biopsy this morning at the crack of light and was in there for about 2 hours. They can't say much about how they think it went - you know Doctors and their vague ways, but we should have some results back by Monday..Tuesday at the latest.
For now, Jerry is at home resting and catching up on sleep. Reports from mom and dad say he's in good spirits and just extremely tired. He'll be home until they decide on surgery next week.
More later if anything changes.
Jerry went in for his biopsy this morning at the crack of light and was in there for about 2 hours. They can't say much about how they think it went - you know Doctors and their vague ways, but we should have some results back by Monday..Tuesday at the latest.
For now, Jerry is at home resting and catching up on sleep. Reports from mom and dad say he's in good spirits and just extremely tired. He'll be home until they decide on surgery next week.
More later if anything changes.
A Trip Home
Today was a pretty good day... the final hours of the afternoon being the best of all for Jer.
After the surgeons and the doctors consulted each other this morning and went over the results of the upper chest scan, they did decide to postpone surgery until next week, in the meantime they are doing a biopsy of the lymphnodes in the chest tomorrow morning (Friday) and the pathology results for that should be available by Monday. We are stiill planning to run a PET scan, and a full body bone scan - with any luck we can get one or both of those done tomorrow (Friday) afternoon, if not which ever of the two scans is not completed Friday afternoon will be done Monday or Tuesday - its all about scheduling. So we should have results for all 3 test then by Monday, Tuesday at the latest - we're guessing at this point that surgery to remove the tumor in the liver will likely not take place until Wednesday at the earliest. The good news is Jerry did get to check out of the hospital today and other than for the remaining tests will hopefully not have to return until the surgery is scheduled and get to spend the weekend at home.
...Showers at home, no medicinal smell, no nurses/doctors poking and proding at all hours and of course: home cooked meals prepared by MaryFace..... (I think I heard the jubilent cry of Jerry when Tuna Patties appeared on the menu) ....ahhh... the life.
After the surgeons and the doctors consulted each other this morning and went over the results of the upper chest scan, they did decide to postpone surgery until next week, in the meantime they are doing a biopsy of the lymphnodes in the chest tomorrow morning (Friday) and the pathology results for that should be available by Monday. We are stiill planning to run a PET scan, and a full body bone scan - with any luck we can get one or both of those done tomorrow (Friday) afternoon, if not which ever of the two scans is not completed Friday afternoon will be done Monday or Tuesday - its all about scheduling. So we should have results for all 3 test then by Monday, Tuesday at the latest - we're guessing at this point that surgery to remove the tumor in the liver will likely not take place until Wednesday at the earliest. The good news is Jerry did get to check out of the hospital today and other than for the remaining tests will hopefully not have to return until the surgery is scheduled and get to spend the weekend at home.
...Showers at home, no medicinal smell, no nurses/doctors poking and proding at all hours and of course: home cooked meals prepared by MaryFace..... (I think I heard the jubilent cry of Jerry when Tuna Patties appeared on the menu) ....ahhh... the life.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
More Tests To Run and a Brief Respite
As the blanket of snow fell over Kansas City, we got the latest update on Jerry tonight:
Well- the doctor finally made it in to see Jerry tonight about 7pm after his transplant surgery. While he was only in there for a brief time, he did give him a lot of information on what is to come in the near future.
First, Jerry has to have a bone scan on Thursday just to ensure that nothing has metasticized (sorry if I spelled that wrong) - the doctor is positive it's good and that this is just a precautionary measure to dot their "i"s and cross the "t"s.
Secondly, it looks like they want to run a biopsy on Jerry's Lymph nodes as one of his is swollen. Again, the don't seem to think this is anything, but want to rule out EVERYTHING before they continue down the surgery path. They don't seem to think that Cancer or tumors have spread anywhere else, but they are playing it on the safe side just to be sure. Unfortunately, they need to find time in the hospital schedules to get him in to do the biopsy - it might be tomorrow, it might be Friday. At any rate, they can not move forward with the surgery until the results from the biopsy come back.. and that will take a few days. Monday will be the earliest they would have results back from these tests.
Sooooo... no surgery this week. It is postponed until next week sometime - mid/late week - all depending on when the biopsy can be done, and when the tests come in.
On the PLUS side with all of this, it looks like they may release Jer for a few days after he gets the biopsy done and until the results come back - WOOHOO! Jerry was very excited for this bit of news as it means he is sprung from the hospital for a few days- for sure over the weekend he'll be resting at home. :)
.... be sure that Jerry enjoyed his pain meds this evening as he thought of sleeping in his own bed and in his own house even if for a brief period....
Well- the doctor finally made it in to see Jerry tonight about 7pm after his transplant surgery. While he was only in there for a brief time, he did give him a lot of information on what is to come in the near future.
First, Jerry has to have a bone scan on Thursday just to ensure that nothing has metasticized (sorry if I spelled that wrong) - the doctor is positive it's good and that this is just a precautionary measure to dot their "i"s and cross the "t"s.
Secondly, it looks like they want to run a biopsy on Jerry's Lymph nodes as one of his is swollen. Again, the don't seem to think this is anything, but want to rule out EVERYTHING before they continue down the surgery path. They don't seem to think that Cancer or tumors have spread anywhere else, but they are playing it on the safe side just to be sure. Unfortunately, they need to find time in the hospital schedules to get him in to do the biopsy - it might be tomorrow, it might be Friday. At any rate, they can not move forward with the surgery until the results from the biopsy come back.. and that will take a few days. Monday will be the earliest they would have results back from these tests.
Sooooo... no surgery this week. It is postponed until next week sometime - mid/late week - all depending on when the biopsy can be done, and when the tests come in.
On the PLUS side with all of this, it looks like they may release Jer for a few days after he gets the biopsy done and until the results come back - WOOHOO! Jerry was very excited for this bit of news as it means he is sprung from the hospital for a few days- for sure over the weekend he'll be resting at home. :)
.... be sure that Jerry enjoyed his pain meds this evening as he thought of sleeping in his own bed and in his own house even if for a brief period....
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
The Stress Test
Last night, the nurse brought in an EKG maching for Jerry to monitor his heart and let's just say he was a little excited to be getting one: "Cool! I've never had one."
Today, Jerry has had to have what the doctor's call a series of "stress tests". Since the surgery will last approx. 7 hours, they need to make sure his heart and other organs are functioning well and will be able to withstand the "stress" of the surgery. He had one test this mornig and passed it with flying colors! They took him in early afternoon for the second part of the stress test, and he believes everything went well with that too.
Mom has been with him all morning and even brought him a supply of Diet Coke and chocolate donuts so he doesn't have to suffer thru the hospital food! He is very excited to get his tests done so he can eat - as of 12:30 pm he was STARVING!
The doctor says that after they have completed these tests and get the results, they will be able to tell further when they can perform the surgery. Right now, they are shooting for Friday (12/5) afternoon.
Currently, he is resting comfortably this evening, thanks in part to pain meds, and even managed to surf the internet a bit this afternoon. Mom and dad are both up there with him now.
The doctor had to perform a transplant today, so as of 5:00 pm CST there was no update as the doc was still in surgery with no indication of how long he might be. That's all for today.... as of now at least.....
Today, Jerry has had to have what the doctor's call a series of "stress tests". Since the surgery will last approx. 7 hours, they need to make sure his heart and other organs are functioning well and will be able to withstand the "stress" of the surgery. He had one test this mornig and passed it with flying colors! They took him in early afternoon for the second part of the stress test, and he believes everything went well with that too.
Mom has been with him all morning and even brought him a supply of Diet Coke and chocolate donuts so he doesn't have to suffer thru the hospital food! He is very excited to get his tests done so he can eat - as of 12:30 pm he was STARVING!
The doctor says that after they have completed these tests and get the results, they will be able to tell further when they can perform the surgery. Right now, they are shooting for Friday (12/5) afternoon.
Currently, he is resting comfortably this evening, thanks in part to pain meds, and even managed to surf the internet a bit this afternoon. Mom and dad are both up there with him now.
The doctor had to perform a transplant today, so as of 5:00 pm CST there was no update as the doc was still in surgery with no indication of how long he might be. That's all for today.... as of now at least.....
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Hospital Information
Jerry is currently at The University of Kansas Hospital (KU Med).
General visiting hours are 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
The University of Kansas Hospital
3901 Rainbow Blvd.
Kansas City, Kansas 66160-7220
(913) 588-1227
http://www.kumed.com/
For the moment, he is in room 5314, Bed 2
General visiting hours are 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
The University of Kansas Hospital
3901 Rainbow Blvd.
Kansas City, Kansas 66160-7220
(913) 588-1227
http://www.kumed.com/
For the moment, he is in room 5314, Bed 2
The First News
We wanted to keep everyone updated on Jerry, and since we are in the "digital age", we thought we would give this Blog a try. Hopefully, everyone will find it as informative and useful as our initial thoughts.
For those of you that don't know the whole story, Jerry had been experiencing back pain for about the last week or so. Didn't think much of it, as he had been moving furniture, learning a new job and holiday stress (yes, we all have it). However, as Thanksgiving week went on, the back ache got worse and he was not his usual self - although, he put up a valiant effort at it.
Monday morning Jerry went into the hospital ER as he was still in extreme pain and his back wasn't getting any better. They ran a full battery of tests on him from blood panels and urine tests to CAT scans and MRIs. All came back clear and fine ... yet the doctors still didn't know what was causing his pain or how to fix it. They kept him overnight for observation and to run additional test this morning (Tuesday).
Today, the doctor came back with the news of what was causing Jerry's pain: He has a tumor the size of a softball in his liver, and they believe it is cancerous. It has apparently burst on its own and is bleeding internally - although, apparently not bleeding that will harm Jerry in any way. Due to the size of the tumor, they do not want to wait and do a liver transplant - too much time due to Chemo and such to shrink the tumor before doing a transplant - so they have opted to perform surgery and will remove about 60% of his liver. They seem very positive with this option, and while there are complications (as with any surgery) the ones associated with this operation range from 1-2% I'm told.
The doctors will be running some additional tests on him over the next few days to prep him for the surgery and make sure everything is in good condition for the operation. As of now, they are planning on doing the surgery either Thursday or Friday afternoon. We won't know more until Wednesday mid-day. The surgery will take approx. 7 hours and once complete, will require Jerry to remain in the hospital for approx. one week; with rest at home following for about 2-3 weeks - all could change depending on how quickly/slowly Jerry heals.
Jerry will be in the hospital for about the next week or so as they prepare him for surgery and then as he recovers from surgery.
We will keep everyone updated on this as we get any news. Please check back regularly for more news - and you are welcome to post comments/thoughts/prayers for Jerry on this site as well.
Thank you and know that Jerry loves you all (yes, he does!) and we love you as well.
God Bless and Stay Strong,
Sherri
For those of you that don't know the whole story, Jerry had been experiencing back pain for about the last week or so. Didn't think much of it, as he had been moving furniture, learning a new job and holiday stress (yes, we all have it). However, as Thanksgiving week went on, the back ache got worse and he was not his usual self - although, he put up a valiant effort at it.
Monday morning Jerry went into the hospital ER as he was still in extreme pain and his back wasn't getting any better. They ran a full battery of tests on him from blood panels and urine tests to CAT scans and MRIs. All came back clear and fine ... yet the doctors still didn't know what was causing his pain or how to fix it. They kept him overnight for observation and to run additional test this morning (Tuesday).
Today, the doctor came back with the news of what was causing Jerry's pain: He has a tumor the size of a softball in his liver, and they believe it is cancerous. It has apparently burst on its own and is bleeding internally - although, apparently not bleeding that will harm Jerry in any way. Due to the size of the tumor, they do not want to wait and do a liver transplant - too much time due to Chemo and such to shrink the tumor before doing a transplant - so they have opted to perform surgery and will remove about 60% of his liver. They seem very positive with this option, and while there are complications (as with any surgery) the ones associated with this operation range from 1-2% I'm told.
The doctors will be running some additional tests on him over the next few days to prep him for the surgery and make sure everything is in good condition for the operation. As of now, they are planning on doing the surgery either Thursday or Friday afternoon. We won't know more until Wednesday mid-day. The surgery will take approx. 7 hours and once complete, will require Jerry to remain in the hospital for approx. one week; with rest at home following for about 2-3 weeks - all could change depending on how quickly/slowly Jerry heals.
Jerry will be in the hospital for about the next week or so as they prepare him for surgery and then as he recovers from surgery.
We will keep everyone updated on this as we get any news. Please check back regularly for more news - and you are welcome to post comments/thoughts/prayers for Jerry on this site as well.
Thank you and know that Jerry loves you all (yes, he does!) and we love you as well.
God Bless and Stay Strong,
Sherri
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
