The Family

At Christmas we received a collection of photos of our girls and their families. No need for words...

Braden

Trent

Teagan

The Jones Family

The Cossey Family

Braden, Teagan, Trent & Carter

Braden, Teagan, Trent & Carter

Christmas began at home in League City. After a quick present opening session we loaded the car and truck and took off. Brittany and I stopped at MD Anderson to drop off some treats for the nursing staff on the 4th floor. They took such good care of me me (and Ginger) when I was sick.

We met Ginger at Buc-ee's in Madisonville and caravaned to Heath. Christmas night at the Fontenot's was as special as ever. For me this was year number 22. Below is a picture my niece Hayley and Brittany. They have grown into beautiful young ladies.

I clearly remember a year ago wondering if I had another Christmas coming. Today, I don't look too far ahead. I really do try to enjoy the day at hand. I really enjoyed this day...

Merry Christmas!

All Clear!

I had my nine-month checkup at MD Anderson yesterday. They gave me another all-clear. I'm good to go for another six months. Hopefully I'll be on the annual plan after that. Thanks to everyone for your prayers and good wishes.

East Texas Valley

A cold front blows into south Texas...

Driving home yesterday I saw this beautiful cold front overhead and had to stop and take a picture. It's blowing through the Gulf Coast now, bringing snow and freezing temperatures. Guess Ginger and I have to stay in, watch movies, drink wine...

Where have I been?

No excuses! I've just been lazy about posting to my blog.

We spent Thanksgiving at the Fontenot's. As always the food was amazing. Brittany spent the holiday with us; Adrianne & Alison were in Calabash. Football was pretty good. UT beat A&M, Tech beat Baylor and the Cowboys beat (down) the Raiders. The perfect ending was on Monday night when the Saints hammered the Patriots with Drew Brees showing Marsha...uh...Tom Brady who the best QB in the NFL is.

My one regret for November is not being able to attend the San Antonio Marathon. My friend Ed Nagle invited me to volunteer with the Cancer Society. I was just too worn down from travel to make the trip. Some day I'll be back at full strength...

My six-month checkup is two week's away. I'm not at all nervous and I'm really looking forward to seeing my medical team. Dr. Kamat won't be there but everyone else should be. I don't have to do all those invasive tests like before so it should be an easy visit. Don't get me wrong! I don't take my health and good fortune for granted at all. But I'm not going to sit around and whine or worry about what might be. The quote below keeps me focused...

"The remarkable thing about fearing God is that when you fear God you fear nothing else, whereas if you do not fear God you fear everything else."

Happy Holidays!

As you can see by the picture winter has arrived in Frisco...

Third Day In Concert

Ginger and I went to see Third Day Friday night. IT WAS AMAZING! We sat four rows from the stage, dead center. We could have sat in the front row but were concerned about the volume. Before the show I met the band in the meet'n'greet area. We had VIP passes. After the show we hung out with the band back in the meet'n'greet area. Mac Powell (lead singer) was kind enough to take a picture with us.

The highlight of the evening was us adopting a little boy in Rwanda. His name is Jean Marie. We've committed to helping feed him. Hopefully we'll get to write and even meet him some day.

The view from our seats...

Hanging out with Mac...

"THIEF"

(excuse the audio...turn down the volume)

My little Teagan...

Why do I have to laugh when you take pictures?

You're this close to making me mad...

I'm leaving and taking this friggin' monkey with me!

Flag Football, the sequel...

Carter attended big brother's practice too. He didn't run much... actually not at all. The little dude can't walk yet. He did hang with the girls getting hugs, kisses and Gold Fish. Emphasis on Gold Fish! The boy does not miss any meals!

Carter & Grandma Ginger
(nice shades)

Another video of Trent running, actually racing his little buddy Austin. Trent falls but jumps right back up and takes off. It is so fun being a grandpa...

Run Trent, run!

So Trent had his first flag football practice at the Frisco YMCA on Saturday. These kids are so cute. If you tell them to run you better also tell them when to stop.

Happy Birthday Ginger!

Last night we gave Ginger a surprise birthday party. Here's the video showing her reaction.

This party was in the planning for two months but we did manage to keep it a secret. I can't thank Diana & Brenda enough for their help.

Had you told me 22 years ago on the day I met Ginger I would celebrate her 50th birthday with her I would have believed you and been very happy about it...

I could almost repeat last week’s post. I traveled back through east Texas, into Louisiana and then back to League City. A pretty long week in terms of work and hours; but a good week nevertheless!

Saturday, Bay Area Running Club hosted the 9^th Annual Pub Crawl. This “event” covers 6 miles and bars, ending at the bar on Clear Lake where we celebrate by…well…drinking more. I wasn’t up to the distance but I did drive to a few spots to hang with my friends. We had a blast.

The theme this year was Woodstock’s 40^th Anniversary. Lots of folks dressed the part although most of them are too young to remember the music festival…I’m not! My club members even carried a 15 foot joint along the route, kind of like Cheech and Chong.

I’m back in Frisco this week, working from the apartment. Ginger will be up this Thursday. Can’t wait!

Some of these people actually ran...

A good week...

My week began at home in League City. On Tuesday I drove to Bossier City, LA. I always enjoy the trip through east Texas. A lot of people don’t realize how pretty the scenery is. I saw hills, pine trees, more hills, farms, ranches and some of the quaintest small towns you’ll ever see.

The roadside farmers are everywhere selling tomatoes, melons and other home-grown vegetables. Trust me, they’re worth stopping for.

I made it back to Frisco Thursday. It’s starting to feel like home (#2 of course). Ginger and Brittany arrived Thursday evening. We found a cool little seafood restaurant nearby…really good food at low prices.

Last night (Friday) Alison and the boys came by for dinner. Unfortunately I was so wiped out from the week’s activity I sat around and yawned all night. Didn’t slow Trent down though! He’s a bundle of energy all the time. Add ice cream for desert and you have a nuclear kid! He is so happy. Carter was his usual, laid back self. He always looks like he has something to say but hasn’t figured out how to talk yet.

Brittany left for Graham around 9:00PM. She’ll head for Lubbock tomorrow morning. Hard to believe she’s a junior already. What happened to high school?

Ginger and I will head back to League City tomorrow. Then another Bossier City/Tyler run for me next week. Life goes on…

The "kids" playing on the slide...

Alison & little Carter...

Carter flirting with Aunt Brittany...

Another Birthday?

It was 8 months, 7days ago (almost to the hour) when my doctor told me I had cancer. Not a day I’ll ever forget! A week later at the hospital, after surgery he changed it to really bad cancer (as if there were a really good cancer). My nurse told me to go off and become a miracle. Thinking its gong to take a miracle to survive was a little deflating.

A month later after another surgery at MD Anderson my doctor confirmed "really bad." They used words with lots of syllables like papillary, carcinoma and so on. They even scheduled me for another surgery that began with the word radical. Hmm...this is getting better?

All of the above occurred over a 6-week period. What a whirlwind!

One of my early prayers was “let me see Brittany graduate.” I was asking for two years. Seemed reasonable! Then I began to get greedy, asking for extra years to see the grandbabies grow up. They do need a grandpa!

As the days went by leading up to surgery I would not allow myself to think too far into the future because when I did a sense of disappointment and sadness set in. I had to be realistic…this was a complicated procedure that didn’t…well...you get the point!

Here I am one day before another birthday not caring too much about aging, looking forward to upcoming vacations and generally enjoying life. My immediate concern is ensuring I go to Carlos’ Beer Garden tonight for burgers and beer. That’s the “one day at a time/live for the moment” thing I’ve become accustom to. Not a bad way to live!

So…Happy Birthday to Me!

Didn’t plan on making it this far but don’t plan on leaving too soon either! Hey, that sounds like a country song.

I know it’s been a long time since I posted last. Sorry! This past month has been extremely busy. Work has been a constant stream of travel, training and inventories. I was eight weeks behind when I returned so I’ve been playing catch-up. Things will get easier once we move into our Frisco apartment.

Speaking of Frisco…what a perfect segue. We move tomorrow! Friends are helping us load the UHaul tonight, before they start drinking. We leave early tomorrow morning. David and Glen will help us unload and then Ginger and I spend a few days setting up our new home-away-from-home.

What else? Brittany leaves for Calabash on Saturday, spending a week with the Cossey’s. She’s so excited about seeing Braden and Teagan, Adrianne and Nigel too.

Ginger and I have a couple of trips planned too. Over Labor Day we’ll visit Indianapolis for a few days. On the way home we’ll stop in Memphis to visit St. Jude Children’s Hospital. I’ve had a deep appreciation for St. Jude for some time but now it’s even deeper… In October we’re heading for Calabash. We’re hoping to spend a little time in Charleston and Savanna too. Shoot, we may not come back!

Finally, I’m still recovering from my illness, getting a little stronger as time goes by. Some days are better than others but they’re “my days” and I’m happy to have them. This past Saturday Ginger and I ran, jogged, walked and limped near six miles. Yesterday I did another 3+. I’m not in the best shape but in time it will come. I still intend to do the San Antonio Marathon in November…

Braden Teagan
Trent

Carter

Early Fathers' Day for Bob...

I got to see my girls in Heath a week before Fathers' Day. Not only my girls...I got to see my favorite (only) grand daughter Teagan. What a treat! And what wonderful blessings...

All Clear!!!

Had my three month (post surgery) checkup at MD Anderson yesterday! Blood work, x-rays and CT scan. I met with Dr. Kamat today to go over the results. He gave me another “ALL CLEAR.” He even accused me of showing off by being in good shape. I don’t have to go back for six months. I’m still a little overwhelmed by it all. Actually very overwhelmed!

On a different note, I do have a couple of tips to make these follow up exams fun:

1) In the CT Imaging area you fill out a questionnaire when you check in. The third question is “Are you breast feeding?” I checked YES to see if they would notice…they didn’t!
2) Another question asks “Are you aware of the rectal contrast procedure?” I checked NO but stated I would probably be aware if/when it happened.

Thanks to all of you who continue to support me through this new life. Hopefully I can return the favor.

Wow, I waited a whole week to update the blog. Sorry!

I spent Monday through Thursday in the Dallas area. I stayed with my lovely sister-in-law Jayne at her (my) home in the country. It’s so peaceful I don’t want to leave sometimes. But there are these things called work and reality I have to deal with.

Tuesday was fun. I met Jayne, Glen, Paul and Gail at Gail’s house after work. We sat out back and drank Coronas and ate pizza. There were absolutely no discussions about diets, points, weight etc. We just ate and drank. Life is good!

This was my first week on the road, in the stores. I did okay. My feet got a little tired from the ongoing nerve issues and I got tired just because I’m out of “work” shape. I probably pushed a little too hard, trying to visit all stores in 2 ½ days. Typically I’ll visit one store per day. Anyway, it’s good to be back. Next week I’ll be in training for a couple of days and then head back to DFW on Thursday.

I stopped by my new apartment complex. I like the location of our unit. Can’t wait to get moved in next month!

Nine days until my three-month follow up at M.D. Anderson. I’m planning on getting another “all clear” from my doctor.

I used to drive this...1969 Roadrunner...Beep, beep!

A dose of reality...

The message below is from a 53 year old woman "K" on my cancer network. Makes me realize how precious time is.

A few things I want...

I want to see Brittany graduate from college. I want to walk her down the aisle at her wedding like I did with Adrianne & Alison. I want to see Adrianne and Alison grow as ladies, parents and wives. I want to spend time with my grandchildren, spoiling them as much as I can. I want Ginger and me to have peace in our lives…not too much peace, just enough to help us stay focused. I just want to live a little...

From K,
I'm sneakin' this in here because I can't bear to either start a new discussion or talk individually to some of my new friends here. Uh....I'm apparently too bad off for CHEMO! Cripes, that can't be good. It's a benefit/risk thing, at this point, and with my pelvic cavity having so many lack of blood-supply issues, there's not even much likelihood the meds would MAKE it to my pelvis. And if they DID, their very toxicity would destroy what little viable tissues remain. So, the end is near, the sky is falling, don't cry for me Argentina. This is something I've felt coming my way for quite some time. This year actually marked HALF MY LIFE as a cancer survivor. My prayers, as a woman of 26, were to please let me watch my girl grow up. I GOT that incredible gift (as SHE is), and a bonus of a lovely 15-year-old granddaughter. So how, exactly, can I feel bitter or "unfair!" ? I've been blessed thru my entire journey. One reason my Cancer Team is having such a hard time treating me is that I've LIVED so long; my tissues are just dissolving. Life is good. Don't sweat anything you don't HAVE to. PLANT the flowers you wanna smell. Love everyone in your life. And realize that every single moment, even the hard as hell ones, are gifts. I will be withdrawing, more & more, from my online forums. I have a lot to do, and some places I need to go. (My chances of 5-year-survival, with OR without chemo, are zero. So time's a-wastin'.) I'm grateful for all the info, support, and kindness I've encountered here. I wish you all NOTHING but the best, and good health for yourselves and your loved ones. Please don't feel "sad" for me....we all gotta go, and at least I know I won't be the crazy 90-year-old cat lady, two foot tall & mean as hell, at the end of the block. There's a measure of comfort in that, alone. Bwahahahaha......

IN JOY,~~K

This was my first week back at work. Other than getting a little tired late in the day, it was pretty uneventful. I had lots of emails and stuff to read, just to get caught up. Next week I’ll be in DFW. I’m excited about being on the road again. As much as I love my home being in the house for three months has been tough. Then again, it may have something to do with recovering from cancer. DUH!

Here’s a photo Ginger sent entitled Patience…

Old pictures...

nuff said...

I have been blessed by children…

I had the privilege of being a member of the St. Jude Heroes Running Team in 2007. We ran the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. to raise money for the children. We met in our plush, private tent in Charity Village prior to the start of the race. We were treated like royalty. We were all excited, joking about the close proximity of Arlington Cemetery to the finish line. That’s when “IT” happened…

On the wall of the tent were several signs with the St Jude child logo. From a distance I noticed scribbling all over the signs. I moved closer to see hand written names with messages like “Good Luck Heroes.” I asked the director what I was looking at. I was completely overwhelmed and brought to tears by her answer.

She told me the kids at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital sent the signs to thank and wish us good luck. Children, many of whom were terminally ill were wishing “ME” good luck. Some of the bravest children you could ever see!

This turned out to be one of my toughest races. Unbeknownst to me I had bladder cancer (this was a year and a half before my diagnosis) and at mile 20 stomach cramps set in. I never considered quitting, though. These brave, sick little kids had wished me luck and I wasn’t about to let them down. Running those final 6 miles seemed to take an eternity but as I crossed the finish line I realized these kids had carried me.

They have continued to carry me for some time. I think of them often when I’m in treatment. God willing I’ll run for them again when I get back to full strength.

Life goes on...

Ginger and I are spending Memorial Day weekend at Jayne’s in Heath, our country home away from home. I feel so relaxed when I’m there. I could use “relaxed” right now.

We’re driving up Friday morning. Ginger will go home Sunday or Monday. I’ll be staying for the week. I go back to work Tuesday, 5/26. It’s going to be a busy week. Everyone is telling me to take it easy. Don’t worry, I will!

Gail and Paul get married in June. That should be fun! I’m looking forward to the post-wedding party at Gail’s house. I even reserved a hotel nearby so we could have fun without worrying about the drive.

My next round of tests at M.D. Anderson is Monday, 6/15. I’ll have variety of scans, x-rays and blood work. I return the next day to go over the results with Dr. Kamat. Even though my post-surgery pathology showed all clear it’s hard not to be a little anxious about these tests. Oh well, got to stay positive.

Can’t wait to move into our Frisco apartment…it will make life so much easier. We’re going to visit the complex this weekend. We’ll probably shop for furniture too. We need a sofa, lamps and other “stuff.”

Last Saturday morning I met with our running club at Clear Lake Park. First time I’ve been out since last summer. It was so good to see my friends. I walked 3.5 miles with Vicki Beck. I was pretty tired at the end and for the rest of the day…but it was a good tired. I’ll keep working to increase my distance a little at a time.

Life goes on…

A random act of kindness…

Recently I discovered an online network of people (Inspire.com) who have the same disease as me, bladder cancer. In a short period of time I’ve made a number of friends. We discuss everything from our treatment to our children. It’s a wonderful support group, one I wish I had found a long time ago.

There are several members in the Houston area that I have connected with. One, Cheyenne, had surgery at MD Anderson yesterday. Cheyenne's wife was unable to attend, although she wanted to, so Lynda, a member from Willis, and I went to MDA yesterday to be his substitute family. I met both for the first time.

I had a wonderful visit with Lynda while Cheyenne was in surgery. Her husband is an eight year survivor of leukemia and she is currently living with bladder cancer. Both she and Cheyenne are contemplating the procedure I had, a procedure that that can be intimidating. Having seen me in pretty good shape, seven weeks after surgery gave them a little hope for a good outcome. Sometimes just being there for people helps.

After his surgery Cheyenne was released to go home. Unfortunately home is an hour and a half away and his wife wasn't able to pick him up at that time. So…Lynda took him home and put him in her guest room. That’s right; a total stranger helped someone in need. What an act of kindness! That’s what these people are like. Cheyenne’s wife will pick him up today or tomorrow and take him home.

Regarding me, still planning to return to work on May 25…

Quick update..

It’s been seven weeks since surgery. WOW! It seems like a year. I’m still getting stronger. I walked near 2 miles this morning, even jogged a little…very little. I am hoping walking will help the nerve pain in my legs.

I’m not registered for any races but I am supposed to do the San Antonio half marathon with Alison in November.

Alison, I hope you’re training. Bob/me, I hope I can really do it.

Today, 13.1 mile seems impossible. A few weeks ago 2 miles seemed impossible. Progress…

I plan to return to work on May 25, one week early. I’m feeling pretty good and I need some activity (i.e. work) to make me feel better. I have a lot to catch up on so it will be a busy summer.

My three girls...

Alison, Brittany & Adrianne...am I lucky or what?

Historical Landmark

Have you ever seen a two-story What-a-Burger? It’s a must-see in Corpus Christi. Take your family and your cameras...it’s better than seeing the Statue of Liberty. It will take your breath away. Click on the picture to see full size...see the two girls standing on the balcony.

Our new "other" home...

We are so excited… We rented an apartment in Frisco this past weekend, sight unseen…sort of. The complex is located in a great area, close to Stone Briar Mall with easy access to shopping, restaurants, highways and, best of all, Alison, David and the boys.

The plan is for Ginger to come to Dallas every other weekend since she’s off every other Friday. The other weekends I will go to League City. This will reduce my driving by near a thousand miles per week plus it will make my work life much easier. I’ll be in close proximity to all but three of my stores. The weekends I’m not at the apartment Brittany can use it if she wants to visit Dallas.

I continue to get stronger each day. It’s my hope that I can return to work prior to June 1, maybe one to two weeks earlier. It’s getting to be that time…

Brittany will be home tomorrow...

Cypress lakes at Stonebriar

Pool & Rec Center
Indoor Basketball Court
Workout Center

My newest grand babies...

Alison sent us a few photos of the new babies...actually I took then from Alison's blog.

Carter

Teagan
Teagan & Carter

Another good week...

Alison and the boys went home Monday. Ginger and I missed them the second they drove away. The house was so “alive” while they were here. Trent was always into something, keeping himself (and us) entertained. Carter just lays there and takes it all in. Can’t wait until they visit again!

My week has been pretty good. I’m getting stronger, sleeping a little better and thinking more clearly. The one remaining problem is nerve pain in my legs. Apparently the positioning on the operating table traumatized the nerves. My doctor tells me this is normal but it may be months before it heals completely. My leg muscles are strong; it’s just surface pain that gets uncomfortable. My PCP was kind enough to prescribe a drug specifically for nerve pain. It seems to help some and will hopefully help me heal faster.

Last night I drove for the first time in six weeks. Felt good! Ginger and I went to dinner (another six week first) at Dos Mas, our favorite Mexican restaurant. We even shared a margarita. Those of you who know me well know I don’t usually share cocktails. I have to ease back into drinking…

Next week I hope to do some light jogging…and I do mean light! If jogging is too hard then I will walk. I just can’t sit around anymore plus I want to keep the weight off.

BIG EVENT NEXT WEEK… Brittany comes home for the summer!

Grandpa-Bob & Trent

Random stuff...

The boys are here…

Alison arrived yesterday with Trent and Carter. It’s been fun every since. “Busy” describes Trent best. He always has something going on. He’s so much fun. Carter is pretty laid back at this point. He just lays around looking at the world go by. He likes to have someone near him.

This morning Alison asked if Carter woke me last night. He didn’t. She said he woke up at 3:30 and 5:30 to “talk and fart.” Hmm…sounds a like a man in his fifties.

You can never have too many friends…

Our dear friend Terry Frank stopped by this morning. Terry brought us a barbeque brisket…a huge barbeque brisket. Guess what we’re having for dinner. Terry has been one of our biggest supporters throughout my illness. She sends us inspirational quotes and messages of encouragement regularly. As I said, Terry is a dear friend.

Getting stronger...

Apart from some weird numbness/pain in my legs I feel pretty good. I plan to extend my walks next week to build up some endurance. Monday will mark five weeks since surgery. My goal was to be walking (maybe running) at six weeks. We’ll see…

Passing the time...slowly.

I knew it would happen eventually…boredom.

Since I’m limited physically and fairly tired every day I spend quite a bit of time sitting. I try to stay busy reading, blogging and watching TV. For exercise I walk around the house, up and down stairs. I go outside with Lucy and walk up and down the sidewalk. I always end up back in my big chair, usually taking a nap mid-afternoon. That’s as good as it gets for now.

Are you hungry?

I watch the Food Network constantly. My favorite show is Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. It’s comfort food at its best. I’ve actually downloaded several recipes. When I’m feeling better and can get to the store I'll try some of them. I also like any show with Bobby Flay. He grills all sorts of foods. Grilling is my favorite way to cook. As much as Ginger has taken care of me the past few months I certainly intend to cook for her when I get stronger.

Big weekend coming up…

Alison and the boys are visiting this weekend. They’re due to arrive Friday, staying through the weekend. I can’t wait to see them. Grandpa will be a little boring this trip but Grandma Ginger won’t. She loves to spoil those babies.

Trent after he found out he's coming to visit me...

(I made that up)

Brief update...

Saturday’s flood waters receded just in time. We ended up with a little water in the garage but none in the house. We were fortunate. Many people in our area had water damage. Sunday, Ginger cleaned up the yard. I so wish I could help her but I have to lay low until I heal.

I feel a little stronger each day. My appetite is good and my weight (loss) has stabilized. I don’t mind losing weight but there are better ways to do it. My incision is healing and shrinking, now that the staples have been out for a week. My two “wounds” are closing and should be healed soon. Overall I feel pretty good.

Big CONGRATULATIONS to my niece Ashlie! Ashlie completed her first triathlon in St. Augustine this past weekend. That would mean swimming in the ocean, a tough way to do your first event. I admire anyone who can do the training let alone complete an event. Way to go Ashlie!

Brittany will be coming home in a few weeks. Can’t wait to see her! I know she has a busy summer planned but it will be good to have her home. I’ll still be on medical leave when she gets home so I’ll get to spend some time with her.

What next?

As if we haven’t had enough challenges of late… It started raining this morning. Then it rained some more, and more, and more. Here are a few snapshots from our front door. The water is up to the house with a little in the garage. Hopefully it will let up soon before it gets into the house.

Let's make some memories...

I don't need to look very far for motivation to get healthy. I want my four, darling grandchildren to know me as a fun, loving grandpa for as long as possible.

My mother’s father passed away when I was very young so I didn’t know him. My father’s father lived into his 90’s. He lived on a farm in Ontario (Canada). We visited every summer and at least one Christmas. That Christmas I remember him hooking two horses to a big sled and taking us for a ride through the fields. It was like a Budweiser commercial. I have very fond memories of our visits to the farm, and Canada.

I don’t plan on having a farm but I do want the grandkids to enjoy their time with us. I look forward to making fond memories with them…

Braden & Teagan

Trent & Carter

Super Tuesday

It’s no secret I was looking forward to Tuesday, the day my tubes and staples would be removed. It turned out to be more eventful than I had anticipated.

Riding to M.D. Anderson I became nauseas and very dizzy. When we arrived Ginger had to put me in a wheelchair to get me to the clinic. I felt so bad for her. She had all of our “stuff” to carry plus me to push. It was a rough start to the day. It was 8:00 AM.

First stop was for my cystogram, a contrast x-ray of my new bladder. They laid me on a table with all kinds of machines hanging from the ceiling, stuck more tubes in me and injected fluids. It wasn’t painful but was uncomfortable. They took pictures from all angles. I actually got to see them on the monitor. My new bladder looks like the old one, albeit cancer free. We were finished at 10:00 AM.

Our next stop was at Dr. Kamat’s area. We arrived a little after 10:00. We found out our appointment was for 2:00. The receptionist checked us in anyway and told us we wouldn’t have to wait long. We got in just before 11:00.

Let the waiting begin…

Suffice to say we were in an examination room for four hours. First the P.A. came in to assess my condition. He told us the cystogram came back good, meaning the new bladder was intact and ready to go. Next (but some time later) Dr. Kamat came in. He told us everything looked good and that the staples and tubes would be removed. I was so happy!!!

Now for the BIG NEWS…

Dr. Kamat had several pages of data in his hand. He told us it was the pathology report from my surgery. It showed that the cancer was gone. All lymph nodes and organs are clear. I understood what he was saying but didn’t really grasp it at that moment. I just kept thanking him. He told us we didn’t need to come back for three months. As soon as he left, Ginger and I broke down in tears. It was joy, gratitude, relief and appreciation all rolled into one, big cry.

Let the fun begin…

The P.A. returned to remove my kidney stints. He said I might feel some pressure. I’ve learned “pressure” in medical terms means pain. He was right. It felt like my left kidney was being removed with a line and fish hook.

Next, the nurse came in to remove the catheter (that had been in for three weeks). She said it would be uncomfortable. If pressure means pain what do you suppose “uncomfortable” might be? OH-MY-GOD!!! Leave it at that. Poor Ginger had to witness all of this.

Next, time to remove the staples. We’re talking metal staples. The nurse said it would feel like mosquito bites…really big mosquitoes. It wasn’t fun but tolerable after the catheter.

Finally, a visit from the WOC Nurse. She taught me how to self-catheterize, learn to control the new bladder and care for my wounds.

Now it’s on me to regain my strength and get back to normal life as soon as I can.

Three days to go...

My little dog Lucy has become my constant companion. I’ve been sleeping on the sofa in our family room since I came home. It’s just easier for me to maneuver while I still have these tubes. Lucy, who normally sleeps in her bed in our bedroom, has stayed with me every night. She’s decided to watch over me while I recover. One night this week I decided to lay down in our guest room. Lucy slept under the bed while I napped. The unconditional love of a dog is a true form of healing.

I’ve been counting the days until the 14th. I so want to lose the tubes, have the staples removed and move forward with recovery. I still have a long way to go but mobility will help a lot.

Ginger is on a mission to win “Yard of the Month” in our subdivision. I swear she’s planted flowers everywhere these past few weeks. I haven’t seen them but I’m sure the yard looks great. What a woman!!!

The one and only Lucy...

Ten Days Later...

I’ve been home ten days. It’s been quite a journey so far. The most noticeable change is my strength. Last Tuesday I walked up the stairs, sat on the bed and passed out…literally. I went too fast, too soon. Now I can make multiple, albeit slow, trips every day. I can even give myself a shower. Getting up and down from my chair is easier too. I haven’t used my walker in a week.

Next Tuesday, April 14, I go back to the doctor for my first follow-up. My two “tubes” will be removed along with my staples. CAN’T WAIT! After that, some rehab and continued recovery.

While Ginger continues to be my special caregiver, a friend and nurse, Vicki Beck has also been a special blessing. A portion of my incision has to be treated (repacked) twice a day. Neither Ginger nor I felt comfortable doing this. When I came home it took 16” of gauze to fill it…it was that deep. It can be painful. Since day one Vicki has stopped by twice a day to do this for us. The wound is now ½” deep and healing. Thank you Vicki!

The scar… I really hadn’t paid much attention to my incision. While in the hospital several nurses mentioned my “beautiful” scar and the bragging rights it gave me. I’m like “HUH?” Monday I actually looked at it. Whoa! It must be 18” top to bottom. Dang, no wonder my stomach is sore. I don’t know when, where or why I would brag but it is impressive.

Thanks to my family and friends for the continued messages, cards and good wishes. It helps a lot!

A few words from home...

I can’t write for long but wanted to let you all know I am home. They released me Sunday evening. Sunday night was pretty tough but Monday was better. It is just going to take some time for me to heal, feel better and get back on track.

Ginger is still my angel. She takes care of me every day.

I am ready...

Last post before surgery! I am so ready to get on with it! We’ll be at M.D. Anderson at 5:15 AM. We’ll update everyone as soon as we can. Today is “fasting day” for me. I can have clear, liquids only. So far so good! I wish someone would invent clear liquid cheeseburgers. I did ask about tequila since its clear…no go! No beer either! Dang!

Brittany left for Lubbock this morning. I will never get used to seeing my girls leave…ever! They are such a blessing in my life. I know they all want to be here during my treatment but it is better for all of us if we keep life as routine as possible. Besides, I couldn’t be in better hands…

Keep up the prayers. They do help…

Ginger & me at the SLTM Banquet