MONDAY RESULTS

MONDAY - Pretty much as expected my numbers have kind of tanked. First, White Blood Cells have gone from 1.3 on Friday to .5 today. Normal is 4 to 10. This is kind of normal after chemo but is a red flag that I have to be very careful. Hemoglobin is steady in the 10 range and that's where my energy is coming from now. 

Yep, I am still having fairly normal days ---- working on business stuff and Sun City stuff. But, platelets are only 17. They are my army of cells cruising around in my blood stream to keep me from bleeding. They were about 275 only a couple weeks ago. So, we'll see what everything looks like on Wednesday. I would not be surprised to need a platelet transfusion. But what we are hoping for is that by Wednesday, my bone marrow is kicking back into high gear and building up my blood again. It may take several weeks, of course. But this is all part of the routine after chemo kicks my butt.

Everything is on one chart but WBC, HGB and Platelets each have their own range.  So for now, I appreciate the prayers, positive thoughts and help that you give Dawn and I. Oh, anybody up for hauling me on Wednesday at about 1:45? 
Bob 

FRIDAY NIGHT REPORT

FRIDAY EVENING REPORT - 
This morning I had a couple brief Sun City business kind of meetings. Worked on a bit of client stuff. 

At 11 we headed to Dr. Singh's for labs as usual. This meeting explained a lot. Take a look the lab results chart here. It's not complete with all dates and results, but it does indicate how I've done in the past and, therefore, how I'm guessing I'll do over the next week or so. My hemoglobin has stayed fairly steady, platelets are OK but down a lot and White Blood Cells are dropping like a rock. Just as before. Do I feel it? Yeah a bit. But, for the most part my hemo is holding me up energy-wise. It's down but I'm not down and out at all. 

As before, I am expecting that within a few more days, my WBC is going to tank. As it is now, I am neutropenic --- officially. That means I won't go to any places with crowds, we'll wash fruits and vegetables very thoroughly, not eat some fresh vegetables and just listen to my body. Ha ha...hard for me. 

I expect, as you look at the lab results, that I'll go more down --- maybe really, really low for at least 2 or 3 days. And, then I'll start coming back up again. Dr. Singh says that we shouldn't pay a lot of attention to the numbers but to just pay attention to how I feel. Which means we just have to get through this phase with no fever or any other complications and all will be well. The biggie is no infections. 

What's next? As I said Wednesday, the best outcome would be that I get through this round of chemo, recover and then am able to do the absolute final Round 4. Works for me. He just said, "Take it easy. Relax." 

So, again, one of our best friends Mary Ann brings dinner over. Can you believe it? It was delicious and quite welcome. It really helps out Dawn. Of course, yesterday Susan made us lunch. Although it was kind of a reward for doing a yard walk at her house and helping her figure out what to do with some plants and landscaping. Love doing that. 

This weekend is about laying low and watching the Packer game. I was hoping to get to church but that's not a good idea this weekend. It'll be interesting to see where my numbers are on Monday. So my prayer is to get through the next 3 or 4 days uneventfully...although I will likely be more tired.  

Next week Dawn will get me to my Monday appointment and Mary Ann has volunteered as transportation manager for Friday. So I just need a lift for my 2:10 appointment on Wednesday. Although I have been driving with Dawn this week, I am guessing and planning that next week I won't as my numbers tank. 

Love and hugs to you all,
Bob 

PS: Remember, there are 3 kinds of men. The ones that learn by readin'. The few who learn by observation. The rest of them have to pee on the electric fence for themselves. Still hopin' I stay in one of the first two groups. And you?

WEDNESDAY - Good news - bad news

WEDNESDAY - Bad news is good news. OK, I'll explain that in a minute.  

• MONDAY NUMBERS
• WBC - 3.9: Low but OK. 
• HGB - [Hemoglobin] - 10.1 - Only a wee bit low. 
• PLT - [Platelets] - 133 - Only a wee bit on the low end. 
• WEDNESDAY NUMBERS - Today
• WBC - 2.3 - Low
• HGB - 10.7 - Still OK. 
• Platelets - 66 - Low

So, yes, my numbers are dropping. And, this explains why today I am starting to feel it. I told Dawn I think my "Tippy factor" has gone from 3% to maybe 15%. TF is totally my interpretation of how I am feeling. Joke.

However, remember, they expect me to drop; although much more next week. We'll see. I've seen WBC's as low as .4 at home after chemo. Yeah, that means I am really, really careful around people. It's not a good place to be. I am hoping I don't dip that low, but it could happen. 

WHAT'S NEXT? We talked about that with Dr. Singh today. This is the Bad News, Good News part.

• If I do very well, then Dr. Singh thinks that we should do a 4th round of chemo. Hey, I'm all over it. That's fine with me because I've done it successfully 4 times now, and this would give me the very best chance that leukemia will not return. Of course, with cancer and life, there's no  guarantees but there are intelligent decisions and choices to make. 
• If I do not do so well this round; meaning that I run into some trouble and end up back at Sherman for any reason [likely excluding a transfusion which could be needed but does not indicate a big problem], then Dr. Singh says, "No way will we do more chemo." 
• When? We are kind of guessing but we think a 4th round would be in mid-September. We're prepared and good with that although we were kind of booking up activities for a lot of September. But my health comes first. 
• A 4th round would almost 100% be the end of treatment. Sure, the ultimate is transplant but we're not seeing that as an option with Dr. Singh. 

We talked about work and that I am considering a 3 day business trip in early October. He said, fine, if I feel like it. I am really chomping at the bit to really get back to agressively working with my consulting clients now. Even if I do go for another round, I think it's quite realistic since I know how to get through a round of chemo without too much trouble...even while in Sherman. Boy, would the girls be surprised to see me again! I'm old, I can call ladies, girls, don't you think? 

Today - This morning I worked for a while; or, as long as Dawn let me which was a few hours. So good. In case, you're are interested or just curious, after lunch we...

• Bought candy and flowers and delivered them to two terrific staff members that I worked with on committees who are leaving Sun City this week.
• Picked up cosmetics at our Mary Kay dealers house a couple minutes away. Yeah, we're both users.
• Got my labs done and met with Dr. Singh.
• Stopped at Dawn's office so she could check in and take care of a couple things. 
• Went to the nursery to get a big mum, pots and other stuff. 
• Stopped at the outlet center which is 5 minutes from our house and I got some new shoes at Sketchers and we looked for a shirt for Dawn's tap show [struck out so just ordered from Lands End.]. 
• Stopped at the market to get ice cream, pie and wine. 
• Got home and watched half of an old cowboy movie starring James Garner. Will finish it tomorrow. Westerns are my favorite. 

That's it, folks. Pray for our continued wisdom as we face more decisions and that God continues to bless us more than we deserve.

Bob

Brief Tuesday Thoughts

TUESDAY - We zipped around today running errands and taking lunch to mom and Gerry. Plus I stopped to visit a couple wonderful friends. And, then Jim shows up with dinner made by Sue. It can't be a better day. I am still feeling well....only maybe 3% tippy as I say sometimes. 

Here's what Celine Dion said today about her husband, Rene, who is dying of cancer, "“You can have your shaking knees at the end, but when someone you love falls and needs help, it’s not time to cry. Afterwards, sure. But not yet.” That's not us, but it can be anybody at any time and it's the perfect attitude. 
Hugs to you,
Bob

MONDAY NEWS

MONDAY WAS GOOD! Yeees. things are still going quite swimmingly. We got the Monday blood work done and it's all looking good and only down just a bit. The doctor thinks it will go down a bunch more...maybe next week. But I'm not so sure. Ha ha. We'll see who's right. The good thing is that right now....I feel good and am working, walking and doing stuff. 

Here's my pictorial report for today --- my most favorite niece, Kelly, has been at it again with the biggest care package ever. This girl is so clever and constantly amazes me. Check out the lights, too! What do you think? Is this clever or what? And, check out the Candy Cards. Wow. It's Halloween early for Bubbie. 

Right now I have a beer in hand and Dawn is making a Nathan's dog with onions and cheese on the bun and Bush's Bourbon Beans and Fritos. I'm so excited. Doesn't take much to please me, does it? 
Hugs and good night!
Bob

SUNDAY FUTURE CASTING

SUNDAY - FUTURE CASTING -  I had another good day today. I'm so blessed. But I'm still trying to get over the 24/7 fluid IV I get in the hospital so got up about every 60-90 minutes last night to pee it out. I forgot to take an Ambien, but tonight for sure. 

OK, so late yesterday after Dawn and I settled down a bit, we had a chat about our future. It's a good thing to do with your spouse sometimes. It was a really wonderful talk between us. And, here's what it was about.                                                                    -  - We don't know exactly what the future holds for me health-wise but we are  determined to be positive, optimistic and realistic. If I can get through a year without any sign of leukemia, my chances of cancer returning soon are pretty good. Although, I think I need more information about this from Dr. Singh on Wednesday when we meet with him.
- Dawn had a Stage 2 lymphoma 5 years ago and goes this week for her meeting with Dr. Nabrinsky. So far every check up has been perfect. But that is always in the back of our minds, too. 
- We want to do stuff this year. We love to travel but Dawn's mom and dad need us more now so we won't go to Europe as we usually do. We want to take a bunch of shorter trips like to Door County, Waupaca more often, San Antonio, Santa Barbara and the Pacific Northwest and especially Nashville. We are pretty much plannng to go to Vermont in early October for a combination pleasure and business trip. We talked about doing more stuff around here, too. Maybe some hikes or tours.                                                                   - We are both committed to whatever challenges, battles or opportunities our lives present us. We are a team together and we've talked about that.                                       - It sounds funny, but we do need to get our important papers and will reviewed and updated. I am pretty good at this but it's been a few years since we've made sure that everything is current. 

Just a couple of odd thoughts for you today. Over the last two days, I watched a really good movie while I was elevating my feet to help with the slight edema that I have from all the Sherman-time. If you haven't seen it, rent or buy "Wild" with Reese Witherspoon. Wow, what a good flick. It's a true story about Cheryl Strayer who hiked the Pacific Crest Trail which runs from Mexico to Canada ---- a 1000 miles. She was a young lady with a very checkered past and it's the story of how the trail challenged and changed her. And, it's about the trail which as a California native, I did not really know existed. It is really rugged and beautiful. Check it out! Rotten Tomatoes gave it a 91, in fact. 

Coffee. I do love good coffee. And unfortunately, I am a wee bit of a coffee snob. Having lived in Hawaii, it was easy to get used to really good coffee. Over the last six months, I have had very, very little because of my health and it just didn't seem to appeal to me. But, I decided to get back to it. Although I do love tea an awful lot too. So, I ordered some Kona coffee from Hawaii, got out our French press and watched the Alton Brown video on how to make a great cup of coffee. This morning Dawn and I enjoyed the best coffee we've had in ages. Oh, Alton Brown is right....put just a pinch of salt in the ground coffee to cut any bitterness just before you pour in the boiling water. And, buy whole beans and grind them yourself, for crying out loud. 

The Packers lost, but I'm not worried at all. So the world is good tonight. 
I love and appreciate every one of you who put up with my daily dribble and remember us. 
Bob

SATURDAY - Yippe Yeah! Finished my last round of chemo about 11:30am, doctors came to review things and complete my discharge orders, got disconnected, reviewed all discharge stuff and we were on our way and home by about 2pm. Oh boy, does it feel great or what.
I am feeling better than after any other time I was released...this was #7. And, I don't have many meds to deal with...just a few. 
Photo 1 - Leaving room 1209
Photo 2 - All chemo IV's checked off my white board plus my record of laps for the week that I was kind of proud of. 
Photo 3 & 5 - Dawn hauling stuff out.
Photo 4 - Just a sorry example of my anal-ness. I even brought some twine in my hospital kit to tie the nurse/lights/TV remote to my bed so it would always be handy and I wouldn't have to always fish around for it.

So what's next? Just hanging out and recovering. It's likely all my numbers will take a digger in a few days and I'll have to back off as I recover from the accumulated chemo. Dawn is taking off all week which will be quite nice. And, I'll be back to doing blood work 3 days a week at Dr. Singh's. 

I think Monday we'll be talking about what the future holds: the risk factors and the chances of leukemia coming back. It's gone now, of course. There is certainly some risk that it can rear it's ugly head again. But, I'm prepared for that; plus there is another treatment protocol available. 

Keep praying! I do know that if I can get through the next year without anything happening that's a really great outcome. But, I'll keep you updated. 

Steak on the grill and sweet corn for supper tonight. Wow. 

Love you all,
Bob

FRIDAY - When Dawn came in after work a bit ago, she asked, as usual, how it was going. 'Bored' was all I could say. Not to say that being here and getting chemo is not without some challenges. There are. 

But, it's going well. Below is the 'scenery' on my laps....14 today which is a couple of miles. I just feel that it's really important to get exercise and keep some muscle tone. I know that my muscles are kind of on the weak  side after the last 6 months. And, I do want to get back to tennis. When? Not sure. But I'll be chomping at the bit in a couple weeks, I'm sure. I have no clue what stamina, strength or energy I'll have. But I can walk fine at a brisk pa

ce now. 

Dawn will be back in a bit with dinner. I think it's ribs from a local restaurant. Yum with calories. Just what I need. 

Another stand-in wife, Sue, brought lunch from Panera today and we caught up on all the Sun City chit chat. 

My doctors were in today as usual and all is just fine. My nurse should be in in just a few minutes to start me on chemo Round 3A. I'll get 3B in the morning, 12 hours later, at 7am. It takes about 4 hours so I should be discharged about noon and on my way home. Yippee. 

Today I did get a good report on hospital stuff'/processes with some suggested actions sent off to the hospital president, Linda, today. It's what I do...after 70 days and 7 admittances here. I have had lots to write about. 

I have developed so many 'friends' here, it's funny to say I'll miss them. But I will. 

I had Dawn pick up 24 more packages of Sargento Balanced Breaks for the staff frig which they seem to really like because they are healthy and easy to eat on the run. Last week I brought them fancy pastries so figured healthy snacks this time. 

Please have a super weekend. Celebrate your life with those you love whether kids, grandkids, friends or spouse. God is so good and so dependable. 
Bob 

THURSDAY

THURSDAY - Broken Record Day. Yeah, what do I say. Today was another good day at the Sherman Resort Complex. 

If you understand numbers, here they are attached. I am always focused on the numbers just as my doctors are. One critical one while I am here, is Absolute Neutrophil Count. It has to be 1.0 or better. I checked all the ones we look the most at most, but this is still only half of the daily report. Just to say, I'm good on everything. 

This morning I got Round 2A of my chemo. I get 3A tomorrow night and then 3B at 7am Saturday and by noon, God willing and the creek don't rise, I'm outta here.

I got another record 13 laps in today, by the way. That's great and a testament of how good I feel. Will the other shoe drop? Yeah, probably next week but by then, I'm in my own beddy. 


I did get permission to attend the Patient and Family advisory committee meeting today, too. It was really informative and they meet once a month. I think I contributed some good ideas too. The hospital Nurse Navigator was in twice today to chat with me and told me a few minutes ago that because of my feedback and ideas, they have made a number of process improvements. Darn, I should be getting paid for this. But, no, this is my way of giving back and helping other patients have a great experience. 


Dawnie, will be here in a few minutes with supper so I want to finish up. I can't say enough about what a wonderful care giver, wife, partner, lover and confidante, Dawn is. It's by God's providence for sure. I hope you are all so blessed with someone like her in your life. 

Oh the other photo is of two of my favorite nurses [although I do have other most favorites too like Denise], Stacey and Camille are here hooking up another IV bag. 

Take care. Tell someone today how much you love and appreciate them. 
Bob 

Wednesday

WEDNESDAY. - Dr Singh said this morning that I am doing super. I ask for a copy of my blood tests every morning - they draw at 6am every morning - and it looks great today too.

I got 13 laps in today too and have now started the 3rd bag of chemo which is Round 2 just a bit ago. I'll get the 2nd bag of Round 2 at 7am tomorrow.

One of my other 'stand in wives' (Darlene) brought lunch in. I think #1 stand in, Susan, is scheduled for dinner tomorrow so Dawn can go to her tap class. Her big show is only a few weeks away and she is in 6 dances. I don't have a runner for lunch tomorrow yet but sure something will work out.

Yep, I thought you'd like my selfie....which I am not too into but just wanted you all to know I'm still smiling. The other shot is grand central station for the oncology floor.

I think it's your prayers, care and good wishes that have gotten me to the 10 yard line with a touchdown in sight.

I love you all,
Bob

Tuesday

TUESDAY - It's classic: no news is good news. I have finished Round 1  which is chemo twice 12 hours apart. I won't get Round 2 until 7pm tomorrow night. My numbers all look really good: BP, Temp, O2 etc all totally normal and CBC's all good. But, as you and I know, this will change....hopefully not enough to cause any troubles. That's the goal of chemo: change. 

I thought I'd get away without how having to be connected except during chemo. No chance...I have fluids 24/7. Oh well. That just means peeing more. At least the schedule of chemo and meds allows me to get a decent nights sleep for the most part. I do take an Ambien to help out with that. 

Susan picked up my lunch from Panera today and Dawn is bringing something from home for tonight. She has to go to her mom's at noon now. So if there are any lunch volunteers...I'll take you. 

I've got  8 laps in so far today which is really good. Wonder I long I can keep this up? It will change as chemo rounds kick in but we'll see and I'll report. Eating and walking are the two things that I can do. I tend to overdo it though. Like today: I had a lot of work on my computer to do and I know that I didn't kick back enough. But I keep thinking, "Get it done now because by Friday you won't feel like it." Guess we'll see, huh. 

That is it for now. Over and out. 
Bob

MONDAY

We were packed and out the door this morning by 7:20am with a suitcase, two large bags, monitor box and my shoulder bag with computers, etc. 

We got checked in about 8am to Sherman and off to Room 5-1209. Not my big room, but it's OK. I can't win every time. By about 8:45 Stacey, my nurse and today's charge nurse, admitted me and got through all that paperwork. Then she put in a line to draw blood from and sent that to the lab. It came back a couple hours later just dandy for me --- WBC 5.3, Hemo 11.6, Platelets 264. BP 135/73, O2 98 and temp 97. Yipee. My numbers won't look anything like this by Saturday but I just need them high enough to get wheeled out. 

Then Dr. Mandel [one of my oncologist who works with Dr. Singh] came in to go over things and give Stacey the chemo order details. He wanted me to have a CT scan for a baseline....in case I get some lung problem again, I guess. Hopefully we're not going there this time. 

The frustrating part then was that I had to wait until 3pm for the PICC line nurse. I was not a happy camper about that! To top it off, I had to wait until 6:30 for the pharmacy to send up the chemo drug...which has to be mixed. No you know why I walked a record 12 laps today! To cool off a wee bit. I did talk to the nurse manager and she said they do have a process problem which needs to be addressed. I don't think I'll take it any higher at this point although I do know folks up the line, as you know. 


So, now I'll get this bag and then another one to complete round 1 at 6:30am. Then of 1 day and then Round 2 on Wednesday and Round 3 on Friday. Adios on Saturday. 

Oooh, Dawn just walked in with dinner....a new cassarole recipe from Ree Drummon. 
Love you guys, 
Bob

SUNDAY - We had a busy day with Dawn cooking for mom and Gerry, me, and herself for this week for a lot of the day and then us running some errands. Plus getting my car washed since I don't like to leave it dirty for any period of time in the garage. When will I be driving again? I dunno. Hope not too long. 

The photo, of course, is of my kit all packed and ready to haul to Sherman early tomorrow. After being admitted 5 times in the last 6 months, I've got the drill down: computer and tech stuff, extension cords, changes of clothes [don't wear hospital garb...ever], paper plates, cups and silverware [ for when people bring in food], personal care stuff, handy things like sticky notes and string to tie the remote/nurse call to my bed rail, my blanket and pillow...you know, all the good stuff that makes a hospital room kinda/sorta less like a hospital room. 

Remember the 9 Secrets --- Call me first if you are considering a visit, don't send plants or flowers, pray. 

OK, so we'll talk tomorrow night. 
Love you all,
Bob

THURSDAY - SATURDAY

THURSDAY-FRIDAY-SATURDAY - 3 things I can think of that are kind of important to me the last few days.
#1 - Thursday I picked up some really fantastic looking "treats" at Caputo's market and took them over to "my people" on the 5th floor at Sherman. Not as bribery, mind you. But just because I love these nurses because they take such good care of me and I wanted to let them know that I'm coming back on Monday morning. I wanted to know what time from Lisa what would work best for them to be admitted. Ha ha...Dr. Singh said to arrange that with them since he knew that I know them all and know the routine.  They've got another chemo patient coming at 9am; so she said why don't I come at 8am Yippee. The earlier the sooner I get done and gone on Saturday morning. Or, maybe even late Saturday night. We'll see. Certain things have happen before we start the first drip as I mentioned on Wednesday. So, we're set there. Dawn's not working Monday so she'll take me in and then hustle food for me. 

I did get to my third Sun City committee meeting today too. That's important to me. And, I have not meetings that I'll miss next week. 

#2 - I had to repair the computer of my friend, Darlene, on Tuesday and Wednesday and got done about 6:30pm Wednesday night so stopped over at the tennis courts to tell her it was done. She's in the Wednesday night mixed doubles tennis group that I was not in this summer....but had been in for the last probably 4+ years. They are all my good friends. They were so happy to see me. It was the first time that I've even walked on the courts this year.  That just made my week. Great friends are simply like sparkling diamonds and warm blankies all in one! What a lift to my spirits as I get ready for round 3 on Monday. 

#3 - I am just feeling better every day. I can feel that. It's not fast but it is steady. It gives me the encouragement that I can weather whatever this next round brings. I am ;praying that it will go smoothly. I have to go back to my blog and see what the last two rounds --- and, more importantly the week or so after --- were like. It's great that I have all these notes. The whole idea with round 3 is that it takes my numbers down again. But I am hoping and feeling that I have the energy now in order to bounce back nicely without any troubles. That's the idea. Of course, I can't be neutropenic or they don't let me out. But I've gotten out two times on time so far. But, of course, each time you can go deeper/lower because the chemo is still accumulating a bit; i.e., it's not all out of my system yet...but it will be at some point.

I am starting to get stuff organized for Monday. Most of what I need to do is to make sure I have any files, papers or books that I need to do business and entertain myself. All the other stuff: my clothes, blanket, pillow, personal items, computer equipment, extra extension cords, monitor, etc....I have down pat. The only thing I don't take is a printer. But I can log into one of my machines at home and print there if I really needed to.

I'll keep you posted. And, know that I care and pray for you too.
Bob

Wednesday

WEDNESDAY - Well, after a long discussion with Dr. Katz yesterday and a chat with Dr. Tiballi, we met with Dr. Singh this afternoon at 5pm to let him know what choice we'd made regarding my chemo treatment. 

It was a hard decision. However, I am 110% sure we're doing the right thing. I've talked to people and prayed about it and I'm comfortable that it'll go fine. So what am I doing, you ask? I'm heading back to Hotel Sherman on Monday for 6 days of chemo --- the 3rd and final round. Is there some risk? Sure. But I'm quite confident plus Dr. Singh is going to add Neulasta, a drug that is a white blood cell booster, that he did not do the last time. This will help.

So, I'll check in Monday morning and hopefully get all set by early afternoon with the admission rigamarole, blood match and PICC or midline install; and they will get the chemo drug up to me soon from the pharmacy. I should be done Saturday morning. 

As before, I'll probably only eat breakfast at the hospital and get lunch and dinner brought in from home(s) or from Panera or wherever. I have just gotten so tired of the bland hospital food and really need stuff with calories. 

After that week, I'll have a week or two of recovering at home and go 3 times a week to the doctor for CBC's so I will have to rally the transportation department again. Oh my friends are just beyond the best: the most loving and caring people you can imagine. 

A funny thing: Dr. Singh said this afternoon that the nurses on the oncology floor have been asking him about how I'm doing and what's going on. They are so great....I just love them all and will going over to Sherman tomorrow to see if I can somehow wangle the 'big room' again. Lisa, the day charge nurse. has been really good about looking after me. It'll be fun to see them all again. 

Guess that's it for now.
Hugs,
Bob

Tuesday

TUESDAY - I am so happy that I have gotten to two of my three Sun City committee meetings this week. One more to go on Thursday. All that to say that I am STILL steadily improving and pretty darn happy about that. Plus getting other real work done. 

So, now.... yes, I did talk to Dr. Katz today plus talked to her assistant. Remember who she is? Assistant prof at the Rush cancer center in Chicago. 

She seems to favor doing the 3rd round of chemo. Why?
1. In spite of the infection, I have done exceptionally well through all the chemotherapy. She says that I am quite an exceptional person. Nice to hear. She cites a bunch of folks similar to me who just have struggles because of over all health, attitude...who knows. She did not says faith and prayer but that is certainly the foundation, isn't it? 
2. She feels there is less of a risk of leukemia reoccurring by doing the 3rd round. 
3. It is hard to compare option #2 to option #3 in terms of long-term outcome because there is not enough data. They've only been using the Decitabine [for maintenance] for about 5 years. They have much more experience with the drug for Consolidation Chemo.
4. I made it through all the chemo pretty well so far. Hard? Yes. But I did it. And, as I told Dawn, I could do it again if that's what I needed to do. 
5. If I do round 3, then I am done with chemo and only require monitoring. I can pretty much just move on with my life. 

It's a hard decision and I'm not 100% sure of what we'll do. Dawn and I will talk about it tonight if she's not too tired when she gets home about 9pm. So pray for us on this. And, yes, I am a bit fearful, as Dr. Katz said, of getting another infection. However, she  also said that infections are different. Just because you had one, doesn't make you more likely to get another one. But infections are possible every time you have chemo because your whole system is so highly compromised. The maintenance chemo is not strong enough to have any side effects. But you need it often. 

Dawn and I had dinner at mom and Gerry's tonight because Gerry had to go to a meeting and we don't leave mom alone. I just got home. Dawn was up as usual at 5:15am and off to get her mom up, then to work, then back there again and not home until later. Boy, what long days. 

Love to you guys, 
Bob Marcom​

Saturday & Sunday

SATURDAY & SUNDAY - We had a very busy weekend since both Dawn's sister from Atlanta and brother from the other side of Chicago were here to chat about how best to help my mother and father in law as they get older. 

For me, I continue to feel good and gain strength. Dawn was going to take me to the tennis courts and throw balls at me so that I could hit them back but we didn't make it....yet. She can hit the ball pretty well, but right now, I am not quite in 'chase the balls' shape....if you know what I mean. So probably throwing them is the best idea.

We seem to talk about every few hours between us about what I do should do: Option #2 or option #3 [see the Friday post and please chime in]. Dawn favors #2. But I am not so sure. I go back and forth. Tomorrow we're going to try and call two of my other doctors and get an opinion from them. I have to let Dr. Singh know on Wednesday. Whatever it is, I'll be doing it starting next Monday. So keep praying for us.

Tonight was the best dinner ever. We've been talking about making chicken fried steak forever; and, tonight we finally did it using Bobby Flay's recipe. I'm telling you, it was so darn good! Chicken Fried Steak, mash potatoes with southern white gravy, Ree Drummond's Best Ever Green Beans That Cowboys Like and Peach Cobbler with vanilla ice cream for the PIÈCE DE RÉSISTANCE. We are a happy couple tonight. 
Hugs to you all,
Bob

FRIDAY

FRIDAY REPORT - We just got back from a meeting with my oncologist, Dr. Singh. He just talked to Dr. Katz, assistant professor of medicine in the Onocology department of Rush University this week. This is who we've met with and who has designed the protocol that I had been on...and who Dr. Singh works with. 

So, where do we go from here? There are 3 choices.
1. Do nothing - of course there is some risk or a higher risk that the leukemia will come back if we do nothing. But it is a choice. However, our goal is that it does not; or that we control that risk as best we can. I have come to understand that it's all about risk factors and what studies have shown. It's all about odds and every patient and every situation is different. So there's never an exact best answer. 

2. Go on a Maintenance Program - This is where I'd get a low dose of Citabin [chemo drug...or similar] for 5 days in a row each month. It would only take an hour or less and there would be no side effects and I could even go play tennis that same day, should I want to. I would be on this maintenance program for a long time...forever, maybe. 

3. Do the 3rd Round of Consolidation Chemotherapy - This takes 6 days in the hospital which I've done before. After that, I'd do nothing except be monitored by Dr. Singh. The downside is the risk of another infection which could be even worse than the last one. Nobody knows. And we can't know the risk of another infection. 

Dawn and I have right away ruled out #1. And, in discussing options #2 and #3 with Dr. Singh, there's seems to be no data at this point on which is the best choice in preventing a recurrence of leukemia. Possibly less of a chance of recurrence with maintenance....but there's not hard evidence for that. It's iffy....flip a coin. 

We told Dr. Singh that we'd make a choice by next Wednesday. I'm going to try and call Dr. Katz directly and get her opinion. Frankly, it's a really tough choice. It would be nice if Dr. Singh would/could say, "Here's your best choice and why, in my opinion." But the problem again, is that there no current research that compares the options. He does have patients on the long term maintenance program now. 

So here's what I am asking you to do:
1. Pray that God gives Dawn and I wisdom in making the best choice. There is no 'right' choice as Dr. Singh says. 
2. If you have experience, friends with experience or want to offer some advice or suggestions, we are totally open to what you think. So chime in. 


The choice we make, is probably what I"ll be doing by about August 17 ---about 10 days from now. 

Otherwise, I am feeling very, very happy with my recovery at this point --- feeling good, great 'numbers', O2 getting better by the day and normal, raring to get back to working and playing tennis. I definitely need the energy level to keep coming back. I'd probably hit the tennis ball twice and then have to sit down for a few minutes right now. 

- We've got Dawn's brother and sister coming over tomorrow which will be nice. 
- I made a delicious peach cobbler last night. It's a great recipe where you have a stick of butter in the bottom of the dish, pour in the batter and then the peaches on top. It ends up with this delicious biscuit crust on top and is easy. Isn't this picture better than one of my tubes or IV's? 
- We probably have some shopping to do this weekend. 
- I have several important Sun City meetings next week which I love to be involved in as you know. 
Love you all,
Bob 

What happened to Bob?

WEDNESDAY - AUGUST 5 - WHAT HAPPENED TO BOB? 
1. LAST FRIDAY - Dawn took off work and we went to two important doctor appointments. #1 was to see Dr. Singh. My numbers were really good so no worries there. But, the biggie is whether and when I have more chemo. Dr. Singh would like to and there are some options: do the 3rd round of Consolidation Chemo [6 days at the hospital] or maybe something called maintenance chemo [5 days for an hour as an outpatient every month...for not sure how long]. I take it there are other options. But Dr. Singh and Dr.Katz at Rush University are supposed to talk about it this week and we'll find out this Friday what they think.  

So how do I feel? I am feeling really pretty good [you'll know why in a minute] but my energy is still really low. I notice it when I walk or do anything even minimally physical. I call it being 'tippy.' That's my best description. I told Dr. Singh I'm ready for what ever they think is needed but not quite yet. He understands completely. But it's complicated ---- I guess because of the infection which has set back the planned treatment schedule many weeks, they are concerned. 

After Dr. Singh's we went down to the first floor and Adrienne pulled my midline and hugged me goodbye. I was done with the IV and all antibiotics. Hooray. They were certainly affecting my recovering and energy. So now, I am not taking any meds at all for the first time in maybe 6 months...except Florastor which is a probiotic since there are still antibiotics in my system. 

My oxygen is improving nicely --- up to 95% now ---- and temps, BP and HR are good. PTL. 

2. I WAS STUNNED - When Friday afternoon the doorbell rang and my sister and my favorite neice walked in from Spokane, Washington. Huh? What are you guys doing here? Yep, they just came to see me and they have had it all planned with Dawn for weeks. Actually, it took a while for the reality to set in and to understand how much they care about me. 

Friday went all went over to the Muirhead Farm and bought 40 ears of their awesome supersweet corn and other veggies and took a turn around the prairie on the golf cart. 


3. MORE STUNNED ON SATURDAY - I had an outing Saturday morning and went to the SC Computer Club meeting for the first time in 6 months. Just after I got home, the doorbell rings and my brother and sister in law are at the door! What the heck! Am I floored? You betcha. So now both my brother from Atlanta and sister are her to see me. It was both touching and awesome and a lift to my spirits. Plus on Saturday, I drove my car for the first time in six months. How about them apples? We had BBQ plates from a well know place tonight. 

That night while we're eating on the porch, my brother, who's a real joker, comes out with these two hats equipped with hair....since I've lost most of mine. Although, now it's growng back. It created a real photo moment for the whole family and I'll probably sport them around Sun City.

4. SUNDAY - We all went to church at Willow Creek. I have not been able to go --- be around that many people --- since January. Sunday night we had fun looking at home movies of our trip to the UK and France last fall. Of course they all wanted to shop a bit at the outlet mall across from us. Marsha cooked her famous enchiladas and beans so we pigged out on those.  

5. MONDAY - Dawn doesn't work so that was nice. To top off the day, our friend Susan made a fancy spread in her garden party area at the lovely 'estate' for all of us....so we topped of the day quite nicely. 

In all this time, I did install Windows 10 on two computers. I can tell you that it was a piece of cake, took less than 2 hours and everything worked perfectly when done. I am fixing to do another computer this week I was so pleased about how well it went. Do I like W10? Yes! Much better than 8.0 or 8.1 and will be faster than 7. Call me if you have questions. 

6. TUESDAY - Dawn sadly had to go back to work. I took the 3 of them over to the lodge where they had a nice swim. Then we had lunch at the restaurant here at Sun City. As they headed to their car and to the airport for home, he had a wonderful chance to hug and pray together in the parking lot. So sweet. I have to say that the 4 of them were the most low maintenance guys we've ever had. They bought loads of food ---- "oh, you like Spam?" So they buy 4, count'm four cans! ---- did dishes, cooked, pitched in with all kinds of things and put all their laundry in the machine on their way out. 

Today I was back to work and I am a bit behind. Both David and Frode called me today and we had great chats. They are the gold standard definition of a lifelong friend. This Friday will be an important day at Dr. Singh's. 

It is so special to have had this time with my family...they are prayer warrior leaders in getting me through my cancer journey. I hope the rest of your week is special! Bob