[6:11pm]
I had beers last night... it was good. My rebelliousness and desire for normalcy has overruled my obedience, caution, and a little bit of my prudence. But that's OK -- cause I had beers last night, and it was good!
Also, Dan reported that the SF Oncology Group had no problem with a few beers a few days after the end of chemo. So I'm not really being foolish.
The truth is: I'm aware of my body and it's limitations, blah, blah, blah... I mean, today I went to storage and loaded all of my possessions into a truck... I think that demonstration of stamina and strength means something.
Anyhow, the big story is that I am HOME! Yup, right now, I am clicking away on my computer as Liz is cooking me a Thanksgiving dinner at our house in Berkeley! How awesome is that?
Moving in on Thanksgiving Day... what a way to feel at home. I'm happy :)
Anyhow, I have to prepare the corn now! Happy Turkey Day, everyone!
Showing posts with label home. Show all posts
Showing posts with label home. Show all posts
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
[10-23-08] Mariska!
[10:43pm]
I got a new niece! Mariska was born today in the early afternoon, and everyone is fine and happy. I haven't seen her yet, but I plan to get a ride down to Santa Cruz for a day visit on Friday -- to hell with the 20 mile radius, I feel quite nominal.
As for me, well I've just been playing my video games... I'm trying to waste as much time as possible -- I can't wait to get this started! It's like when you're a kid and you're waiting for Christmas... a valid strategy is to sleep excessively :P
To bad I can't sleep to well. It's funny: most people look at their alarm clock with a sense of dread in the morning. I do as well, but in a way that is totally different than you'd expect. One typically says, "Oh man, it's almost 7:00am -- I only have ten more minutes of sleep." I, on the other hand, say, "Oh man, it's almost 7:00am -- last time I was awake was at 6:40am.. it's only been 10 minutes, so little time has passed."
Oh well. It's mostly the mattress, I think. Perhaps I should score a Tempurpedic. But those hospital beds were darn comfortable... I wonder how I'll sleep there... So much anticipation!
I got a new niece! Mariska was born today in the early afternoon, and everyone is fine and happy. I haven't seen her yet, but I plan to get a ride down to Santa Cruz for a day visit on Friday -- to hell with the 20 mile radius, I feel quite nominal.
As for me, well I've just been playing my video games... I'm trying to waste as much time as possible -- I can't wait to get this started! It's like when you're a kid and you're waiting for Christmas... a valid strategy is to sleep excessively :P
To bad I can't sleep to well. It's funny: most people look at their alarm clock with a sense of dread in the morning. I do as well, but in a way that is totally different than you'd expect. One typically says, "Oh man, it's almost 7:00am -- I only have ten more minutes of sleep." I, on the other hand, say, "Oh man, it's almost 7:00am -- last time I was awake was at 6:40am.. it's only been 10 minutes, so little time has passed."
Oh well. It's mostly the mattress, I think. Perhaps I should score a Tempurpedic. But those hospital beds were darn comfortable... I wonder how I'll sleep there... So much anticipation!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
[10-19-08] Living in Stanford Area!
[6:59pm]
I just got my laptop connected to the wireless internet in my new (temporary) home! Yup, I am currently living in the Stanford area!
As I started unpacking my stuff, I realized that I had forgotten a few absolutely necessary things:
1: PC Primary Power Cable
2: Stereo Mini (male to male) Cable
3: My CD Wallet
*sigh* I always do this. Oh well, fortunately, I can salvage the PC primary power cable from my laptop power supply for the time being. Also, I can use a headphone with a female to female stereo coupler... so, I will be able to play my xbox. *whew* Gotta love emergency audio adapters!
Still, it would be nice to have everything in order.
See, I've been making a list and constructing my 6-week mandatory-item nomad pack. What do I need to survive in any environment for a period of 6 weeks? Not surprisingly, technology is a large part of it.
Anyhow, I've got a lot of work to do before I can fall into blissful slumber. (As you can probably guess, getting my computer up and running on the internet is the first item in that list) :P
Ta ta for now! Chemo in two days! Woohoo!
I just got my laptop connected to the wireless internet in my new (temporary) home! Yup, I am currently living in the Stanford area!
As I started unpacking my stuff, I realized that I had forgotten a few absolutely necessary things:
1: PC Primary Power Cable
2: Stereo Mini (male to male) Cable
3: My CD Wallet
*sigh* I always do this. Oh well, fortunately, I can salvage the PC primary power cable from my laptop power supply for the time being. Also, I can use a headphone with a female to female stereo coupler... so, I will be able to play my xbox. *whew* Gotta love emergency audio adapters!
Still, it would be nice to have everything in order.
See, I've been making a list and constructing my 6-week mandatory-item nomad pack. What do I need to survive in any environment for a period of 6 weeks? Not surprisingly, technology is a large part of it.
Anyhow, I've got a lot of work to do before I can fall into blissful slumber. (As you can probably guess, getting my computer up and running on the internet is the first item in that list) :P
Ta ta for now! Chemo in two days! Woohoo!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
[10-15-08] Birthday Day
[10:58pm]
Today I did nothing... it was all I had hoped it would be. Nothing by conventional standards, that is: I played my new video game and read a little fantasy fiction.
In other words, I've turned into a slacker. It's a bit annoying, in fact. A few days ago, I sat in front of my computer with the intent to learn something and progress in skills essential to my career path. I couldn't motivate myself to do so.
Under normal circumstances, it is difficult to delay gratification for future goals. In my circumstances... well, I'd rather wait for a job interview before I buy a new business suit. That money could be used for fun, instead!
Regardless, I am becoming more adept at being a slacker. Sounds strange, huh? I mean, how hard is it to be lazy? Actually, it was quite distressing at first. I felt this huge pressure to accomplish things. Not to mention the enormous guilt attached to myself when I fail to accomplish those things. Then, there's the conquest of boredom: one needs to keep oneself constantly entertained... all those extra hours of the day.
I remember this time, after finals, when I found myself scraping off sticker adhesive off of my dorm door. I was moving out and I had to leave the dorm in pristine condition. However, I was doing this immediately after my last final (In perhaps my most difficult set of finals ever). I recall setting my backpack next to my door and truly enjoying removing that adhesive... with a blissful sense of freedom.
My point is that anything can seem fun when you've spent 100% of your time on work. I didn't have time to eat or socialize or anything during those finals.
Now, with all the spare time in the world, the equation works in reverse. One becomes extra picky about the quality of the television shows that the watch, the video games that they play, or the books that they read -- with more supply, comes higher standards.
So conquering boredom can be difficult at times.
Fortunately, I've encountered an exception book to read and an exception game to play. So I'm good... for now :P
But, of course, I'm not going to hole myself up! Wednesdays aren't opportune for birthday celebrations -- there'll be fun on Saturday.
Today I did nothing... it was all I had hoped it would be. Nothing by conventional standards, that is: I played my new video game and read a little fantasy fiction.
In other words, I've turned into a slacker. It's a bit annoying, in fact. A few days ago, I sat in front of my computer with the intent to learn something and progress in skills essential to my career path. I couldn't motivate myself to do so.
Under normal circumstances, it is difficult to delay gratification for future goals. In my circumstances... well, I'd rather wait for a job interview before I buy a new business suit. That money could be used for fun, instead!
Regardless, I am becoming more adept at being a slacker. Sounds strange, huh? I mean, how hard is it to be lazy? Actually, it was quite distressing at first. I felt this huge pressure to accomplish things. Not to mention the enormous guilt attached to myself when I fail to accomplish those things. Then, there's the conquest of boredom: one needs to keep oneself constantly entertained... all those extra hours of the day.
I remember this time, after finals, when I found myself scraping off sticker adhesive off of my dorm door. I was moving out and I had to leave the dorm in pristine condition. However, I was doing this immediately after my last final (In perhaps my most difficult set of finals ever). I recall setting my backpack next to my door and truly enjoying removing that adhesive... with a blissful sense of freedom.
My point is that anything can seem fun when you've spent 100% of your time on work. I didn't have time to eat or socialize or anything during those finals.
Now, with all the spare time in the world, the equation works in reverse. One becomes extra picky about the quality of the television shows that the watch, the video games that they play, or the books that they read -- with more supply, comes higher standards.
So conquering boredom can be difficult at times.
Fortunately, I've encountered an exception book to read and an exception game to play. So I'm good... for now :P
But, of course, I'm not going to hole myself up! Wednesdays aren't opportune for birthday celebrations -- there'll be fun on Saturday.
Monday, October 13, 2008
[10-13-08] Eek!
[1:34pm]
Eek! How'd I manage to miss my 10-11-08 post? Sorry about that! It's hard to maintain routine when you're away from home. And I've been away from home...
I just got back a few hours ago. First, I spent the weekend with Liz in Berkeley, then a day at my sister's house.
Sometime last Thursday I realized two things: 1: I have enough energy to do things again! Including driving my motorcycle to Berkeley. And 2: The energy probably wont last, so I better take advantage of it.
So, I drove to Berkeley and had a blast! Liz and I watched a few movies, ate some good food, had some good conversations, and rented a house! Yes, a *whole* house! It's a small house, of course, but total luxury for someone like me who is used to a 12'x12' dorm room. I even get an office and my own bathroom! :P Liz will move-in about a month before I do, since I'll probably be in Stanford until about Dec. 12th.
Then I'll move-in, get settled, and return to school yet again! Here's to being a productive member of society!
Speaking of which... time to slack off some more! I have my birthday in two days, then on the 17th I will return to Stanford for my pre-BMT appointment! Treatment starts on the 21st. Plus, my mom shows up on the 15th (from Kentucky)... so a lot of stuff is coming up!
I'm looking forward to more chemo. I mean, I've got millions of little hairs on my head now -- that's not cool! Now is not the time for cellular springtime -- it is Winter!
Eek! How'd I manage to miss my 10-11-08 post? Sorry about that! It's hard to maintain routine when you're away from home. And I've been away from home...
I just got back a few hours ago. First, I spent the weekend with Liz in Berkeley, then a day at my sister's house.
Sometime last Thursday I realized two things: 1: I have enough energy to do things again! Including driving my motorcycle to Berkeley. And 2: The energy probably wont last, so I better take advantage of it.
So, I drove to Berkeley and had a blast! Liz and I watched a few movies, ate some good food, had some good conversations, and rented a house! Yes, a *whole* house! It's a small house, of course, but total luxury for someone like me who is used to a 12'x12' dorm room. I even get an office and my own bathroom! :P Liz will move-in about a month before I do, since I'll probably be in Stanford until about Dec. 12th.
Then I'll move-in, get settled, and return to school yet again! Here's to being a productive member of society!
Speaking of which... time to slack off some more! I have my birthday in two days, then on the 17th I will return to Stanford for my pre-BMT appointment! Treatment starts on the 21st. Plus, my mom shows up on the 15th (from Kentucky)... so a lot of stuff is coming up!
I'm looking forward to more chemo. I mean, I've got millions of little hairs on my head now -- that's not cool! Now is not the time for cellular springtime -- it is Winter!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
[9-21-08] 30 Rock
[8:45pm]
I've got nothing. For the past two days, nothing special has happened and I have done nothing productive (besides a little cleaning). Aren't I cool?
I've been spending my time watching 30 Rock and reading a book. Finally, I've gotten into a book! It's hard for me to get started on a new series, but once I do, I usually tear through them. And that's that!
Oh, and the nurse who said to replace the catheter dressing once a week was crazy! I mean, you're wearing this 24 hours a day; I think it's got to be replaced at *least* twice a week. But maybe that's just me: I like being clean.
Tomorrow I get my chest x-ray at 8am (means getting up at 5:30am)... I'm hoping for an x-ray without problems. Hopefully, I will begin chemo tomorrow! (Yes, I will begin chemo tomorrow while being filled with hope. So :P) Fingers Crossed!
I've got nothing. For the past two days, nothing special has happened and I have done nothing productive (besides a little cleaning). Aren't I cool?
I've been spending my time watching 30 Rock and reading a book. Finally, I've gotten into a book! It's hard for me to get started on a new series, but once I do, I usually tear through them. And that's that!
Oh, and the nurse who said to replace the catheter dressing once a week was crazy! I mean, you're wearing this 24 hours a day; I think it's got to be replaced at *least* twice a week. But maybe that's just me: I like being clean.
Tomorrow I get my chest x-ray at 8am (means getting up at 5:30am)... I'm hoping for an x-ray without problems. Hopefully, I will begin chemo tomorrow! (Yes, I will begin chemo tomorrow while being filled with hope. So :P) Fingers Crossed!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
[9-07-08] Good to be Home
[2:47pm]
With my sister's cold long gone and my WBC rising, I have now been given permission to return to home base. It's a good feeling. I've really missed my family... and my desktop. :P
Tomorrow is the second Stanford appointment! Starting at 10am, I sign the consent form and hopefully get things under way. They also requested my Pet/CT CD, which I took a peek at...
I thought the CD would be full of weird and inaccessible medical mumbo jumbo, but it was quite user friendly. Just plug in the CD, then it installs the software and loads your personal profile. There are cross-sections of your body on the left, and a vertical 3d representation of yourself on the right. I'll post some images sometime later.
Anyhow, the tumor *is* large. And by looking at the cross-sections on the left, I can see the high-activity parts of the tumor. Interesting to note, however, that some non-cancer regions of my body have about the same activity. Also interesting is that the tumor itself is cone-shaped, not solid. It looks kinda like a coffee mug, and the regions of activity are along the edges of the coffee-mug, not the center.
Anyhow, I just got home. So I'm going to get more settled in. More later.
With my sister's cold long gone and my WBC rising, I have now been given permission to return to home base. It's a good feeling. I've really missed my family... and my desktop. :P
Tomorrow is the second Stanford appointment! Starting at 10am, I sign the consent form and hopefully get things under way. They also requested my Pet/CT CD, which I took a peek at...
I thought the CD would be full of weird and inaccessible medical mumbo jumbo, but it was quite user friendly. Just plug in the CD, then it installs the software and loads your personal profile. There are cross-sections of your body on the left, and a vertical 3d representation of yourself on the right. I'll post some images sometime later.
Anyhow, the tumor *is* large. And by looking at the cross-sections on the left, I can see the high-activity parts of the tumor. Interesting to note, however, that some non-cancer regions of my body have about the same activity. Also interesting is that the tumor itself is cone-shaped, not solid. It looks kinda like a coffee mug, and the regions of activity are along the edges of the coffee-mug, not the center.
Anyhow, I just got home. So I'm going to get more settled in. More later.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
[9-02-08] Complaining
[12:35pm]
Two are two people admitted for the same thing in the same hospital: both have accidentally cut off a finger and are bleeding profusely.
The first man screams to the triage nurse, "Ohmygod ohmygod, it HURTS SOOOOO MUCH!!! The PaiN, the aGoNy!!!!. Why me? Why does this have to happen to me??"
The second man calmly approaches the triage nurse, "I seem to have cut off my finger. It is extremely painful."
For both patients, the nurse jots down: "Patient complained of pain due to finger loss."
It seems that complaining, in a medical sense, simply means reporting something negative or distressing. With that in mind, I would like to do some complaining.
So...
I didn't really write all of what I thought...Why was I so upset yesterday?
1:I was homesick. After being away from home for so long, I began to miss all of those wonderful things associated with home.
2:I missed my family, and wanted to tell them what was new in my life, and to find out what was new in theirs. Also, I wanted to see my nieces.
3:I was extremely tired from the trip, and just wanted to lie down. In addition, I was craving my own bed for days now.
4:It's cancer, exerting yet more control on my life.
Ok, now why was I so upset to stay on the boat? First off, I'd like to say that Barbara has been great: she sat me in a comfy corner, did my laundry, purchased food, fed me, and kept me entertained as she cleared room for me to live in. All I had to do was play my little DS until everything was ready.
So, as with every small yacht, there are some things which are more difficult. For example, very quick showers and a pump toilet. And for the person with low hemoglobin, it takes a great deal of effort to make it from the forward berth (bed) to the aft toilet. This trip may happen quite often. It's also Barbara's office, so the small area is quite full of stuff. Anyhow, I'll leave out the rest. Nevertheless, it's not optimal for neutropenic cancer patients.
Ok, enough complaining -- now for some good news! It looks like I wont have another ICE treatment! I sent the following letter to my Stanford Doctor:
I got back the following reply:
So... awesome! I could be getting the transplant sooner than I thought! Oh, and I have an appointment with my oncologist tomorrow morning! So things are moving smoothly!
Two are two people admitted for the same thing in the same hospital: both have accidentally cut off a finger and are bleeding profusely.
The first man screams to the triage nurse, "Ohmygod ohmygod, it HURTS SOOOOO MUCH!!! The PaiN, the aGoNy!!!!. Why me? Why does this have to happen to me??"
The second man calmly approaches the triage nurse, "I seem to have cut off my finger. It is extremely painful."
For both patients, the nurse jots down: "Patient complained of pain due to finger loss."
It seems that complaining, in a medical sense, simply means reporting something negative or distressing. With that in mind, I would like to do some complaining.
So...
I didn't really write all of what I thought...Why was I so upset yesterday?
1:I was homesick. After being away from home for so long, I began to miss all of those wonderful things associated with home.
2:I missed my family, and wanted to tell them what was new in my life, and to find out what was new in theirs. Also, I wanted to see my nieces.
3:I was extremely tired from the trip, and just wanted to lie down. In addition, I was craving my own bed for days now.
4:It's cancer, exerting yet more control on my life.
Ok, now why was I so upset to stay on the boat? First off, I'd like to say that Barbara has been great: she sat me in a comfy corner, did my laundry, purchased food, fed me, and kept me entertained as she cleared room for me to live in. All I had to do was play my little DS until everything was ready.
So, as with every small yacht, there are some things which are more difficult. For example, very quick showers and a pump toilet. And for the person with low hemoglobin, it takes a great deal of effort to make it from the forward berth (bed) to the aft toilet. This trip may happen quite often. It's also Barbara's office, so the small area is quite full of stuff. Anyhow, I'll leave out the rest. Nevertheless, it's not optimal for neutropenic cancer patients.
Ok, enough complaining -- now for some good news! It looks like I wont have another ICE treatment! I sent the following letter to my Stanford Doctor:
Since I have not yet heard from Stanford, I thought I would post my current situation regarding my treatment. Perhaps this will help solidify a schedule for my transfer into Stanford care.
The latest Pet/CT scan, taken 13 days after ICE cycle #2 shows a partial response to the treatment so far. Tumor size has reduced about 10%, and the metabolism has decreased 60% (from a 5 to a 2).
My doctor considers this very good news.
Accordingly, he has scheduled two more cycles of ICE. When I asked him about apheresis, he said that he will do what Stanford recommends. Unfortunately, it seems he has not contacted you all yet -- he said that he would try sometime next week
Apheresis is a big concern right now because, as I understand it, it is possible to expedite the collection of stem cells by combining ICE with G-CSF or some such. I am aware that Cytoxan mobilization is probably the current choice, but it looks like that introduces more delay, and I would like to try my hardest to begin treatment as soon as possible.
If at all possible, would you be willing to coordinate with myself or my doctors to help make it so that I begin outpatient chemo at Stanford as soon as possible? Perhaps starting with apheresis?
Please let me if there is anything else you would like to know. Also, please let me know what you think, or if you could outline a possible schedule for treatment.
Thank you,
- Austin
I got back the following reply:
I have not heard from Dr. Irwin yet so thank you for the update. With some residual disease present after the 2nd ICE, I agree with proceeding to the 3rd ICE- It is my plan to give you cyclophosphamide after this cycle 3 and collect the stem cells off of the cyclophosphamide. A fourth ICE is likely not necessary with your disease responding and our plan to go forward with transplant (keeps the toxicity down).
Zoe should be back in the office after the holiday and will get your calendar set up. There has been no lost time and everything is moving forward smoothly, so not to worry. Thanks again for the message.
So... awesome! I could be getting the transplant sooner than I thought! Oh, and I have an appointment with my oncologist tomorrow morning! So things are moving smoothly!
[9-02-08] Isolation
[12:13am]
It's been a long day. So I'll keep this brief, before I fall into slumber.
Yesterday, Liz and I spent a lovely day looking at a new house for rent. This particular place probably wont work out, but it was fun nonetheless. We also spent a good deal of time trying to get me fed -- which is quite harder than it looks when you are limited to restaurants which serve fully cooked food to patrons outdoors.
It's all due to the neutropenia thing. I can't eat uncooked vegetables or anything for that matter: microbes and whatnot. Also, I can't be in crowded places without a hepa-mask on: people with their colds, and whatnot. So, if we want to eat out, we have to eat outdoors. After waiting about an hour for a seat outdoors, we decided to bail and get some take-out.
(Get This: While looking for alternative food options we found a "taqueria" that did not serve burritos! In fact, the lady got a little snippy when I asked for one. Sheesh, no need to get mad at me just because you work in a pseudo-taqueria. Am I wrong?)
Anyhow, I wake up today (Monday), and Liz drops me off at the bart (transit) station. Dutifully, I don my blue hepa-mask and confirm to the world that I am a cancer-infested chemo-eater. It's not a garment to be proud of. I'm sitting there in a train with two signs: on the left, there is a sign for breast cancer awareness; on the right, there is a sign for a leukemia and lymphoma marathon. Then there is these normal people sitting there casually, noting me, and noting the two cancer signs behind me. I can see them feeling the plague upon them, and not wanting to acknowledge it. For you see, I am sick. And society does not like sick people.
But the topic for today is isolation. I need to protect myself from a cold or something because my immune system is so weak. Accordingly, I need to avoid the deadly germ -- to avoid anything which may propagate or spread this evil menace. So, I can't go home.
Unfortunately, my sister and her daughters seem to have caught a bit of a cold at the herbal symposium this weekend. So, after a long day of traveling, I have to establish a new home-base on the boat to the south...and it is a messy boat too :P Still, I was really, really, really, tired at that point. I wanted nothing more than to just lie down. So, before I can lie down, I've got to get situated. Thankfully, Barbara is getting everything arranged while I casually play my Nintendo DS -- otherwise it'd be all too much.
So, writing really helps me vent... but I feel it necessary to point out that I was really quite pissed off about all this. Not at any thing, and especially not toward any person, except... this damn cancer. I just don't like it. It sucks.
But, as I said, writing helps. I'm good now. I'm going to go make some nachos and then go to sleep. Cancer still sucks, but at least I can still gorge myself on nachos. Goodnight.
It's been a long day. So I'll keep this brief, before I fall into slumber.
Yesterday, Liz and I spent a lovely day looking at a new house for rent. This particular place probably wont work out, but it was fun nonetheless. We also spent a good deal of time trying to get me fed -- which is quite harder than it looks when you are limited to restaurants which serve fully cooked food to patrons outdoors.
It's all due to the neutropenia thing. I can't eat uncooked vegetables or anything for that matter: microbes and whatnot. Also, I can't be in crowded places without a hepa-mask on: people with their colds, and whatnot. So, if we want to eat out, we have to eat outdoors. After waiting about an hour for a seat outdoors, we decided to bail and get some take-out.
(Get This: While looking for alternative food options we found a "taqueria" that did not serve burritos! In fact, the lady got a little snippy when I asked for one. Sheesh, no need to get mad at me just because you work in a pseudo-taqueria. Am I wrong?)
Anyhow, I wake up today (Monday), and Liz drops me off at the bart (transit) station. Dutifully, I don my blue hepa-mask and confirm to the world that I am a cancer-infested chemo-eater. It's not a garment to be proud of. I'm sitting there in a train with two signs: on the left, there is a sign for breast cancer awareness; on the right, there is a sign for a leukemia and lymphoma marathon. Then there is these normal people sitting there casually, noting me, and noting the two cancer signs behind me. I can see them feeling the plague upon them, and not wanting to acknowledge it. For you see, I am sick. And society does not like sick people.
But the topic for today is isolation. I need to protect myself from a cold or something because my immune system is so weak. Accordingly, I need to avoid the deadly germ -- to avoid anything which may propagate or spread this evil menace. So, I can't go home.
Unfortunately, my sister and her daughters seem to have caught a bit of a cold at the herbal symposium this weekend. So, after a long day of traveling, I have to establish a new home-base on the boat to the south...and it is a messy boat too :P Still, I was really, really, really, tired at that point. I wanted nothing more than to just lie down. So, before I can lie down, I've got to get situated. Thankfully, Barbara is getting everything arranged while I casually play my Nintendo DS -- otherwise it'd be all too much.
So, writing really helps me vent... but I feel it necessary to point out that I was really quite pissed off about all this. Not at any thing, and especially not toward any person, except... this damn cancer. I just don't like it. It sucks.
But, as I said, writing helps. I'm good now. I'm going to go make some nachos and then go to sleep. Cancer still sucks, but at least I can still gorge myself on nachos. Goodnight.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
[8-21-08] Vacation
[11:47am]
My appointment for the super important pet-CT scan is scheduled for Monday, the 25th. The following day, I will meet with an oncologist in Berkeley (mine remains on vacation) to discuss the next step. Will I have 2 more ICE treatments? Can I use the salvage ICE for apheresis, instead of waiting longer and using Cytoxan? When will Stanford begin their part? Hopefully, all these questions will be answered by then.
Until then, I am on vacation. School is far away from here; treatment is far away from here. Until the 25th, there's not much I can fret about... or reason to do so. It's not just the distance -- it really feels as if the whole "cancer" thing is further from my mind, here. Plus, there's the whole "don't sweat the small stuff" feeling that arises when there's a diagnosis of this magnitude. So, basically, here I am, without a worry in the world... for the next 4 days. Until then: it's vacation.
After the 25th? Who knows? Treatment could pick up pace (which I hope), or I could have yet more time to burn. Regardless, I'm not counting the month or so in Stanford in my vacation category -- that's probably not going to be a picnic.
My current plan? To have a good time, of course. Tentatively, that also includes a new video game every day. :) Yesterday was Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution -- a pretty fun game where you strategically build and develop a civilization from scratch. Today is a game called Condemned -- I haven't yet played it, but it looks like some sort of horror/sci-fi adventure. Looks fun.
[5:49pm]
I've been spending the day help Dan install a new bathtub. It's a lot of work, and I do get more tired easily, but it is nice to know that I'm still capable, ya know? Those hemoglobins aren't going to stay high forever.
My appointment for the super important pet-CT scan is scheduled for Monday, the 25th. The following day, I will meet with an oncologist in Berkeley (mine remains on vacation) to discuss the next step. Will I have 2 more ICE treatments? Can I use the salvage ICE for apheresis, instead of waiting longer and using Cytoxan? When will Stanford begin their part? Hopefully, all these questions will be answered by then.
Until then, I am on vacation. School is far away from here; treatment is far away from here. Until the 25th, there's not much I can fret about... or reason to do so. It's not just the distance -- it really feels as if the whole "cancer" thing is further from my mind, here. Plus, there's the whole "don't sweat the small stuff" feeling that arises when there's a diagnosis of this magnitude. So, basically, here I am, without a worry in the world... for the next 4 days. Until then: it's vacation.
After the 25th? Who knows? Treatment could pick up pace (which I hope), or I could have yet more time to burn. Regardless, I'm not counting the month or so in Stanford in my vacation category -- that's probably not going to be a picnic.
My current plan? To have a good time, of course. Tentatively, that also includes a new video game every day. :) Yesterday was Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution -- a pretty fun game where you strategically build and develop a civilization from scratch. Today is a game called Condemned -- I haven't yet played it, but it looks like some sort of horror/sci-fi adventure. Looks fun.
[5:49pm]
I've been spending the day help Dan install a new bathtub. It's a lot of work, and I do get more tired easily, but it is nice to know that I'm still capable, ya know? Those hemoglobins aren't going to stay high forever.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
[8-19-08] Getting Settled.
[12:06pm]
Now's the part where I get settled into my new home! First things first: establish the command center (i.e. computer + desk). It's actually a pretty big deal, since I have waaaay too many peripherals. Also, the desk was located up in the office, so you had a pregnant woman and a chemo kid lugging this desk through the brush. But we made it!
So, I guess I'll stay here for a month or so, then head to Stanford. Then, who knows? I feel like somewhat of a nomad. Yet another good reason to live minimally. The strangest part is being out of school: what am I supposed to do with my spare time? When I was in the hospital, that was one thing. In a hospital, you're expected to slack off. Now, in my new home, I get that all too familiar feeling to start accomplishing things. Maybe I'll beef up on my coding skills a bit. Or...play xbox 360 games until my eyes fall out.
On the cancer front, things are going well. The worst passes as you get out of the hospital. All that lingers now is a real lack of stamina and the feeling that I ate (and swallowed) several pennies. An odd feeling.
[3:51pm]
Grades are in! I got an A- in Technical Writing! Woohoo!
Now's the part where I get settled into my new home! First things first: establish the command center (i.e. computer + desk). It's actually a pretty big deal, since I have waaaay too many peripherals. Also, the desk was located up in the office, so you had a pregnant woman and a chemo kid lugging this desk through the brush. But we made it!
So, I guess I'll stay here for a month or so, then head to Stanford. Then, who knows? I feel like somewhat of a nomad. Yet another good reason to live minimally. The strangest part is being out of school: what am I supposed to do with my spare time? When I was in the hospital, that was one thing. In a hospital, you're expected to slack off. Now, in my new home, I get that all too familiar feeling to start accomplishing things. Maybe I'll beef up on my coding skills a bit. Or...play xbox 360 games until my eyes fall out.
On the cancer front, things are going well. The worst passes as you get out of the hospital. All that lingers now is a real lack of stamina and the feeling that I ate (and swallowed) several pennies. An odd feeling.
[3:51pm]
Grades are in! I got an A- in Technical Writing! Woohoo!
Monday, August 18, 2008
[8-18-08] Moving!
[12:49pm]
I got discharged from the hospital at around 9:00am! One of the nurses I'm more familiar with, Janette, walked me out and got me a taxi...the hospital even paid for it! Quite nice. It was really sweet: She told me to "not come back, get a good pet scan, and go straight to Stanford." Then she gave me a hug.
So then, I got some 7-11 nachos (which I've been craving tremendously), stopped by Liz's place, and began moving out!
Despite a strange taste in my mouth and a lot less energy, this was, perhaps, even easier than the first ICE session. Rock on! Of course, my nadir is in about 10 days, so we'll see how I'm feeling then. But for now, I feel great!
Moving Out:
It's sort of a tradition for me. I like to live simply, and move efficiently. So, here's my refined step-by-step guide to moving out, Austin-style:
1:Throw away all trash.
2:Put all your dirty laundry large garbage bags. Put all your clean laundry in different large garbage bags. Make sure you know which is which.
3:Take all your books you have finished reading (and don't use for reference) and sell them. Take all your CDs you've copied to mp3, or don't listen to anymore, and sell them. Sell all your xbox360 games you've already played.
4:Arrange your: "I'll need this immediately where I will live" section. Label this #1.
5:Arrange your: "I'll need this nearby" section. Label this #2.
6:Arrange your: "I'll need this at some point, but I'm willing to drive to storage for it" section. Label this #3.
7:Throw away everything that doesn't fit in any of those three sections -- basically anything you don't need.
8:Sort items into the three sections. If delicate, put in banker's box. Else, just put in a labeled trash bag.
9:Computer always goes last.
And that's it! You've moved out in 3 hours, and move-in will be even easier. Just put #1 in your room, #2 in the garage, and #3 in storage. Plus, you've gotten rid of a lot of useless stuff and simplified your life.
So now I'm just going to waste time on the internet until Dan get's here. And, yeah, I'm not driving my motorcycle to Aptos. We'll pick it up later.
I got discharged from the hospital at around 9:00am! One of the nurses I'm more familiar with, Janette, walked me out and got me a taxi...the hospital even paid for it! Quite nice. It was really sweet: She told me to "not come back, get a good pet scan, and go straight to Stanford." Then she gave me a hug.
So then, I got some 7-11 nachos (which I've been craving tremendously), stopped by Liz's place, and began moving out!
Despite a strange taste in my mouth and a lot less energy, this was, perhaps, even easier than the first ICE session. Rock on! Of course, my nadir is in about 10 days, so we'll see how I'm feeling then. But for now, I feel great!
Moving Out:
It's sort of a tradition for me. I like to live simply, and move efficiently. So, here's my refined step-by-step guide to moving out, Austin-style:
1:Throw away all trash.
2:Put all your dirty laundry large garbage bags. Put all your clean laundry in different large garbage bags. Make sure you know which is which.
3:Take all your books you have finished reading (and don't use for reference) and sell them. Take all your CDs you've copied to mp3, or don't listen to anymore, and sell them. Sell all your xbox360 games you've already played.
4:Arrange your: "I'll need this immediately where I will live" section. Label this #1.
5:Arrange your: "I'll need this nearby" section. Label this #2.
6:Arrange your: "I'll need this at some point, but I'm willing to drive to storage for it" section. Label this #3.
7:Throw away everything that doesn't fit in any of those three sections -- basically anything you don't need.
8:Sort items into the three sections. If delicate, put in banker's box. Else, just put in a labeled trash bag.
9:Computer always goes last.
And that's it! You've moved out in 3 hours, and move-in will be even easier. Just put #1 in your room, #2 in the garage, and #3 in storage. Plus, you've gotten rid of a lot of useless stuff and simplified your life.
So now I'm just going to waste time on the internet until Dan get's here. And, yeah, I'm not driving my motorcycle to Aptos. We'll pick it up later.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
[8-16-08] ICE, Day Three
[9:21am]
Got a good night's sleep. So nice. It's hard to get to sleep in a strange place, on a strange bed, with random people waking you up at random times of the night. Sleeping pills are necessary to get a full night's sleep, at least for me.
Anyhow, I did the normal routine. Since I have to water-protect my port, I wash my hair in the sink. And, I just could not believe the amount that came out! It looks like I'm going to lose my 10 day bet -- it's going to be like 3 or 4 more days, I believe. I already have bald streaks on the side of my head. Interesting to note where the hair is first lost.
Also, they've been giving me some "magic mouthwash" for some of the sores I have under the tongue. It's not all that bad, just really annoying. Makes saying a few words and eating Cheetos a little painful. So, even though my case is about as mild as it gets, I always take the path of least pain. Apparently, it's due to a low white blood count (though mine is not *that* low).
The downside to the mouthwash, is that it makes me feel a bit queasy for an hour or so afterwards.
[10:45am]
It seems I've been talking so much about events, that I haven't said much on how I am feeling about all this. The cancer, the hospitalization, the hair loss, the chemo, withdrawal from school, scary BMT, moving in with family, and general emotional state. So, I thought I'd say a few words about it. In general, I'm doing absolutely fine with all this. Mood is good. Don't worry, I'll be sure to complain or be pessimistic when the time comes. But, right now, it's all good.
Specifically,
The Cancer: I'm confident that ICE will show enough progress after 2 or 4 cycles to send me to the BMT program. My belief that 2 cycles will get it done is going up with time. I believe the BMT will send me to a remission, with a decent chance of a permanent cure (although I recognize the chance of a relapse or secondary cancer). Also, I am fairly certain that I will have some long-term side-effects maybe 10 years or so down the road. But I am also sure that they can be handled with proper healthy behavior, and medical upkeep.
The BMT: Looking forward to it; it should be interesting. I know it will be totally tough, and I'll be pretty decrepit at times... but, I expect the BMT to the coup de grâce for the evil tumor, and that's exciting. Liz told me not to use the word "burden," so instead I will say: "I want to minimize how much of a workload I am to my family through all of this. I totally recognize that this is tough on everyone, and don't want anyone to feel any obligation whatsoever."
Hair Loss: It sucks, but I'm cool with it. Kinda neat, in a way. But, then again, it's like wearing a hospital gown: an indication to the world that you are sick. I don't like that.
Hospital: Things are great here. I do feel a bit trapped, but with the internet, and movies, and my book, I'm pretty well entertained. Food quality and quantity needs a little boost though. I'm starting to get into this novel, so I look forward to getting totally lost in a fantasy series (thanks, Liz!).
Chemo: Starting to feel the effects of the chemo again; getting flashbacks to the harder parts of the Stanford V. But, still, I'm handling it extremely well. So, I'm not bothered much by it...yet.
Withdrawal from School: I'm more bothered by this, than by anything else. School represents moving forward in life. Not only that, but redemption. Having to withdraw previously, and basically wasting away my potential for three years has really taught me the negative aspects of myself. Doing well, being productive, and generally being positive to those around you are what it's all about. That's why graduation from Berkeley is so profoundly important to me. I know that a bit hard on myself, but that's the plain truth of how I feel.
Staying in school (finishing fall and summer sessions) while undergoing chemo and cancer treatment has been a personal victory for me. I'm proud of that. Having to withdraw due to cancer evens the score. It is a battle. :P
Moving in with family: Same "workload" considerations as before. I'm really looking forward to their company. Just yet another example of how awesome my family is. I mean, I think most people envision long time spent with their family with some amount of dread. But we're a tightly knit group. We're friends; we hang out for no occasion whatsoever. Awesome and special. The downside is that I'll see Liz less frequently.
So, that's the status report. All in all, things are quite good.
[11:40am]
Heh heh. I just ordered more Japanese food. I love spoiling myself... might as well. :)
[12:51pm]
Food Delivery Fiasco: About ten minutes after I ordered the Japanese food, I was sent to have my pulmonary function test. I thought it would be a short affair, but it actually took about 25 minutes. But priorities, you know? A PFT is *way* more important than Japanese food. Anyhow, so about 20 minutes into the PFT, my nurse runs up to the room I am in and says: "Did you order take-out? There's a guy with takeout waiting next to your room." I asked the nurse if he could take some money out of my wallet, left in the room. They nice guy just asked me if I had enough money, then said I could pay him back. Super cool of him. I imagine the delivery guy was quite upset, though. He was tipped well, but I don't believe they'll be delivering to my room again. [Edit: Actually, the nurse thought my tip was too big. Gave him a 3 dollar tip on a 22 dollar meal -- ouch!] :P
On a good note, it looks like I've passed the PFT with flying colors. So, nothing's stopping me from Stanford BMT!
Oh, and when I was sorting through my delivery, a food-service person came in because I forgot to turn in my menu. I was standing next to the window when she asked, "Do you know where the patient is?" I thought that was awesome.
[2:06pm]
Chemo is starting a little late today. Time for a little pre-chemo Ativan nap.
[12:35pm]
Just shaved the last of my facial hair with my fingers. Looks like I was short on the bet by about 8 days -- I've definitely hit the 50% marker. Good night, hair.
Got a good night's sleep. So nice. It's hard to get to sleep in a strange place, on a strange bed, with random people waking you up at random times of the night. Sleeping pills are necessary to get a full night's sleep, at least for me.
Anyhow, I did the normal routine. Since I have to water-protect my port, I wash my hair in the sink. And, I just could not believe the amount that came out! It looks like I'm going to lose my 10 day bet -- it's going to be like 3 or 4 more days, I believe. I already have bald streaks on the side of my head. Interesting to note where the hair is first lost.
Also, they've been giving me some "magic mouthwash" for some of the sores I have under the tongue. It's not all that bad, just really annoying. Makes saying a few words and eating Cheetos a little painful. So, even though my case is about as mild as it gets, I always take the path of least pain. Apparently, it's due to a low white blood count (though mine is not *that* low).
The downside to the mouthwash, is that it makes me feel a bit queasy for an hour or so afterwards.
[10:45am]
It seems I've been talking so much about events, that I haven't said much on how I am feeling about all this. The cancer, the hospitalization, the hair loss, the chemo, withdrawal from school, scary BMT, moving in with family, and general emotional state. So, I thought I'd say a few words about it. In general, I'm doing absolutely fine with all this. Mood is good. Don't worry, I'll be sure to complain or be pessimistic when the time comes. But, right now, it's all good.
Specifically,
The Cancer: I'm confident that ICE will show enough progress after 2 or 4 cycles to send me to the BMT program. My belief that 2 cycles will get it done is going up with time. I believe the BMT will send me to a remission, with a decent chance of a permanent cure (although I recognize the chance of a relapse or secondary cancer). Also, I am fairly certain that I will have some long-term side-effects maybe 10 years or so down the road. But I am also sure that they can be handled with proper healthy behavior, and medical upkeep.
The BMT: Looking forward to it; it should be interesting. I know it will be totally tough, and I'll be pretty decrepit at times... but, I expect the BMT to the coup de grâce for the evil tumor, and that's exciting. Liz told me not to use the word "burden," so instead I will say: "I want to minimize how much of a workload I am to my family through all of this. I totally recognize that this is tough on everyone, and don't want anyone to feel any obligation whatsoever."
Hair Loss: It sucks, but I'm cool with it. Kinda neat, in a way. But, then again, it's like wearing a hospital gown: an indication to the world that you are sick. I don't like that.
Hospital: Things are great here. I do feel a bit trapped, but with the internet, and movies, and my book, I'm pretty well entertained. Food quality and quantity needs a little boost though. I'm starting to get into this novel, so I look forward to getting totally lost in a fantasy series (thanks, Liz!).
Chemo: Starting to feel the effects of the chemo again; getting flashbacks to the harder parts of the Stanford V. But, still, I'm handling it extremely well. So, I'm not bothered much by it...yet.
Withdrawal from School: I'm more bothered by this, than by anything else. School represents moving forward in life. Not only that, but redemption. Having to withdraw previously, and basically wasting away my potential for three years has really taught me the negative aspects of myself. Doing well, being productive, and generally being positive to those around you are what it's all about. That's why graduation from Berkeley is so profoundly important to me. I know that a bit hard on myself, but that's the plain truth of how I feel.
Staying in school (finishing fall and summer sessions) while undergoing chemo and cancer treatment has been a personal victory for me. I'm proud of that. Having to withdraw due to cancer evens the score. It is a battle. :P
Moving in with family: Same "workload" considerations as before. I'm really looking forward to their company. Just yet another example of how awesome my family is. I mean, I think most people envision long time spent with their family with some amount of dread. But we're a tightly knit group. We're friends; we hang out for no occasion whatsoever. Awesome and special. The downside is that I'll see Liz less frequently.
So, that's the status report. All in all, things are quite good.
[11:40am]
Heh heh. I just ordered more Japanese food. I love spoiling myself... might as well. :)
[12:51pm]
Food Delivery Fiasco: About ten minutes after I ordered the Japanese food, I was sent to have my pulmonary function test. I thought it would be a short affair, but it actually took about 25 minutes. But priorities, you know? A PFT is *way* more important than Japanese food. Anyhow, so about 20 minutes into the PFT, my nurse runs up to the room I am in and says: "Did you order take-out? There's a guy with takeout waiting next to your room." I asked the nurse if he could take some money out of my wallet, left in the room. They nice guy just asked me if I had enough money, then said I could pay him back. Super cool of him. I imagine the delivery guy was quite upset, though. He was tipped well, but I don't believe they'll be delivering to my room again. [Edit: Actually, the nurse thought my tip was too big. Gave him a 3 dollar tip on a 22 dollar meal -- ouch!] :P
On a good note, it looks like I've passed the PFT with flying colors. So, nothing's stopping me from Stanford BMT!
Oh, and when I was sorting through my delivery, a food-service person came in because I forgot to turn in my menu. I was standing next to the window when she asked, "Do you know where the patient is?" I thought that was awesome.
[2:06pm]
Chemo is starting a little late today. Time for a little pre-chemo Ativan nap.
[12:35pm]
Just shaved the last of my facial hair with my fingers. Looks like I was short on the bet by about 8 days -- I've definitely hit the 50% marker. Good night, hair.
Monday, August 4, 2008
[8-04-08] Insurance and School
[10:31am]
It is both dreadful and invigorating to be back on my feet again! There's all these challenges to be solved, appointments to schedule, hurtles to overcome...it's life! On the other hand, there's a ton of challenges with unknown solutions, appointments unscheduled, and all sorts of tedious hurtles...I just want to crawl back in bed.
*Ahem* Such is the way things are.
First on my agenda was to get my prescriptions. I got my handy-dandy bottle of ativan last night, and it has served me well. However, to get all the really expensive meds, I needed to go to the UC Berkeley pharmacy. (They classify chemotherapy related meds in a basically "unlimited" category, unlike my other insurances.) Unfortunately, they were all out of Zolfran and Emend -- my two strongest anti-emetics. I'll have to wait for tomorrow to get them. Hehe, the pharmacist knew me and why I needed the meds, and he looked a bit concerned: "I'll hold this prescription on stand-by, if things get worse, give me a call and at least you can be set up at another pharmacy out of pocket." This is one of those aforementioned challenges... no problem. I'll just have to use what I've got for the time being. :P
Next on the agenda, was to try to figure out the insurance dilemma. After talking to the UC Berkeley insurance rep, I was given the curt answer: "Sorry, you're out of luck. If you're not a UC Berkeley student, you get no insurance, and we don't have COBRA or anything." Bah.
After a quick talk with my DSP (Disabled Students Program) advisor, I learn that the solution is quite simple: Enroll in classes, and either drop right after the 5 week deadline, or withdraw on the last day of class. I believe both lets you keep financial aid, withdrawing on the last day may be safer. I have an appointment with my Social Services liaison tomorrow -- she knows how to work the system.
So, yay! I'm not screwed! Well, at least insurance-wise. Pulling these stunts does mean that I will not receive financial aid for my last semester at Cal. Hurdle: overcome (mostly).
Last in line, is to schedule my appointment with Dr. Wexler so that I may get more ICE! I need my fix within 10 days. Bah, no one there, appointments: not yet scheduled. [Revision: They will get back to me]
Well, 2 out of 3 ain't bad. Now to work on my term paper... ergh, gimme another ativan.
It is both dreadful and invigorating to be back on my feet again! There's all these challenges to be solved, appointments to schedule, hurtles to overcome...it's life! On the other hand, there's a ton of challenges with unknown solutions, appointments unscheduled, and all sorts of tedious hurtles...I just want to crawl back in bed.
*Ahem* Such is the way things are.
First on my agenda was to get my prescriptions. I got my handy-dandy bottle of ativan last night, and it has served me well. However, to get all the really expensive meds, I needed to go to the UC Berkeley pharmacy. (They classify chemotherapy related meds in a basically "unlimited" category, unlike my other insurances.) Unfortunately, they were all out of Zolfran and Emend -- my two strongest anti-emetics. I'll have to wait for tomorrow to get them. Hehe, the pharmacist knew me and why I needed the meds, and he looked a bit concerned: "I'll hold this prescription on stand-by, if things get worse, give me a call and at least you can be set up at another pharmacy out of pocket." This is one of those aforementioned challenges... no problem. I'll just have to use what I've got for the time being. :P
Next on the agenda, was to try to figure out the insurance dilemma. After talking to the UC Berkeley insurance rep, I was given the curt answer: "Sorry, you're out of luck. If you're not a UC Berkeley student, you get no insurance, and we don't have COBRA or anything." Bah.
After a quick talk with my DSP (Disabled Students Program) advisor, I learn that the solution is quite simple: Enroll in classes, and either drop right after the 5 week deadline, or withdraw on the last day of class. I believe both lets you keep financial aid, withdrawing on the last day may be safer. I have an appointment with my Social Services liaison tomorrow -- she knows how to work the system.
So, yay! I'm not screwed! Well, at least insurance-wise. Pulling these stunts does mean that I will not receive financial aid for my last semester at Cal. Hurdle: overcome (mostly).
Last in line, is to schedule my appointment with Dr. Wexler so that I may get more ICE! I need my fix within 10 days. Bah, no one there, appointments: not yet scheduled. [Revision: They will get back to me]
Well, 2 out of 3 ain't bad. Now to work on my term paper... ergh, gimme another ativan.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
[8-03-08] Home Sweet Home
[10:13pm]
It's good to be home. Next time, however, I'll show the foresight to clean before I go get ICE. I've got a full day of stuff to do tomorrow:
1> Work out withdrawal from UC Berkeley
2> Schedule Appointment. with DR. Wexler
3> Get all these prescriptions filled
4> Finish Term Paper before Tuesday.
5> Find out how to solve insurance dilemma (see 1)
By the way, I just got a hand made quilt from Liz's mom. It's totally beautiful, and totally thoughtful. When she was going through chemo, her best friend made her a quilt. Now I have one of my own, and it even sports rustic colors :P No more lame hospital blankets! Thanks so much!
Ok, back tzzzzzzzz.
[2:46am]
For the summer, due to all the students returning home, a lot of Irish, for some reason, like to move into the dorms and halls of UC Berkeley. Overnight it turns into some sort of party school, with people chanting Irish jigs in the streets. It was fun when I got the bad news, to drop everything and go partying with them. Now, I just want some sleep... and they keep waking me up
with belligerent noises. Bah.
Been thinking about my schedule... [Edited, thanks Liz!]
8-13 to 8-17 In-Patient Chemo
8-27 to 8-31 In-Patient Chemo * Optional
9-10 to 9-14 In-Patient Chemo * Optional
9-28 to 10-28 Stanford BMT Program
If we time it juuuust right, we can make it so that my re-birthday (day at which stem cells are returned) coincides actually with my actual birthday! As far as I know, one can expect 5-12 days before stem cells are returned. Factoring a slight delay before Stanford, and we're set! That'd be sweet! Then I could choose between, say, 2 candles on the cake, or 29.
It's good to be home. Next time, however, I'll show the foresight to clean before I go get ICE. I've got a full day of stuff to do tomorrow:
1> Work out withdrawal from UC Berkeley
2> Schedule Appointment. with DR. Wexler
3> Get all these prescriptions filled
4> Finish Term Paper before Tuesday.
5> Find out how to solve insurance dilemma (see 1)
By the way, I just got a hand made quilt from Liz's mom. It's totally beautiful, and totally thoughtful. When she was going through chemo, her best friend made her a quilt. Now I have one of my own, and it even sports rustic colors :P No more lame hospital blankets! Thanks so much!
Ok, back tzzzzzzzz.
[2:46am]
For the summer, due to all the students returning home, a lot of Irish, for some reason, like to move into the dorms and halls of UC Berkeley. Overnight it turns into some sort of party school, with people chanting Irish jigs in the streets. It was fun when I got the bad news, to drop everything and go partying with them. Now, I just want some sleep... and they keep waking me up
with belligerent noises. Bah.
Been thinking about my schedule... [Edited, thanks Liz!]
8-13 to 8-17 In-Patient Chemo
8-27 to 8-31 In-Patient Chemo * Optional
9-10 to 9-14 In-Patient Chemo * Optional
9-28 to 10-28 Stanford BMT Program
If we time it juuuust right, we can make it so that my re-birthday (day at which stem cells are returned) coincides actually with my actual birthday! As far as I know, one can expect 5-12 days before stem cells are returned. Factoring a slight delay before Stanford, and we're set! That'd be sweet! Then I could choose between, say, 2 candles on the cake, or 29.
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