Nancy writing (sister-in-law, married to Deb's brother, Jim)
Well, today was a busy, busy day. First on the agenda was Deb's EGD. (a scope of Deb's esophagus, stomach, and pyloris) and before I get into the results, I want to say that this was done at Zeeland Hospital which is where Deb worked a few years ago (actually, she had her scan in the same department where she used to work!) I must say that Deb is known and loved by all. Her former co-workers had sunflowers and a huge basket of goodies waiting for her.....fresh produce (corn, cucumbers, green beans, raspberries, strawberries & peaches) honey, wine, muffins, a devotional book, CD, a great scarf and the cutest basket!! (and of course, a card signed by all) Did I say it was huge? (I know, I carried it to the car) :)
So now the report: She had areas of ulceration in her stomach and pyloris probably caused by pressure on her vascular system from the tumor behind several her stomach causing areas of ischemia...and also caused by the stress that her body has been under. Dr. Peshka started her on Prilosec and also suggested a few modifications to her diet. ie...5 small meals a day, adding protein to her diet via something like protein shakes and also suggested chicken soup (blended, so that it is not too chunky!) We all know we feel better when we eat chicken soup! :)
Mieke and Krista made her a smoothie when we got home today with protein and some of the fresh fruit that was in her goodie basket.
The 2nd stop today was Holland Hospital where she had her port put in. She had minimal drugs for that procedure and was awake as they did it - they used a local anesthetic....and by 4:15 she was ready to go home. We sat out on her sun porch as we enjoyed a wonderful dinner that was brought over by Sara.
On the schedule tomorrow, is her chemo consult. We will find out more about the protocol, her chemo schedule, and when it will begin. We are so hoping that it will be soon. She is eager to get this thing started. So...when you read this, please pray for Deb, her family and our extended family. Everyone says this is a marathon, not a sprint.....but we are at the start line eager to start! :)
Sounds like quite a day. I'm anxious for you to get this underway too. It must be wonderful to have so many people caring for you, and all the meals, that's an added bonus. Do you get to drink the wine in the basket? I look forward to reading about your progress every day. Let's get this show on the road.
ReplyDeleteLOL
Debbie S
Thanks for the report on the day. You have lots of sideline support for the marathon!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Donna VI
Hey Deb,
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear everything went good today. You are one step closer to getting started now. I hope it all goes well for you. You are very strong and will do just fine!
Love and Prayers,
~Deb Hamelink
Deb,
ReplyDeleteIt was GREAT to see you today and that I could be one of the nurses in the room when you had your EGD...although I have to admit that I shed a few tears while holding your hand as you drifted off to la-la land before your proceedure.
Your port is a gift! I know when I had mine it relly helped to get only 1 "poke" instead of having someone continuously trying to find a vein in my arm or hand. Use some "numbing" medicine on the port before your proceedure and you won't feel a thing except for a little bit of pressure as the needle goes in.
It was so nice to meet your sister and sister-in-law today. You are blest to have such a wonderful and caring family who care for you so much. I could feel the love in the room today. Continue to know that you and your family are in all my thoughts and prayers.
With love,
Ellen W.
Debbie yes what a day....I am hoping that today's visit goes well and you find the news that it will be soon....Prayers headed your way to surround you and give you Peace....Ok now back to the hair...I have been collecting Lily's hair for you and now have enough that you could pull it back and braid it if you wanted....just kidding but I did think of you when I was picking it all up....Love you Deb...hugs to all....take care my friend...Char and Lily who again sends a huge Newfie kiss.....
ReplyDeleteHi Deb, sending you hugs and prayers your way! It seems like you are dotting your I's and crossing your T's, so that when the Dr. says "we need to use 'greenkoolaidblastin' for your cancer" you can say "do we do this here or do you want me to go to another room, cause I am READY!" Will see you on Monday with a meal; any special requests, just call me.... Fondly, Claudia M. (BBC)
ReplyDeleteSo happy to hear that you got your port and that things are happening! That means you are on the road to recovery! Since the road is a very busy one, you should designate someone to be your secretary. They can keep a calendar for you, recording what happened each day and who took care of you. Also set up a binder with every paper you receive, your chemo calendars, etc. These will really come in handy as you move forward. We have been doing this for Andrew, and it has proved valuable over the 2 year marathon (and counting. . .) We think of you and your family daily, and know that you are in good hands. All the best, Sue Vanderwagen
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