Prayer

The last post I wrote was us talking to the PA about a chemo break for the month.  That was granted and up until recently I was planning on resuming chemo on January 4.  

Recently (as in a few days ago) I received a call from my Oncologist.  He told me that his meeting with the tumor board met and the surgeons thought it possible to perform surgery.  He put in a referral to the surgeon we wished to have a consult with.  I'll continue this thought in a bit.  So please stick with me.

Fast forward with me from the Surgeons call to my visit to the vetrinarian last Thursday.  Miranda had a toenail fall out and her toe never healed properly so we were in to see a vet I trusted.  He spent a few minutes on the floor looking at the toe and then got up and said.  "I don't really want to add any more to your plate."  What I told him when he asked how I was is that my cancer returned and I had 12 treatments.  He followed  by telling me He believed Miranda's toe was likely cancer.  He did some talking to ask me pertinent questions and inform the tech what the plan is.  The tech stepped out of the room and what happened next is why this is applicable to my journey.  The vet (who we know well) knelt down by the chair I was sitting in, Put his hand on my shoulder and began praying for me, Miranda and our family.  I don't know if I ever can say until now that I was prayed for in the Vetrinarians office.  

Since I often joke when stress gets to high I began saying don't drink the water at home.  Leah began saying there are 2 with cancer (me and the dog) and 2 with a missing toe (Leah and the dog).   To be honest, her surgery went well and we had her toe sent in for path reults although that likely won't change our future decision for her.

Now back to the referral.  Yesterday I got a call from the Surgical Oncology office saying they had a referral from my Oncologist and would like to get me scheduled.  I missed the call at that time so today it was on my schedule to return that call.  I was given 2 dates prior to Jan 4 and what worked best was the morning of Jan 2.  My current Oncologist told me in the phone call he would suggest holding chemo until surgery.

So Jan 2  I will have a surgical consult and then Jan 4 I have a meeting with my PA for my oncologist and she will pull my new oncologist into the meeting.  During that meeting I will reiterate that I will hold chemo until surgery happens and I will have the chance to meet my new Oncologist.  My regular chemo nurse is returning to the blue pod after the first of the year.  She's sad she won't see us for while.  If we're in the building you never know what might happen.

Many days I hear about someone new that is praying for me.  And the Christmas Cards this year have had a similar theme of  "we are praying for you".  To all of you reading this, I/we appreciate your prayers for each step in this journery.  We serve a Mighty God who answers prayer.

~ Kent

Am I staying?

Today was my appointment with the PA and Chemo.  We packed and planned as if we were going through with Chemo even though we were trying our hardest to get a well deserved break from Chemo.   Physically and mentally I need some time to live a bit normal.  

While visiting with the PA we went over the scan results ( refer to the last post if you didn't hear about this) which was good news.  We quickly shifted the discussion to ask, is the tumor shrinking toward or away from the Portal Vein? Is Doc bringing my case to the tumor board to discuss surgical options?  The next question was can we have this Chemo break over the next 2 treatment days (today and Dec 21)?  Our PA wrote everything down and didn't have a lot to say other than "Let me step out and check with your doc and I'll be back"

So what was several minutes but seemed like an eternity, Leah and I waited in the exam room together with no distractions.  When the PA came back in she said, "I was not presented to the tumor board today." so, Doc will present my case before them next Thursday.  All GI Oncology Docs are present in this tumor board as are Surgical Oncology Doctors. They will discuss me as it pertains to treatment/ surgery. I should hear back from my Doc Thursday or Friday next week.  In regards to how the tumor is shrinking, the Doctor said surgeons have amazing methods to see how it is postioned relative to the Portal Vein.  All that to say is it is really up to surgeons to determine where the tumor is positioned and if that leads to a possible surgery.

Per the Chemo break my PA said, he reacted in the manner of "a month?".  We/she did enough convincing that neither my current or new Oncologist said, "No" to the break.  So the next treatment is scheduled on Jan 4.  We should know more about any surgical options by then and if we are planning on surgery we would need to hold one of the medications I recieve during treatment.  So from that perspective this is good pre planning.

I just need more than 1 week (consecutively) that I can live life normal and have a relatively "normal" amout of energy.  I'm thankful I'll be able to see family during the Christmas season (and remember it).

Until I have more news next week...

~Kent

The wait.

(Written Monday night.)

Last Thursday Nov 30 I had a CT scan to check progress of the Chemo.  We have been waiting (not so patiently) for some answers in the test results.  Both Leah and I struggle with a time period of not knowing.  For the last 5 days we wondered what was happening to the Tumor as well as are we able to take a "chemo break" for this month.  Those close to me will tell you exactly how tired both mentally and pysically I am from the treatments.  I no sooner get some energy back and then the treatment starts again.

Tonight while we were at dinner when I got a message from My Chart.  As I logged in to the app I found it was the CT results.  I quickly read through the report looking for numbers and didn't understand clearly until I read the whole report out loud.   The last CT was measured in MM and this one in CM

The tumor was 5.8 x 4.0 CM (58 x 40 MM) as of Nov 30 from my CT the size is 4.9 x 3.0 CM (49 x 30 MM).  This indicates a size reduction by about 1 CM each direction.  The next question we have is did it shrink toward or away from the Portal vein.  The report did not say one way or the other.  So this will be one of the questions for the PA.  The other big question the PA will get is about our wish for a "chemo break".  A couple weeks ago when we had an appointment with the Oncologist during which he indicated he would be ok with it.  So at least we know what the tumor is doing and we will yet again have to wait to see if I am or am not doing a chemo treatment on Thursday.  

I've told the people that need to know what my plan is.  Essentially we have to plan for either case and be flexible.  The first thing my Oncologist told me 12 years ago was that Cancer is inconvenient.  He was and is right.  Just like this week we'll likely pack as if we are staying all day for treatment even we don't plan on following through with it.

Our desire is to take this Month as our break and then return for treatment after the first of the year if I'm not seeing someone for surgery. If the surgeons think surgery is an option I'll consult with one of them and they will likely want another scan to get a better picture and then they'll schedule surgery.

So until Thursday we wait again for more answers. 

~ Kent

Give Thanks!

Some time between 10-12 years ago at Thanksgiving we gathered with my family for a celebration.  My Mom had a craft foam leaf wreath and the task presented to us was to take a leaf or more and write on the leaf what you were thankful for.  That year there were one or more leaves which contained the names of my doctors and nurses as I went through my first cancer journey.  

This year I have a few new names I would add to the doctor and nurses "leaf" and one in particular whose name I know and have not met.  She will become my new Oncologist.  This year I have a few more leaves I would like to add to the wreath.

One of the leaves would be dedicated to family. Two names I need to mention are Lydia and Leah.

Lydia has been my most loving daughter for 19 years and her heart for me and for others just makes me smile on a daily basis.  Tonight I got to hear how God tapped her on the shoulder through what others were telling her what to do.  It is exciting to see God moving in her life and using others to assist in that.  She cares deeply for others and I am appreciative of her for that. 

Leah has been the best cargiver and spouse as we trudge through this journey together.  In most every way she has been what I am unable to be.  She often goes above and beyond caring for me during treatments and even days in between treatment.  She is a rockstar when it comes to anticipating what I need and already having thought about it and executed it ahead of time.  Our often repated phrase is "10 Steps" as that's how far ahead she is.  Leah also cares deeply and I reap the direct benefits from that too.

Both Leah's Mom and my Mom have been super helpful when there is something we need whether it comes down to a treatment or just something else not related.  I appreciate their willingness to use their time and energy to help out when there is something we need.

My final leaf I still count as family, but is technically church family.  I have the pleasure of being associate with 2 churches and there are people in both communities that care for me and pray for our family as we keep trudging.  I appreciate the teachings and the worship in both churches and hope to continue that for many years into the future.  

Even if your name or title didn't appear in this post, don't think I'm not thankful for you.  Each one of you who put prayers or encouragement here or in another methods, you may not know but those are so appreciated and I'm thankful for each of you as I go through those interactions.  I read the comments here often and will long into the future.

What or who are you truly thankful for?  I feel so full from all the people that help us out in any manner.  It's humbling to know especially when you are at your worst there are hundreds or thousands of people out there praying with my name on their lips.

As I close I have 1 piece of  information relating to my medical journey.  Today I got a message from Cancer and Hematology through My care space portal.  They aouthorized my CT and gave me the number to schedule that.  Thursday November 30 in the morning I will have my CT.  This will be 6 days after treatment number 12.  That treatment is Friday the day after Thanksgiving day.  

Pray I recover from this treamtent quickly and also Pray for good results from the CT and continue to pray the tumor surgeons will be open to the possibilty of surgery.

~Kent

Did you get the mail?

Written Friday November 9th.

 Yesterday's mail came in the house, this morning after Kent asked me If I braved the rain to get the mail. You see we sign up for a service where we can see what mail is coming each day.  

The mail set the tone of the day. In the mail Kent saw that we were about to recieve a letter from Cancer and Hematolgy.  He opened the letter and we were given news that our doctor would no longer be working at the Lemmon Holton office as he was taking an interest in full time work devoting his time to clinical trails as he already was doing the other 4 days he wasn't practicing in our cancer center. Let down and disappointed we were for sure, but we will handle yet another change as it comes.  The letter said the switch will happen after the 1st of the year.

Today, was chemo treatment 11.  I can hardly believe that!  We started the day early as Kent had labs, a doctor visit and chemo treatment.  It was a long day.  We started the day at 7:55 am and a return trip home at about 3:15 pm.  As we met with Kent's doctor he shared with us, this... We are a go ahead with chemo treatment 11 and 12 and he would put Kent down for a CT scan before we would approach any further chemo.  A CT scan rather than a MRI or PET because he is one who like to compare two like scans. The doctor reassured us that he would be able to image all of the tumor. We were a bit scared as a CT we feel isn't as telling.  He would read and share the scan results and then further discuss with us what he would like us to do moving forward.  We showed interest in being reviewed with the tumor board, Kent's cancer and likelyhood of a possible surgery.  We understand where Kent's tumor is located is a risky surgery but if we are able to take the tumor out and still continue chemo we feel like it would help Kent know he may have less active cancer in him and less cancer to have to fight. We also discussed the transition between doctors and what that would look like. 

Then we moved into Chemo treatment.  Today we had a window view.  It was lovely with the much deserved sun after such rain yesterday. It was a less busy than other weeks, this was a blessing for Kent.  We had our "new temperary nurse" again.  She is a great nurse and Kent seems to do well with her.  Kent is grateful that I am there as there are times when he is not clear due to medications and that I can advocate for him.  Each nurse has several patients and many meds to keep track of and as another set of eyes and ears I just remember what he gets from the beginning of his treatments.  Kent slept a better part of the day in treatment and I think that is good.  He recieves a series of meds and then the end drug is the actual chemo.  Each time it runs I often look at the bag and pray somehow it kills every inch of cancer in him.  I spend a lot of time thinking and praying for a miracle of no cancer and that the chemo shrinks it all. 

The week prior to chemo 11 was great for Kent.  Many good days and quality life spent doing things he anticipates wanting to do when on treatment.  Kent and I love going out to eat and making surprise visits to Lydia and we were able to do that.  We even were able to attend a Hope Basketball game. We are very thankful for all these times. 

As we enter into this Thanksgiving time, we don't want to end this post without letting everyone who reads this blog  how thankful we are for each one of you!  Your prayers,
 kind words, thoughtful meals, rides, phone calls, texts, gifts in a variety of different ways mean the world to us.  

I want to end this blog with a qoute that hangs in our home.  Lydia when entering college wrote a paragraph in her application and a couple of sentences struck Kent and I.  We had it made and put into a frame which now hangs in our home. We often pass by and is a frequent reminder to be thankful.  We are thankful to each one of you for giving to our family and loving on us.  We will forever give back because of what you have given to us.  Thank you! 

... Giving and caring for others doesn't take the most fancy house,best food, or even the neediest of people. God calls us to care for others with what he provides and with a joyful heart.  Lydia DeYoung.

On behalf of the DeYoung 3,  I can not say thank you enough for giving and caring for us.  

--Leah

Treatment 10

Today is Monday following treatment number 10 which occurred on Thursday the 26th.  On Thursday Leah and I were sitting in the waiting room waiting for our turn to be called back for treatment.  I had already had my blood draw and was sipping down my coffee waiting my "turn".  Out walked a family friend of ours.  His wife was at Lemmon Holton for infusion just not for Cancer.  We chatted with him for several minutes and he indicated where He and his wife were sitting and it seemed like he pointed in the direction of the Blue pod.  Leah said to me "Wouldn't it be interesting if we ended up in the pod next to them?"  A few moments later we were called back and were taken back to the Blue pod.  I removed my shoes and sweatshirt and stepped on the scale to get the dreadded weight.  As I'm slipping on my shoes we are directed back to the cubicle we were assigned to.  Wouldn't you know it we were seated right next to the Cubicle our friends were seated in.  We talked for another minute and even grabbed a photo together.

We settled in for the long day of treatement I put my headphones in and checked out for most of the day.  I managed to wake up for a small meal and then snoozed for the remainder of my treatment.  After getting my pump and getting home I slept most of the rest of Thursday, most of Friday and a large chunk of Saturday to.  Let's just say I did more sleeping than anything else for a large part of the weekend.

Sunday we woke up and caught church online and I was awake most of the day which is largley unusual for any of the past treatments.  I had my Ativan an  anti-nausea med through my last dose Sunday night.  Today I began the day with my other anti-nausea med and a small amount of food.  I got ready and started my day at work.  I had more energy than I normally do on a Monday and ate a fairly normal schedule which was not every hour as it typically is on a Monday.

I'm thankful to be mostly back to "normal" a day or two earlier than normal.  While I'm not all the way back to normal I'm fairly close and thankful for the speedy recovery.  Thank you to everyone who prays, sends cards, encourages here or via another method.  You'll never know exactly how much it means to me as I continue to go through this journey.  For now I get enjoy the next 10 days before Number 11.

Pray!!

Today is Tuesday following my Chemo number 9.  My stomach is still not 100% back to normal but hopefully will return to normal tomorrow.  Compared to my first treatment this treatment was by far my worst.  Leah did an accurate job of describing how the weekend went in the last post. 

Thursday we had the confusion of 12 vs 14 treatments.  Leah called my doctor's office today to check on whether we needed to complete 13 & 14?  When the nurse called back Leah and her had a lengthy conversation about plenty of things.  Those 2 treatments were only a fraction of what they talked about.  Since I need familiar to keep my anxiety down, the nurse made a note in my chart that we would like to be back in the blue pod.  There are less chairs and less activity and this is where I have been since the begining of my treatments this year.  I will likely have the same nurse I had for treatment number 9.  Per the number of treatments, Leah was told I currently have 28 on the schedule so I will continue to see a few more than I currently am on.  The real truth is I will have 12 treatments then I will have a CT scan.  My doctor will present my scan results to the tumor board to see about surgery.  Otherwise we would have to decide between our normal treatments and Maintenance Chemo.

I'll be honest the thought of indefinite chemo frightens me.  I badly want the tumor Surgically removed.  I don't want chemo long term.  10 years ago Leah continued to remind me to take 5 minutes at a time!  I'm to that point again.  

All I ask is for Prayer for surgery to be a reality.  In the mean time I'm going to be watching the clock for 5 minute blocks.

~Kent

A day in the pod.

I am not one to write a post with a lot of information and not much story. Buckle up, and hear the day and tale of Kent. Today, we started the day off leaving the house at 8:20 am. This was and would be the last of anything nornal in the day beside our ride home. We arrived at Cancer and Hematalogy roughly a bit before 9. We registered and it could have been a brief glimpse into our very busy and unnormal day. Kent then had labs with a tech unfamilar to him but kind and caring. We then waited to be called back to his Doctor appointment. We were greated by Kent's nurse who took us back and we then again waited for our Doc and he had his training attending resident with him. In this appointment I invite you in to the discussion and plan as of now as we move forward into the next phase of the cancer journey. Kent comes prepared to every appointment with questions and we rapid fired them at him and he answered all of them but some left us a bit nervous as we left the exam room. So here we go as we know now..... 1) Kent will continue to 12 treatments. We recieved a schedule which includes 14 treatmemts. (we had left doc) so we will investgate that further as we move into this next week . 2) CT scan after 12 treatments as discussed with Doctor. 3) We asked Doctor about a possible surgery to remove tumor now that we have a confirmed smaller tumor, he confirmed to with our approval he will bring before the board with other doctors. This surgery would be risky as to where the tumor is placed is difficult and could bring further complications. 4) If we get to the point we need to do maintence chemo this is what it would look like for Kent. Kent would begin a regimine of drugs that may be introduced to Kent for the first time as these would hopefully stop from supplying the blood to the tumor. He then would continue to wear a pump home to complete the treatment. We are also unsure if this would be after surgery or if surgery would not be an option. Overall it was a very information heavy appointment. Please pray the cancer miraculously is "eaten" by the chemo! Please pray as we navigate through each step of this. We pray God answers exactly what we need. 

On to treatment for the day. Treatment # 9! 

We left Doc appointment and again waited in the waiting room to be brought back to our "typical" chemo area. We were called back but from a different door than we typically walk though to treatment. Kent and I looked at each other a bit confused but trusting we were taking the senic route to our pod. Nope! We were brought very close to where Kent was getting treatment 11 years ago. We were intoduced to a new nurse. Now we are ok with a new nurse, of course because the care of this cancer center, but we were bummed as you see we were excited to send off our nurse to her Maternity leave as she was to have her third child but 1st girl! One of the sweetest nurses that we were so fortunate to have. Her loving care and Christian walk were evident every time we saw her. We will miss her greatly! We met our nurse today and she was kind and did a great job but we certianly felt the void of our familar caring we recieve. Today we were tucked behind a wall and I was thinking it would be a bit quieter for Kent as there were more pods in this location and easier for Kent to relax. Wow was I wrong. Thursday's Chemo was one of the busiest we had ever experienced. When we returned home both nausea and Vomiting returned after a long deserved nap. I called after hours Doc. (as it was the middle of the night.) They confirmed what we were doing was correct. I was giving the correct meds and alternating them and helping Kent stay as hydrated as possible. They suggested Kent going in for further hydration in the morning to help with his nausea. 

We arrived and Kent recieved one and a half hours of hydration. It is now Friday afternoon and Kent is resting and concentrating on eating and catching up on sleep. He is doing better after receiving Hydration. I thank each one of you for continued prayers for Kent. Thank you to each one of you for praying for our entire Breen, Chapman and De Young families. Your prayers and love mean so much to all of us. ~Leah

No words

 Friday, September 22, 2023 changed our lives forever. 

Our entire Breen family had come on out to see Jake (our nephew and cousin) play football. We often all  come to cheer him on.  It's not every game we are all present but this one we were. Some had to leave a bit early due to kid's bedtimes but what a blessing we were there at somepoint in that evening.

 Jake  was making a tackle when he was hit and knocked unconsious.  He was taken by Ambulence to Helen DeVos Children's Hospital.  Discharged later that evening with a severe concussion. Please fast forward with me to Wednesday night, September 27th  as Jake was home when he went into cardiac arrest. given CPR, and given a chance at life by many medical personal when and as he was rushed to Helen DeVos Children's Hospital again.  I encourage all of you to follow my sister Rachel Chapman's FB post as she does a wonderful job posting exactly what has developed since then.  Jake was taken into the ICU where he remains in a medical coma. This is so that he has the best possible chance to quietly recover. There are many ways that he has gained improvement but there are many hills that Jake has to climb yet.  Please pray as this week jake will undergo a few medical tests and procedures. 

I would like to personally thank every school, church, small group, sports team, friend connected on and off facebook, every family member near and far for your support, love and kindness. Mostly we thank you for your many words of encouagement and prayers.  We certianly have felt the prayers and ask you to keep praying. Jake's lungs still need healing and we pray he will be able to be restored to full capacity. 

Thank you to all of you! 

September 28th Kent had Chemo number 8! He is scheduled for 10 Chemo treatments as it appears in our schedule on care space.  He has Chemo number 9 on Oct 12th.  He will also have a Doctor appointment on Oct. 12 prior to his treatment.  Kent has been thinking up of a number of questions which lead to what's next? Do we do surgery, more chemo, scans, or something else we don't know.  We hope to fill you in on what that happens in that apointment then. Then his last scheduled chemo at this time is Oct 26th.  that day should be just chemo as far as we are aware.  

Many have been asking what we have found out about the size of Kent's tumor?  What the mm size did turn out to be was Kent's original  size of the tumor was 54mm by 53 mm.  After 6 treatments Kent recieved a scan to see if in fact it was getting smaller in size.  The scan showed it had came back 58 mm by 40mm.  We then questioned just as much as the NP if that infact was a  correct measurment.  It was later explained to Kent that it was true and measured correctly.  So let me explain it this way.... If you would take a potato and slice it, and measure that potato from end to end only skipping one slice that is how they measured the tumor originally. When we meet with Kent's oncoligist we will also ask a few questions on this as well. 

Kent over all is tolerating treatments as well as he can.  This past treatment I did notice more tiredness, a bit more fogginess as I had to repeat myself more, he also discovered his tastebuds have changed.  These are all to be expected we just never know when they happen.  

We now as for prayers for Kent. pray that whatever the Doctor's plans are that Kent will not be anxious about it and that he too will be able to have the best treatment plan moving forward. 

On behalf of the entire Breen, Chapman and DeYoung family we thank you from the bottom of our hearts! We love you all and thank you for your continued prayers! 

~Leah

"Thank You Lord!"

Pardon me for bringing you into my 3's preschool circle time for a short bit.  A song we sing often and is fun because of the motions is, "Thank You Lord."  "Let everything that has breath, say thank you Lord!"  As it goes through the verses of the song it mentions the animals that say,  "Thank you Lord!" 

Often around chemo treatment Kent has to take deep breaths to get though moments that are tougher to get through.  You can hear me say, "Take deep breaths."  This past treatment has taken a bit longer for him to get through and has taken many deep breaths too.  Kent surely amazes me as he rallies through even if he doesn't feel like it.  "Thank You Lord!" 

As many know Kent works from home 100%.  Tonight I had a Preschool/ lower elementary event at a local farm.  Kent and I often go, see a few preschoolers and visit with those from school.  Coming off treatment I was unsure if he would be up for going. I encouraged him as breaths of fresh air would be great and a little walk around the farm builds strength too.  Who could resist a pumpkin donut and cider also right?  "Thank You Lord!" 

Kent and I have been asked several times, how are things going since last treatment?  We met with the NP on Sept 14th prior to treatment number 7.  She had a lot of positive things to say to us. One thing she did mention after Kent's scan was reviewed by radiology, was that she questioned what she saw on the scan.  As many of you heard and read in our last blog post, we shared that the numbers decreased in the size of the tumor which we say, "Thank You Lord"!  She was curious as were we on why it increased on one side so drastically and decreased on the other side.  After a conversation with her she was going to talk to our physician who can read scans (which not all physicians can).  He too works with clinical trials for others and can read scans well.  Soon we should get another read on what the scan really reveals from him. In which then they will need to correct the scan readings for  Kent's chart.   Again we say "Thank You Lord" for NP's and Physician's who look out for Kent's health. (please stay tuned as we will update if there is a change) 

So as I close this blog update, I again bring you back into my preschool classroom.  We start each day singing, "This is the day." "This is the day that the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it."   We are thankful for every breath and we say "Thank you Lord!" 

~Leah

Bigger isn't always better.

 Last Thursday I had a CT scan of abdomen and pelvis.  The scan shows the difference in tumor sizing between my Pet scan in June and the scan I recently had this past week.  While I was hoping and praying for a miracle that the cancer would be gone. For some reason God chose not to answer that prayer how I ( and many others) wanted.  

This is not bad news however.  Realize this post is a little premature.  I recieved results today however today when my chart notified us ,but we have not had the opportunity to have an appointment with a Doc or equivalent yet.  That meeting will likely happen this Thursday prior to treatment.  

All that being said I got an email late this afternoon after Leah was home from work.  I told her  to come into my home office so I could read through the results out loud.  Leah is a visual and Auditory person so I had to draw a picture of what it was back in June and what is now.  I'll include a screenshot of that drawing in this post.

Cancer was present in 2 places. 
Obviously there is a mass around the Portal Vein but there is also cancer along the suture line of my Liver where the Right Lobectomy was performed.  The cancer along the suture line reduced from 35 mm to 32 mm.  The mass  itself around the portal vein was originally 54 mm x 53 mm the current size  is 58 mm x 40 mm.  While this isn't movement on a grand scale the fact is the cancer is shrinking.  Beyond that simple fact you would have to read the images.  I can read my CT 's fairly well after all the years of practice.  I have never been able to look at an image and understand exactly what I'm looking at.

So until my NP appointment on Thursday this all the information I have.  While I'm a little disappointed that it's not gone I'm at least happy it's shrinking.

prayer appreciated for the Next treatment and to not have the typical associated nausea

~Kent

Miracles!

Today is Wednesday September 6.  Since May I have completed 6 chemo treatments with the goal of "shrinking the tumor".  Tomorrow morning I have a CT scan which will "show" what has been happening.  I am eager, nervous, anxious for this test to take place.  It gives a more complete picture and roadmap of what the current state is and what the future looks like for treatment options for me.

If you read through the Bible you see several miracles happen, blind people see, lame people walk, dead people raised to life.  I also believe that miracles still happen today.  If my God can make a blind person see he can  surely cause cancer to disappear!  Not for my benefit (although if I'm honest that would be nice) but to show the power my God has.  My hope and prayer is when they take the scan tomorrow that they find no tumor and no cancer along the Liver!

Of course the tech isn't allowed to share findings so the results will be discussed with my Oncologist on the 14th right before my 7th treatment.

Prayers surrounding the scan and results are apprreciated.

~Kent

Chemo Sucks!

11 Years ago I got a card that said "Chemo sucks"  On the inside of the card it said "but if the Chemo sucks out the cancer then Yay chemo".  This is not exactly how I feel.  I plain struggle with going through Chemo and have Nausea sometimes before, during, and after

Thursday was chemo day and I thought everything was fine especially since I saw my nurse.  We talked with her but shortly after my port was accessed and saline was running I had to go to the bathroom,  I got so nauseated in the bathroom I lost my lunch.  Or at least a little bit of lunch.  I notified Leah when I returned back to the pod.  She notified the nurse shortly after. We talked to her briefly and her concern was whether I had been given my Ativan on board,  which I had taken shortly before our conversation.

Each and every time I went to the bathroom I felt Nausea.  Often Anticipatory Nausea.  Mind over matter they say but my mind is pretty isnistent it knows what is going on in the future.

Today is Saturday.  I got my pump disconnected which seemed to go ok.  I came home and had a small amout to eat and then I watched the first half of the U of M football game.  At that point tired rolled in heavy and I slept for several hours.  When I woke it was nearly 6 p,m, and I went to the bathroom then went to sit on the deck.  Leah had invited my mom to stay for dinner and she had wonderfully made and took over peach cobbler,   When she arrive we had a conversation as to where the meal should take place.  The kitchen table was the consensus.  I finished putting my mayo in my chicken salad and had 2 bites and hit a wall.  I stopped and decided I needed Ativan. We were about 12 hours out from my last dose.  I got that on baord and then I laid down on the couch for a while.  

When Leah and my Mom finished eating they both came in the living room.  By that point I felt I could handle some peach cobbler and ice cream.  I had one serving and about 20 minutes later had another serving. We both were very thankful for peach cobbler as it is one thing that if cold goes down easy and I like.

For the rest of tonight it will be trying to figure out what my body needs.  Meds or food and how much if any.

Prayers for Nasuea to subside.

~Kent

A note from Leah.... Kent is tired of chemo, exhaustion has settled in, and he has tried to be the most upbeat he can be, but has hit a wall. He has a hard time letting anyone see how worn he is.  I ask... please pray for him.  I am thankful for his good days but on the not so good days I am thankful he lets his tears show so I know that he is struggling.  For someone with cancer who is an introvert he shares little of what he feels and for his extrovert wife its hard to "read."  I ask for prayers for Kent to be able to tell me how he is and feels!  One more request, please pray for his Sept. 7 Cat scan and the best results possible! 

Each Breath.

Having a terminal disase causes you come to grips with the terminal side of the disease.  Before I continue I'd like you to do a little excercise.  Hold your breath as long as you are able.  When you are no longer  to hold your breath, consiously think about that next breath.  One day each and every one of us will stop breathing.  One thing having Cancer brings to my mind is the breathing I'm able to do each and every day.   

During my inital cancer journey in 2012 this was a steady drumbeat in my thoughts.  As years passed further away from my treatments this thought faded to where most days I thought about what "normal" people think about during daily living.  Breathing was unfortunately not in that list.  

Since this past May these thoughts of daily breathing have returned.  It is something I wish to make a more regular focus.  Recently I heard a new song on the radio titled "Thank God" by Stars Go Dim (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Htr4usQX3E ).  A phrase is the chorus says "Thank God for every single breath inside" this perked up my ears.  This song realy puts focus on having so much to be thankful for even during all our circumstances.

So remember to be thankful for each breath you take as it is a gift from God.

~Kent

 p.s. Chemo number 6 happens Thursday Aug 31st.  Please pray for reduced or no anticipatory nausea.

Team De Young

Roughly 19 years ago the De Young two became the De Young three.  We then became team DeYoung.  When you are a family of three you do everything together.  We rarely did anything without Lydia.  She often went to dinner with us, grocery store with us, church with us etc. 

This Summer has been a bit different. Lydia has been at Camp Geneva all summer long.  She would come home on weekends to see Kent and myself and Me or my Mom would do her laundy. Most importantly she wanted to see her Dad. Today was her last day, as of 10 am she said good bye to her campers and Camp Geneva. Lydia throughly enjoyed every moment at Camp Geneva and was very sad to leave camp life behind and will be saying hello to College life as an RA very soon! 

A bit of about Team Lydia. Yesterday, Lydia's good friend and family helped us move Lydia into college. Lydia was finishing camp and unable to move herself this year. As she was to arrive early due to training for becoming an RA. Wednesday night my brother and I, loaded up things here into Kent's car. Kent and I drove from our home and dropped Lydia's college items off at her friend house, in which they generously offered to tackle the 3 flights of Dykstra Hall for us and then move their own daughter in a few short days later to Gilmore hall both located at Hope. What blessing it is to have friends and family to walk along side Team De Young.  Lydia will welcome freshman girls for their first year of dorm living on the Aug. 25th. Lydia will offically start College August 29th. We could not be more proud of her leadership this year at Hope! 

Team Kent....Lets take a bit to share what has been happening.  Last we shared with you that in a Doc appointment we were told we were going to take 6 treatments (the 6th heppneing Aug 31) and then get a scan.  The scan has been set for September 7 at 9:15 am and then as we move into the follwing week , September 14.  We will again have another Doctor Appointment to share the results of the scan and then move right into treatment number 7 from the scan appointment.  Please pray right along with me for awsome results in the scan so we can have a treatment without the heavyiness of bad news from the scan.  

Today is Friday, a day following the 5th treatment.  In the fifth treatment itself Kent had a lot of Anticipatory Nausea.  We try very hard to stay on top of this but it does become difficult when he would like to not take medicine until he has conversed with those who need to ask medical advice.  Today Kent has done great.  He has slept less, conversed with several people, gotten around the house with very little assistance and ate quite a bit.  We are thankful for this. From Team Kent he wishes to thank everyone for your loving prayers and care! 

Now for Team Leah.  Not a ton to report on me.  I have taken my summer to be in Kent's words Their  Cheerleader! I have no problem taking on that role.  I have taken much of my summer being at home supporting Kent in anyway he needs.  When you have Cancer many routine things that are normal day routine become very difficult.  I have been very thankful it has been over the summer when I have a time away from school.  As I move into a fall schedule I will become a little less avalible but a phone call away.  I will be starting aiding in JCS preschool program again in the middle of September along with babysitting now two afternoons a week for my nephew.  Any additional time I will be found doing a bunch of College laundry or being by Kent's side for anything medically he would need.  

We all  together like many other families support each other and I am so thankful I get to be part of it! 

So as we are done with Chemo 5 and on to Chemo 6 we ask your our friends and family to pray for all of us even though apart we will still be team De Young strong! 

~Leah

 

Best Medicine

Today is Thursday one week post chemo.  Normally they schedule doctors appointments on chemo day but since my chemo got bumped out one week, my doctor's appointment with my Oncologist was today.  We talked about how treatments have been going since we started.  He talked about how we reduced the chemo by 20 percent and added the Emend.  I told him that for the most part I have been tolerating the treatments since that point.  We questioned the use of Ativan during treatment and he confirmed what we were doing was perfectly fine to do during a treatment weekend.  Finally he brought up the schedule and stated we would do a scan after 6 treaments.  I just completed number 4 last week so in roughly one month I will have had 6 treaments.  I will then have a CT scan to compare to the Pet scan I had before we started chemo.  I will then have an appointment with him on September 14 to go over the results of the scan followed by treatment number 7.  This was all good news for me to get.  

This is only a small slice of the story however to effectively tell the rest we have to rewind to my first office visit with an Oncologist following my hospital stay back in May.  That day as well as other NP and Doc visits you are given a clipboard and paperwork to fill out which talks about symptoms and medications.  I filled out the paperwork and waited for my name to be called.  The person who called my name that day was responsible for taking my paperwork, temperature, and blood pressure.  That particular day (as most of them seeing a Doc) my bp was unusually high.  What followed was a discourse between this person and me about how my high bp was not my fault and rather it was his since he was wearing scrubs.  White coat syndrome is a real thing and in my case it is not restricted to actual white coats.  Scrubs are included in that too.  His response to me was that it was not him.  The next time he saw me he would wear his Shark Bathing Suit instead so my bp would be "normal".  I fully anticipated he was all talk and no game.  Since I treat stress with humor I was willing to play along so I told him I was planning on it.   

When you get chemo you wait in the same waiting room as when you get called back to the doctor.  Over the last 4 treatments I have seen this individual plenty of times.  Each time he looked at me and said,"he forgot."  Every time he claimed he "forgot"  my response would be, "next time."  Most recently his comebck was, "I'll put them in my backpack so I wouldn't forget".

Today I registered, got my clipboard with paperwork and waited for my name to be called.  The title decribes what happened next.  Who else but this same person called me back for the Doctor.  Leah and I were facing the opposite direction in the waiting room.  When we stood up and turned around to walk toward him I saw him standing there in scrubs with his Shark printed swimsuit over top.  Leah and I started laughing and did plenty of it.  Leah said to me, ( after he left the exam room) "it was good to see you laugh."  It really is the best medicine!  There is not as much laughter in our house since May.  I wish I had a photo but to spare more embarrassment for all no photo was taken. The best I can do is include a picture of a suit that looks similar to what he was wearing over his royal blue scrubs. I'm glad he stood up to his end of the bargain even though I thought it would never happen.  Laughter is in fact the best medicine.

~Kent

Hungry Hungry.....

I need to begin this post by extending a huge "Thank You" to everyone whether you provided a ride, or food or did some work for us or sent a card or letter or commented on the blog or simply prayed for our family.  Your help, encouragement and prayers have been much appreciated and needed at times. So again "Thank You"!

Today is Tuesday 6 days post chemo.  Tuesday has typically been my turn around day however today felt a little different.  One thing Chemo does to me is creates a large dose of nausea.  In chemo I get a med that pretty much masks the nausea through Sunday. Beginning Monday and after it's a balance of anti nausea meds and food.  Food tends to make my stomach feel better and since meds are once every 8 hours i'm eating at minimum every hour of the day.  I wasn't even finished with dinner tonight and Leah asked when I would need food next.  That ended up being a short 45 minutes before the tummy became rumbly.  I don't like eating constantly and so I am eagerly looking forward to enjoying 2 or even 3 meals a day instead of roughly 20.  

Normally it would be another 9 days before going back to Lemmen Holton. Since my chemo got pushed back a week early on in the process of chemos my doc appointments stayed in the same time slot.  It is very difficult to reschedule appoints with doctors, especially my doctor who practices 1 day and cancer clinical trails every other day.  This means Thursday I see my Oncologist for the first time since the very beginning of my journey.  The main question I have is when I will recieve my next scan. During my previous cancer journey, they would do a scan after treatment number 6 which will be just 2 treatments from now.  I would rather know what the mass is doing intead of just blasting it with chemo and then guessing what's going on.

So until Thursday....

~Kent

Comfort in the familiar!

Chemo number 4 in the books! 

Our ride rolled up at 9:20 am.  Kent quickly finished up putting his numbing cream on , I grabbed all our belongings and loaded them in our ride and we strolled on our way to Lemmon Holton Cancer Center.

 Blood Draw was scheduled for 10 am.  We often joke if everything would move as fast as the phlebomotist did we would be all set.  Kent was called back soon after getting registered, He was getting his blood taken and I finished filling out the routine paper work and then the wait again began.  We were not seeing the doctor today so we waited for the nurse to call us back to get the results of the bloodwork, and see if we were a go for chemo.  As we walked back I glanced behind the chemo nurses glass window by their desk and did not see our regular chemo nurse . ( as we later found out due to bereavement) I often give a hand wave as we get seated in our pod. 

We got situated after a short visit to the scale, BP check and temp check.  As we were waiting I told Kent I did not see our chemo nurse.  I saw disappointment on his face, but reassured him we would be well taken care of.  Our nurse filling in was very nice.  She shared with us the labs looked great. We indeed were all set to start chemo.  When Kent starts the Chemo process he always starts with a liter of Saline.  When he had the first chemo treatment 3 chemo's ago,  he became so dehydrated that now we regularly hydrate him before each chemo.  Kent quickly fell asleep and as they started the process of the chemo drugs.  I verified his name and birthdate and chemo idenification instead of him to let him get his rest.  This too is routine as to make sure he is getting the correct meds.  We were in our chemo pod area for roughly 5.5 hrs. 

 

When you are in the chemo pods, faces of people often become familar like nurses and patients and feel like a place where you can be yourself.  The person across from us was getting treatments, blood draws and EKGs. (behind a prvacy curtian.)  but you begin to feel for all those around you. You all are feeling the same way. This is a place you begin to feel and care for and idenify with all those around you.  

It is Friday, today we woke up early at 6 am and I  grabbed Kent's med and a little food to go with it. He took it and then we fell back asleep for awhile.   When we got up we then got ready for the day, I  grabbed his next set of meds and next thing to eat.  Kent stayed up for a bit , wrote Lydia an email and now is asleep again.  Kent looks pretty good this round.  Seems not to be as low energy. Maybe it was all the sleep this morning. (Side note - When on Chemo, Kent sleeps. It is the best way for him to cope with nausea and helps in the healing process for him)

Some have asked how we are doing so I will take a quick moment to share. 

 Kent on off weeks does very well.  He can not do all what he did before but close.  Long walks and trips up and down stairs tire him easily.  Mentally on the day before chemo I can see things change for him .  His anxiety becomes a bit more noticable and he tends to retreat to the foods he loves to eat as he won't have them for a bit.

 As for myself, I have my moments, Chemo weeks and few days leading to it , I am busy changing bedding, finishing laundry, packing up the house, laying out everything to have it avaliable for Kent as he needs it.  being prepared for me is huge! It's how I function.   I emotionally struggle as I see Kent go from able bodied to needing my hand to steady his every trip somewhere.  I'm tired and rest when he does.  I too am very thankful for people steadily stand by us and are always there.  

As we finish out Summer I ask for prayer as I have been home every day to help Kent and caring for him when he has needed it.  I will now divide my time between babysitting an adorable nephew during the school year and beautiful niece on off school days, school in the mornings as I teach/aide  and caring for Kent.  This is all a bit overwheming to me as I feel very conflicted and stressed to where I should be and when. It will take a bit of planning on my part I guess! 

Pray for Kent.  He is tired of it. Going from feeling good to bad and all over again gets old quick.  Giving up vacation time and investing in family time to sit in a chemo chair is hard.  He misses Lydia daily. Our bubbly blue eyed girl lights up our house and is a joy to have around for him.  

Later this month Aug. 17 ( Kent's next chemo day)  and Aug 18 Lydia will be moving from Camp Geneva as Counselor to her Fall Role at Hope College . This  will be her next home away from home with a new role of one of many  R.A.'s  of Dykstra Hall and freshmen girls as she begins her new  sophmore year.  We ask for many prayers for her as she is a little uneasy to many circumstances that may come across her path. 

So as Summer winds down and fall schedules fill our days please pray for us as we balence everything.  each one of the three of us have different things going on but we all are thankful for the same thing, everyone of you. No matter how we know you.  We could not do life without you.  If I start to list everyone  I might leave people out .  We thank you all for your love and care and support and mostly for your prayers as we could not do this walk without  you and the love of our Heavenly Father!  

Leah 

Hair today Gone tomorrow.

Today is Friday, just under a week until my 4th chemo treatment.  For the last couple treatments Tuesday seems to be my turn around day.  I manage to maintain a relatively normal life from Tuesday through Wednesday (chemo eve).  Unfortunately chemo changes things for not only me but my family as well.  For the last several years we went on vacation camping at CranHill Ranch.  The first year we went we happened to land on the triathalon week.  We kept going the same week each and every year since.  We planned to go again this year which would be this coming week, however having a chemo treatment in the middle of that week is not an option.  So we regretfully cancelled our vacation this summer.  

There are a host of things my particular flavor of chemo changes.  One of the side effects of the chemo is hair thinning.  I noticed this durinig my treatments 10 years ago and have notice more progression in the last couple of treatments.  Leah and I have had a few discussions about my hair past, present and future.  I feel my hat collection may come in handy in the future.

Overall I have been feeling and doing pretty well in my personal and work life.  The mode of life is to live as normal as possible from now through Wednesday.  That day shifts to mentally and physically preparing for Chemo and the days that follow.

~Kent

40 hours.

Today is Friday, the day after my chemo infusion.  Yesterday went as well as could and I recieved a lot of the aswers I asked in the NP appointment. First off since my colonoscopy is a recheck I was requested to bump this out aways.  If there is something in the Colon we are attcking it with chemo anyway and we'll see what we can see in the CT scan in which  there was nothing shown in the first CT  scan.  Since I've had 2 treatments and 2 UTI's the NP decidced it was best to put me on a low dose of the antibiotic that I had last been on to take the duratuion of my treatment schedule.  We'll take it through the next week and if no UTI's  show up we'll get refills of that med.  If however a UTI still shows up they will have me see a urologist to see if there are other meds which are "Safe" to take while on chemo meds.  

Another question I brought up with the NP is that I'm scheduled for 12 weeks of treatment.  I often have treatment along with my off week being a meeting with my Doc or with his NP.  They said this is normal and that a scan might happen in the middle but will be after a Doctor appointment.  They said the can move or cancel treatments as needed but this is my schedule.  As you all  are thinking of Holloween , however you do, I'll be reciving my "last" chemo treatment.  

While I'm feeling daunting about an additional 6 weeks in the Blue Pod.  I also get a pump to take home which delivers 5FU  (another chemo) from Thursday  to Saturday after all my other pre meds and chemo meds are complete.  Every med runs for a specific time. When in the pod another appropriate question for the med they have given me  to take home was ,"How long does this run?"  I asked my Chemo nurse, as  they were beginning to hook up my pump. The answer that she returned was "40 hours"!  The first thing that zipped through my head is that is a work week.  40 hours to me was again daunting.  

This meeting brought a lot of expected answers and some not so expected.  I'm anxious about the number of treatments and the amount of time on the pump.  Prayers are appreciated for my anxiety, also quicker energy bounceback, also that the Chemo is effective in shrinking the mass.

~Kent

6 of one, a Half dozen of the other

Tonight is Tuesday July 18.  The last post was last week Tuesday and the last week has overall been a really good week.  Saturday we celebrated Lydia's 19th birthday!  We had lunch with her after her cabin dismissal and meetings at Camp Geneva.  What followed was a great dinner, dessert, and presents for her.  Sunday we went to church and had lunch together with family and spent the early afternoon with Lydia before she needed to head back to camp.  We brought her back around 5:00 p.m. at which point I was tired.  By now you are asking how someone can be tired at 5 p.m.  This past week there was one occasion in particular I was reminded how chemo steals your energy.  In preparing for the party on Friday I made a couple trips down and up the stairs.  It was the second trip up I could not make it to the top without "resting".  This really worried Leah and I can understand why.  My body basically shut down, partly due to how much I had done earlier that day but also thinking I had "normal" energy.  

Tuesday and Wednesday begin the laborious process of mentally going through all the details of what Thursday looks like.  Even down to appointment times and who we see and what question we need answered before, during, or after my chemo treatment.  Wednesday evening we get the house set as someone cleans on Thursday.  Another activity that happens Wednesday is packing.  Most people pack for a vacation but every other week we pack for a day in the chemo pod.  Our packing is very calculated which icnlude blankets, food and drink, as well as phones and the computer and headphones for all the devices.  Then it's planning my clothes for 3 reason.  First its feels like 40 degrees in the rooms where the chemo pods are and secondly, I need to dress so the chemo tubing can go through a button up shirt  and lastly,  I dress in such a manner I can shed things to bring the scale down to a relatively normal weight.  That fact is mainly because chemo is normally based on your weight and since my belt, shoes, watch and the like don't get any chemo....

This Thursday will be my third chemo treatment.  Normally the process goes like a scan then 6 treatments then repeat the scan and decide if you can involve surgeons.  So this typically would be half way through my first round of treatments.  However when I looked online at the schedule, my chemo treatments continue all the way through the end of October.  That was a bit daunting to think about with no break other than every other week.  So get ready NP.  I've got questions and somebody has answers.  I have 20 - 30 minutes to lay out all my questions and get a set of satisfactory responses.

For the rest of this week and weekend I'd request prayer for the following.  Please pray for me as I get quite anxious as we get close to and into Thursday.  For another treatment with minimal side effects.  For answers on how to avoid another UTI.  Also for answers on all the other questions I have for the NP.  I imagine another post will be written toward the end of the week or early in the weekend.

~Kent

3 letters that came back.

Today is Tuesday, July 11, 2023,  4 days post Chemo.  Kent's strong nausea med that is given through IV has now worn off.  It has been a delicate balence between all of the medications he now takes orally to navigate the nausea.  He often wonders... is the nausea feeling, stomach pain, chemo unsettling my stomach, do I need food or nausea medication.  This is harder for him to navigate than you think.  Kent is a real trooper.  I try to help him understand what he needs but its not my stomach.

Today, he woke up and took his medication at roughly 6:30 am.  He had a little food and then fell back asleep until he needed to shower before his 8:30 meeting.  Now he has always worked at home so this is all doeable.  I bring him all his next set on medications roughly at 9 ish.  He walked back out to me today roughly at 10:30 am and said, "Today something doesn't feel right."  I said, "Can you explain it to me?"  He told me, "I'm warm, and I feel like I have another UTI!" I went to grab  the thermometer.  We took Kent's temp and it was 100.0.  Now the magic number to call his Doctor office is 100.4 however we made the decsion after consulting my mom to tell her what was going on, to go ahead and make the call.  Kent called, and about half hour later we hear back from them that we should come in.  My Mom was in Holland and she drove back to Hudsonville and then us to Lemmen Holton.  A true life saver, for a daughter who is scared to drive and a son in law who can't drive. He needed to get a blood test and Urine test once again.  Later we expected a call from a nurse.  The call came back at roughly 12:30 pm and did in fact confirm an UTI.   So now our minds question why did this 3 letter word come back? What is happening with his chemo regimine that we are 2 chemo cycles both ending with an UTI?  We are not sure of what is the cause.  He once again is on an antibiotic.  This time 3 times a day.  Why not one more medication to add to my memory to give to him! We are hoping that he will regain strength after being on the Antibiotic.

On July 20, which will be his next Chemo day,  we will also be meeting with Kent's NP that works alongside his main doctor.  He will first get labs that day, meet with the NP and then if the labs reflect good white blood counts he will again recieve his number 3 chemo treatment.  When we meet with the NP, we will have a ton of questions.  Both of us are very familar with this NP as it was Kents old Doctor's NP for a while and my NP for Hematology.  We truly trust her and will lean on her for answers to help us understand. 

So in the mean time what do you ask..... We ask for prayers for Kent's strength to come back.  For him to have normal days, for him to be able to just do daily tasks without being so tired.  

I just want to add a bit of a note on the bottom of this blog.  We could not do this without our Mom's.  They run to get scripts, they grab us food, they stop by with little gifts and they pray non stop! 

Another little note to add...We are so thankful to our daughter! She has been at Camp Geneva all summer.  She works endlessly to lead young girls to have a relationship with Jesus and have a blast at Geneva.  There are fun days and nights filled with games, skits and smores but most importantly I love hearing about each hug she gets at the end of the week.  She comes home on weekends and we love our hugs!  I will never complain about doing her laundry at the end of each week! She has been a true inspiration of strength for her Dad and I love that!  

This week Saturday is her
19th Birthday and we can not wait to celebrate her.  Happy Birthday dear, "Blue Eyes!"  (Papa Breen's nickname for her)  We Love You! 

-Leah

Less is More!

 Hello to all!

 It has not been that long since Kent last posted on the blog, but somehow one day and evening can bring a lot to pass along.

  Kent went in to Lemmon Holton on Wednesday, July 5 and had labs and we met with a nurse and nurse practitioner, due to the small infection that he found prior to getting chemo on Thursday.  The port is access to chemo. If you present chemo into something that all ready was fighting an infection it would  have been another set back for sure.  All that to say Wednesday we already knew that with great labs we were a go for chemo on Thursday!  Kent and I waited quite a while in the waiting room to be called back for chemo.  Wednesday, I could see he was struggling with sitting in a very crowded and loud waiting room with several conversations about cancer and chemo patients of all abilities. On Thursday we choose a spot more secluded near the schedulers and it seemed better for Kent.  Less is more.  

Thursday as we walked back with the nurse that always takes us back Kent was already getting ready to shed as much extras as he could so that when he got on the scale he would weigh less,  I got handed a belt, wallet, watch, sweatshirt, his shoes because less weight means less chemo and more quality of life when Kent gets home.  Less is more! 

Kent and I were placed in our blue chemo pod space.  He sat himself in his chair and got situated. I sat in my chair next to him and then grabbed his med he needed on board before chemo started.  Shortly after we were settled into our spot for the day our awesome nurse came by and said she needed to talk the doc and present what had happed in the last 3 weeks as he was just returning to the US after a couple of weeks.  They reviewed Kent's case and what the NP and Chemo nurse had decided in the absence of  him.  The Doctor decided with how rough things were for Kent that a reduction of 2 of his Chemo drugs would be good for Kent.  He also agreed Less is More.  Let's fight this cancer but give Kent more quality in between treatments,  Less is definitely more.  

I will give a little knowledge on  how this process works as I have had a few questions on what Kent goes though each Thursday he gets chemo.  Kent gets greeted each chemo day by the nurse.  They review what the plan is for that day. It may be less review if he has met with a Doc or NP prior.  They first give him saline and a pre meds which includes roughly 3 medications. Emend, Aloxi, and Dex. These are all some sort of Anti nausea and steroid.  Then they start Avastin which helps block cell growth.  The next step is the Irinotecan, this med is the 1st chemo med that Kent receives. Then Kent is gifted with a pump he wears home with another chemo called 5 FU.  This chemo is administered from Thursday until Saturday Morning when they remove the pump and he then receives a shot at removal time to help boost his Neutrophil count.  Kent and I are always glad our care team knows so much because for us, their care for us and knowing us more is less worry for us.  

Today is Friday..... Last night and today so far has been a huge difference from the last chemo round.  Kent made it home Thursday and he had a great evening which included a small nap, food, and even made the trip into bed vs. sleeping on the couch.  Today he woke up and has had a wonderful morning. He got himself ready with some assistance due to low energy.  His appetite has been good and he is doing very well with a nap and a little Tv and he may even try to watch a training for work.  All things we are so thankful for as 2 weeks ago would not have been possible.  We are thankful for less side effects which has granted Kent More! We could not be more thrilled! 

In my final thoughts I want to reverse my thoughts from my title...... More is less.  We can not say thank you enough.  The more you keep praying the less we worry for a Miracle we keep praying for!  We are so thankful for more prayer warriors. The more you keep praying, I pray the less cancer we find! 

So thank you for the over abundant prayers! We love you all and are thankful for you and our God of Miracles! 

~Leah 

"Prepare for the worst"

There is very little on the physical side to report at this point since last week.  For the most part I've had a very good week with a great appetite and able to continue / finish some of my projects.  Last night I noticed a little spot of infection at the incision site of my port.  I got junk out of that spot and put neosporin on it overnight.  Today it looked much better, yet Leah called the oncology office to report what had happened.  We earned a visit out of it since they wanted to see it and apperently had no way of receiving a photo.  I went in for 2 reasons. First a blood draw to look for a possible infection and second to see a nurse and NP to look at the port incision where the infection had been.  My labs came back a little less shiny than you see your reflection in a mirrior but still shiny enough to say my numbers were all in the normal range.  It's  like saying if your gas tank is at 1/4 full that you're in normal range.  So tomorrow we take our bags like we're staying overnight because we're camping out in the chemo pod for the majority of the day.   

While talking with the NP she said,"Plan for the worst", therefore I was instructed to get one of my anti nausea meds on board prior to treatment tomorrow.  They will pre hydrate tomorrow and will give me emend which is the 48 - 72 hour anti nausea med.  I will stay on one of the two anti nause meds I have at home through Sunday at which that point I can take both of them I have at home.  If this works as expected I will stay ahead of nausea and I will try to stay hydrated. The only thing left for me is the mental part that goes with treatment.  I am currently scheduled for hydration on Monday.  If I get to Sunday/Monday and I feel good enough to keep hydrated on my own I have the option to cancel that appointment.  Obviously prayers are appreciated for calm mind and minimal side effects for this treatment cycle and that the best decisions can be made medically through the course of this and each treatment.

The past treatment was VERY rough on my body and yet through the middle of the roughest feeling I saw Jesus.  By now I've likely piqued your interest.  Leah has been one of the best at taking care of me.  Whether sitting with me no matter how crummy I felt, or just plain being my cheerleader when doing something she though I might never be able to do.  She has been amazing by thinking and being ten steps ahead of me both mentally and physically at most times.  She cared for me as I imagine Jesus would for each and everyone of his followers.  Thank you Leah for showing Jesus both inside and outside the home!

~Kent

Get the party started...

Today is June 29.  Today is exactly 2 weeks after June 15 which was the date of my first Chemo treatment for this occurrence of cancer.  Today after my labs and being weighed I would have normally been marched in and given a "cozy" chair for treament to settle in for the day with a blanket and a strong "cocktail" to go along with it.  However since the last two weeks went so swimmingly well, I was scheduled to see a Nurse Practioner before getting any treatment to talk about changes.  We waited a while in a small room just off the main hall of the blue pod room.  While waiting, my chemo nurse walked by and we chatted with her for a couple minutes about this treament then continued to wait for the NP.  After waiting for what seemed like forever, the NP poked her head in the room and introduced herself and said she was going to talk with my Doctor about my labs and then come back to talk with us.

When the NP came back to the room we began to talk about what my life was like for the last 2 weeks and then quickly shifted to lab result.  I'll spare you with many of the details except for two that are very important.  The white blood cells (WBC) and the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) are two things they watch for to see if they can administer chemo.  Those are your infection fighting cells in your blood.  So if you are sick (UTI) and have been given chemo, those numbers will go down.  WBC should be 4.0 - 11.0, mine was 2.9 today. ANC should be 1.5 - 7.7, mine was 1.0 today.  The NP said I was on the tipping point of getting chemo today and normally with a healthy patient they would give it anyway.  Due to my rough 14 days, and the fact my numbers were both low, and I am recovering from an UTI They chose to not give me chemo today.  My Doctor said they would be doing more damage than help this time and I really needed to build both those numbers back up on my own.

So now what you ask.  We talked a while with the NP and what that all boiled down to is I will get 1 more week to recover from my infection and get stronger without the effects of chemo.  Next Thursday July 6, I will get chemo, Saturday the 8th I will have my pump disconnected and I will also be getting a shot to help boost my white blood cells.  Then I will be scheduled to get hydration on Monday the 10th.  Both the shot and the hydration are to help pick me back up from the effects the chemo has.  The other important thing I haven't mentioned is I will be getting Emend in with my chemo regimen.  This is a drug that is a strong 48 - 72 hour anti nausea med. This med should cover me until Saturday or Sunday in regards to nausea.  These are all good things I heard today.  It seems to me that all these things will help make the treatment more tolerable next week and into the future.

I want to take this moment to say a huge thank you! to everyone for sending a card, commenting on the blog, making a meal, driving one or both of us somewhere, for a thoughtful phone call(s), and for many things not mentioned!  

Today We recieved a card from Lydia "Our best daughter" (her words).  She wrote this card on Monday the day she had her 10 girls arrive in her cabin.  She knew the speed of mail so in the card she said she hoped chemo was going well since she thought we would get it Thursday or Friday.  Perfect timing, something only God could arrange.  Earlier this week I got a call from a Pastor who was at Camp Geneva for another reason,  while on the phone he was bragging on how well Lydia is doing at camp!  That was so great to hear.  Keep it up Lydia!  Keep sharing Jesus with these girls each week all summer.

Prayer requests for continued health in fighting this UTI, for overall strength and for increased WBC and ANC, for limited side effects next week through treatment, and last for mental peace and calm as we approach the beginning of treatment number 2.

~Kent

Weekend trips

For many people summer means vacation or at least weekend trips.  The last two weekends (one physically and the other close enough it should be) I made a trip.  Unfortunately niether one was desired.  I already detailed the one from Thursday the 15th of June.  This past Saturdaythe 24th of June was yet another.  I was doing fairly well I even had a meal out with my family.  I enjoyed the meal but didn't have a huge appettite yet and I was eager to get back home.  Later that night, Leah was near me while talking to me and she felt my face and I was warm.  We thought I should take my tempeture and of course it was high enough it warrented a call into the after hours Oncology doctor line.  The doctor on call suggested we go right to the ER. He was worried that there could be an infection after chemo. We chose Zeeland this time since it's a little less chaotic

We arrived at 10 p.m. I went through a battery of tests including blood tests, urine sample, chest x-ray and a covid related nasal swab.  After 4 hours I was told I had a bladder infection or UTI.  Before we left at 2 AM I recieved my first oral dose of the antibiotic they thought I needed. Leah's mom picked up the med for us Sunday morning and by 11 p,m, Sunday I had my second dose.

Today I had every intention of a normal day at work however my UTI started my day out with other plans.  My UTI Symptoms got worse and I was seeing blood clots in the bowl.

Immediately Leah called the Oncology office.  It wasn't until 2:30 we had actually heard substantial information back from them.  In the mean time I pounded the "clear" liquids.  At 11:00 am I was taking my 3rd dose of the med.  After that med got on board and I got food on board I was feeling much better.  I ended up working most of the rest of the day.

The Oncoligist office after much discussion with those involved in my case decided that I was doing what I needed to be doing and to continue on the current path I was .  The only thing they suggested I hadn't been doing was drinking cranberry juice.  I strated drinking that later this evening.  If by tomorrow I'm still not feeling well they want me to call and come in.  This will mean they will likely push my treatment out a week.  

So until tomorrow....

Please pary for Physical strength and Emotional strength to.  Pray the whenever my next treatment is that I can tolerate it and get back to "normal" quickly

~Kent

I got a letter. Wonder who it's from?

After the last post I felt you all needed an update before we get to "doing this all over again".  Today is Thursday, 1 week from the treatment cycle I had.  Yesterday and today I held food down but the primary side effect of the Chemo drug (diarrhea ) has taken over so my body is desperately trying grab any nutrients from the food as it goes flying by like an energetic 2 year old.

This is a space I try to be honest about what life as a cancer pateint feels like however for most people, until you experience cancer in you family many of the terms like chemo or what it makes you feel like come with a vague understanding.  

When you read the title you may have been wondering the refference.  This is a song which was in Blues Clues that Steve sang when he got mail.  One thing you must understand is we have a service where we see most of our mail prior to it reaching the mailbox.  For someone who likes opening things this creates a little excitement especially if you don't immediately recognize the return address.  One of today's letters was from a friend who is also a cancer survivor.  There is a shared understanding from people (in the club) about what you feel and think about the different facets of cancer.  This particular card (as most are) was full of wonderful sentiments, encouragement and a promise of continued prayer.  I read through this card  several times today and will continue reading it many years into the future.  A similar thing happens for me with the comments on this blog.  I love reading the thoughts, encouragement, and prayers,  Again I read them many years into the future.  This becomes a stamp in time where I can go to look back at God's mighty work.  

To the sender of today's Card. "Thank You so much!"  To the sender of any card I get, Thank you also!  To those who comment on the blog.  Thank you even though it doesn't get mentioned often.

The real story....

Many people give facts on care pages or blogs. Facts of all the medical things that are going on, what doctors have been sharing in all the appointments of what is exactly happening with your loved one who is struggling health wise.  I will share a little of that at the end but what I want to share with you now is the real story that is happening in our home.

Thursday through Tuesday were tough.  Mentally, physically and emotionally.  We started with treatment on Thursday.  Kent had so much going on mentally, physically and emotionally the moment he walks into the Chemo treatment center.   The sights and smells, the dispair and hopelessness, and the shared thoughts of each person you walk past . Those same people who are given a simialar diagnosis as you...Cancer.  Different drugs but same vision a fight to cure this awful disease that destoys their smile and their happy spirit.   

This treatment..... The real story is that we are plain exhusted. Mentally & Emotionally Kent is struggling to make it though each situation that has been presented to him. things like a doc appointment or test. Phsyically Kent has has no strength to even do routine tasks in our home, like to eat, to walk or work.  Thankfully Kent's supervisors have been very supportive and understanding.  To you we are very thankful.

I am trying my hardest to hold it together but seeing Kent go through this and the toll it is taking on him has me in tears often.  There is nothing more that I want to do is to take this all away from him.  Seeing him not be able to do as much he would have done before treatment just breaks my heart.  The real story is he is the person who just does so much for everyone and never says anything he just does it.  The real story we all miss his ability of helping.  We will keep trying to do what we can while he gets stronger.  

The real story now on the Medical update.   I will try to share all of what I know in the best way to Update you, 

Kent is improving daily in strength but he has a long way to go.  His next treament Chemo day is June 29.  We will first meet with a Nurse practioner on that day as our doctor's schedule was full and we were not scheduled for doctor's visit that day.  We will alter the Chemo regimine, that he will have after we meet with the nurse Practioner. They will give him fuilds several days in that week and we will be adding a nuasea med in addition to what they have put in place already.  We will ask MANY questions as we can when we meet so we will have reassurance as we go home we are doing the right things.  

Here are some of the blessing we are so thankful for as we head into Chemo treatments.  We are thankful for our new nurse who is a Christian and shared with us that her Husband is a local pastor in our area.  Her carefully thought out medical care has been so wonderful and the way she treats Kent is so wonderful.  Thankful for a new Doctor that is similar in demeanor to our old doctor and has done a wonderful job caring for Kent's needs.  For an old PA and old Chemo nurses that fill in when our new nurse isn't there.  Familarity when you are going though cancer is calming and much needed in the cancer walk.  

Last but not least today Kent was ordered to have an ultrasound.  He had a PET scan earlier this month and it showed some concern for a nodule on Kents thyroid. Todays results were that it was negitive for any metastatic colon cancer.  

The Real Story is ...... We could not do this fight without all of you praying! We could not do this without all of you standing by us and we could not do this without the Love of our Heavenly Father! 

Continued prayers requested for calm and clear minds.  Also prayers for chemo symptoms to subside (quickly)

~Leah

 

What comes first?.....

Today is my first treatment day after 9 years of being off from treatments.  Last night I spent time getting all our I's dotted and T's crossed in preparation for effectively a 3 day Nap.   Today we got to the cancer treatment center pretty early. I got labs done right away and then was brought back to a new pod for treatment.  First introductions were done and going over case with my nurse followed.  She's nice and I'm pleased how she cares for me and I am sure the relationship will go well to follow.  In the words of a friend, I don't see her taking her broom into work. First item on the business was port access.  I had that placed on May 25 just 3 weeks ago today.  She cleaned it and I kindly told her to give me a warning when pushing the needle.  She said on 3 take a big breath.  She got to three and I didn't have a chance to breath.  That took all my breath away!  It hurt quite a bit.  I know people say your port is your friend.  I still haven't gotten to the point where I feel the same.  Not to long after port was accessed she hung saline and the pushed 2 meds. One was a steroid and another being an anti nausea med.  They ran that through for 25 minutes and then they hooked up my Avastin which is the drug that helps the Chemo be effective in stopping cell growth.  After my 90 minutes here then Chemo (Fol Furi) a common drug when treating Colon Cancer. 

Back to that title.  If you read it the next thought in your mind should be "the Chicken or the Egg".  I'm not referring to Chicken's or Egg's here rather Chemo or Pet Scan results.  My nurse nudged them and said they are not finished with my Pet Scan results yet. ( at that point in me  begining in writing the post.) She said she would check again before the end of treatment to see if they have come in by then.  So obivously Chemo comes first.  Not exactly the order I had planned things out in my mind. Roughly a half hour to forty minutes later I was notified through My Chart of the results of the PET Scan.  So here we go.... Many of my organs are not affected, here is the low down on what was lit on the scan.  In my first battle with cancer it was found in the Liver and Colon.  I had a surgery back then on both Colon and Liver, on the current scan  the resectioned part of the Liver they found at the resection site it showed some growth or it was lit and that is evidence of reacurence.  They feel with the Chemo that I am on that they will be able to attack that.  The second part of the scan showed a few nodules on the Thyroid.  It is a very slim chance that this area could be cancer but it did show concern and so I will be seeking further advice on what we need to do.  On Tuesday, June 20 I will be having an Ultrasound to determine what I need to do to address this.  Then there is the mass that they found below my Liver sitting surrounding the Portal Vein.  As all this is hard to hear, we are hopeful that much of this will shrink with the Current Chemo plan.  

As many of you are aware after Leah's facebook post, we have had quite a few hurdles in this first round of Chemo.  I have had a total of 3 Hydration treatments over the last three days.  I have battled several days of being sick and trying to figure what my body can handle with food and drink so that I do not need to make a return trip to the ER this weekend.  

I can not thank you all enough for your Love and Prayers over my recent diagnosis.   We would love to ask as we antcipate the next Chemo for all your prayers for calm minds, the right way to hydrate before Chemo and that I have very few side effects in the next round.  

I hope all of you have a wonderful Father's Day.  Lydia just had her 1st week of campers at Camp Geneva and I will be seeing her this evening and a bit on Sunday before she retuns for a second week with more wonderful campers who can't wait to meet their new counselor......Lydia! 

~ Kent and Leah too.