Feenstra Family News

Rest in Peace

2010-12-01T08:34:00.000-08:00

Dick Feenstra 1944 - 2010

Long-time Whatcom County resident, Richard (Dick) Feenstra, age 66, sailed into “safe harbor” to meet his Lord and Savior on Thanksgiving morning, November 25, 2010. Born August 3, 1944 in Bolsward, The Netherlands to Peter and Lucille (Roefstra) Feenstra he immigrated with his family to Canada in 1949 and in 1955 they settled in the delta area of Whatcom County. A 1962 Lynden High School graduate, Dick played basketball on the Lynden High School 1961 and 1962 State Championship teams. On January 15, 1966 he married Betty Northrop in Seattle.

Dick & Betty & their three sons commercial fished, primarily in Alaska, for nearly 35 years; and he was extremely proud of “his boys” and their accomplishments in that industry. He & Betty built several fishing vessels, and designed, built and operated an Alaskan charter boat and subsequently built two more. Dick, Betty & Steve were also licensed Captains. Dick also formed Inland Seafoods in Lynden in the early 80’s. Throughout the years, he loved driving, especially the Alaska Highway. A man of faith, Dick fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith.

Dick is survived by his loving wife, Betty of 44 years; their wonderful sons, Steve (Kelly) of Blaine, Hank (Hannah) of Bellingham and Peter (Risa) of Blaine; “Pake’s Treasures” were his seven grandchildren: Sarah, Luke, Sydney; Henry, Hanson; Zoe, Taylor. His beloved mother, Lucille Feenstra-Clark; siblings, his devoted brother Hank and dear sister Jennie (John) DeKubber, all of Custer.

Memorial services are scheduled for Saturday, December 11, 1:00 pm at Sunrise Baptist Church, 2480 W. Badger Rd, Custer WA (98240) with Pastors Phil Stevenson and Jon Aldrich officiating. Memorials are suggested to Sunrise Baptist Church at the above address: "Feenstra Memorial Fund" or to "SCTWC" (Seattle Cancer Treatment & Wellness Center), 900 SW 16th St, Ste 100, Renton WA 98057: "Memorial Gift."

You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online guest book at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Lynden.

Giving Thanks!

2010-11-25T17:37:00.000-08:00

So many thanks today for a life well-lived, well-loved & well-worn! Dick slipped out this morning to meet his Lord; to slip on a better body, free of pain & disease!

Bless you, my sweet prince; you have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith! Perfectly fitting for this Thanksgiving Day, 2010:)

St Jo's Still

2010-11-24T22:38:00.000-08:00

Here in the Medical Care Unit of the hospital, we had a sweet day full of family & loved ones coming to greet & visit & love & hug on Dick!

Wednesday evening: at this writing, Dick is on "Comfort Care."

We covet your prayers for minimal pain, for strength, for peace & for the Lord's perfect will & timing. We are giving TONS of THANKS this Thanksgiving for our wonderful guy!

St Jo's

2010-11-22T22:54:00.000-08:00

Dick has been in St Jo's since Thursday a.m. After all the tests have been done, they have basically ruled out stroke and heart-related issues.

But his bloodwork determined that Dick's calcium levels were too high, and protein too low, among other imbalances, including dehydration. And today they drained fluids from the lining of his lungs. After treating all of the above, he is still very weak.

He is able to continue his cancer treatment here, and the hope is that his tumor(s) will shrink substantially and take the pressure off of his other organs.

His kidneys have taken the hardest hit with the events of the last 2 1/2 years, and we pray they will continue their function without further damage.

We cherish your prayers & concerns during this difficult time. Your cards & calls & e-mails & notes & comments mean so much to us!

ER again + 911

2010-11-18T13:47:00.000-08:00

Please pray for Dick today. We had to call 911 early this morning after he had fallen several times. He's very weak & is struggling with loss of feeling in his right side (leg & arm).

He's at St Jo's for observations & scans & tests today, and possibly will stay overnight. He'll most likely also be having another Paracentesis to remove more fluids from his abdominal cavity, and is scheduled for a PET-Scan tomorrow morning. We are looking forward to answers to these current difficulties.

Thanking you again for your thoughts & prayers & encouragement (and for letting us communicate in this way)!!
Sending our love,
Betty & Dick

Sunday PM, & Monday Update...

2010-11-15T14:47:00.000-08:00

UPDATE, from Sunday afternoon's procedure:
1 - They did complete the "pump" (Paracentesis) of the fluids from his abdominal cavity.
2 - Another 15+ pounds were "sucked out!"
3 - Dick was much relieved, though more "work" may have to be done...
4 - The Chest X-ray revealed that there is fluid in one of his lungs (minimal).
5 - His bloodwork was mostly OK.

UPDATE MONDAY:
We are in Renton today for treatment & met with Dr Chen.
Considering the events in Bham the last 2 weeks...
6 - This current treatment may not be as effective as they had hoped...so...
7 - They have scheduled a PET-Scan for Friday this week in Bham.
8 - His treatment drugs (in Renton) will change after reading the Scan.
9 - He may have to have the lung fluids extracted.
10 - He is still very weak, has lost quite a bit of weight, and has little or no appetite.
11 - And he has a tooth extraction on Friday too...if his counts remain stable.
12 - AND we still covet your prayers...for energy, weight-gain, & stamina!! ;0)

We are so grateful for your calls & cards & encouragement & prayers for us!!
Our partnership with you and our Lord, gives us great HOPE!!!
Praying the Lord will bless you today!
Love, Betty & Dick

Here we go again...

2010-11-14T12:45:00.000-08:00

Back to ER this morning to have his 3rd Paracentesis. He's been so miserable the last couple of days, he had to come in for another "pump"...Soooooo FULL again!!!, breathing has been shallow, he gets minimal food down, and can hardly even get any water down.

They have done a chest x-ray for precaution, also an ultra-sound (for "pre-pump" I guess), and bloodwork. We are awaiting results. Assume they will do the "pump" shortly.

Will try to update if anything other than this procedure happens.

Results

2010-11-09T23:03:00.000-08:00

They pumped another 14# out today!!!

Another Procedure...

2010-11-08T21:53:00.000-08:00

Here we go again...fluids building:( so going in tomorrow @ 9:am for a repeat of the Paracentesis. Praying for relief!

Dick's been very weak & lacking energy these past weeks, little or no appetite, low counts, down on "air," high heart rate...confusing signals!

Scan in a couple of weeks. Praying these treatments have done their job!

Newest Procedure

2010-10-31T22:57:00.000-07:00

Dick's had extreme pain and bloating recently. So Saturday morning, he was scheduled for an "Ultra Sound-Guided Paracentesis" (a procedure to extract pockets of internal fluids). There, in one hour, they removed over 10# of fluids from his abdomen!!!

He is feeling sooooo much better!!! He's still weak and nauseous, and now has new pains from the procedure; but he's experiencing far less pressure and his breathing is easier!

God is so GOOD!!! We thank you for your continued prayers, calls, cards and encouragement!

UPs...&...DOWNs

2010-10-26T22:14:00.000-07:00

Here we are again, boldly asking for your prayers...

It's been a rough couple of weeks here: Dick's blood counts are low, his pulse is high; his blood pressure is low, and his aches are too numerous to mention...his body is crying out for rest & relief & revival!!!

We are still traveling to Renton weekly, but are growing weary :o(
THANK YOU!!! Your prayers are sustaining us!!!!

More Test Results

2010-10-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

Immediately after reading the results of Thursday's CT-Scan, the clinic called with the news: One of Dick's tumors is growing rapidly and swelling (the others are shrinking!?!?!). That is what was causing the intense pain in his back & abdomen these last couple of weeks.

They are checking to see if he can have radiation again. If this tumor is not in the identical spot they radiated before (last fall), they will start a new session a.s.a.p. in Bellingham.

They also discovered that he has Diverticulitis, which is inflamed & infected. He immediately started on antibiotics. So that explains several days of diarrhea & weight loss.

Again, we covet your prayers for some relief from these symptoms. We are so grateful for your prayers & support during these long months.

Half-way...then another scan

2010-10-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

Here we are again...and a bit in a funk!

Half-way through yet another treatment session. Dick's not having a very good time:( Lots of pain this time around, around the area of the "new" tumors...low back. It's difficult to sit or lay comfortably because of it.

Also, his umbilical hernia is giving him a lot of grief:o( So, where his back brace would help his tummy, it kills his back! And nights are the worse, as he tosses & turns & tries different and/or more pain meds.

Please pray for an easing of his pain, and also for the results of his CT-Scan that was done this afternoon. He's getting discouraged so we covet your prayers.

Dick's Test Results

2010-08-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

Dick's PET-scan came back Friday; the small tumor we have been dealing with for the last 16 weeks is "gone." But we were disappointed to learn that there are "new tumors" that have shown up causing much pain and discomfort :(

So he was immediately started on the same German drug that got rid of his original tumors....So here we go again with another 12 week protocol.

We're still trying to process this news; gotta get back into the "fighting mode!" Some days are very long and full of a variety of symptoms, new pain, sleeplessness and anxiety :(

Please pray for peace, wisdom, comfort and stamina for the next 3 months of this treatment. THANK YOU for your prayers and support!!!

LAST TREATMENT!!!

2010-08-18T13:06:00.000-07:00

OK, today is Dick's "last" treatment of this series!!!! HOORAY!!! (For those who have been counting, it's really only his 11th of 12, but he's had a rough couple of weeks, so Dr Chen is canceling tomorrow's infusion.)

Please pray for next Wednesday, when he'll have his PET-CT Scan in Bellingham. Lord-willing, we'll get the results back "STAT" so we can post it here before the end of next week!

Dick's been suffering with bone & muscle pain, indigestion, stomach cramps, back aches, etc., without a clear reason why. So we've been self-diagnosing, and think it was from the "new"pill his heart doc put him on (Crestor) last month. He only took it for one week and stopped, but still has the pain & aggravation lingering. We'll be monitoring the situation for awhile longer WITHOUT taking it.

We'll post scan results a.s.a.p.!!!

Nearing the end of treatment!

2010-08-04T22:57:00.000-07:00

We have been terribly remiss!! Haven't written in far too long!!:(

It's been fairly uneventful these last several months. Dick has been keeping the same schedule, twice a week to Renton, every third week. His last treatment of this series will be the 18th & 19th. He's had intermittent nausea, aches, and some pain during these months.

But we still ride our bikes in town several times @ week; his appetite is still great; he still "water-boards" and soaks his feet in Epsom Salts, uses the goat cream on his feet, and has added magnetic insoles in his shoes; all this to help the Neuropathy in his feet. SOMETHING is working, but which...ALL the above???

By the end of August or the first of September he'll have another scan to see how this regimen has worked. THEN.....Lord knows....

We continue to thank you for your prayers and give God the glory!!! We are so grateful for the progress he is making, the health he is enjoying, and for safety through all of our many drives to and from Renton!!

Stay tuned...we may even have a LIFE after all these many months!!! But we don't quite know what that will look like yet...

Began New Treatment

2010-05-12T09:13:00.000-07:00

After two weeks off, Dick started his new treatment on the 5th. We decided to do the proposed regimen: 2 days a week every 3rd week. So we're scheduled for Wednesdays and Thursdays, into mid-August. Last week we traveled both days. In the future, we may stay down that first night, since the clinic has discounted rooms at a local hotel.

On his first day, after vitals and bloodwork (sometimes up to an hour), they give him fluids & pre-meds (takes the better part of an hour); then he gets Rituxan, which enhances the chemo (about 3 hours), then finally the new drug/chemo, Treanda (only about 1/2 hour). Also, sometime during our visit, his Oncologist and/or Nurse Practitioner comes in for a check & a chat. We arrive @ the clinic in Renton @ 8:45 and leave between 2 and 3:pm.

On his second day, he doesn't have to have the Rituxan, so we're out 2 hours earlier.

During this "off" week, we're dealing with the side-effects. He barely slept for several nights, he still gets bloated on occasion, he still battles the Neuropathy in his feet which effects his walking, his "taster" isn't working 100%, and he get tired quicker. But overall, he is tolerating the new plan fairly well. Luckily, his appetite is still good, so is able to keep his weight at 235#.

He still rides his bike most days; before this treatment began, he was riding from 3 to 10 miles!! Hopefully, as the weather gets nicer, and if he continues to feel up to it, that can continue.

His biggest challenge is still his feet. It is very difficult to walk, so he still uses the wheelchair a great deal. The feeling still comes and goes, but most of his days he has a lot of pain. Periodically he gets a taste of "normal" feeling, which they say is a good sign that the Neuropathy may not be permanent.

At least 3 hours a day are spent working on those feet in an effort to restore and revive his nerve endings. We have socks that shoot electric impulses into his feet and legs, a Chi Machine that oxygenates his blood, a daily Epsom Salts foot bath, we do a Lymphatic Drainage Massage (about 1/2 hour), he "water-boards" daily (hot/cold showers - 3 minutes/1 minute), applies a goat milk/MSM cream to his feet...AND he takes a potpourri of natural supplements plus one helpful drug.

He also has Reflexology done to his feet once a week, by Prudence, our neighbor. She is a young gal who grew up in a commune, but broke out. Her story was featured on all the National news outlets, CNN, FOX, NATGEO, etc. During her years there, she learned so much about natural remedies. She has helped Dick with many of his side-effects, and also helped him get over the "Swine Flu" in just 2 days:) So far, everything she has recommended has worked...ALL natural. *She and Dick are currently working on a cure for Cancer!!!* They're close...

He also tries to spend 2 to 3 hours a day writing about his long-going battle with cancer and his 40 years of other life-threatening experiences during his commercial fishing years and other risky endeavors. He also writes about the many historical events in Alaska that we have been a part of, and the many real-life characters we have met in our travels.

We are also helping a reporter from a newspaper in Whitehorse, Yukon Territories, on a story he's working on that we were involved with.

This program with 2 weeks "off" sounds great! We pray there will be many days that we can do "normal" activities and opportunities to get out and about:) Spring is an exceptionally bad time for both of us when we ride our bikes down to the waterfront and see the guys getting ready to leave for Alaska...I do believe the "call of the wild" beckons!!!

We are grateful for the wheelchair and the bike, which keeps him very mobile; and for his writing which keeps his mind nimble! We praise the Lord for sustaining us over these last two years, and we are also so very grateful for your prayers.

GOOD news & Bad news

2010-04-22T18:03:00.000-07:00

Dick's PET-Scan was Wednesday in Bham; Thursday we went over the results in Renton.
The good news: all the previous tumors are GONE and their activity level is ZERO!!! Praise the Lord!!!
The bad news: between the scans on December 30 and yesterday, a new tumor has grown behind the esophagus. It's very small (19 mm - about the size of a thumb nail) but is fairly active.

We thank God this tumor was detected this early!! It's hard to imagine that a tumor could not only materialize, but to grow to this size in the midst of all that toxic activity! But like the Doctor told us today, these "Mantle Cells" mutate and develop a resistance to the very thing they're being treated with, which is why it has taken nearly two years to get to this point.

Dick's feet are still giving him a lot of pain, so it's very hard for him to walk. We are going to be trying some new things in the Naturopathic world to get the Neuropathy under control. The Lymphedema (swelling in the feet) is getting better, which is a blessing.

Now it's a matter of getting mentally pumped up to continue the battle, and start up yet another regime. They are going to treat it with a new drug from, of all places, Holland...like Dick!

So we will still be on the road:( Twelve to eighteen more weeks of misery, depending on how he reacts to the side-effects.

Please continue to pray! We thank you for your partnership in praying us through this journey!!

CORRECTION

2010-04-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

Scan is scheduled for Wednesday, April 21st.

Same ol'... Same ol'...Then a Scan!

2010-04-08T23:51:00.000-07:00

Still at it...weekly Wednesday trips to Renton; but we're down to one last treatment!!

Then his scan on the 20th; results on the 22nd.

Lord-willing, those nasty remaining "BAD BOYS" will have been obliterated!!!! Please pray:)

We're still here...

2010-03-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

Oh, my...sorry to leave you hangin'...

We've just been driving back and forth to Renton for another 12-week session. Dick's still being treated with the same German drug that was so successful during the previous 3-month period (at Cancer Treatment Centers of America).

He has done extremely well during this series, though the occasional side-effect will send him over the edge:( NOTE: This time, his hair cut revealed, he's got CURLY HAIR!!!)

We are looking forward to his next scan, which will happen after another 3 or 4 weeks. We hope to be on top of reporting the results as soon as we hear!

Thanks for standing by, and for your faithful prayers!!

.

AND we moved!!!!

2010-01-22T15:42:00.000-08:00

WHEW...a MIRACLE, an ANNIVERSARY, AND a MOVE!!! And all that since 2010 began!!!!

Yup, we moved off the farm and into the "city!" We moved to Blaine the first of the year, and our heads are still spinning!

Dick is continuing treatments for another 8-10 weeks. We don't want to leave those tumors alone...got a little ways to go to ANNIHILATE THEM!!!! So we still need your prayers!!!

We are SOOOOOooooooo very grateful for this wonderful new beginning to a hopeful new year!!! We praise the LORD, and we thank YOU for your part in it!

WOW!!!! 44 years today:)

2010-01-15T23:53:00.000-08:00

Last year at this time, we didn't know what the next several months would bring...But today, PRAISE THE LORD, we celebrated our 44th Anniversary:) Needless to say, we are so very grateful!!!

Officially...it's a MIRACLE!!!!

2010-01-09T22:02:00.000-08:00

OK, I'll try to translate the report:

1 - We're down to only ONE tumor!!!
2 - That ONE tumor has shrunk from 13cm x 7cm...to 4cm x 3.5cm!!!
3- The "activity" level has decreased from 11 to 3 (that's near-normal)!!!

Dr Chen said "It's miraculous!!!" He had never seen a tumor that large shrink to that size, that fast! We told him we have thousands praying for us, and that God still performs miracles!!!

Dick's still dealing with his neuropathy, but it has improved considerably. He's walking pretty well, though still with some pain. I have a tough time keeping him in his "scooter" (a high-speed wheelchair that we've borrowed from our daughter-in-law's father). Dick is traveling all over Blaine in it, building up his arm muscles!

The game-plan now is to continue on with the "miracle-drug" from Germany for another 8-10 weeks or until the remaining tumor is "RESOLVED"! So for now, it's back to dealing with the side-effects.

This New Year's News hasn't totally sunk in...but the sky seems bluer, and the trees do look a little greener, and we're daring to look ahead. It's hard to describe...other than THANK YOU LORD!!! We are so grateful for all the prayers & calls & visits & cards & e-mails & good wishes!!! YOU are a HUGE part of this HUGE answer to our prayers!

We heard this quote awhile ago, and it seems fitting right now:
"It is in the quiet crucible of your personal private sufferings, that your noblest dreams are born and God's greatest gifts are given, in compensation for what you have been through." BOY, does that say it all!!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!!!

No Official Results yeat...BUT...

2010-01-01T01:13:00.001-08:00

Just got a "sneak preview" of the Scan report...and it appears that Dick's tumors have SHRUNK!!!! Will update as we get the official report!!!

We are PRAISING the LORD!!!! & wishing you a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Scan Scheduled...

2009-12-25T23:08:00.000-08:00

We learned yesterday that Dick's PET-Scan is scheduled for December 30th!!! That's sooner than we thought...so we should get results soon after:) Will post a.s.a.p.

THANKS for staying tuned. We pray you had a wonderful Christmas celebration!!

GOD IS GOOD:)

GOOD news to share

2009-12-23T23:19:00.000-08:00

We finally have some GOOD news to share...Dick is feeling MUCH MUCH better!!!! In fact, he has had SEVERAL REALLY GREAT DAYS!!! We are SOoooooo grateful!!!! He seems to have turned at least a momentary corner!!!

Because of the Neuropathy, his feet have been so horribly sore & cold & extremely painful for too many days (that turned into weeks)...so much so, that he was getting used to being in a wheelchair!!!...but NOT happy about it...to say the least!!!

For the moment...which we pray will last a VERY LONG TIME...he is more mobile than he has been IN MONTHS!!!!! YEAH GOD, YEAH for the PRAYERS OF OUR DEAR FRIENDS & FAMILIES!!!!!

He had his "last" injection of Torisel in Renton today. Then around the first of the New Year, he'll have another PET-Scan. THAT will tell us what we need to know to go forward...
LORD-WILLING, it will show the reduction of his tumors OR THEIR TOTAL ERADICATION!!!!

We want to thank you for your many prayers!!! And for standing by with us, for checking in with us, and for your cards & letters & calls & visits!!!! It has meant the world to us!

And we send you our heartiest wishes for a wonderful Christmas celebration! May the joy & peace you find during this Christmas season, shine in your hearts throughout the coming year!!!

We are Praising the Lord for you, and for the birth of the very Heart of Christmas, our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ!!!

Gratefully, Betty & Dick

High-Lights from Dick...

2009-12-12T22:30:00.000-08:00

Betty has been doing a good job on this blog business. But just for fun I thought I would get in here and jazz it up a little bit.

The winter days seem to be longer this year than they were last year; maybe it is because I have been stuck here for over fifteen months now. To date they have tried every imaginable chemotherapy treatment on me and nothing seems to work. Doctor said the other day that he had never experienced anything quite like it…why didn’t that surprise me?! I told him he had better make a few phone calls and see what he could come up with.

He found a drug in Germany that they had used for people like me, but is wasn’t approved in the US. Now that is not a problem. Betty contacted the drug company; they agreed to pay for it, if I would try it. In fact they even decided to mix a radiation therapy routine along with it. The middle of December they will run some tests and see if it has done any good.

Two weeks ago at my treatment, the Doctor asked me if I had had a Swine Flu shot. I informed him I had never had any kind of flu shot. He said that if I contacted the Swine flu with my type of cancer it could kill me. I told him, considering what they have been doing to me that might not be all bad. So they brought in some of the nurses to kind of back up his concern. Well a woman can talk me into just about anything, so the next thing I knew I had a flu shot.

Ten days later I had the Swine flu. Now here I was busy fighting off the effects of the radiation and the non approved drug from Germany, and the Swine flu gets thrown into the mix. Things just keep getting better. Betty calls the world’s most famous oncologist (my doctor) he tells her to go down to the drug store and buy some flu medicine. All this, after the life-saving Swine flu shot…

After five straight days in bed, with not enough energy to make it to the bathroom, I am using a “chamber pot” positioned next to my bed. I finally called my daughter in-law, who is kind of in the “woo-woo” business, to see if she had something that would fix me up. She said “No problem, we’ll have you up and around in no time!” I should have her treating my cancer.

• First thing we had to do is to have Betty start “water-boarding” me. I will explain: three minutes in the shower with as hot a water as I can stand, then one minute with cold water. Now this is the fun part that will have you climbing the walls. You do three cycles of this.
• Then heat up some apple cider vinegar and breath in the fumes eighty times, this will break up the congestion.
• Then take powdered aspirin (Goody’s) for the unbelievable headaches, and one is on the road to recover.

Two days later I was up and around and feeling much better! So much for the Flu shot. Now I have to start building up my stamina, so I can stand the next round of nonsense they have planned for me next week. The good news is that I am still alive!!!! We thank the Lord...and your prayers...for that!!

I have been at the Treatment Center in Renton (Seattle’s branch of Cancer Treatment Centers of America) for almost a year now, which I think, makes me the longest surviving patient. I even have my own private room. The nurses are great, and love to hear all my stories. In fact, the staff got together and surprised me with a recorder, so I could record the stories and then write them down. So I think what I will do, is write on Betty’s blog. This might perhaps make the days go by a little faster, and get us all into an exciting new endeavor.

I want to add here, how great Betty has been throughout this ordeal. She is constantly encouraging me and spends all day running around doing stuff for me.

I am currently immobile due to a nasty side-effect of the chemo: Neuropathy. I can’t walk so I have to get around in a wheel-chair. It is hard to imagine what it is like to operate a wheel chair to move around (frustrating!), but she just hangs in there with a smile and always whistling a happy tune.

Thank God for the “Cute-Thing”. Hope this “can’t walk” business doesn’t last too long!!!

DOWN-time UP-date

2009-12-09T23:35:00.000-08:00

It's been a rough THREE weeks:( BOY, that flu took it's toll!!!!)

He's had every side-effect known to man...severe headaches, low-grade fever, nausea, tiredness, light-headed, chills, lack of appetite, dizzy, then add to that the "C" side-effects...neuropathy, tumor-pain, bone-pain, low blood counts, etc., etc., etc.!!!!! Not proven, but it sounds like he might have had the Swine Flu!?!?!?

He's been really discouraged 'cause he couldn't go to Seattle for his treatments: the first week, his platelets were too low; then the 2nd week, he wouldn't have been able to make the trip...he was exTREMELY sick!!!!

We finally went down last week for what should have been his last treatment... but because he had missed TWO, they scheduled TWO MORE...At that point we would have been "done" with the weekly drives to Renton (until after his PET-Scan).

Then today, treatment day, we had to "call in sick" again...he was just too pooped to pop!!! MORE flu symptoms...stuffed up head so bad he could hardly breathe, sooooo tired, and the pain in his feet was nearly unbearable:( So his doc prescribed some pain medication (I think it's only his 1st).

That's his worst problem now: the Neuropathy:( His feet are in constant pain:( It's very difficult for him to walk, so we've borrowed a wheel chair for him to get around in the house, allowing the least amount of walking (and these "rock floors" are TORTURE for him!!!) He's not comfortable anywhere, so he spends a great deal of time in bed:(

They will set up his scan at least two weeks AFTER his last treatment....now we're not sure WHEN that will be...And his Radiologist wants to wait 8 weeks after his last Radiation for the scan also. So I guess we're looking at the first of the year.

We're so grateful for the prayers!!! We are praying for a breakthrough with his feet, and for a miracle with this scan!!! Lord-willing, it will show massive reduction to his tumors, and the answer to our prayers!!!!!!!!!!

THANKS, PRAISES (& a few complaints)

2009-11-24T22:50:00.000-08:00

Dick's not feeling well AT ALL:( Looks like he's fighting a flu; he's been in bed most of the last week, with a severe headache, stomach pain, low blood pressure, low-grade temp, tired & light-headed, stuffy nose, etc., etc...you name it! :( BINGO...yup, sounds like the flu~~~

Not even sure if we'll go to Renton tomorrow for treatment. Had blood work done here, but no results yet. Last week, his Red count & Platelets were too low, so he couldn't have his treatment...though we had already driven down. So they gave him high-dose Vitamin C infusion instead...but he's been sick ever since:(

We still have so much to be grateful for...but Lord-willing, we'll have a better report soon...

We do hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and pray that your families are well, and seated around your table!! That would be cause for Thanks-Giving!!

God bless your day as you celebrate God's gifts and blessings to us all:)

The battle continues...

2009-10-26T22:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry we have been remiss...didn't have much to report lately. It's been relatively "quiet" since we began the newest treatment.

Dick finished his 6th "German Experience" in Renton last week (began September 16)...and today was our 13th Radiation trip to B'ham (5 days a week since October 8th).

The Neuropathy comes and goes, but effects his walking (COLD-feeling feet, but hot to the touch; and the balls of his feet are sore and they ache:( He puts a heating pad/ice off and on daily, which seems to help. So instead of walking, he has been riding his bike around the yard lately for his exercise.

His blood-work has been pretty remarkable, even though we expected other side-effects, i.e., raised glucose & cholesterol levels, and lower platelets & blood counts. But thanks to the supplements & his diet, they're staying pretty close to normal ranges:)

We're also thanking the Lord that his side-effects are minimal...though occasionally the nausea catches up with him:( Most days, though, he feels pretty well, considering.

We thank you, as always for tuning in & holding us UP with your prayers~~~~

What about the REST of the Family?

2009-09-30T23:04:00.000-07:00

Thought we'd add some info about our boys & their families...where they are, and what they're up to these days.

Look to the right under "About Us"...click on "View...Profile"...then select "LifeLine" for family updates...

We're into to it now...

2009-09-30T22:48:00.000-07:00

Dick started his new treatment drug from Germany, and today was his 3rd time. A few nasty side-effects, i.e.,"Thrush" of the mouth, but overall he is tolerating it fairly well...hopefully the tumor cells ARE NOT!!!! At least now we only go down to Renton ONCE a week...and so far it's Wednesdays.

Next week he'll start Radiation Therapy. We'll be able to get it done in Bham as our "ZAP" of Choice!!! We are praising the Lord that the best radiologist in the business (at least in WA), and the most advanced (and appropriate) radiology-machine (TOM-ography?) is right here in Bham at St Jo's Cancer Center!!!!! It'll be 5 days a week for at least 4-6 weeks. His drug is scheduled for 10-12 weeks...as far as we know.

Gratefully, he has had many good days in the last couple of weeks, though he is offen tired, and still experiences some nausea. We've gone for a few short drives and he is again talking about a little LONGER drive!!! To date, it's just talk, but for that even, we are grateful:)

PET-Scan Results

2009-09-11T13:17:00.000-07:00

Wednesday's scan has shown that Dick's tumors have grown:( We are disappointed, but not without HOPE!

Here at CTCA, they've not had this happen...these tumors haven't responded substantially to any of the treatments we've had since mid-January.

We had a high-level meeting with the staff this morning (Oncologist, Naturopath, Nurse Practitioner, Administrator & Head Nurse), to determine our next plan of action. The decision was made to use a "new" drug (IV drip, one day per week) available in Europe for Lymphoma, but not approved as yet in the US for Dick's unique situation. They are applying for its' use here & now...they supply...Dick's the "Clinical Trial!"

It may be used in conjunction with Radiation. If so, that would be FIVE days each week, for at least FOUR weeks... Hopefully, in Everett, so we wouldn't have to drive quite so far!

It's all in the Lord's hands...so thanks for keeping us in your prayers to Him!

...and then a turn for the better!!!!

2009-08-31T19:32:00.000-07:00

We are praising the LORD...and reporting that the last week has been Dick's BEST WEEK for some time!!:) He's FINALLY had a break in the dizziness, bloat & pain...for which we are so very grateful!!!

We've even had some special times: a couple of drives in the country...two fairly pleasant drives to Renton...getting together with friends...visitors at the farm...a breakfast out AND a dinner out...even went to a birthday party for a dear friend!!!!

Must be your prayers!!!! THANK YOU for standing by...and holding us up!!!

Rough Days:(

2009-08-24T00:06:00.000-07:00

Dick had several rough days last week:( Lots of back pain, bloating, light-headed, and his feet are very sore!?!

Dr Chen is scheduling another PET-Scan for the 1st week of September to find out what's causing this discomfort. He's pretty sure it's the side-effects from the Revlimid (Chemo-assist pill) that Dick takes daily; I'm pretty sure it's pressure from the tumors breaking up and getting blasted into space!!! (AND the left-over Medicare-ills!!)

That's my story, and I'm sticking with it!!!!!!!

"More Good Days than Bad!"

2009-08-15T23:42:00.000-07:00

The word from Dick is, "...more good days than bad...this week at least!"

Monday will begin week #7 of this newest protocol. The fancy drugs (Medicare calls them "Specialty Drugs") are Velcade, the 60-second injection 6x's/month, and Revlimid, which is his daily pill ($350+ @)...a "hard pill to swallow!!!" They come with many side-effects of course; most are tolerable, though none are pleasant:(

Hopefully we'll have another scan in 2-3 weeks to see what's going on with those blasted tumors...HOPEFULLY THEY ARE...BLASTED, that is!!!!

We continue to THANK YOU for your many prayers!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Dick - 65 today!!

2009-08-03T18:11:00.000-07:00

Medicare on the 1st...then a Birthday today...WHEW!!!! "65"...that sure sounds OLD!?!?!?! Unfortunately, it FEELS OLD too!:(

Dick hasn't been feeling very well...he's been woozy & fuzzy & still has a bunch of owies...but in spite of it all, he enjoyed (TWO!) birthday gatherings:)

Hope to get some answers when we meet with his Oncologist & Naturopath tomorrow in Renton. Will keep you posted.

Next...

2009-07-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

We started Dick's new regime and we're two weeks into it. This is our "OFF" week, though we found we're still "ON" for one trip to Renton (for his Rituxan infusion).

We're still not quite sure how this treatment is going, though Dick has had a couple of his best days in months!!!:) He still get fatigued, though less and less, is back walking, is still eating well, and his blood work is looking good!

Dick turns 65 in TWO WEEKS, so we've been hustling to get the Medicare stuff taken care of and still remain in treatment...WOW!!! Quite the transition...we're praying none of his needs will be "short-changed" in the process!

Since we're "off" every third week, we are still hoping to take off for a few days somewhere in the next few weeks...before summer is over!!! Thank you, as always, for tuning in & praying!!!

Here we go again...

2009-07-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

After a painful weekend, we met with Dr Cunningham at the Cancer Treatment Center who is covering for Dr Chen, who is out of the country. He made the decision to begin the new round of treatments immediately.

He believes the tumors had indeed "turned on a dime" and were causing Dick the pain that sent him to the ER last week. The new drug, Velcade, is a 60-second "push" for which we will drive to Renton TWICE each week for 2 weeks, then get a week off. This will be our schedule for the next 12 weeks.

He'll also take a daily pill here at home, Revlimid, which enhances the production of red blood cells, and kills the "bad guys," and has been very successful with other cancers besides Dick's Mantel Cell Lymphoma.

He is already feeling less pain! We are praying for his strength to return, and that this new regime will further reduce the tumors, and inhibit their return!!

Results

2009-07-03T21:36:00.000-07:00

THEN...they did a CT-Scan too...

Dick's GP called this a.m. to say that the test results didn't find anything terribly wrong, but said the pain is probably on account of the cancer tumor(s).

Dick doubled his nausea meds and has found that has helped considerably with his tummy pain. But we also learned that his new kidney pains are also most likely a "by-product" of the Chemo. Being a couple of "quarts low" in the blood department is caused by the Chemo suppressing the bone marrow's ability to make red blood cells. His Oncologist in Renton said that it's a wonder he hasn't needed blood earlier.

In the last couple of weeks, he hasn't been eating enough protein, which also adds to the blood problem. SOOOOooo, he'll be raising his protein intake.

A bit of a scarey session, but thanks to our docs in Renton, not as much of a surprise as the doctors here suspected.

Unfortunately, the pain has not gone away, so we thank you in advance for your continued prayers.

"E.R." was NOT Plan "A"!!!

2009-07-02T01:38:00.000-07:00

The "Break" we are taking was NOT our original Plan...Dick has been having stomach trouble since early this week, so we had to put off our "get-away" for the time being:(

Wednesday morning we went to Emergency in Bellingham to discover the cause of his pain. They did the normal blood work...which revealed a low red blood count and found him to be anemic. So they suggested 2 units of blood.

Then to find out why the blood loss, they did an Endoscopy. However, they couldn't find any problems there. We are certainly grateful, but now we have a "mystery." So he stayed overnight for further tests tomorrow, an Abdominal Ultrasound, then a Colonoscopy.

We still plan to take a few days off before resuming his treatments. Will update as we gather more information and recieve tomorrow's results.

TAKING A BREAK!!!

2009-06-22T22:20:00.000-07:00

Dick just finished his 2nd 12-week session in Renton!!! But before we begin again,

WE ARE GOING TO TAKE A BREAK!!!

We might even "hit the road"... our favorite old pastime!!??!! Maybe even take a COUPLE of weeks off!!! We'll still keep in touch from the road...just don't know WHICH road we'll be on at this writing?!?!?!

But we still need your prayers!!!

PET scan

2009-06-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

My PET scan Friday showed that the tumors are stable.

The metabolic activity has decreased since the March scan. Not much activity; but with very little activity, the chemo is not as effective. Just wish we could get the tumors in some sort of remission.

Had my last chemo of this session yesterday, then will have a "naturopathic" treatment next week (high-dose Vitamin C + Rituxin).

THEN....we are going to take a month off and let the body rebuild, before we start with the third segment of this treatment. We'll be using a drug (not chemo) that attacks the protein on the cancer cell, in hopes of getting rid of them them. Looks like we are going to be at this for another 12 weeks.

No News...

2009-06-07T22:40:00.000-07:00

Just a quickie: Dick had his PET-CT Scan Friday, but won't hear results until Thursday.

Been feeling pretty puny this week. Lots of nausea, light headed, woozy, bloating...in fact, we canceled our normal Thursday session in Renton...we're in need of a BREAK!!! We've been at it for over 20 weeks....just this year!!!! Add the treatments in B'ham, and we're going on 10 months!!!

Each day he's a little better, stronger, more stamina, etc. But we're praying for still MORE!!!

CT-Scan and...NEXT?!?

2009-05-28T16:10:00.000-07:00

Well, again, it wasn't quite what we'd hoped for...
Tuesday's CT-Scan DID show there was NO further growth of tumors, and NO spread of the disease to his organs, for which we are so grateful!!! What it DID NOT show, was how active the cancer cells are.

SOOoooooo....at this point, another scan (a PET CT-Scan) has been scheduled for next Friday. After that, we (and the CTCA Team in Renton) will make the decision to either a) go into a maintenance program which would hold the tumors as they are, or b) to switch to another drug (not a Chemo) that would target the growth protein in the cells and hopefully diminish them further.

Since there's been very little activity in the tumors for the last few weeks (that's a good thing!), the current Chemo has not been as effective (that's been a SLOW thing!).

IF we continue treatment, it'll be same time, same place, same day. That's our future, as we know it! BUT, we know Who's in control of it!

CORRECTION!

2009-05-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

No UGI today (it was supposed to be for "small bowel" too)...but doc forgot to give prep instructions!?! Rescheduled for June 2!

Scan - Time!

2009-05-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

Remember those "unexplained" issues we wrote about (see below)? Dick's Dr has scheduled one test for tomorrow to check out his upper GI; and a CT-Scan for Tuesday morning to find out if anything's left of those dirty-bad-nasty cancer cells.

Hope to learn the results at our next Thursday appointment in Renton. Will post here a.s.a.p.!!!

Keep up the prayers...we know they're working:)

Trying our Best...

2009-05-20T09:28:00.000-07:00

Time to post...been waiting for earth-shattering news...but nada...better post anyway!

It's been a long couple of weeks since we shared anything here. Dick's had lots of bloating, light-headed, nausea, low-energy:( But neuropathy* is better, sleeping is good and appetite still going strong:) *NOTE: one day Dick had stabbing pain in his foot...Dr Reilly told us to get some "Boswellin Cream." WOW!!!! PAIN GONE in an instant!!!!

Sounds weird, but there's also been a lot of unexplained stuff going on here too...pain in his bones, neck, back, etc., but the docs say they are "GOOD pains"...all signs that his body is fighting those "bad boys" and he is getting better!!!:)

Still doing the Renton-thing every Thursday, coming up on 20 weeks if my count is correct. Scan not scheduled as yet, but hoping for next week, and HOPING for AMAZING results!!! Will keep you posted (promise!!!)!!!

We're at 17 weeks!!

2009-05-06T22:13:00.000-07:00

Well, we figure we're already over 1/2 way through "Plan B" at CTCA in Renton, though 17 weeks of driving South. Can't believe that 2009 has been spent ON THE ROAD!!!! Tomorrow Dr Chen should decide when the next CT-Scan will be.

Dick's had a rough week:( More nausea, but the worst was "bone pain" for the last couple of days. Had to call the clinic late last night to find out what we could do, and why this was happening. Seems it's "good pain"!!! The bones are doing their best work...making new blood cells!!! Lord-willing, these are new HEALTHY blood cells to replace those BAD BOYS who are on their way OUT!!!!

He felt 100% better by this afternoon...the explanation helped greatly:) plus a little Ibuprofen!!!

Thanks so much for checking in on us, keeping an eye on the blog, your calls, cards, notes, e-mails and visits. You'll never know how much they all mean to us:) You're the greatest!!!!

Are we Mid-Way?

2009-04-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

Let's see...it's been 3 Chemo weeks & 2 "Other"...we MAY be about half-way, but we won't really know until we're done AND in remission!

Dick's been felling fairly well for several days! And we've been pretty social too, so it's been a pretty good test. Since mid-week, we've gone to a tennis match (grand-daughter Sarah - and she WON!), visited with dear friends (the Wrights), met our (potential) "new" Pastor at a church gathering, had lunch with friends (the Mulders), went to Sis & Bro's 35th Anniversary party (Jennie & John), did church, entertained another grand-girl (Sydney) for the afternoon (I even saw Grandpa kicking a soccer ball around with her)...

Interspersed, are periods of nausea, stomach pain, neuropathy, dizziness, etc., but overall, he's gaining strength & stamina, is maintaining his weight (AND his hair!), and he's back to dreaming & scheming!!!

BEST of all, though, is a growing sense of WELLNESS and GRATITUDE and HOPE!!!

Tuesday nite...

2009-04-07T22:36:00.000-07:00

Not much news, but thought I'd better post something...
Last week was Chemo, so not too great since then; but each day seems to be a little better.

Dick's making some awesome "Smoothies"these days... VERY nutritious, berries, apples, bananas, whey protein, soy milk, etc.! DELICIOUS too, but they have the protein he needs to not only elevate his white counts, but also to gain weight. The docs were very pleased that he had gained another 4 pounds last week! He's now at his fighting weight!!!

Risa & sometimes Pete come to see us at the treatment center, and both Pete's Zoe & Risa's Taylor have come to visit; and a couple of weeks ago Steve came down too. What a blessing for both of us, and special "perks" for Dad!

..and the week goes on...

2009-03-24T22:06:00.000-07:00

Not a great week since our last post:(

Dick's been feeling pretty puny...same old nausea, lack of energy, some pain near the tumor site (and radiating from his Umbilical Hernia), somewhat overwhelmed, and even his appetite has decreased. A bit of a transition to a new Chemo regime, also some depression with the news that we must trudge on for another round of 10-12 weeks of our Thursday routines.

But we are still amazed and grateful for his treatment at CT&WC in Renton!

Results are in....

2009-03-19T15:27:00.000-07:00

Dick met with his Oncologist this morning in Renton. His PET-Scan showed his tumors have had no further growth, and for the time being, are inactive. However, to continue forward, his doctors have made the decision to alter his Chemo treatments and Naturopathic therapies, and have prescribed an additional 10 weeks of Thursdays here at the Cancer Treatment Center in Renton.

This was not the news we had hoped for, as the plan had been to finish the first of April. But we are trusting the Lord for His plan, and we continue to covet your prayers.

Praying for His will, Dick & Betty

Still no word...

2009-03-18T22:23:00.000-07:00

We'll meet with Dr Chen in Renton tomorrow for the results of Dick's PET-Scan from Wednesday. Will post a.s.a.p.

Scan Moved Again...to Wednesday!

2009-03-16T22:04:00.000-07:00

Scheduling mix up...Scan moved to early Wednesday (Bham). Hope to find out results at our Thursday appointment in Renton. Will post a.s.a.p.

Please pray!

Scan Moved Up

2009-03-15T14:31:00.000-07:00

We're down to THREE more treatments!!

Dick wasn't feeling too great these last couple of weeks, so reported his symptons to the doc before his Thursday visit. So his Chemo was reduced that day; and his upcoming PET-Scan has been moved up by 3 weeks, to this Tuesday!!

We're anxious to see the results, and praying they will show that the "BAD GUYS" have been POSITIVELY REMARKABLY REDUCED!!! We should know Thursday, so will post the results here.

One crummy note, he has also recently acquired an "umbilical hernia":( which will need a little surgery when the doc approves the timing.

We're down to 4 more trips!

2009-03-11T00:24:00.000-07:00

We've had a Chemo week and a Naturopathic week since we last posted an update. SOooo, we have 4 more to go!!!

Dick's feeling some of the cumulative effects and side-effects of the Chemo: some Neuropathy, some stomach pain, sometimes mouth sores. But even on his "bad" days, he makes ME tired! He's still walking a mile or two a day; doing all the cooking; making great new recipes; he makes himself a special healthy & nutritious & caloric & protein-filled "smoothie" twice a day; spends a couple of hours on the computer to stay busy; he's taking 30-40 supplements a day; and we take at least one drive most days!!!

We're looking forward to his next scan in 3 or 4 weeks. Praying those tumors are GONE!!! His doctors in Renton are pleased with his progress. ME TOO!! He hasn't lost his hair again, his color is good, and he's gained back most of the weight he lost last fall!!!:)

And FYI: As of February 28th, we have a new daughter-in-law and grand-daughter...when Pete married Risa Richmire, and Zoe gained a sister, Taylor, also 9 years old, at a sweet ceremony at the High Alpine Chapel in Issaquah!!! Prayers are welcome for this new little family!!!

Six down...Six to go!!

2009-02-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

YUP!!! We're half-way through Dick's treatments at Cancer Treatment & Wellness Center (CTWC) in Renton!

We're a little "blue" today though, 'cause we both have icky colds!! Thankfully, it's NOT pneumonia (Betty went to the doc yesterday), but it's kept us both down for several days. PRAYing it will soon run its' course!!

Other than that, Dick's been feeling good most days and still tolerating the treatments relatively well. We actually look forward to our Thursdays at the Center. The Nurses are terrific, the doctors are always available, Risa often comes by for a visit, and the time goes by fairly quickly. Last week, our dear friend, Ann came along, so she could see first-hand how our weekly visits go.

But it's getting closer and closer to Spring, and Papa's getting pretty antsy. He can't wait to get back to "work!" Whatever is next on the agenda, we apparently are not yet in control of!!! Until the Lord lets us in on that little "secret," we'll just pray till that day, and just keep on keepin' on!!!

For this week, we need to be well enough for treatment on Thursday, and ALL BETTER by Saturday for a drive to Issaquah ... for Pete & Risa's Wedding !!!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-13T22:22:00.000-08:00

If you're reading this on Saturday, Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Dick finished his 5th treatment of 12 on Thursday...we're nearly 1/2 way through!
He's feeling fairly well, though will be VERY grateful when he is finally able to catch up on his sleep!!! Most days, he feels very "normal"...for which we are so grateful.

We are so pleased with his doctors, with his care, with his treatments and with the facility in Renton at the Seattle Cancer & Wellness Center! Everyone we have met are so helpful, and knowledgeable, and available, and optimistic...the main topic of conversation there is HOPE!!!

He is feeling so well, that he is beginning to think about making plans for our future!!! He can hardly wait to get back to work...whenever and whatever the Lord has for us!!

We thank the Lord for leading us there, and for your continued prayers!!!

Post Treatment #3

2009-02-01T20:20:00.000-08:00

It's the 1st of February...three days after Dick's third treatment at CT&WC...and he's feeling "nearly normal"!!! We are so grateful that there are few if any side-effects at this point!!!

He was having sleeplessness for several days, but somewhat better today. The drugs (though few) and naturopathic supplements are helping him through the rough patches!! Still walking a couple of miles each day, eating at least 4 meals daily, and maintaining his weight and GREAT attitude!!!

We are so grateful for his treatment and thank you, as always, for your prayers!!

Other Family News

2009-01-30T17:01:00.000-08:00

FYI: You can view more FAMILY news by clicking on "View my complete profile" under our picture & the roll-call of our GrandKids...then click on "Life Line" for postings...or (I just found out) you can click on or type in http://dickandbetty.blogspot.com

Week #3

2009-01-28T20:39:00.000-08:00

Thursday is Treatment #3 at CT&WC in Renton.

Dick felt great ALL week after his first treatment!!!

His second session was shorter, and consisted of Chemo AND Vitamin C injection, with a "chaser" of an Immune System Booster shot! He was warned that he would feel like he had a touch of the flu for a few days...and UNfortunately, they were right! Added to that, though, was several days of sleeplessness and a severe cough...mostly at night:(

Tomorrow we drive the 2 1/2 hours back to Renton, and hopefully he'll feel up to #3. They don't want him to miss his treatments, so Lord-willing, he'll feel better. Please pray for stamina, and SLEEP!!!

It's a GOOD Monday!

2009-01-19T09:43:00.000-08:00

Lots to tell, but the short version is that we began treatment Friday in Renton at Cancer Treatment & Wellness Center (Seattle's clinic with Cancer Treatment Centers of America). We met with both Dr Reilly and Dr Chen on Thursday, and agreed to begin with the Chemo treatment.

The first defense = natural supplements, with protection for Chemo and possible side-effects BEFORE we began. Then 6-7 hours of "fractional" Chemo.

Dick's feeling relatively well so far, eating VERY well, pretty active, driving, walking several times each day!

Our schedule for the next 10-11 weeks, is 1-2 hours a week in the clinic (Renton), alternating Chemo one week, and high doses of Vitamin C + Chemo (targeting the cancer) the next week.

Will try to keep you posted more regularly...thanks for staying tuned! We are so grateful for your thoughts and prayers!

A NEW Outlook!

2009-01-09T10:32:00.000-08:00

For the last two months (since the end of Round 2), we've been in contact with the Cancer Treatment Cancers of America (www.cancercenter.com). This is a privately owned treatment center that was started by a very wealthy individual whose wife passed away as a result of the current accepted treatments of most of the Oncologists to date...Chemotherapy, Radiation or Surgery. If they even talk about other treatments they can lose their license. We know this to be a fact, because when Dick brings up other ideas, our current Oncologist walks out of the room! So we have been basically on our own regarding alternate methods of treatment. Because our therapy schedules were in conflict, we had been unable to meet with CTCA.

YESTERDAY that all changed:) An appointment became available. It was like going from the "dark ages" into the "land of enlightenment!" Here, we met with a Naturopathic Oncologist, Dr. Reilly, who confirmed to us that what we had been doing naturopathicly using our own research, was RIGHT ON! He told us to keep it up, and suggested some modifications and additions that would make it even more effective.

We then met with the Oncologist, Dr. Chen, who has practiced Oncology on three continents, Europe, Asia and in the US, using a wide variety of treatment combinations (that had never been discussed in Bellingham). Dick asked him if he was clever enough to get him "fixed up" to be able to go fishing this summer in Alaska. He replied that if he could go along, he would do the best he could!

With that in mind, we all got together to discuss the best avenue of treatment for Dick's Lymphoma, using both Naturopathic and Medical therapies. (We also found out that Dr. Reilly had spent many years in Fairbanks, Alaska, so from then on it was like "old home week.")

What a morale booster this meeting was! Rather than hearing, "well, we better try something else and see how that works," to "this is what we used in the past, and it put the cancer into remission!"

The day after Dick's PET/CT scan next week, we'll meet again at CTCA in Renton to begin his new regimen...it will NOT be a week in the hospital...but a weekly visit for an hour or two at the most. HALLELUJAH!!! and Praise the Lord!!!

We praise God that Dick survived these last 5 months and three rounds of radical and nearly lethal forms of Chemotherapy! There were times when we wondered if either one of us would survive...so we are eternally grateful for your prayers and concerns during this time.

Now, we hope and pray that Dick and his Chinese Oncologist can go fishing this summer!!!

On the fishing front, all three boys, Hank who runs the F/V Zealot (our old Speculator), and Pete who is deck-boss and engineer on the F/V Miss Roxanne (Steve's boat) are currently underway to Westport, where they'll bait up and await the beginning of the winter Dungeness Crab Season (the 12th) off the coast of Washington. They had planned to leave much sooner, but the weather forecast was predicting 30-40' seas...so they had to wait for the ocean to settle down!! PTL!!!!

Test Results Today

2009-01-02T17:27:00.000-08:00

We had hoped that Round 3 of Chemo would have knocked out the remaining 25-30% of Dick's tumors, but apparently those "bad guys" are still hanging around...not shrinking...but not growing either.

So Dr Rubin has ordered a PET-CT Scan for the 14th, to find out if indeed they are at least not active at this time. Then he will decide the next method of treatment. But for SURE, it WON'T be the same as the previous THREE (that's GOOD news!!)!!

Dick is feeling better all the time, he's walking daily, he's eating VERY well and VERY often, and has gained weight...for which we are so grateful!!! (also, his whiskers are even growing back!!...)

We are still optimistic and plan to keep up the organic and fresh diet, eating little if any dairy or sugar, and encouraging the Naturopathic approach to everything we do! We've also eliminated most of the drugs Dick's been taking for the last 4 months, with the doc's blessing!!!

Thank you all for standing by...we covet your continued prayers!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2008-12-30T22:42:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

It's down to the last hours of 2008!!! We're not too sorry to see this one come to an end! It's been a challenging one for us.

Friday we'll meet with Dick's Oncologist to hear the results of his recent tests. We are hopeful and trusting the Lord for positive news! Will post it here, so stand by!

In the meantime, here's wishing you a FINE 2009!!! New year's blessings to you and yours...with love, from us and ours!!!

God Bless Your Christmas!!

2008-12-23T21:46:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,
It's nearly Christmas, and we want to thank you for your love and prayers and support during this "season" of Dick's health crisis! We don't know how we would have gone through it without you!

Monday he had his "Echo-Cardiogram" and today his "CT-Scan" but as yet no results...however, no alarms either, which we will take as an early Christmas Gift! He is feeling relatively well, and most days are somewhat normal...but with still occasional nausea and weakness. We don't meet with his Oncologist until the New Year, so we've just decided to call this break our "cold winter home-vacation"!!!

Dick & I will be having Christmas Eve-afternoon dinner at Steve & Kelly's home with their family, Hank & Hannah and boys, and Pete & Risa and girls. After the festivities there, we're all planning to go to Sunrise Candlelight Service; then to our house for dessert & snacks, where Grandma Lucie, sister Jennie & John and family, and brother Hank will join us...kind of a mini "progressive dinner"...something my family used to do with our Grandparents and Aunts & Uncles on Christmas when I was a kid in West Seattle! :)

We pray blessings to you and your loved ones this Christmas. May it be a joyous celebration of our Savior's birth, one of hope and love...and remember to build special memories!!

With our love and gratitude, your friends, Dick & Betty

Coasting to Christmas!!

2008-12-10T22:13:00.000-08:00

We've enjoyed these last two weeks with only minimal medical obligations...one or two trips to town sure beats EVERY day!!!:)

Dick is feeling better and stronger every day (though he still has intermittent nausea, weakness & dizziness), and life here is more and more resembling "NORMAL!" So we're looking forward to just enjoying these days before and after Christmas!!

We praise the Lord for daily progress, and continue to pray for complete healing!

THANKING Days!!

2008-11-30T09:38:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for your prayer! Dick was strong enough, felt relatively "normal," counts were up, and spirits were the best in months...so we were BOTH at Thanksgiving dinner. It was wonderful to spend the day with family! We had a GREAT DAY, and trust you did too!

Dick has only blood work scheduled (next 3 Mondays); then the 2 tests just before Christmas (see last post). We are grateful and relieved to be "on vacation" from hospitals, and Chemo, and daily trips to town!!!

Will still keep you posted, as things seem to keep changing. We constantly pray for increased strength, an end to the nausea and dizzyness, his blood pressure to normalize, and his counts to rise to the normal range (to keep infections at bay)...so we can visit again!!!

Post Chemo & Turkey-Day

2008-11-25T22:09:00.000-08:00

Dick is feeling well, though blood counts were low Monday. Praying tomorrow's will be UP and we'll be able to join the family for Thanksgiving at Steve & Kelly's!!

Next is an Echo-Cardiogram and another CT-Scan just before Christmas. BUT NO MORE CHEMO scheduled as yet!!!

We pray that you and your family will have a blessed Thanksgiving Day!!! We will be giving thanks for YOU and for answered prayers!!!

DONE with Chemo! ...for now...

2008-11-18T20:34:00.001-08:00

Just finished Round 3 Chemo at St Jo's and home from the hospital this afternoon!! It went very well, with a minimum of nausea, better sleeping, improved appetite, and a little weight-gain!! Dick is pleased when he can WALK OUT under his own power ... he's weak & dizzy, but UPRIGHT!!!

Right away tomorrow, we start the daily trips to Bham for the 5-minute "Boosters" for his white blood cells!! This time, we're praying for a quicker recovery time and MORE reductions in his tumors!!!

Dr Rubin has suggested another scan in a couple of weeks to determine IF there is a necessity for another round of Chemo and/or the next phase of treatment...IF any!!!

THANKING you again for your continued PRAYERS!!!

Round 3 Chemo today

2008-11-12T08:35:00.000-08:00

Just received word: Dick goes back into the hospital today for 7 days of 24 hour/day Chemo.
Please pray for strength, endurance and peace.

MRI Results... FANTASTIC!!!!

2008-11-10T18:42:00.000-08:00

We are praising the Lord tonight! Dick's MRI of his head came back with no sign of cancer!!! We are so grateful!!

Instead of beginning Chemo tomorrow (Tuesday), we are going to try to get to the bottom of his ongoing nausea. Since the nausea medications aren't helping, we want to see what's going on in his tummy...maybe the beginning of an ulcer?

Will keep you posted about his Chemo. Perhaps later this week.
We are thanking the Lord for this report, and THANK YOU for your prayers!!!!

Another Glitch...

2008-11-05T19:29:00.000-08:00

Dick is now scheduled for an MRI Monday afternoon, instead of starting his Third Round of Chemo...which is again postponed. Hope to find out tomorrow his new start date.
Please pray that this test will determine the cause of his continual nausea so long after his last Chemo.
With gratitude, Dick & Betty

Round 3 Postponed

2008-11-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

Round 3 will start Monday, November 10th.
Dick had a bad day yesterday:( ... might be some sort of drug interaction!?!? or maybe fighting a "bug"?!? or whatever...Dr wants him stronger before we begin again.
Thanks as always, for standing by and praying!!

Amazing Results!!!

2008-10-30T14:34:00.000-07:00

We are praising the Lord for answered prayers!!!

The results of the CT-Scan were AWESOME! The doctor was even AMAZED! They showed REMARKABLE SIGNIFICANCE in shrinking the two large tumors!!! The smaller ones in the Lymph System couldn't be found!!! We assume they are GONE!!!

The nurse who returned the blood work results today said, "You're really kicking BUTT!!!" Top grades for SIGNIFICANT improvement!!

NEXT WEEK: Round 3, another brutal round of 24/7 Chemo at St Jo's. Then another 3 weeks of recovery. Pray for strength and endurance...and Lord-willing, this one will WIPE out the cancer (and avoid Round 4)!!

THANK YOU for your prayers (Please DON'T STOP)!!! God is GOOD!!

And now we WAIT!!!

2008-10-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

Since we last wrote, Dick's been everywhere from sick...to OK...to "nearly normal"...but not necessarily in that order!?!
Had his CT-Scan Monday, so we are anxiously awaiting those results! After two rounds of Chemo, we will see how the cancer has been "beat back," or shrunk, or Lord-willing, OBLITERATED!!!!
The answer will predict our next step or their next regime!
(So stay tuned!)
THANK YOU for PRAYING with us!!!

Then things changed....

2008-10-25T18:56:00.000-07:00

Well, about the time we posted that last comment, and moments after we sent a prayer-to-PRAISE update, things went "south"...
...The big thing MISSING for the last 3 days, was SLEEP...But don't know where it went:(
...And the icky thing ADDED at the same time, was an unexplained tummy ache...A pain in the gut:(
Guess we'll just have to stay on our knees, pray for rest, and stay in HIS way!!!

A Good Day!!!

2008-10-21T23:19:00.000-07:00

Dick has had a good couple of days!!! White blood count is UP!!! Mouth sores are BETTER!!! Weight is UP!!!! Appetite is still GREAT!!! (We might share some of his tasty, organic, nutritious recipes!)

We even got the day off today...from driving into town for his infusion!!! Guess that makes him a "Good Boy"!!!!
Thank you for your faithful prayers!!!!

Post Chemo Side-Efects:(

2008-10-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

Today was day 5 since our second hospital Chemo ordeal ended. Though his appetite and cooking (he's found some great new healthy recipes!) and eating has been good, Dick has been light-headed and/or nauseated most of the week.
His Day 3 gave him brutal stomach pains, then added back pain through the night...then vanished!...for which we are VERY grateful!!!

Now he has developed the dreaded mouth sores:( So an extra degree of difficulty and pain has been now added to his eating, talking and swallowing.
His bloodwork today showed his white blood cell count (WBC) very low, at 0.3 (and if you know what "NE#" means, it was 0.0)...that doesn't sound good to me!?!...like NONE?
We originally had the weekend off from driving into Bham, but with his low counts, he needs to have his "Booster" shots both days!
So for 5 or 6 more days, it's more of the same...
We pray for restful sleep, minimal side-effects, and healthier WBC!

Survived Round 2!!!

2008-10-14T20:42:00.000-07:00

We're back home after another week of Chemo...and praising the Lord that we are still upright!! The last couple of days were pretty intense...by Sunday Dick thought he could TASTE the Chemo :-o But the good thing was, he was looked after by the most attentive staff of "angels" in the Medical Care Unit, and we have made wonderful new friends there!

He's pretty weak, but his stamina and appetite improve each day; and his white blood count is higher now than it was by this time last round, for which we are grateful:) We're driving into Bham daily now for his "Booster" injections...though we get the weekend OFF this time:)

Dr Rubin wants to take a look at our progress after next week, so has scheduled a CT-Scan on Monday the 27th. He had originally suggested FOUR rounds, but Dick is anxious to see how he is doing, with all that we are doing!!! i.e., eating organic veggies and cancer-fighting foods, juicing for nutrition, taking many wonderful natural supplements, and being blessed by YOUR continuing PRAYERS!!!!

We're Underway - Round 2

2008-10-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

We began Monday morning with Round 2 Chemo, which is basically the same regime as Round 1. The worst of the drugs was yesterday afternoon; he came through the night with a fair bit of nausea, but at this writing, is up and eating and chugging along. Sleep is at a premium, but spirits are good!
Dick has a big room that looks out on the trees in their fall colors (#258) and the huge American flag! He'll be here until Sunday unless orders change.
A HUGE thank you for your thoughts & prayers & calls & e-mails & cards & visits & encouragement!!! We are overwhelmed with gratitude!

Round 2: Monday at St Jo's

2008-10-01T15:40:00.000-07:00

Conferred with Dr Rubin this afternoon. Dick is now scheduled for Round 2 at the hospital on Monday morning, October 6th. Assume for 7 days, with 10 days follow-up for "Infusions" of white blood cell "Boosters." Will post any changes.
It'll probably be as brutal as the last, so your prayers are most appreciated! We are so grateful that he is eating well, feeling well and rested, and is ready to fight again!

Delayed again...

2008-10-01T12:17:00.001-07:00

Stay tuned, may have more info later today...but NO CHEMO today.

Round 2 Delay

2008-09-26T21:46:00.000-07:00

Received word this afternoon from Dr Rubin's office, that the earliest we start Round 2 of Chemo at St Jo's, will be Wednesday. Time to heal and refresh!!!
Feeling well, eating well, and extremely grateful! Also looking well in his "new do" (YUP! shaved to within 1/4" of his scalp!!)!!!

Progress Report

2008-09-24T22:42:00.000-07:00

White Blood Count has come up as of today...for which we are grateful!!! No need for "booster" today:) In fact, we may have the rest of the week off...while we wait for word about beginning "Round 2" next week (Monday or Tuesday @ St Jo's).
We are so grateful for your prayers!!!

Day #5 POST-Hospital

2008-09-19T21:57:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is 6th trip of 10 to Bham post-hospital...
Geting daily infusions of "Blood Cell BOOSTERS"
But Oh, Oh!...White Blood Cell Count is low...
In Need of Prayer!!! No more Chemo until levels increase...

Home Again!!

2008-09-15T15:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,
FIRST, thank you for your prayers!!
Dick is VERY grateful to be home from the hospital after 7 days of Chemo. I guess it went well, as there were minimal side-effects from LOTS of drugs. It was a LONG week! He is resting, but anxious to return to his old self. The nausea comes and goes, but so far, is under control. We are praying for all functions to return to normal....before we do it again!
We now begin the daily drive to Bham for the next 10 days for "infusions"...that was new news this morning:(...plus oral meds here at home.
Thank you again for your calls, cards, visits, thoughts and prayers!!!
From Us again! Betty & Dick

Chemo Day #5

2008-09-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

DITTO Day 3!!! All is still on schedule, Dick is still doing fine, and still has few, if any, side-effects from the Chemo...for which we continue to be grateful!!! He should be released Sunday afternoon; then two weeks at home (with trips to "Infusion")...then back here on the 29th to begin the second round of the same.
Love from us, Betty & Dick

Bring it ON!

2008-09-10T13:26:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,
Chemo has begun. This is Day 3 of what was to be a 4 day stay at St Jo's in Bellingham. Dick's Oncologist, Dr Rubin, has increased his stay by an additional 3 days. He is doing well, eating well, and tolerating the Chemo regime so far with very few side-effects, for which we are truly grateful!
THANK YOU for your prayers and calls and visits and offers of help!
I hope to keep you updated as often as I can.
Love, Betty for us

We've Got a Plan!

2008-09-04T13:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks for asking, and thanks for your patience! (We've all needed some!!)
Learned noon yesterday, they wanted us to start Chemo...YESTERDAY?!?!?!? Unfortunately, NO ONE informed US!!!
SOOOOOOooooooo...met this morning with Dr Rubin (only the 2nd time); went over the test results performed in the last weeks (added yet another one yesterday - an Endoscopy "EGD"), compared scans, talked about options, etc.
Dick is feeling quite well, and strong, and though the tumors have not advanced since detection (for which we feel DOUBLE-BLESSED!!!), we made the decision to commence with therapy.
THEREFORE:
Dick will begin Chemotherapy at St Jo's Hospital in Bellingham on Monday morning. He will be there for 3-4 days. Guess they'll let us know the "rest of the story" after that. Assuming an additional 10-14 day as out-patient Chemo, then off for several days...then the "Full Meal Deal" all over again...Lord knows how many times...
We thank you for your continued support and prayers and love!!
Sending our love back to you, Dick & Betty

W-A-I-T-I-N-G!!!

2008-08-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

We are still awaiting results from the week's earlier tests...no results yet, so no orders from the doc yet for next week.
With the help of a Naturepath, Dick's able to swallow better and finally get food down, which needless to say has greatly improved his situation! (He was getting pretty discouraged.)
We've also made contact with some pretty amazing folks who have survived cancer using alternative therapies, mostly relying on foods that God has given us, where the body can assist in healing itself...for which we praise the Lord!!!

First Day of (Oncology) School!

2008-08-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Killer schedule today:
6:30 am: Emergency @ Hospital - difficulty breathing during the night, and still has a bad "swallower"
7:30 am: Imaging - PET-CT Scan, gotta find those "rascals" so we can nail 'em!
10:00 am: Radiology - Port check - re-bandage, check rash (apparently Dick is allergic to the latex bandages/dressings)
11:00 am: Oncology - "School" - Rx, medications, chemo, drugs discussed during upcoming "Therapies" (could begin as early as Tuesday, including 3-4 days IN-Patient @ St. Jo's in Bham)
1:00 pm: Pathology - Bone Marrow Biopsy (needled him in his back!)

Until we hear the test results from all these "-ologies", no schedule available...when we know, we'll post it.
THANK you all for your thoughts and prayers! Wish we could call everybody, but thank goodness for e-mail & blogging! Love to all, Betty & Dick

Update + Correction

2008-08-25T18:07:00.000-07:00

Shoulder OK now; throat closing yesterday & today:(
Wednesday a.m. = Bone Marrow Biopsy

Upcoming Events

2008-08-24T16:57:00.000-07:00

Dick is feeling fairly well, except his shoulder is aching,
presumably from the insertion of the "Chest Port" Friday.
MORE appointments this week:
MONDAY
~ Check & Re-Bandage "Port"
WEDNESDAY
~ PET/CT Scan
~ "Teaching" @ Oncology
~ Pathology for Bone Marrow "test"?
Lots more to come, I'm sure...

Adding another Note

2008-08-21T21:34:00.000-07:00

Dick goes in Friday morning at 8 for the insertion of the "Chest Port." Specific treatment still hasn't been decided, but he opted to get this little "job" done sooner than later!

Oncology Q&A

2008-08-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

Still "digesting" what the doc shared with us yesterday?!?!? We spent a couple of hours listening and asking questions. Dr Rubin was very kind, and thorough, and informative.

He is suggesting a couple more tests, a PET Scan, which is scheduled for next week, and a Bone Marrow test. He is recommending Chemo, and MAYBE later, Stem Cell Transplant (Dick's OWN stem cells). What, when, where (probably Seattle), IF, and how much... we have yet to learn.

We meet today for a consultation about the "Port" (for adding meds, and drawing blood)...more later on that. Looks like it could be a long drawn-out affair. However, some of the alternatives we've researched may be more promising than "cutting & burning." We'll have to make some more decisions next week.

For now, Dick is feeling OK...considering! This week he has been "juicing" his meals, as his throat has pressure on it and his "swallower" isn't working too well.

We are relatively calm in the midst of this new "storm" so we know we can attribute that to the Lord working, and to your prayers and concern...for which we praise Him we thank you!!!
Love, Dick & Betty

Stand by for news....

2008-08-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

We FINALLY have our first Oncology appointment this afternoon!! Hope to get our "plan of attack" and let you know. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers and concern! Love, Dick & Betty

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2008-08-12T10:03:00.000-07:00

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