We have so much to be thankful for this year. Craig is in remission and gets stronger every day. He looks like his old self.
Benjamin John Craig Saniuk was born on November 23, 2009, in Omaha, NE. He weighed 7# 9oz and was 20.5" long. Parents and baby are doing well.
We are delighted to have a grandson and he is adorable. Craig, Neil, Carl and I went to Omaha over Thanksgiving weekend and got to spoil him. Craig and I think Ben looks like Anne when she was a baby and Craig's folks think he looks like Craig as a baby.
Anne, Scott, and Ben will be here over Christmas. We're looking forward to a wonderful holiday. This year is much different than last year. Then Craig had shingles and went into the hospital for 5 days the day after Christmas. Gail
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Good News/last couple of weekends
This is really Craig--as Gail said, we had good news at my three month checkup--still cancer free and in remission. The last couple of weekends we have been visiting our kids in South Dakota and in Nebraska. Anne's baby is due in late November. Her husband Scott and roommate are trying to sell their house so Anne and Scott can move either to a house of their own or a rental for a while. Neil is doing well as a civil engineer in Rapid City, SD. All is well--I am working full days and we have many blessings for which to be thankful.
Good news at 3 month check-up
Craig had a 3 month check-up with the Pierre oncologist. All tests were in the normal range and there was no sign of cancer! He is still in remission. Next check-up is in 3 months.
A few weeks ago, we got a news letter from the transplant house about the July golf tournament and picnic to honor survivors. The young woman from Italy who needed a double lung transplant had the transplant on April 23. In July, she was doing exceptionally well. In fact, at the picnic she was dancing with her friend from New York who was doing well. I was not sure the friend from New York would survive after hearing we met and I heard about all his complications after a second transplant.
The woman needing a liver transplant who had come to the transplant house in January finally received one. She also is doing well. God is good.
Gail
A few weeks ago, we got a news letter from the transplant house about the July golf tournament and picnic to honor survivors. The young woman from Italy who needed a double lung transplant had the transplant on April 23. In July, she was doing exceptionally well. In fact, at the picnic she was dancing with her friend from New York who was doing well. I was not sure the friend from New York would survive after hearing we met and I heard about all his complications after a second transplant.
The woman needing a liver transplant who had come to the transplant house in January finally received one. She also is doing well. God is good.
Gail
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Carl's birthday
Last week Craig and I wrote a long entry that disappeared. This time the post will be shorter.
Carl will be 24 on Monday. Neil is home for a day to celebrate. Craig, Carl and I will meet Anne halfway between Pierre and Omaha for a day together. Scott can't get away to join us. Anne and Neil have not missed seeing Carl on his birthday since he came home from the hospital.
Craig continues to improve every day. He looks like his old self, but considerably thinner. His color is good and he goes to the office every day. He's back to making his odd-ball jokes. Our lives are settling back into a routine.
Craig still goes in for his monthly IV infusion to strengthen his bones here in Pierre. All his 3 month checks ups will be done here unless there is a problem and he'll go back to Mayo. Otherwise, he won't go to Mayo until June 2010. Then he can start his baby shots since his immunity was wiped out. I hope he won't be as fussy as the kids were when they got them.
Craig often says things have gone well for him this year except for the initial diagnosis. Now we pray for a lengthy remission.
We'll try to post a note monthly now. Gail
Carl will be 24 on Monday. Neil is home for a day to celebrate. Craig, Carl and I will meet Anne halfway between Pierre and Omaha for a day together. Scott can't get away to join us. Anne and Neil have not missed seeing Carl on his birthday since he came home from the hospital.
Craig continues to improve every day. He looks like his old self, but considerably thinner. His color is good and he goes to the office every day. He's back to making his odd-ball jokes. Our lives are settling back into a routine.
Craig still goes in for his monthly IV infusion to strengthen his bones here in Pierre. All his 3 month checks ups will be done here unless there is a problem and he'll go back to Mayo. Otherwise, he won't go to Mayo until June 2010. Then he can start his baby shots since his immunity was wiped out. I hope he won't be as fussy as the kids were when they got them.
Craig often says things have gone well for him this year except for the initial diagnosis. Now we pray for a lengthy remission.
We'll try to post a note monthly now. Gail
Friday, September 11, 2009
Friday, August 21, 2009
From Omaha to DeSmet and to work
It's been 2 weeks since the Omaha reception for Anne and Scott and what turned out to be a Carlson family reunion. We had a great time there!
The third Sunday in August is the annual Eichstadt picnic in Wolsey. Last year, we were reading the Little House on the Prairie books with Carl. We decided to combine a trip to DeSmet with the reunion. DeSmet is 45 miles east of Wolsey. We stayed at a bed and breakfast 2 doors east of the Ingalls house. Carl wanted to go back before the next picnic in a year.
We made the reservations last August and never expected a year with all the changes we've had. We did finish reading all the books in the series, too.
We enjoyed a relaxing weekend seeing homestead sites of the Ingalls and Wilders and spending time in the hot tub. Rain curtailed some of our plans, so there will be more to see next Aug. The library there has 5 original Harvey Dunn paintings.
Once again, the picnic tables were full of delicious foods, especially desserts. Not as many Eichstadts attended this year as in the past, but it was good to see everyone there. Two of Craig's uncles and an aunt are in the Huron Nursing Home. Craig's 90 year old Aunt Dorothy goes to the nursing home every day to visit her younger brothers and sister in law. She is finally showing her age and looks 80 instead of 75. She lives in her home and drives.
Carl had a day off today and went to the 1880 Town 22 miles west Murdo, SD with friends from the Pit Crew for lunch and a tour. He told us so much about his day and brought back a "smash penny" for his collection.
This weekend we're relaxing and won't venture farther than the mall or Wal-mart. Craig, Gail & Carl
Hi, this is Craig. I am feeling better today and the last two or three days. I still get a nap in the morning. I think I am recovering well.
Today I had a return visit with my regular internist to get a checkup after taking another antibiotic for the last ten days. The Dr. confirmed that the rattle in my lungs had cleared, and I have no sore throat or ear infections. He thinks I am doing well on my pain medication and wants to alternate regular visits to his office with those to my oncologist.
The next oncologist visit is in October, so the next internist visit is scheduled for late November. It can be changed if it conflicts with the birth of the baby!
We will all be interested to see how I am doing on remission when I visit the oncologist in October. I feel fine, so I hope that means I will be fine and will remain in remission for another three months. Everything is day to day, week to week, month to month, year to year, and the more of each the better!
--Craig
The third Sunday in August is the annual Eichstadt picnic in Wolsey. Last year, we were reading the Little House on the Prairie books with Carl. We decided to combine a trip to DeSmet with the reunion. DeSmet is 45 miles east of Wolsey. We stayed at a bed and breakfast 2 doors east of the Ingalls house. Carl wanted to go back before the next picnic in a year.
We made the reservations last August and never expected a year with all the changes we've had. We did finish reading all the books in the series, too.
We enjoyed a relaxing weekend seeing homestead sites of the Ingalls and Wilders and spending time in the hot tub. Rain curtailed some of our plans, so there will be more to see next Aug. The library there has 5 original Harvey Dunn paintings.
Once again, the picnic tables were full of delicious foods, especially desserts. Not as many Eichstadts attended this year as in the past, but it was good to see everyone there. Two of Craig's uncles and an aunt are in the Huron Nursing Home. Craig's 90 year old Aunt Dorothy goes to the nursing home every day to visit her younger brothers and sister in law. She is finally showing her age and looks 80 instead of 75. She lives in her home and drives.
Carl had a day off today and went to the 1880 Town 22 miles west Murdo, SD with friends from the Pit Crew for lunch and a tour. He told us so much about his day and brought back a "smash penny" for his collection.
This weekend we're relaxing and won't venture farther than the mall or Wal-mart. Craig, Gail & Carl
Hi, this is Craig. I am feeling better today and the last two or three days. I still get a nap in the morning. I think I am recovering well.
Today I had a return visit with my regular internist to get a checkup after taking another antibiotic for the last ten days. The Dr. confirmed that the rattle in my lungs had cleared, and I have no sore throat or ear infections. He thinks I am doing well on my pain medication and wants to alternate regular visits to his office with those to my oncologist.
The next oncologist visit is in October, so the next internist visit is scheduled for late November. It can be changed if it conflicts with the birth of the baby!
We will all be interested to see how I am doing on remission when I visit the oncologist in October. I feel fine, so I hope that means I will be fine and will remain in remission for another three months. Everything is day to day, week to week, month to month, year to year, and the more of each the better!
--Craig
Monday, August 10, 2009
Omaha reception
Gail from here:
Last Friday (August 7) Craig, Neil, Carl and I drove to Omaha for Anne and Scott's reception. It was a wonderful and fun evening. Many members of Scott's extended family were there. Except for the heat and high humidity, it was perfect. The food and company were great. The reception area at the Fontenelle Forest Nature Preserve was beautifully decorated. Anne was a radiant bride and Scott was just as handsome as on June 14.
Craig from here:
From South Dakota we had Phil & Loris Meeder and our family (Craig & Gail, Anne & Scott [from Omaha, obviously, but still a part of our family!!], Neil and Carl) as well as Lorine, Grandma Jean's sister. Tom and Esther Harmon from Pierre also came down, which was a big surprise. From Missouri we had Pam and Gloria Carlson, Gail's cousin and aunt respectively, and Gloria's brother Tom Jones. We had Linda, John and their two sons Paul and Alan from Bellevue, Nebraska, and Grandma Jean, Gail's sister Karen Smith and Karen's daughter Mikara from Akron, Iowa. Karen's son Wesley was not able to make the reception, but was there for Grandma Jean's birthday party the next day, as were all the rest of the grandchildren, and Scott, Anne's husband, see below for details of the party for Grandma Jean.
Gail from here:
Saturday noon, all of my small extended family had a surprise 80th birthday party for my mother, Jean. Even though her birthday isn't until 11.5.09, we decided to celebrate when we were all together. We all enjoyed our time together and took many family pictures.
My sister and her husband, John, took care of most of the arrangements. They both admitted they lied a lot, but Mom didn't suspect anything. We recognized Craig's 58th birthday on Aug. 1 and Linda and John's last March.
Craig from here:
We had a big celebration at our church yesterday. It is Pastor Urbach's 65th birthday and the 35th anniversary of his coming to Pierre. There were two church services as usual, but with a reception in between. Then there was a remembrance service at 4:00 pm and brats and burgers after that, together with pot luck on salads and desserts. We had a good time. We have been in this pastor's congregation for about 27 years, and he has baptised two of the kids (Carl and Anne.) He has confirmed all three, and now has married Anne. And he has been there for us during our tough times. We have been glad to have him in Pierre.
It was a quick trip to Omaha and back. We left Friday about 10:00 am and we were back home Saturday by about 9:00 pm. I was feeling a little out of sorts, so I went to the Dr. this afternoon. I had some congestion on the lungs and perhaps a slight bacterial infection. I am tired but still feel pretty good. I worked for about half a day today, but took a longer nap than usual in the morning.
Last Friday (August 7) Craig, Neil, Carl and I drove to Omaha for Anne and Scott's reception. It was a wonderful and fun evening. Many members of Scott's extended family were there. Except for the heat and high humidity, it was perfect. The food and company were great. The reception area at the Fontenelle Forest Nature Preserve was beautifully decorated. Anne was a radiant bride and Scott was just as handsome as on June 14.
Craig from here:
From South Dakota we had Phil & Loris Meeder and our family (Craig & Gail, Anne & Scott [from Omaha, obviously, but still a part of our family!!], Neil and Carl) as well as Lorine, Grandma Jean's sister. Tom and Esther Harmon from Pierre also came down, which was a big surprise. From Missouri we had Pam and Gloria Carlson, Gail's cousin and aunt respectively, and Gloria's brother Tom Jones. We had Linda, John and their two sons Paul and Alan from Bellevue, Nebraska, and Grandma Jean, Gail's sister Karen Smith and Karen's daughter Mikara from Akron, Iowa. Karen's son Wesley was not able to make the reception, but was there for Grandma Jean's birthday party the next day, as were all the rest of the grandchildren, and Scott, Anne's husband, see below for details of the party for Grandma Jean.
Gail from here:
Saturday noon, all of my small extended family had a surprise 80th birthday party for my mother, Jean. Even though her birthday isn't until 11.5.09, we decided to celebrate when we were all together. We all enjoyed our time together and took many family pictures.
My sister and her husband, John, took care of most of the arrangements. They both admitted they lied a lot, but Mom didn't suspect anything. We recognized Craig's 58th birthday on Aug. 1 and Linda and John's last March.
Craig from here:
We had a big celebration at our church yesterday. It is Pastor Urbach's 65th birthday and the 35th anniversary of his coming to Pierre. There were two church services as usual, but with a reception in between. Then there was a remembrance service at 4:00 pm and brats and burgers after that, together with pot luck on salads and desserts. We had a good time. We have been in this pastor's congregation for about 27 years, and he has baptised two of the kids (Carl and Anne.) He has confirmed all three, and now has married Anne. And he has been there for us during our tough times. We have been glad to have him in Pierre.
It was a quick trip to Omaha and back. We left Friday about 10:00 am and we were back home Saturday by about 9:00 pm. I was feeling a little out of sorts, so I went to the Dr. this afternoon. I had some congestion on the lungs and perhaps a slight bacterial infection. I am tired but still feel pretty good. I worked for about half a day today, but took a longer nap than usual in the morning.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
July 30, 2009 Craig is working every day
Craig is working every day and slowly is improving. We went out to see the orthopedic surgeon in Rapid City who first considered myeloma to get a second opinion on the Mayo Clinic's assessment of Craig's back. They were in agreement. No more vertebralplasties are needed.
We stayed with Neil, but didn't get to see much of him. We arrived late in the evening and the appointment went longer than expected and we didn't have lunch with him.
We're looking forward to our trip to Omaha next week for Anne and Scott's Omaha reception. It will be a fast trip since Neil will drive to Pierre on 8.6.09. We'll all drive to Omaha on the 7th and return on the 8th so Neil won't have to drive from Omaha to Rapid in one day. It will be good to meet more of Scott's family. Gail
Saturday, July 18, 2009
July 18, 2009, a cool Saturday for July
There are 2 weeks to summarize. Last Saturday, Carl and family were invited to Tim Bieser's wedding. Tim is a classmate of Carl's and they were the only 2 boys from their Cub Scout pack to stay in scouts throughout high school. The bride was radiant and the groom was beaming.
Craig has been in the office every day for a couple weeks. He gets a little stronger every day. Last week, he met with the Avera oncologist who now lives in Pierre. Craig will have his 3 month checks here and infusions of bone strengthener in Pierre. We're glad to eliminate trips to Sioux Falls. Gail
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Wedding pictures from June 14, 2009. Craig continues to improve daily.
Pictures of Anne and Scott Saniuk's wedding can be found at:
http://www.thestudio-pierre.com/
Click on Full Screen
Click on Client Photos
Click on the white down arrows
Click on Client gallery
At the bottom is Weddings/ Engagements, click on this
Sometime it will ask for your email address
Click on Scott and Anne
We think all the pictures are wonderful. The bride was radiant and the groom was handsome.
We have not been posting as often as promised. Over the 4th of July weekend, we drove out to the Black Hills and visited Neil. We toured the Hills and saw many familiar sights. The fireworks in Rapid City were exciting on the 4th.
Craig is doing better every day. Everything from his home office has been taken
back. There's room to move around and we can see the floor again. Gail
http://www.thestudio-pierre.com/
Click on Full Screen
Click on Client Photos
Click on the white down arrows
Click on Client gallery
At the bottom is Weddings/ Engagements, click on this
Sometime it will ask for your email address
Click on Scott and Anne
We think all the pictures are wonderful. The bride was radiant and the groom was handsome.
We have not been posting as often as promised. Over the 4th of July weekend, we drove out to the Black Hills and visited Neil. We toured the Hills and saw many familiar sights. The fireworks in Rapid City were exciting on the 4th.
Craig is doing better every day. Everything from his home office has been taken
back. There's room to move around and we can see the floor again. Gail
Sunday, June 28, 2009
More good news, 6.28. 2009
Late in the week, staff from Mayo called and Craig's bone marrow biopsy results looked great.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Good news from the Mayo Clinic, June 23, 2009
Last Saturday, Craig, Carl and I headed to to see family. We stopped in Huron to see Craig's father in the hospital. He had some complications from his last surgery, but it is resolved. He went home Monday.
We traveled to Hurley for the bi-annual Rundell reunion on my mother's side of the family. We arrived just as the clean up started. A smaller reunion of just Eli Rundell descendants was on Sunday. We stayed for that and saw many familiar relatives and met some of the younger generation attending for the first time. My father and Uncle Kenneth both passed away since the 2007 reunion.
Carl and my mother left for Akron and Craig and I headed to Rochester. We stayed at the transplant house and that made trip easier knowing we were headed to our "house" away from home. Craig had 2 full days of tests, consults, and exams.
The great news is there is no detectable sign of cancer in the blood, bone marrow, and any lesions are healed or healing. Craig will have some lasting side effects from the chemotherapy, but not anything as horrible as the disease. He doesn't have any new compression fractures and didn't need any more vertebralplasties. One of the readings from his blood work is usually associated with a longer than average remission.
He's had some lower back pain and will have a couple steroid injections before we leave tomorrow. This is an outpatient procedure and Craig should have no discomfort traveling. We'll need to pick up Carl from Akron on Wednesday and then head back to Pierre on Thursday.
Now it's time for bed. We have many things to be thankful for tonight in our prayers. Gail and Craig
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009--from Craig:
Anne, our daughter, and Scott Saniuk were married Sunday, June 14, 2009, at Faith Lutheran Church in Pierre. It was a small, family only wedding with about 35 guests, all of them family. It was a really great wedding, certainly the best one I have been to since mine and Gail's. (Ours was still better--sorry Anne and Scott!!) Anne had the most beautiful gown I have ever seen. I walked her down the aisle without stepping on her long train. She was beautiful and radiant, the way a bride should be. Everyone was happy. Gail supervised all the decorating of both the church and the old St. Charles Hotel, where we had the dinner/reception. There will be an additional larger reception at Bellevue, NE, Scott's home town, on August 7. We will be there and enjoy that as well. It was a wonderful wedding and even the weather cooperated. This was the first time we met Scott's family, and they are great people. They accepted Anne and treated her as one of their own the minute she arrived in Omaha a couple of years ago. We were grateful for that, as she knew very few people there when she went there and they were exceptionally kind to her.
As to my health, I am getting along OK, but I still get tired. I am going back to work basically for half days (or less) and I am still getting a 2 hour or so nap in addition to my night time sleep. We will find out more, as my follow-up in Rochester is scheduled for next week, the 22nd and 23rd of June. We will try to post on that visit as soon as we hear back from the Doctors there.
Gail also has a family reunion this weekend, so we will stop in there for a short time on the way to Rochester for my checkup.
That is about all the news for now. We are very happy that Anne and Scott are married. They were able to go on a short trip to Colorado, but are back home (in Omaha) tonight. They both have to work tomorrow. Such is life, but at least they got in a short trip to celebrate their marriage.
See everyone here later!!
Craig
Anne, our daughter, and Scott Saniuk were married Sunday, June 14, 2009, at Faith Lutheran Church in Pierre. It was a small, family only wedding with about 35 guests, all of them family. It was a really great wedding, certainly the best one I have been to since mine and Gail's. (Ours was still better--sorry Anne and Scott!!) Anne had the most beautiful gown I have ever seen. I walked her down the aisle without stepping on her long train. She was beautiful and radiant, the way a bride should be. Everyone was happy. Gail supervised all the decorating of both the church and the old St. Charles Hotel, where we had the dinner/reception. There will be an additional larger reception at Bellevue, NE, Scott's home town, on August 7. We will be there and enjoy that as well. It was a wonderful wedding and even the weather cooperated. This was the first time we met Scott's family, and they are great people. They accepted Anne and treated her as one of their own the minute she arrived in Omaha a couple of years ago. We were grateful for that, as she knew very few people there when she went there and they were exceptionally kind to her.
As to my health, I am getting along OK, but I still get tired. I am going back to work basically for half days (or less) and I am still getting a 2 hour or so nap in addition to my night time sleep. We will find out more, as my follow-up in Rochester is scheduled for next week, the 22nd and 23rd of June. We will try to post on that visit as soon as we hear back from the Doctors there.
Gail also has a family reunion this weekend, so we will stop in there for a short time on the way to Rochester for my checkup.
That is about all the news for now. We are very happy that Anne and Scott are married. They were able to go on a short trip to Colorado, but are back home (in Omaha) tonight. They both have to work tomorrow. Such is life, but at least they got in a short trip to celebrate their marriage.
See everyone here later!!
Craig
Sunday, June 7, 2009
6.7.09
Craig is improving a little each day, but still gets tired easily.
We're busy with wedding preparations and are looking forward to having many family members here.
My double uncle, Kenneth, died last week. He was 92 and retired from farming when he was 89. His funeral is tomorrow in SE South Dakota, but we are not able to attend. We saw him last fall and had a good time visiting. Gail
We're busy with wedding preparations and are looking forward to having many family members here.
My double uncle, Kenneth, died last week. He was 92 and retired from farming when he was 89. His funeral is tomorrow in SE South Dakota, but we are not able to attend. We saw him last fall and had a good time visiting. Gail
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Craig is finally feeling a little better each day. He still needs to be careful not to overdo. He's been at the office a few times this week.
Craig's dad is healing and eating solid food. He has improved greatly since the last post and may go home early next week.
We are continuing to work on preparing for Anne and Scott's wedding. Today Craig and Carl went down to be fitted for a tux.
Monday is our 34th anniversary. We don't have any big plans to celebrate. We'll wait for 35 or 40 years.
I'll try to post once a week over the weekend. Gail
Friday, May 22, 2009
Only good news
Craig's father came through the surgery well. On Thursday, he moved from ICU into a regular hospital room. We plan on driving to Huron to see him this weekend.
Craig's week is much better than last week. He's feeling a little better every day and worked in the office several times.
Anne, our daughter, hopes both her dad and grandfather will feel wonderful on June 14. That's the day she and Scott Saniuk will be married in Pierre. Gail
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Mostly good news
Good news: Craig is feeling a little better each day and doing more. Today we attended church from start to finish. He hopes to get into the office for a few hours next week.
Today is graduation in Akron, Iowa, Pierre and Ft. Pierre. We're missing our niece's graduation in Iowa, but that is a long trip for Craig. Yesterday we went to 3 parties for 4 graduates, including 2 of my day care children from the 1990's. Craig was tired at the end, but enjoyed getting out and talking to many people. I enjoyed not cooking. Carl enjoyed the desserts.
Wonderful news: Anne and Scott Saniuk will be married June 14 in Pierre. It will be a small wedding with family only and there will be a reception in Omaha later. Anne was home last week and we started finalizing plans.
Serious news: Craig's father is having emergency surgery today for a bowel obstruction. We pray for his healing. It's only been days since he was released from the hospital with pneumonia. Gail
Friday, May 8, 2009
May 8 2009 Craig is slowly feeling better and doing more
Craig's doctor took him off a couple medications on April 30 when the fluids didn't end his lightheadedness. This helped and Craig is slowly improving.
Sunday we went to church for the groundbreaking of the new family life center between services. He was happy to see everyone and was everyone was glad to see him. We were able to stay in church until the end of the sermon.
Yesterday I dropped him off at his office and he worked for 90 minutes. Today he was starting lunch when I got home. Carl made banana bread and Craig helped him bake it. Tonight he's been getting up to answer the phone.
Carl's banana bread was once again fabulous. Craig can take some to his office when he works a little next week.
We're going to tour the historic Hyde building on Mother's Day. Craig wants to go and is looking forward to it. There's a light at the end of the tunnel and it's not a train.
May 8, 2009 Good day for Craig
OnApril 30, Craig was stil having the same light-headedness and went back to the doctor. It appeared to be a medication side effects. He was taken off 2 medications and has slowly been improving.
Yesterday, I drove Craig to the office and worked about 90 minutes. Today he had started lunch when I got home and has been getting up to answer the phone. These are small, but encouraging improvements for him.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
4.28.09 & 4.28.09, Bumps in the road to ambulatory care
Craig still wasn't feeling well onTuesday, so he went to see Dr. Meyer. Craig was dehydrated and went to ambulatory care, where chemotherapy is done, for a liter of fluid through his port. He had perked up by evening.
This morning he felt horrible so we checked his standing and sitting blood pressure and pulse. There a was difference between the pressures and pulse was high. Back to ambulatory care for 2 liters. After the fill-up, Craig actually smiled. He seems OK tonight.
This morning he felt horrible so we checked his standing and sitting blood pressure and pulse. There a was difference between the pressures and pulse was high. Back to ambulatory care for 2 liters. After the fill-up, Craig actually smiled. He seems OK tonight.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
4.26.09, Day 23. There's still a long recovery ahead.
It's good to be home and getting back into our normal routine. We're still working on getting thank you notes and a Christmas letter out.
Carl wondered when we were going to Rochester in April. He was happy to hear we won't go back until late June.
Craig's appetite is improving, but he still does not feel well. It will take some time for him to get back to the same level he was before going to Rochester.
We received a forwarded email and this was part of it:
FRIENDS: will visit you in the hospital when you're sick
SOUTH DAKOTA FRIENDS: will cut your grass and clean your house then come spend the night with you in the hospital and cook for you when you come home
We found out this is true. Craig and Gail
Carl wondered when we were going to Rochester in April. He was happy to hear we won't go back until late June.
Craig's appetite is improving, but he still does not feel well. It will take some time for him to get back to the same level he was before going to Rochester.
We received a forwarded email and this was part of it:
FRIENDS: will visit you in the hospital when you're sick
SOUTH DAKOTA FRIENDS: will cut your grass and clean your house then come spend the night with you in the hospital and cook for you when you come home
We found out this is true. Craig and Gail
Friday, April 24, 2009
Day 21, 4.24.09. There's no place like home.
Wednesday morning Craig had his exit visit with his doctor and nurse coordinator. Thursday morning Craig had an opthamalogy consult. The doctor told Craig the same thing Dr. Beemer in Pierre told him. We finished packing the car and headed west.
We met my sisters, brother in law, mother and Carl in Sioux Falls. We loaded Carl's things in the car and headed home to Pierre. Tonight Carl said that mom was home to stay with him.
Craig is tired tonight. Harmons brought a delicous dinner over. Craig ate the most he has since the transplant. Bobbi from Craig's office dropped off a care basket and we are still enjoying the care basket Alan sent to Rochester.
Craig needs to have blood work done next week and we don't have to return to Mayo until late June.
We truly appreciate all the help and prayers. Gail
We met my sisters, brother in law, mother and Carl in Sioux Falls. We loaded Carl's things in the car and headed home to Pierre. Tonight Carl said that mom was home to stay with him.
Craig is tired tonight. Harmons brought a delicous dinner over. Craig ate the most he has since the transplant. Bobbi from Craig's office dropped off a care basket and we are still enjoying the care basket Alan sent to Rochester.
Craig needs to have blood work done next week and we don't have to return to Mayo until late June.
We truly appreciate all the help and prayers. Gail
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Continuation of Day 21.
There was a message the internet connection was lost, so I published quickly.
Back to Craig's cousin Margaret Eichstadt Affeldt. I had met her mother Hertha and immediately recognized Margaret because she looked just like her mother.
We had some excitement tonight. Someone burned dinner and set off the fire alarms. It never hurts to have a drill the the worst consequence is that it took some time to get the elevator working again.
Day 18, 4.21.09. Unless there's an unexpected bump in the road, Craig will be released Thursday morning.!
Good news is Craig's blood counts soared today. White blood cells and platelets are in the low normal range. His hemoglobin isn't normal and Craig is fatigued and has nausea yet. It's going to take some time to recover from the chemo and for Craig to back to his precancer level of energy.
Craig met one of his distant cousins for the first time today. She and her husband live 25 miles from here. She left Wolsey before Craig was born.
Craig met one of his distant cousins for the first time today. She and her husband live 25 miles from here. She left Wolsey before Craig was born.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Day 17, 4.20.09, Counts and nausea are increasing
Rain has fallen here on and off since Saturday afternoon. It's cold and windy, but better than snow.
It seems everything can't improve at one time for Craig. Nausea has bothered him today and he's decided a 12 hour IV medication is helping. That's no problem since he's still going in to the clinic twice a day for a check up and antibiotic.
The good news tonight is that his blood counts have increased dramatically since yesterday.
No doctor has even hinted at a time he can be released. We're optimistically packing up a few things from the room and eating the food in the pantry and refrigerator.
Kay McClain from Craig's office surprised us with a visit. She brought her son here for tests and they were on their way out of town. It was good to see a familar face and so thoughtful of her to stop.
We've had a few visitors during out stay. Craig's cousin Kathy and her husband Rich stopped on their way home to Wisconsin. The minister, vicar, and lay minister from Trinity Lutheran have been here several times.
There is a rapid turn over of people staying here. It's good they are well enough to go home, but we miss our new friends.
The people waiting for organs stay here the longest. It's difficult to watch their physical condition slide downhill. This has reinforced our believe in the importance of donating organs. The positive aspect is that as soon as they receive the organs, their physical condition improves dramatically and quickly.
It seems everything can't improve at one time for Craig. Nausea has bothered him today and he's decided a 12 hour IV medication is helping. That's no problem since he's still going in to the clinic twice a day for a check up and antibiotic.
The good news tonight is that his blood counts have increased dramatically since yesterday.
No doctor has even hinted at a time he can be released. We're optimistically packing up a few things from the room and eating the food in the pantry and refrigerator.
Kay McClain from Craig's office surprised us with a visit. She brought her son here for tests and they were on their way out of town. It was good to see a familar face and so thoughtful of her to stop.
We've had a few visitors during out stay. Craig's cousin Kathy and her husband Rich stopped on their way home to Wisconsin. The minister, vicar, and lay minister from Trinity Lutheran have been here several times.
There is a rapid turn over of people staying here. It's good they are well enough to go home, but we miss our new friends.
The people waiting for organs stay here the longest. It's difficult to watch their physical condition slide downhill. This has reinforced our believe in the importance of donating organs. The positive aspect is that as soon as they receive the organs, their physical condition improves dramatically and quickly.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Day 16. 4.19.09. Craig has the "neutrophil glow."
Craig's hemoglobin, platelet, and white blood cell counts continue to steadily increase. This is good. Today Dr. Lacy said Craig's face looked rosier, which is a sign of engraftment for neutrophils. Neutrophils are one of the 3 kinds of white blood cells.
When neutrophil counts are over 500 for 2 days in a row, serious consideration can be given to sending a patient home. Craig's are at 150. We hope he may be released at the end of the week, but there are no guarantees. We'd like to go home tomorrow.
Craig's days are gradually improving, but he has his good and not so good times of the day. Evenings are more difficult. He still has to go into the clinic every evening at 8 pm for an antibiotic.
Craig's hair is thinning somewhat, but it looks fairly normal. This has caused some jealousy with female myeloma residents.
Craig is eating more every day, but I'm still eating more than him. This makes meal preparation easier. I don't have to worry about fixing elaborate, tasty meals. I just put food on the table and he eats some of it.
Yesterday and today it rained here. Rochester has had an open winter since January and the rain is needed. Gail
When neutrophil counts are over 500 for 2 days in a row, serious consideration can be given to sending a patient home. Craig's are at 150. We hope he may be released at the end of the week, but there are no guarantees. We'd like to go home tomorrow.
Craig's days are gradually improving, but he has his good and not so good times of the day. Evenings are more difficult. He still has to go into the clinic every evening at 8 pm for an antibiotic.
Craig's hair is thinning somewhat, but it looks fairly normal. This has caused some jealousy with female myeloma residents.
Craig is eating more every day, but I'm still eating more than him. This makes meal preparation easier. I don't have to worry about fixing elaborate, tasty meals. I just put food on the table and he eats some of it.
Yesterday and today it rained here. Rochester has had an open winter since January and the rain is needed. Gail
Day 15. 4.18.09. Neil and Carl left
When Neil and Carl left today it was very quiet and lonely. My mother and sister met them in Sioux Falls for lunch and took Carl to Akron. Neil headed west on I 90 and got to Rapid City in early evening.
After the clinic visit, Craig and I went shopping to get out of the house.
Craig mostly sat in the car while I bought groceries and looked at clothes. It was a a warm spring day. We both went into a bedding store and bought new sheets because Craig was tired of the white ones. Gail
After the clinic visit, Craig and I went shopping to get out of the house.
Craig mostly sat in the car while I bought groceries and looked at clothes. It was a a warm spring day. We both went into a bedding store and bought new sheets because Craig was tired of the white ones. Gail
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Day 12, 4.15.09, Another bump in the road
Craig had a restless night and his chest was rattling to the point of keeping Neil and me awake. He said he felt better, but we went to the 24 hour transplant unit at 6 am.
It doesn't appear he has pneumonia, but there is some infection. He got fluids and antibiotics by his catheter.
The good news is his counts are going up despite the infection. He remained an outpatient. Today at lunch he said food wasn't repulsive any more. He needs to get IV antibiotics twice a day.
Craig got a huge poster board get well card from the team members and appraisers at the state DI tournament. Also a huge structure and t shirt, bag and pins. That cheered us both up. Gail
It doesn't appear he has pneumonia, but there is some infection. He got fluids and antibiotics by his catheter.
The good news is his counts are going up despite the infection. He remained an outpatient. Today at lunch he said food wasn't repulsive any more. He needs to get IV antibiotics twice a day.
Craig got a huge poster board get well card from the team members and appraisers at the state DI tournament. Also a huge structure and t shirt, bag and pins. That cheered us both up. Gail
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
There are some typing errors in the blog. For example, she calls this a "fist attempt" to add a picture to the blog. While working with the computers has been frustrating at times, taking a fist to the computer has not been a solution we considered. Outside that, we have Neil's computer, which works much better.
Craig
Craig
Fist attempt to add a picture to the blog. Carl's prom as a junior.
I've been working on Neil's computer and went into his picture file. This is a nice one of Carl. It shows that inclusion in education is better than segregation.
Day 11, 4.14.09 Craig is out of the hospital
Craig is making his own platelets which the doctors say is a good sign. Usually the white blood cell count goes up first and then the platelet count, but we'll take any good news. He left the hospital this afternoon. He wishes he felt better, but that should improve as his counts go up.
It 's nice having Neil and Carl here. It will be pretty quiet when they leave.
Carl feels comfortable in the house now. A gentleman who received a new kidney a couple weeks ago usually plays his concertina in the evening. Carl hadn't seen one before.
Tonight Carl and I read in the library. The last book Carl and I read together was A Journey to the Center of the Earth. Grandma Carlson didn't especially like that one, so she picked the next one. Carl and I decided to put that book on hold and are reading Peter Pan. I'm ready to go back to Jules Verne. Gail
It 's nice having Neil and Carl here. It will be pretty quiet when they leave.
Carl feels comfortable in the house now. A gentleman who received a new kidney a couple weeks ago usually plays his concertina in the evening. Carl hadn't seen one before.
Tonight Carl and I read in the library. The last book Carl and I read together was A Journey to the Center of the Earth. Grandma Carlson didn't especially like that one, so she picked the next one. Carl and I decided to put that book on hold and are reading Peter Pan. I'm ready to go back to Jules Verne. Gail
Monday, April 13, 2009
Day 10, 4.13.09. Craig has improved since noon.
There still isn't a timeline for Craig to be released.
It's nice having Neil and Carl here. We visited him this morning and he seemed about the same. Carl and I left to eat lunch and Neil stayed.
I didn't get back to see Craig until dinner time and I could see he was feeling better since noon. There are some signs the cells might be engrafting.
We brought the laptop to the hospital tonight and found him watching the Twins game. Now Craig is working on Turbo Tax.
The three of us will leave when Craig takes a shower.
It's nice having Neil and Carl here. We visited him this morning and he seemed about the same. Carl and I left to eat lunch and Neil stayed.
I didn't get back to see Craig until dinner time and I could see he was feeling better since noon. There are some signs the cells might be engrafting.
We brought the laptop to the hospital tonight and found him watching the Twins game. Now Craig is working on Turbo Tax.
The three of us will leave when Craig takes a shower.
Easter Sunday
Craig's situation is basically the same. He doesn't feel well and his white blood cell count is low.
The doctor says he'll be in the hospital 2-3 more days.
Neil and Carl arrived last night for a late dinner. They took my mother to Sioux Falls and met my sisters and most of their immediate families for lunch. Mom headed back to Akron. It was nice she was able to help out.
We three came over to the hospital to see Craig. Neil and Craig think the hospital complex is quite impressive and the tranplant house is very nice. Gail
The doctor says he'll be in the hospital 2-3 more days.
Neil and Carl arrived last night for a late dinner. They took my mother to Sioux Falls and met my sisters and most of their immediate families for lunch. Mom headed back to Akron. It was nice she was able to help out.
We three came over to the hospital to see Craig. Neil and Craig think the hospital complex is quite impressive and the tranplant house is very nice. Gail
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Day 8, Almost Easter
Tonight Craig and I talked after I walked to the house from the hospital. He was able to drink a can of pop and milk and Instant Breakfast. This is an improvement from not wanting to think about food. He said he felt better than yesterday. I think he's better, too.
Neil, Carl and my mother will drive to Sioux Falls and have lunch with my sister Karen. Karen will take Mom back to Akron and the men will drive on to Rochester.
Neil, Carl and my mother will drive to Sioux Falls and have lunch with my sister Karen. Karen will take Mom back to Akron and the men will drive on to Rochester.
Day 8, 4.11.09
Today Craig sounds better. He's eating lots of Cheerios and milk. He's off the IVs, but we haven't heard any talk of release.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Day 6, 4.09.09. There's a light at the end of the tunnel and we hope it's not a train.
Craig looked better today and is getting enough calories and protein. He ordered a bag a potato chips, but didn't think he would eat any. They tasted good and he ate the entire bag. Empty calories are still calories and we've decided potato chips are a miracle food.
He does not feel well and his counts will probably drop more tomorrow. No one has said anything about him getting out on Friday. Today the head of Internal Medicine and a group of doctors came in to see him. Yesterday the doctor who saw him was wearing yellow rabbit ears and telling everyone Happy Easter. He wasn't the head of any department and didn't have anyone following him around.
Craig's primary doctor, Dr. Lacy, sees him at the beginning and end of treatment. During the treatment, there is a team of 13 doctors who only work with transplant patients and rotate seeing all the patients. Gail
He does not feel well and his counts will probably drop more tomorrow. No one has said anything about him getting out on Friday. Today the head of Internal Medicine and a group of doctors came in to see him. Yesterday the doctor who saw him was wearing yellow rabbit ears and telling everyone Happy Easter. He wasn't the head of any department and didn't have anyone following him around.
Craig's primary doctor, Dr. Lacy, sees him at the beginning and end of treatment. During the treatment, there is a team of 13 doctors who only work with transplant patients and rotate seeing all the patients. Gail
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Day 5, Bump in the road
Craig surprised us today. Keeping him hydrated is a challenge and we expected he would need more IV fluids today even though he's drinking more than the suggested amounts of fluids.
At his daily check-up, he stood to be weighed and passed out. Luckily, his nurse today was a man about Craig's size and he was able to catch him and lowered him to the floor. His doctor decided he needed to be in the hospital for continuous IV fluids and safety.
Today and tomorrow should be the worst days for Craig. When I went back to see him after dinner, the nurses thought he had perked up some. He might be there for several days. Gail
At his daily check-up, he stood to be weighed and passed out. Luckily, his nurse today was a man about Craig's size and he was able to catch him and lowered him to the floor. His doctor decided he needed to be in the hospital for continuous IV fluids and safety.
Today and tomorrow should be the worst days for Craig. When I went back to see him after dinner, the nurses thought he had perked up some. He might be there for several days. Gail
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Brief comments,
This is from Craig direct.
I have not contributed to this blog much, as I have had some difficulty with typing given some of my medications. This has been an experience I would wish on nobody, but at least there are valid and usually successful treatments, unlike the situation 10 to 12 years ago, when people mostly just died from this disease (multiple myeloma.)
The process is not fun, as I have to push water other liquids and foods. When you simply are not hungry for much of anything, you still have to eat. The more calories the better, and junk foods are just a good as really nutritious stuff. I have health care providers telling me, "Have another cookie, piece of pie, and so on. They are good for you! The nutritionist was delighted when she heard I ate 7 Girl Scout Cookies.
This is my life for the moment. I hope all is well with all of you, and that you are still praying for me, thinking of me and keeping up on my blog (!)
Craig
I have not contributed to this blog much, as I have had some difficulty with typing given some of my medications. This has been an experience I would wish on nobody, but at least there are valid and usually successful treatments, unlike the situation 10 to 12 years ago, when people mostly just died from this disease (multiple myeloma.)
The process is not fun, as I have to push water other liquids and foods. When you simply are not hungry for much of anything, you still have to eat. The more calories the better, and junk foods are just a good as really nutritious stuff. I have health care providers telling me, "Have another cookie, piece of pie, and so on. They are good for you! The nutritionist was delighted when she heard I ate 7 Girl Scout Cookies.
This is my life for the moment. I hope all is well with all of you, and that you are still praying for me, thinking of me and keeping up on my blog (!)
Craig
Day 4, Roller coaster day, 4.7.09
Good: Neil and Carl will drive here on Saturday. Neil will stay with Craig and Carl and I will go back to Pierre. Carl is ready to have one of us back home with him and I'm ready to spend time with Carl. It will be good for me to get back into the office.
Bad: There are 2 groups bringing in dinner in one week while Neil will be here. It's not fair he'll get those nights off from cooking.
Deleting 4 weeks of emails won't be fun. I intended to unsubscribe to Listserves and didn't get it done before I left.
Good: When I get back to Rochester and Carl is in Omaha with Anne, Craig will be feeling much better and can help me with dishes again. Gail
Bad: There are 2 groups bringing in dinner in one week while Neil will be here. It's not fair he'll get those nights off from cooking.
Deleting 4 weeks of emails won't be fun. I intended to unsubscribe to Listserves and didn't get it done before I left.
Good: When I get back to Rochester and Carl is in Omaha with Anne, Craig will be feeling much better and can help me with dishes again. Gail
Day 4, Roller coaster day, 4.7.09
Bad: Craig isn't feeling very well, hasn't since Saturday and he hasn't hit bottom yet. That will probably be tomorrow.
Good: When his white blood counts increase, there should be a dramatic improvement quickly.
Good: No inpatient stays and medical staff is being proactive with IV fluids to keep him as an outpatient. No infections yet.
Good: I haven't had to change the dressing on his catheter in 10 days. I'll talk nicely to his nurse tomorrow to see if she'll change it. It takes a nurse about 4 minutes to change one. I need to review the video, read the book and go through $20 of dressings and leave part of a sterile glove on the dressing to be successful. Earplugs would be helpful for both of us since Craig worries aloud when I work on the dressing and I say a few discouraging words.
Good: When his white blood counts increase, there should be a dramatic improvement quickly.
Good: No inpatient stays and medical staff is being proactive with IV fluids to keep him as an outpatient. No infections yet.
Good: I haven't had to change the dressing on his catheter in 10 days. I'll talk nicely to his nurse tomorrow to see if she'll change it. It takes a nurse about 4 minutes to change one. I need to review the video, read the book and go through $20 of dressings and leave part of a sterile glove on the dressing to be successful. Earplugs would be helpful for both of us since Craig worries aloud when I work on the dressing and I say a few discouraging words.
Day 4, Roller coaster day, 4.7.09
Bad: our laptop isn't working well even though I've run every cleaner and defrager on it. We keep losing the blog site. The computer in Pierre isn't working at all, so we'll have to rely on cell phones for communication with Carl and my mom.
Good: a group brought in soups, fruit, and cookies for dinner. The wild rice chicken soup was at the end when everyone's dish was full, so there was lots for Craig.
Good: a group brought in soups, fruit, and cookies for dinner. The wild rice chicken soup was at the end when everyone's dish was full, so there was lots for Craig.
Day 4, Roller coaster day, 4.7.09
Craig said this was a good and bad day. Breakfast and lunch were good when the food was on the table. The bad is his mask is suffocating at times and he doesn't feel like visiting with others at the house.
Good news is his calorie intake is high enough and he just needs to eat more protein. He needed another 2 liters of fluid, but his weight was up from yesterday
Good news is his calorie intake is high enough and he just needs to eat more protein. He needed another 2 liters of fluid, but his weight was up from yesterday
4.7.09, Day 4, Roller coaster
Craig said this was a roller coaster day. Some things were good and some were bad. Breakfast and lunch were good once the food was on the table. Craig needs to walk and I suggested he go to the kitchen and collect his breakfast. That wasn't good when he hadn't eaten. He did get cereal and then I made a banana pancake for potassium and lots of calories from butter and syrup.
Good news is the's getting enough
4.7.09, Day 4, Roller coaster
Craig said this was a roller coaster day. Some things were good and some were bad. Breakfast and lunch were
Monday, April 6, 2009
Day 2 & 3, 4.05.09; 4.06.09
Yesterday Craig and I attended church. Craig was uncomfortable and sweating with his mask, so we left early. Everything was OK at his daily checkup, but he didn't feel the best.
The remainder of the day we rested and snacked on foods Craig found appetizing. That's mostly cold foods, beverages, pudding, and jello.
Today Craig was a little dizzy and needed a liter of IV fluid at the daily check up. He felt better after that and was able to eat more. He's still losing weight, so he needs to get more high calorie foods he finds appealing.
We were at the clinic long enough I was able to attend a string and flute trio concert. It was sponsored by the widow of Meredith Wilson, the original music man.
The predicted 3-7" of snow missed Rochester completely. The sun is shining today, but the wind is cold. Gail
The remainder of the day we rested and snacked on foods Craig found appetizing. That's mostly cold foods, beverages, pudding, and jello.
Today Craig was a little dizzy and needed a liter of IV fluid at the daily check up. He felt better after that and was able to eat more. He's still losing weight, so he needs to get more high calorie foods he finds appealing.
We were at the clinic long enough I was able to attend a string and flute trio concert. It was sponsored by the widow of Meredith Wilson, the original music man.
The predicted 3-7" of snow missed Rochester completely. The sun is shining today, but the wind is cold. Gail
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Day 1, 4.4.09
Craig and I were both tired today. Yesterday's stay at the hospital was 12 hours instead of the expected 8.
Today we went to the clinic for Craig's daily appointment at 9:30 am. No big changes or problems.
A volunteer from Trinity Lutheran Church brought over a couple of hot dishes for us. We really appreciate the food and the support from the church.
This afternoon we slept.
Snow is predicted for overnight and into Monday. We hope to attend church at 8 am and then go to the clinic. The rest of the day is unscheduled. Gail
Today we went to the clinic for Craig's daily appointment at 9:30 am. No big changes or problems.
A volunteer from Trinity Lutheran Church brought over a couple of hot dishes for us. We really appreciate the food and the support from the church.
This afternoon we slept.
Snow is predicted for overnight and into Monday. We hope to attend church at 8 am and then go to the clinic. The rest of the day is unscheduled. Gail
Friday, April 3, 2009
Transplant is completed. Now we wait for engraftment.
Craig received 11 bags of his own stem cells in about an hour. I watched as the nurses triple checked the name on the bags. One bag was thawed in a water bath similar to a double boiled, transferred to a syringe, and the contents were slowly pushed into his central line catheter. This was easy compared to the weeks of tests and collection.
Now he's feeling good and napping. He was given anti-nausea medicine, including Benedryl. That made him sleepy, but it has worn off now.
We will be able to leave about 4:30 pm when his IV bag is empty. He needs lots of fluids to help eliminate the preservative from his system. It is exhaled and there is a smell of creamed corn. This might last a couple days. He also needs lots of calories and to walk as much as he can to prevent pneumonia.
I'm ready for a walk in the clinic and a cup of coffee. Gail
Now he's feeling good and napping. He was given anti-nausea medicine, including Benedryl. That made him sleepy, but it has worn off now.
We will be able to leave about 4:30 pm when his IV bag is empty. He needs lots of fluids to help eliminate the preservative from his system. It is exhaled and there is a smell of creamed corn. This might last a couple days. He also needs lots of calories and to walk as much as he can to prevent pneumonia.
I'm ready for a walk in the clinic and a cup of coffee. Gail
Day Zero Transplant Day
Craig and I were up at 4 am to arrive at Unit 94 by 5:30 am. Craig's started on 4 hours of IV fluid before the transplant.
Yesterday's chemo did not produce any ill effects. Craig does not like wearing his mask, so he stays in the room quite a bit. He doesn't have to wear it there.
Gail
Yesterday's chemo did not produce any ill effects. Craig does not like wearing his mask, so he stays in the room quite a bit. He doesn't have to wear it there.
Gail
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Day -2, chemotherapy and the time to start eating as much as possible
This was another busy day. We bought groceries for chemotherapy effects this morning while Wal-mart wasn't busy.
After these were stored in the transplant house, we went to the clinic for the first day of "killer chemo" of Craig's bone marrow and also picked up new medications. Craig will be on penicillin for the next year.
The infusion through Craig's central venous catheter took an hour. He needed his mouth cold for the hour. Why we don't know. He was forced to eat ice cream, ice cream bars, and ice chips. This will be repeated tomorrow, Day -1.
Friday, Day 0, we need to be at the hospital at 5:30 am for 8 hours of infusion of cells. The first 4 hours are for IV fluids and medication to overcome the side effects of the preservative in the frozen stem cells. Next, 22 bags of stem cells will be thawed in a water bath and infused through the central catheter. Then more IV fluids will finish off the day.
Now is the time Craig needs to eat high calorie foods. This is completely different than the way he's eaten for years. Later, it will take major effort for him to get 1000 calories per day. It made shopping today different from usual. He was able to indulge his taste buds and will be having whipping cream on his cereal and in his tea. He's looking forward to Culver's 850 calorie chocolate shakes and I'm expecting to gain weight from the change in diet.
For the remainder of Craig's stay, he will be checked once a day at Unit 94, the transplant in and outpatient wing. We hope his regular appointment won't be at 6:30 am.
The chemo side effects won't hit for about a week. Craig is wearing a filtration mask for about 3 weeks except for when in our room, showering, sleeping, or eating. We're washing hands often and carry hand sanitizer.
If he needs to be hospitalized because of infection, it will likely be around Day 7 to 10 when his white blood cell count is about 500.
If all goes well, we may get to come home the end of April.
It sounds like all is going well at home for Carl. Craig's parents stayed with him for 2 weeks. Jean Carlson, my mom, is with Carl now for a couple weeks. Carl has been able to follow his regular schedule except for missing a couple days of work due to a very sore throat.
When we talk to him, he sounds happy. Mom said today he asked if his mother was ever going to come home. When we told him about the stay in Rochester, he said we couldn't go and we had to stay home with him. As the time got closer to go, he said he wished we would stay home. But when we said good by at the Special Olympics state tournament, he was fine and happy to be with his friends on the team.
Gail
After these were stored in the transplant house, we went to the clinic for the first day of "killer chemo" of Craig's bone marrow and also picked up new medications. Craig will be on penicillin for the next year.
The infusion through Craig's central venous catheter took an hour. He needed his mouth cold for the hour. Why we don't know. He was forced to eat ice cream, ice cream bars, and ice chips. This will be repeated tomorrow, Day -1.
Friday, Day 0, we need to be at the hospital at 5:30 am for 8 hours of infusion of cells. The first 4 hours are for IV fluids and medication to overcome the side effects of the preservative in the frozen stem cells. Next, 22 bags of stem cells will be thawed in a water bath and infused through the central catheter. Then more IV fluids will finish off the day.
Now is the time Craig needs to eat high calorie foods. This is completely different than the way he's eaten for years. Later, it will take major effort for him to get 1000 calories per day. It made shopping today different from usual. He was able to indulge his taste buds and will be having whipping cream on his cereal and in his tea. He's looking forward to Culver's 850 calorie chocolate shakes and I'm expecting to gain weight from the change in diet.
For the remainder of Craig's stay, he will be checked once a day at Unit 94, the transplant in and outpatient wing. We hope his regular appointment won't be at 6:30 am.
The chemo side effects won't hit for about a week. Craig is wearing a filtration mask for about 3 weeks except for when in our room, showering, sleeping, or eating. We're washing hands often and carry hand sanitizer.
If he needs to be hospitalized because of infection, it will likely be around Day 7 to 10 when his white blood cell count is about 500.
If all goes well, we may get to come home the end of April.
It sounds like all is going well at home for Carl. Craig's parents stayed with him for 2 weeks. Jean Carlson, my mom, is with Carl now for a couple weeks. Carl has been able to follow his regular schedule except for missing a couple days of work due to a very sore throat.
When we talk to him, he sounds happy. Mom said today he asked if his mother was ever going to come home. When we told him about the stay in Rochester, he said we couldn't go and we had to stay home with him. As the time got closer to go, he said he wished we would stay home. But when we said good by at the Special Olympics state tournament, he was fine and happy to be with his friends on the team.
Gail
Monday, March 30, 2009
Collection is finished
Craig has surpassed his goal for number of stem cells for 2 transplants. Chemotherapy will be April 1& 2 and transplant will April 3!
Craig has a couple days to rest before the start of another phase.
Gail
Craig has a couple days to rest before the start of another phase.
Gail
Summary of March 25 and 26, 2009 Stem cell collection
Once again Craig and I have been busy going to the clinic for stem cell collection. We arrive about 7 am and it takes 5 hours. Craig has to stay in a bed for the entire time, but can watch TV or movies, eat snacks or sleep.
I spend some time with him. If I am tired, I can go down to the Patient Quiet Room where there recliners and blankets and sleep. That's for the entire clinic use. Sometimes it is full and sometimes I'm the only one there.
Craig's stem cells numbers feel dramatically yesterday. Last night he went in for a shot of a second growth factor drug. Today his numbers were back where we wanted them. He went in for a second shot tonight and we hope tomorrow will be the last stem cell colection needed. He needs the number "8" for a stem cell count and he is at 6.28. He can go in for another shot on Friday night and collection again on Saturday if needed. The collection process and shots are tiring for him, so we hope for a high number tomorrow.
He'll have a few days of rest before he can get on the chemotherapy schedule. That's a 2 days process and the 3rd day he'll receive his own stem cells back. Engraftment or growing new cells can take from 7 to 21 days. Craig will need to wear a mask when he is out of our room. If all goes well, this can be done as an outpatient.That's all the news from Rochester. At this time of night the internet is really slow and this typing takes twice as long as it should. Craig and Gail
I spend some time with him. If I am tired, I can go down to the Patient Quiet Room where there recliners and blankets and sleep. That's for the entire clinic use. Sometimes it is full and sometimes I'm the only one there.
Craig's stem cells numbers feel dramatically yesterday. Last night he went in for a shot of a second growth factor drug. Today his numbers were back where we wanted them. He went in for a second shot tonight and we hope tomorrow will be the last stem cell colection needed. He needs the number "8" for a stem cell count and he is at 6.28. He can go in for another shot on Friday night and collection again on Saturday if needed. The collection process and shots are tiring for him, so we hope for a high number tomorrow.
He'll have a few days of rest before he can get on the chemotherapy schedule. That's a 2 days process and the 3rd day he'll receive his own stem cells back. Engraftment or growing new cells can take from 7 to 21 days. Craig will need to wear a mask when he is out of our room. If all goes well, this can be done as an outpatient.That's all the news from Rochester. At this time of night the internet is really slow and this typing takes twice as long as it should. Craig and Gail
Monday, March 23, 2009
Contact information
Craig & Gail Eichstadt
705 2nd St. SW # 64
Rochester, MN 55902
507-535-1012 ext. 352
Craig cell: 605 280-4260
Gail cell: 605 280-0702
705 2nd St. SW # 64
Rochester, MN 55902
507-535-1012 ext. 352
Craig cell: 605 280-4260
Gail cell: 605 280-0702
Living arrangements
We feel fortunate we can stay in the Gift of Life Transplant House for as long as needed and as long as we follow the rules. It is a non-profit corporation, but there are several nuns here as employees and volunteers.
The house started in a 1911 Georgian colonial house built by one the first Mayo doctors. The original rooms are used as common areas and the original dining room is still used for dining. A 3 story wing was added on to the house several years ago and the design matches the original house. A huge building for more housing has been started across the street and will be done in November.
There are 2 large communal kitchens and 3 dining rooms. Residents provide their own food, but the kitchens have all the equipment needed for cooking. I do miss my favorite bowls and it is hard sometimes to cook with so many people in the kitchen.
Cleanliness is very important to prevent infection. We sanitize surfaces, before and after we work in the kitchen. Dishes are washed by hand with soap and very hot water and then run through a sanitizer.
The second floor of the original house has 4 rooms for patient and care giver. There are quaint sitting rooms with televisions, books, games, and puzzles for all to use on this floor and on all the floors. On 3rd floor, our TV room is in the former ballroom [a small ballroom] and has many of the original features and original woodwork and ceiling beams. There are no TVs allowed in patient rooms to encourage the residents to visit.
A lot of visiting goes on in the kitchens and dining rooms. Most every one is very friendly. We don't always see some of the sicker patients often. Turnover is high because transplant patients can stay here when needed for checkups even years after the original transplant. Some are only here for a couple days and some for months. It patients waiting for organs can be here for months.
Craig and I enjoy being here. We miss being at home and miss Carl, but this is a wonderful place to stay. There are 3 other couples from SD and many others from the Midwest and even a couple from Argentina. Hospital shuttles run Monday through Friday 7 to 5:30 pm. I've been driving Craig the last few days since he needs to be at the clinic when the shuttles start running. It's nice when I don't have to drive, though.
The Rochester community has embraced the transplant house much like Pierre has embraced the Banquet. The Missouri Synod Lutheran Church is a block from the transplant house. The congregation has a ministry for the patients and helps as needed. Many groups bring in an evening meal for the residents a couple times a month.
Last week we had pizza and cupcakes from a Board of Directors member. The Mennonite Girls sang and there was a local story teller here. I kind of felt like we were in a nursing home.
We're on the 3rd floor and have a large room with 2 beds and a private bath. It's much like a motel, but very quiet.
Craig is doing fairly well, but tires easily. That's one lasting effect of chemo and his back pain. He remains optimistic and we both expect all the procedures will go well and he will be in long term remission when this is all over.
We are very thankful for the support and prayers from family, friends, and coworkers. We know people in many states are praying for Craig. We counted our blessing when we learned one patient had 14 months of chemo and came here 3 weeks after it ended. He went through the week of testing and found his tumor had returned larger than before in those 3 weeks. Gail
The house started in a 1911 Georgian colonial house built by one the first Mayo doctors. The original rooms are used as common areas and the original dining room is still used for dining. A 3 story wing was added on to the house several years ago and the design matches the original house. A huge building for more housing has been started across the street and will be done in November.
There are 2 large communal kitchens and 3 dining rooms. Residents provide their own food, but the kitchens have all the equipment needed for cooking. I do miss my favorite bowls and it is hard sometimes to cook with so many people in the kitchen.
Cleanliness is very important to prevent infection. We sanitize surfaces, before and after we work in the kitchen. Dishes are washed by hand with soap and very hot water and then run through a sanitizer.
The second floor of the original house has 4 rooms for patient and care giver. There are quaint sitting rooms with televisions, books, games, and puzzles for all to use on this floor and on all the floors. On 3rd floor, our TV room is in the former ballroom [a small ballroom] and has many of the original features and original woodwork and ceiling beams. There are no TVs allowed in patient rooms to encourage the residents to visit.
A lot of visiting goes on in the kitchens and dining rooms. Most every one is very friendly. We don't always see some of the sicker patients often. Turnover is high because transplant patients can stay here when needed for checkups even years after the original transplant. Some are only here for a couple days and some for months. It patients waiting for organs can be here for months.
Craig and I enjoy being here. We miss being at home and miss Carl, but this is a wonderful place to stay. There are 3 other couples from SD and many others from the Midwest and even a couple from Argentina. Hospital shuttles run Monday through Friday 7 to 5:30 pm. I've been driving Craig the last few days since he needs to be at the clinic when the shuttles start running. It's nice when I don't have to drive, though.
The Rochester community has embraced the transplant house much like Pierre has embraced the Banquet. The Missouri Synod Lutheran Church is a block from the transplant house. The congregation has a ministry for the patients and helps as needed. Many groups bring in an evening meal for the residents a couple times a month.
Last week we had pizza and cupcakes from a Board of Directors member. The Mennonite Girls sang and there was a local story teller here. I kind of felt like we were in a nursing home.
We're on the 3rd floor and have a large room with 2 beds and a private bath. It's much like a motel, but very quiet.
Craig is doing fairly well, but tires easily. That's one lasting effect of chemo and his back pain. He remains optimistic and we both expect all the procedures will go well and he will be in long term remission when this is all over.
We are very thankful for the support and prayers from family, friends, and coworkers. We know people in many states are praying for Craig. We counted our blessing when we learned one patient had 14 months of chemo and came here 3 weeks after it ended. He went through the week of testing and found his tumor had returned larger than before in those 3 weeks. Gail
First week summary, part 2
We just got out Craig's schedule from last week and I forgot the blood and urine tests, electrocardiogram, pulmonary function test, and echocardiogram. We spent 8-10 hours at the clinic every day.
Last Thursday to Sunday Craig had injections to force the stem cells to multiple, mature and go into the blood stream. Today, 3.23.09, stem cell collection began at 7 am. Craig was hooked up to a machine that reminds me of a kidney dialysis for 5 hours. People who don't have a central line have an IV in each arm and need to keep their arms still for the entire time. Craig can watch TV, read, sleep, listen to music, and have snacks. He also had more shots to force the cells to grow.
The cells, that look alot like blood, have a preservative added and then are frozen. The cells are usable for up to 10 years. The preservative causes some unpleasant side effects when the transplant begins.
This afternoon the bone marrow nurse coordinator called and said 25% of the needed cells were collected. We hope there will be enough cells collected by Friday for 2 transplants. Half the cells will be as soon as possible and the remainder will stay frozen in case Craig needs a second transplant. Neither one of us wants to repeat last week.
After collection, Craig will have 2 days of intensive chemotherapy to kill off all the bone marrow. This produces the usual unpleasant side effects. I need to take pictures of Craig before his hair falls out.
We don't know when the transplant will start. Only 6 patients can be transplanted in one day, there may be a wait. Staff here only give out scheduling information as needed.
Last Saturday and Sunday we only went to the clinic once a day for injections. We enjoyed the break from the long days, but had to go in early. End of first week.
Last Thursday to Sunday Craig had injections to force the stem cells to multiple, mature and go into the blood stream. Today, 3.23.09, stem cell collection began at 7 am. Craig was hooked up to a machine that reminds me of a kidney dialysis for 5 hours. People who don't have a central line have an IV in each arm and need to keep their arms still for the entire time. Craig can watch TV, read, sleep, listen to music, and have snacks. He also had more shots to force the cells to grow.
The cells, that look alot like blood, have a preservative added and then are frozen. The cells are usable for up to 10 years. The preservative causes some unpleasant side effects when the transplant begins.
This afternoon the bone marrow nurse coordinator called and said 25% of the needed cells were collected. We hope there will be enough cells collected by Friday for 2 transplants. Half the cells will be as soon as possible and the remainder will stay frozen in case Craig needs a second transplant. Neither one of us wants to repeat last week.
After collection, Craig will have 2 days of intensive chemotherapy to kill off all the bone marrow. This produces the usual unpleasant side effects. I need to take pictures of Craig before his hair falls out.
We don't know when the transplant will start. Only 6 patients can be transplanted in one day, there may be a wait. Staff here only give out scheduling information as needed.
Last Saturday and Sunday we only went to the clinic once a day for injections. We enjoyed the break from the long days, but had to go in early. End of first week.
Third Summary of our first week at Mayo Clinic
The first week was full of every kind of test possible for Craig: MRIs, PET scan, CT scan, x-rays, renal function test, dental exam, visit with a psychologist, and several informative sessions with nurses. The purpose of all the tests is to find new developments, but the hope is to find nothing.
Monday afternoon Craig had another bone marrow biopsy and it was negative for cancer. He is in remission. This is great news and now is the perfect time for a transplant. Thursday morning Craig had another procedure and a central line was inserted under the skin on his chest. One end is in a vein and the other comes out of his chest and splits into 2 tubes. The tubes can be used for like an IV, but the main purpose is to pull blood into a machine, extract the stem cells, and return the blood.
Monday afternoon Craig had another bone marrow biopsy and it was negative for cancer. He is in remission. This is great news and now is the perfect time for a transplant. Thursday morning Craig had another procedure and a central line was inserted under the skin on his chest. One end is in a vein and the other comes out of his chest and splits into 2 tubes. The tubes can be used for like an IV, but the main purpose is to pull blood into a machine, extract the stem cells, and return the blood.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
The first week at Mayo Clinic 3.16.09-3.22.09
This week was 5 full days of tests, evaluations, explanations, and 2 procedures. Craig had MRIs, PET scans, CT scan, x-rays, renal function test, dental exam, interview with a psychologist, blood and urine tests, bone marrow biopsy, and had another catheter inserted in his chest. The purpose of all the tests was to be sure nothing new had developed, such as tumors in the spine. They didn't tell us this until after all the tests. Most days we had to be at the clinic by 7 or 7:30 and often were there til 5 or 5:30. Each day and evening was full and left little time to email often or to write blogs.
The good news is Craig is in remission. There is no cancer in his blood or bone marrow and the bone lesion in his lower back is cancer-free and will not need radiation. Now is the best time for a stem cell transplant.
Thursday a catheter was threaded into his neck and down into a vein. The other end comes out an incision in his chest and ends with 2 tubes. One tube will direct blood into a machine to extract stem cells and then the 2nd tubes returns the blood to his body. Later that day, Craig had 2 growth factor injections in his stomach and every day through Sunday. These force the stem cells to multiple in the bone marrow to the point there are so many they are pushed into the blood stream.
For the rest of his stay, Craig will only go to the clinic once a day. Most everything will be done on an outpatient basis unless there is a problem.
Now there are trillions of stem cells in his blood and collection will begin Monday at 7 am using the catheter. The collection will take 3-5 hours each day until enough cells are collected for 2 transplants. It can take 2-7 days to collect enough cells. The cells are put in a preservative and frozen. After 2 days of chemotherapy to kill his bone marrow, the cells will be transplanted. This chemo has the typical side effects of nausea and hair loss.
We live in the Gift of Life Transplant House 4 blocks from the clinic. You can find out about the house by Googling the name. There are 50 transplant patients and their care givers living in the house. We have an pleasant room with private bath and 2 beds on the 3rd floor. There many TV rooms, and reading and computer rooms. There are 2 complete communal kitchens and 3 dining rooms. We have a refrigerator, freezer, and pantry space. The only downside is washing all dishes in hot soapy water and then running through a sanitizer. We need to wash hands frequently and sanitize the surfaces in the kitchen before and after using them.
Shuttles run Monday-Friday from 7 am to 5:30 and some of the time our schedule works to use this. The rest of the time we drive.
We talk to Carl every day and he is doing fine with Grandpa and ma Eichstadt for 2 weeks. My mother will stay with Carl at the end of March for 3 weeks.
We look forward to your communications on the blog. Please share the address with others. Thank you for your support and prayers. They are working.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
This is Gail. This is a time of new experiences. I'm trying my hand at adding to Craig's blog.
Friday Carl traveled with the Oahe-Pierre Special Olympics basketball team to compete at Mitchell. This is the first time Oahe Inc. has competed in Special Olympics. Craig and I stopped to see the team play a game against Huron. Oahe-Pierre started out with a 8 point lead, but the seasoned Huron team rallied in the second half and pulled out a victory.
I did take a few pictures of the team and will get them on the computer as soon as I learn how.
Carl and the team seemed to be enjoying themselves. Craig and I were glad to see all of them and cheer them on. After the team ate, we hugged Carl good-by and started the drive to the next new experience.
The team played another game at 3 pm and got back to Pierre in the evening. Even after a long day, Carl went to Pot of Gold bowling with the Pit Crew house guys and had fun. He told us he bought a new bowling ball.
We're in Rochester and settled in the Gift of Life Transplant House for the medical experience of getting Craig in long-term remission from multiple myeloma.
The house is an elegant 1911 Georgian colonial built by a Mayo doctor. The original house is used as common areas and has one dining room. The 60 rooms are in a new Georgian colonial style addition behind the house. Our 3rd floor room with bathroom is large & pleasant. We should be very comfortable here. The 3rd floor ballroom has been converted to a common sitting and TV room and there are a couple reading rooms . I'm looking forward to relaxing there.
There are 3 large communal kitchens and dining rooms and ours is in the addition. It's hard cooking in a strange kitchen and our pantry, freezer, and refrigerator space are in different corners. We need to sanitize the counter area before and after we cook and sterilize the dishes after we wash them by hand in very hot water. It will take awhile to get used to cooking with a third of the patients/care-givers and no dishwasher.
There are 3 other patients from South Dakota here, but we haven't met them yet. Many are from Iowa and Minnesota and there is one patient from Italy.
Craig is fasting this evening and needs to be at the clinic tomorrow morning at 7:30 am for tests. We're not sure what will be tested and will be given more details tomorrow.
There is a transit bus from the house to the clinic. We plan on using that often. It's about 5 blocks from the house to clinic, so I could walk occasionally. Parking is a challenge close to the clinic.
Craig is feeling pretty good tonight and looks good. We found a Hy-Vee and Craig didn't get tired shopping. He hasn't felt well the past couple weeks since his last chemo treatment. The chemo did kill the cancer in his blood, bone marrow, and one lesion, but left him tired.
Pastor Urbach suggested we call the pastor from Trinity Lutheran here and planned on doing that. Tonight we discovered the church is a half block away.
We need to be ready for the bus at 7 am tomorrow, so it's time to close. Thanks for all your prayers and support. Gail
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Wednesday Evening
We are home for this Wednesday, waiting for our trip this weekend to Mayo Clinic, Rochester.
I will post to this blog as there are new things to report. For now, hello, and there will be more to come.
I will post to this blog as there are new things to report. For now, hello, and there will be more to come.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
A week and a half Away...
As most of you who would read or follow this blog know, I am a 57 year old state employee in Pierre, South Dakota who was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in October, 2008. I have been undergoing chemotherapy since diagnosis, and this part of treatment probably is finished or nearly so. The next (apparent) step in treatment is an autologous stem cell transplant, which involves a several month process of promoting my own stem cell growth, collecting my own stem cells, killing any remaining cancer with massive doses of chemotherapy, and re-infusion of my own stem cells to hopefully produce new, cancer free bone marrow. The bone marrow, in turn, makes the various components of the blood such as red and white blood cells. There are important milestones along this road. I will try to keep friends and family updated on this blog. I hope I don't put everyone to sleep!
(By the way, this IS Craig, not Anne and Scott posing as Craig, so this post is the genuine article----ha,ha)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)