After I wrote the blog last night Jess started itching and before we knew it she was full of hives! I gave her two Benadryl and called the on call doctor who then asked if we had any steroids (which we did thankfully), then he told us to give her 40 mg. Jon rubbed Caladryl on it to help and she started to feel better. She slept pretty well for the night, but when I went in and checked on her later in the morning she had a nice size bruise on her back from the jackass doctor but at least it is only tender now. The doctor office from Medford kept calling because they wanted us to come back over there today for her to get a checkup today. Yeah right; we were not going back over there after what happened yesterday and with all the snow we had too. She stayed home and slept all day and didn't eat very much. She worries me. About an hour ago she had another hive attack...so what is causing this now? We will keep an eye on her and she might just end up in the ER. She just isn't feeling 100%. She is also really cold, hmm. Well, I will get off for now. I will let you know how she is tomorrow. Please keep her in your prayers.
Love to call,
Cindi
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Chemo Day, Dec 29th
Wow! I am so mad that I have given myself a headache and upset my stomach! We headed to Medford around 9 this morning and we just got home at 9! It started off okay. We went to the chemo place and had her blood drawn and met with the doctor and her counts have come up, so she didn't need to be given blood. He wants her to eat yogurt everyday to help with her intestines, they are also keeping her on antibiotics at least one more week for the infection. She then headed into the other room for chemo. One was an IV and the other was the pediatric chemo, with is 3 shots in the arm, which they put ice on first to help with the pain. They have never seen these shots before so they were a little worries so they wanted us to wait for an hour so they could check up on her and make sure that there wasn't a reaction. They also had us pickup an epi pen.
They said that they were going to call Rogue and let them know that we would be running a little late. We got over there and they were so slow Jess was a little anxious to get it over. They took her and I wait and wait...An hour later they wheel her in and as soon as she sees me she starts sobbing! This is the girl who hardly cries for anything! She said that the doctor had no manners and was rushing because it was late. He didn't even wait for the shots to numb before he inserted the needled into her spine. It was making her legs burn and feel like she was being shocked! She said that it was unbelievable. This poor girl has been through enough without this happening. I know that she should have screamed at him, but she always just "takes it." It made me so mad that I put a call into her doctor's office and told the doctor on call what had happened. I will be making a formal complaint tomorrow. I also told her RN and she was upset too. His name is Dr. Rao. I want everyone to know....Well, I will calm down and Jess is home laying on the couch. The RN gave her a couple of pain meds for the way home (which she has never needed before). She also took a couple of Tylenol on the way home for a headache. I will let you know how she is tomorrow. Please put in a couple of extra prayers for her today.
Love, Cindi
They said that they were going to call Rogue and let them know that we would be running a little late. We got over there and they were so slow Jess was a little anxious to get it over. They took her and I wait and wait...An hour later they wheel her in and as soon as she sees me she starts sobbing! This is the girl who hardly cries for anything! She said that the doctor had no manners and was rushing because it was late. He didn't even wait for the shots to numb before he inserted the needled into her spine. It was making her legs burn and feel like she was being shocked! She said that it was unbelievable. This poor girl has been through enough without this happening. I know that she should have screamed at him, but she always just "takes it." It made me so mad that I put a call into her doctor's office and told the doctor on call what had happened. I will be making a formal complaint tomorrow. I also told her RN and she was upset too. His name is Dr. Rao. I want everyone to know....Well, I will calm down and Jess is home laying on the couch. The RN gave her a couple of pain meds for the way home (which she has never needed before). She also took a couple of Tylenol on the way home for a headache. I will let you know how she is tomorrow. Please put in a couple of extra prayers for her today.
Love, Cindi
Timmothy's site
Hello All,
This is Laura...I just wanted to repost the link that my cousin, Tim, had posted in a comment a week or two ago.
He started this to help Jess and the family:
http://giveforward.org/helpjessica
Please visit the site. Thanks!
Laura
This is Laura...I just wanted to repost the link that my cousin, Tim, had posted in a comment a week or two ago.
He started this to help Jess and the family:
http://giveforward.org/helpjessica
Please visit the site. Thanks!
Laura
Monday, December 28, 2009
December 28th
It was a long weekend and Jess now has chemo and the lumbar chemo tomorrow. She hasn't been feeling very well and with chemo happening tomorrow she is really upset. She (we) knew about the chemo, but the doctor said that there were not going to be anymore lumbar chemo done during this set and now they called and said there is. We have an appointment with the doctor after labs at 11:10 am and the lumbar isn't set until 2:00 pm, so I have time to find out if it is right. I will call Portland tomorrow, if I need to, to make sure. She has had a lot of pain in her abdomen and she also has been a little nauseous. She was finally able to get to sleep on her side on Saturday night-without hurting too bad, so she was happy. Her appetite has sure gone down, so I've really been trying to get her little nutritious snacks to help get her to eat. That is all for now. I will let you all know how she does tomorrow. Please keep her in your prayers and send her your strength.
XOXO Cindi
XOXO Cindi
Saturday, December 26, 2009
December 26th
Hope that everyone had a good Christmas :)
Hi all,
As I can see by the comments from the last blog; everyone wants us to keep it up. It was good to hear that from everyone because we don't usually hear from anyone and we wanted to make sure that people were still reading. Jess has been having a rough holiday. I guess her antibiotics haven't kicked the infection yet and she has bad pain every now and then. Her temp has been running okay; that has made me feel a little better about all of this, but it is hard to see her like this. We try to keep her eating and drinking strong throughout the day for energy and I make her things that I know she likes. I also got her a heating pad so she can put it on her stomach. That helps some. I am off for now.
Please keep her in your prayers.
Love to all,
Cindi
Hi all,
As I can see by the comments from the last blog; everyone wants us to keep it up. It was good to hear that from everyone because we don't usually hear from anyone and we wanted to make sure that people were still reading. Jess has been having a rough holiday. I guess her antibiotics haven't kicked the infection yet and she has bad pain every now and then. Her temp has been running okay; that has made me feel a little better about all of this, but it is hard to see her like this. We try to keep her eating and drinking strong throughout the day for energy and I make her things that I know she likes. I also got her a heating pad so she can put it on her stomach. That helps some. I am off for now.
Please keep her in your prayers.
Love to all,
Cindi
Thursday, December 24, 2009
December 24th
Merry Christmas Everyone!!
We got Jess home last night after they gave her another unit of blood before they release her. That makes 7 units in 6 days! She is feeling very weak, but glad to be home. She still has bacteria in her system that we can all catch, so I brought a bunch of cleaning supplies and we are watching things closely. She is also checking her temperature throughout the day and drinking lots of fluids. We have to have her back in Medford on Tuesday now, since they weren't able to get her chemo done until then, I am sure it is because of the holidays. We are keeping close to home this Christmas season, so I hope that you all have a very happy holiday season. Please keep Jess in your prayers and drop me a note on here if you are getting on to read because I would hate for Laura and I to be doing this for nothing...lol Thanks!!
Love you all!
We got Jess home last night after they gave her another unit of blood before they release her. That makes 7 units in 6 days! She is feeling very weak, but glad to be home. She still has bacteria in her system that we can all catch, so I brought a bunch of cleaning supplies and we are watching things closely. She is also checking her temperature throughout the day and drinking lots of fluids. We have to have her back in Medford on Tuesday now, since they weren't able to get her chemo done until then, I am sure it is because of the holidays. We are keeping close to home this Christmas season, so I hope that you all have a very happy holiday season. Please keep Jess in your prayers and drop me a note on here if you are getting on to read because I would hate for Laura and I to be doing this for nothing...lol Thanks!!
Love you all!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
December 22nd
I came home today for the night, if Jess has to stay until Christmas Eve, I will go back tomorrow. Shane had a game and I had to finish up some Christmas wrapping. I wouldn't have left, but Jess assured me that she was okay for the night and I needed to get my stuff done. The roads were horrible, but we made it safely :)
They are giving her meds to help coat her intestines. The doctor came in and said that at least her white count had gone up and her liver counts are looking better, but as he was leaving he stated that she needed blood today, so when I checked on her tonight she was on her second unit. Hopefully it will give her some strength and get her feeling better. The doctors also consulted with Portland and they are not going to give her chemo until next week. I'm sure glad that she is done with the oral chemo for now too. Well I am super tired and really cold. It is 14 outside. Please put in an extra prayer for her :)
Thanks Love,
Cindi
They are giving her meds to help coat her intestines. The doctor came in and said that at least her white count had gone up and her liver counts are looking better, but as he was leaving he stated that she needed blood today, so when I checked on her tonight she was on her second unit. Hopefully it will give her some strength and get her feeling better. The doctors also consulted with Portland and they are not going to give her chemo until next week. I'm sure glad that she is done with the oral chemo for now too. Well I am super tired and really cold. It is 14 outside. Please put in an extra prayer for her :)
Thanks Love,
Cindi
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Dec 21st
Hello to all,
Sorry, I haven't gotten back to you lately. It has been a crazy last two days! Jess was having chest pain, shortness of breath, severe pain in her abdomen, plus a high fever...when she called me yesterday. I told her to call her doctor in Medford and to head to the ER in Klamath where she checked in with a 103.8 temp! Before we knew it she was being air lifted to Medford. It was very stressful and upsetting for all of us. Jon headed out first so he could get over there and Shane and I waited for Jess to get loaded and then went over. As of today she still has a fever, 100.5, she usually runs 97. She also has pain in her abdomen. They did a CT scan and found that her intestines were very inflamed but they are also keeping an eye on her appendix, which could be affected by all of this. They are also keeping her on morphine for pain and antibiotics around the clock until they can get this under control. Her white blood count was extremely low, but has came up today. She was supposed be getting two rounds of IV chemo today, but they said that they are holding off for now. The doctor said that she could be in the hospital for 2-6 days; so I am trying to prepare for that. Please keep her in your prayers.
Love to all,
Cindi
Sorry, I haven't gotten back to you lately. It has been a crazy last two days! Jess was having chest pain, shortness of breath, severe pain in her abdomen, plus a high fever...when she called me yesterday. I told her to call her doctor in Medford and to head to the ER in Klamath where she checked in with a 103.8 temp! Before we knew it she was being air lifted to Medford. It was very stressful and upsetting for all of us. Jon headed out first so he could get over there and Shane and I waited for Jess to get loaded and then went over. As of today she still has a fever, 100.5, she usually runs 97. She also has pain in her abdomen. They did a CT scan and found that her intestines were very inflamed but they are also keeping an eye on her appendix, which could be affected by all of this. They are also keeping her on morphine for pain and antibiotics around the clock until they can get this under control. Her white blood count was extremely low, but has came up today. She was supposed be getting two rounds of IV chemo today, but they said that they are holding off for now. The doctor said that she could be in the hospital for 2-6 days; so I am trying to prepare for that. Please keep her in your prayers.
Love to all,
Cindi
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Update Dec 20th
Sorry, Jess is in Medford.
Update from Cindi:
Jess is in Providence in Medford. She has been in lots of stomach pain. She still has a fever but it is down from Klamath. They just did a ultrasound and might do a ct scan. Put her on antibiotics and fluids. Not sure what is wrong yet. Are doing lots of tests. Doc came in and wasn't sure as of yet. Said that she could be in for 2-6 days. Just in how she responds. Please add her to your prayers! Love you all!
Update from Cindi:
Jess is in Providence in Medford. She has been in lots of stomach pain. She still has a fever but it is down from Klamath. They just did a ultrasound and might do a ct scan. Put her on antibiotics and fluids. Not sure what is wrong yet. Are doing lots of tests. Doc came in and wasn't sure as of yet. Said that she could be in for 2-6 days. Just in how she responds. Please add her to your prayers! Love you all!
Prayers Needed Dec 20th!!
Hi All,
This is Laura. Aunt Cindi has been texting me and so I figured I should get something posted, to help Jessi with extra prayers today. She had an extremely high fever and body aches so they took her to Sky Lakes, in Klamath Falls. They are not sure what is wrong and she will be airlifted to OHSU, in Portland within the hour. Please keep positive thoughts and prayers up for the entire family. I know that they are all extremely stressed. As I hear, I will try to post updates.
Thank you,
Laura
This is Laura. Aunt Cindi has been texting me and so I figured I should get something posted, to help Jessi with extra prayers today. She had an extremely high fever and body aches so they took her to Sky Lakes, in Klamath Falls. They are not sure what is wrong and she will be airlifted to OHSU, in Portland within the hour. Please keep positive thoughts and prayers up for the entire family. I know that they are all extremely stressed. As I hear, I will try to post updates.
Thank you,
Laura
Dec 19th
Hello All,
Jess has had a pretty good weekend so far. She is especially tired though, so it worries me about her blood being low again, but I told her to let me know if she started to get really tired like last week when it got so bad. She is also really cold, which is another indication. Shane had two basketball games this weekend and the doctor told her she could go as long as she sat up at the top, away from people, and had to wear her mask. It is hard for me to let her go, but I know she needs to be able to do things like that. It is good for her to be as normal as possible. It is really tough to watch her walk up the bleachers, especially when she tells me how hard it is to go up them. This is the girl that used to run up and down them for practice! I have bough her Special K and Boost drinks to help her to keep her strength up. She is only up for one day of chemo next week, so we are really excited and so is she, after the two long weeks of four day treatments. I will let you go and thank you so much for checking in. My nephew, Tim, has started a web page to help us out, please go and check it out and see all the great pictures :) Love to all!!
http://givefoward.org/helpjessica/
Jess has had a pretty good weekend so far. She is especially tired though, so it worries me about her blood being low again, but I told her to let me know if she started to get really tired like last week when it got so bad. She is also really cold, which is another indication. Shane had two basketball games this weekend and the doctor told her she could go as long as she sat up at the top, away from people, and had to wear her mask. It is hard for me to let her go, but I know she needs to be able to do things like that. It is good for her to be as normal as possible. It is really tough to watch her walk up the bleachers, especially when she tells me how hard it is to go up them. This is the girl that used to run up and down them for practice! I have bough her Special K and Boost drinks to help her to keep her strength up. She is only up for one day of chemo next week, so we are really excited and so is she, after the two long weeks of four day treatments. I will let you go and thank you so much for checking in. My nephew, Tim, has started a web page to help us out, please go and check it out and see all the great pictures :) Love to all!!
http://givefoward.org/helpjessica/
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Dec 16th-17th, Two blogs in one
This is Laura-just wanted to let everyone know that I am sorry for getting to the posts late; especially this week with everything going on with Jess. I am in a different time zone and I am in bed sometimes by the time they are sent :)
Weds 16th
Thank you to my niece, Laura, who is always busy yet finds the time to do the blog for me! :) I love and miss her!
Well, I just made it back to the hotel in Medford. Robbie came over with me, thankfully, cause he didn't want me to drive to Medford by myself. It is about 1045 pm, when we left the hospital they were just hooking Jess up for another unit of blood. They are not sure what is going on, but something is going wrong with the blood that they put in yesterday, so they put two more units in today. Plus she had her regular chemo, oral chemo, and spinal chemo all today as well. The hospital in Portland is working on her blood too (it was sent to them yesterday). The doctor up there was going to call the blood bank to check on things. I am going to call OHSU tomorrow to see if they can fill me in on what is going on. With me going back and forth, from Klamath to Medford, I have missed seeing the doctor over here, so the kids have been telling me what is going on, but there are so many things discussed and they are also feeling so overwhelmed. I also want to check to see if they found if Shane is a match. I am exhausted and stressed to the max, so I am heading to a hot bath and bed.
Please put Jess in your prayers...Thank you so much and Love to all!
Cindi
Thurs 17th
We just made it home from Medford. Jess ended up receiving 4 units of blood1 The doctor said that most people at that level can't even walk. My big, strong daughter!! :) Well, I just got a call from Portland. It was the head nurse, Claire, that we had up there, who is also doctor K's right hand man. We call him Dr K because he has a really hard name to say and write, lol. She says that he is following and advising with the doctor down in Medford and he really doesn't know why her blood has dropped this bad either. If she starts to feel like she did again, we need to call the doctor and get her levels checked sooner. Jess is still tired and cold, but doing better than the last few days. He said that we will go ahead as planned unless something comes up. She has chemo again on Monday; I wasn't planning on going, but with all of this going on I will just go over so that I can hear what is happening with her blood. Oh and guess what Claire had to say...Shane is a MATCH!! I was so excited and so was she :D She said like exactly too! So, if Jess happens to need marrow down the road they know that he will be the one...Well I am happy to be home and so so very tire. I might not write until Sunday, unless something happens (hopefully not!). I will have to catch up on some housework and Christmas stuff. Please keep Jess in your prayers.
Love to all,
Cindi
Weds 16th
Thank you to my niece, Laura, who is always busy yet finds the time to do the blog for me! :) I love and miss her!
Well, I just made it back to the hotel in Medford. Robbie came over with me, thankfully, cause he didn't want me to drive to Medford by myself. It is about 1045 pm, when we left the hospital they were just hooking Jess up for another unit of blood. They are not sure what is going on, but something is going wrong with the blood that they put in yesterday, so they put two more units in today. Plus she had her regular chemo, oral chemo, and spinal chemo all today as well. The hospital in Portland is working on her blood too (it was sent to them yesterday). The doctor up there was going to call the blood bank to check on things. I am going to call OHSU tomorrow to see if they can fill me in on what is going on. With me going back and forth, from Klamath to Medford, I have missed seeing the doctor over here, so the kids have been telling me what is going on, but there are so many things discussed and they are also feeling so overwhelmed. I also want to check to see if they found if Shane is a match. I am exhausted and stressed to the max, so I am heading to a hot bath and bed.
Please put Jess in your prayers...Thank you so much and Love to all!
Cindi
Thurs 17th
We just made it home from Medford. Jess ended up receiving 4 units of blood1 The doctor said that most people at that level can't even walk. My big, strong daughter!! :) Well, I just got a call from Portland. It was the head nurse, Claire, that we had up there, who is also doctor K's right hand man. We call him Dr K because he has a really hard name to say and write, lol. She says that he is following and advising with the doctor down in Medford and he really doesn't know why her blood has dropped this bad either. If she starts to feel like she did again, we need to call the doctor and get her levels checked sooner. Jess is still tired and cold, but doing better than the last few days. He said that we will go ahead as planned unless something comes up. She has chemo again on Monday; I wasn't planning on going, but with all of this going on I will just go over so that I can hear what is happening with her blood. Oh and guess what Claire had to say...Shane is a MATCH!! I was so excited and so was she :D She said like exactly too! So, if Jess happens to need marrow down the road they know that he will be the one...Well I am happy to be home and so so very tire. I might not write until Sunday, unless something happens (hopefully not!). I will have to catch up on some housework and Christmas stuff. Please keep Jess in your prayers.
Love to all,
Cindi
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
December 15th
Again...this is Laura posting what my aunt, Cindi, sends to my email. This is yesterday's update.
Well, I just got home and I am trying to relax. I thought that being at home and going to Medford would be so much nicer, but in a way it seems worse. I think it is because we have to do so much driving back and forth and all the stuff in between gets hard. Now with Jess in the hospital over there I have all this added stress. They are now thinking that the chemo is killing the red cells, which is normal, but for some reason her body is not trying to make any to help out...hmm. It is just crazy to see my daughter like this. I think that it is worse to me because she really doesn't say anything to me, but I can read it all in her eyes, when she looks at me and I want to be able to fix it for her, but can't. I just try to help give her my strength. She did receive two units of blood today before chemo. I am hoping it will help her. They don't want to slow down at all on the chemo because they are afraid the cancer may get into her blood and marrow. There is a shot to help her with her red blood cells, but it also helps the cancer cells grown too. Isn't it crazy?? So what are they going to do now? I really don't know for sure. They were hesitant to say when she is coming out of the hospital. Maybe tomorrow? Please continue your prayers for Jess. Love and God Bless, Cindi
Well, I just got home and I am trying to relax. I thought that being at home and going to Medford would be so much nicer, but in a way it seems worse. I think it is because we have to do so much driving back and forth and all the stuff in between gets hard. Now with Jess in the hospital over there I have all this added stress. They are now thinking that the chemo is killing the red cells, which is normal, but for some reason her body is not trying to make any to help out...hmm. It is just crazy to see my daughter like this. I think that it is worse to me because she really doesn't say anything to me, but I can read it all in her eyes, when she looks at me and I want to be able to fix it for her, but can't. I just try to help give her my strength. She did receive two units of blood today before chemo. I am hoping it will help her. They don't want to slow down at all on the chemo because they are afraid the cancer may get into her blood and marrow. There is a shot to help her with her red blood cells, but it also helps the cancer cells grown too. Isn't it crazy?? So what are they going to do now? I really don't know for sure. They were hesitant to say when she is coming out of the hospital. Maybe tomorrow? Please continue your prayers for Jess. Love and God Bless, Cindi
Monday, December 14, 2009
We need prayers today :)
Hello All,
The weekend was pretty much uneventful, Jess felt about the same. Today we went to Medford for picc changes, blood work, and chemo. When they did her blood work, it came back somewhat alarming. She is severely anemic and her counts are low, she needs about 3 pints of blood. However, they also found that her body is attacking itself, we are not quite sure what it means at this point. They admitted her into the hospital in Medford, they are not giving her blood because her body would just attack it...she is stressed and scared and we are too, but putting on a positive face. Jon and Jess stayed at the Medford hospital. Robbie and I are driving back to Klamath so he can help take care of the animals with Shane (Pat is plowing snow; so he needs help), and I am getting clothes for everyone and plan on going back to Medford. Please keep Jess in your prayers, we are waiting to hear on the next plan of action. Medford had to consult with OHSU.
Thank you for reading and being so positive for all of us. We appreciate it.
Love to all,
Cindi
The weekend was pretty much uneventful, Jess felt about the same. Today we went to Medford for picc changes, blood work, and chemo. When they did her blood work, it came back somewhat alarming. She is severely anemic and her counts are low, she needs about 3 pints of blood. However, they also found that her body is attacking itself, we are not quite sure what it means at this point. They admitted her into the hospital in Medford, they are not giving her blood because her body would just attack it...she is stressed and scared and we are too, but putting on a positive face. Jon and Jess stayed at the Medford hospital. Robbie and I are driving back to Klamath so he can help take care of the animals with Shane (Pat is plowing snow; so he needs help), and I am getting clothes for everyone and plan on going back to Medford. Please keep Jess in your prayers, we are waiting to hear on the next plan of action. Medford had to consult with OHSU.
Thank you for reading and being so positive for all of us. We appreciate it.
Love to all,
Cindi
Friday, December 11, 2009
December 11
It is snowing!! lol
Good evening! Not much to report again today. It was wonderful to just be able to rest. I am fighting a cold, so I am taking all kinds of anti-cold medicines, since I can't risk getting sick around Jess. She slept well and didn't get up until late this morning. She needed it after driving back and forth for 4 days of chemo. Her appetite is slowing down so I am trying to make sure that she eats and drinks enough. She has also been really cold lately, she is sitting by the fire right now :) When she was on steroids she was always hot so this is a big change. I need to get going; I have to check on dinner.
Love to all,
Cindi
Good evening! Not much to report again today. It was wonderful to just be able to rest. I am fighting a cold, so I am taking all kinds of anti-cold medicines, since I can't risk getting sick around Jess. She slept well and didn't get up until late this morning. She needed it after driving back and forth for 4 days of chemo. Her appetite is slowing down so I am trying to make sure that she eats and drinks enough. She has also been really cold lately, she is sitting by the fire right now :) When she was on steroids she was always hot so this is a big change. I need to get going; I have to check on dinner.
Love to all,
Cindi
Thursday, December 10, 2009
December 10th
Good Evening!
Not much to report today. Jess is still feeling about the same as yesterday. Maybe a little more tired and her appetite is starting to go down some. We are taking her temp a few times a day and she is drinking a lot. One of the new chemos is really hard on her bladder so she really needs to watch her fluid intake. She needs to drink lots of water (if I can get her to) Gatorade and vitamin water are good, but if she drinks caffeine, she has to drink twice as much water to compensate. Her potassium level is low so the doctor has put her on some potassium pills. That is all for now. Jess has the next 3 days off, so she (Jon and me too!) are super happy to be able to sleep in and take it easy. Thank you for all the prayers and positive energy being sent our way!
Love you guys :)
Cindi
Not much to report today. Jess is still feeling about the same as yesterday. Maybe a little more tired and her appetite is starting to go down some. We are taking her temp a few times a day and she is drinking a lot. One of the new chemos is really hard on her bladder so she really needs to watch her fluid intake. She needs to drink lots of water (if I can get her to) Gatorade and vitamin water are good, but if she drinks caffeine, she has to drink twice as much water to compensate. Her potassium level is low so the doctor has put her on some potassium pills. That is all for now. Jess has the next 3 days off, so she (Jon and me too!) are super happy to be able to sleep in and take it easy. Thank you for all the prayers and positive energy being sent our way!
Love you guys :)
Cindi
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
December 9th
Hi All!
Just got home from Medford again. Jess just had one chemo via IV today; it takes about an hour and a half with the pre-meds and setup. I usually read my book, watch tv, or get on the computer to kill the time. Still it makes for a super long day. Jessi is getting really wiped out, already from the last 3 days. The chemo is all different so far and she doesn't know what to expect from it. So far some of the side effects that she has had are chills, muscle aches, joint pain, and they have made her extremely tired. It seems like next week is going to be really long. It will be really nice to have the next two weeks, after next, of just one day a week IV chemo and then her pills and oral chemo. We will have to be back there tomorrow at 230, but at least we can try to sleep in. Thank goodness the roads aren't bad at all right now. Please keep her in your prayers and send positive energy her way :)
Love,
Cindi
Just got home from Medford again. Jess just had one chemo via IV today; it takes about an hour and a half with the pre-meds and setup. I usually read my book, watch tv, or get on the computer to kill the time. Still it makes for a super long day. Jessi is getting really wiped out, already from the last 3 days. The chemo is all different so far and she doesn't know what to expect from it. So far some of the side effects that she has had are chills, muscle aches, joint pain, and they have made her extremely tired. It seems like next week is going to be really long. It will be really nice to have the next two weeks, after next, of just one day a week IV chemo and then her pills and oral chemo. We will have to be back there tomorrow at 230, but at least we can try to sleep in. Thank goodness the roads aren't bad at all right now. Please keep her in your prayers and send positive energy her way :)
Love,
Cindi
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
December 8th
We just got home from Medford, about 6 pm tonight. What a long day!! We had packed to spend the night, but Jess said she felt well enough to come home for the night. She had an IV and spinal chemo today. The spinal was done at Providence, Jess said she really liked them. She has to lie still for an hour or so after the procedure to make sure that she doesn't get a splitting headache. Everything seemed to go well today so we are all really happy. The doctor and nurses are just amazed at this protocol for chemo. I guess, because they have never really seen pediatric regiments before. They said they all got together to review it. Anyway, I'm off to Bonanza to watch Shane play some basketball. We have to be back in Medford by 230 tomorrow so that is really nice, we will be able to catch up on some rest. Please keep up the prayers and I send my love to all!!
XOXO Cindi
XOXO Cindi
Monday, December 7, 2009
December 7th
Wow, wow, wow!
We left for Medford about 6 am and it is 2pm now and we know that we still have a couple of hours here. Plus we learned that we have 4 days of chemo in Medford in a row and then the same next week! Also, Jess will be having the lumbar (spinal) one again tomorrow! Whew! Just learned that we will be at Providence hospital for the lumbar, but will have to be here first at 930 am for chemo and blood tests. Not as bad as this morning though. She is a little nervous as this is a whole new regiment for her with different chemo and they aren't sure how it will affect her. She is also getting chemo orally, so we are all a little shell shocked. The good news is that it seems to be a wonderful facility and is certainly the nicest one that we have been to so far. She has her own tv, warm blankets, and snacks. So a little extra comfort. She deserves it though :) Please keep her in your prayers. It sure is going to be a long road.
God Bless!
Cindi
We left for Medford about 6 am and it is 2pm now and we know that we still have a couple of hours here. Plus we learned that we have 4 days of chemo in Medford in a row and then the same next week! Also, Jess will be having the lumbar (spinal) one again tomorrow! Whew! Just learned that we will be at Providence hospital for the lumbar, but will have to be here first at 930 am for chemo and blood tests. Not as bad as this morning though. She is a little nervous as this is a whole new regiment for her with different chemo and they aren't sure how it will affect her. She is also getting chemo orally, so we are all a little shell shocked. The good news is that it seems to be a wonderful facility and is certainly the nicest one that we have been to so far. She has her own tv, warm blankets, and snacks. So a little extra comfort. She deserves it though :) Please keep her in your prayers. It sure is going to be a long road.
God Bless!
Cindi
Sunday, December 6, 2009
December 6th
Hi to all,
It was a cold snowy day today and tonight. Of course we have to head to Medford by 6 am tomorrow morn! But I'm sure that it will be okay. Jess slept well last night, but was feeling a little under the weather late in the day. We think that she has been doing a little too much lately and since she was cut back on some of her meds, we think her body needs some time to adjust. We will be sure to bring it up to the new doctor tomorrow morning. Please keep her in your prayers as she undergoes a new round of chemo.
Love to all,
Cindi
It was a cold snowy day today and tonight. Of course we have to head to Medford by 6 am tomorrow morn! But I'm sure that it will be okay. Jess slept well last night, but was feeling a little under the weather late in the day. We think that she has been doing a little too much lately and since she was cut back on some of her meds, we think her body needs some time to adjust. We will be sure to bring it up to the new doctor tomorrow morning. Please keep her in your prayers as she undergoes a new round of chemo.
Love to all,
Cindi
Saturday, December 5, 2009
December 5th
Not much to report today. Just catching up around the house with laundry and ever present bills, lol! Jess has been feeling pretty well today. Eating well and doing a little exercising (walking around), just so she doesn't just sit. She said that the fresh air feels good. It is sure nice that she doesn't have as many pills to take and we are at home :) Jon still has to flush her picc daily to keep it open for the chemo. Anyways, I will talk atcha all tomorrow.
God bless and take care!
<3 Cindi xoxo
God bless and take care!
<3 Cindi xoxo
Friday, December 4, 2009
December 4th
Home finally!!
We had a good trip home today. We got up and ate breakfast around 8 and then finished getting ready to head back to Klamath. Jess ended up having a good night after having spent the day at the ER. The doctors from OHSU had called last night to check up on her, and then she called them this morning to let them know how she was feeling, before we could leave. She was also cut down on some of the meds she has been taking, that made her happy since she has been on so many. I meant to ask why, but I always have so much on my mind, I really need to write down my questions so I don't forget them all. lol. We start in Medford on Monday with a new doctor, so we will be able to ask more questions then. The doctors in Portland will be overseeing everything and we will have to be back up here in two months. They will do scans and tests to see where everything is at. That is all for now. We had a super long week and are all beat! Please keep up the prayers as she still has a long road ahead of us. Thank you for everything.
Love to all,
Cindi
We had a good trip home today. We got up and ate breakfast around 8 and then finished getting ready to head back to Klamath. Jess ended up having a good night after having spent the day at the ER. The doctors from OHSU had called last night to check up on her, and then she called them this morning to let them know how she was feeling, before we could leave. She was also cut down on some of the meds she has been taking, that made her happy since she has been on so many. I meant to ask why, but I always have so much on my mind, I really need to write down my questions so I don't forget them all. lol. We start in Medford on Monday with a new doctor, so we will be able to ask more questions then. The doctors in Portland will be overseeing everything and we will have to be back up here in two months. They will do scans and tests to see where everything is at. That is all for now. We had a super long week and are all beat! Please keep up the prayers as she still has a long road ahead of us. Thank you for everything.
Love to all,
Cindi
Thursday, December 3, 2009
December 3rd
Minor setback today!!!
We were all getting ready to leave and I wandered over to the kid's room to see how they were getting along and Jess was sitting on the edge of the tub with her feet in the water...I was like, "what is up now?" Jess said that she was having sharp pains in her feet along the top of her ankles. It started around 530 this morning and she got it to stop by soaking them in hot water. Then she was woken up a couple of hours later with it happening again so she called up the emergency numbers they gave her and they told her to go to the ER for a checkup. We went there and they thought that it might be clots or possibly a nerve from the procedure yesterday, but nothing for sure. They sent her home, but wanted us to stay in Portland for another night just in case something was wrong. We will have to call them back to let them know how she is doing. So I went and got us another two rooms for the night and then I called the Medford hospital, we will have to be there at 8 am!! Crazy! That is all for tonight. I will let you know how she is doing tomorrow.
Love to all,
Cindi xoxo
We were all getting ready to leave and I wandered over to the kid's room to see how they were getting along and Jess was sitting on the edge of the tub with her feet in the water...I was like, "what is up now?" Jess said that she was having sharp pains in her feet along the top of her ankles. It started around 530 this morning and she got it to stop by soaking them in hot water. Then she was woken up a couple of hours later with it happening again so she called up the emergency numbers they gave her and they told her to go to the ER for a checkup. We went there and they thought that it might be clots or possibly a nerve from the procedure yesterday, but nothing for sure. They sent her home, but wanted us to stay in Portland for another night just in case something was wrong. We will have to call them back to let them know how she is doing. So I went and got us another two rooms for the night and then I called the Medford hospital, we will have to be there at 8 am!! Crazy! That is all for tonight. I will let you know how she is doing tomorrow.
Love to all,
Cindi xoxo
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
December 2nd, Positive news
Hello All,
We left for the hospital about 7 am this morning and were there until about 6pm! Wow, what a day. I am really excited about what we heard today, but also concerned. The cancer that was in her liver, her uterus, and the other few hot spots in her abdomen are now gone! The mass in her face has shrunk, but still is a good size tumor. The doctor was happy, but then he said that her chance of total recovery in two years is 60 %, which still worried Pat and me. We have to stay positive and keep her in our prayers. I thanked God so much today for all of his help so far. This also means that we get to move to Medford for chemo. I have to call tomorrow morning to get it set up for next Monday. It is still going to be about the same amount of chemo. He said that we will go strong on this cancer. In two months we will come back to Portland to get her scans done and see how everything is going. Shane also had his blood drawn today. If he matches Jess at least 6 points out of 12 he will need to be back up in Portland for a lot more tests and various other things to see if he could be a donor. I need to get going. I am all worn out and we are trying to go home tomorrow.
Love you all,
Cindi
We left for the hospital about 7 am this morning and were there until about 6pm! Wow, what a day. I am really excited about what we heard today, but also concerned. The cancer that was in her liver, her uterus, and the other few hot spots in her abdomen are now gone! The mass in her face has shrunk, but still is a good size tumor. The doctor was happy, but then he said that her chance of total recovery in two years is 60 %, which still worried Pat and me. We have to stay positive and keep her in our prayers. I thanked God so much today for all of his help so far. This also means that we get to move to Medford for chemo. I have to call tomorrow morning to get it set up for next Monday. It is still going to be about the same amount of chemo. He said that we will go strong on this cancer. In two months we will come back to Portland to get her scans done and see how everything is going. Shane also had his blood drawn today. If he matches Jess at least 6 points out of 12 he will need to be back up in Portland for a lot more tests and various other things to see if he could be a donor. I need to get going. I am all worn out and we are trying to go home tomorrow.
Love you all,
Cindi
December 1st
Sorry this is up late from last night!!
We were enjoying our Tuesday, hanging out and I went and cleaned the apartment that we had been staying in earlier, when Jess received a call from the hospital about the scan not coming out?!?! again?? I guess that we now have to head to the hospital early in the morning for ANOTHER scan and then she and Shane will have blood tests done about eleven, her lumber at 2:30 and then the Doctor hopefully after that! Unfortunately we made reservations to stay another night tomorrow because she won't feel like coming home after such a long day. Chemo and a 6 hour drive would be insane. I will let you know how tomorrow goes. Please keep her in your prayers.
Love to all,
Cindi
We were enjoying our Tuesday, hanging out and I went and cleaned the apartment that we had been staying in earlier, when Jess received a call from the hospital about the scan not coming out?!?! again?? I guess that we now have to head to the hospital early in the morning for ANOTHER scan and then she and Shane will have blood tests done about eleven, her lumber at 2:30 and then the Doctor hopefully after that! Unfortunately we made reservations to stay another night tomorrow because she won't feel like coming home after such a long day. Chemo and a 6 hour drive would be insane. I will let you know how tomorrow goes. Please keep her in your prayers.
Love to all,
Cindi
Monday, November 30, 2009
November 30th
Typical Monday!!! :(
We headed off the the hospital bright and early this morning hoping to get everything done. Jess had been fasting all night for her test so she was hungry and thirsty by the time we got there. She got all of her scans and then we went to the blood/chemo room to get her picc lines changed and get her blood drawn and read. Things were going well until I got a phone call, the scans somehow got messed up, so we had to run back to get them done again before the dye in her system wore off. Then we had to jam back to get her spinal fluid drawn and have her chemo put in. For some reason they poked and prodded at her forever and they couldn't get any fluid out of her spine, since she was dehydrated. The doctor wasn't going to get the results in time from her scans so they decided to set it all up again for Weds at 11! They are going to draw Shane's blood and run test on him to see if he is going to the the "just in case" donor. He is missing school and there is nothing that I can do about all of this and it is driving me crazy!! I just read this to her and her Dad (and he says it is doing the same to him!) lol. But we did have a couple good things happen today. The insurance approved Shane getting tested and her blood still came up weak, but not bad! So please keep her in your prayers, that the scans come out good and she has the strength to endure all of this!!
Love to all,
Cindi
We headed off the the hospital bright and early this morning hoping to get everything done. Jess had been fasting all night for her test so she was hungry and thirsty by the time we got there. She got all of her scans and then we went to the blood/chemo room to get her picc lines changed and get her blood drawn and read. Things were going well until I got a phone call, the scans somehow got messed up, so we had to run back to get them done again before the dye in her system wore off. Then we had to jam back to get her spinal fluid drawn and have her chemo put in. For some reason they poked and prodded at her forever and they couldn't get any fluid out of her spine, since she was dehydrated. The doctor wasn't going to get the results in time from her scans so they decided to set it all up again for Weds at 11! They are going to draw Shane's blood and run test on him to see if he is going to the the "just in case" donor. He is missing school and there is nothing that I can do about all of this and it is driving me crazy!! I just read this to her and her Dad (and he says it is doing the same to him!) lol. But we did have a couple good things happen today. The insurance approved Shane getting tested and her blood still came up weak, but not bad! So please keep her in your prayers, that the scans come out good and she has the strength to endure all of this!!
Love to all,
Cindi
Sunday, November 29, 2009
November 29th
Hello to All!
Hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday! We are still up in Bend and are heading to Portland this afternoon. We had Thanksgiving at my sister's in-law's house (Mike and Sally's). It was gorgeous and the food was incredible. Jess had it rough there, because of the steroids (we are thinking). I know that they are wonderful for the cancer, but they are hard on her (her heart feels erratic). The night before last she felt that she might want to go the ER but we ended up giving her one of the pills that help her sleep and it calmed her heart down. Hope that they will be able to wean her off some of the pills after the results we get on Tuesday. She was really scared and so am I. Pat came along for the support for this trip. Shane also came as they hope that he will be able to get tests done this week. It will be nice to know if he is a match. That is all for now.
Please keep her in your prayers as we have a big next couple of days.
Love you all,
Cindi
Hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday! We are still up in Bend and are heading to Portland this afternoon. We had Thanksgiving at my sister's in-law's house (Mike and Sally's). It was gorgeous and the food was incredible. Jess had it rough there, because of the steroids (we are thinking). I know that they are wonderful for the cancer, but they are hard on her (her heart feels erratic). The night before last she felt that she might want to go the ER but we ended up giving her one of the pills that help her sleep and it calmed her heart down. Hope that they will be able to wean her off some of the pills after the results we get on Tuesday. She was really scared and so am I. Pat came along for the support for this trip. Shane also came as they hope that he will be able to get tests done this week. It will be nice to know if he is a match. That is all for now.
Please keep her in your prayers as we have a big next couple of days.
Love you all,
Cindi
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanksgiving, November 25th
Hello All,
Not much to report today. Jess is still the same. Super tired and sleeping lots. I will get back to you on Friday or Saturday, unless something pops up that I need to let you all know about. Thanks so much for your positive thoughts, energy, fundraising, and my mental support :) and especially all of the prayers!!!
We have a super big next week so please keep her in your thoughts over the holiday. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Please take care!!
XOXO Cindi
Not much to report today. Jess is still the same. Super tired and sleeping lots. I will get back to you on Friday or Saturday, unless something pops up that I need to let you all know about. Thanks so much for your positive thoughts, energy, fundraising, and my mental support :) and especially all of the prayers!!!
We have a super big next week so please keep her in your thoughts over the holiday. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Please take care!!
XOXO Cindi
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
November 24th
Hi all!!
Back home in Klamath. Was a really long trip for everyone. Jess was really tired and was nauseous on the way down. We usually try to stay up there after chemo for a day or two, but since Thanksgiving is around the corner we wanted to come home. Jess took some medicine for nausea and for her temperature and basically slept the entire day. It was really nice to see her resting. We are going to stay home until Thurs and head up to Bend for dinner with the family. After that we will most likely head to Portland as Jess has a really big day on the following Monday. They will do lots of tests and we will get results a couple days later.
Take Care and Love to All!! Please keep up the prayers as we are hoping for good news next week!!!
XOXO Cindi
Back home in Klamath. Was a really long trip for everyone. Jess was really tired and was nauseous on the way down. We usually try to stay up there after chemo for a day or two, but since Thanksgiving is around the corner we wanted to come home. Jess took some medicine for nausea and for her temperature and basically slept the entire day. It was really nice to see her resting. We are going to stay home until Thurs and head up to Bend for dinner with the family. After that we will most likely head to Portland as Jess has a really big day on the following Monday. They will do lots of tests and we will get results a couple days later.
Take Care and Love to All!! Please keep up the prayers as we are hoping for good news next week!!!
XOXO Cindi
Monday, November 23, 2009
Chemo Day, November 23rd
Jess slept pretty well last night. Her heart was racing from the steroids, but she took some sleeping pills and was out. She woke up starving and her heart was racing, but she took a nice bath and I got her some breakfast so she would be ready to go to the hospital. When we got there everything went smoothly. We were there at 1230 and back at the hotel by 430. Still a long day for Jess though. They took her blood and gave her anti nausea medicine, and we had to wait for the test results and meds to kick in before they start her chemo. She received two rounds today. Her counts have started to go down some, but not very bad, but that is why she is getting tired easier. Her kidneys were still not where they should be, so our goal is to help make sure she drinks lots of water. She is now napping comfortably and it is always nice to have her resting in bed. That is all for now.
Thanks for all the prayers!
Love to all,
Cindi
Thanks for all the prayers!
Love to all,
Cindi
Sunday, November 22, 2009
November 22nd, Back in Portland
Good Evening!!
Sorry it took so long to get the blog going this weekend. We were all super busy and had a lot going on. Plus we just got settled in our hotel in Portland so it was a long day and it was a long snowy wintry trip. We are all extremely wore out. Jess took a couple long naps along the way. She got a little sick on the trip and had to take an anti nausea pill. Her head was feeling a little woozy too, she said it was from the motion of the pickup. I was really glad when we got here and she could get into bed and relax. We kept taking her temperature but it stayed good all day and I was really happy. She has blood tests and two rounds of chemo tomorrow so it will be another long day. Take care and thanks for reading today.
Keep up the prayers please, as we have a couple more long weeks until we get to hear what is next.
Love,
Cindi
Sorry it took so long to get the blog going this weekend. We were all super busy and had a lot going on. Plus we just got settled in our hotel in Portland so it was a long day and it was a long snowy wintry trip. We are all extremely wore out. Jess took a couple long naps along the way. She got a little sick on the trip and had to take an anti nausea pill. Her head was feeling a little woozy too, she said it was from the motion of the pickup. I was really glad when we got here and she could get into bed and relax. We kept taking her temperature but it stayed good all day and I was really happy. She has blood tests and two rounds of chemo tomorrow so it will be another long day. Take care and thanks for reading today.
Keep up the prayers please, as we have a couple more long weeks until we get to hear what is next.
Love,
Cindi
November 21st
Bummer day for Shane!!
Jess went to Jon's parent's house last night to visit and stay the night. So our house seemed really empty. She said everything went well and it felt good to get up early and get ready to go to Shane's game. Bonanza School had it set up again so Jess and Jon could bring her pickup on by the field so she could watch the game from there. It worked out really well. The weather was amazing considering it was supposed to be snowing all day. It was cold but the sun was shining and Jess said that it felt really nice to be outside for a little bit. :) She wore her mask and came to visit with the fans for a while, they were really glad to see and talk to her. By the end of the game she was exhausted and ready for a nap. The boys played a good last game considering they were playing an unbeaten team. They lost, but I was very proud of them, and sad for the seniors. Shane said that it really hit him after the game, since it was his last game of football. Jess is sleeping on the couch and I need to figure out dinner. Please keep us in your prayers as we head back up to Portland on Sunday morning.
Love to all,
Cindi
Jess went to Jon's parent's house last night to visit and stay the night. So our house seemed really empty. She said everything went well and it felt good to get up early and get ready to go to Shane's game. Bonanza School had it set up again so Jess and Jon could bring her pickup on by the field so she could watch the game from there. It worked out really well. The weather was amazing considering it was supposed to be snowing all day. It was cold but the sun was shining and Jess said that it felt really nice to be outside for a little bit. :) She wore her mask and came to visit with the fans for a while, they were really glad to see and talk to her. By the end of the game she was exhausted and ready for a nap. The boys played a good last game considering they were playing an unbeaten team. They lost, but I was very proud of them, and sad for the seniors. Shane said that it really hit him after the game, since it was his last game of football. Jess is sleeping on the couch and I need to figure out dinner. Please keep us in your prayers as we head back up to Portland on Sunday morning.
Love to all,
Cindi
Friday, November 20, 2009
Enjoying Home :)
Hi All!!
Not much to report today. I went out and visited everyone that I could at Bonanza School. It was wonderful to see everyone and I just can't thank everyone enough for all that they are doing!!! The support has been unbelievable! :) Jess seemed to have a pretty good day. She slept in and then slowly got ready to go. We went into town and she met up with a few close friends, to catch up with. She wanted to stop at Wal-Mart to get a couple staple items. I actually didn't think she was going to be able to make it since she was so wore out, but she bravely trooped in and we got her stuff quickly! By the time we got home, which was a couple of hours later, she was ready for a nap. We are hoping that she is able to make it to Shane's playoff game tomorrow. He was voted 1st Team All League (for defense) and we are all really proud of him. At the last game they let her park her pickup close to the field so she could sit in it and watch the game. It worked really well because she was able to watch the game, nap, and stay warm! lol
That is all for now. God bless all of you!
Cindi
Not much to report today. I went out and visited everyone that I could at Bonanza School. It was wonderful to see everyone and I just can't thank everyone enough for all that they are doing!!! The support has been unbelievable! :) Jess seemed to have a pretty good day. She slept in and then slowly got ready to go. We went into town and she met up with a few close friends, to catch up with. She wanted to stop at Wal-Mart to get a couple staple items. I actually didn't think she was going to be able to make it since she was so wore out, but she bravely trooped in and we got her stuff quickly! By the time we got home, which was a couple of hours later, she was ready for a nap. We are hoping that she is able to make it to Shane's playoff game tomorrow. He was voted 1st Team All League (for defense) and we are all really proud of him. At the last game they let her park her pickup close to the field so she could sit in it and watch the game. It worked really well because she was able to watch the game, nap, and stay warm! lol
That is all for now. God bless all of you!
Cindi
Thursday, November 19, 2009
November 19th
Wow it is sure cold back home in Klamath!! :)
It is amazing to be back home for a few days!! We all decided that we don't want to go back to Portland, lol!! Jess had a great first night home. She ate well, took her pills, and got a really good nights rest. When she woke up this morning though she was really tired, but she had a couple of appointments in town so she had to get ready to go. We left about 15 minutes late, but that was okay....She ended up getting her nails done (with a mask on) and also getting her hair cut really short. She looks super cute of course :) It made her feel really good and that is what really counts. Since she has been getting hit again and again with bad news, it really helps to get girly stuff done! Needless to say by the time we got home she was completely wiped out and ready to sleep! That is all for now!
Please keep up the prayers!
<3 Cindi
It is amazing to be back home for a few days!! We all decided that we don't want to go back to Portland, lol!! Jess had a great first night home. She ate well, took her pills, and got a really good nights rest. When she woke up this morning though she was really tired, but she had a couple of appointments in town so she had to get ready to go. We left about 15 minutes late, but that was okay....She ended up getting her nails done (with a mask on) and also getting her hair cut really short. She looks super cute of course :) It made her feel really good and that is what really counts. Since she has been getting hit again and again with bad news, it really helps to get girly stuff done! Needless to say by the time we got home she was completely wiped out and ready to sleep! That is all for now!
Please keep up the prayers!
<3 Cindi
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
November 18th, Home Sweet Home :)
Home in Klamath!
It was a long trip today, but we finally made it home! We were supposed to leave at 10 am, but ended up being 11 am. Jess has to take it easy when she gets ready or she gets really nauseous. She takes it one step at a time to make it easier, which doesn't bother us. Since she had chemo on Monday, that doesn't help with her energy either. The trip was a little hard on her since the movement of the pickup makes her sick to her stomach, but she was determined to make it home quickly so we only stopped a couple of times. We finally made it around 530. We are planning on staying until Sunday morning, since she starts chemo again on Monday. She is going to try to visit some family and friends as long as no one is sick and she will also have to wear her mask. We will be taking her temperature and she will make sure to take it easy to make sure that she gets enough rest and doesn't run herself down.
Thanks for all the prayers, hugs, and positive thoughts coming our way.
Love to all,
Cindi
It was a long trip today, but we finally made it home! We were supposed to leave at 10 am, but ended up being 11 am. Jess has to take it easy when she gets ready or she gets really nauseous. She takes it one step at a time to make it easier, which doesn't bother us. Since she had chemo on Monday, that doesn't help with her energy either. The trip was a little hard on her since the movement of the pickup makes her sick to her stomach, but she was determined to make it home quickly so we only stopped a couple of times. We finally made it around 530. We are planning on staying until Sunday morning, since she starts chemo again on Monday. She is going to try to visit some family and friends as long as no one is sick and she will also have to wear her mask. We will be taking her temperature and she will make sure to take it easy to make sure that she gets enough rest and doesn't run herself down.
Thanks for all the prayers, hugs, and positive thoughts coming our way.
Love to all,
Cindi
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
November 17th
Coming to you from good ol rainy Portland...lol
As you know Jess had two kinds of chemo yesterday afternoon. She seems to take it pretty well as they have her nausea medicine figured out. They give her about 5 pills a half an hour before chemo and it works wonderfully. After we got home last night she was really tired so she took about an hour nap. I was wondering if she would be able to sleep for the night, but she took two sleeping pills and she ended up getting a good nights sleep. She has a hard time getting going today, but that is okay I tell her, after all she has been through. Her appetite is still strong because of all the steroids she is on so that is wonderful for now, to help keep her strength up. I am also making her drink lots of fluids today after the doctor said her kidneys were stress yesterday. That is all for now.
If Jess is feeling good tomorrow we are going to try to bring her home for a few days to get here out of here. Keep your fingers crossed! :)
Love to all!
Cindi
As you know Jess had two kinds of chemo yesterday afternoon. She seems to take it pretty well as they have her nausea medicine figured out. They give her about 5 pills a half an hour before chemo and it works wonderfully. After we got home last night she was really tired so she took about an hour nap. I was wondering if she would be able to sleep for the night, but she took two sleeping pills and she ended up getting a good nights sleep. She has a hard time getting going today, but that is okay I tell her, after all she has been through. Her appetite is still strong because of all the steroids she is on so that is wonderful for now, to help keep her strength up. I am also making her drink lots of fluids today after the doctor said her kidneys were stress yesterday. That is all for now.
If Jess is feeling good tomorrow we are going to try to bring her home for a few days to get here out of here. Keep your fingers crossed! :)
Love to all!
Cindi
Monday, November 16, 2009
November 16th
Hello from the chemo center...
It is 430 and we are still here! We arrived at 1230! It was super busy here and they had all her stuff planned for today. So we have been from room to room. We started with lots of blood being drawn, as they were checking her levels. We got the results from that and everything is good. Her kidneys are a little stressed so she really needs to start drinking more, especially water. At least 2 liters or they will put her on an IV. We also found out that she didn't have to have the lumbar one since her spinal fluid looked good! We had two doctors look in her mouth and they were really impressed by how much it has shrunk. I asked them if it was rare to see, and they said that it is and it is also interesting for them to see cancer shrink like this in person instead of a scan. Great news!! They also came to talk to us about a donor, she doesn't need it now, but they want to test Shane to know if they have a match in case they need one. So of course, they are going to check with the insurance because it is a 10k procedure. Wow! Then they would like a full sibling (Rob just got by lol), to check. So if the insurance okays the check Shane will be up here in a couple of weeks to do so....just seems like a lot is going on. She finally got done with the two chemos so we are ready to leave. I don't want to sit in her any longer than necessary. I need to get going.
Thanks for keeping all the positive thoughts and prayers coming our way!! They are greatly appreciated.
Love and God Bless,
Cindi
It is 430 and we are still here! We arrived at 1230! It was super busy here and they had all her stuff planned for today. So we have been from room to room. We started with lots of blood being drawn, as they were checking her levels. We got the results from that and everything is good. Her kidneys are a little stressed so she really needs to start drinking more, especially water. At least 2 liters or they will put her on an IV. We also found out that she didn't have to have the lumbar one since her spinal fluid looked good! We had two doctors look in her mouth and they were really impressed by how much it has shrunk. I asked them if it was rare to see, and they said that it is and it is also interesting for them to see cancer shrink like this in person instead of a scan. Great news!! They also came to talk to us about a donor, she doesn't need it now, but they want to test Shane to know if they have a match in case they need one. So of course, they are going to check with the insurance because it is a 10k procedure. Wow! Then they would like a full sibling (Rob just got by lol), to check. So if the insurance okays the check Shane will be up here in a couple of weeks to do so....just seems like a lot is going on. She finally got done with the two chemos so we are ready to leave. I don't want to sit in her any longer than necessary. I need to get going.
Thanks for keeping all the positive thoughts and prayers coming our way!! They are greatly appreciated.
Love and God Bless,
Cindi
Sunday, November 15, 2009
November 15th
Hello All!
Jess was feeling pretty well this morning so we took her shopping at a few places before it got busy after church. We had to stop a few times and let her sit and then eat, but it was nice to have her out and about with us. We brought her thermometer and sanitizer and used them when we felt necessary. She lasted a couple of hours, but when she was done she was done!! We took her straight back and she was already napping on the couch shortly after :) I was really worried about her, but like I said before when she is determined to go somewhere or do something she usually gets it done. Tomorrow is another big day for her so she will need lots of rest tonight. She has 3 rounds of chemo tomorrow. 2 through her IV and PICC lines and then she will also be getting the spinal one as well. She is already dreading it!! I am off for now. I will let you all know how she does tomorrow. We need lots of positive thoughts and prayers.
Love, Cindi
Jess was feeling pretty well this morning so we took her shopping at a few places before it got busy after church. We had to stop a few times and let her sit and then eat, but it was nice to have her out and about with us. We brought her thermometer and sanitizer and used them when we felt necessary. She lasted a couple of hours, but when she was done she was done!! We took her straight back and she was already napping on the couch shortly after :) I was really worried about her, but like I said before when she is determined to go somewhere or do something she usually gets it done. Tomorrow is another big day for her so she will need lots of rest tonight. She has 3 rounds of chemo tomorrow. 2 through her IV and PICC lines and then she will also be getting the spinal one as well. She is already dreading it!! I am off for now. I will let you all know how she does tomorrow. We need lots of positive thoughts and prayers.
Love, Cindi
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Jessi's Birthday, November 14th
Happy 21st Birthday Jess!! Thanks to everyone who wished her a Happy Birthday!
We went to Shane's game last night and they won!! We told the boys that Jess was their good luck charm ;) It was a long trip for her and she really ended up not feeling very well, but she was determined to see her little brother play football! Especially since it is nearing the end of the season (could have been the last game). She took a few naps so I felt better about her having such a long day. When we got there Bonanza School had arranged, with North Douglas, for us to be able to park Jessi's pickup on the track. Thanks so much to both schools! It was damp and cold and there isn't anyway she would have been able to handle sitting out in the cold. The Drain School announcer talked about Jess, he wrote an amazing piece about her, and said how she was at the game to surprise her little brother...which it was really hard to fib to Shane about!! I can't even tell you how and what he said, but it was really amazing, he made us all cry in the pickup. He even mentioned her after the game and said Happy Birthday again. Wow!!
The Bonanza fans all came by and either talked to her or me. She was able to wear her mask to help with spreading of germs. It was an incredible night. Shane was very excited to have her there, and it was nice to have so much support and for her to be able to watch him. Jon made the long drive back to Portland. Needless to say that when I left the apartment he and Jess were still sleeping, lol. We are planning a fun day for her birthday, but will be keeping a close eye on her, to make sure she doesn't get too tired. We have family coming up so that will help make it extra special!
Thanks everyone again, God bless!
Love,
Cindi
We went to Shane's game last night and they won!! We told the boys that Jess was their good luck charm ;) It was a long trip for her and she really ended up not feeling very well, but she was determined to see her little brother play football! Especially since it is nearing the end of the season (could have been the last game). She took a few naps so I felt better about her having such a long day. When we got there Bonanza School had arranged, with North Douglas, for us to be able to park Jessi's pickup on the track. Thanks so much to both schools! It was damp and cold and there isn't anyway she would have been able to handle sitting out in the cold. The Drain School announcer talked about Jess, he wrote an amazing piece about her, and said how she was at the game to surprise her little brother...which it was really hard to fib to Shane about!! I can't even tell you how and what he said, but it was really amazing, he made us all cry in the pickup. He even mentioned her after the game and said Happy Birthday again. Wow!!
The Bonanza fans all came by and either talked to her or me. She was able to wear her mask to help with spreading of germs. It was an incredible night. Shane was very excited to have her there, and it was nice to have so much support and for her to be able to watch him. Jon made the long drive back to Portland. Needless to say that when I left the apartment he and Jess were still sleeping, lol. We are planning a fun day for her birthday, but will be keeping a close eye on her, to make sure she doesn't get too tired. We have family coming up so that will help make it extra special!
Thanks everyone again, God bless!
Love,
Cindi
Friday, November 13, 2009
Friday the 13th ;)
Good afternoon!
I am in the same location as yesterday :) Earl grey tea with vanilla cinnamon, is very tasty! lol. The doctors appointments were very long, but successful yesterday. We left the apartment around 1230 and didn't leave the doctor's office until 430!! Needless to say that Jess was extremely tired and so were Jon and I. We started in one building, where they drew her blood, and then had to go wait in another to get the results. If you have ever been to OHSU you know it isn't worth leaving and coming back...just to big and crazy! When the doctor (her secondary doctor) finally made it in she said that Jessi's blood results came in strong again and her liver results came back better. We were all really relieved to hear such good results. She said that we still need to be cautious of who and how many people are around, but not as cautious as we eventually will have to be. She is supposed to drink LOTs of fluids to help the chemo flow through. We are also told that we should be taking her temperature often to make sure that her temperature is normal and if it was high it is an indication that something is wrong. If it is above a 100.4 she needs to go to the ER immediately. Her head doctor happened to look in accidentally and when he saw Jess he asked how she was and he looked in her mouth to see the tumor. He was amazed!! He had looked at it on Monday and said that he noticed visible shrinkage!! We are all excited and WE KNOW that it is doing it to all the other cancer in her body. Thank you for all the prayers and positive energy! I know that it is helping her beat this!!!!
Love you all,
Cindi
I am in the same location as yesterday :) Earl grey tea with vanilla cinnamon, is very tasty! lol. The doctors appointments were very long, but successful yesterday. We left the apartment around 1230 and didn't leave the doctor's office until 430!! Needless to say that Jess was extremely tired and so were Jon and I. We started in one building, where they drew her blood, and then had to go wait in another to get the results. If you have ever been to OHSU you know it isn't worth leaving and coming back...just to big and crazy! When the doctor (her secondary doctor) finally made it in she said that Jessi's blood results came in strong again and her liver results came back better. We were all really relieved to hear such good results. She said that we still need to be cautious of who and how many people are around, but not as cautious as we eventually will have to be. She is supposed to drink LOTs of fluids to help the chemo flow through. We are also told that we should be taking her temperature often to make sure that her temperature is normal and if it was high it is an indication that something is wrong. If it is above a 100.4 she needs to go to the ER immediately. Her head doctor happened to look in accidentally and when he saw Jess he asked how she was and he looked in her mouth to see the tumor. He was amazed!! He had looked at it on Monday and said that he noticed visible shrinkage!! We are all excited and WE KNOW that it is doing it to all the other cancer in her body. Thank you for all the prayers and positive energy! I know that it is helping her beat this!!!!
Love you all,
Cindi
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Sorry, I am posting these for my aunt...she writes them! Got to this late today :)
Good morning!! I am sitting in Barnes and Noble this morning because we don't have internet at the apartment, so I had to find somewhere to get on, lol. I figured that I would be in trouble if I didn't get on to do the blog :)
Jess had a rough night last night, she was not sleeping well and was pretty restless. We have a Doctor appointment later today, so we figured that we can find out if there is anything she can do to get a better nights sleep. She is bruising very easily and getting itchy...we are not sure if that is from all the meds she is on. We are going to see what we can do to help with that, if anything.
We get to find out her blood counts today and see how they are. We are hoping that they are up that way she doesn't have to limit her diet or restrict the amount of people she can be around! We are hoping her immune system is strong enough so she doesn't start catching everything!
She is hoping to go to Shane's game tomorrow...it is a secret from him, shhhh ;) it will depend on her results today. We are also hoping that she can sit in her pickup and be able to watch and stay warm!!
Thank you so much for the positive energy, thoughts, and prayers. I know that they are all really helping her!
Love to all,
Cindi
Good morning!! I am sitting in Barnes and Noble this morning because we don't have internet at the apartment, so I had to find somewhere to get on, lol. I figured that I would be in trouble if I didn't get on to do the blog :)
Jess had a rough night last night, she was not sleeping well and was pretty restless. We have a Doctor appointment later today, so we figured that we can find out if there is anything she can do to get a better nights sleep. She is bruising very easily and getting itchy...we are not sure if that is from all the meds she is on. We are going to see what we can do to help with that, if anything.
We get to find out her blood counts today and see how they are. We are hoping that they are up that way she doesn't have to limit her diet or restrict the amount of people she can be around! We are hoping her immune system is strong enough so she doesn't start catching everything!
She is hoping to go to Shane's game tomorrow...it is a secret from him, shhhh ;) it will depend on her results today. We are also hoping that she can sit in her pickup and be able to watch and stay warm!!
Thank you so much for the positive energy, thoughts, and prayers. I know that they are all really helping her!
Love to all,
Cindi
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
November 11th
Hello,
Jess is feeling better today! We put all her pills out and spread out when she takes them that way she isn't taking as many as once, so they don't have such a strong effect and make her so jittery! It scares me when things are bother her, like last night, I wanted to rush her back to the hospital! But with her sleeping pills and the window open (she keeps getting night sweats), she slept better than she has since this has all happened. Today has been a really good day! Tomorrow we have to go into the hospital for all of her blood tests. They are going to check her count, if she has a low count then we will have to be really careful of germs and she will have to go on a low bacterial diet.
If you have something you want to send to her, please don't send it to the hospital anymore. You can give it to my husband Pat or Bonanza School so they can give it to Shane to bring home. If you would like a physical address to mail anything to please email me: ckelfam5@aol.com and I will let you know where to send it.
Jessi's 21st Birthday is this weekend. We are all super excited. We are hoping that her count will be okay, so she can have somewhat of a normal party, minus Vegas and drinks lol.
Love to all, thank you for the prayers!!
<3 Cindi
Jess is feeling better today! We put all her pills out and spread out when she takes them that way she isn't taking as many as once, so they don't have such a strong effect and make her so jittery! It scares me when things are bother her, like last night, I wanted to rush her back to the hospital! But with her sleeping pills and the window open (she keeps getting night sweats), she slept better than she has since this has all happened. Today has been a really good day! Tomorrow we have to go into the hospital for all of her blood tests. They are going to check her count, if she has a low count then we will have to be really careful of germs and she will have to go on a low bacterial diet.
If you have something you want to send to her, please don't send it to the hospital anymore. You can give it to my husband Pat or Bonanza School so they can give it to Shane to bring home. If you would like a physical address to mail anything to please email me: ckelfam5@aol.com and I will let you know where to send it.
Jessi's 21st Birthday is this weekend. We are all super excited. We are hoping that her count will be okay, so she can have somewhat of a normal party, minus Vegas and drinks lol.
Love to all, thank you for the prayers!!
<3 Cindi
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
November 10th
Hi all!! As you know we stayed in the apartment last night! Wow it was nice. Jess didn't sleep to well though, she didn't have her sleeping meds yet and she is taking a lot of steroids which keep her awake. This morning they called and got all of her medical stuff delivered to the apartment, it was really cool! It is a little overwhelming that we have to keep track of so many medications. I went and got an extra large pill day box, so hopefully that will help keep us organized. We also have to flush her pick lines daily to keep them open and take her temperature; so I am going out to get her a thermometer today too. She is allowed to leave today, but was too tired, so I left her lounging on the couch with the remote, lol. We will get to see on Thursday if she is allowed to keep her regular diet, so keep your fingers crossed. I went and got all kinds of antibacterial soaps and wipes for around the apartment too.
Thanks for checking up on Jess and all of your prayers and thoughts.
Love to all,
Cindi
Thanks for checking up on Jess and all of your prayers and thoughts.
Love to all,
Cindi
Monday, November 9, 2009
November 9th
Good news today! Jess got out of the hospital (OHSU) and is allowed to stay in the apartment that Jon's families friends have allowed us to use. They gave her tons of medicine, she has to take about 25 pills a day! It is going to be a little crazy getting used to at first. She has to go back in on Thursdays for checkups: blood work and tests, etc. On Mondays she will get her chemo treatments. She is allowed to go out in public, she just needs to wear a mask and steer clear of sick people. We don't have to wear a mask around her right now because her blood count is high enough. They said that younger patients take longer to have lower counts, which we are thankful for! Jessi has to stay up in Portland for at least 3 more weeks. Then it looks like she will be released to receive her treatments, overseen by OHSU through Medford.
It was quite a day for her today. She woke up feeling very tired, and with getting her prescriptions, paperwork, etc, she was pretty exhausted by the time she got the the apartment, and started feeling sick to her stomach. We also need to keep her on a strict diet, to make sure that she doesn't get too much bacteria into her system. But, they also said she was allowed to go and eat out if she felt up to the task. It will be really nice for her to feel like she has some independence. She was really excited to be able to leave today.
I will try to keep you posted on how she feels the next couple of days. We will let you know how the trip to the doctor goes on Thursday! Hopefully she stays strong and healthy being out of the hospital.
Thanks and God Bless,
Cindi :)
It was quite a day for her today. She woke up feeling very tired, and with getting her prescriptions, paperwork, etc, she was pretty exhausted by the time she got the the apartment, and started feeling sick to her stomach. We also need to keep her on a strict diet, to make sure that she doesn't get too much bacteria into her system. But, they also said she was allowed to go and eat out if she felt up to the task. It will be really nice for her to feel like she has some independence. She was really excited to be able to leave today.
I will try to keep you posted on how she feels the next couple of days. We will let you know how the trip to the doctor goes on Thursday! Hopefully she stays strong and healthy being out of the hospital.
Thanks and God Bless,
Cindi :)
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Special Thanks, November 8th
Good day today. Jessi's appetite has been really good and she hasn't had any nausea so far today, we are all really happy. She has been itchy and they are wondering if the morphine is possibly giving her an allergic reaction. They are going to check on her after she showers and still see if she has it then. They may end up putting her on an antihistamine. The doctor came in and checked the tumor in her mouth and feels like it has shrunk. I actually started to tear up because I was so happy to hear that, it is nice to hear that she is beginning to make some progress.
They have put her on a rinse twice a day to help keep her mouth really clean, to help keep infection out of the tumor. If she can keep up the chemo without any nausea that will be really great, and they may end up letting her stay at the condo and just come in for treatments.
During the month of October there was a blog post that had the address to the hospital so people could send cards and prayers if they liked...we weren't sure if some people never saw it. We heard that there was a Spaghetti feed in Bonanza as well as the can food drive. Plus the SEOPHC club is putting on a horse show to benefit Jess in March and possibly a gaming show too. Also, my niece Laura started a fund at South Valley. We cannot believe the support that we are receiving and cannot thank everyone enough. It has helped out immensely. All the prayers and support have helped keep everyone's spirits up!!
Thank you all and God Bless!! Thank you for continuing your support and following her progress. We are so happy that she has been on lots of prayer chains!!!
Love,
Cindi
They have put her on a rinse twice a day to help keep her mouth really clean, to help keep infection out of the tumor. If she can keep up the chemo without any nausea that will be really great, and they may end up letting her stay at the condo and just come in for treatments.
During the month of October there was a blog post that had the address to the hospital so people could send cards and prayers if they liked...we weren't sure if some people never saw it. We heard that there was a Spaghetti feed in Bonanza as well as the can food drive. Plus the SEOPHC club is putting on a horse show to benefit Jess in March and possibly a gaming show too. Also, my niece Laura started a fund at South Valley. We cannot believe the support that we are receiving and cannot thank everyone enough. It has helped out immensely. All the prayers and support have helped keep everyone's spirits up!!
Thank you all and God Bless!! Thank you for continuing your support and following her progress. We are so happy that she has been on lots of prayer chains!!!
Love,
Cindi
Saturday, November 7, 2009
November 7th
Hello All!
After a fun filled (not!) trip to Bonanza, we rushed back to Portland to be with Jessi. She received her 2nd and 3rd dose of chemo. I was upset that I wasn't able to make it back in time for her first one, but Jon was with her so that made it easier. They switched her nausea medicine around so hopefully she will not be violently ill this time. She was just waking up when we got here, so it was good timing. It is a little scary because the lumbar chemo seems like it is the most important and it is hard to see her not feeling well. They just finished up with the other two and she is doing well; although she is extremely tired. Pat and Robbie came up and will be here until Monday. Shane had to catch up on some work this weekend and was unable to make it. I will let you all know how she is feeling tomorrow. Thanks for checking up on her and staying proactive in prayers as this she has a long road ahead of her.
Love you all,
Cindi
After a fun filled (not!) trip to Bonanza, we rushed back to Portland to be with Jessi. She received her 2nd and 3rd dose of chemo. I was upset that I wasn't able to make it back in time for her first one, but Jon was with her so that made it easier. They switched her nausea medicine around so hopefully she will not be violently ill this time. She was just waking up when we got here, so it was good timing. It is a little scary because the lumbar chemo seems like it is the most important and it is hard to see her not feeling well. They just finished up with the other two and she is doing well; although she is extremely tired. Pat and Robbie came up and will be here until Monday. Shane had to catch up on some work this weekend and was unable to make it. I will let you all know how she is feeling tomorrow. Thanks for checking up on her and staying proactive in prayers as this she has a long road ahead of her.
Love you all,
Cindi
Friday, November 6, 2009
November 6th
Hi to all! My sister and I made a quick visit to Jess this morning before we headed to Bend. I am going to go down to Shane's Senior Recognition Night for football in Bonanza. Although, I am going to turn around and come back to Portland first thing in the morning because Jess is starting another round of chemo. She is going to get two different kinds as well as the spinal one (lumbar). The spinal one is the chemo that made her really sick last time, this time it is slightly different so they are hoping it doesn't have the same effect. It pushes the chemo up into her head and brain and so she is feeling a little overwhelmed. It will be nice to go and support Shane (especially since it is his senior year) and Jess wanted me to, but she said come right back, lol. The nurse practitioner came in this morning and said that they were keeping an eye on her liver. It seems to be getting a little stressed from all the chemo and it also has a tumor on it that I wasn't aware of...I seem to be on a need to know basis, lol. I wasn't in the room when the initial results were told, so I missed that piece of information somehow. Jess says that they said keep doing what she is doing and they will keep an eye on it. Keep up the prayers, she will need lots tomorrow for her long day!!! Thank you for all the support.
Cindi
Cindi
Thursday, November 5, 2009
November 5th
Hi All,
Not much to report today. Jess is about the same...maybe a little more tired. The nurse had to make her walk around today, and she actually did 4 laps once she got going. Which is wonderful! They said her blood count is looking strong still, but will start declining as the chemo works its way through. She ate well at breakfast and at lunch, they said that is because the steroids are keeping her appetite up. Jess seems to like the snacks and drinks I got at the store for her, so I went and picked some more up. Jon went and picked up some movies so they can watch those when they get sick of the TV. The hospital has a DVD player in the room so that is a definite advantage, we aren't stuck watching cable all day!
That is all I have for now.
Love to all and God Bless,
Cindi
Not much to report today. Jess is about the same...maybe a little more tired. The nurse had to make her walk around today, and she actually did 4 laps once she got going. Which is wonderful! They said her blood count is looking strong still, but will start declining as the chemo works its way through. She ate well at breakfast and at lunch, they said that is because the steroids are keeping her appetite up. Jess seems to like the snacks and drinks I got at the store for her, so I went and picked some more up. Jon went and picked up some movies so they can watch those when they get sick of the TV. The hospital has a DVD player in the room so that is a definite advantage, we aren't stuck watching cable all day!
That is all I have for now.
Love to all and God Bless,
Cindi
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
November 4th
Hello All,
Jess had a good day today. In fact she made Jon and me walk 5 laps around the floor! lol. The chemo from yesterday isn't as intense as when she gets it in the IV. The doctors said the steroids are the reason she has this sudden burst of energy. They actually make her edgy and she was unable to sleep last night, so they gave her two sleeping pills to help make her more comfortable. The doctor came in when I was here today and he is hoping that he can let her leave next Tues or Weds to go stay at Jon's Grandma's friend's apartment. Then she would have to come back for her treatments. He said that it is a big IF because she has an open lesion (the tumor) in her mouth. He said that he is afraid it might get infected when her blood count goes down. So we are just hoping for the best and her possible escape from the hospital for a few days! I also went to look at some wigs today, but it wasn't open yet, so I just window shopped. I saw some super cute and nice ones that I think Jess may like, so I am excited to go an look for her when it is open. That is all the info for now. Thank you all for following Jess' story and getting on here to support her.
Keep up all the prayers and God Bless.
Cindi
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
November 3rd
Jess looks really good this morning. She at well at breakfast and lunch. I went to the store yesterday and bought her some frozen meals and snacks (goldfish crackers, suckers, vitamin waters, etc)...just in case she doesn't like what they are having :) I have to be careful when I buy certain items since she is on a low bacterial diet. However, I do want to help keep her appetite and strength up, so thought I would try to buy things that would improve her appetite. She had 3 shots of pediatric chemo around 11 am today and so we are hoping that it doesn't make her sick. They would like us to watch out for headaches, which could be an indication of a blood clot in the brain, but they do not think that is likely...thankfully!!! They had us ice both of her shoulders before they gave her shots, since they are known to hurt and burn. She said that the shots only made her arms feel really heavy and weighed down. She started to notice some hair falling out today. She is a little upset, but I told her we saw a wig shop not far away. I told her that I would pop in tomorrow and see what they had. She would like a cute upbeat short one.
Thanks for following her blog and seeing how she is doing. Thank you for all the prayers, keep them up!!
Love to all,
Cindi
Thanks for following her blog and seeing how she is doing. Thank you for all the prayers, keep them up!!
Love to all,
Cindi
Monday, November 2, 2009
November 2nd
Hello All,
Better news today, Jess is feeling a lot better after her rough day yesterday. A new doctor came in for the month (he is highly recommended), he said that if Jess stays strong enough during the next few chemo treatments she maybe able to leave after the next 3 weeks of treatments. She would just need to come back to the hospital to finish out the regiment and then possibly get the rest in Klamath of Medford over the next 18-24 months. Please pray that she will be able to stay strong enough and the treatments work as they hope so this is possible.
Thank you and God Bless.
Better news today, Jess is feeling a lot better after her rough day yesterday. A new doctor came in for the month (he is highly recommended), he said that if Jess stays strong enough during the next few chemo treatments she maybe able to leave after the next 3 weeks of treatments. She would just need to come back to the hospital to finish out the regiment and then possibly get the rest in Klamath of Medford over the next 18-24 months. Please pray that she will be able to stay strong enough and the treatments work as they hope so this is possible.
Thank you and God Bless.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
November 1st
Quick update on Jess:
Jessi had two kinds of chemo yesterday. One shot in her IV and then the other one takes about 20 minutes. She is given chemo again on day 8, 15, and 22. She also gets another pediatric chemo IV shot next week. She felt fine last night after the chemo, and we were all really hopeful that she would not feel sick at all. I think we counted our eggs a little too soon! She woke up this morning with a really bad headache; so she ate breakfast hoping that may help. A couple hours later she got nauseous and has been sick a couple times so far. Not as bad as last time; so we are keeping our fingers crossed. The nurse came in and gave her some anti-nausea medicine. Hopefully that will help!!
The prayers and the cards from Bonanza School/Community were appreciated very much. They are in her room and add color and encouragement.
Thank you all for staying updated on her progress and keeping positive thoughts coming our way!
Jessi had two kinds of chemo yesterday. One shot in her IV and then the other one takes about 20 minutes. She is given chemo again on day 8, 15, and 22. She also gets another pediatric chemo IV shot next week. She felt fine last night after the chemo, and we were all really hopeful that she would not feel sick at all. I think we counted our eggs a little too soon! She woke up this morning with a really bad headache; so she ate breakfast hoping that may help. A couple hours later she got nauseous and has been sick a couple times so far. Not as bad as last time; so we are keeping our fingers crossed. The nurse came in and gave her some anti-nausea medicine. Hopefully that will help!!
The prayers and the cards from Bonanza School/Community were appreciated very much. They are in her room and add color and encouragement.
Thank you all for staying updated on her progress and keeping positive thoughts coming our way!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
October 31st
Hello All,
Jess starts chemo today. They say that it shouldn't make her nauseous....we are hoping that it won't!! She will get three shots of chemo instead of being on an IV. The regiment will be about a month long. She looks strong and they started giving her steroids yesterday to help boost her immune system and her strength.
We have been given a lot of information in the last day. Her bone marrow and blood look good. They found a tennis ball size near her uterus and also has lots of hot spots starting. This is a very aggressive cancer so they are going to treat it so. She is having treatments done similar to pediatric treatments because of her age. She is in the adult unit though; because they feel that she will be more comfortable. After 18-24 months of treatment the doctors said that there is an 80 % chance that it will be in remission indefinitely.
Her room is nice and has a view of the city. She can walk around the unit and have as many vistors as she wants. They make you wear gloves, gown, and mask when you visit. She also has to wear a mask when she leaves her room. They are strict on checking to make sure visitors do not have any cold of flu symptoms before they allow them in the unit.
Thank you and keep praying!!
Jess starts chemo today. They say that it shouldn't make her nauseous....we are hoping that it won't!! She will get three shots of chemo instead of being on an IV. The regiment will be about a month long. She looks strong and they started giving her steroids yesterday to help boost her immune system and her strength.
We have been given a lot of information in the last day. Her bone marrow and blood look good. They found a tennis ball size near her uterus and also has lots of hot spots starting. This is a very aggressive cancer so they are going to treat it so. She is having treatments done similar to pediatric treatments because of her age. She is in the adult unit though; because they feel that she will be more comfortable. After 18-24 months of treatment the doctors said that there is an 80 % chance that it will be in remission indefinitely.
Her room is nice and has a view of the city. She can walk around the unit and have as many vistors as she wants. They make you wear gloves, gown, and mask when you visit. She also has to wear a mask when she leaves her room. They are strict on checking to make sure visitors do not have any cold of flu symptoms before they allow them in the unit.
Thank you and keep praying!!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
How the community, friends, and family can help
Hello All,
We have an account set-up to help pay for expenses related to Jessi's care. This account is at South Valley Bank and Trust and will benefit the Kelly-Unruh family in the difficult days ahead. If you would like to make a donation, please make it to Jessica Kelly-Unruh Fund.
Address:
P.O. Box 5210
Attn: Jessica Kelly-Unruh Fund
Klamath Falls, Oregon 97601
Also, Betsy Crouch, my aunt has started a prayer chain in Jessi's room. If you would like to participate please write your prayer for Jess on a 3 x 7 thick piece of paper. The will be stapled together and hung around her room for inspiration.
Mailing Address:
Patient: Jessica Kelly c/o OHSU
Mail Code: KPV14
808 SW Campus Dr
Portland, OR 97239
Please do not send flowers or plants as she will not be able to accept them.
We have an account set-up to help pay for expenses related to Jessi's care. This account is at South Valley Bank and Trust and will benefit the Kelly-Unruh family in the difficult days ahead. If you would like to make a donation, please make it to Jessica Kelly-Unruh Fund.
Address:
P.O. Box 5210
Attn: Jessica Kelly-Unruh Fund
Klamath Falls, Oregon 97601
Also, Betsy Crouch, my aunt has started a prayer chain in Jessi's room. If you would like to participate please write your prayer for Jess on a 3 x 7 thick piece of paper. The will be stapled together and hung around her room for inspiration.
Mailing Address:
Patient: Jessica Kelly c/o OHSU
Mail Code: KPV14
808 SW Campus Dr
Portland, OR 97239
Please do not send flowers or plants as she will not be able to accept them.
October 29th
Last night during Jesssi's spinal tap they decided to let some chemotherapy run through her system. Not only was the spinal tap hard on her, but the chemo made her sick for about four hours. They are running more tests on her today: MRI, CT/PET Scan. Once they know where the cancer is exactly they will design her treatment.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
October 28th
As many of you may know. Jessi is up at OHSU (Oregon Health Sciences University, in Portland Oregon) Jessi has yet to begin treatment. They were testing her heart for its strength and her blood flow to make sure that the chemotherapy will run through her blood stream properly. She also had a very painful experience today; they took out her bone marrow and also did a spinal tap. She was in a lot of pain, but has been very brave throughout the entire experience.
The hospital is very accommodating; they let her wear her own clothes and allow her to have a computer in her room. She has a great view and they are letting both her mother and husband sleep in the room at night. They are also very strict on allowing people in the cancer unit. They will not allow anyone in with a cough, headache, sore throat, stuffy nose, etc. If she is feeling up for it, she is allowed to have as many healthy visitors as she would like though.
We will keep you posted on results, tests, and treatment as it becomes available.
Thank you and God Bless,
Laura
The hospital is very accommodating; they let her wear her own clothes and allow her to have a computer in her room. She has a great view and they are letting both her mother and husband sleep in the room at night. They are also very strict on allowing people in the cancer unit. They will not allow anyone in with a cough, headache, sore throat, stuffy nose, etc. If she is feeling up for it, she is allowed to have as many healthy visitors as she would like though.
We will keep you posted on results, tests, and treatment as it becomes available.
Thank you and God Bless,
Laura
Jessica's Fight
Hello All,
Thank you for visiting this blog site. My name is Laura Lathrop, I am Jessica’s cousin. As you must know, because you are vising this site, Jessi has been diagnosed with lymphoma leukemia. We have set this blog up to update you on her progress, her life, and her battle against cancer. Please stay tuned as I will update you with information as I know it, but her mother Cindi Kelly will be the one updating you as time moves on.
Thank you and God Bless for visiting.
Thank you for visiting this blog site. My name is Laura Lathrop, I am Jessica’s cousin. As you must know, because you are vising this site, Jessi has been diagnosed with lymphoma leukemia. We have set this blog up to update you on her progress, her life, and her battle against cancer. Please stay tuned as I will update you with information as I know it, but her mother Cindi Kelly will be the one updating you as time moves on.
Thank you and God Bless for visiting.
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