Monday, July 31, 2006
Change of plans...
Change of plans - the dates have been bumped over by one day. Wed. and Thursday - the same appt. times apply, just one day later. Sorry about the mix up Bill.
Late Monday ...
Busy day today ...
The first thing I did was to go by CVT where I work to let them try and find this "spot" with ultrasound. We saw what could have possibly been the spot seen on the CT scan, but it was so faint that we really could not call it either way. The CT scan is X-ray and a contrast agent was used, so the two are not to be compared like apples to apples. They can compliment each other and confirm sometimes, so just because one does not see what the other did see does not mean one is wrong. If this makes any sense ...
We will be heading out Tues. morning to get to the first apt. at 1:15 pm. Depending on what they say, we may or may not go to the next one on Wed. at 11 am. You have to be your best advocate when it comes to medical treatment. Just because they say so, don't make it so.
I went by Pete DeJohn's office today. He and his wife and Nicole prayed for me concerning healing. We had a good time in prayer and fellowship. I have not seen Pete in a long time, so we caught up real quick. He gave me a book written by Darlene Bishop "Your life follows Your words". I am trying to get it read today if possible.
How about that rain and the lightening show? We had a good one out here in Central. I was in the store when the worst of it hit the area and kids were screaming in the store with every strike. Before this, Robin and I got some grass cut but not nearly all of it. It will be there when I get back.
Food is tasting a little better and I don't have the burning sensation as before - unless of course I get something really spicy - but regular food is okay. I also have noticed that I am not as tired throughout the day as before. That just goes to show you how chemo can slow you down. But thank God it is available if we need it.
Looking forward to getting the next two days behind me.
Bill "the ice man" is going to be riding shotgun with me. We are going to have some good fellowship on the way.
The Word says, "Though God we shall do valiantly, for it is He who shall tread down our enemies". (Ps.60:12) The battle is the Lord's, we just have to continue to believe (trust in, cling to and rely upon - as the Amplified Bible defines believe).
The joy of the Lord is our strength. God Bless GW
The first thing I did was to go by CVT where I work to let them try and find this "spot" with ultrasound. We saw what could have possibly been the spot seen on the CT scan, but it was so faint that we really could not call it either way. The CT scan is X-ray and a contrast agent was used, so the two are not to be compared like apples to apples. They can compliment each other and confirm sometimes, so just because one does not see what the other did see does not mean one is wrong. If this makes any sense ...
We will be heading out Tues. morning to get to the first apt. at 1:15 pm. Depending on what they say, we may or may not go to the next one on Wed. at 11 am. You have to be your best advocate when it comes to medical treatment. Just because they say so, don't make it so.
I went by Pete DeJohn's office today. He and his wife and Nicole prayed for me concerning healing. We had a good time in prayer and fellowship. I have not seen Pete in a long time, so we caught up real quick. He gave me a book written by Darlene Bishop "Your life follows Your words". I am trying to get it read today if possible.
How about that rain and the lightening show? We had a good one out here in Central. I was in the store when the worst of it hit the area and kids were screaming in the store with every strike. Before this, Robin and I got some grass cut but not nearly all of it. It will be there when I get back.
Food is tasting a little better and I don't have the burning sensation as before - unless of course I get something really spicy - but regular food is okay. I also have noticed that I am not as tired throughout the day as before. That just goes to show you how chemo can slow you down. But thank God it is available if we need it.
Looking forward to getting the next two days behind me.
Bill "the ice man" is going to be riding shotgun with me. We are going to have some good fellowship on the way.
The Word says, "Though God we shall do valiantly, for it is He who shall tread down our enemies". (Ps.60:12) The battle is the Lord's, we just have to continue to believe (trust in, cling to and rely upon - as the Amplified Bible defines believe).
The joy of the Lord is our strength. God Bless GW
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Robin..
Wow!! What a crazy couple of days it has been. We at the Waites' house are keeping our eyes on Jesus and living life. Please do not dispair about the situation, but keep your eyes fixed on the Author and Finisher of our faith. All we know is that we are pressing in to see what the Lord has for us. We have squared our shoulders in the name of Jesus and are watching for our breakthrough.
Some of you have felt the need to fast on George's behalf and I think that is awesome as the Lord calls and directs. I want to put these scriptures out again because they are the scriptures I continue to bring before the Lord. They are :
Psalm 91:15,16- "He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him, and honor him. 16 "With long life I will satisfy him, and let him behold My salvation.
Psalm 103:1-5-Bless the Lord O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name. 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; 3 Who pardons all your iniquities; who heals all your diseases; 4 who redeems your life from the pit; who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; 5 who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagles.
Psalm 118:17-18-I shall not die, but live, and tell of the works of the Lord. The Lord has disciplined me severly, but he has not given me over to death.
Matthew 21:21-22-And Jesus answered and said to them, "Truly I say to you, if you have faith, and do not doubt, you shall not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ' Be taken up and cast into the sea.' it shall happen. 22 "And all things you ask in prayer, believing you shall receive."
John 14:11-14 and 15:7-"Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me; otherwise believe on account of the miracles themselves. 12 Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go to the Father. 13 "and whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 "If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it. 15"If you love Me, you will keep my commandments. 15:7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you.
This is the basis for which we stand believing. We ask because the Word says we can and should, we expect because that is what believing and faith is about. In my heart and mind there is no room for doubt, so constantly I bring down thoughts making them obedient to the Word. Our Father is not a liar and His Word is true. Stand saints, not just for us (GEORGE) but for yourselves and your families and the breakthroughs you need. We have been given the challenge to battle cancer, but what is your battle? The Word of the Lord is true and you can and should believe it for your own situations as well. I pray that as you spend time lifting us up God supernaturally begins answering the prayers you have prayed for your own situations. George and I love you all very much and cannot express in words what strength we draw from each of you. We are not in the battle alone and our Lord is the Captain of the Host. Wow victory is assured.
Robin
Some of you have felt the need to fast on George's behalf and I think that is awesome as the Lord calls and directs. I want to put these scriptures out again because they are the scriptures I continue to bring before the Lord. They are :
Psalm 91:15,16- "He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him, and honor him. 16 "With long life I will satisfy him, and let him behold My salvation.
Psalm 103:1-5-Bless the Lord O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name. 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; 3 Who pardons all your iniquities; who heals all your diseases; 4 who redeems your life from the pit; who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; 5 who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagles.
Psalm 118:17-18-I shall not die, but live, and tell of the works of the Lord. The Lord has disciplined me severly, but he has not given me over to death.
Matthew 21:21-22-And Jesus answered and said to them, "Truly I say to you, if you have faith, and do not doubt, you shall not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ' Be taken up and cast into the sea.' it shall happen. 22 "And all things you ask in prayer, believing you shall receive."
John 14:11-14 and 15:7-"Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me; otherwise believe on account of the miracles themselves. 12 Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go to the Father. 13 "and whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 "If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it. 15"If you love Me, you will keep my commandments. 15:7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you.
This is the basis for which we stand believing. We ask because the Word says we can and should, we expect because that is what believing and faith is about. In my heart and mind there is no room for doubt, so constantly I bring down thoughts making them obedient to the Word. Our Father is not a liar and His Word is true. Stand saints, not just for us (GEORGE) but for yourselves and your families and the breakthroughs you need. We have been given the challenge to battle cancer, but what is your battle? The Word of the Lord is true and you can and should believe it for your own situations as well. I pray that as you spend time lifting us up God supernaturally begins answering the prayers you have prayed for your own situations. George and I love you all very much and cannot express in words what strength we draw from each of you. We are not in the battle alone and our Lord is the Captain of the Host. Wow victory is assured.
Robin
Change of plans ...
Quick update - My Dr. called us (in person) Friday afternoon about 6 pm to let us know that there was a scheduling mix up and that we did not have an appt with him this Monday. He apologized about the mix-up. The correct times are Tues. I meet with biopsy team and then Wed. have the biopsy at 11 am. Had we known this we would have left Thursday morning. So we kicked it into high gear, loaded the van and then headed home as fast as we legally could. We got in after midnight and unloaded. Can you believe I slept till 9 am this morning! Now that ain't normal.
We picked up the dog from the kennel and he was some excited to see us and to get into his own house. I know for me it was great to wake up at home in my own bed. Like Dorothy said, "there's no place like home". We thank God for the safe trip home and watching over us while in Houston.
The garden and the grass has grown. The place looks great. The A/C is working. The mail our neighbor was collecting weighed about 10 lbs. - in it was my back ordered garden magazine issues. So today we will be organizing our lives because school starts next week for Robin and the week after for the kids. Time is flying by.
Will blog more later. GW
We picked up the dog from the kennel and he was some excited to see us and to get into his own house. I know for me it was great to wake up at home in my own bed. Like Dorothy said, "there's no place like home". We thank God for the safe trip home and watching over us while in Houston.
The garden and the grass has grown. The place looks great. The A/C is working. The mail our neighbor was collecting weighed about 10 lbs. - in it was my back ordered garden magazine issues. So today we will be organizing our lives because school starts next week for Robin and the week after for the kids. Time is flying by.
Will blog more later. GW
Friday, July 28, 2006
Museum day ...
We decided it would be a day to start real early. And that we did. We ate a good breakfast and headed out to the Museum of Natural History. We saw one IMAX movie, a planetarium presentation, the butterfly building (something to see if you are in the area) and the dinosaur/etc. museum exhibit. The exhibit of the human skin/muscle stuff - cadavers is what it is - in different positions of movement. I felt that was a little weird so we did not see that one. A good time was had by all.
There is a really nice statue of Sam Houston in a circle with some gorgeous landscaping. As we walked up a small bunny rabbit was just sitting there eating by the walkway. Got a good camera video of it but then he ran into the bushes. That was a neat surprise.
We came home around 4 pm so I could lay down a while but the rest of my crew is out playing at the rec room or with Austin next door.
You all have been super. I'll thankyou again for all of the prayer support. He said to "ask, and it shall be given" and also "where two or more are gathered in my name there I am in their midst". We are believing for God to move. I will blog some more later. GW.
There is a really nice statue of Sam Houston in a circle with some gorgeous landscaping. As we walked up a small bunny rabbit was just sitting there eating by the walkway. Got a good camera video of it but then he ran into the bushes. That was a neat surprise.
We came home around 4 pm so I could lay down a while but the rest of my crew is out playing at the rec room or with Austin next door.
You all have been super. I'll thankyou again for all of the prayer support. He said to "ask, and it shall be given" and also "where two or more are gathered in my name there I am in their midst". We are believing for God to move. I will blog some more later. GW.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
God is good ...
We ate at Papdeaux's Seaffod Rest. tonight. We told the kids about how good it was when Bob and Pat took us out to eat back when we first came to Houston. It was delicious. And you know we had to bring half of it home since they give you so much to eat. We then went by the store called Fiesta (I refer to it as the Fiesta Bowl). The bulk dried fruit ilse is similar to the ones you find at Whole Foods - except Whole Foods is a little classier I think. Me and Lauren can tear up a whole bag of dried Mango slices in no time.
I also called and spoke with some family tonight. Talked myself hoarse. Bryan is playing with Austin and Robin and Lauren were finishing up a table puzzle in the rec room. I hung around to make the calls and surf the web for some ideas.
God's goodness is all around us. He has shown Himself faithful when we are not, because He cannot deny Himself. He gives and gives and gives. Hopefully we can turn around and be imitators of God and do the same.
With lots of Thankfulness, George. ><:::}*>
I also called and spoke with some family tonight. Talked myself hoarse. Bryan is playing with Austin and Robin and Lauren were finishing up a table puzzle in the rec room. I hung around to make the calls and surf the web for some ideas.
God's goodness is all around us. He has shown Himself faithful when we are not, because He cannot deny Himself. He gives and gives and gives. Hopefully we can turn around and be imitators of God and do the same.
With lots of Thankfulness, George. ><:::}*>
T-shirt ..
We watched a movie after leaving the hospital yesterday (the Pirate movie) during which I started ' itching '. I got home and noticed what appeared to be whelps at the ankles, knees and some on the high rear thighs (where my butt used to be about 8 months ago). I know the antibiotics mention rashes, etc. in the side effects literature, but I also did not rule out chigger bugs or something like that. No one else was itching so I figured it was the meds causing it. Early this morning about 2:30 am I woke up with the kind itching that makes you want to claw the skin to the bone - so I took a benedryl tab and went back to bed. I woke up so refreshed and full of energy. Could that be the benedryl? The itching was gone to. I even made up my bed and then closed it (the fold out couch bed) which surprised Robin.
My temp. is normal, thankyou Jesus. The big "D" - which rhymes with a small flightless bird is still present since the CT scan, so that I attribute to the antibiotics. I finish those in two days so I'll just hang on. I am getting some probiotics from the healthfood store today to help my good bacteria get a boost.
I just got a call from the Dr. we saw yesterday and we have an appt. lined up this coming Monday at 11:30 am to discuss the CT of the lung according o he nurse. I was a little confused since a radiologist has already previewed it and I was allowed to go home. This maybe related to him wanting to put me on prednisone for the cough/bronchial stuff. He said some of his other patients who are on Gemzar developed a cough exaclty like mine. It is a condition which I believe he called 'pneumotitis' which is a benign condition which goes away afterwards. So I will blog those results after we meet with him Monday.
The movie: Neat special effects, some weird looking creatures for sure, almost action overload for a 42 year old guy like me - plenty of action. And it will leave you wanting to see the next movie to find out what happens. That, I told the kids, is how Hollywood sucks you in with their stroy telling and then gets your money.
The T - shirt title? I told the family I am getting a T-shirt made which says " I ain't dead yet". That is what I finally concluded after I got my self together after the new 'inconclusive' findings - I ain't dead yet and until God himself calls me home, I am going to live the best way I know how.
We are washing clothes this morning and hopefully came get over to the museum of natural history so the kids can see some the exhibits. They have an incredible rock and gemstone part which blows your mind. Robin commented that she can now see how heaven can be full of jewels and other precious stones. This place is loaded full of them and it is just a museum. They also have several different I IMAX shows.
I will blog again later tonight. Thankyou for your prayers. GW.
My temp. is normal, thankyou Jesus. The big "D" - which rhymes with a small flightless bird is still present since the CT scan, so that I attribute to the antibiotics. I finish those in two days so I'll just hang on. I am getting some probiotics from the healthfood store today to help my good bacteria get a boost.
I just got a call from the Dr. we saw yesterday and we have an appt. lined up this coming Monday at 11:30 am to discuss the CT of the lung according o he nurse. I was a little confused since a radiologist has already previewed it and I was allowed to go home. This maybe related to him wanting to put me on prednisone for the cough/bronchial stuff. He said some of his other patients who are on Gemzar developed a cough exaclty like mine. It is a condition which I believe he called 'pneumotitis' which is a benign condition which goes away afterwards. So I will blog those results after we meet with him Monday.
The movie: Neat special effects, some weird looking creatures for sure, almost action overload for a 42 year old guy like me - plenty of action. And it will leave you wanting to see the next movie to find out what happens. That, I told the kids, is how Hollywood sucks you in with their stroy telling and then gets your money.
The T - shirt title? I told the family I am getting a T-shirt made which says " I ain't dead yet". That is what I finally concluded after I got my self together after the new 'inconclusive' findings - I ain't dead yet and until God himself calls me home, I am going to live the best way I know how.
We are washing clothes this morning and hopefully came get over to the museum of natural history so the kids can see some the exhibits. They have an incredible rock and gemstone part which blows your mind. Robin commented that she can now see how heaven can be full of jewels and other precious stones. This place is loaded full of them and it is just a museum. They also have several different I IMAX shows.
I will blog again later tonight. Thankyou for your prayers. GW.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
CT results are in ...
We met with Dr. Wolff the oncologist this morning. We compared the CT from April 2006 with this CT side by side. No comments on the pancreas. Last time we were told two lymph nodes were enlarged which was not specific as to cancer or just enlarged from surgery. No comments on any lymph nodes. However, he was very concerned (his words) about several spots on my liver. SAy wHaT? Several simultaneous factors are involved: The presence of new spots on the liver within about 3 months; a very high CA-19-9 cancer marker number; persistent fever/increased temperature; dry non productive cough - a discomfort with deep breaths in the lower trachea; increased white blood cell count (even after a week has passed after the Neupogen shots). Here is the conclusion - higher chance of cancer, but he cannot rule out possible infection in the liver - hence the spots. You know what I am believing for, give me the abcess / infection verses the other possibility.
All joking aside, this was like a second death. The first death is when you are awakend at 6 am by a surgeon only to be told they believe you have cancer. You go through surgery and chemo believing things are improving. The second death is having another Dr. tell you months later "it appears your cancer is very aggressive and has spread to your liver in spite of the two best drugs we have to stop it". This one took some control on my part. I became very emotional; angry would apply as well as bumming over all that I have been through only to hear this. I tried not to think of my kids yet. The Dr left the room and Robin and I started crying. What else can you do but release it. I let out some frustations I had about this news which was just between us two - wife's privilege. That helped. We dried our eyes and regrouped, the Doc returned and he got the ball rolling.
Within the hour I was lined up for bloodwork and another CT - this time only of the lungs. We left the hospital around 2 pm. The second thing will be a liver biopsy - oh no - I don't want another one of those. He assured me that the radiologists would make sure I was sufficiently sedated. The biopsy is to help the Dr. know if it is cancer - clearly - then we know how to proceed. If it comes back and is an abcess or infection, then the course of treatment is apparent. If it comes back non specific either way, things get more complicated as to a treatment plan. We do not yet know when the biopsy will be, he said hopefully early next week.
Robin has to be at school next week to get ready for classes the following week. The kids can stay or go. So we have prepared to stay if need be if the biopsy can be done early like Mon or Tues. The procedure is not lengthy, but the drive to Houston is, so we want to try and get it done while here even if we have to stay over the weekend and into the first part of next week.
So, I know several people who have heard very similar news from their oncologist. Your finite mortality is once again thrown in your face. I can only think of one thing to do, turn to my heavenly Father for help. Yes, we need all the technology and care modern medicine can offer, but in the end He is my sole provider in all things - ultimately.
I was talking with Robin and we decided it is time to take the gloves off and start fighting this new found phantom - sounds similar to the 'shadow of death' in Psalm 23. Fear can paralyze even if it is not founded in fact. That is why the Angels would say 'fear not, the Lord is with thee'.
We are trusting God with this day, and tomorrow we will do it again. Thankyou for you prayers and support. Look forward to tomorrow. GW.
All joking aside, this was like a second death. The first death is when you are awakend at 6 am by a surgeon only to be told they believe you have cancer. You go through surgery and chemo believing things are improving. The second death is having another Dr. tell you months later "it appears your cancer is very aggressive and has spread to your liver in spite of the two best drugs we have to stop it". This one took some control on my part. I became very emotional; angry would apply as well as bumming over all that I have been through only to hear this. I tried not to think of my kids yet. The Dr left the room and Robin and I started crying. What else can you do but release it. I let out some frustations I had about this news which was just between us two - wife's privilege. That helped. We dried our eyes and regrouped, the Doc returned and he got the ball rolling.
Within the hour I was lined up for bloodwork and another CT - this time only of the lungs. We left the hospital around 2 pm. The second thing will be a liver biopsy - oh no - I don't want another one of those. He assured me that the radiologists would make sure I was sufficiently sedated. The biopsy is to help the Dr. know if it is cancer - clearly - then we know how to proceed. If it comes back and is an abcess or infection, then the course of treatment is apparent. If it comes back non specific either way, things get more complicated as to a treatment plan. We do not yet know when the biopsy will be, he said hopefully early next week.
Robin has to be at school next week to get ready for classes the following week. The kids can stay or go. So we have prepared to stay if need be if the biopsy can be done early like Mon or Tues. The procedure is not lengthy, but the drive to Houston is, so we want to try and get it done while here even if we have to stay over the weekend and into the first part of next week.
So, I know several people who have heard very similar news from their oncologist. Your finite mortality is once again thrown in your face. I can only think of one thing to do, turn to my heavenly Father for help. Yes, we need all the technology and care modern medicine can offer, but in the end He is my sole provider in all things - ultimately.
I was talking with Robin and we decided it is time to take the gloves off and start fighting this new found phantom - sounds similar to the 'shadow of death' in Psalm 23. Fear can paralyze even if it is not founded in fact. That is why the Angels would say 'fear not, the Lord is with thee'.
We are trusting God with this day, and tomorrow we will do it again. Thankyou for you prayers and support. Look forward to tomorrow. GW.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
What a day !
Ya'll are not going to believe this one. After the CT yesterday I was pumped. Came home and Robin baked potatoes and I the steaks right? Then we all went to bed looking forward to no test or appts. early, just the evening ball game. Well, plans change sometimes as we all know. I woke up at 1:15 am and had temp of 98.5 - super! Went back to sleep thanking God since that's the first normal temp I've had in days. At 4:15 am I wake up to a really disturbing heart rhythm and temp of 100.0. Within an hour it climbed to 102.3. The insert for the Cipro I am taking says to call your Dr. immediately if irregular heart beat, etc. occurs while on this med. I know enough from my training and my job to know that some irregularities are much more dangerous than others. I felt it was a delayed ventricular beat along with a few pre-ventricular beats - but I still knew what I had to do - call the Doc. So I waited until almost 7 am before I got Robin up and told her what was going on, made the necssary phone calls to work me in and headed to the Dr.s office. They took vitals and the nurse called them to the Dr. and he felt it would be better for me if I were to go the ER. STOP. I do not want to go to the ER. You know what an ER visit is in my mind? (From seeing it happen to people through my job) It means: undress, put on this gown, we are going to start an IV, hook you to a monitor and then you will wait aaaaaaaaaaaaall daaaaaaaaaaaay loooooooong before anything is resolved. Who is the prophet? That is exactly what happened. I was seen fairly quickly, then it was as if I fell of of the planet. From 8:30 to 6 pm I sat in a windowless, small room. The IV they tried to start? Well, I could have swarn she was trying to torture me - I literally was hollering and told her to remove it now! She went through the other side of the vein or something - my bald head almost popped off of my shoulders with the pain. I get stuck every week several times and I know when it is in the vessel and when it is not. She tried a 2nd time at a different location and I did not even feel it. But I was really irregular after that first stick. To top this off, I am having to drag all this equipment to the bathroom down the hall because of the diarrhea. Man! The attending physician was great - which help smooth over some of my developing attitude. I was waiting on the cardiologist for 6 hours. He came only after I had put my pants and shoes back on, a signal, ever so subtle, that I am about to head out. Maybe it was just a coincidence. After it was all said and done, I really don't know a whole lot more than when I came. I do know my CBC (blood chemistry) showed nothing that would be causing the PVC's (pre ventricular contractions). They were thinking the CT contast gives you the "loosies" along with the pre-existing fever and being on chemo caused me to dehydrate and provoke such a response from my heart. The crazy part is that I am still having PVC's although not a bad as this am.
Now, in between Robin sitting with me and then going to sit with the kids, or bring them to eat, I used the time to either meditate or have some good talk time with the Lord. I just told Him how frustrating this whole process is getting. Yes, I am thanful, but I still am tired of getting stuck all the time, having to wait, my food tasting funky, etc. He listened to the whole discourse and He responded accordingly. He is our couselor and comforter. And our attitude improver. Praise His Name.
We went to the Astro's game and unfortunately they lost to the Cinncinati Reds. We did have a good time together however.
Ate a tuna sandwich, took my pills and started blogging and here it is 12:30 a.m. Wed. morning.
So I need to get in the bed. This has been a doozy of a day.
God, Bless and I update tomorrow. GW.
Now, in between Robin sitting with me and then going to sit with the kids, or bring them to eat, I used the time to either meditate or have some good talk time with the Lord. I just told Him how frustrating this whole process is getting. Yes, I am thanful, but I still am tired of getting stuck all the time, having to wait, my food tasting funky, etc. He listened to the whole discourse and He responded accordingly. He is our couselor and comforter. And our attitude improver. Praise His Name.
We went to the Astro's game and unfortunately they lost to the Cinncinati Reds. We did have a good time together however.
Ate a tuna sandwich, took my pills and started blogging and here it is 12:30 a.m. Wed. morning.
So I need to get in the bed. This has been a doozy of a day.
God, Bless and I update tomorrow. GW.
Monday, July 24, 2006
CT is over ...
Thank God the CT is behind me. The people here make what has the potential to be an unpleasant experience much more bearable. I also believe quoting/meditating on scripture prior to anything with the potential to stress you out is most helpful. The stuff still tastes nasty! Now, I have to drink 3 - 16 oz. bottles of water before I go to bed tonight to help flush out the iodine contrast - oh, and stay real close to the privy, since the Gastroview contrast I drank has a sweetener in it which has a "laxative" effect. I'll say no more.
We came home and tried to cook steaks on the grill, but the propane tank was too low to fire up, so I cooked them on the stove top. They were a really good treat of a meal after todays events. Robin baked potatoes and a good time was had by all.
Bryan and Austin are playing together everyday. That's good for both of them. There are not too many kids around here Austin's age and Bryan is the youngest at our house so it works out great.
Hopefully, we will be able to see the Astros play tomorrow night. We have tickets. The son has never seen a pro baseball game. It should be interesting.
Thanks for praying. It works. Talk at you tomorrow. GW.
We came home and tried to cook steaks on the grill, but the propane tank was too low to fire up, so I cooked them on the stove top. They were a really good treat of a meal after todays events. Robin baked potatoes and a good time was had by all.
Bryan and Austin are playing together everyday. That's good for both of them. There are not too many kids around here Austin's age and Bryan is the youngest at our house so it works out great.
Hopefully, we will be able to see the Astros play tomorrow night. We have tickets. The son has never seen a pro baseball game. It should be interesting.
Thanks for praying. It works. Talk at you tomorrow. GW.
day of tests..
We will be leaving soon to go to MD Anderson's for George's testing. We have not been able to do much since George's temp has been elevated. We have been hanging out at the park and playing games etc. It's been good and relaxing. We will update the blog later today. We love you all and I thank you for standing with us in prayer and believing for a good report. Later...
Robin
Robin
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Temp up ...
I didn’t want to, but I finally had to get on Ciprofloxacin and Augmentin due to my temp. not coming down. It got as high as 101.2. Thankfully we filled both prescriptions in BR and had them with us. This should take car of the temp. problem.
The weather got really ugly – lightening, thunder and rain around 4 – 6 pm.
We had hamburgers for supper. We tried something different. Instead of mixing the ground meat with other ingredients, I had Robin just cut the meat out in a square and cook it straight out of the pack. A friend from College told me about that one. It was more mild without the seasonings, which was easier on my tongue. I cannot wait to get the taste back – I know it is coming though.
I spoke with family today and all are doing well.
I’ll post some more later. GW.
The weather got really ugly – lightening, thunder and rain around 4 – 6 pm.
We had hamburgers for supper. We tried something different. Instead of mixing the ground meat with other ingredients, I had Robin just cut the meat out in a square and cook it straight out of the pack. A friend from College told me about that one. It was more mild without the seasonings, which was easier on my tongue. I cannot wait to get the taste back – I know it is coming though.
I spoke with family today and all are doing well.
I’ll post some more later. GW.
Early Saturday in Houston....
Yesterday must have been a little too much for me, I woke up with a temperature of 101. I am laying low for a while to see if it comes down or if I need to start taking my antibiotics. We are believeing for the first scenario of course.
Robin cooked waffles for breakfast this morning, or should I say she started to until she realized we didn't have any oil. Thankfully, there is a Fiesta close and I was off to buy some oil. After much contemplation, I bought LouAna oil, which is made in Opelousas. (Got to support LA business). So waffles and eggs it was for breakfast.
We were planning to go to Galveston today but may put it off until Tuesday. We have an Astros game in store for Tuesday night. Oh yeah and the occassional doctors visit in between all of the fun. We will update you later, please continue to pray for a good report.
GW and RW
Robin cooked waffles for breakfast this morning, or should I say she started to until she realized we didn't have any oil. Thankfully, there is a Fiesta close and I was off to buy some oil. After much contemplation, I bought LouAna oil, which is made in Opelousas. (Got to support LA business). So waffles and eggs it was for breakfast.
We were planning to go to Galveston today but may put it off until Tuesday. We have an Astros game in store for Tuesday night. Oh yeah and the occassional doctors visit in between all of the fun. We will update you later, please continue to pray for a good report.
GW and RW
Friday, July 21, 2006
Dog show ...
Woke up, Robin cooked biscuits and eggs and then we headed to the Houston Dog show - I have never seen anything like this in my life. There are breeds you have never heard of! Some of the biggest (bull mastif) and some of the smallest (toy poms) I have seen. There were also some very rare and expensive breeds. We spent about 4 hours watching dogs do their thing. The most exciting is the "Fly Ball" competition where a team of 4 dogs run a 51 foot track with 4 hurdles and a ball at the end. Once the first dog gets the ball and returns the other dogs follow doing the same thing and the fastest team wins. Of course, not all of the dogs are pros, so you see some funny stuff. Robin is of course smitten with the toy poms - I have to remind her we already have a pom! My advice at any dog show is this, when in doubt, do not step on it!!!
We then headed home for about 2 hours (i had to lay down for a while) and then back out to the Clydes house to visit. They treated us to Fajitas, our kids played with theirs and a good time was had by all. She is double pregnant -twins that is - with four already running around.
The next thing we did will make your mouth water - we stopped by a set of 2 stores - one is a chocolate/ice cream shop with every kind of chocolate confection know to man, the next is a candy store that carries every type of candy you can imagine, even from when you were a kid. Remember Chickle stick? They also have all of the Jelly Belly jelly bean flavors. I had to buy some of those. The only surprise was when we were leaving, it was dark, so I was eating one at time. Then all of a sudden this intense heat hit my mouth - it was a Jalapeno flavored jelly bean! That is so wrong! They also have garlic, buttered toast etc. By this time, it is bed time. We have our sites set on Galveston tomorrow.
We had a very good day today with minimum symptoms thank God.
Psalm 51. GW.
We then headed home for about 2 hours (i had to lay down for a while) and then back out to the Clydes house to visit. They treated us to Fajitas, our kids played with theirs and a good time was had by all. She is double pregnant -twins that is - with four already running around.
The next thing we did will make your mouth water - we stopped by a set of 2 stores - one is a chocolate/ice cream shop with every kind of chocolate confection know to man, the next is a candy store that carries every type of candy you can imagine, even from when you were a kid. Remember Chickle stick? They also have all of the Jelly Belly jelly bean flavors. I had to buy some of those. The only surprise was when we were leaving, it was dark, so I was eating one at time. Then all of a sudden this intense heat hit my mouth - it was a Jalapeno flavored jelly bean! That is so wrong! They also have garlic, buttered toast etc. By this time, it is bed time. We have our sites set on Galveston tomorrow.
We had a very good day today with minimum symptoms thank God.
Psalm 51. GW.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Here it is ...
You've got to read this one . . .
Well, I told you I was going to finish my story, so here it is. Do you all remember me requesting prayer for a young boy named Austin Barber who needed a heart/lung transplant soon? After having left Houston last time he was still waiting. We lost track of his status after we had visited him in the Children’s hospital for a lung infection. On the way into Houston today, I told the family wouldn’t it be awesome if we showed up at the RV Resort only to find out Austin had already had the transplant and was walking around like brand new. That was a prayerful wish on my part, since I really did not know either way. We get our stuff straight at the office, head to our house and guess who is living next door to us? Austin Barber and his parents!!! He comes out of his house - walking around outside as if nothing had ever happened! Something was missing though – oh yeah, his oxygen tube and bottle which he had on 24/7. His color looks great (his fingers would turn bluish in color) and he is not coughing. We found out this: the surgery was on June 28th – instead of the 8 to 12 hours predicted for the complete operation, his lasted 3 ½ hours. He was in the hospital 3 weeks for recovery and was then released to the park with limited people contact. Four weeks after the surgery he is given the okay to get out and about more. Since he was born, he has never had any solid food, only water and a medically formulated liquid through a peg tube. Now he can eat real food! I am so amped (excited) I have been beside myself. I don’t know what else to say but praise God! Miracles still do happen! I cannot get that chubby little smiling face out of my mind. His mom and dad look great too – the relief on their faces is very visible. The stress and worry are gone, knowing over the past 12 plus years that their son was destined to have to get to this point (if he was lucky). It is now over and it is time to get on with living – no more waiting. Praise God!
I am once again overwhelmed by how great God is to us. We were talking on the road about how God’s ways are so much higher than our ways and His understanding is so much higher than ours. We concluded that no matter how things turn out that God’s ultimate motivation is His love for us. And that anytime we think God has missed some detail or is not taking care of His business the way we think He should, that we are the ones who are lacking the understanding – not God. Our ignorance – willful or not – is usually the root of our own frustration with God. He is light, and in Him no darkness dwells.
I look forward to writing more tomorrow. God Bless you. George.
Well, I told you I was going to finish my story, so here it is. Do you all remember me requesting prayer for a young boy named Austin Barber who needed a heart/lung transplant soon? After having left Houston last time he was still waiting. We lost track of his status after we had visited him in the Children’s hospital for a lung infection. On the way into Houston today, I told the family wouldn’t it be awesome if we showed up at the RV Resort only to find out Austin had already had the transplant and was walking around like brand new. That was a prayerful wish on my part, since I really did not know either way. We get our stuff straight at the office, head to our house and guess who is living next door to us? Austin Barber and his parents!!! He comes out of his house - walking around outside as if nothing had ever happened! Something was missing though – oh yeah, his oxygen tube and bottle which he had on 24/7. His color looks great (his fingers would turn bluish in color) and he is not coughing. We found out this: the surgery was on June 28th – instead of the 8 to 12 hours predicted for the complete operation, his lasted 3 ½ hours. He was in the hospital 3 weeks for recovery and was then released to the park with limited people contact. Four weeks after the surgery he is given the okay to get out and about more. Since he was born, he has never had any solid food, only water and a medically formulated liquid through a peg tube. Now he can eat real food! I am so amped (excited) I have been beside myself. I don’t know what else to say but praise God! Miracles still do happen! I cannot get that chubby little smiling face out of my mind. His mom and dad look great too – the relief on their faces is very visible. The stress and worry are gone, knowing over the past 12 plus years that their son was destined to have to get to this point (if he was lucky). It is now over and it is time to get on with living – no more waiting. Praise God!
I am once again overwhelmed by how great God is to us. We were talking on the road about how God’s ways are so much higher than our ways and His understanding is so much higher than ours. We concluded that no matter how things turn out that God’s ultimate motivation is His love for us. And that anytime we think God has missed some detail or is not taking care of His business the way we think He should, that we are the ones who are lacking the understanding – not God. Our ignorance – willful or not – is usually the root of our own frustration with God. He is light, and in Him no darkness dwells.
I look forward to writing more tomorrow. God Bless you. George.
The Eagles have landed ...
We have arrived safely (thankyou Jesus) and are unloaded into the 'park model' - which is about 400 sq. ft., sleeps 4, refrigerator, dishwasher, living/dining area with 1 bath - clean as a whistle. TV and DSL internet access, too. This thing is really nice.
I do not want to let the cat out of the bag before later tonight, but you all are not going to believe who our next door neighbor happens to be - of course it's just coincidnece - I do not think God could have set this thing up - or could He - tune in later tonight for the details.
We have to go shopping to get all of our supplies since we have a kitchen. The idea was to not have to spend money eating out every meal. So we are making our list of meals (and treats - Ronnie Smith's favorite - ice cream).
Time to go shopping.
We will be updating the blog regularly, so stay tuned.
GW and family.
I do not want to let the cat out of the bag before later tonight, but you all are not going to believe who our next door neighbor happens to be - of course it's just coincidnece - I do not think God could have set this thing up - or could He - tune in later tonight for the details.
We have to go shopping to get all of our supplies since we have a kitchen. The idea was to not have to spend money eating out every meal. So we are making our list of meals (and treats - Ronnie Smith's favorite - ice cream).
Time to go shopping.
We will be updating the blog regularly, so stay tuned.
GW and family.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Better day ...
Today was much better than the other few before. I took advantage of it and 'tightened up' some loose ends around here before we head to Houston. The dog even knows something is up. I can tell the stress level jumps up a notch the night and morning of a trip. We are looking forward to getting on the road - it's only about 5 hours. We will be staying at the same RV resort pre- and post- op. There are some things we want the kids to see in the city like the Museum of Natural History, etc. Hey, anything to keep my mind off of drinking the nasty stuff before the CT scan next Monday!
Yesterday (Tues.) was rather rough. Fever after the shot, etc. Couched it most of the day documenting everything related. Food tastes funny, wasn't hungry, which has improved on Wed.
Movies: We watched the 'Greatest Game ever Played' about Golf early in the 1900's. Prejudice is not just a color thing, but a class thing, which this movie exposes. The kids can watch it, mine liked it alot. Definitely a rental, not a go and see it flick. Felt encouraged afterwards.
The weather changed dramatically late afternoon - it must have gotten down to 70 degrees with a nice breeze. All plants are watered and ready for farmer brown's departure. The grass is cut, too.
The breeze and temperature change today reminds me of how the Lord gives us times of refreshing in the midst of a heated battle or struggle. Just when you think you cannot handle it anymore - when things get overwhelming - here comes a cool breeze from the spirit of God, needed but unexpected, desired but not deserved, simply because of His love for us. Relief from on High.
Hopefully you will experience this soon as God breathes new energy into your spirit enabling you to move forward with a fresh outlook. 'Cause you know what they say, 'it ain't over till it's over. Keep us four in your prayers this week. Thanks GW
Yesterday (Tues.) was rather rough. Fever after the shot, etc. Couched it most of the day documenting everything related. Food tastes funny, wasn't hungry, which has improved on Wed.
Movies: We watched the 'Greatest Game ever Played' about Golf early in the 1900's. Prejudice is not just a color thing, but a class thing, which this movie exposes. The kids can watch it, mine liked it alot. Definitely a rental, not a go and see it flick. Felt encouraged afterwards.
The weather changed dramatically late afternoon - it must have gotten down to 70 degrees with a nice breeze. All plants are watered and ready for farmer brown's departure. The grass is cut, too.
The breeze and temperature change today reminds me of how the Lord gives us times of refreshing in the midst of a heated battle or struggle. Just when you think you cannot handle it anymore - when things get overwhelming - here comes a cool breeze from the spirit of God, needed but unexpected, desired but not deserved, simply because of His love for us. Relief from on High.
Hopefully you will experience this soon as God breathes new energy into your spirit enabling you to move forward with a fresh outlook. 'Cause you know what they say, 'it ain't over till it's over. Keep us four in your prayers this week. Thanks GW
Monday, July 17, 2006
Neupy # 2
Got the shot today, and as expected a fever of 100.6 F along with it. It is down now (9 pm) into the 99 . something. I also had the cramping action before I left this morning to get the shot and also along the way. Man, that can make a mouse out of you real quick, but as for me, I'm calling upon the Name of the Lord when things like that happen. I got back home and lit on the couch almost the entire day except for the every 30 minute temp. check.
Church was great - " ' See', I give you the city of Jericho". Walls 20 foot thick and 25 feet high - and all we have to do is march around and play instruments and they will come down? God told Joshua to 'see' it. Good word Pastor Don.
Robin cooked a gumbo after church - I guess she's trying to up me one. My taste is so messed up I can't tell good from great or anything in between. I'll tell you what it is like - have you ever brushed your teeth and then drank some orange juice? You know that nasty feeling/flavor - that's the closest comparison I can give you. It should get better in a few days. The farther from treatment/shots I get the better it gets.
She also cut the yard on the big farmer brown's (red) tractor this evening - I think she likes it.
The A/C is doing it's thing again. I'm going to find out the brand name and type of unit and post it on this blog so everyone that reads will know of the lack of reliability of this particular product. Am I mad? No, just think things should work like they are supposed to, that's all. It is still cooling, just the compressor is locked into the 'on' position. We know what to do, it's just getting old having to do the same ole' thing. Go outside and flip the breaker when you want it off, then back on if you want it on.
Anyway, Psalms 47:1 says,
"Clap your hands all ye people,
shout unto God with a voice of triumph.
So that is what I am going to do.
Talk to ya'll tomorrow. GW
Church was great - " ' See', I give you the city of Jericho". Walls 20 foot thick and 25 feet high - and all we have to do is march around and play instruments and they will come down? God told Joshua to 'see' it. Good word Pastor Don.
Robin cooked a gumbo after church - I guess she's trying to up me one. My taste is so messed up I can't tell good from great or anything in between. I'll tell you what it is like - have you ever brushed your teeth and then drank some orange juice? You know that nasty feeling/flavor - that's the closest comparison I can give you. It should get better in a few days. The farther from treatment/shots I get the better it gets.
She also cut the yard on the big farmer brown's (red) tractor this evening - I think she likes it.
The A/C is doing it's thing again. I'm going to find out the brand name and type of unit and post it on this blog so everyone that reads will know of the lack of reliability of this particular product. Am I mad? No, just think things should work like they are supposed to, that's all. It is still cooling, just the compressor is locked into the 'on' position. We know what to do, it's just getting old having to do the same ole' thing. Go outside and flip the breaker when you want it off, then back on if you want it on.
Anyway, Psalms 47:1 says,
"Clap your hands all ye people,
shout unto God with a voice of triumph.
So that is what I am going to do.
Talk to ya'll tomorrow. GW
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Saturday ....
Today has been going good so far. I woke up still full from last night – too much watermelon too late. So I waited an hour before taking the chemo pill to make sure my stomach was empty.
Used the weedeater around the house and the garden (it’s better than hand weeding). The garden is looking fabulous. If I could beat the birds to the fig trees, I might get a few figs.
Looking forward to the rest of the day. I hope you all are having a productive day – remember what Proverbs 16:3 says,
“Commit your works to the LORD,
and your plans will be established”.
Pray for the Israel / Lebanon conflict.
Amen to that.
Talk later. Nap time.
Used the weedeater around the house and the garden (it’s better than hand weeding). The garden is looking fabulous. If I could beat the birds to the fig trees, I might get a few figs.
Looking forward to the rest of the day. I hope you all are having a productive day – remember what Proverbs 16:3 says,
“Commit your works to the LORD,
and your plans will be established”.
Pray for the Israel / Lebanon conflict.
Amen to that.
Talk later. Nap time.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Chemo #12
Chemo #12 is done. Thank you Jesus! Robin and my oldest came by right before they started the IV and sat with me for a while until their hair cut appt. time rolled around. It's good for the nurses to see your family and the family to see the nurses and the process of the whole thing. During treatment, some people sleep, read, listen to music, watch the news or visit with the person in the chair next to them. Me, I'm just glad the nurse got it on the first stick - which is one of my many prayers. I had to get a red blood cell shot today and the white shot 3 times next week.
Picked up the youngest from Lynn and Greggs house - they brought him home from Kids Camp - they had a blast! They even had a little short DVD the kids could purchase with footage of the weeks events and the kids faces.
I went by work (CVT) before and visited a few minutes and signed some papers. It was great to see everyone. Richard, Terry and Catherine were not there, but everyone else was accounted for. They have not seen me and the new look. You would have thought my head was a lucky charm after all that rubbing.
Politics: How about the Isreal / Lebanon / Hezbollah thing? Is that crazy or what? Ya'll, this has the potential to drag the U.S.A. into more fighting and more troop commitments. Iran is trying it's dead level best to help annihilate Israel. I hope this conflict is headed off before it gets any more serious. It has the potential to be worse than Iraq. The civilians are the ones that suffer.
God never said this life would be easy, but He does promise to be with us through it all. He is our peace.
Have a great weekend, GW
Picked up the youngest from Lynn and Greggs house - they brought him home from Kids Camp - they had a blast! They even had a little short DVD the kids could purchase with footage of the weeks events and the kids faces.
I went by work (CVT) before and visited a few minutes and signed some papers. It was great to see everyone. Richard, Terry and Catherine were not there, but everyone else was accounted for. They have not seen me and the new look. You would have thought my head was a lucky charm after all that rubbing.
Politics: How about the Isreal / Lebanon / Hezbollah thing? Is that crazy or what? Ya'll, this has the potential to drag the U.S.A. into more fighting and more troop commitments. Iran is trying it's dead level best to help annihilate Israel. I hope this conflict is headed off before it gets any more serious. It has the potential to be worse than Iraq. The civilians are the ones that suffer.
God never said this life would be easy, but He does promise to be with us through it all. He is our peace.
Have a great weekend, GW
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