Just got back from my post neck dissection follow up appointment. Dr. Shonka said I was healing beautifully.
I asked about the ear sensations and pressure I was feeling here and there. He mentioned that being a normal side effect for the surgery I had gone through. I can begin to try to blow some of that pressure out, by pinching my nose and blowing. (like how you push cabin pressure from an airplane flight out of your ears, as an example)
He also advised that I am cleared to begin taking showers again. WOO HOO!!! :)
Sheila had been cleaning me with these special wipes the hospital gave us, since I was ordered I couldn't shower with those fresh surgical wounds.
My stitches are also at the stage where I can switch from her applying Bacitracin, to Vaseline instead.
I'll head back next week for another follow up appointment to see how the healing is further progressing, and will also hear the pathology report from this last surgery, to determine if I will need Chemo or not.
I'll also meet with the Rad team again to discuss the process and be fitted for my pet mask.
More soon!
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
First night and side effects
Sleeping in a hospital bed wasn't that bad actually. There is no way to roll onto either side and it helps a lot with keeping you in one position.
I can't roll onto my R side, due to the stitches that dot along from below my ear and down to my adam's apple, in addition to the small incision right above my collarbone, where the fluid had to drain from the surgical trauma.
Last night, Sheila and I switched from our normal positions, so that I wouldn't be prone to rolling over onto the R side of my body.
It worked like a charm too! I still had to get up a few times during the night to control my pain, but at least got some sleep. Not to mention, needing Sheila's help to apply the Bacitracin to my stitches, to prevent them from drying up.
As a result of the surgery and trauma to some of the nerves, I can't feel my right ear and part of my face and neck. The team made me fully aware this could happen, and it has.
The feeling will return after a few months, and I'll take adjusting to these, vs. not having the use of my Right arm and hand, which could've been the result.
Staying thankful amongst an Ocean of changing conditions.
I have to remain positive, its necessary to continue the fight, and I can always reflect on the fact that there are many people in the world, who are going through much more.
I have a lot to be thankful for.
I can't roll onto my R side, due to the stitches that dot along from below my ear and down to my adam's apple, in addition to the small incision right above my collarbone, where the fluid had to drain from the surgical trauma.
Last night, Sheila and I switched from our normal positions, so that I wouldn't be prone to rolling over onto the R side of my body.
It worked like a charm too! I still had to get up a few times during the night to control my pain, but at least got some sleep. Not to mention, needing Sheila's help to apply the Bacitracin to my stitches, to prevent them from drying up.
As a result of the surgery and trauma to some of the nerves, I can't feel my right ear and part of my face and neck. The team made me fully aware this could happen, and it has.
The feeling will return after a few months, and I'll take adjusting to these, vs. not having the use of my Right arm and hand, which could've been the result.
Staying thankful amongst an Ocean of changing conditions.
I have to remain positive, its necessary to continue the fight, and I can always reflect on the fact that there are many people in the world, who are going through much more.
I have a lot to be thankful for.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Cancer free!
I just arrived home from UVA a few min ago and wanted to update you all
I am so thankful and happy to report, that I am now CANCER FREE!!
The surgery went very well too.
The doctors thought they would have to make 2 incisions, one from my ear, to adam's apple, and then beneath that line, near my collar bone.
I only needed 1 incision. :)
The Anesthesia MD told me before going under, I might have to sleep all night under drug control because I might need a breathing tube placed down my throat..
I told him to make sure I never knew about it, or woke up with it down there. I dont think my mental capacity would've been able to handle the shock from that.
I didn't need the breathing tube kept inside of me. :)
They said i'd have to have the area stapeled shut afterwards, instead of being sewn up with stitches.
I only needed dissolvable stitches. :)
I can't thank my surgeon Dr. Shonka and his team for doing an excellent job and taking such tremendous care of me.
When I woke up in PACU, the Rns and techs were amazing, helping control the pain and getting me ready to move to my room. (which was private too, felt awesome having my own space)
I remember being in the fog of anesthesia still and one nurse asked me, what are you thinking about right now, Tony?
I said, Pink Floyd.
(LOL!!)
The nurses and staff on 6 West ICU were nothing short of angelic, with the post-surgical care they provided to me.
I have to thank Nurse Kelli and Jessy. You both are amazing nurses and UVA is lucky to have you.
It was great getting to know them and building a connection with them during my stay. Thank you both so much, and I hope we get to see each other again one day.
So, heading back down on 7/31 for my follow up appt.
I believe it was the energy, prayers, vibes, a positive attitude, and the love from God, that saw me through this last and final surgery, with as little trauma as possible.
Oh, my Right arm wasn't affected either, just some of the nerves in my ear and the R side of my chest.
No big deal, they will return to normal in a few months.
:)
I am so thankful and happy to report, that I am now CANCER FREE!!
The surgery went very well too.
The doctors thought they would have to make 2 incisions, one from my ear, to adam's apple, and then beneath that line, near my collar bone.
I only needed 1 incision. :)
The Anesthesia MD told me before going under, I might have to sleep all night under drug control because I might need a breathing tube placed down my throat..
I told him to make sure I never knew about it, or woke up with it down there. I dont think my mental capacity would've been able to handle the shock from that.
I didn't need the breathing tube kept inside of me. :)
They said i'd have to have the area stapeled shut afterwards, instead of being sewn up with stitches.
I only needed dissolvable stitches. :)
I can't thank my surgeon Dr. Shonka and his team for doing an excellent job and taking such tremendous care of me.
When I woke up in PACU, the Rns and techs were amazing, helping control the pain and getting me ready to move to my room. (which was private too, felt awesome having my own space)
I remember being in the fog of anesthesia still and one nurse asked me, what are you thinking about right now, Tony?
I said, Pink Floyd.
(LOL!!)
The nurses and staff on 6 West ICU were nothing short of angelic, with the post-surgical care they provided to me.
I have to thank Nurse Kelli and Jessy. You both are amazing nurses and UVA is lucky to have you.
It was great getting to know them and building a connection with them during my stay. Thank you both so much, and I hope we get to see each other again one day.
So, heading back down on 7/31 for my follow up appt.
I believe it was the energy, prayers, vibes, a positive attitude, and the love from God, that saw me through this last and final surgery, with as little trauma as possible.
Oh, my Right arm wasn't affected either, just some of the nerves in my ear and the R side of my chest.
No big deal, they will return to normal in a few months.
:)
Thursday, July 26, 2012
The final surgery.
Tomorrow July 27th, will be my 3rd and final surgery. As usual, I am a little anxious to get #3 behind me, but feel good about it. I'm ready to have this shit out of my neck.
When I say I am anxious, it's like the same feeling I would get the night before an exam at school, when I know I am prepared, and ready to collect that "A" grade that I earned through days, hours, and minutes of prep and study time.
I asked the surgical team to take a picture of the damaged lymph nodes and email me a copy. I figure its the least they can do and I would like to know what it looks like for my own knowledge and piece of mind.
I'll remind them that the pain control needs to be given to Sheila to fill BEFORE WE LEAVE and not handed "paper" to drive all the way home with, to then fill. Same with the "magic mouth wash" that I will need to keep the Thrush at bay. No more glucose-sugar based rinses for this guy to fuel any Thrush-fires. You have to ask for things in a certain way, or you won't get them....That's odd to me, but it's a process.
A friend of mine who lives in PA, mom has Cancer and has been fighting for years. She told me at the beginning of my journey, that I needed to be my own Advocate. She couldn't have been more right. I hope I get to meet her one day.
I talked to the Anesthesia nurse yesterday. I told her, I'm not 100% on swallowing, since the Thrush happend to me. Going through that mess, cost me about 5 days of recovery time.
Granted, my swallowing mechanics have improved, and my speech is getting better. It's unfortunate that I lost those days, but they've made me stronger none the less.
I also informed her of the "pill choking" incident on July 11th in the short stay unit, and informed her, if they try to get me to "swallow'' any pills, and I don't feel safe about it at the time....
The answer will be a resounding, NO THANKS!
You can give me an IV of antibiotics, or shove off!
The nurse understood completely. If I only had the foresight to have that option before, I would've exercised it...but there again,...We have to be our own Advocates!!
(Thanks Michele for teaching me that important lesson!)
As I might've mentioned before, I'll wake up in the ICU so they can monitor me closer, than being on the short stay unit. I appreciate the extra attention.
My right arm might not work correctly once I come to. This won't be due to any danger of a stroke, but because the nerves are going to take a beating from the node removal. It will come back after some PT, no big deal there. ;)
So, this will be my last blog entry until I am home again and ready to recant my further adventures under the care of the world-renowned specialists at UVA.
One song that really gets me pumped up is by one of the most incredible bands our existence has ever come to know, love and appreciate. The music of Pink Floyd has touched, and continues to touch people all over the world.
I've read comment after comment on youtube that speaks to the power and emotion of their compositions. Their music has a way of making people feel good about whatever they are facing, or have faced. I understand it.
The one song in particular, is called "Fearless". I am including the lyrics to it below. You really need to search out this song and listen to it, to appreciate what I am talking about here.
I think you'll come to agree, once you hear the music with the lyrics, you can then fathom, the power this song has inside of it.
"Fearless" - Pink Floyd from the album "Meddle"
You say the hill's too steep to climb
Climb it.
You say you'd like to see me try
Climbing.
You pick the place and I'll choose the time
And I'll climb
That hill in my own way.
Just wait a while for the right day.
And as I rise above the tree lines and the clouds
I look down, hearing the sound of the things you've said today.
Fearlessly the idiot faced the crowd
Smiling.
Merciless the magistrate turns 'round
Frowning.
And who's the fool who wears the crown?
And go down,
in your own way
And every day is the right day
And as you rise above the fear-lines in his brow
You look down, hearing the sound of the faces in the crowd.
So, I'll see you on the other side then, friends.
Yours and Fearless,
Tony
When I say I am anxious, it's like the same feeling I would get the night before an exam at school, when I know I am prepared, and ready to collect that "A" grade that I earned through days, hours, and minutes of prep and study time.
I asked the surgical team to take a picture of the damaged lymph nodes and email me a copy. I figure its the least they can do and I would like to know what it looks like for my own knowledge and piece of mind.
I'll remind them that the pain control needs to be given to Sheila to fill BEFORE WE LEAVE and not handed "paper" to drive all the way home with, to then fill. Same with the "magic mouth wash" that I will need to keep the Thrush at bay. No more glucose-sugar based rinses for this guy to fuel any Thrush-fires. You have to ask for things in a certain way, or you won't get them....That's odd to me, but it's a process.
A friend of mine who lives in PA, mom has Cancer and has been fighting for years. She told me at the beginning of my journey, that I needed to be my own Advocate. She couldn't have been more right. I hope I get to meet her one day.
I talked to the Anesthesia nurse yesterday. I told her, I'm not 100% on swallowing, since the Thrush happend to me. Going through that mess, cost me about 5 days of recovery time.
Granted, my swallowing mechanics have improved, and my speech is getting better. It's unfortunate that I lost those days, but they've made me stronger none the less.
I also informed her of the "pill choking" incident on July 11th in the short stay unit, and informed her, if they try to get me to "swallow'' any pills, and I don't feel safe about it at the time....
The answer will be a resounding, NO THANKS!
You can give me an IV of antibiotics, or shove off!
The nurse understood completely. If I only had the foresight to have that option before, I would've exercised it...but there again,...We have to be our own Advocates!!
(Thanks Michele for teaching me that important lesson!)
As I might've mentioned before, I'll wake up in the ICU so they can monitor me closer, than being on the short stay unit. I appreciate the extra attention.
My right arm might not work correctly once I come to. This won't be due to any danger of a stroke, but because the nerves are going to take a beating from the node removal. It will come back after some PT, no big deal there. ;)
So, this will be my last blog entry until I am home again and ready to recant my further adventures under the care of the world-renowned specialists at UVA.
One song that really gets me pumped up is by one of the most incredible bands our existence has ever come to know, love and appreciate. The music of Pink Floyd has touched, and continues to touch people all over the world.
I've read comment after comment on youtube that speaks to the power and emotion of their compositions. Their music has a way of making people feel good about whatever they are facing, or have faced. I understand it.
The one song in particular, is called "Fearless". I am including the lyrics to it below. You really need to search out this song and listen to it, to appreciate what I am talking about here.
I think you'll come to agree, once you hear the music with the lyrics, you can then fathom, the power this song has inside of it.
"Fearless" - Pink Floyd from the album "Meddle"
You say the hill's too steep to climb
Climb it.
You say you'd like to see me try
Climbing.
You pick the place and I'll choose the time
And I'll climb
That hill in my own way.
Just wait a while for the right day.
And as I rise above the tree lines and the clouds
I look down, hearing the sound of the things you've said today.
Fearlessly the idiot faced the crowd
Smiling.
Merciless the magistrate turns 'round
Frowning.
And who's the fool who wears the crown?
And go down,
in your own way
And every day is the right day
And as you rise above the fear-lines in his brow
You look down, hearing the sound of the faces in the crowd.
So, I'll see you on the other side then, friends.
Yours and Fearless,
Tony
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
First shave since 7/11.
Today, my good friend and Barber, met me at a Sally's beauty supply shop to hook me up with a discount, so I could get a pair of clippers to trim down this Paul Bunyan like growth I had accumulated since July 11th.
After my last surgery, I tried shaving 2 days later and wasted a lot of shaving cream in the process.
I don't know where my head was, probably wired on pain control no doubt.
When I applied the cream, it didn't hit me that I hadn't tried to lift my neck since getting back home.
I couldn't lift it to shave.
The muscles were too sore from the trauma of the surgery. I had to wipe off all of that shaving cream and accept defeat for the time being. : (
There is something cathartic about shaving yourself to a smooth, clean, almost ''Rain-X'' like finish, after coming out of the threshes of pain during the recovery period. : )
Each stroke, felt more and more amazing than the last...Watching the hairs dance their way off of the razor, down the drain, as the hot water readied the blades for their next run.
I feel 5 degrees cooler and so much better. UVA told me, if I couldn't shave, they'd be glad to. I politely declined the invite, wanting to have that special moment to myself.
I can't wait to shave again tomorrow, thanks for the help with the hook up on the sweet ass clippers B!
After my last surgery, I tried shaving 2 days later and wasted a lot of shaving cream in the process.
I don't know where my head was, probably wired on pain control no doubt.
When I applied the cream, it didn't hit me that I hadn't tried to lift my neck since getting back home.
I couldn't lift it to shave.
The muscles were too sore from the trauma of the surgery. I had to wipe off all of that shaving cream and accept defeat for the time being. : (
There is something cathartic about shaving yourself to a smooth, clean, almost ''Rain-X'' like finish, after coming out of the threshes of pain during the recovery period. : )
Each stroke, felt more and more amazing than the last...Watching the hairs dance their way off of the razor, down the drain, as the hot water readied the blades for their next run.
I feel 5 degrees cooler and so much better. UVA told me, if I couldn't shave, they'd be glad to. I politely declined the invite, wanting to have that special moment to myself.
I can't wait to shave again tomorrow, thanks for the help with the hook up on the sweet ass clippers B!
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Some quick "Thank you!" notes.
I just wanted to put a few thank yous out there since, I am not sure if I have yet, but feel it necessary.
I want to Thank all of the Church congregations out there, that have me included in their prayer chains.
Thank you so, so much. Your energy knows no limits and we appreciate the support more than I can ever express..I can feel your love, I just know I can. Its unlike anything I've ever felt in my life. God Bless you all!!
I want to thank all of my friends around the globe, new and old, a lot of which I've never met, and never will unfortunately..You know who you are, and how much you mean to me and Sheila. God Bless you all!!
I want to thank my family, both sides extended and non, I love you all. God Bless you!!
I want to thank the amazing corporation that I work for, my Manager, the team (Go, H.R./Recruiting!), and the Owner /CEO. She has to be one of the hardest working Women, I've ever met. She is a dynamo and her enthusiasm and energy, are contagious. (These people, understand and can fathom the illness I have and the journey I am on. They know I will be back one day and care about Me and not the "almighty dollar".) God Bless you all!!
Sheila keeps reminding me of how lucky I am to work for such a great company, and I know that...I thank God for all of you every single day and the opportunity I was fortunate to have, with the help of 2 great friends, getting me in the door.
I will thank them again when this is over, but I have to again, Thank the University Of Virginia Health System for taking such unparalleled care of me. You really have been a beacon of peace, education, understanding, patience, comfort, and love to me and my family. God bless you all and thank you for working so hard to get me well.
I only wish, I had the power to clone your facility by some stem cell wizardry, and the professionals that work there. I would put one in every state of our Country. There are so many that should follow your model of Excellence. If I could enjoy a glass of my late Gramps' wine, I would raise a glass to you all and toast, "Ah', Salute!"
Last, but never least from my mind, or heart. Thank you God for being with me on this journey. It sure feels amazing to have you riding ''shot gun'' next to me. I am blessed and do know that. Thank you!!
Just felt like getting a few of these out now and of course, more to come.
I want to Thank all of the Church congregations out there, that have me included in their prayer chains.
Thank you so, so much. Your energy knows no limits and we appreciate the support more than I can ever express..I can feel your love, I just know I can. Its unlike anything I've ever felt in my life. God Bless you all!!
I want to thank all of my friends around the globe, new and old, a lot of which I've never met, and never will unfortunately..You know who you are, and how much you mean to me and Sheila. God Bless you all!!
I want to thank my family, both sides extended and non, I love you all. God Bless you!!
I want to thank the amazing corporation that I work for, my Manager, the team (Go, H.R./Recruiting!), and the Owner /CEO. She has to be one of the hardest working Women, I've ever met. She is a dynamo and her enthusiasm and energy, are contagious. (These people, understand and can fathom the illness I have and the journey I am on. They know I will be back one day and care about Me and not the "almighty dollar".) God Bless you all!!
Sheila keeps reminding me of how lucky I am to work for such a great company, and I know that...I thank God for all of you every single day and the opportunity I was fortunate to have, with the help of 2 great friends, getting me in the door.
I will thank them again when this is over, but I have to again, Thank the University Of Virginia Health System for taking such unparalleled care of me. You really have been a beacon of peace, education, understanding, patience, comfort, and love to me and my family. God bless you all and thank you for working so hard to get me well.
I only wish, I had the power to clone your facility by some stem cell wizardry, and the professionals that work there. I would put one in every state of our Country. There are so many that should follow your model of Excellence. If I could enjoy a glass of my late Gramps' wine, I would raise a glass to you all and toast, "Ah', Salute!"
Last, but never least from my mind, or heart. Thank you God for being with me on this journey. It sure feels amazing to have you riding ''shot gun'' next to me. I am blessed and do know that. Thank you!!
Just felt like getting a few of these out now and of course, more to come.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Solid foods BREAKTHROUGH!!
Today I had a breakthrough and enjoyed my first real solid-foods.
(I've already lost about 15 or more lbs..)
This morning, after my Thrush meds had been in me an hour, Sheila suggested I try to get some Yogurt down. It has good biotics and cultures to help combat the Thrush, and restore a harmonious balance to my mouth.
I was able to get down a container w/o choking it up and it was delish! I had an ensure shake later on, just to give me a buffer for my noon meds..
My body was craving more solids, so for dinner, I thought I would treat my body, and try some of Panera Bread's famous Baked Potato soup. (Served Mon, Wed, and Fridays only.)
I am so pleased to say, I was able to destroy the entire cup-sized portion and it tasted better than any Thanksgiving, or Christmas Dinner, I've ever eaten in my life. (Sorry...Nana, Gammy, Gram, Grandma..but I can't lie, it was. ( lol!)
I attacked some of the creamy part first, taking my time, chasing each lovely spoonful with some cold spring water. I didn't entirely take-out the cups creamy content's, and left a bunch in the bowl, to begin conquering the small, block sized pieces of potato.
I made it through dinner and it was the most I've eaten since July 10th, 11:50pm, the night before my last surgery.
Im going to have a little more water here, and then enjoy some more yogurt...
To my container of Boston Creme Pie Yoplait yogurt that awaits it's fate I offer you these words..
READY YOURSELF!
(I've already lost about 15 or more lbs..)
This morning, after my Thrush meds had been in me an hour, Sheila suggested I try to get some Yogurt down. It has good biotics and cultures to help combat the Thrush, and restore a harmonious balance to my mouth.
I was able to get down a container w/o choking it up and it was delish! I had an ensure shake later on, just to give me a buffer for my noon meds..
My body was craving more solids, so for dinner, I thought I would treat my body, and try some of Panera Bread's famous Baked Potato soup. (Served Mon, Wed, and Fridays only.)
I am so pleased to say, I was able to destroy the entire cup-sized portion and it tasted better than any Thanksgiving, or Christmas Dinner, I've ever eaten in my life. (Sorry...Nana, Gammy, Gram, Grandma..but I can't lie, it was. ( lol!)
I attacked some of the creamy part first, taking my time, chasing each lovely spoonful with some cold spring water. I didn't entirely take-out the cups creamy content's, and left a bunch in the bowl, to begin conquering the small, block sized pieces of potato.
I made it through dinner and it was the most I've eaten since July 10th, 11:50pm, the night before my last surgery.
Im going to have a little more water here, and then enjoy some more yogurt...
To my container of Boston Creme Pie Yoplait yogurt that awaits it's fate I offer you these words..
READY YOURSELF!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
A visit from friends and an Experience.
Last night, we had a couple we're good friends with come by to visit. They drove 2 + hours, so we made sure they stayed the night with us in our guest room.
One of my wife's girlfriends also came by with her 11 yr old son.
He's a big fan of mine, and I, of him.
He wanted to bring me something to lift my spirits. He bought me a STAR WARS 'Pillowtime pal' that is the Jedi Master, Yoda.
(Thanks for helping him pick it up, I love it.)
After a few snacks and beverages that she brought with her. (save for me not eating any of it--still not on solids). We relaxed for a while, and Sheila filled them in on most of the journey so far. Her friend then gave her a gentle pedicure to help relax her feet and a foot massage. Afterwards we began to wind things down to get ready for bed.
Because of my med/pain control schedule, I stayed up with our 2 friends for an extra hour in order to take my Thrush and pain conrtrol meds at midnight, while the wife had turned in an hour earlier, to be ready for work.
Which, speaking of the Thrush situation, my tongue is looking a tremendous amount better, and I am feeling a lot better now than where I was this past Monday-Thursday.
Like, it's damn near night and day how I am feeling now. (Thanks again my awesome nurse friend, you probably saved my life and I am not just saying that either. You really did.)
I am able to speak for a few min at a time, and at a whisper (no more than 3 min really), before my mouth/throat becomes exhausted and its back to "radio silence". I'd rather rest my voice.
My swallowing has gotten better too. Granted, I do still have a ways to go until I can swallow-hard and w/o discomfort, also with getting it down the right tube. Sometimes, I can swallow w/o issue, others, I need my spit-cup.
(My nurse friend informed Sheila the other day that, my speech and swallowing abilities were likely affected by the sudden on set of the Thrush fungus, when I should've been healing. I can see his point, as my tongue was in some decent pain and I felt like how a pile of garbage smells.)
Just before I went to take my meds and turn in, something happened that I've never before experienced in my life.
I was stretched out on one couch, sitting upright with my legs infront of me. I was telling them that I was so thankful, that I had so many people around the world praying for me, how lucky I was, having them both there, Sheila, everyone pulling for me, and the subject changed to God for a moment.
I can't really remember what I said exactly, so forgive me for a second here..the conversation had kept going at this point. (they were now talking, I was still)
Suddenly, I felt this gentle, and warm pressure start to begin to build in both of my ears at the same time,. But it was like moving. Back and forth, like a ''whoosh-ing'' type of feeling and sound. I've never heard or felt anything like that.
I can say that with conviction too.
It felt like a force was going in through my ears, and down into my body. Again, in this ''in and out'' rhythm.
It got stronger by the second.
I couldn't really hear my friends at all anymore and they were sitting right there with me.
I started to whisper to them what was happening to me, because I wanted someone else to know. I remember telling them, how calm I felt. I wasn't in any pain at all, and was totally at peace.
I said to them that, I'd never felt anything like this, and I didn't want it to end. The tears poured out of me, as the calm washed over me.
I told them, I think I can feel him...I think I can feel God inside of me. It feels so good.
Then I began to thank him, over and over again and it was as if all of those people sending me vibes, prayers, energy. It reached me, and all at once.
It continued on for a little over a minute.
They each put a hand on my shoulder (my back was to them we were facing the TV) told me they were with me, loved me, and then feeling went away shortly after.
I crawled into bed at 12:15am and was asleep 5 min later, or sooner, and slept until 430am.
That was the longest I've slept since surgery.
Sheila also slept soundly through the night for the first time in a while too and woke up refreshed.
Thank you, God.
Tony
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Fresh air and my new friend..
The last thing my nurse friend told me before leaving for home, went something like this...
Him: "Damn dude, you need to get outside and walk around your yard, get some fresh air..It'll do you some good.."
Me: "Hmm., yeah no shit. Why didn't I think of that?"
Him: "Well, you haven't been feeling well still, but try, it'll be good for you"
So, about an hour ago, I slid my flip-flops on and headed outside.
Today, is the first time it's rained in close to 5 weeks.
You want to know what feels amazing? When its raining a fine mist, and I walk around the yard wearing my Reefs, feeling the wet grass lash at my feet.
I walked around the front yard for about 15 min, every so often, enjoying the cool Gatorade I sip slowly through my new friend, the bendy straw.
This tremendous feat of science and technology helps me swallow w/o too much difficulty. (the straw's length and angle, help push fluids past the worst of the surgical site, and gets the liquid to where I can enjoy it, w/o spraying the inside of my spit cup from choke-coughing it up.
I took a few min rest, to sit on my steps, since I am still not able to eat solid foods. At least I am moving the lymph fluid by walking around, adding to the needed circulation.
Him: "Damn dude, you need to get outside and walk around your yard, get some fresh air..It'll do you some good.."
Me: "Hmm., yeah no shit. Why didn't I think of that?"
Him: "Well, you haven't been feeling well still, but try, it'll be good for you"
So, about an hour ago, I slid my flip-flops on and headed outside.
Today, is the first time it's rained in close to 5 weeks.
You want to know what feels amazing? When its raining a fine mist, and I walk around the yard wearing my Reefs, feeling the wet grass lash at my feet.
I walked around the front yard for about 15 min, every so often, enjoying the cool Gatorade I sip slowly through my new friend, the bendy straw.
This tremendous feat of science and technology helps me swallow w/o too much difficulty. (the straw's length and angle, help push fluids past the worst of the surgical site, and gets the liquid to where I can enjoy it, w/o spraying the inside of my spit cup from choke-coughing it up.
I took a few min rest, to sit on my steps, since I am still not able to eat solid foods. At least I am moving the lymph fluid by walking around, adding to the needed circulation.
I did 1 lap around part of the back yard, but didn't want to venture too far, for fear of Ticks. (it's bad this season for some reason or another.)
I can't afford to have one latch on, especially with this new breed of "Lonestar Tick" that has emigrated to the DC, MD,VA regions.
(Hey, I don't name them. I can't stand the Dallas Cowgirls, I mean "boys".)
From what I've heard, if this tick gets a hold of you and has a bite, you will become allergic to eating Red meat.
I need to be able to enjoy some meat once I am back on solids and decided I'd enjoy some fresh air on my step instead. It feels so good outside..
More soon..
Dear Cigna,
Dear Cigna,
My mother in law just left from helping around the house and brought the mail in to me.
Thanks so much for approving my Neck dissection surgery. That was awesome of you.
Yours,
Tony ;]
My mother in law just left from helping around the house and brought the mail in to me.
Thanks so much for approving my Neck dissection surgery. That was awesome of you.
Yours,
Tony ;]
Friday, July 20, 2012
An onset of Thrush..
Today turned out to be another interesting day for me.
A friend who is an ER nurse came by to visit and spend time with me on his day off, since Sheila was at work.
He's got 20 years nursing in the ER under his belt and is an amazing individual.
As soon as he saw me, he mentioned wanting to look inside my mouth to see the excellent work UVA's daVinci robot had done with my tonsilectomy.
The moment I opened my mouth, he gasped, and informed me that I was right at the early stages of having Thrush.
I had no idea what he was talking about so, he broke it all down for me.
"Thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth caused by an overgrowth of the yeast organism Candida albicans. Thrush usually begins on the tongue and inside of the cheeks and may spread to the palate, gums, tonsils, and throat. In severe cases, the infection may spread to the larynx (voicebox), digestive tract, respiratory system, or skin." (from http://uvahealth.com/services/dentistry/conditions-treatments/11508)
(its like having a Yeast infection in your mouth)
Basically, if you've had surgery and are given a strong dose of Antibiotics afterwards, you either develop this condition, or you don't. Its a 50/50 dice roll.
I had noticed yesterday, that my tongue was white, fluffy and patchy with this "stuff". I thought it was par for the course after the surgery and didn't think anything of it.
Today, it had gotten a little worse.
He took a closer look and said luckily, it wasn't on the surgical site, in the back of my throat, nor on my uvula. It was only on my tongue and on each side of my cheeks.
I had him call UVA for me and ask for the nurse, of course I had to "gargle-out" my Medical # (ever so slowly) and just "eek" out the word"Yes" when asked if he could speak on my behalf, since Sheila was at work and they know I can't talk that well.
He told her what he saw, and his experience with seeing it in the ER for years. They had to call me back once the on call MD was alerted, but the nurse on the phone said he was probably correct, and they'd call something in for me.
Once the MD called, he told me to save my voice once he could hear me strain, and explained the med, how to take it, and that it was great that we caught this early. I should be all clear, or close to it in 72 hours.
At 445pm, I got my text message from CVS that my prescription for an Oral med, to help combat this was ready for pick up. My friend drove me up the street to get it and I started my first dose at 6pm, after my Ensure and pain meds were down.
All I have to do is swish it around my mouth for 30 seconds and swallow it. (to get to the back of my throat, down the esophagus, etc..) Thankfully, my cell has a stop watch on it, so I can time myself.
I am very, very, fortunate to know this man who came to care for me today. If it weren't for him becoming a nurse 20+ years ago, us meeting some time ago, and becoming friends...I'd have been in REAL TROUBLE 72 hours from now and back in the ER.
UVA will be made fully aware on the 27th, that I'll need an anti-fungal med after I come to from the neck dissection.
He told me, if they're going back in for another surgery, I need to be aware that this will happen again. (since it's already happened once.)
God bless you brother, I love you, and thank you for becoming a Nurse!
You just saved me from a mountain of trouble and I can never thank you enough.
:)
To be continued....
A friend who is an ER nurse came by to visit and spend time with me on his day off, since Sheila was at work.
He's got 20 years nursing in the ER under his belt and is an amazing individual.
As soon as he saw me, he mentioned wanting to look inside my mouth to see the excellent work UVA's daVinci robot had done with my tonsilectomy.
The moment I opened my mouth, he gasped, and informed me that I was right at the early stages of having Thrush.
I had no idea what he was talking about so, he broke it all down for me.
"Thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth caused by an overgrowth of the yeast organism Candida albicans. Thrush usually begins on the tongue and inside of the cheeks and may spread to the palate, gums, tonsils, and throat. In severe cases, the infection may spread to the larynx (voicebox), digestive tract, respiratory system, or skin." (from http://uvahealth.com/services/dentistry/conditions-treatments/11508)
(its like having a Yeast infection in your mouth)
Basically, if you've had surgery and are given a strong dose of Antibiotics afterwards, you either develop this condition, or you don't. Its a 50/50 dice roll.
I had noticed yesterday, that my tongue was white, fluffy and patchy with this "stuff". I thought it was par for the course after the surgery and didn't think anything of it.
Today, it had gotten a little worse.
He took a closer look and said luckily, it wasn't on the surgical site, in the back of my throat, nor on my uvula. It was only on my tongue and on each side of my cheeks.
I had him call UVA for me and ask for the nurse, of course I had to "gargle-out" my Medical # (ever so slowly) and just "eek" out the word"Yes" when asked if he could speak on my behalf, since Sheila was at work and they know I can't talk that well.
He told her what he saw, and his experience with seeing it in the ER for years. They had to call me back once the on call MD was alerted, but the nurse on the phone said he was probably correct, and they'd call something in for me.
Once the MD called, he told me to save my voice once he could hear me strain, and explained the med, how to take it, and that it was great that we caught this early. I should be all clear, or close to it in 72 hours.
At 445pm, I got my text message from CVS that my prescription for an Oral med, to help combat this was ready for pick up. My friend drove me up the street to get it and I started my first dose at 6pm, after my Ensure and pain meds were down.
All I have to do is swish it around my mouth for 30 seconds and swallow it. (to get to the back of my throat, down the esophagus, etc..) Thankfully, my cell has a stop watch on it, so I can time myself.
I am very, very, fortunate to know this man who came to care for me today. If it weren't for him becoming a nurse 20+ years ago, us meeting some time ago, and becoming friends...I'd have been in REAL TROUBLE 72 hours from now and back in the ER.
UVA will be made fully aware on the 27th, that I'll need an anti-fungal med after I come to from the neck dissection.
He told me, if they're going back in for another surgery, I need to be aware that this will happen again. (since it's already happened once.)
God bless you brother, I love you, and thank you for becoming a Nurse!
You just saved me from a mountain of trouble and I can never thank you enough.
:)
To be continued....
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Neck Dissection Surgery set.
Just back from my visit to UVA. I have some great news to share with you all.
Dr. Shonka told me today, that the post surgery tonsilectomy/tongue labs have confirmed, the Cancer didn't go down into any additional nerves, blood vessels, tissue., bone, etc.
WAHH HOO!!! :)
I am going back for neck dissection on 7/27.
There is a chance, I'll have to be in the OR longer if I bleed a lot. (hopefully not with how my luck has been.)
My R arm will require PT. My fingers might not work for a bit either. There is a chance I could get an infection too. (obviously being in a hospital, not worried though)
This neck surgery, should be easier than the Hell I am still in now.
It'll hurt, but they said it should be more manageable for me as far as pain goes. I'll wake up in the ICU, that way they can monitor me more on a consistent basis.
I'll probably be in the hospital for a few days before going home to rest.
Still can't get any real substantial amount of solid food down. The 1/2 scrambled egg on Tuesday went down ok. Yesterday's Egg not so well..
I tried home made mashed potatoes last night for dinner, that Sheila made with evaporated milk to make more creamy and got about 4 bites down before ''tapping out''.
My Dr. said I can skip solids for now, and as long as I drink my Ensure's, I will be set for surgery. (the milk chocolate flavor is amazing, I probably won't have vanilla anything for a long time...I'm so over that flavor and it's been my favorite for years.)
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Week one, post surgical..
Well, it's officially been one week since my tonsil and a piece of tongue was removed. Im still experiencing pain and require control for it. I've lost some weight too, as a result of not being able to eat solid foods, save for the eggs I've been able to eat since a week ago.
I have gotten better at being on top of the pain, but sometimes, it creeps right up on me. Its like, I'll be fine for a few hours, will swallow down water and there will be no pain-over a period of time.
Then all of a sudden, I'll swallow and its suddenly back w/o me really having noticed it.
My sleep schedule is still a nightmare for me, because I am up at least two to four times a night adding more pain control, or clearing "the scar tissue, saliva, mucus, etc.." out of my throat.
I've switched from our bedroom to our addition, sleeping on a very comfy air mattress (it really is a good model) since, I am now affecting Sheila's sleep schedule. :(
It sucks for us both, but I need her to be able to function at her job and get there w/o falling asleep at the wheel. They need their leader. (She's the store manager)
I was able to enjoy 1/2 of a Carnation Instant breakfast drink this morning, and almost was completely successful w/o breakfast turning into a total coughing-choke fest. I needed a break from the Kellogg's Protein shake.
I need a break from the flavor that is French Vanilla too, before I come to dislike it for a long time. Sheila is going to pick up some Chocolate flavored protein shakes for me on the way home from work.
I love chocolate and have missed it's sweet flavor.
Tomorrow, I head back down to UVA for my post-surg follow up appt. I'm going to need their help with more notes for Cigna. The Short Term Dis rep I've been assigned to, is killing me. :)
This asshole, made me speak on the phone the second day I was home from surgery, because I needed Sheila to call her. ( I couldn't really speak then, and still can't speak well at all, its a real burden.)
Sheila called, identified herself, gave them my social sec #, birthday, case #, where I work, etc..and that wasn't good enough. (Hipaa regulations are as sharp as a 2 sided samurai sword.)
I had Sheila put her on speaker, so I could hear what she was saying. Sheila told "my representative" I couldn't speak hardly at all, and even trying to was painful.
I remember the rep said, "Well, I need to hear him say it's ok for you to talk to me.."
(FINE, !%$&#%, HERE GOES NOTHING,..)
What came out sounded like a cross between a broken dog toy that has about lost it's squeak, and a grunting Orc from Mordor.
Sheila could see the pain on my face, and jumped in with,...How's that? You can hear he can't hardly speak, ARE WE OK NOW? OR SHOULD I PUT HIM THROUGH SOME MORE PAIN, SO YOU CAN FULLY UNDERSTAND WHAT HE'S GOING THROUGH!?
She finally said it was ok, and then went on to say, Well, he's only covered through "X date still", so we need some more paperwork to keep his benefits extended.
I don't get what these people don't understand about Cancer, tonsil removal as an adult, recovery, missing a piece of your tongue, etc...Oh, that's right, I forgot.
I'm to be raked over Cigna's fiery coals for a benefit I pay into every pay period and am entitled to as a Full Time employee.
*Just as a disclaimer, I am completely at ease with Cigna and their bullshit now. Sheila and I know how to attack the situation and I have come to terms with their garbage, until I am out of this nightmare.
Thank you all again for keeping up with my blog. I hope you all have a great rest of your week.
More tomorrow..
I have gotten better at being on top of the pain, but sometimes, it creeps right up on me. Its like, I'll be fine for a few hours, will swallow down water and there will be no pain-over a period of time.
Then all of a sudden, I'll swallow and its suddenly back w/o me really having noticed it.
My sleep schedule is still a nightmare for me, because I am up at least two to four times a night adding more pain control, or clearing "the scar tissue, saliva, mucus, etc.." out of my throat.
I've switched from our bedroom to our addition, sleeping on a very comfy air mattress (it really is a good model) since, I am now affecting Sheila's sleep schedule. :(
It sucks for us both, but I need her to be able to function at her job and get there w/o falling asleep at the wheel. They need their leader. (She's the store manager)
I was able to enjoy 1/2 of a Carnation Instant breakfast drink this morning, and almost was completely successful w/o breakfast turning into a total coughing-choke fest. I needed a break from the Kellogg's Protein shake.
I need a break from the flavor that is French Vanilla too, before I come to dislike it for a long time. Sheila is going to pick up some Chocolate flavored protein shakes for me on the way home from work.
I love chocolate and have missed it's sweet flavor.
Tomorrow, I head back down to UVA for my post-surg follow up appt. I'm going to need their help with more notes for Cigna. The Short Term Dis rep I've been assigned to, is killing me. :)
This asshole, made me speak on the phone the second day I was home from surgery, because I needed Sheila to call her. ( I couldn't really speak then, and still can't speak well at all, its a real burden.)
Sheila called, identified herself, gave them my social sec #, birthday, case #, where I work, etc..and that wasn't good enough. (Hipaa regulations are as sharp as a 2 sided samurai sword.)
I had Sheila put her on speaker, so I could hear what she was saying. Sheila told "my representative" I couldn't speak hardly at all, and even trying to was painful.
I remember the rep said, "Well, I need to hear him say it's ok for you to talk to me.."
(FINE, !%$&#%, HERE GOES NOTHING,..)
What came out sounded like a cross between a broken dog toy that has about lost it's squeak, and a grunting Orc from Mordor.
Sheila could see the pain on my face, and jumped in with,...How's that? You can hear he can't hardly speak, ARE WE OK NOW? OR SHOULD I PUT HIM THROUGH SOME MORE PAIN, SO YOU CAN FULLY UNDERSTAND WHAT HE'S GOING THROUGH!?
She finally said it was ok, and then went on to say, Well, he's only covered through "X date still", so we need some more paperwork to keep his benefits extended.
I don't get what these people don't understand about Cancer, tonsil removal as an adult, recovery, missing a piece of your tongue, etc...Oh, that's right, I forgot.
I'm to be raked over Cigna's fiery coals for a benefit I pay into every pay period and am entitled to as a Full Time employee.
*Just as a disclaimer, I am completely at ease with Cigna and their bullshit now. Sheila and I know how to attack the situation and I have come to terms with their garbage, until I am out of this nightmare.
Thank you all again for keeping up with my blog. I hope you all have a great rest of your week.
More tomorrow..
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Slow and steady wins the Egg.
I am pleased to announce that I was able to enjoy my first small solid-food meal, since 11pm on July 10th.
Holy shit, that's a week ago!
(Pre-surgery rules require no solid foods past midnight the night before you have surgery. Only clear liquids are allowed up until 2 hours before surgery. You may take a "chill pill'', or what have you, but with one sip of water only. This is pretty much universal..)
I really wanted to be able to get something solid down today, since the past 7 days my diet has consisted of the following..(I'll even add if it was a success or not in the swallowing department. The facility said I had no Dairy restrictions either, which I thought odd.)
Carnation Instant Breakfast drink. (FAIL, mucus inducer)
Sugar free popsicles Cherry and Grape flavored (Success!, but can't eat another one, EVER!)
Vanilla pudding snack pack (FAIL, mucus inducer)
Strawberry Jello (FAIL, just wouldn't go down right from the post surgical swelling)
Breyer's Vanilla Ice Cream (FAIL, mucus inducer)
(How in the hell little kids PLOW through this stuff in the Hospital, I'll have never have an idea. Those little lucky bastards!)
Coke Slurpee 7-11 (Success!)
Real fruit frozen Strawberry bar (Success!)
French Vanilla Kellogg Protein shake (Success!, but had to work up to it, still can't finish a whole 10 oz yet.)
So, as you can see, some things worked, a lot didn't.
Around 11:45am today, I decided to try eating a scrambled egg. (Success!!)
I was actually able to get through half of it, before my throat lit back up like a road flare.
I'll take any victory no matter how big or small.
Breathing and patience are key. I'm going to give mashed potatoes with evaporated milk in them a try for dinner.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Able to swallow pill form meds!
Today was a good day with a couple of breakthroughs. My sleep schedule has been pretty banged up with having to wake up at odd hours to take my medicine. I had a nice long nap today in the middle of the day, and I was able to swallow my anti and pro biotics without having to split them apart and taste their awful, but necessary medicines.
Granted, when I got the pill down, I immediately had my bottle of water next to me and began to drink with determination so as not to choke, on the water and pill, like had happened back in the hospital. (of course the post surgical trauma to the back of my throat didn't help my cause that night..)
I had buried the pill in a small spoonful of mashed up Strawberry fruit bar (you know, the real fruit bars they have in the stores.) and as soon as it entered my mouth, down the hatch-went the water in pursuit quickly behind it.
Im not sure what happened, but all of a sudden, a lot of water began pouring out of both of my nostrils. (yes, i realize there are holes that connect the Nose and Throat)
I could tell the pill made it back and was so relieved to be swallowing a pill, I didn't even care there was a waterfall pouring out of my nose! (lol!) It actually felt refreshing in a sense.
Im ok with having to experience my own personal ''waterfall splash park", as long as it means never having to taste those meds ala powder ever again.
Granted, when I got the pill down, I immediately had my bottle of water next to me and began to drink with determination so as not to choke, on the water and pill, like had happened back in the hospital. (of course the post surgical trauma to the back of my throat didn't help my cause that night..)
I had buried the pill in a small spoonful of mashed up Strawberry fruit bar (you know, the real fruit bars they have in the stores.) and as soon as it entered my mouth, down the hatch-went the water in pursuit quickly behind it.
Im not sure what happened, but all of a sudden, a lot of water began pouring out of both of my nostrils. (yes, i realize there are holes that connect the Nose and Throat)
I could tell the pill made it back and was so relieved to be swallowing a pill, I didn't even care there was a waterfall pouring out of my nose! (lol!) It actually felt refreshing in a sense.
Im ok with having to experience my own personal ''waterfall splash park", as long as it means never having to taste those meds ala powder ever again.
First Bit O' Protein!
I had a small breakthrough this morning. With the aide of pain control, calming my swallowing.. I was able to enjoy at least 5-7 oz. from a 10 oz bottle, of a French Vanilla soy/dairy protein shake made by the Kellog cereal corporation.
This is the first bit of dairy based protein that I've been able to enjoy since surgery.
My body was happy from the rumblings of vitamins, protein, fiber, potassium, and carbs, as they raced their way down, crossing the finish line, and into my stomach.
Maybe we'll try some yogurt later on and see if I can get some of its good bacteria down in me to wage war on the anti-biotics.
This is the first bit of dairy based protein that I've been able to enjoy since surgery.
My body was happy from the rumblings of vitamins, protein, fiber, potassium, and carbs, as they raced their way down, crossing the finish line, and into my stomach.
Maybe we'll try some yogurt later on and see if I can get some of its good bacteria down in me to wage war on the anti-biotics.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Being summoned to the Water.
Last night I wasn't feeling well. I think because I couldnt get anything into my stomach, and anything staying down there just wasn't happening.
Around 10pm, I got up and went into the bathroom. I had this feeling wash over me of wanting cool water on my skin and it was a pretty powerful feeling, being drawn to it.
I grabbed a washcloth, got it wet with cold water and started ringing out the cloth over my back and chest, and face. Sheila came in at this time, and couldn't figure out what was wrong.
Neither could I. She grabbed my Cola Slurpee (which does wonders when your stomach is upset. The Cola soothes your stomach lining. Trust me.
Try it the next time you have a stomach flu, or other related stomach illness that induces nausea. It works just as good as Ginger ale, if not better. (yes, Ginger is better for you though, but they don't make Ginger ale Slurpees..)
So, I had a few straw fulls and the cola felt good. I wanted more though...more coolness.
I got up from sitting on our toilet and went to the sink.
Turned on the cold water and began wiping my face, neck, head, chest, arms, back, with this cooled down washcloth. I couldn't stop either. I spent about 5 min each time doing this exercise. It felt so good to me.
I could tell it was freaking Sheila out a little. I got some paper and a pen and told her, I didnt know what was happening, but I knew I wanted cool water all over my body.
So, I got in our tub and sat down while using our hand held shower head, to spray down, as I knelt in the tub. It felt like Heaven to me.
I wasn't dehydrated, but couldn't keep fluids or meds down. We tried to crush up this pro-biotic med that helps your "good bacteria" and BOOM..threw that right up. The stomach acid kills my surgical site every time,. It burns so bad.
That was when I decided it was time to pay the ER at HCA Spotsylvania Reg Med Center, a visit.
The good nurse and Dr. hooked me to an IV to get fluids into me, added a drug to calm the vomiting, something for pain. I started feeling better almost instantly.
Around 10pm, I got up and went into the bathroom. I had this feeling wash over me of wanting cool water on my skin and it was a pretty powerful feeling, being drawn to it.
I grabbed a washcloth, got it wet with cold water and started ringing out the cloth over my back and chest, and face. Sheila came in at this time, and couldn't figure out what was wrong.
Neither could I. She grabbed my Cola Slurpee (which does wonders when your stomach is upset. The Cola soothes your stomach lining. Trust me.
Try it the next time you have a stomach flu, or other related stomach illness that induces nausea. It works just as good as Ginger ale, if not better. (yes, Ginger is better for you though, but they don't make Ginger ale Slurpees..)
So, I had a few straw fulls and the cola felt good. I wanted more though...more coolness.
I got up from sitting on our toilet and went to the sink.
Turned on the cold water and began wiping my face, neck, head, chest, arms, back, with this cooled down washcloth. I couldn't stop either. I spent about 5 min each time doing this exercise. It felt so good to me.
I could tell it was freaking Sheila out a little. I got some paper and a pen and told her, I didnt know what was happening, but I knew I wanted cool water all over my body.
So, I got in our tub and sat down while using our hand held shower head, to spray down, as I knelt in the tub. It felt like Heaven to me.
I wasn't dehydrated, but couldn't keep fluids or meds down. We tried to crush up this pro-biotic med that helps your "good bacteria" and BOOM..threw that right up. The stomach acid kills my surgical site every time,. It burns so bad.
That was when I decided it was time to pay the ER at HCA Spotsylvania Reg Med Center, a visit.
The good nurse and Dr. hooked me to an IV to get fluids into me, added a drug to calm the vomiting, something for pain. I started feeling better almost instantly.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Today has been the worst..
Today has been hell on earth. I've been able to get the antibiotics down by putting the powder into crushed popsicles.
Well, now Im throwing it all up. They should've given me liquid antibiotics because this powder shit is not cutting it. Its too bitter.
I've thrown up 2xs since getting up from a nap at 230pm. Sheila has gone to get my liquid anitbiotics, after calling the on call ENT @ UVA. I don't know whey they just didnt order liquid meds to begin with.
What a fucking nightmare I tell you...I really am looking forward to starting to feel better.
Sheila and I prayed for God to put his healing hands around my throat. Please pray for me.
Please...
Well, now Im throwing it all up. They should've given me liquid antibiotics because this powder shit is not cutting it. Its too bitter.
I've thrown up 2xs since getting up from a nap at 230pm. Sheila has gone to get my liquid anitbiotics, after calling the on call ENT @ UVA. I don't know whey they just didnt order liquid meds to begin with.
What a fucking nightmare I tell you...I really am looking forward to starting to feel better.
Sheila and I prayed for God to put his healing hands around my throat. Please pray for me.
Please...
The little things.
It's funny how we don't tend to notice the little things about life, when we go about our day to day routine.
Drinking...
I really miss being able to drink water like the rest of you out there, and can't wait to be able to open a bottle and destroy it. I wash my hands with cold water, because it feels good on my skin. The sugar free popsicles are working great though. Sheila beats them into a pulp inside of a sandwich bag, pours them into a bowl, and the tiny pieces feel so good on my throat. The soothing feeling is close to Heaven.
Breathing...
I need to thank my Yoga teacher Ellie Moody again. The breathing technique she told me to do (in through the nose, out through the mouth.) is helping tremendously with keeping me calm through the pain, and taking things slow.
Also, breathing in through your nose, and out through your mouth actually helps to add Oxygen to your blood to promote the healing process, and also helps me focus when having to swallow meds, etc..
Before my surgery I couldn't really tell the benefit of this exercise. Now I can, and am using my Yoga blocks to help get into position when I want to breathe and work on relaxing myself for a few min.
Drinking...
I really miss being able to drink water like the rest of you out there, and can't wait to be able to open a bottle and destroy it. I wash my hands with cold water, because it feels good on my skin. The sugar free popsicles are working great though. Sheila beats them into a pulp inside of a sandwich bag, pours them into a bowl, and the tiny pieces feel so good on my throat. The soothing feeling is close to Heaven.
Breathing...
I need to thank my Yoga teacher Ellie Moody again. The breathing technique she told me to do (in through the nose, out through the mouth.) is helping tremendously with keeping me calm through the pain, and taking things slow.
Also, breathing in through your nose, and out through your mouth actually helps to add Oxygen to your blood to promote the healing process, and also helps me focus when having to swallow meds, etc..
Before my surgery I couldn't really tell the benefit of this exercise. Now I can, and am using my Yoga blocks to help get into position when I want to breathe and work on relaxing myself for a few min.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Recovery from 2nd surgery
Wow...this fucking sucks. I still can't fathom how children make it through having both tonsils removed. The only guess I can hazard, would be their muscles aren't fully developed yet? Hence, not a lot of recovery time needed and they jump right into ice cream.
I am taking water by the teaspoon since I can't "just drink it". It takes me an hour and a few to get through one bottle, one spooned-sip at a time.
I took a fast look back there, and what I saw freaked me out a little. I won't be going back to the mirror anytime soon.
Producing a lot of saliva and mucus, im able to swallow some, but have to spit the mucus out.
I hope by tomorrow, I'll start to feel a little better. Each day I put behind me Im that much closer to not feeling pain. (fingers crossed!)
I would really love to be able to enjoy drinking water. I miss it already and by the spoonful, it takes me being patient, focusing on my yoga breathing and tilting my head down and to the left.
Last night, I had 1/2 a popsicle, one bite of ice cream (which was a mistake!! milk produces more saliva and mucus.) and some water. I'll be working on more water through out the day as I need to exercise those throat/neck muscles.
I really can't wait to start feeling better, but need to keep my mind grounded, focused, and take my time.
I am taking water by the teaspoon since I can't "just drink it". It takes me an hour and a few to get through one bottle, one spooned-sip at a time.
I took a fast look back there, and what I saw freaked me out a little. I won't be going back to the mirror anytime soon.
Producing a lot of saliva and mucus, im able to swallow some, but have to spit the mucus out.
I hope by tomorrow, I'll start to feel a little better. Each day I put behind me Im that much closer to not feeling pain. (fingers crossed!)
I would really love to be able to enjoy drinking water. I miss it already and by the spoonful, it takes me being patient, focusing on my yoga breathing and tilting my head down and to the left.
Last night, I had 1/2 a popsicle, one bite of ice cream (which was a mistake!! milk produces more saliva and mucus.) and some water. I'll be working on more water through out the day as I need to exercise those throat/neck muscles.
I really can't wait to start feeling better, but need to keep my mind grounded, focused, and take my time.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Radical Tonsilectomy and..
Just getting home to rest and relax from my radical tonsilectomy. The surgeons ended up having to take a piece of my tongue out too. (which they didn't know unti going back, and after the tonsil was out)
Granted, its not half of it, but a portion none the less. They had to do this to ensure the Cancer doesn't spread into my tongue.
The procedure went well, then I had a few hours stay in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit. (PACU)
I wasn't really a fan of my visit to PACU this time, as I didn't get to see Sheila, or my Dad for couple more hours. My Dad drove 3 1/2 hours one way, so I understood him having to be back.
The staff wheeled me to the Short Stay unit where I was taken to my room for the night.
The entire staff took excellent care of me, and because I was in tremendous pain, my nurses spent some a lot of time ensuring I was pain free. (most of the other patients were pretty stable from what I was told.)
There was a little bit of a really scary moment for me the first hour I was there.
My nurse received orders from the Dr. to start me on an anti-biotic. The issue was, I couldn't really swallow. Every time I tried small sips of water, it was like I was drowning. (since half of my throat is swollen from the procedure, I have to learn how to swallow again)
The RN handed me one pill first, and I thought...hmm...how's THIS getting down there, if I can't swallow?
I had a sip of water before taking the pill and once I tried to swallow, I then started choking on the pill and water. (and that was when the panic set in.)
My poor wife Sheila was right next to me too and had to watch that horrible experience go down, knowing she couldn't help me. I couldn't look at her, but could hear her cry and saw her praying from the corner of my eye. I was so crushed she had to witness this.. : \
After a few"back percussions" I was able to relax knowing I had actually gotten it back and could breathe again. (no bull shit though, I was pretty scared and I can't imagine what Sheila went through. I thought they were going to have to take extensive measures.)
At that moment, the nurse apologized profusely and they would now crush my pills into apple sauce or ice cream.
Around 930pm, we heard the jackhammers begin their concerto of destruction. They went all night long, maybe stopping for 2 one hour breaks. UVA has been expanding their parking garage and that noise that pretty much ruined our chances of a good sleep.
I asked my night RN Dawn, "Jackhammers, really at 1030pm?" I thought this was a hospital and everyone needed QUIET in order to rest from having their chest cracked open, brain surgery, new Mommies to be, etc..etc.. I guess some of ''the suits'', dont' take into mind about the sick people at their facility needing PEACE AND QUIET. (its all about the $$$$ though people, Im sure you knew that already..)
Once I received my 2nd sleep aide for the night, Dawn brought us ear plugs, which allowed us to get about 3-4 hours of sleep.
Once I received my 2nd sleep aide for the night, Dawn brought us ear plugs, which allowed us to get about 3-4 hours of sleep.
I have to give praise and Thanks to the Short Stay Unit at UVA, and their entire staff.
All of my RNs ( Yes, even the one who thought I was ready for a hard pill and more water, when I wasn't.) I'd also like to thank the Speech Lang Pathologist who taught me a new way to swallow, and Dr. Robinson who was also in with the surgical team during the procedure.
Ill be resting at home and my follow up appt with Dr. Jameson is set for 7/19 to get me scheduled for my neck dissection surgery.
To be continued..
Thank you for following my story. Its so touching to see such support, and on a global scale too.
Means so much to me!
Tony
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Cigna's document fiend.
(I'd like to preface this entry, by commending my point of contact in the HR benefits department at the company I work for. She has been a guiding, understanding, and calming light in the nightmare that is, Documentation. Thank you so much, you've been an amazing help.)
Dear Cigna "Benefits" department,
Dear Cigna "Benefits" department,
Good Afternoon.
Do you know what Cancer is? Its one of the world's deadliest killers that human beings either stand up and bravely face, or sadly submit to every day.
Do you know what Cancer is? Its one of the world's deadliest killers that human beings either stand up and bravely face, or sadly submit to every day.
Do you know what Cancer does to someone physically, emotionally, or spiritually?
And by that I mean, when they first find out.....when they start on their long road of treatment....when they've finally finished and it's time to let the body rest.....heal.....come back-from the hell it just walked through.
And by that I mean, when they first find out.....when they start on their long road of treatment....when they've finally finished and it's time to let the body rest.....heal.....come back-from the hell it just walked through.
Do you know someone who's had Cancer, survived Cancer, or died from Cancer?
Well, I shouldn't wonder that a thoughtless, oblivious, and selfish bean counter like yourself wouldn't know how to talk to, or treat someone faced with a situation like this.
Im a tax paying, hard working, God fearing American citizen. I pay "X amount" of my pre tax dollars, into Short and Long Term disability ''benefits'' all year long. Benefits that are supposed to protect me and my mental well being.
Well, the first check I received was only for one day of pay and was sent to where I work, INSTEAD OF MY HOME. (WHY ON EARTH...)
When I filed this claim, I gave them my home address. Of course they know where I work, but why would they send my check there?
Well, the first check I received was only for one day of pay and was sent to where I work, INSTEAD OF MY HOME. (WHY ON EARTH...)
When I filed this claim, I gave them my home address. Of course they know where I work, but why would they send my check there?
Despite having my condition already documented, and knowing that I was going back for 2 additional surgeries, and then radiation, do I get hit with "Im going to call the Dr. to make sure he did the surgery.." and, "You're only getting one more check until we get more documentation about your condition.."
I haven't even gotten one full disability check yet. The one on the way, will be the only check until I give their document fiend another paper to ''push'' into Cigna's disabled-disability-benefit-vein system.
I have Cancer and in my neck, and its in my 2 Right lymph nodes. Maybe you've heard of the lymphatic system? Considering you don't know shit about the ''empathetic'' system.
The lymphatic system circulates 'lymph fluid' through our entire bodies. You should look it up and what Cancer can do to that system, instead of looking at the bottom line of your profit margin. You might learn something!
Im having surgery tomorrow and now have to worry about when my next benefit check will get to me and why I have to keep sending note after note to keep a benefit that I pay for, "turned on" so I can pay my share of the bills.
I haven't even gotten one full disability check yet. The one on the way, will be the only check until I give their document fiend another paper to ''push'' into Cigna's disabled-disability-benefit-vein system.
I have Cancer and in my neck, and its in my 2 Right lymph nodes. Maybe you've heard of the lymphatic system? Considering you don't know shit about the ''empathetic'' system.
The lymphatic system circulates 'lymph fluid' through our entire bodies. You should look it up and what Cancer can do to that system, instead of looking at the bottom line of your profit margin. You might learn something!
Im having surgery tomorrow and now have to worry about when my next benefit check will get to me and why I have to keep sending note after note to keep a benefit that I pay for, "turned on" so I can pay my share of the bills.
YOU'VE GOT TO BE FUCKING KIDDING ME.
I had to get that out before surgery tomorrow..
Will update the blog once I get home and am resting.
I had to get that out before surgery tomorrow..
Will update the blog once I get home and am resting.
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