Orthopedic Report August 21, 2012

Tuesday, 8/21/2012, I had an appointment to have my right knee checked.  This is the knee that has the revised prosthesis.  Last summer I wore a cast allowing the knee to heal from the serious staph infection.  This summer I have been using a walker and wearing a cast to avoid falling.  Yesterday the doctor told me I must continue to use a walker and he issued me an identical brace to wear.  He agreed to 4 weeks of physical therapy which MIGHT strengthen my leg.  It will definitely not eliminate the brace or walker.  I want to try it even though I will not accomplish much.  He plainly explained that I will have to use the brace and walker for the rest of my life.

My sphere radiation treatments are completed.  Now I'm waiting to allow them to do their work.  September 17 I have both a CT and a PET scan.  On October 3, I return to the radiation oncologist to hear the results  of these tests.   I have no idea what will be suggested next.  These treatments were for my liver lesions  which have been present since my first diagnosis in April 2010.  They had become active and were seen by the surgeon who removed my gall bladder.  He took photographs of them and suggested I go to my oncologist. 

Currently I have NO PAIN, which is wonderful.  I am tired but it is explained by the accumulation of chemo therapy, numerous anesthetics, surgeries, etc.  

I truly believe God has allowed me to continue to live to witness that you can live beyond your "predicted prognosis".  I am to explain to others suffering from pancreatic cancer stage IV that God is with them, pray for them, and encourage them.

I appreciate all the prayers which have been prayed for me.

Prayerfully,
Barbara

Second Spheres Injection

Tuesday, August 7, 2012, I had my second injection of spheres to my liver lesions.   This went smoothly and they have a wonderful team at Fairfax Hospital for radiation therapy.  The prep and recovery take about 2/3 of the 4.5 to 5 hour period that you are at the hospital.  You're in la la land, not caring what they do to you, being neither fully asleep or fully awake.  I had no pain this time even after I got home.  I had one bout with nausea but it settled quickly, as opposed to 5 times having an upset stomach last time.  This is to be the last radiation injection.  I go for an office visit  in about a month, then schedule a PET scan probably mid October.

August 21 I go to my orthopedist to have my right knee checked.  I'm still wearing a brace and using a walker.  It seems to be better and hopefully I can get a smaller brace.  This brace has kept me from falling but it is heavy and makes me tired. 

All in all I feel OK.  I have an abundance of reasons for feeling tired so I just do whatever I can and don't worry about the rest!   Hampton continues to be a good caregiver.  He, our 2 grandsons, and David are in WV this weekend.  They're attending West Virginia Baptist Men and Boys' Camp at the WV Baptist Camp in Cowen, WV.  Making good Memories!

Prayerfully,
Mary Barbara Kirk Hoge

Yesterday in Jeremiah 1:5  I read:  "God has a holy purpose designed for you."

Spheres, Beading, Whatever

Wed August 1 I went to Dr Drooz (radiation oncologist) for an office visit.  He looked at me, punched my abdomen, listened to my breathing & heart and said I am doing fine from my earlier radiation spheres treatment.  His nurse had told me that my blood work was good.  He asked if I was tired.  I said yes and for the first 4 days following the procedure I confirmed his meaning of FATIGUE.  I told him now I'm just tired and he confirmed that all cancer treatments generally affect patients that way.   Every doctor tells me that and that I should expect to be tired.  My friends who're mainly older than I tell me that it's AGE.  My youngest child suggested  I develop some younger friends.   I don't think I could possibly keep up with younger people.

God's blessing me and I know friends are praying!

Barbara