It's been 3 1/2 months since Tony checked into UCLA, for what was supposed to be a 4 day stay. At first it was shocking....then a roller coaster ride, and now that we have accepted our situation, we are in it for "the long-haul."
We can hardly believe that our loved ones are still in the fight with us. Meals still arrive, (Bill and Joyce Thomas just brought in dinner, and prayed for us before leaving), cards are still being delivered, and the phone calls and e-mails expressing concern have not stopped.
It is my experience that people begin to "disconnect" from any situation if it continues long enough. We all grow tired, weary and just want it to be overwith.
Believe me, if Tony and I could run away from it, we would be putting on our Nike's
right now! We can't, but our friends and family can....but they don't.
Tony and I had a good day yesterday. We drove home from UCLA and Tony was feeling very well, almost "chatty." Just as Tony was getting into bed after we arrived home, he fell. It was a hard fall, that wrenched his lower back. He also hit his head pretty hard on the leg of a table. His head is fine, but his back hurts today.
Tony was disheartened by the fall and woke up sad today. That is until John Scolinos and Gary Harter paid him a visit. Tony's friends taking time out of their day to visit, lifted his spirits immensley. Seems like a good time to thank all of you who have visited Tony....so THANK YOU!!
"We wait in hope for the Lord: he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you."
Psalm 33:20-22
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Saturday, September 25, 2010
The 4th Round has Begun...
Tony checked into UCLA this morning and everything was ready and waiting for him. Everytime Tony is admitted to the 6th floor it's like coming back to visit friends.....nurses, caretakers, doctors....even the dining staff that delivers Tony's meals.
An Echo-cardiogram was performed on Tony late this afternoon to determine if his heart ejection rate is strong enough to accept the chemo agent, Doxorubicin. It was.....and was in the 60% range, (60-65% is considered normal range.) This means his heart is getting stronger every day, as the last two Echos' revealed Tony's ejection rate at 50-55%.
The scans that need to be done following this 4th round of chemo, will not be done next week, while Tony is in the hospital. The doctors told us, today, that the scans should be done 4 or 5 days following the last day of chemo, in order to get the best possible data on Tony's progress againist Lymphoma. We will have to return to UCLA on Monday or Tuesday, October 4th or 5th, to have all the scans performed. Hopefully it will be no more than 24 hours before we are informed of the results.
Tony's spirits are high, and he feels he is winning the battle againist cancer. We will be shocked if we hear anything counter to that belief after the scans are read. We will post the results and the doctors comments on this blog as soon as we have them.
Please continue to pray for Tony and our entire family. The stress is beginning to show, and somedays I feel like my family is coming unraveled. I thought we were all handeling this situation pretty well.....but it's starting to "take it's toll".
The devotions I read each morning to Tony and now Vanessa and Michael, DO help to keep us focused on our Savior. How blessed we are to have Him, know Him and be able to count on Him to never leave us.
Whatever happens next week, next month or next year, he remains the same, and faithful to His people.
May it all Glorify Him.
An Echo-cardiogram was performed on Tony late this afternoon to determine if his heart ejection rate is strong enough to accept the chemo agent, Doxorubicin. It was.....and was in the 60% range, (60-65% is considered normal range.) This means his heart is getting stronger every day, as the last two Echos' revealed Tony's ejection rate at 50-55%.
The scans that need to be done following this 4th round of chemo, will not be done next week, while Tony is in the hospital. The doctors told us, today, that the scans should be done 4 or 5 days following the last day of chemo, in order to get the best possible data on Tony's progress againist Lymphoma. We will have to return to UCLA on Monday or Tuesday, October 4th or 5th, to have all the scans performed. Hopefully it will be no more than 24 hours before we are informed of the results.
Tony's spirits are high, and he feels he is winning the battle againist cancer. We will be shocked if we hear anything counter to that belief after the scans are read. We will post the results and the doctors comments on this blog as soon as we have them.
Please continue to pray for Tony and our entire family. The stress is beginning to show, and somedays I feel like my family is coming unraveled. I thought we were all handeling this situation pretty well.....but it's starting to "take it's toll".
The devotions I read each morning to Tony and now Vanessa and Michael, DO help to keep us focused on our Savior. How blessed we are to have Him, know Him and be able to count on Him to never leave us.
Whatever happens next week, next month or next year, he remains the same, and faithful to His people.
May it all Glorify Him.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Overwhelmed with Love and Support
Since this ordeal began, last spring, Tony and I have had a lot of support from neighbors, friends and family. I think I would be hard pressed to find another family who has been given as much as we have in the way of visits, cards, meals, e-mails, comments on this blog, prayers and financial help. Everyone has pulled together to help Tony get well and help our family get through these dark days.
This past week, I have gone out to run errands just 3 times. During two of those outings I have run into people that know our situation. Both times I have gotten hugs, tears, prayers and after arriving home, found money in my purse. One friend tried to pay for my (huge) grocery tab while I was checking out. I was able to circumvent her efforts, only to find the money in my purse after she left.
The mailman delivers cards that cheer us, nearly everyday. Lovely written words fill the cards and I read each one to Tony.
Yesterday I found a beautiful package on my porch from Bob and Betty Nease. A perfect devotional book and a gift card to Claro's. I think Betty or Bob read my blog and found out that Tony loves Claro's! I now read a devotional to my husband each morning, when he wakes. I found flowers on my doorstep last week. No note to say who they were from, and that's not the first time.
There are so many other things that have happened, things that have been said and done on our behalf, but there is not enough space to write it all down, here. I have expressed our love and gratitude many times on this blog. What I want to express now is just this: Those of you who say my glass is always half full, that I see the best in people....and that I walk around with rose colored glasses on....you may be right. However, I have a lot of evidence to support my point of view.
This past week, I have gone out to run errands just 3 times. During two of those outings I have run into people that know our situation. Both times I have gotten hugs, tears, prayers and after arriving home, found money in my purse. One friend tried to pay for my (huge) grocery tab while I was checking out. I was able to circumvent her efforts, only to find the money in my purse after she left.
The mailman delivers cards that cheer us, nearly everyday. Lovely written words fill the cards and I read each one to Tony.
Yesterday I found a beautiful package on my porch from Bob and Betty Nease. A perfect devotional book and a gift card to Claro's. I think Betty or Bob read my blog and found out that Tony loves Claro's! I now read a devotional to my husband each morning, when he wakes. I found flowers on my doorstep last week. No note to say who they were from, and that's not the first time.
There are so many other things that have happened, things that have been said and done on our behalf, but there is not enough space to write it all down, here. I have expressed our love and gratitude many times on this blog. What I want to express now is just this: Those of you who say my glass is always half full, that I see the best in people....and that I walk around with rose colored glasses on....you may be right. However, I have a lot of evidence to support my point of view.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Better..
Tony's fever broke on Friday and he is feeling much better. Additionally he is now out of nadir (the ill effects of the chemo), and has been able to have his meals with the family outside of the bedroom. Football season is now underway and Tony has been enjoying watching the games and commenting on the calls, plays..etc. It's nice to see Tony back in his recliner, while watching "the game" with friends and family.
Jeffrey is the physical therapist who comes to the house and exercises Tony, concentrating on his leg/foot. Tony and Jeffrey have decided that Tony will be walking without a walker, by next summer. Both Tony and Jeffrey seem bound and determined to make that goal a reality. To that end, Tony exercises everyday, is getting in and out of bed and up and out of chairs. He is walking through the house as much as he can.
Tony weighs 177 lbs,and continues to gain small amounts of weight, which we consider a victory. Tony was down to 165 lbs at one time. We hope he gets back up to 200 to 210 lbs., by Christmas.
Tony will be admitted to UCLA on Friday, September 24th, for his 4th round of chemotherapy. Scans (PET, CT and MRI's) and blood work will be done, following this round, to determine whether or not the chemotherapy is working, or if the doctors need to change treatment.
A big thank you to all of you who have commented on this blog, or sent us e-mail. Both Tony and I feel encouraged and uplifted just knowing you are thinking and caring about us. We feel the prayers and know the Holy Spirit never leaves us.
We are grateful.
Jeffrey is the physical therapist who comes to the house and exercises Tony, concentrating on his leg/foot. Tony and Jeffrey have decided that Tony will be walking without a walker, by next summer. Both Tony and Jeffrey seem bound and determined to make that goal a reality. To that end, Tony exercises everyday, is getting in and out of bed and up and out of chairs. He is walking through the house as much as he can.
Tony weighs 177 lbs,and continues to gain small amounts of weight, which we consider a victory. Tony was down to 165 lbs at one time. We hope he gets back up to 200 to 210 lbs., by Christmas.
Tony will be admitted to UCLA on Friday, September 24th, for his 4th round of chemotherapy. Scans (PET, CT and MRI's) and blood work will be done, following this round, to determine whether or not the chemotherapy is working, or if the doctors need to change treatment.
A big thank you to all of you who have commented on this blog, or sent us e-mail. Both Tony and I feel encouraged and uplifted just knowing you are thinking and caring about us. We feel the prayers and know the Holy Spirit never leaves us.
We are grateful.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
A Little Rough
Tony has not felt well over the past 48 hours. He is running a low-grade fever and is weak. Yesterday the home care nurse drew some of Tony's blood. This afternoon, Dr. Territo from UCLA Oncology called and said Tony's hemagloben count is too low and Tony will need to have a 3 -bag blood transfusion, tomorrow morning at UCLA. Additionally, the fever indicates a possible infection and Tony is now on the antibiotic, Cipro.
The home care nurse taught Michael how to flush out the lines that enter into Tony's right arm. Michael will teach Vanessa and Patrice, so that either of them, can take care of this daily task. Tony was able to get a shower, with Michael's help, and the aid of a shower chair. He says it feels great to have a shower after months of sponge baths.
Tonight's dinner was brought to us by friends... Bill and Linda Larew. It was so nice to walk in from work and see that beautiful hot meal, waiting for my family. Tony and I were able to eat together while watching a little tv, this evening. We find ourselves enjoying the simpliest of things these days.
We are very much looking forward to this upcoming weekend. Our 4 month old Grandson is coming for an overnight visit.
I don't know who is more excited. Vanessa, Tony or me. I know the camera will get plenty of use this weekend.
The home care nurse taught Michael how to flush out the lines that enter into Tony's right arm. Michael will teach Vanessa and Patrice, so that either of them, can take care of this daily task. Tony was able to get a shower, with Michael's help, and the aid of a shower chair. He says it feels great to have a shower after months of sponge baths.
Tonight's dinner was brought to us by friends... Bill and Linda Larew. It was so nice to walk in from work and see that beautiful hot meal, waiting for my family. Tony and I were able to eat together while watching a little tv, this evening. We find ourselves enjoying the simpliest of things these days.
We are very much looking forward to this upcoming weekend. Our 4 month old Grandson is coming for an overnight visit.
I don't know who is more excited. Vanessa, Tony or me. I know the camera will get plenty of use this weekend.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Good Day...
Yesterday, was a very good day. Tony walked down the hall and into the family room, where he was able to sit in the recliner for over 2 hours! All of our Frisina side of the family were here and everyone ate the delicious lunch that Debbie brought, from one of Tony's favorite places....Claro's Italian Deli. Tony was able to visit, eat and enjoy the day.
When Tony returned to his bedroom, he found a big surprise. Brother Larry, had bought and installed an air conditioner....what a difference! Now the master bedroom feels as good as the rest of the house, and Tony is resting and sleeping much easier. Larry (Airde), has always been a caring, generous brother...so this act of kindness is not out of character for him. Thank you Airde!
We are expecting the Home Care Nurse to stop in today. She will draw some blood and clean the tubes that remain in Tony's arm. The blood will be sent to UCLA and we will be contacted tomorrow as to whether or not Tony's hemoglobin count is above 9.0. If not, then it will mean a trip to Huntington Hospital for a transfusion.
Even in Tony's weakened condition, Tony is a good father, loving husband and friend. He now counsels, disaplines and exercises his responsibilities, as head of the family, from his bed. Sister-in-law, Dana, says.. "he acts like a Don, or a Godfather", demanding kisses on the check before people leave. Everyday brings a little something new from Tony. Never a dull moment, per usual around the Frisina house.
We hope all of you have a relaxing day, this Labor Day, and you enjoy and delight in family and friends. They are the BEST things in this life.
When Tony returned to his bedroom, he found a big surprise. Brother Larry, had bought and installed an air conditioner....what a difference! Now the master bedroom feels as good as the rest of the house, and Tony is resting and sleeping much easier. Larry (Airde), has always been a caring, generous brother...so this act of kindness is not out of character for him. Thank you Airde!
We are expecting the Home Care Nurse to stop in today. She will draw some blood and clean the tubes that remain in Tony's arm. The blood will be sent to UCLA and we will be contacted tomorrow as to whether or not Tony's hemoglobin count is above 9.0. If not, then it will mean a trip to Huntington Hospital for a transfusion.
Even in Tony's weakened condition, Tony is a good father, loving husband and friend. He now counsels, disaplines and exercises his responsibilities, as head of the family, from his bed. Sister-in-law, Dana, says.. "he acts like a Don, or a Godfather", demanding kisses on the check before people leave. Everyday brings a little something new from Tony. Never a dull moment, per usual around the Frisina house.
We hope all of you have a relaxing day, this Labor Day, and you enjoy and delight in family and friends. They are the BEST things in this life.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Labor Day Weekend
Tony is enjoying being home and after 4 days we are beginning to get into a routine here at home. Patrice, Michael and Vanessa each have their specific duties and so far everyone is doing well. Michael "exercises" Tony 5 days a week, and Vanessa takes over the remaining 2 days. With the physical therapist starting 3 days this week, Tony will be getting plenty of exercise.
Tony is looking forward to seeing family, in his own home, this weekend. Tony's Mom, sister, brother and niece and nephew are due in a couple of hours with lunch for everyone, in hand. Tomorrow, Tony's sister-in-law Dana and family will come to visit.
The Oncologist told Tony last week, that 3 more rounds of chemotherapy will be administered. After the next round (4th), the scans will be done. PET Scan, MRI's and CT's....all to determine how well the chemo is working in getting rid of the cancer. At that time, the doctors will continue using the same chemo agents or change course. We will keep you posted.
Our request for prayers at this time are specific. That Tony's spirits remain high, and that the nerve damage to his arm and leg will be overcome. That the exercises do and will help Tony recover the use of his arm and leg.
Tony is looking forward to seeing family, in his own home, this weekend. Tony's Mom, sister, brother and niece and nephew are due in a couple of hours with lunch for everyone, in hand. Tomorrow, Tony's sister-in-law Dana and family will come to visit.
The Oncologist told Tony last week, that 3 more rounds of chemotherapy will be administered. After the next round (4th), the scans will be done. PET Scan, MRI's and CT's....all to determine how well the chemo is working in getting rid of the cancer. At that time, the doctors will continue using the same chemo agents or change course. We will keep you posted.
Our request for prayers at this time are specific. That Tony's spirits remain high, and that the nerve damage to his arm and leg will be overcome. That the exercises do and will help Tony recover the use of his arm and leg.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Tony is Home!
After 70 days in the hospital, Tony arrived home late yesterday. His just cleaned and sanitized bedroom, with crisp new sheets and bedding awaited him, thanks to dear friend Maria Dultz. While Patrice, Cheryl and Kathy were at UCLA, Maria was busy on the homefront.
A bright, beautiful sign, hung on the front of the house, greeted Tony. A little fairy told us that the artist was Lauryn Dultz. Thank you Lauryn!
Tony is very happy to be home and had a good uninterupted night's sleep. Kathy was here bright and early this morning to administer the plethora of medications Tony must take. Fifteen different prescriptions 2-3 times per day.....she is even hand feeding Tony the meds, buried in applesauce!
Tony was touched and relieved to see the modifications made to the bathroom and bedroom. Everything was done in a few hours on Monday night, when Tony's buddies showed up and went to work. Wow!! Things really get done when you have Doug Elffers, Dale Brown, Ray Lumis, Don Haggstrom, Walter Trypucko and John Scolinos
armed with tools and ready to help their friends.
I (Patrice), was thinking earlier today, that over the past 70 days, Tony and I have talked a lot more about the blessings of friends and family and how so many of you have truly "been there" for us, than we have talked about the cancer. We have loved and been loved. If there is a blessing in walking thru this difficult time, it's just that, love.
**I see this morning that our niece, Heather, quoted the PERFECT scripture in her response to my blog, above.
"And this commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you" John 13:34
A bright, beautiful sign, hung on the front of the house, greeted Tony. A little fairy told us that the artist was Lauryn Dultz. Thank you Lauryn!
Tony is very happy to be home and had a good uninterupted night's sleep. Kathy was here bright and early this morning to administer the plethora of medications Tony must take. Fifteen different prescriptions 2-3 times per day.....she is even hand feeding Tony the meds, buried in applesauce!
Tony was touched and relieved to see the modifications made to the bathroom and bedroom. Everything was done in a few hours on Monday night, when Tony's buddies showed up and went to work. Wow!! Things really get done when you have Doug Elffers, Dale Brown, Ray Lumis, Don Haggstrom, Walter Trypucko and John Scolinos
armed with tools and ready to help their friends.
I (Patrice), was thinking earlier today, that over the past 70 days, Tony and I have talked a lot more about the blessings of friends and family and how so many of you have truly "been there" for us, than we have talked about the cancer. We have loved and been loved. If there is a blessing in walking thru this difficult time, it's just that, love.
**I see this morning that our niece, Heather, quoted the PERFECT scripture in her response to my blog, above.
"And this commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you" John 13:34
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