Posts
It's been quite some time since I've posted, but it's time again. I have been poked and prodded for the last several weeks and it's not over yet. I'm being tested to see if I'm healthy enough to go on the "LIST" for transplant. So far so good. I've found out that my heart is pretty darn good and my teeth are in great shape. The other day I had some blood drawn (23 vials to be exact) and found out that I'm not on any illegal drugs, that I'm low on some stuff and high on others. I also found out that I'm O neg. So, now they want me to bring up my counts on things like potassium and iron and lower my triglycerides and cholesterol numbers....
I don't want more pills. I already take ten daily. UGH....and I don't want to add to that....so I have taken responsibility for my jelly belly. Ok Ok Ok....I'm a little, well, maybe more than a little overweight. I personally want to lose seventy pounds. The docs say I only need to lose thirty....but...I want to look and feel good and seventy lbs will make that happen for me..(maybe I'd be happy with 50 lbs...hell....who am I kidding...I'd be ecstatic). Since they have to put the new kidney in the front of my stomach, I don't need more packed in there, so it's up to me to make room for it.
I've put myself on a diet. I've never done well with a long list of things I can't eat. You know what I mean....you can't eat donuts, cake, cookies, candy, pie, fudge, drink soda's with sugar (that one really hurts), white bread, pasta, and blah blah blah. I could go on and on with what added pounds to my once skinny little frame, but..I CAN do a diet when I only have to cut out a couple of things...and those things for me are processd sugar and white flour. I know what you're thinking...Oh my gosh..you are just rewording all of the above goodies and maybe I am. But to me it's only two things. I just have to make sure that what I eat doesn't contain either of the two ingredients that I have chosen to give up.
I now eat quite a bit of fruit. I drink the V8 fruit juices and Welch's Grape juice Lite. That usually takes care of my sugar cravings. Fruit also has sugar in it...but remember I only cut out foods with processed sugar. I also check all package foods to make sure that sugar is not listed in the ingredients. It was kind of a pain in the tukas in the beginning...but now it's a challenge. And, now, I only eat whole grain bread and pastas. One of my newest favorite treats is a mini whole wheat bagel, toasted and topped with creme cheese. Then I made a mix of pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and sliced almonds and press that into the creme cheese. I top it with a slice of tomato and then cut it in half. To me, it's delicious and a treat. It meets all of my dietary requirements and is filling.
I don't know if I mentioned it or not...but I'm vegetarian and that makes it hard for me to get protien. The nuts and seeds are rich with protien...so if you need to add protien to your diet, try adding the nuts and seeds. Not only are they healthy, they are delish.
I never could stand diet sodas. That was until I tried zero coke. I love it. People say that even diet drinks are bad for you, but if we didn't eat everything that people say is bad for you, then we'd be stuck with only drinking water. And even then, who knows? I always hear about all those squiggly little things they find in water, so now we're only supposed to drink bottled water and then you find out by reading the label that the bottled water comes from our public drinking water. Round and round we go.
What does heathy mean anyway? To me...it's what promotes me feeling good about myself. Being able to do what I want to do physically (I'll be there soon) and not regretting what you've eaten after you've eaten it. I call it...eaters remorse. I've done it and I'm pretty sure we've all done it. I've been down and I blame that for making me crave something really delicious, like baking a cherry pie at eleven o'clock at night then eating most of it. It really hits home that I probably just ate 1,000 calories when I'm licking the last piece of great tasting goo off my finger. Yum...but oh crap what have I done.
I'm rambling...so back to my diet. I went through a real sugar withdrawal in the first two weeks but after that, it's been okay. I put myself on this self diet six weeks ago. What made me do it...partially a blood test that I had on September 19. My triglycerides were 660 (I had been enjoying my cakes and cookies) and then had another blood test on Oct 3rd...triglycerides were 300. Lowered by more than half . That was only two weeks after I started the self driven diet. Now..they are probably normal. Also my cholesterol was 220 on Sept 19th and on Oct 3rd it was
140. I'd also lost 11 lbs in that same two weeks. I am now on a mission! It was tough getting through that first two weeks, but when I saw the proof on my scale and through the blood tests I am now a believer that I CAN DO THIS!
I want to get healthy. The main reason is because I don't want to go on dialysis before the transplant and if I don't lose the weight that is what will happen. It will not happen to me. I won't let it. If you are going through the same thing....don't let other people tell you what will happen to you if you don't do this or don't do that. Make the choice...take hold of your health and control it. Stop letting it control you. Join me in being who you've alway wanted to be. The true us. Who could ask for more. We are fabulous! Let's go get what we want!
Leave comments about your progress. You're success will only help me with mine. I need your support to get through this and I'm there for you too.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Haven't written for awhile....
Hi Everyone...
I haven't written for awhile...because not much, health wise is going on....
I go to kidney guy in Sept and see when transplant will happen...He says, probably around 1st of year.
I go back to brain guy on 28th of this month and see if all is clear. New MRI will tell me if I still have a brain or not. I'm guessing not!
I am working on a women's novel and I love creating it. Here's an excerpt, tell me what you think.
****
I saw a movement behind her and a little frightened face peeked out from behind the woman’s legs. I could see that the little girl had wrapped herself in her mother’s skirt. I remember doing that when I was scared. “Is this your daughter?”
She turned the top half of her body and leaned down to disentangle the child from her skirt. She coaxed her out from behind and the little girl stood in front of Sara, leaning against her, once again wrapping the skirt material around herself. Sara’s hands were lightly resting on the girls shoulders when she said, “Yes, this is my daughter, Mandy.” For the first time, the young woman smiled and then bent over and picked up the child. She rested the little girl on her hip and Mandy immediately covered her face with her mom’s long hair.
“What is she, about 3 years old?”
“Almost, her birthday is tomorrow.”
This got Mandy’s attention and for just a moment she was in full view, “My birthday is tomorrow,” the child said. She was as shy as her mother and as soon as she told me about her birthday, she buried her face back into Sara’s long blonde hair.
Her voice was akin to the soft cords of a harp when she spoke. It was musical and the child was extraordinary. She had white blonde hair, just like her mother and the darkest green eyes I’d ever seen. Her skin was like fine porcelain and her lips looked like petals from a rose.
I saw that Mandy was looking at me thru her silky shield of hair and I tried to make eye contact, “So tomorrow’s your birthday, how old will you be?”
It took her a minute but she managed to hold up two fingers and at the same time she showed them to me, her thumb popped up.
I laughed despite myself and was mesmerized by her, but then I remembered why I was there. I looked at Sara, “Do you want her around him when he’s like this? Just so you know, I grew up with him and as a child, when he was drunk, I was scared to death. I used to hide in my mom’s skirts when he was around, just like Mandy”
I tried not to be too loud so Mandy wouldn’t be frightened. “You sure you want her to go through the same thing?”
She’s been around him before when he’s had a few too many. He’s really Okay when he settles down.”
I actually think she was trying to defend him, but I could tell that her heart wasn’t in it. So I continued, “Sara, this is none of my business, but you seem nice and your little girls’ darling, so why are you with him? I’m not trying to be factious but I really just don’t get it. He’s been married umpteen times, did you know that? I’ve met at least 6 women he called his wife and there were probably more, but all of the women were pretty decent. They didn’t last long and that I do understand, but what I don’t get, he is such a drunken SOB, what do you see in him?”
Sara bent over and put Mandy back on her feet, then looked directly at me, her shyness seemed to evaporate, “Nobody else wanted me. My parents died three and a half years ago when I was pregnant. They were in the wrong place at the wrong time and were killed during a bank robbery. I don’t have any brothers or sisters and don’t know my aunts, uncles or cousins. Don’t even know if I have any.
I have a daughter I need to feed and provide a home for and I was stupid when I got pregnant. You want me to go on?” She didn’t wait for me to answer but said, “The man I thought I was in love with was married and he wanted me to end the pregnancy, but I wouldn’t, so he wrote us off.” She took a deep breath. “I was a waitress, so my 401K isn’t exactly busting at the seams and no, I didn’t know he’d been married that many times, but I don’t really care. He took us in when no one else would.”
I looked at her and had to admit that I admired the devotion she had for Mandy. “I’m sorry for you but he’s not your answer.”
Without malice, Sara responded in a tiny voice, “Then tell me, what is my answer?
“I don’t have one for you, but let me give you a look at your future. After the divorce, he would come by every couple of months just to beat the hell out of our mother and when he finished he’d give us our presents, then he’d leave. Leave us with calling the ambulance and going to the hospital to patch her up.” I stopped to catch my breath and saw the troubled look on Sara’s face. “He’s hit you hasn’t he?” It wasn’t so much a question as a fact.
Big un-spilled tears came to Sara’s eyes.
She didn’t need to speak, I saw the answer. “Has he hurt Mandy?”
She shook her head, and then said, “No.”
“Well, if he does, kill the bastard.”
A noise erupted behind me and I saw Sara’s expression change and Mandy ran behind her mom. When I turned to see what was happening I saw him roaring like a bull heading straight for us.
Well....that's it.... a little taste....hope you enjoyed it and if you did or didnt ... let me know. I can always use good advice.
Til next time. Cia
My name is Donna and I am pretty darn lucky.
I haven't written for awhile...because not much, health wise is going on....
I go to kidney guy in Sept and see when transplant will happen...He says, probably around 1st of year.
I go back to brain guy on 28th of this month and see if all is clear. New MRI will tell me if I still have a brain or not. I'm guessing not!
I am working on a women's novel and I love creating it. Here's an excerpt, tell me what you think.
****
I saw a movement behind her and a little frightened face peeked out from behind the woman’s legs. I could see that the little girl had wrapped herself in her mother’s skirt. I remember doing that when I was scared. “Is this your daughter?”
She turned the top half of her body and leaned down to disentangle the child from her skirt. She coaxed her out from behind and the little girl stood in front of Sara, leaning against her, once again wrapping the skirt material around herself. Sara’s hands were lightly resting on the girls shoulders when she said, “Yes, this is my daughter, Mandy.” For the first time, the young woman smiled and then bent over and picked up the child. She rested the little girl on her hip and Mandy immediately covered her face with her mom’s long hair.
“What is she, about 3 years old?”
“Almost, her birthday is tomorrow.”
This got Mandy’s attention and for just a moment she was in full view, “My birthday is tomorrow,” the child said. She was as shy as her mother and as soon as she told me about her birthday, she buried her face back into Sara’s long blonde hair.
Her voice was akin to the soft cords of a harp when she spoke. It was musical and the child was extraordinary. She had white blonde hair, just like her mother and the darkest green eyes I’d ever seen. Her skin was like fine porcelain and her lips looked like petals from a rose.
I saw that Mandy was looking at me thru her silky shield of hair and I tried to make eye contact, “So tomorrow’s your birthday, how old will you be?”
It took her a minute but she managed to hold up two fingers and at the same time she showed them to me, her thumb popped up.
I laughed despite myself and was mesmerized by her, but then I remembered why I was there. I looked at Sara, “Do you want her around him when he’s like this? Just so you know, I grew up with him and as a child, when he was drunk, I was scared to death. I used to hide in my mom’s skirts when he was around, just like Mandy”
I tried not to be too loud so Mandy wouldn’t be frightened. “You sure you want her to go through the same thing?”
She’s been around him before when he’s had a few too many. He’s really Okay when he settles down.”
I actually think she was trying to defend him, but I could tell that her heart wasn’t in it. So I continued, “Sara, this is none of my business, but you seem nice and your little girls’ darling, so why are you with him? I’m not trying to be factious but I really just don’t get it. He’s been married umpteen times, did you know that? I’ve met at least 6 women he called his wife and there were probably more, but all of the women were pretty decent. They didn’t last long and that I do understand, but what I don’t get, he is such a drunken SOB, what do you see in him?”
Sara bent over and put Mandy back on her feet, then looked directly at me, her shyness seemed to evaporate, “Nobody else wanted me. My parents died three and a half years ago when I was pregnant. They were in the wrong place at the wrong time and were killed during a bank robbery. I don’t have any brothers or sisters and don’t know my aunts, uncles or cousins. Don’t even know if I have any.
I have a daughter I need to feed and provide a home for and I was stupid when I got pregnant. You want me to go on?” She didn’t wait for me to answer but said, “The man I thought I was in love with was married and he wanted me to end the pregnancy, but I wouldn’t, so he wrote us off.” She took a deep breath. “I was a waitress, so my 401K isn’t exactly busting at the seams and no, I didn’t know he’d been married that many times, but I don’t really care. He took us in when no one else would.”
I looked at her and had to admit that I admired the devotion she had for Mandy. “I’m sorry for you but he’s not your answer.”
Without malice, Sara responded in a tiny voice, “Then tell me, what is my answer?
“I don’t have one for you, but let me give you a look at your future. After the divorce, he would come by every couple of months just to beat the hell out of our mother and when he finished he’d give us our presents, then he’d leave. Leave us with calling the ambulance and going to the hospital to patch her up.” I stopped to catch my breath and saw the troubled look on Sara’s face. “He’s hit you hasn’t he?” It wasn’t so much a question as a fact.
Big un-spilled tears came to Sara’s eyes.
She didn’t need to speak, I saw the answer. “Has he hurt Mandy?”
She shook her head, and then said, “No.”
“Well, if he does, kill the bastard.”
A noise erupted behind me and I saw Sara’s expression change and Mandy ran behind her mom. When I turned to see what was happening I saw him roaring like a bull heading straight for us.
Well....that's it.... a little taste....hope you enjoyed it and if you did or didnt ... let me know. I can always use good advice.
Til next time. Cia
My name is Donna and I am pretty darn lucky.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
HEAR ME ROAR!
Well....I am on the mend from the you know what surgery and all is well in Donna Land. I still don't have my stamina back...but am working on it.
I went to see my kidney guy...(Dr. Toto in Dallas) and he thinks it's time to start the transplant (kidney) procedures. Which means probably 6mos out. I am just guessing, but I have to start the paperwork and then be evaluated. I have to take quite a few tests before all is said and done. I guess they want to make sure I am healthy enough to go thru the procedure.
I have always said...I am very healthy...just have a few bumps in my road...but other than that...
I AM WOMAN! When I do get a new kidney people tell me that I will feel 100% better. I guess I don't know that I don't feel good now. Yes I get tired and everything on me swells, but who doesn't have a bad day now and then.
I was following Rob and April's blog. Rob and I are members of the same writers group. His wife, April was also in kidney failure and Rob donated his kidney to his wife. I remember reading on his blog that he was in quite a bit of pain and I hate the fact that I may have to put one of my loved ones thru that. My sister and my husband have volunteered their kidneys and they are possibilities. My beautiful daughter, Kelli, also volunteered her kidney, but she is too young and I don't want to take anything away from her that she may need in her future.
It didn't end well for Rob and April. She passed away shortly after the transplant, however they don't think it was the procedure or the kidney that was the problem. Rob thinks it may have been her diabetes.
I don't know what I would do if I were to lose my husband. I think Rob is amazing. I didn't have the pleasure of knowing April, but from what I have heard she must of been someone special. Rob, if you are reading this, I know we don't know each other except in passing, but I hope I can have your strength if heartbreak comes to my home.
I know I am kind of rambling, but I just wanted to let everyone know that the transplant is in process now and hopefully we can get this show on the road. Once again....
HEAR ME ROAR.....BRING IT ON.
My name is Donna and as soon as they give me all new parts...I will be brand new!
I went to see my kidney guy...(Dr. Toto in Dallas) and he thinks it's time to start the transplant (kidney) procedures. Which means probably 6mos out. I am just guessing, but I have to start the paperwork and then be evaluated. I have to take quite a few tests before all is said and done. I guess they want to make sure I am healthy enough to go thru the procedure.
I have always said...I am very healthy...just have a few bumps in my road...but other than that...
I AM WOMAN! When I do get a new kidney people tell me that I will feel 100% better. I guess I don't know that I don't feel good now. Yes I get tired and everything on me swells, but who doesn't have a bad day now and then.
I was following Rob and April's blog. Rob and I are members of the same writers group. His wife, April was also in kidney failure and Rob donated his kidney to his wife. I remember reading on his blog that he was in quite a bit of pain and I hate the fact that I may have to put one of my loved ones thru that. My sister and my husband have volunteered their kidneys and they are possibilities. My beautiful daughter, Kelli, also volunteered her kidney, but she is too young and I don't want to take anything away from her that she may need in her future.
It didn't end well for Rob and April. She passed away shortly after the transplant, however they don't think it was the procedure or the kidney that was the problem. Rob thinks it may have been her diabetes.
I don't know what I would do if I were to lose my husband. I think Rob is amazing. I didn't have the pleasure of knowing April, but from what I have heard she must of been someone special. Rob, if you are reading this, I know we don't know each other except in passing, but I hope I can have your strength if heartbreak comes to my home.
I know I am kind of rambling, but I just wanted to let everyone know that the transplant is in process now and hopefully we can get this show on the road. Once again....
HEAR ME ROAR.....BRING IT ON.
My name is Donna and as soon as they give me all new parts...I will be brand new!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
I have a really cool daughter
I was dissapointed that I didn't get to have breakfast with my daughter and her husband this morning. I had a brain tumor and it has successfully been removed. The only drawback is that it has been hard to heal and I am extremely ready for this to be over with.
My daughter, Kelli, is probably the best daughter in the world. She is always there when I need her and she never, never, never has a negative thing to say about anyone. We had plans this morning to have breakfast at a local IHOP, but I had this stupid headache when I woke up and had to cancel.
My name is Mom and Kelli if you are reading this...you are the best and I love you very much.
My daughter, Kelli, is probably the best daughter in the world. She is always there when I need her and she never, never, never has a negative thing to say about anyone. We had plans this morning to have breakfast at a local IHOP, but I had this stupid headache when I woke up and had to cancel.
My name is Mom and Kelli if you are reading this...you are the best and I love you very much.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Hey Ken.......Thanks
This is a post for a friend of ours whose name is Ken. You never really know who your friends are until it comes down to just giving of yourself and that is exactly what Ken did the day of my surgery. He is actually a friend of my husbands, but I have always enjoyed the times our families got together and socialized. We have taken a few trips together and gone to a few parties.
The day of my surgery, Ken showed up at the hospital and kept Ed's mind on other things so he would'nt just sit there and worry about what was happening to me. I had loads of family members there also, but they were there for me (I hope) and they helped keep each other occupied as well. But Ken, he didn't have to interupt his day and come to the hospital. He could have sent well wishes, but instead, he took the time to think of Ed and changed his schedule to take care of a friend.
Thank you Ken, you may have thought it was a nice thing to do, but to me, you have now been moved to a very special catagory in my life. You are a person who cares about your friends and you are there to back that claim up. I know Ed could of prevailed without you there. As I said we had loved ones and other friends who sweated it out with us, but they were there for me. Thank you for thinking of Ed. I will never forget your kindness.
My name is Donna and everyday that the old ticker ticks, I realize how lucky I am to be surrounded by the best people in the world. Friends, family and all the good wishes I know were out there for me from people I do not know during this whole tumor thing.
The day of my surgery, Ken showed up at the hospital and kept Ed's mind on other things so he would'nt just sit there and worry about what was happening to me. I had loads of family members there also, but they were there for me (I hope) and they helped keep each other occupied as well. But Ken, he didn't have to interupt his day and come to the hospital. He could have sent well wishes, but instead, he took the time to think of Ed and changed his schedule to take care of a friend.
Thank you Ken, you may have thought it was a nice thing to do, but to me, you have now been moved to a very special catagory in my life. You are a person who cares about your friends and you are there to back that claim up. I know Ed could of prevailed without you there. As I said we had loved ones and other friends who sweated it out with us, but they were there for me. Thank you for thinking of Ed. I will never forget your kindness.
My name is Donna and everyday that the old ticker ticks, I realize how lucky I am to be surrounded by the best people in the world. Friends, family and all the good wishes I know were out there for me from people I do not know during this whole tumor thing.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
I am Loving Life.
Sounds strange saying that after begging for an instant death and release from pain forever, however, life can never be taken too lightly. I was treated for a "Stupid Brain Tumor" at UT Southwestern University Hospital - Zale Lipshey.
Not only were the doctors, nurses, technitions, valets who parked my familie's cars, the folks who checked my bodily functions, the guy who made sure my a/c was working and keeping me comfortable, the women and men who mopped my floor, and their peers who changed my sheets, including everyone who always delivered my food with a smile on their face. (The food was really good also) to the employees who just dropped by to make sure I was OK, excellent, they made the experience a memorable one and made me remember how people are supposed to treat each other.
Their kindness, concern and caring touched my heart every time they entered my room and I will be thankful on a daily basis as to how each and every one of these caring individuals contributed to saving my life.
I know I am being all sappy and I'm having a Touched by an Angel moment , but I am thankful to be alive and I just wanted everyone involved in that process to know that I realize it is because of them that I am sucking it in and exhaling it out.
So to sum up this flowering mess, I want to thank my family, friends and professional team for their decision....
Thank you for deciding I was worth the effort.
My name is Donna and I will live another day because of you.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Come on In...I'm giving myself a "Pity Party" and your invited.
Today is the first day of the rest of my life!......How Hoakie!.......but I do have to believe it is true.
It's time for me to get real.......The pain level I went thru today was probably the worst pain I have ever experienced. Between me gulping tears, holding my head, rocking back and forth and singing the song of the dead, how do I sucessfully push thru this pain only to find its twin on the other side?
I have not been honest with myself , much less with you about the level of pain I have been going thru with this $#@^& Tumor. I keep thinking...tomorrow will be better so I fib and say to myself that today must not of been that bad in the land of brain tumors and horrendous illnesses. Well let me tell you......that is sooooo nooooooot trueeeeeee. Facing the fact that I am not invincible, that I have a weakness and that it is not deniable, that is what hurts most.
I try to lead my life with honor and humor. By not sharing the facts of pain, I am deluting all of the past heroic folks that have gone thru life threatening experiences and come out the other side better people. I want to be like them. I want to be strong. I want to be a force. Someday, maybe I will be. I can only continue to try.
I am so lucky to have people in my life that give me strength, hope, laughter and love. These people are the folks who don't leave. They stay, no matter what. They are my friends and family. This post is differenat from my other ones. I am giving myself a little "Hospital Pity Party" and it is a big thank you from Me to You.
Ed, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my husband, my life partner and my best friend. Kelli, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my daughter, my life partner and my best friend. Katy, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my sister, my life partner and my best friend. Matt, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my cousin, my life partner and my best friend. Marlowe, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my niece, my life partner and my best friend.
Everyone else who makes my life complete, you know who you are. You are my son-in-law, my nephews, nieces, mother-in-law, sister-in-laws, my writer's club friends and my life long friends. You all make it click for me. Whether you are in my life for a moment or forever, thanks for walking beside me for however long we have together.
It's time for me to get real.......The pain level I went thru today was probably the worst pain I have ever experienced. Between me gulping tears, holding my head, rocking back and forth and singing the song of the dead, how do I sucessfully push thru this pain only to find its twin on the other side?
I have not been honest with myself , much less with you about the level of pain I have been going thru with this $#@^& Tumor. I keep thinking...tomorrow will be better so I fib and say to myself that today must not of been that bad in the land of brain tumors and horrendous illnesses. Well let me tell you......that is sooooo nooooooot trueeeeeee. Facing the fact that I am not invincible, that I have a weakness and that it is not deniable, that is what hurts most.
I try to lead my life with honor and humor. By not sharing the facts of pain, I am deluting all of the past heroic folks that have gone thru life threatening experiences and come out the other side better people. I want to be like them. I want to be strong. I want to be a force. Someday, maybe I will be. I can only continue to try.
I am so lucky to have people in my life that give me strength, hope, laughter and love. These people are the folks who don't leave. They stay, no matter what. They are my friends and family. This post is differenat from my other ones. I am giving myself a little "Hospital Pity Party" and it is a big thank you from Me to You.
Ed, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my husband, my life partner and my best friend. Kelli, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my daughter, my life partner and my best friend. Katy, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my sister, my life partner and my best friend. Matt, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my cousin, my life partner and my best friend. Marlowe, I love you more than you will ever know. You are my niece, my life partner and my best friend.
Everyone else who makes my life complete, you know who you are. You are my son-in-law, my nephews, nieces, mother-in-law, sister-in-laws, my writer's club friends and my life long friends. You all make it click for me. Whether you are in my life for a moment or forever, thanks for walking beside me for however long we have together.
I just learned that someone I greatly admire is suffering. His name is Rod and he donated his kidney to his loving wife April, last Wednesday. From what I understand, everything was going well and they were expected to be released from the hospital today. She passed away last night. I can only imagine how devasted he is. My heart is with you and it breaks for you every time I think about the pain you will have to push thru.
As I sit in this hospital bed, wiping my eyes for my self very own pity party, I will say this one last time, because I want to make sure you understand my feelings.
Thanks for Saving My Life on a Daily Basis and
Thank You for Making My Life What It Is.
And What It Is,
Is Great!
Saturday, February 27, 2010
They Love Me Just a Little Too Much Here
So they are keeping me for at least another day. My silly brain is still swelling so they are going to put me back on steroids so the swelling will halt and decease. My headaches are pretty bad and Dr. Mickey does'nt want me leaving while I am in still so much pain because I live so far away. Thanks for that. I do want to go home. I want to be with my husband and see my friends. I also want to get wags and kisses from the 10 furry pups I have. This is a pic of Tilla, I don't know if I have ever shared that information with you before, but here are the rest of their names,
Boob (aka boobalicious or boobasaurous depending on his actions at the moment), Jelly Bean, Tilla (aka Atilla the Hun) Tulip, Tucker, Max, Moilly, Bug (aka Love Bug) Missy, and Mamma. I will try to post one of their pictures....They keep me very happy. I love wagging tails and unconditional love.
Anyway back to the tumor. It hurts like hell....I just wish the hurting would stop and I could get back to normal. I want to start writing on my novel again. I want to help edit my friends novels. I want to get back to my jewelry business and everythting else I do. However as long as my brain insists on being larger than the cranial capacity, that is an impossibility.
I am not happy about this new development and I am having strict talkings to my brain everyday. We are at odds at the moment.
Just thought I would keep you updated...that's about it for now. Talk to you again tomorrow if I get to go home.
My name is Donna and I feel like crap today
Boob (aka boobalicious or boobasaurous depending on his actions at the moment), Jelly Bean, Tilla (aka Atilla the Hun) Tulip, Tucker, Max, Moilly, Bug (aka Love Bug) Missy, and Mamma. I will try to post one of their pictures....They keep me very happy. I love wagging tails and unconditional love.
Anyway back to the tumor. It hurts like hell....I just wish the hurting would stop and I could get back to normal. I want to start writing on my novel again. I want to help edit my friends novels. I want to get back to my jewelry business and everythting else I do. However as long as my brain insists on being larger than the cranial capacity, that is an impossibility.
I am not happy about this new development and I am having strict talkings to my brain everyday. We are at odds at the moment.
Just thought I would keep you updated...that's about it for now. Talk to you again tomorrow if I get to go home.
My name is Donna and I feel like crap today
Friday, February 26, 2010
They call me Zipper Head!
.jpg)
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
This is the scar and it looks like you can just unzip me.
Hopefully I get to go home tomorrow, Saturday and get back to normal life. I am meeting with the kidney transplant team on April 16th. Anyone have and extra kidney floating around?
Actually I have quite a few people who have stepped up to the plate already. My husband, sister, daughter, my contractor and a friend. Someone out of all of them...should work.
But now my concern is that you, whoever you are, and that if you are reading this and hurting, how can I help you through whatever it is you are going thru? If you are in a life threatening situation there is nothing more scary than thoughts of leaving behind loved ones. I faced this with the idea that nothing would go wrong. Yes, we (the family) talked about all of the death stuff, but once we discussed it and got all of the questions out on the table and found out all of the answers, I got all of my affairs in order and then we were able to move on.
I thoroughty researched the surgeon and the hospital and his team. I think I got the best doctor available. His name is Dr. Bruce Edward Mickey out of Tx SW University Hospital Complex in
Dallas, Texas. It is a teaching hospital and from what EVERYONE I spoke to reported, .....he is the best and he surrounds himself with the best.
Dallas, Texas. It is a teaching hospital and from what EVERYONE I spoke to reported, .....he is the best and he surrounds himself with the best.
Thank you, Dr. Mickey.
Well that's all I have to say today...I thought you might want to see the scar...Just think 45 hours ago my brain lay exposed on an operating table with doctors poking and prodding it. And look at me now. I am writing to you. Just how amazing is that?
My name is Donna and I am now an official zipper head and proud of it. I came through it with flying colors!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Hi Everyone.
Here it is the day after my "Stupid Brain Tumor Surgery" and I am already on my computer. Imagine that. I have the video of the complete surgery and it is really, rather amazing. You can see my brain and just like I had thought, it is quite an impressive brain. I was agog with the video. bit it grossed Ed out. I hope I can download it on this site in case you are interested in seeing brain surgery, but let me warn you, it is quite graphic.
Last night was a reallllllly bad night. I was throwing up quite a bit and it felt like my head was being torn from my neck. Once the upchucking passed, it has'nt been so bad. They are keeping me pretty drugged, which is a very good thing.....and I should be home by the weekend.
Anyway, I am at Zales Lipshey University Hospital (part of UT Southwest Complex), 5151 Harry Hines Blvd in Dallas, Room 520. I know some of you wanted to come by and say hey....so there is the address.
The cut on my head is very impressive. (about 10 inches long) It is not bandaged so you see it in all it's glory. Again...it grosses Ed out. By Friday I should have 2 black eyes and my head should be at maximum swelling. I am assuming I will be quite attractive. So far, everyone I have come into contact with here at the hospital is wonderful. They are very kind and good care givers.
My sister-in-law, Patty Lasko, stayed all night with me in ICU last night and I can only imagine, how horrible it was for her. During the upchucking sessions, I was crying because of the pain to my head and I actually think she was crying in sympathy. She was such a life saver, I don't think I could of made it thru last night without her. Thanks Patty.
I am already walking around and I am really amazed at this whole process. I am fine and I have no side effects that I know of. That is other than I tilt to the left when I walk, I don't really know who I am and I am blind as a bat.....psych....I am perfect...but you already knew that!
That is about all I have to report. I am going to try to download the video....and I will blog again within the next couple of days.
My name is Donna and I no longer have a "Stupid Brain Tumor"
Here it is the day after my "Stupid Brain Tumor Surgery" and I am already on my computer. Imagine that. I have the video of the complete surgery and it is really, rather amazing. You can see my brain and just like I had thought, it is quite an impressive brain. I was agog with the video. bit it grossed Ed out. I hope I can download it on this site in case you are interested in seeing brain surgery, but let me warn you, it is quite graphic.
Last night was a reallllllly bad night. I was throwing up quite a bit and it felt like my head was being torn from my neck. Once the upchucking passed, it has'nt been so bad. They are keeping me pretty drugged, which is a very good thing.....and I should be home by the weekend.
Anyway, I am at Zales Lipshey University Hospital (part of UT Southwest Complex), 5151 Harry Hines Blvd in Dallas, Room 520. I know some of you wanted to come by and say hey....so there is the address.
The cut on my head is very impressive. (about 10 inches long) It is not bandaged so you see it in all it's glory. Again...it grosses Ed out. By Friday I should have 2 black eyes and my head should be at maximum swelling. I am assuming I will be quite attractive. So far, everyone I have come into contact with here at the hospital is wonderful. They are very kind and good care givers.
My sister-in-law, Patty Lasko, stayed all night with me in ICU last night and I can only imagine, how horrible it was for her. During the upchucking sessions, I was crying because of the pain to my head and I actually think she was crying in sympathy. She was such a life saver, I don't think I could of made it thru last night without her. Thanks Patty.
I am already walking around and I am really amazed at this whole process. I am fine and I have no side effects that I know of. That is other than I tilt to the left when I walk, I don't really know who I am and I am blind as a bat.....psych....I am perfect...but you already knew that!
That is about all I have to report. I am going to try to download the video....and I will blog again within the next couple of days.
My name is Donna and I no longer have a "Stupid Brain Tumor"
Monday, February 22, 2010
It's the night before surgery and I'm at my sisters house. She lives about 10 miles from the hospital and since it is supposed to snow, I thought it woud be safer to be close just in case the roads are bad. I'll be at Zales Lipskey (sp) on Harry Hines. I'm a bit nervous about all the hoo-ha but I'm also ready for the games to begin. The knife makes it's first cut at noon and the entire thing shoud take between 4-6 hours. I'll be in ICU for the first 23 hours and if all goes well, then I'll be in my room after that for about the next 4-5 days.
I just wanted to take a minute and say thanks for all of the encouragement and thoughts coming my way....
My name is Donna and tomorrow I'm off to see the Wizard.
I just wanted to take a minute and say thanks for all of the encouragement and thoughts coming my way....
My name is Donna and tomorrow I'm off to see the Wizard.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Do you want to see my brain?
I had an appointment yesterday, Feb 17th, with Dr. Mickey (nuerosurgeon) and after extensive testing, we have decided it would be safer and I would have a better long term prognosis if he went in thru the derma (skull) instead of the nose. I'm all atwitter about the prospect.
Am I nervous? Yes, I guess I am. Am I afraid? No, I don't think so. I am nervous about how much it will hurt afterwards,(yes I know I am a wuss...but) scared, no. I believe in destiny and I just have too much on my plate for it to be my time.
The cool thing about all of this is they will take pics during the surgery and I will post them here. So I will have proof that I actually do have a brain and I bet it's big and smart looking. Now that's not something everyone can say....Hey....you want to see a picture of my brain :)
There's really not much else to say about it. Tuesday is the date it all comes together and Wednesday is the date that will tell me if all is well. I will get back to you as soon as I can to update info. I am taking my computer to the hospital with me so hopefully I can do my show and tell on Wednesday. Wish me luck, and I wish you safety and good health.
My name is Donna and Wednesday really will be the first day of the rest of my life.
Am I nervous? Yes, I guess I am. Am I afraid? No, I don't think so. I am nervous about how much it will hurt afterwards,(yes I know I am a wuss...but) scared, no. I believe in destiny and I just have too much on my plate for it to be my time.
The cool thing about all of this is they will take pics during the surgery and I will post them here. So I will have proof that I actually do have a brain and I bet it's big and smart looking. Now that's not something everyone can say....Hey....you want to see a picture of my brain :)
There's really not much else to say about it. Tuesday is the date it all comes together and Wednesday is the date that will tell me if all is well. I will get back to you as soon as I can to update info. I am taking my computer to the hospital with me so hopefully I can do my show and tell on Wednesday. Wish me luck, and I wish you safety and good health.
My name is Donna and Wednesday really will be the first day of the rest of my life.
Monday, February 15, 2010
The Dr. shakes his head slowly and says
It’s been a while since I put to words my medical mishaps, so here goes, I’m at it again. Today I went to see Dr. Toto, (nephrology) to check on my kidneys before the surgery. I am now at about 21% function and am in stage 4 kidney failure. However, that’s really not all that bad. I have been in stage 3.9999999 for quite some time, so I plan on being in stage 4 (the beginning) for a while. Sounds like a movie of the week.
“Dr. We have a situation here. This strikingly beautiful woman, (nurse points to me) has a brain tumor and is in stage 4 kidney failure. She also suffers from Cushings Disease and has a liberal sister!”
The Dr. shakes his head slowly and says, “Yes, nurse, I know she is strinkingly beautiful.”
My drama goes something like that!!!
Anyway, back to the kidney thing, I have a couple of offers. My sister, who is probably the closest match, my husband, my daughter and believe it or not, one of the contractors working on our house. He has offered, but I don’t think he knows what he would be getting himself into. Anyway, I am sure my sis is a perfect match, so I will become one with her. God help me, she is a screaming liberal, so I’m crossing my fingers for the conservative kidney.
Now to the good news. There is absolutely nothing about my kidneys that will hamper the brain surgery. I just have to make sure they know about the kidney situation before I go under and then all will be perfect.
So...I am just hanging around waiting to get the ball rolling and get this mess over with so I can go back to living. I am pretty darn sick of being so tired and puekey all the time.
Wish me luck, if you are reading this, then you are in my thoughts..Wishing you nothing but good luck and good health.
My name is Donna....and I am in pretty good shape....considering!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Thank You
I don't really have anything new. I just wanted to say thank you for following and if you don't follow but have left a comment,Thanks. I really enjoy reading your comments and advice. It gives me a lot to think about.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Be Careful What You Wish For
I said I wouldn’t post anything until next week unless something came up...well something came up. I went last week to get some blood work for Dr. Castro (Fort Worth – Endocrinologist) and everything was normal except…..my body is producing too much cortisol which is an indication of Cushings. I looked it up and I decided that I do not want that.
Unfortunately I do have some of the symptoms, but I am sure if I get creative enough I can explain those away. However, in the mean time he is sending me paperwork for additional testing that I start on Monday. He wants to measure my cortisol and the tests I’ll be doing will verify cushings or verify that he is just being overly cautious. I vote for the latter. I thought a brain tumor was bad, but now I’m going to have a really fat upper body and a hump.
Of course, it is quite rare….what else would I have…the rarer it is, the more of it I'll have. So bring it on. I am ready to face whatever test this may be to my sanity. So far so good. If I am going to have an additional malady, just give me something I can take a pill for and it will go away. Keep the rare stuff …just give me….hmmmmm……..let me think….OK, I know..just give me a rash and keep the cushings.
I guess that's all the news, oh no ....&@%$&@%$#.....
Damn….now my arm itches!
My name is Donna and I have a stupid Brain Tumor, Cushings, and a rash.
Be careful what you wish for.
Unfortunately I do have some of the symptoms, but I am sure if I get creative enough I can explain those away. However, in the mean time he is sending me paperwork for additional testing that I start on Monday. He wants to measure my cortisol and the tests I’ll be doing will verify cushings or verify that he is just being overly cautious. I vote for the latter. I thought a brain tumor was bad, but now I’m going to have a really fat upper body and a hump.
Of course, it is quite rare….what else would I have…the rarer it is, the more of it I'll have. So bring it on. I am ready to face whatever test this may be to my sanity. So far so good. If I am going to have an additional malady, just give me something I can take a pill for and it will go away. Keep the rare stuff …just give me….hmmmmm……..let me think….OK, I know..just give me a rash and keep the cushings.
I guess that's all the news, oh no ....&@%$&@%$#.....
Damn….now my arm itches!
My name is Donna and I have a stupid Brain Tumor, Cushings, and a rash.
Be careful what you wish for.
Monday, February 1, 2010
The good news about my Stupid Brain Tumor is....
Ed (my husband) and I went to see Dr. Mickey (Dallas) today and we both liked him and his manner. He was very thorough with looking at the scans and going over them with us. He said that with what he sees on the scans he would go up through the nose and just poke a hole in the tumor and drain the fluid. What he really wants is to see a(n) MRI scan with IV dye. He cannot see the stem of the pituitary gland and would like to see that before he goes in. Unfortunately I am in kidney failure and the dye will (maybe) damage what is left of my kidneys.
He is going to get with my kidney guy, Dr. Toto of Dallas and see what he thinks. I trust Dr. Toto so I am sure he will advise what he thinks is best for my situation. My thought on this is go with the dye. This Dr. will be poking around in my brain and not have all of the information he could have. If this dye harms my kidneys, then so be it and I will deal with that if or when it happens. But for now, I have this tumor pressing on my optic nerve and it has taken away half my vision. I don’t see that improving until I address this mess. All of the Dr’s. said that my vision may get a little better and it may not. I am voting for it getting a whole lot better and in this situation, my vote is really the only one that matters.
All of the decisions will be made on Feb 12th. I'm going to have another MRI and CAT scan on that day, then go to Dr. Mickey at 1130 that same day. He will have all of the info he needs to make his recommendation...and I will make my decision as to what will happen to my “Stupid Brain Tumor”
The good news about "My Stupid Brain Tumor is
....hmmmm...........
I'm going to have to get back to you about that
But for now, I will post again on the 12th or 13th of Feb, unless something happens between now and then. It won’t...I lead a charmed life!
Wish me luck in making the best decisions. My thoughts are with you and I’m sending you good vibes.
He is going to get with my kidney guy, Dr. Toto of Dallas and see what he thinks. I trust Dr. Toto so I am sure he will advise what he thinks is best for my situation. My thought on this is go with the dye. This Dr. will be poking around in my brain and not have all of the information he could have. If this dye harms my kidneys, then so be it and I will deal with that if or when it happens. But for now, I have this tumor pressing on my optic nerve and it has taken away half my vision. I don’t see that improving until I address this mess. All of the Dr’s. said that my vision may get a little better and it may not. I am voting for it getting a whole lot better and in this situation, my vote is really the only one that matters.
All of the decisions will be made on Feb 12th. I'm going to have another MRI and CAT scan on that day, then go to Dr. Mickey at 1130 that same day. He will have all of the info he needs to make his recommendation...and I will make my decision as to what will happen to my “Stupid Brain Tumor”
The good news about "My Stupid Brain Tumor is
....hmmmm...........
I'm going to have to get back to you about that
But for now, I will post again on the 12th or 13th of Feb, unless something happens between now and then. It won’t...I lead a charmed life!
Wish me luck in making the best decisions. My thoughts are with you and I’m sending you good vibes.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Perplexed and Confused
I went to Dr. LeBlanc (Fort Worth) yesterday (Wednesday) and his take on this malady did not seem as dire as the other neurologists I spoke to. He says that he would go up through the nose or the roof of the mouth to reach my new friend. So now I am perplexed and confused.
I am unsure what to do, so I have decided to get a 2nd opinion. After researching doctors, I decided to call Dr. Mickey (Dallas) for an appointment. I will find out tomorrow when that appointment will be.
This is a flip of the coin, but my decision will be based on what Dr. Mickey says. I understand he is outstanding in his field so if he says it can be reached through the mouth or nose, then I will have Dr. LeBlanc do the surgery. If he concurs with the other 2 doctors, that they have to go through the scalp, then I will probably go with him. What would you do in this situation?
Dr. LeBlanc has become sort of a friend. He is my doctor for a different reason, but I trust him. I was just a little befuddled about his assessment.
In a previous blog entry, Susie asked how this affects some of my other health issues. Well I am not sure. I will know more later. One of the neurologists said that all of my health probs may be linked together. Wouldn’t it be great that when the Mean Humpty Dumpty is plucked off his wall, everything else gets better. Ah...to dream.
Well, that is really about all the news I have at this point. I have an appointment tomorrow with Dr. Castro (endocrinologist) and I will be there doing some fairly extensive testing. From what I understand....some of the tests have a big ouch factor.
Wish me luck and I will send it right back to you..
I am unsure what to do, so I have decided to get a 2nd opinion. After researching doctors, I decided to call Dr. Mickey (Dallas) for an appointment. I will find out tomorrow when that appointment will be.
This is a flip of the coin, but my decision will be based on what Dr. Mickey says. I understand he is outstanding in his field so if he says it can be reached through the mouth or nose, then I will have Dr. LeBlanc do the surgery. If he concurs with the other 2 doctors, that they have to go through the scalp, then I will probably go with him. What would you do in this situation?
Dr. LeBlanc has become sort of a friend. He is my doctor for a different reason, but I trust him. I was just a little befuddled about his assessment.
In a previous blog entry, Susie asked how this affects some of my other health issues. Well I am not sure. I will know more later. One of the neurologists said that all of my health probs may be linked together. Wouldn’t it be great that when the Mean Humpty Dumpty is plucked off his wall, everything else gets better. Ah...to dream.
Well, that is really about all the news I have at this point. I have an appointment tomorrow with Dr. Castro (endocrinologist) and I will be there doing some fairly extensive testing. From what I understand....some of the tests have a big ouch factor.
Wish me luck and I will send it right back to you..
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
A Mean Humpty Dumpty
Well here I am again so let's get started. This morning I woke up with a horrific headache and was nauseated. After drinking a glass of milk and taking a couple of aspirins, life is pretty much back to normal.
When the aspirin took effect, I started my daily google search about this tumor. Some of the articles I find are scary, but quite a few of them have a positive spin. One of the things I found out is that I have to shave my head. Evidentially having hair promotes infection during surgery and immediately after. So I need to know what you think. Should I shave my entire head and have fun with wigs? Or should I go with a long Mohawk since I do have some Cherokee blood. I could reconnect with my heritage and maybe buy some moccasins.
My husband and I had the serious talk. Once we faced what the possibilities are, we have decided that on a daily basis we will face this with a sense of humor. So...what that means is that I am taking full advantage. For example, when I want something and I am too lazy to get it myself....I ask my husband to get it for me. It goes something like this..."Honey, will you please get me a cup of tea. I'd get it myself but you know I have this tumor and all...(I drag out the "all"...for a few beats) or if I do something that is not quite pleasing to him and I know he's upset...I just point to my head and frown....gets him every time.
He knows that I'm yanking his chain, but he humors me. Am I scared, no I really don’t think I am. I’m aware of what can happen during surgery. Loss of vision, memory loss (I have already made name tags for everyone and my husband put sticky notes on all of the dogs the other day. haha), confusion, loss of sensations (I’m hoping for taste bud loss...I could stand to lose a few lbs.) and even death. Now that would be a bummer.
I envision this big egg like object (a mean Humpty Dumpty) just sitting pretty on top of my pituitary gland. I try to grab and crack it but it dodges and bobs and weaves, left and right...just out of my reach. I keep trying, knowing I will eventually grab it and squeeze it’s little yellow guts out.
What the heck...a little mind control can't hurt and who knows...miracles are possible. But just in case a miracle is not in my future, I am a realist...so surgery is probably about 2 weeks away. First, I have to undergo some additional tests and get all my ducks in a row. After that...the fun begins.
So, what I hope for you is that if you are going through the same thing or any kind of life threatening medical problem, you are able to face it, overcome it and come out the other side of whatever it is, healthier and happier. For me, humor will keep me positive.
My name is Donna and I have a "Stupid Brain Tumor"
When the aspirin took effect, I started my daily google search about this tumor. Some of the articles I find are scary, but quite a few of them have a positive spin. One of the things I found out is that I have to shave my head. Evidentially having hair promotes infection during surgery and immediately after. So I need to know what you think. Should I shave my entire head and have fun with wigs? Or should I go with a long Mohawk since I do have some Cherokee blood. I could reconnect with my heritage and maybe buy some moccasins.
My husband and I had the serious talk. Once we faced what the possibilities are, we have decided that on a daily basis we will face this with a sense of humor. So...what that means is that I am taking full advantage. For example, when I want something and I am too lazy to get it myself....I ask my husband to get it for me. It goes something like this..."Honey, will you please get me a cup of tea. I'd get it myself but you know I have this tumor and all...(I drag out the "all"...for a few beats) or if I do something that is not quite pleasing to him and I know he's upset...I just point to my head and frown....gets him every time.
He knows that I'm yanking his chain, but he humors me. Am I scared, no I really don’t think I am. I’m aware of what can happen during surgery. Loss of vision, memory loss (I have already made name tags for everyone and my husband put sticky notes on all of the dogs the other day. haha), confusion, loss of sensations (I’m hoping for taste bud loss...I could stand to lose a few lbs.) and even death. Now that would be a bummer.
I envision this big egg like object (a mean Humpty Dumpty) just sitting pretty on top of my pituitary gland. I try to grab and crack it but it dodges and bobs and weaves, left and right...just out of my reach. I keep trying, knowing I will eventually grab it and squeeze it’s little yellow guts out.
What the heck...a little mind control can't hurt and who knows...miracles are possible. But just in case a miracle is not in my future, I am a realist...so surgery is probably about 2 weeks away. First, I have to undergo some additional tests and get all my ducks in a row. After that...the fun begins.
So, what I hope for you is that if you are going through the same thing or any kind of life threatening medical problem, you are able to face it, overcome it and come out the other side of whatever it is, healthier and happier. For me, humor will keep me positive.
My name is Donna and I have a "Stupid Brain Tumor"
Monday, January 25, 2010
My Stupid Brain Tumor
Today is Monday, January 25th, 2010 and last Thursday I found out I have a brain tumor. Formally it is called a Craniodharyngioma Tumor. But in laymen’s terms it is call, “A Stupid Tumor.”
Evidentially this is a rare type of tumor, because of its location. It is comfortably resting on the top of my pituitary gland, so they will have to remove part of my skull to get to it. YIKES!
How I found out I had a tumor.
About four years ago, I had a lens transplant.
Dr. Carter out of Dallas did the surgery and recently I’ve been having vision trouble, like difficulty driving at night and my peripheral vision was messing up. I was having slight headaches and was constantly nauseated and have started to cough some.
Now, I attributed the vision trouble to the lens transplant. And I figured that the headaches and nausea were from the vision problems. The coughing, I pretty much ignored.
So...I made an appointment with Dr. Carter, the eye guy and expected him to take care of the problem, and then go to lunch with my sister. Well, it didn’t quite work out that way. I was there for 6 hours, going from one test to another. After about the first 3 hours, I knew something might be amiss.
When the testing was all done, Dr. Lee (she is on Dr. Carter’s staff) came into the room and I could tell that the news was probably not good. She told me that the tests pointed to me having a brain tumor and that Dr. Carter would be in shortly to talk to me.
I’m sitting there alone, absorbing and analyzing the news that my whole life just changed when Dr. Carter came in. He emphasized how dire this was and that I didn’t have time to screw around, so he set me up with Dr. Gerhardt, a neurologist.(Dallas) Dr. Marlin arranged for me to have a MRI and when he saw the results, told me that his practice did not operate on that type of tumor so referred me to Dr. Gerhardt,(Dallas) a Neurosurgeon.
Dr. Marlin studied the films and told me this was a rare tumor and he didn’t do this type of surgery either, so he gave me the name of someone who does. I have an appointment this coming Wednesday, with Dr. Raymond LeBlanc (Fort Worth, Tx), a doctor I have seen in the past. I trust him and he and I will find the right doctor to do this surgery.
I really didn’t have time to think about the situation until I was back home. It’s scary to know that in less than a month I could be dead. So how do I prepare for that? My husband of 31 years is pretty freaked out and tomorrow I’m having lunch with my daughter, her husband and my mother in law, because I need to tell them what’s going on.
I am one of those people who cannot stand to have people pity me. I sent an email to my friends and told them that NO PITY is allowed. Me, personally...I don’t feel sick and honestly I don’t want to be reminded of my malady. I need good karma around me. This blog that I am writing will chronicle my journey from good to perfect. So welcome to my life changing event. I hope you wish me well and I hope my trip will help you with your venture through life.
Evidentially this is a rare type of tumor, because of its location. It is comfortably resting on the top of my pituitary gland, so they will have to remove part of my skull to get to it. YIKES!
How I found out I had a tumor.
About four years ago, I had a lens transplant.
Dr. Carter out of Dallas did the surgery and recently I’ve been having vision trouble, like difficulty driving at night and my peripheral vision was messing up. I was having slight headaches and was constantly nauseated and have started to cough some.
Now, I attributed the vision trouble to the lens transplant. And I figured that the headaches and nausea were from the vision problems. The coughing, I pretty much ignored.
So...I made an appointment with Dr. Carter, the eye guy and expected him to take care of the problem, and then go to lunch with my sister. Well, it didn’t quite work out that way. I was there for 6 hours, going from one test to another. After about the first 3 hours, I knew something might be amiss.
When the testing was all done, Dr. Lee (she is on Dr. Carter’s staff) came into the room and I could tell that the news was probably not good. She told me that the tests pointed to me having a brain tumor and that Dr. Carter would be in shortly to talk to me.
I’m sitting there alone, absorbing and analyzing the news that my whole life just changed when Dr. Carter came in. He emphasized how dire this was and that I didn’t have time to screw around, so he set me up with Dr. Gerhardt, a neurologist.(Dallas) Dr. Marlin arranged for me to have a MRI and when he saw the results, told me that his practice did not operate on that type of tumor so referred me to Dr. Gerhardt,(Dallas) a Neurosurgeon.
Dr. Marlin studied the films and told me this was a rare tumor and he didn’t do this type of surgery either, so he gave me the name of someone who does. I have an appointment this coming Wednesday, with Dr. Raymond LeBlanc (Fort Worth, Tx), a doctor I have seen in the past. I trust him and he and I will find the right doctor to do this surgery.
I really didn’t have time to think about the situation until I was back home. It’s scary to know that in less than a month I could be dead. So how do I prepare for that? My husband of 31 years is pretty freaked out and tomorrow I’m having lunch with my daughter, her husband and my mother in law, because I need to tell them what’s going on.
I am one of those people who cannot stand to have people pity me. I sent an email to my friends and told them that NO PITY is allowed. Me, personally...I don’t feel sick and honestly I don’t want to be reminded of my malady. I need good karma around me. This blog that I am writing will chronicle my journey from good to perfect. So welcome to my life changing event. I hope you wish me well and I hope my trip will help you with your venture through life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
