tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38022169286369472292012-01-14T15:57:43.527-07:00For those of you who want to know what's going on with me, and how I am doing - I thought I would write a blog. I have a lot of time to write, and I thought at some point, I might like to have a record of what has happened. This is probably too much info for a lot of you, but if it is, then you don't have to read it. You can look at the pictures :o) PS - I love to read comments and I just added a guestbook... so if you have a minute - please drop me a line.Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.comBlogger1111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-44355933648454490672012-01-14T14:51:00.004-07:002012-01-14T15:57:43.546-07:00

Holy cow! I can't believe it's been over a year since I've blogged. Here at least... I'm still around, in case you were wondering. I've received some comments and emails asking if I was and thought it was awful nice of you to care enough to ask, so the least I could do is respond.Early last year, January 1st to be exact, stuff happened. My mom suffered a really bad stroke that left her

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-71252689468369929402010-11-29T17:31:00.002-07:002010-11-29T17:42:49.324-07:00

After I got my CT in March - 7 1/2 months ago, I never went in for a follow-up. I guess I figured they would call me if anything was wrong. I told a friend that and they gave me a lecture saying "Not so!". Okay. Okay! When I scheduled this CT, I asked for March's results just in case there was a surprise in store for me and they gave them to me (they were good btw). Today, I called in and

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-40525656605080040692010-11-24T16:00:00.001-07:002010-11-25T10:34:14.436-07:00

So today I went in for my six month (albeit a month and a half late) check up via CT Scan. The flavor of my barrium "smoothie" was banana. Such a lie. It is soooo not a smoothie. It's like drinking liquid chalk. Banana flavored liquid chalk. Yumm. Sorry, I'm getting off on a tangent.I'm not sure when I'll get the results back, but I am praying they are unremarkable. I'll let you know.I

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-68913238876060589282010-07-29T11:12:00.003-06:002010-07-29T12:06:43.725-06:00

My Relay for Life event is just over a week away! I'd be so happy if you would consider supporting me. It means a great deal to me as this is very dear to my ♥heart♥ (and colon ;) Donations can be made online at http://main.acsevents.org/goto/prayfortayThere is also a place where you can mail in a check if that works out better for you.Thanks so much!My Reason to RelayI am relaying in honor and

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-15033938105297288572010-05-04T12:32:00.005-06:002010-05-04T21:43:37.966-06:00

Last week was sad, exhausting, painful, emotional - at times joyful, but completely full of love.Yesterday, I attended a funeral for a young girl whose life ended much too soon.I was honored to be asked by my cousin Tommy and his wife Tammy to give the Eulogy at Taylor's funeral. I was also very nervous - public speaking is not what I do best. I had written a letter to Taylor on the night that

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-79755343101753533102010-04-26T22:45:00.009-06:002010-05-04T12:00:40.161-06:00

Taylor Morgan Rivera, 14, was called home to glory on Monday, April 26, 2010. She fought a courageous three-year battle with cancer. She was born Nov. 21, 1995, to the union of Thomas and Tammy (Montelongo) Rivera. She was an eigth-grade student at Roncolli Middle School. She enjoyed softball, music, movies, games, was an avid Colorado Rockies fan, but most of all enjoyed spending time with her

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-34740019796627119572010-03-25T18:24:00.004-06:002010-03-26T11:11:29.714-06:00

Here I am again. One more round since you know when. At least, I know when - always will.I celebrated my 38th birthday in February. Today I will celebrate my 2 year anniversary of remission. I sorta feel like it's my 2nd birthday.I know - any excuse to celebrate Tommy...And you know what? YES. Any excuse to celebrate life. And even more than that - quality of life. I know I'm lucky for where

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-31874369522558297222010-03-01T22:03:00.008-07:002010-03-01T22:25:01.332-07:00

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.And since this happens to be the exact type of cancer I have, I am plugging it here.The American Cancer Society encourages all Americans at average risk to begin screening starting at age 50.Despite progress, colon cancer remains the third leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the United States."Colon cancer is one of only a few

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-29532564733648025592009-11-16T17:00:00.000-07:002009-11-18T00:21:28.511-07:00

Had my check-up today and met with Julie and Dr. C. Geez those people are sure nice at the RMCC - all of them. Hmm, so..... I had my CT scan at the end of September, so that was about 1 1/2 years from my surgery. Lookin' good. That's the word anyway. Doc says there is no evidence of the cancer having spread. *whew* Not that I thought it had, but still - good to hear. Good. To. Hear.Next

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-34608537632950847022009-10-04T16:24:00.007-06:002009-10-04T17:36:13.349-06:00

Ugh.... My laptop died. It was about five years old, so I guess it was time. Anyhow, I thought I would try to make up for some updates that I would have made if it wouldn't have...Let's see. Where do I start?New DoctorAt the end of July I met my new Oncologist. Dr. Cohn with the RMCC. So far, so good. I didn't think the receptionist was especially remarkable - but the nurse that took me back for

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-16567780068438287112009-07-20T22:14:00.004-06:002009-07-20T22:42:18.208-06:00

It's kind of funny, I started a new job last week and have come across a lot of people asking me "How are you doing?" I answer - you know, the way you answer that question. "I'm doing great. How have you been?" To which they respond, "So everything is going okay?"Ohhhhhh.... You mean, how am I dooooooing. I guess I'm doing so well I forget that you might be referring to my C-stats. Or

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-58869790314455213282009-05-06T14:57:00.002-06:002009-05-07T10:16:05.736-06:00

I'm Relay'n people! Friday, June 5th to Saturday, June 6thMy Reason to RelayI Relay because I want to see an end to cancer during my lifetime. I Relay in memory of those who did not live to see that. For my Godmother. My uncle Ronnie. My Grandpa. My Uncle Sonny. For Coleman... I Relay in honor of amazing Survivors who inspired me and gave me great hope in my own battle. For Matthew. For

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-73438813763755571632009-04-26T00:34:00.005-06:002009-04-26T01:02:11.296-06:00

Last week I found out a friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer.She's a co-worker of mine, but we're in totally different departments now, so I don't see her much. We occasionally jot notes to each other on Facebook. I do consider her a friend though in the fact that I enjoy spending time with her when I do, wish it was more often and would keep in touch with her even if we didn't work at the

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-73677929195038998192009-04-03T23:21:00.001-06:002009-04-04T00:22:28.703-06:00

I had my 6 month (from end of chemo) check-up today. While I was waiting, I saw the head nurse Julie head over to the elevators. I had wondered if she was there because I wanted to stop in and say 'hi' to her, so I went over and asked her if she remembered me. She had to take a look, but then said "Oh yeah! Your hair is longer and you have glasses! You look great, how are you..." and gave me

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-46077869203022538202009-03-25T17:41:00.002-06:002009-03-25T17:49:27.730-06:00

I had my surgery one year ago today.So if it's true that the cancer was effectively removed in that surgery and that it hasn't spread, then I am one year on my way to being considered cured.One down, four to go.20%.I know, it might seem out of control - all these "anniversaries" - but the truth is, they're on my mind. I replay in what was going on at this time last year in my head over and over

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-25734540415988497952009-03-09T19:13:00.001-06:002009-03-09T19:18:16.592-06:00

CT Scan today. Prep wasn't great, but not as bad as the others. I had to drink a bottle and a half of this thick solution that kind of tasted like Pina Colada mix. Before the scan, I went up to Oncology to see my clinical trial nurse. She gave me a card that waived my copay - score $200. They didn't say anything about the results, but I have my 6 month check (or one year depending on how you

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-3330148274815543052009-03-01T22:39:00.001-07:002009-03-01T22:39:28.718-07:00

So, I guess today would be my one year anniversary...If 2009 were a leap year, today would be February 29th. On this day last year, I made a trip to the doctor's office that put things into motion in a way I would have never dreamed of.I've went back and read my blog from beginning to end. And I know, it's a book! But I am so glad I documented this journey. I know that I will look back on it in

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-10809181898110759092009-02-10T10:24:00.000-07:002009-02-10T10:27:31.614-07:00

I got the pathology results back and it's good news. The mass found was as the doctor had thought - a buildup of tissue from the original surgery. *Benign * Benign * Benign * Benign * (see post 01/23/09).He says I'm supposed to come back in three years. Dr Azar might say sooner. Man, I hope not...

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-39214919072380400662009-02-05T15:57:00.007-07:002009-02-05T18:43:32.900-07:00

So guess what I did today? I had my first colonoscopy...I can honestly say what they say is true - "the prep is worse than the procedure". And it will probably surprise you to know, what I mean by that - is drinking almost a gallon of a salty-lemonade tasting drink was the worst!I went in at 8am and was getting ready with the assistance of my nurse, Anne. She talked to me about her young

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-8604950527689453762009-01-23T15:26:00.000-07:002009-01-26T15:30:57.838-07:00

Pathology results are in. The mole that was removed at my 1/15 appointment was found to be benign.... which is good in case anyone is wondering.Benign Be*nign", a. OE. benigne, bening, OF. benigne, F. b'enin, fem. b'enigne, fr. L. benignus, contr. from benigenus; bonus good + root of genus kind. See Bounty, and Genus. 1. Of a kind or gentle disposition; gracious; generous;

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-13809900695656052152009-01-15T16:26:00.004-07:002009-01-15T16:42:07.572-07:00

Let's see... where to start? It's actually not that interesting.I do have to correct myself - it was a "mole" I went and had checked out (4 of them), not a birthmark... but birthmark sounds better to me. Like it's not my fault, I was born that way. Even though, I wasn't born that way, the moles just came on their own accord, I guess it's still not my fault... what?My appointment was easy

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-67748613465480877542009-01-14T08:07:00.002-07:002009-01-14T08:21:40.362-07:00

Tomorrow I have my first follow-up appointment since I've completed my chemotherapy...I received a call from Kaiser about a referral. She asked me if I wanted to schedule the appointment. "Sure. What's it for?" I had forgot I was supposed to go in for a blood draw shortly after my chemo ended. My magnesium or something was low. I never went in. But this call wasn't for that, it just

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-28152090727109478182009-01-01T16:27:00.003-07:002009-01-01T16:55:48.272-07:00

Wow! What a year. And I made it through... all the way to the end just in case you were wondering :)You may have noticed my postings have slowed down. Life seems pretty much back to normal and I am enjoying that. I've been back to work full-time over a month and things are going well there. I am very happy to still be employed, although very aware that Sun will be cutting a lot of their

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-29554299633024018642008-12-11T14:29:00.001-07:002008-12-11T14:32:23.274-07:00

Sometimes, life knocks you down. And sometimes, life knocks you out... for a bit.Looking back, I feel like I got knocked down back in March. But I was able to get back up, and all in all, felt like I only had a few scratches at the end.Last weekend, I got knocked out. So, you might ask me how I'm doing - and the honest answer is - physically, I am doing GREAT! It's been two months since my

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-79558021221119492372008-11-10T22:12:00.003-07:002008-11-10T22:16:46.482-07:00

Guess what today is... my one month anniversary of being chemo-free. Well, at least my last day of chemo was October 10th when I disconnected my infusion pump (banana phone) and had my central line removed. Who knows how long the stuff sticks around inside me. Boy, this month seemed to fly by. I've been at work for two weeks now and it's going well. I am only working part-time, 4 hours a day

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-82083083283486289182008-10-28T10:41:00.005-06:002008-10-28T11:04:12.137-06:00

So I had my party and I thought it was awesome. I felt so looooooved! :o)My only regrets are that I felt like I barely said "hi" and "bye" to almost everyone - didn't really have much of a chance to sit and talk to anybody... Bummmmmmer. But hopefully we will catch up if we didn't get to there. I'm also bummed that I didn't take enough pictures! argh!Awe well, I still had fun and it was great

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-70448106331295665612008-10-20T13:49:00.003-06:002008-10-20T13:57:15.549-06:00

Just a quick update since I've been told I am slacking :o)I am doing great! So happy to be done with chemo, just can't stop smiling. My side effects are going away - I don't have nausea everyday and my face doesn't hurt as much (headache, jaw-ache and watery eyes)... I still have fatigue and am sleeping in and I have neuropathy in both feet and both hands, but especially bad in my left hand

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-56678851025548582712008-10-11T10:57:00.002-06:002008-10-11T11:01:36.041-06:00

Yesterday I completed my last banana phone (take home chemo). And then I went into the clinic to have my central line removed. Praise God. I've had those plastic tubes sticking out of my chest and arm for 6 months! You don't know what a relief it is for me not to have them there anymore. I am soooo happy! So yay! I am done with that. Moving on to the next phases... Some testing, lots of

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-44397854275652064432008-10-08T19:54:00.003-06:002008-10-08T20:05:13.919-06:00

Haha! I actually don't have much to say except Hooray! I had my last chemotherapy appointment today!!!!! Everything went well. I had low magnesium, but nothing that stopped the treatment. I also was advised to take a vitamin supplement for my neuropathy (tingly fingers and toes). And I found out that I might have to come back in three months vs six months... either works for me. As of now -

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-17201623597562507042008-09-30T13:45:00.005-06:002008-09-30T14:03:10.424-06:00

Oops. I guess it took me a while to get back. It would be true to say that I have been wayyyyy more tired this past week than I have been through my whole treatment - so I have been sleeping accordingly. But, tiredness and sleep I can deal with, so I'm not complaining.When I did find some energy to get up - I hung out with Mondo and Eric, went to a movie with Darren & Mondo (Igor), saw the

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-17358166721107649822008-09-24T16:27:00.002-06:002008-09-24T16:32:13.488-06:00

I am excited that after today, I only have ONE chemotherapy session to go... really, I am. But I am really tired right now and my tummy hurts, so I'm not so up to writing a blog at the moment. I have updates because I found out what my next steps will be and I will post them later. Short story - today basically went well, I'm home, and I'm gonna go take a nap.zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz....

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-58977384412573319732008-09-21T00:29:00.003-06:002008-09-21T00:43:07.910-06:00

"angry stitches" + central line falling out + PICC line insert + ouch, blood clots + PICC line removed + another surgery + new central line. + breathing problems + CAT scan + more steroids = THREE crummy weeks!But I'm over it. As soon as I finished my last chemo I vowed that my next four - LAST four would be better. So far, so good!Fri, 09/12 - Roller Derby! Woohoo!Sat, 09/13 - My Godson's

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-79638112495388103072008-09-10T19:22:00.005-06:002008-09-10T20:22:32.914-06:00

Sooooo, today was FUN... well, it wasn't really FUN, but it was exciting. I guess what I really mean is - it was a looooong day at the Franklin Clinic.Where do I start? My day should look something like this - 10:30 Blood Draw, 11:30 Dr Appt, 12:00 Chemo, 2:30/3'ish on my way home.Instead it looked like this - 10:35 - Arrive at Franklin Center 10:40'ish -

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-6166921356787058822008-09-08T21:48:00.003-06:002008-09-08T21:58:28.393-06:00

Surgery UpdateI made it to my appointment at 11am, and had to wait in pre-op until almost 1pm. My surgery lasted about an hour and it worked on the first try! I guess they did an XRay in the operating room to make sure the line went to the right place. I woke up in the OR, and I remember talking to the doctors and people in the room, but I don't remember about what. Then the next thing I know

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-15211957187805705622008-09-05T12:23:00.002-06:002008-09-05T12:45:44.714-06:00

I just got home from my pre-op appointment. Yep, that means the winner is - the Central Line or Hohn Catheter. Yay. I really mean YAY! cause at least I will be given anesthesia. I don't know what the difference is between the PICC and the Hohn - but for some reason the PICC can be installed with only a numbing agent and by a nurse. But the Hohn requires surgery. Since I have chemo on

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-18291886573456550652008-09-03T18:25:00.006-06:002008-09-11T16:22:53.237-06:00

I guess going to the Medical Center every other week isn't enough for me, so I took a trip there today...My upper arm has been bothering me since I had my PICC line installed just over a week ago. It's been a dull but constant pain increasing each day and although I could deal with it if I had to, it still hurt. It wasn't so fun to sleep with it either.I didn't want to call in cause I was

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-73203321461793629632008-08-28T16:52:00.003-06:002008-08-28T17:08:04.984-06:00

YAY! My neutrophils decided to be friends with me again. They came up enough for me to get my 9th treatment today. Only THREE more to go. I almost can't believe it.So there was an Angel at the infusion center today. See, since I didn't expect to have to come in for treatment today, I didn't have company with me. No big deal, I was tired and I wanted to sleep through the treatment. BUT, I

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-28728716817062652372008-08-27T16:53:00.003-06:002008-08-28T17:11:58.899-06:00

I kinda thought this was gonna happen 'cause I forgot to take my neupogen shot on Monday night. I called in and they told me not to take the shot and to go ahead and come in 'cause the counts could come up...Well, true story - my counts weren't high enough to get chemotherapy. My doctor and the head nurse were soooooo apologetic, it made me feel bad. Mostly because I wasn't stressed out or

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-91680770816028070592008-08-26T19:53:00.005-06:002008-08-28T17:14:37.002-06:00

I was sooooooo nervous and scared about today. It's been on my mind all week and I don't know what I was so stressed about. I guess the thought of going in for a new line almost made it feel like I was starting all over again. I know I'm not, but my mind must be playing tricks on me. Either way, today didn't go as well as it could have, but I came out okay after all was said and done.I went

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-16793566611366359722008-08-18T17:04:00.005-06:002008-08-18T17:34:43.260-06:00

Okay, I didn't break it, but it doesn't work anymore. It's not even there anymore. Maybe you're wondering what the heck I'm talking about 'cause my last post probably didn't make any sense. I'm talking about my central line or "port". For those of you who haven't been graced with the view of two tubes sticking out of my chest - that is what my central line is... umm, was. It's where they

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-41776276645916661652008-08-13T16:52:00.007-06:002008-08-13T21:26:27.213-06:00

Wella wella yeah. Just got back from my EIGHTH chemotherapy treatment. Yesssssss! That means I am now 2/3 of the way through! Only four more treatments! Yes, I'm psyched about that.Today went well..... especially since I didn't get checked in until I had already been there for three hours. Here's what happened - when I got to the waiting room, there was no one at the desk (kinda weird cause

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-89046498316983765582008-08-05T10:37:00.003-06:002008-08-05T10:44:03.603-06:00

Whoa.... feeling a bit more energetic - FINALLY...Yesterday I got up and dyed my hair. It's a mess. It's pink. Really pink now. Yikes. And then I got ready, not that I had anything to do, but still - I got ready. I made dinner for the family and even took a walk to the park. Yay!Today I'm going downtown for a bit and then out for my friend Johnny's Birthday - and cause it's Tuesday.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-83869043494926956702008-08-02T22:42:00.001-06:002008-08-02T22:43:18.383-06:00

This is how my day went... ....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-68413641808701301732008-07-30T16:26:00.005-06:002008-07-30T17:29:26.953-06:00

Here I am again... just got back from my 7th session. 12-11-10-9-8-7-6.... Not that I'm counting down or anything... :o)You know, I've heard people say before that they can't stand hospitals. They have to be practically on their death bed to go in to see a doctor and they won't go visit anyone no matter what. I always thought "What's the deal? What's sooooo bad about hospitals?" But today

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-74559545476459266642008-07-21T11:02:00.004-06:002008-07-21T12:14:36.857-06:00

Argh, I've been slacking again! I meant to post about the Relay for Life over the weekend, but I guess I just vegged out instead - sorry! The thing is, I don't really know where to start... it was such an awesome night, I don't feel like I can do it justice. Let's see... First I will go with who was there...Me, my mom, my dad, Darren and Mondo. Mario, Karen, Sophia and Mateo. From Sun (work)

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-64002744817876380322008-07-16T16:27:00.004-06:002008-07-17T00:36:24.225-06:00

Guess what... I have GOOD NEWS! See how happy I am?!?!?!cheeeeeese!I had my 6th of 12 treatments today. I am HALFWAY THROUGH! I don't know why, but I am really excited about that. I guess it's just another blessing I have to count that things have went so well so far. I still am positive and full of hope and what I think is really unexpected - HaPpY! You know what I did for my pre-chemo

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-63053561520147087882008-07-13T14:12:00.004-06:002008-07-13T15:01:18.431-06:00

Thought I would give a quick update for those of you who'd like to know what's been going on with me. I've felt pretty good this week and have done some 'fun stuff' with my family...Tuesday, 7/8 - Took Darren, my godson Adrian and my niece Aubreyana to Adventure Golf and Go-Karts. Then we came home and played Uno & Monopoly.Wednesday, 7/9 - WDP Board Meeting which turned out to be fun. I

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-66508356754145436602008-07-06T23:24:00.005-06:002008-07-07T00:11:06.497-06:00

Wholly cow! This past treatment kinda knocked me out!My "norm" has been to come home, blog and then sleep after a treatment. This week, I didn't - I had to run an errand so that cut into my nap time. I don't know if that is what knocked me out of whack, but I couldn't catch up. I was so tired - I felt like all I could do is sleep whenever I could.On Thursday morning, I did manage to catch a

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-80836727744147057942008-07-02T17:21:00.006-06:002008-07-02T17:46:24.294-06:00

Just a quick note about my treatment today...Everything went well, but it was a long day. I went in at 10:15am and Dr Azar saw me early. Then my blood draw went in and as usual, took an hour to get results.My numbers - Range Actual Low High WBC 13.0 3.5 11.0 HGB 12.7 12.0

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-28036151749023434042008-06-27T11:16:00.003-06:002008-06-27T11:23:33.014-06:00

Last night I took my first "mini-make-a-wish".That's what I call it at least. I was accepted to a program offered by the Diana Price-Fish Foundation that allows adults actively dealing with cancer to "play hookie" from cancer once a month by doing a fun event. For this month's event, I got tickets to the musical Sweeny Todd that is playing at the Buell. I love doing stuff like that!First we

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-59406869909238828842008-06-23T23:00:00.002-06:002008-06-24T00:54:05.638-06:00

You should have been getting your driver's license, going to proms, and graduating from high school. You should have known your niece and nephew light up my day when they say "I love you auntie Tommy". You should have got a chance to meet your cousins, and maybe even babysit a time or two ;o) You should be in all of our family pictures!! It's been a lifetime. Nine years is a lifetime of

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-61807611297750316002008-06-22T12:30:00.003-06:002008-06-22T12:46:50.764-06:00

Just a quick post to let you all know about my Friday night...My favorite comedian (and I have seen many, many, many comedians) - Jo Koy was in town and doing a show at Comedy Works. Matthew got tickets and a group of about 19 together to go. We went to dinner at PF Changs first and then we headed on over for the 10pm show.I've seen Jo Koy twice before. The first time he was touring with

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-18365679549710914682008-06-20T00:27:00.002-06:002008-06-20T00:31:05.020-06:00

So, I had a pretty awesome day...First, I woke up at noon... nice. Then Christina H came over and we went to Heritage Square for some sun and mountain climbing exercise :o) I used to work at the Alpine Slide, so we walked up to the top and I said hi to my friend Debbie who is the manager there. I didn't just used to work for her, I knew her whole family. Her sister Claudia used to be one of my

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-10778099950018925172008-06-18T22:39:00.007-06:002008-06-18T22:54:07.611-06:00

Okay, not sure if you noticed - but I'm slacking. Partially because I wanted to keep my pleas for CELL PHONES and attention to the American Cancer Society RELAY FOR LIFE at the top of the queue. (Please review the links noted to see if you can offer your support for either of these worthy causes). And partially 'cause I didn't really feel inspired to write while I was sick.But since I had a

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-1806669796470899682008-06-13T19:20:00.002-06:002008-06-13T19:31:58.599-06:00

I've decided to take part in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. It's an event that brings together the whole community and helps raise funds for the fight against this disease. I know you care about cancer, too, and I'd love for you to join me as part of my Relay team.At the event, we'll camp out overnight, walk around the track, and meet lots of new people. There is an incredible

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-18320259042494998442008-06-12T10:58:00.003-06:002008-06-12T11:12:06.584-06:00

Ugh... still sick. Nothing horrible, just enough to get me whining. Wah wah wah... I guess the only reason I am dwelling a little bit longer on it (2nd paragraph) - is 'cause yesterday was supposed to be the start of my "up week". I had been growing in confidence that this roller coaster ride will have it's "ups" to go along with the "downs". And I suppose I should feel lucky that the "ups"

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-33414153509164168302008-06-10T11:27:00.000-06:002008-06-10T11:28:19.831-06:00

It's June, and I have a cold... ick!

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-72114671268340985132008-06-04T16:10:00.011-06:002008-06-04T23:11:47.463-06:00

Weeeeeeee! I completed my 3rd chemo treatment today! I am now 1/4 of a way through!I forgot to get a print out of my exact counts today, but apparently my neutrophils were where they were supposed to be! Dr Azar sounded happy that it worked and I will keep praying that one shot of neupogen per session will work for the entire regimen. That is very very good news!My appointment was at 9am.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-3693916994961077162008-06-02T22:53:00.000-06:002008-06-02T22:56:03.935-06:00

The question is - What are you going to do with your old cell phone?If you're looking for a charitable way to recycle it - I would be happy to take it off your hands! I would like to collect as many cell phones as I can to donate to the Diana Price-Fish Cancer Foundation. I thought that this was a great way to support this awesome foundation and even better, it won't cost you a dime! In

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-10112712996595072512008-05-30T16:35:00.008-06:002008-05-31T12:31:41.934-06:00

Just wanted to post a link... to Darren's blog. He just started it. Hopefully he will keep it up :o) with some prodding I'm sure...http://darrenwrites.blogspot.com/Today was his last day of school. He's completed the sixth grade! Wow!This has been his Best School Year yet and I am really proud of him.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-13273704529968628532008-05-28T20:22:00.009-06:002008-05-28T21:20:21.649-06:00

What a beautiful day it was today huh? My mom and I went downtown to hang out and visit the local beauty school - The Aveda Institute - for some summer pampering at the discount level. She was supposed to get her hair cut, and I was going to get a pedicure. A power outage at the salon changed that plan. See what I mean, just 'cause you add it to the calendar, doesn't mean it's gonna happen.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-14868047033263736592008-05-27T23:15:00.007-06:002008-05-27T23:51:04.637-06:00

My bananaphone bag... Yes, it's a fanny pack - but look how cool I made it. Haha, yes - you heard me right. I said cool. hahaha. I'm soooo funny! Don't bother telling me how crooked my flower is, I'm gonna pretend it's just perfect ;o)Me & my Godson Adrian at Hibachi Grill - celebrating his continuation, which I didn't get to go to 'cause I was supposed to be getting chemo (2nd try).Alejandro

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-29716381329757516332008-05-26T23:58:00.003-06:002008-05-27T00:13:05.286-06:00

So today, I guess, was the official end of the three-day Memorial Day Weekend. I thought it went well. Anyway, here's my recap - I only have one previous chemotherapy treatment to gauge it by, and I guess I could have given myself some slack. One thing I did find out is - either I look better than I feel, or lots of people are lying to me.Backtrack... After my first chemo (which was also on a

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-17318273540478207702008-05-21T17:12:00.007-06:002008-06-04T23:06:26.309-06:00

Hi friends!Guess what? The Neupogen worked! My counts were good to go and I was finally able to receive my 2nd chemotherapy treatment! Yay! I am now through with two!Here's where I'm at - Range Actual Low High Bloodpressure 103/71 (Less than 120/80) WBC 17.3 3.5 11.0

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-36779514159686305742008-05-19T12:32:00.007-06:002008-05-20T10:03:49.901-06:00

Allrighty. Here I am again. And what's that you're saying? "Gee, that was fast Tommy. I thought it took several hours to have your blood drawn, see the doc, receive chemo and then get home and settled to blog. You, are amazing."Well, you're right - **wink-wink**. It should have taken a lot longer...Actually, my WBC's must be on strike or something. I mean, I think they're talking it over

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-76060322059822721712008-05-19T07:18:00.001-06:002008-05-19T07:20:20.698-06:00

Okay, I'm off to try again... 2nd Round of Chemo. Hopefully my bloodcounts will cooperate. Wish me luck!

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-37064246235127037142008-05-15T15:51:00.009-06:002008-05-15T18:28:42.592-06:00

So, today's been fun... kinda.I made a bright and early appointment for a haircut this morning so that I could make it in time to my chemo. (Hey Sue, what do you think of my hair all pinned up? - Sexy huh? hahaha!)The schedule should have went something like this - 9:30am to 11:00am: Haircut11:30am: Blood Draw in Oncology12'ish: Lunch12:30pm: Doctor's Appt w/Charlene Trouillot (NP)1:00pm to 5:

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-59535291324900386622008-05-13T18:53:00.004-06:002008-05-13T19:12:47.837-06:00

Heya Peeps! It's been a minute since I've written hasn't it?Well, just to let you all know I am doing well. I know I missed church this last Sunday, but it was only 'cause I was getting ready for our Mother's Day celebration. Thanks to all of you who called and emailed to check on me. I love you for it. This past week has actually found me feeling pretty good. Spending time with the family

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-8790006449765878132008-05-08T17:18:00.007-06:002008-05-08T22:31:40.405-06:00

Yesterday I finally felt better! I got up... and, I got my appetite back. Yay!I went to lunch with some friends (Happy Birthday Sue!) and then I stopped at my doctor's office. I even went and visited the nurse I mentioned back in Are you a Tigger or an Eeyore? She is so nice. And then I went to Darren's school to talk about my photography. It felt good to get out of the house, and I felt

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-78035437206964068852008-05-06T11:31:00.003-06:002008-05-06T11:34:54.815-06:00

I have never been so afraid to eat in my life.  I guess since nothing sounds good to me, I'm afraid if I try to eat it might make me sick.  Last night I had a dream about school.  Not really about school, but about the cinnamon rolls they used to sell at school.  They were rolled really thin and super gooey and so good.  I had a dream about going to school to get some cinnamon rolls and nachos. 

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-78324355709244741312008-05-04T22:07:00.004-06:002008-05-08T16:25:10.417-06:00

I feel like poo.That's why I haven't been blogging like crazy, like I had been. It wasn't to give you all a break if that's what you were thinking :o)Anyway, my whole weekend didn't suck... Friday, I woke up at 4:30pm, just in time to get ready to go meet some friends for dinner. Remember way back at the beginning of this roller coaster ride - when I checked myself into the ER? Well, that

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-39056286876862906942008-05-01T00:10:00.005-06:002008-05-01T12:39:47.809-06:00

Just a few pics from the zoo trip, aka "Tommy BC's New Year's Eve Celebration" mentioned on post titled Why are my eyes leaking. A few pics... from Chemo Session#1 and Family Dinner Also, a few pics from chemo session #1 (probably duplicated below) but with additional photos of the family visiting for dinner afterwards.Also, wanted to apologize on slacking off on noticing the goodstuff in blog

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-27277736167381316712008-04-30T16:26:00.011-06:002008-04-30T19:07:24.857-06:00

Guess what. I am done with my first chemo treatment! 1 down. 11 to go.My appointment with Dr Azar was at 9:30. I didn't get in to see her until 10:30. Didn't really talk about anything. Just checked my central line and asked if I needed pain meds. Darren went with us and she told him, "No one calls me Doctor, just Azar." I don't know how long it will take me to get used to that

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-50196070508225365642008-04-29T09:43:00.004-06:002008-04-30T19:17:15.834-06:00

This past week I've found myself in a weird daze, I feel like a deer caught in headlights, but not physically. Just in my head. I find myself zoning in and out and thinking about stuff like - ice cream, my toes, co-pays, and tape marks. I come out of the daze and feel moisture covering my eyes and know that if I blink or say anything, surely I won't be able to stop the tears.I don't, however,

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-74888957564738660782008-04-28T12:27:00.003-06:002008-04-30T17:21:17.319-06:00

Last Thursday, I told my mom that she could drop me off for the central line surgery and then go back home to take Darren to school. Then I told her I wouldn't be out until about 11 if she wanted to wait to come back till then. The thing is, I wasn't out-out the whole time and I didn't realize how much I would notice that I was alone. Thank God Mondo walked in (unexpectedly) when he did. It was

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-7582606680923112792008-04-26T23:00:00.011-06:002008-04-30T19:06:40.822-06:00

I mentioned a piece of surgery garb - an aluminum looking puffy hat, that looks like one of those popcorn tins that open up real big when you heat it over the stove - in the post titled The Big Day - Part I. This is a picture Jazzy modeling it off. Sexy! I also brought home the matching blanket.After my surgery, when I was in recovery, they brought me a bunch of warm sheets because I was

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-51344237466517687002008-04-24T13:43:00.005-06:002008-05-01T00:18:30.943-06:00

I just got home from the Franklin Medical Center where my outpatient surgery was performed. I am feeling really tired and the area of the incision and my arms hurt a bit, but other than that - doing well.So, you know how before you go into surgery the doctor comes in and discusses the possible complications... like you have a 1% chance of the such and such puncturing your lung. Or you have a 1%

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-23550682125124119762008-04-23T11:34:00.006-06:002008-05-01T00:18:30.944-06:00

I heard from nurse Tracey this morning. My paperwork was submitted for participation in the Clinical Trial and I was drawn for the control group - which means I will not be receiving the additional chemo drug Cetuximab. That's the one that I mentioned in a previous blog titled "Freaked Out" cause um, I was freaked out about possible side effects...So lets weigh the good and bad about this...

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-76936515136695310722008-04-22T17:59:00.006-06:002008-05-01T00:18:30.945-06:00

Tired of me already? Haha! Too bad!Cheers to another great day...First, I was able to go to a lunch meeting to meet a potential candidate for the Board of Trustees of West Denver Prep. It was a very small group, but still a good meeting. I feel like I have been withdrawn from my activities on the Board and also on the Parent Council since I started this "I don't feel good" business, but I

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-70170754148693621422008-04-21T14:19:00.011-06:002008-05-01T00:18:30.946-06:00

So, I just got back from "chemo class"...Mondo and Sheila met up with me and my mom and we grabbed a quick cup of coffee before we headed up to class. The nurse who held the class gave an introduction naming off my Oncology Team - including my doctor, nurses, pharmacist, dietitian and social worker. Then we watched a video. And then went over some information about chemotherapy in general. It

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-39555998707615358712008-04-20T00:34:00.008-06:002008-04-30T19:12:42.923-06:00

Tonight I went to my friend Erica's wedding. She married another friend of mine, Ryan.Ryan was one of the first people I remember meeting at Sun. I remember, because when my brother introduced me to him he just started talking to me - and fast. All I could do was watch him and wonder, how do you do that? But I don't remember if I understood anything of what he was saying. If you ever met

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-8265358804288624502008-04-18T23:00:00.002-06:002008-04-30T19:14:04.599-06:00

The Colorado Mammoth had their final regular season home game tonight at the Pepsi Center. They kicked butt! This victory ensures that the team will host a West Division Semifinal playoff game, likely to be played on Saturday, May 3!It was such a high energy game! Really, they all are, but this one was extra. So fun. Is it so bad that one of the highlights was seeing the fight between Tom

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-49649927348866861632008-04-18T07:00:00.002-06:002008-04-30T19:15:23.923-06:00

Okay, so I think my attitude towards this whole cancer business has been pretty good. Optimistic. Hopeful. Determined. And not because I am trying to put on a front for anyone, but because that is how I truly feel. Even through my first meeting with my Oncologist, Dr Azar on Wednesday. I re-listened to the short portion that we did record and was amazed at how calm and collected I sounded.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-72066031095721639022008-04-17T10:52:00.003-06:002008-04-30T19:16:48.793-06:00

Feelings...I know yesterday's blog update was pretty technical. Scheduled. Informative. I guess I forgot to put some feeling into it, so I thought I would add it today - cause man, I got a lot of feeling...Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, I found myself staring up at the paint in the ceiling and thinking, or wondering - I don't know about what. I guess I was trying to figure out how I

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-79537640342010247542008-04-16T19:04:00.010-06:002008-04-30T19:32:00.933-06:00

Okay, Okay, Okay. Here's the big update. I wasn't trying to hold out on info - the doctor's appointment that started at 1:30pm lasted until 4:00pm! Yikes!That being said, there was a lot of information. I had even bought a digital voice recorder so that I could re-listen to the conversation. Unfortunately, I didn't press the record button. That was truly disappointing. But Sheila was there

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-14424325777590921412008-04-15T00:08:00.003-06:002008-04-30T19:18:10.941-06:00

My mom & dad left for California on Wednesday morning. They got a chance to see my uncle Sonny and spend some time with him, although he was non-responsive through the visits. He had been given pain medication which placed him in a drug induced coma. He passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning. They spent time with family and returned home this evening.But my dad especially wanted

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-78789518809226761192008-04-13T23:45:00.001-06:002008-04-30T19:18:45.644-06:00

This song has been in my head all day (well, since we left church this morning)...I sing a simple song of love To my Savior, to my Jesus. I'm grateful for the things You've done, My loving Savior, my precious Jesus. My heart is glad that You've called me Your own. There's no place I'd rather be than In Your arms of love, In Your arms of love. Holding me still, holding me near, In Your arms of

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-34690574156026584862008-04-10T13:29:00.004-06:002008-04-30T19:20:15.856-06:00

Today, Mondo and I met up with my friend Matthew for lunch. I had borrowed his camera to download pictures from the Mammoth Game on Thursday and wanted to return it (Thanks Matthew!). We met at Noodles & Co near Belmar. Mondo tried my dish and confirmed what I had mentioned early, that it was a little spicy. I said "That's okay. Nothin' that the Cold Stone we're going to go get won't cool

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-91995495737481376752008-04-09T21:40:00.003-06:002008-04-30T19:21:07.516-06:00

Oh yeah, staples were removed yesterday and all seemed fine. I got a pathology report on my tumor too - but it doesn't really make any sense to me. That's okay, looking forward to discussing with my Oncologist, Dr Azar.BTW - The dimensions of it were 5 x 3.5 x 2.3 cm.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-28509587730894957232008-04-08T13:42:00.003-06:002008-04-30T19:21:46.570-06:00

My dad got news this past weekend that his brother Sonny, who lives in California is quite ill. He has cancer that has spread through his body and the doctors have said that there is nothing else they can do for him. They've given him only hope of a few more weeks. My mom and dad have decided that they will drive to Riverside on Wednesday to try to go spend a bit of time with him.This past

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-422723360472009532008-04-06T23:30:00.002-06:002008-04-30T19:23:33.855-06:00

The ending of a great week... I got out of the house starting with the Mammoth game on Thursday (details in previous post).Then Friday night I attended a Mission Estonia Poker Party Fundraiser at Marvin and Donna's House. It was a lot of fun and really good to see some of my Faith Mountain family. Although most of them had visited me in the hospital, it still felt like a long time since I had

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-77654803000679654032008-04-03T23:10:00.018-06:002008-04-30T19:26:48.576-06:00

The Tarpit visits me in Section 102!Me, Meghan & MondoMatthew & Me!I just got home from the best game ever! Well, actually - I missed alot of the game since I couldn't sit forward in my seat and jump up whenever I wanted to. And usually, I want to stand through the whole game. But, I made it to the game and I was able to sit through the whole thing, so that was awesome!Just Happy!During

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-22963949769936775932008-04-03T11:15:00.003-06:002008-04-30T19:28:41.186-06:00

I love Mondo.Yesterday he called me and asked me what I wanted to do about the game.Mondo: Do you still want to go?Tommy: Yeah. I don't know, I was thinking maybe I'd go at half-time, just in case I can only sit like that for a short time. I'd rather see the second half than have to leave early.Mondo: Well, I talked to Eric and he wanted to know if you were okay for it. He said, maybe if you

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-51420588267956821862008-04-02T14:00:00.001-06:002008-04-30T19:29:40.381-06:00

Dr Azar's office called and said that they have sent an order for Labs and Chest X-Rays. Friday, April 11th. I will complete these at the Lakewood KP as a "walk in" and my follow-up visits will be with her at the Franklin Clinic.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-48597676022810358312008-04-01T16:00:00.002-06:002008-04-30T19:30:15.455-06:00

Have an appointment to meet my oncologist, Dr Azar.Scheduled for Wednesday, April 16th. I was told the appointment would last an hour.Here we go!

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-25342837380722286142008-04-01T14:00:00.006-06:002008-04-30T19:31:13.692-06:00

Allright, yesterday was good, but today was awesome!First, I got another email from Gavin! He replied to my original response. That was a way cool way to start my day. ----------------- Original Message -----------------From: GavinDate: Apr 1, 2008 5:20 AMYes I really am Gavin, I know it's hard to believe especially on April Fools Day but your brother wrote to Steve Govett (our GM) and

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-42330944360650385622008-03-31T23:11:00.000-06:002008-04-01T23:34:52.435-06:00

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-14858532098547980262008-03-31T13:00:00.001-06:002008-04-30T19:33:02.109-06:00

I got a call from Dr Vaughn's office today. That was fast. They've scheduled me to remove my staples on April 8th. Didn't say anything about the oncologist referral, and I didn't ask.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-26096276745469597222008-03-31T10:00:00.004-06:002008-04-30T19:34:17.044-06:00

Last night didn't feel so good. We rented "Dan in Real Life", which is a good movie. Parts of it made me laugh and that hurt quite a bit. I also had trouble taking deep breaths. Ouch.Today, not feeling so great either. I'm tired. I'm not doing terrible. I think it's getting better - by the end of the day it's not so hard to breathe.But something else happened today that made me really

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3802216928636947229.post-56326303421743390092008-03-30T14:00:00.001-06:002008-04-30T19:35:21.342-06:00

Last night I was able to eat some 'real food' - Chinese, yumm. Mondo brought over some Griff's cheeseburgers this afternoon. mmmm. Food is so good. I was discharged today at 2pm. All set up to rest on the couch upstairs, which is a good plan. Already have visitors. I love visitors.

Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350961669998921588noreply@blogger.com0