Hoping to go home soon....

I just got back from visiting Pop in the hospital. I was actually hoping to bring him home today. This was not the case. He started again with diarrhea after eating a very soft diet. They will not discharge him yet for fear of dehydration again.

Pop is not in any pain and remains in good spirits through it all. We have really been blessed at the way Pop has handled all that has been going on with his sickness. He was even joking today about saving on barber costs, since he’s losing his hair. He’s not completely bald but the hair thinning is very noticeable (since Pop has always had such a nice thick head of hair).

Thanks to Jenelle and Carlos for their phone calls of concern. Hopefully he’ll be home soon.

Aibonito

Aibonito is my father's hometown. That's where he was born and raised. At the age of 18 he moved to New York ands has lived in the "states" ever since. He loves Aibonito. He loves the atmosphere, he loves the people and he loves the memories. He loves Aibonito, but he wants to be with his family. That’s where his heart is. Close to his kids, close to his mom and close to those that he loves and love him.
That was especially evident today when Jimmy, Ron, Patti and I walked in to see him. All of us at the same time. We could have visited him as a group sooner, but we were staggering our visits to make sure (at least) one of us had seen him everyday. Today we chose to do a group visit and he "lit up". Because that’s where his heart is.
Pop is slowly regaining his strength. We took him for a walk outside and he really enjoyed it. After Pop has a few good meals in him (he’s been "eating" intravenously for a week now), and his stomach issues are passed (no pun intended), the doctors have offered to restart Pop’s chemotherapy at a lower dosage. Pop thinks that a great idea. He’s strong, he’s in good spirits and (in a few days) he hopes to be resting at home . . . watching a Phillies game, getting a phone call from one of us and looking forward to the days to come.

Pop is starting to feel better

Pop is having another good day. He has felt well with no significant symptoms or side effects. He was scheduled to have colonoscopy this evening (a tube up the culito). This was basically to see if he had any internally bleeding or other problems that would prevent him from eating and pooping. If all goes well with that, he will begin liquids this evening, and eventually a soft diet in the morning.

We’ve had many phone calls from concerned family members (Uncle Paul, Titi Elba, Diane Gonzalez (Chati’s wife), Gringy and Pop’s brothers and sisters from Philly). We (his children) all appreciate everyone’s concern for Papi. I called Eleana (our sister in Puerto Rico) this evening and let her know what was going on also.

We haven’t discussed what further treatment options will be pursued once he recovers from the side effects of chemotherapy. I’ll keep you all posted.

The picture of Pop here was obviously taken at Melissa’s a couple of months ago.



FYI: Just so you are aware, the time posted at the bottom of the comments is always about 3 hours earlier than Eastern Time. I don’t know why this is.

Finally, some good news to report!

Tom and I went to see Pop this evening. Grandmom and Tio Israel spent some time with him todat also. He is finally beginning to feel a bit better. Yesterday, they started him on a “hormone” injection to control his diarrhea. I’ve never heard of this, but it seemed to finally work. His pain is also better since they started him on low dose morphine yesterday. It was great to see him up and walking around the room for a little bit. He still hasn’t eaten anything since his admission. They started him on TPN a couple of days ago. TPN is liquid nutrients given through the veins, similar to an intravenous. Once he no longer has nausea and diarrhea for a day or two, they will start him on some solid food to see how he handles it.

There still have been no conclusions on whether or not he will resume the same type of chemo therapy (at a lower dose) or if they will try an alternative treatment. I’ll let you all know once they make a decision.

Pop still shouldn’t have many visitors but if you feel like talking to him, he seems to be ok with talking on the phone. Here’s his direct room number at the hospital: (215-728-3415) if you want to give him a call. Please make sure you call before 7:00pm, since Pop goes to bed very early. Gracias-

More of the same.....

I wish that I had some encouraging words to report concerning Pop's condition. The reality is...that I don't. Pop remains very sick. He continues with the same symptoms (vomiting, diarreah, headache and abdominal cramps). We have to keep in mind that these symptoms are directly related the the side effects of his chemo therapy and not symptoms of his cancer. Pop also has developed leukopenia. This is a substantial decrease in white blood cells. We need white blood cells to fight infection. That means that Pop virtually has no immune system. He is very susceptible to any and all infection. That is why they told us that he is not to have any visitors. His kids and his mom stop by for very brief visits. Once his white blood cell count is back up, I will let you all know when it's OK to visit or call him. Until then, please hold off on phone calls and especially visits to Pop.I assume that Pop will still be in the hospital for several more days. I'll keep you posted.

I thought I'd post this picture of Pop so we can also reflect on "happy times with Pop". This was taken at Jim & Iris's house this past Thanksgiving. Iris set up Kareokee equipment. Well. of course, this was Pop's time to take the stage. Pop was singing his mariachi music to us all. For those who didn't know, Pop recorded a CD this past fall. He loves Mexican music and always wanted to record Mariachi music. He fulfilled this dream last year. I'm not a big fan of Mexican music but it really came out pretty good! If you would like a copy of the CD give me a call and I'll get you one.

Tom's submission from today

Saturday Night in Philly:

Mom, Patti and I went to visit Pop today. Patti brought him a change of pajamas he requested and we were able to speak with one of the nurses concerning Pop’s condition. She told us he had an infection in his urine (which may have been the cause of his diarrhea), he had a low white cell count and most importantly a very low immune system (like that of a new born child). They are giving him IV nutrients and other mediations to help his migraines.
The reason that’s important is because it’s especially important that anyone with the slightest illness (even a cold) NOT visit Pop until he builds up his strength. Pop has also told the staff at the hospital that until he gets the rest he needs, he is not to have visitors while he’s trying to sleep.
Of course, that didn’t stop us (me) from having some fun with Pop. He remains very optimistic and grateful for the love and support he’s received.
For the record, I cannot say enough good things about Fox Chase Hospital. They have an excellent staff, immaculate living conditions and some of the best physicians in the country. I really feel good that some excellent people are taking care of my father. TOM

Day 2 in the hospital

Pop remains in the hospital. He is very slowly getting better. He still gets dizzy and nauseous when he sits up. At this point they are not feeding him until the nausea settles down, He is asking that he not have many visitors or phone calls as he is still very weak and tired, as you can imagine.

Currently, the doctors are unsure if they will proceed with a lower dose of chemo therapy or if they will discontinue it all together (due to his intolerance). I will keep you informed as I learn more.

Thanks for all your prayers, phone calls and emails.

Pop was admitted to the hospital

Pop continued feeling ill with uncontrollable diarrhea. He was weak, had a headache and became quite dehydrated. Patti spend most of the morning with him. I spoke with the Dr. at Fox Chase and he recommended that Pop be admitted for IV fluids and some bloodwork. Jim took Pop to the hospital around 3:00. They started Pop on IV fluids and some medications. Jim and I spent some time with him at the hospital. He was finally resting peacefully so we left him alone. We are saddened that Pop is not feeling well but we are certainly glad that he is in good hands at Fox Chase Cancer Center. I trust he’ll finally get a good nights sleep. Pop really does not want any visitors or phone calls at this time. He is completely drained and would appreciate the rest.

Thanks everyone for you phone calls and concerns. I’ll keep you all informed.

The return of the Hershey squirts....

I was just telling Roxane that journaling my thoughts on Pop is actually very therapeutic for me. I guess it helps me to sit down and just gather my thoughts about Pop’s condition.

Anyway, Pop had a very difficult evening. He continued to struggle with diarrhea (yes, that's what I meant by Hershey squirts) that kept him up all night. Jim showed up early this morning (God Bless him!) and helped Pop get situated. I called Fox Chase to update them on Pop’s condition. The doctor called in a stronger prescription for Pop and so far that seems to be helping. He said that if Pop had persistent diarrhea for another 24 hours, it would be necessary to hospitalize him tomorrow for IV fluids to prevent further dehydration. At this point, I don’t think that will happen. Before I left him this evening, he ate a good dinner (arroz con gandules) and hopefully will have it under control by the morning.

I spoke with the doctor about Pop’s difficulties with the side effects of chemo. The doctor’s response, in his own words, “that’s no way to live!”. Assuming that Pop feels better and regains his strength, they will proceed with his chemotherapy as scheduled next week. They will lower the dose of the chemo in an attempt to minimize the side effects. As Jim says, “let’s just take it one day at a time”

Through it all, Pop remains in relatively good spirits.

Thanks for your concerns.

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Pop's upcoming appointments

I just got back from seeing Pop. He is still dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy. He has been struggling with a headache, diarrhea and abdominal cramps all day. I spoke with the nurse from Fox Chase Cancer Center and she said that these are expected side effects. As long as he’s not dehydrated, there’s not much else to give him. I can’t imagine having him go through this every time he gets chemo!

On a lighter note, Pop had a nice visit with grandma and Tio Amador this afternoon. Of course, Jim, Tom Patti and myself continue taking turns visiting him and sitting with him frequently.

We received his expected schedule for the next two months. Of course, this is all depending on how he tolerates chemo. For those that are interested. Here it is:

Thursday, 4/27
9:30 bloodwork
10:30 chemotherapy infusion

Tuesday, 5/9
3:00 Follow-up with Oncologist (cancer doctor)

Wednesday, 5/10
7:45 bloodwork
8:45 chemotherapy infusion

Wednesday, 5/24
7:45 bloodwork
8:45 chemotherapy infusion

Friday, 5/26
10:00 CT scan (recheck lesions)

Tuesday, 5/30
1:00 Appointment with oncologist (to tell us report/results of CT scan)

My thoughts on Pop

I went to see Pop this afternoon. He is doing much better. He no longer is dealing with nausea or diarrhea. However, he’s been struggling with a headache. He’s had this headache for days and it’s kept him in bed. He feels weak because he hasn’t gotten out of bed in 4 days. He remains in good spirits.

I’ve had several people ask me about Pop’s prognosis. Of course, we are a family that believes in miracles. That being said, Pop’s diagnosis of metastatic lung cancer is a serious one. Pop’s primary source of cancer was his colon (2 years ago). The cancer now has metastasized (spread) to his lungs. Obviously, cancer cells do not simply “jump” from your colon to your lungs. They (the cells) take the path of the bloodstream via other organs. Cancer cells are microscopic and cannot necessarily be detected (seen) on x-rays and CT scans. The assumption is that Pop has scattered cancer cells in other places. The CT scan detected scattered lesions on both lungs. Since it is not in one isolated spot, this type of cancer cannot be treated with surgery (to remove it) or with radiation (to shrink it). Therefore, the only real treatment is treating it with chemicals intravenously (chemotherapy). Pop thinks that it is a “good” thing that he doesn’t require surgery or radiation. When in reality, the opposite is true. He is not being treated with surgery or radiation because his disease is “scattered”. Of course, we let Pop believe whatever he needs to believe to keep his spirits high. Pop is scheduled to receive these chemo treatments every two weeks for 3 months (if he can tolerate it!). At the end of three months, they will repeat his CT scan to see if the chemo is working (killing or stopping the growth of the cancer cells). So, I believe that we should pray for strength, courage and renewed faith for Pop and not really be concerned with his prognosis. We should make our efforts to stay close and connected to him while he is still with us.

On a separate note, Roxane and I spent some time with Little Jessie in Virginia. We took her to the Ringling Brothers Circus that was about 20 miles from her house. We had a great time with her. I called Pop from Virginia and he got to speak to her on the phone. This seemed to really lift his spirits.

The next day after Chemo

Pop had quite a difficult day today with the side effects of chemo. He spent the night (last night) vomiting and with diarrhea. I had his prescriptions filled this morning and he started his medications. He feels a bit better but very wiped out as you can imagine. He has been drinking Gatorade and had some chicken soup for dinner so I don’t believe he’s becoming dehydrated. That would be a serious concern, of course.

Although he feels terrible, he remains in fairly good sprits. I left him around 6 pm and Jim showed up to hang out with him to watch the Phillies game.

Roxane and I will be going to Virginia for the holiday weekend to visit my little sister, Jessie. I’ll keep you all posted on how Pop is progressing when I return.

I spoke with mom yesterday from Puerto Rico and finally told her what was going on.

Thanks everyone for your prayers and concerns. Special thanks to Titi Judy, Titi Elba, Tio Luis, Tony and Gringy for their phone call or email of encouragement. We all appreciate your support.

Love, Jim, Tom, Ron & Patti

The first day of Chemotherapy: A difficult one!

I just got home from spending the day with Pop at Fox Chase (his friend Raina was unable to accompany him). Today he started his chemo infusions. Pop was in great sprits when I picked him up this morning. We got to the hospital at 8am for his bloodwork. He went back to the infusion room around 9:30 to begin his treatments. He was scheduled to receive three different medications over a 5 hour time span. After about 4 hours of infusion, he developed cold sweats, a fever and real bad cramps. Abdominal cramps, legs cramps & arm cramps. They stopped the chemo and gave him some medication to help with the cramps. About an hour later, they restarted the chemo and finished it around 6pm. Pop still didn’t feel well. On the drive home, he became nauseous and got really sick. I got him home, put him to bed and sat with him for a while. He fell asleep and after about ½ hour, I left.

He is not scheduled to go back for his next chemo treatment for about 2 weeks. They said we should keep a close eye on him as he still may get sick in the next couple of days.

I know many of you are concerned about him. My brothers and sisters truly appreciate it. However, for whatever reason, he is still resistant to have a lot of people know about his condition. So out of respect for his wishes, please let’s keep him in our prayers and not bombard him with phone calls. I trust you all understand.

I will keep you all informed on how he’s doing.

Jim took Pop this morning to have his permanent IV port inserted. I stopped by to see him on my way home from work. The procedure went well. Pop tolerated it with no problems. He was sick with a migraine when he got home but I don’t think it was related to his procedure. Pop is scheduled to begin chemo on Wednesday. On a bright note: Jim surprised Pop with a trip to the Phillies game last night. This made Pop's night. He said that he and Jim had a great time even though the Phillies lost (again!).

The beginning of Chemo

Pop and I met with the oncologist this afternoon. Here’s the latest: Pop is going to have his IV permanent port (catheter) inserted on Friday morning. His chemo is scheduled to begin next Wednesday, April 12th. The good news is that he will get “special” chemo infusions at the hospital three times a month, about every 15 days. It will take about 5-6 hours total time. He will go home with continuous “regular” chemo therapy into his port. They are going to allow me to care for his IV port. This of course was great news to Pop (and me), that we don’t need to take the drive to Fox Chase as frequently as we had originally thought. The plan is to do this for two months; as long as Pop tolerates the chemo with minimal side effects. After two months they will repeat the CT scan to see if the tumors have grown or shrunk. They will then re-evaluate his treatment at that time. Pop remains in great spirits through it all. Please go visit him when you get a chance. Love you all, RONZO