The chemo has been finished for a week and a bit and Kate is well on the road to recovery.
The head gear (hats, wigs, etc) is coming in quite handy as a cold snap has set in and unlike in summer it is quite comfortable to have something warm on your head. We are hoping that by the time summer returns, the hair will have grown back fully.
Hopefully we can gain strength from now and return to a life as normal as possible. Kate is being very brave and the boys are so well behaved, we are very proud of them. David is into cosmology, evolution and hockey. Peter continues his soccer with great passion and success (he scored twice last Sunday!)
Thank you all for your continuing thoughts and good wishes.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Saturday, April 30, 2011
30 Apr
Day 4 of 5 is over and we are looking forward to Katy coming home tomorrow. We all miss her so much during these long weeks she spends in hospital.
This time around she felt v nauseous and ill. Thankfully only one more chemo week to go after this week.
This time around she felt v nauseous and ill. Thankfully only one more chemo week to go after this week.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
28 April
Hanging in there, the pink stuff is finished for this week and we are almost over the hump day. Katy is feeling miserable but lookign forward to the royal wedding!
Had a lovely walk with David up to the DNA tower while Peter was playing with his cousins.
Had a lovely walk with David up to the DNA tower while Peter was playing with his cousins.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
27 April
Back into hospital today. The ward and the nursing staff are eerily familiar - not a normal situation. After today, 64% complete, almost two thirds of the way and only three goes of the pink stuff that makes one's hair fall out left.
We had a lovely long week-end with many sessions on the beach and I have taken this week off to look after the boys while they are on holiday. Plan to do fun things! Such as go to the barber, eat fish and build a tree house. Katy is looking forward to watching the royal wedding on Friday. Each their own.
Katy is feeling very tired and sluggish now and devoid of energy. I think it is the compound impact of the chemo. It will take her a long while to recover I fear.
The other day we had a shocking incident which in retrospect was quite funny. The boys were pushing the shopping trolley and managed to push Katy in to the cheese counter. Not having an arm available on that side, she could not stem her fall and she literally fell with her bum in the butter....
Stern words were exchanged and rewards lost.
We had a lovely long week-end with many sessions on the beach and I have taken this week off to look after the boys while they are on holiday. Plan to do fun things! Such as go to the barber, eat fish and build a tree house. Katy is looking forward to watching the royal wedding on Friday. Each their own.
Katy is feeling very tired and sluggish now and devoid of energy. I think it is the compound impact of the chemo. It will take her a long while to recover I fear.
The other day we had a shocking incident which in retrospect was quite funny. The boys were pushing the shopping trolley and managed to push Katy in to the cheese counter. Not having an arm available on that side, she could not stem her fall and she literally fell with her bum in the butter....
Stern words were exchanged and rewards lost.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
23 April 2011
Easter week-end at home, awaiting the next set of chemo which starts Wednesday next week due to the public holidays on Monday and Tuesday.
The boys are behaving much better, the stickers as rewards system seems to be working. We still have a bit of work to do to stop the fighting but it seems some discipline has returned, with not so much cheekiness any more.
Katy is keeping the house beautifully, despite being one armed. It is taking its toll as she is exhausted by the end of each day. Hopefully we are helping her enough but it seems tidying is never ending.
The other night we had 'shrurry' - shredded curry. The new thermo-mix seems to shred everything very finely, including lamb and chicken. An interesting culinary experience.
Martin has taken next week off to look after the boys while Katy is in hospital. We will have some fun with projects. Aside from going to the beach, we will build a tree house and also some Lego technic.
The boys are behaving much better, the stickers as rewards system seems to be working. We still have a bit of work to do to stop the fighting but it seems some discipline has returned, with not so much cheekiness any more.
Katy is keeping the house beautifully, despite being one armed. It is taking its toll as she is exhausted by the end of each day. Hopefully we are helping her enough but it seems tidying is never ending.
The other night we had 'shrurry' - shredded curry. The new thermo-mix seems to shred everything very finely, including lamb and chicken. An interesting culinary experience.
Martin has taken next week off to look after the boys while Katy is in hospital. We will have some fun with projects. Aside from going to the beach, we will build a tree house and also some Lego technic.
Friday, April 15, 2011
16 April
Kate and Paula have gone off to shop this morning. Feeling almost back to normal!
The boys are helping beautifully with their new chores list, in preparation for next week when we are on our own for the first time. They collect stickers for each chore done and can exchange stickers for time on the wii / treats on the week-end. Luckily there are only very few chores, such as getting dressed, brushing your teeth and putting on sunscreen.
Stickers are withheld if they behave poorly (:o<
The only way we will be able to manage under our new circumstances!
The boys are helping beautifully with their new chores list, in preparation for next week when we are on our own for the first time. They collect stickers for each chore done and can exchange stickers for time on the wii / treats on the week-end. Luckily there are only very few chores, such as getting dressed, brushing your teeth and putting on sunscreen.
Stickers are withheld if they behave poorly (:o<
The only way we will be able to manage under our new circumstances!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
12 April
Kate went to the amputation clinic today; it looks like they will make a real difference, with a choice of prosthetics and councelling and support on offer.
Hopefully a network of people who can make life easier under the new circumstances.
Back to full health, the chemo seems to have subsided for the time being.
Hopefully a network of people who can make life easier under the new circumstances.
Back to full health, the chemo seems to have subsided for the time being.
Monday, April 11, 2011
11 April
Almost back to normal today - Kate had a very restful day with Paula, drinking coffee at the Blue Duck.
The rest of the week should be very sociable, with lots of coffee and cake and not too much effort!
The rest of the week should be very sociable, with lots of coffee and cake and not too much effort!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
10 April
We are having a very quiet week-end, with the boys doing school projects today and Kate resting on the couch. She was feeling very sore yesterday, just recovering now and things seem to be getting a little better.
Peter loved the rugby although the Force was 'pooned' (Peter vocabulary) by the Waratahs!
Peter loved the rugby although the Force was 'pooned' (Peter vocabulary) by the Waratahs!
Friday, April 8, 2011
8 April
Kate is home tonight - David and I fetched her from the hospital after she finished her third course of chemo. We are all watching a movie together - as good as it gets! She is much better than last time around, not nearly as ill. Hopefully this will make the next treatment week easier to anticipate.
We will take it very easy on the week-end, except for Peter who has a tennis tournament and soccer on Saturday. Hopefully the dip will not be severe and we can move on and have a normal existence for the next two weeks!
We will take it very easy on the week-end, except for Peter who has a tennis tournament and soccer on Saturday. Hopefully the dip will not be severe and we can move on and have a normal existence for the next two weeks!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
7 April
Only one more day left in this chemo cycle. Hopefully tomorrow the chemo can happen early and then Katy can be discharged and come home late afternoon. She was feeling very down today, the last two days are usually the worst.
Once she is home, we wait another 24-48 hours for the chemo drugs to leave the system and return back to a more normal state of being.
Once she is home, we wait another 24-48 hours for the chemo drugs to leave the system and return back to a more normal state of being.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
6 April
We are tipping the see-saw, we are over the hump, it is all the way down hill form here as we are now 52% complete!
Kate was quite chirpy today but the chemo is again starting to impact and the next few days will be a struggle. She is reading her kindle very slowly, trying to keep going at least a little bit while the chemo takes its course.
Peter and David visited her in hospital today, they so miss their mum. It was the highlight of their day, although David entered with trepidation initially and was keen to stay for only a few minutes.
Going to the Rugby on Saturday with Pete in the corporate box - that should be a real treat! Will need to arrange some 'Force' jerseys and hats.
Kate was quite chirpy today but the chemo is again starting to impact and the next few days will be a struggle. She is reading her kindle very slowly, trying to keep going at least a little bit while the chemo takes its course.
Peter and David visited her in hospital today, they so miss their mum. It was the highlight of their day, although David entered with trepidation initially and was keen to stay for only a few minutes.
Going to the Rugby on Saturday with Pete in the corporate box - that should be a real treat! Will need to arrange some 'Force' jerseys and hats.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
5 April
48% done and the pink stuff is finished for this week.
We are not loving being back in hospital but the time is going fast.
No adverse reaction so far, other than the usual nausea and feeling grotty.
We are not loving being back in hospital but the time is going fast.
No adverse reaction so far, other than the usual nausea and feeling grotty.
Monday, April 4, 2011
4 April
44% done with the chemo today - looking forward to tipping the scale! The horrible pink drugs are always administered on days 1 and 2; these are responsible for losing one's hair. So it is a relief once Wednesday arrives and there are no more pink drugs.
Kate is putting on a brave face in anticipation of feeling ill for the rest of the week. Today she was quite upbeat and we talked about the wonderful week-end we had at the beach with the boys and our friends.
The hair is progressively thinning, with eyebrows not being unscathed and looking less and less visible as the chemo continues. It is a nasty process.
Kate is looking forward to having a prosthesis fitted soon. Especially in winter it will help the appearance and hopefully it will also help with the phantom pain which is still present.
Kate is putting on a brave face in anticipation of feeling ill for the rest of the week. Today she was quite upbeat and we talked about the wonderful week-end we had at the beach with the boys and our friends.
The hair is progressively thinning, with eyebrows not being unscathed and looking less and less visible as the chemo continues. It is a nasty process.
Kate is looking forward to having a prosthesis fitted soon. Especially in winter it will help the appearance and hopefully it will also help with the phantom pain which is still present.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
3 April 2011
Sunday night, Kate's mum Margaret has left now after almost three months in Perth. She has been an amazing pillar of strength to us all. We miss her already.
Tomorrow Kate goes into hospital for chemo session 3 out of five. Definitely starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel here! Although the thought of having to go back onto anti nausea, anti constipation and other anti medicines is daunting...
Paula Tolksdorff has arrived from Joburg to stay with us for two weeks, keep Kate company, take the boys to school etc. while Kate is in hospital. We are so lucky to have such wonderful friends. Thank you also to the school moms for re-initiating provision of dinners while Kate is in hospital and in recovery once she is discharged.
Tomorrow Kate goes into hospital for chemo session 3 out of five. Definitely starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel here! Although the thought of having to go back onto anti nausea, anti constipation and other anti medicines is daunting...
Paula Tolksdorff has arrived from Joburg to stay with us for two weeks, keep Kate company, take the boys to school etc. while Kate is in hospital. We are so lucky to have such wonderful friends. Thank you also to the school moms for re-initiating provision of dinners while Kate is in hospital and in recovery once she is discharged.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
20 March
Kate was up and about today after spending most of yesterday horizontal. So it seems that the effects of the chemo are wearing off, which is great news!
She went for a drive this morning for the first time in her modified car. While it will take a bit of getting used to driving with one hand, independence has been restored, a great outcome only 6 weeks after the surgery.
We are all hoping she will remain relatively well and the next two weeks will be uneventful.
She went for a drive this morning for the first time in her modified car. While it will take a bit of getting used to driving with one hand, independence has been restored, a great outcome only 6 weeks after the surgery.
We are all hoping she will remain relatively well and the next two weeks will be uneventful.
Friday, March 18, 2011
18 March
Kate is home today, very ill, the chemo has taken its toll.
Thankfully we have two weeks to recover now.
Thankfully we have two weeks to recover now.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
17 March
Four down, one to go and we are 36% there, more than a third of the way.
Kate is feeling exhausted by the chemo treatment and too tired for visitors. It does take a huge toll. But the nausea has stayed away so far and this set of treatments has been far easier than the last set.
Discharge from hospital is planned for Friday afternoon, once the final treatment of this 5-day block is complete.
We are hoping the recovery will be swift and that the next two weeks before the next treatment starts will be back to normal. The car has been adapted and the new license received in the mail, so as soon as she feels up to it she can start driving again.
Kate is feeling exhausted by the chemo treatment and too tired for visitors. It does take a huge toll. But the nausea has stayed away so far and this set of treatments has been far easier than the last set.
Discharge from hospital is planned for Friday afternoon, once the final treatment of this 5-day block is complete.
We are hoping the recovery will be swift and that the next two weeks before the next treatment starts will be back to normal. The car has been adapted and the new license received in the mail, so as soon as she feels up to it she can start driving again.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
15 March 2011
28% done with the chemo after day 2 of session 2. Almost a third of the way there!
This week has been much easier than the first chemo week. The lower dosage and increased nausea medicine have made things much more manageable. It looks like they 'oveercooked' her the first time around!
Unfortunately, she is not feeling up to having visitors just yet. Hopefully the recovery time will be much quicker than after the last session.
We are just so glad that it is so much easier this time around. What a relief, as we were all very anxious going into this week.
This week has been much easier than the first chemo week. The lower dosage and increased nausea medicine have made things much more manageable. It looks like they 'oveercooked' her the first time around!
Unfortunately, she is not feeling up to having visitors just yet. Hopefully the recovery time will be much quicker than after the last session.
We are just so glad that it is so much easier this time around. What a relief, as we were all very anxious going into this week.
Monday, March 14, 2011
14 March
24% down on the chemo. Kate was re-admitted to Hollywood hospital today (very appropriate name - they show James Bond movies on the TV) and had her first set of chemo of week 2.
The dosage is lower this time so hopefully the impact won't be as severe as the previous time. Also, they have pre-administered some serious anti nausea medicine.
Kate had a 'pic line' inserted to avoid having needles stuck into her arm. This provides a semi permanent entryway for the intravenous drugs.
She was quite happy today and the nurses were very familiar and happy, so it is a friendly environment. We are holding thumbs that this week will be easy!
The dosage is lower this time so hopefully the impact won't be as severe as the previous time. Also, they have pre-administered some serious anti nausea medicine.
Kate had a 'pic line' inserted to avoid having needles stuck into her arm. This provides a semi permanent entryway for the intravenous drugs.
She was quite happy today and the nurses were very familiar and happy, so it is a friendly environment. We are holding thumbs that this week will be easy!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
12 March
Kate made a wonderful curry dinner using the newly acquired thermo-mix today. This is an amazing machine that cooks and mixes all in one at the push of a few buttons. Ideal for our situation.
I think we will be able to cope perfectly well, one arm notwithstanding. As long as everyone helps a bit in the kitchen (chopping onions and peeling garlic is a little hard with one hand) it should be fine. The boys are very helpful, with Peter chopping vegetables and David laying the table.
The phantom pain seems to be easing periodically now, at least during the day. Hopefully it will gradually decline... that would make life a whole lot more pleasant.
Off to watch the clarinet concerto tonight - Peter's main instrument (he also plays the saxophone!). Hopefully also some violins, which are David's favourite.
I think we will be able to cope perfectly well, one arm notwithstanding. As long as everyone helps a bit in the kitchen (chopping onions and peeling garlic is a little hard with one hand) it should be fine. The boys are very helpful, with Peter chopping vegetables and David laying the table.
The phantom pain seems to be easing periodically now, at least during the day. Hopefully it will gradually decline... that would make life a whole lot more pleasant.
Off to watch the clarinet concerto tonight - Peter's main instrument (he also plays the saxophone!). Hopefully also some violins, which are David's favourite.
Friday, March 11, 2011
11 March
Kate passed her driver's license test today. A huge step to living independently again! The car needs some minor modifications - a knob on the steering wheel and some electronic gadgets for the indicators / windscreen wipers - and then she is ready to drive again. What a relief!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
9 March
The hair is gone now, as was expected about two weeks after the first chemo session. We have already gotten used to the 'GI Jane' look underneath the beautiful wig that looks very natural and pretty.
Went for a driving lesson today - hopefully have the license test on Friday, bureaucrats willing. That will be a great step towards regaining independence!
The phantom limb is still ever present; two days ago, the pins and needles disappeared for a whole afternoon. We are hoping that they will disappear for longer and longer intervals and vanish completely eventually. Kate is continuing with the mirror box on a daily basis as it affords much relief.
We are not looking forward to next week - next set of chemo - trying to enjoy the chemo free time in the meantime.
Went for a driving lesson today - hopefully have the license test on Friday, bureaucrats willing. That will be a great step towards regaining independence!
The phantom limb is still ever present; two days ago, the pins and needles disappeared for a whole afternoon. We are hoping that they will disappear for longer and longer intervals and vanish completely eventually. Kate is continuing with the mirror box on a daily basis as it affords much relief.
We are not looking forward to next week - next set of chemo - trying to enjoy the chemo free time in the meantime.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
6 March
Back home now, Kate was released from hospital late last night. Hoping for a hospital free week this week! and then re-admission for the next set of chemo week after next.
Went for a lovely walk down to the river with Margaret this morning. Out to lunch this afternoon, stamina permitting. We are trying to do things as normally as possible under the circumstances. Kate is putting on a very brave face!
Went for a lovely walk down to the river with Margaret this morning. Out to lunch this afternoon, stamina permitting. We are trying to do things as normally as possible under the circumstances. Kate is putting on a very brave face!
Friday, March 4, 2011
5 March
Still in the hospital today and hopefully discharge tomorrow (Sunday).
Feeling fine other than a little bit of infection in the arm; hopefully that will go soon. The white blood cell count, which was close to 0 on Thursday, is improving as the body recovers from the first chemo week. Apparently this is the normal course of events.
The doctor still recommends going ahead with the second chemo treatment a week from now. However, the dose will be lightened - apparently the first treatment is always a bit of a guess and one can reduce the dose without impacting the effectiveness. We hope it will be easier the second time around.
Feeling fine other than a little bit of infection in the arm; hopefully that will go soon. The white blood cell count, which was close to 0 on Thursday, is improving as the body recovers from the first chemo week. Apparently this is the normal course of events.
The doctor still recommends going ahead with the second chemo treatment a week from now. However, the dose will be lightened - apparently the first treatment is always a bit of a guess and one can reduce the dose without impacting the effectiveness. We hope it will be easier the second time around.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
3 March
Back in hospital today, running a temperature and needing to be cautious of infections. So the doctor has ordered antibiotics and hospital stay for a few days.
Apparently this is not unusual in chemo patients, as the immune system is weakened substantially by the chemotherapy drugs.
Not a fun way to spend Thursday evening - we continue to take it one day at a time. Poor poor Kate.
Apparently this is not unusual in chemo patients, as the immune system is weakened substantially by the chemotherapy drugs.
Not a fun way to spend Thursday evening - we continue to take it one day at a time. Poor poor Kate.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
2 March
We have definitely turned the corner. Today was a very busy day, with morning tea with the ladies and lunch at the Duck.
Amazing what difference a couple of days has made, from being man down on Monday to feeling almost normal (although a bit exhausted).
Tomorrow some more OT with the mirror box therapist. The mirror box seems to have helped hugely with the phantom pain. Then Friday to see the oncologist and plan the next chemo session ... enjoying life while we are free of chemo and hospitals temporarily.
Amazing what difference a couple of days has made, from being man down on Monday to feeling almost normal (although a bit exhausted).
Tomorrow some more OT with the mirror box therapist. The mirror box seems to have helped hugely with the phantom pain. Then Friday to see the oncologist and plan the next chemo session ... enjoying life while we are free of chemo and hospitals temporarily.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
27 Feb
Much better today, the nausea is under control and the drips have been removed. Hopefully she can be discharged tomorrow morning and come home and back into the world.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
26 Feb pt 2
She is seemingly turning the corner - much better this afternoon than this morning and even ate most of her supper. Holding thumbs that the improvement continues.
Hopefully she can be discharged sooner rather than later.
Hopefully she can be discharged sooner rather than later.
Friday, February 25, 2011
26 Feb
We are 20% complete on the chemo and we have two weeks of respite before the next set of five treatments is due to start.
Kate has not taken well to the chemo at all and she is still in hospital this monring, v ill. We hope she can return home today but she will stay there until she feels vaguely better. The nausea is debilitating.
I am not sure whether she can stand another week like this one. Her body seems to react extremely poorly to chemicals. I am hoping it is a sign that it is working and any residual cancer, if it is there, will vanish.
Despite being so ill, she looks full of colour adn she still has all her hair. Apparently that is lost during the next two weeks. What a tough journey she is on.
Kate has not taken well to the chemo at all and she is still in hospital this monring, v ill. We hope she can return home today but she will stay there until she feels vaguely better. The nausea is debilitating.
I am not sure whether she can stand another week like this one. Her body seems to react extremely poorly to chemicals. I am hoping it is a sign that it is working and any residual cancer, if it is there, will vanish.
Despite being so ill, she looks full of colour adn she still has all her hair. Apparently that is lost during the next two weeks. What a tough journey she is on.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
23 Feb
12% there with the chemo, after we finished session 3 today!
Kate is feeling v sick but on the bright side, we are making progress with the treatment and the nausea has been brought under control.
She will remain in hospital for the rest of this week to complete the first treatment course.
Kate is feeling v sick but on the bright side, we are making progress with the treatment and the nausea has been brought under control.
She will remain in hospital for the rest of this week to complete the first treatment course.
Monday, February 21, 2011
22 Feb
Chemo has not been as easy as anticipated. The combination of the chemo drugs and painkillers resulted in uncontrollable nausea. A restless night and Kate was admitted to hospital this morning.
The nausea was much better by lunchtime today and hopefully can be controlled going forward. There is special anti nausea medication at the hopital. Having it kick in was like coming back to the living!
The first Chemo course is for five days and we plan to stay in hospital for this. So we will most likely spend the rest of the week there. Much more controlled than home. We may continue with the chemo today or otherwise tomorrow
The phantom limb pain remains - unfortunately we had an appointment with the pain clinic tomorrow but it now looks like this may not be possible, as Kate is not mobile at the moment.
One chemo treatment day down, 24 to go. So we are 4% there already. We continue to look for the light at the end of the tunnel!
The nausea was much better by lunchtime today and hopefully can be controlled going forward. There is special anti nausea medication at the hopital. Having it kick in was like coming back to the living!
The first Chemo course is for five days and we plan to stay in hospital for this. So we will most likely spend the rest of the week there. Much more controlled than home. We may continue with the chemo today or otherwise tomorrow
The phantom limb pain remains - unfortunately we had an appointment with the pain clinic tomorrow but it now looks like this may not be possible, as Kate is not mobile at the moment.
One chemo treatment day down, 24 to go. So we are 4% there already. We continue to look for the light at the end of the tunnel!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
20 Feb 2011
We are starting the chemo tomorrow. First session is four hours, after that three hours a day for another four days. After that, two weeks recovery.
Then start again, repeat five times.
The oncologist reckons it will not be too bad, Kate can continue to function almost normally. Certainly hope so! At least once it is started, there is an end point in sight.
The pain is still excruciating at times but at other times it seems to be getting better. Still on about six pain killers. It has been two and a half weeks now, too much pain for too long.
The mirror box seems to be working quite well. Amazing, it is quite low tech, just a box with a hole and a mirror stuck to the side but it is sufficient to trick the brain into thinking the phantom limb can be relaxed somewhat.
Brother Dave left today, it was fantastic to have him for a week. He cheered everyone up and helped a lot with the house and the boys. Loved the wide mouth frog joke ...
Then start again, repeat five times.
The oncologist reckons it will not be too bad, Kate can continue to function almost normally. Certainly hope so! At least once it is started, there is an end point in sight.
The pain is still excruciating at times but at other times it seems to be getting better. Still on about six pain killers. It has been two and a half weeks now, too much pain for too long.
The mirror box seems to be working quite well. Amazing, it is quite low tech, just a box with a hole and a mirror stuck to the side but it is sufficient to trick the brain into thinking the phantom limb can be relaxed somewhat.
Brother Dave left today, it was fantastic to have him for a week. He cheered everyone up and helped a lot with the house and the boys. Loved the wide mouth frog joke ...
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
16 Feb 2011
Great news from the surgeon today - the pathology performed on Kate's arm indicated the arm did not show any secondary sarcoma. This is a strong indication that the sarcoma was caught early and had not yet spread.
The surgeon remains convinced that the amputation was necessary as the sarcoma is likely to have come back. Having got rid of it, we are hopeful the loss of the arm will prove worthwhile.
The pain is still intolerable and so the surgeon has prescribed some different pain killers - all up, Kate has a prescription for seven different pills now! It will be a challenge to eat them all but hopefully the pain will come under control as a result. She is looking decidedly zonked.
Chemo could start as soon as next week if the pain is under control by then - we are in no hurry though and the most important thing is for Kate to have some relief from the pain first.
Time for a little celebration of the sarcoma free pathology - great to have some good news.
The surgeon remains convinced that the amputation was necessary as the sarcoma is likely to have come back. Having got rid of it, we are hopeful the loss of the arm will prove worthwhile.
The pain is still intolerable and so the surgeon has prescribed some different pain killers - all up, Kate has a prescription for seven different pills now! It will be a challenge to eat them all but hopefully the pain will come under control as a result. She is looking decidedly zonked.
Chemo could start as soon as next week if the pain is under control by then - we are in no hurry though and the most important thing is for Kate to have some relief from the pain first.
Time for a little celebration of the sarcoma free pathology - great to have some good news.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
15 Feb
Another busy day, with a make-up workshop in the morning and book club in the evening!
The pain seems to have increased over the week-end and early this week. It takes time for the operation to heal, it has not yet been two weeks. It would be nice to have a more effective pain killer though!
Follow up appointment with the surgeon tomorrow - perhaps he can make a suggestion for dealing with the pain more effectively.
It is wonderful to have brother Dave here for the week. He cheers everyone up and the boys love playing with him. Yesterday he took them to a cricket workshop where they met Adam Gilchrist and other Aussie cricket stars. What a great uncle thing to do!
The pain seems to have increased over the week-end and early this week. It takes time for the operation to heal, it has not yet been two weeks. It would be nice to have a more effective pain killer though!
Follow up appointment with the surgeon tomorrow - perhaps he can make a suggestion for dealing with the pain more effectively.
It is wonderful to have brother Dave here for the week. He cheers everyone up and the boys love playing with him. Yesterday he took them to a cricket workshop where they met Adam Gilchrist and other Aussie cricket stars. What a great uncle thing to do!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
13 Feb
For the first time, the phantom limb sensation seems to abate at times. At other times, it still feels as though the pinkie is put into a vice like grip - ouch. Hopefully it will become easier. it has only been ten days since the operation.
Kate's Dad left today but brother Dave is here for the week to keep us company. Fantastic to have him.
Kate received a wonderful gift of letters and music from the Carcenacs today, very much appreciated.
Martin plans to return to work tomorrow as we continue to 'normalise' our life.
Kate's Dad left today but brother Dave is here for the week to keep us company. Fantastic to have him.
Kate received a wonderful gift of letters and music from the Carcenacs today, very much appreciated.
Martin plans to return to work tomorrow as we continue to 'normalise' our life.
Friday, February 11, 2011
12 Feb
We had a lovely morning at the Blue Duck with Kate's dad, mom and brother Dave who is here for the week from Hong Kong. Kate's first excursion after the operation and she did very well.
The pain is still acute so Kate has increased the frequency of painkillers. Better to keep it under control as much as we can. We are looking forward to the mirror box therapy which is scheduled for next week, to combat the phantom limb sensation.
Kate has made contact with another person who has had an amputation; four-limbed councellors and psychologists are helpful to talk to; however, someone who has gone through a similar experience may be able to share valuable insights / coping tips.
It feels like life continues to return to normal. It is lovely to have all the family here. Wish it were under less trying circumstances.
The pain is still acute so Kate has increased the frequency of painkillers. Better to keep it under control as much as we can. We are looking forward to the mirror box therapy which is scheduled for next week, to combat the phantom limb sensation.
Kate has made contact with another person who has had an amputation; four-limbed councellors and psychologists are helpful to talk to; however, someone who has gone through a similar experience may be able to share valuable insights / coping tips.
It feels like life continues to return to normal. It is lovely to have all the family here. Wish it were under less trying circumstances.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
10 Feb
We went to physio today to mobilise the shoulder.
It has been a week now since the operation and Kate has done fantastically well to be home so soon. However, it will take a long time to heal completely.
Today was a more difficult day than yesterday, following all yesterday's excitement (Independent Living Centre, appointment with the OT, doctor appointment). The pain is still acute and the 'phantom limb' remains very disconcerting.
Tomorrow will be a very slow, restful day.
It has been a week now since the operation and Kate has done fantastically well to be home so soon. However, it will take a long time to heal completely.
Today was a more difficult day than yesterday, following all yesterday's excitement (Independent Living Centre, appointment with the OT, doctor appointment). The pain is still acute and the 'phantom limb' remains very disconcerting.
Tomorrow will be a very slow, restful day.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
9 Feb 2011
Kate is feeling much better today after having slept for a full night at home.
She went to her niece's birthday party yesterday for a short while which was very brave and all the family were glad to see her.
Peter has taken mum's new look in his stride fully. As long as mum wears a sleeve so you can't see the bandage she is even allowed to fetch him from school! What a grown up boy he is becoming.
David is yet to adjust to the new look; he prefers to look at the missing arm from afar. He thinks that it is a little sad that the tumour was not benign (his words).
Thankfully the Independent Living Center assisted with the car modifications, so renewing the drivers license seems in hand. Very important to restore independence. Modifying the car and obtaining a new license shoudl hopefull not take much more than a few weeks.
Resting this afternoon as the morning was busy with friends visiting and there is still pain to be managed. But we are improving every day now.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
8 Feb - she is home today
Kate is home today!
She had a difficult night at the hospital last night and so decided to come home instead and get some rest! The four hourly pulse check turned out to be too strenuous, as one could never have a full night's sleep.
This morning, the doctor re-dressed the arm and gave her the go ahead to check out. He is very pleased with her progress. Kate is healing beautifully and the doctor did a fantastic job under the circumstances.
She is full of beans and was ready to come home. The boys are very glad to have her back and they have been very accepting of their new look mum. Having the operation over is a major step forward.
Now we can concentrate on adjusting our lives, such as re-equipping the kitchen (a thermo-mix is recommended) and modifying the car. A turning knob on the steering wheel is recommended - someone suggested a champagne cork and a nail could do the trick, do-it-yourself style; on second thoughts, we may need to take it to the workshop to have it modified professionally.
She had a difficult night at the hospital last night and so decided to come home instead and get some rest! The four hourly pulse check turned out to be too strenuous, as one could never have a full night's sleep.
This morning, the doctor re-dressed the arm and gave her the go ahead to check out. He is very pleased with her progress. Kate is healing beautifully and the doctor did a fantastic job under the circumstances.
She is full of beans and was ready to come home. The boys are very glad to have her back and they have been very accepting of their new look mum. Having the operation over is a major step forward.
Now we can concentrate on adjusting our lives, such as re-equipping the kitchen (a thermo-mix is recommended) and modifying the car. A turning knob on the steering wheel is recommended - someone suggested a champagne cork and a nail could do the trick, do-it-yourself style; on second thoughts, we may need to take it to the workshop to have it modified professionally.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Update 7 Feb
Much better today, as the drips and tubes have come off now and Kate can move freely. It feels much more comfortable. She has perked up visibly and by the end of today showed much more energy to phone and see friends and family. Perhaps tomorrow we will take the boys up to see her.
Pain management has moved from local anaesthetic to normal pain killers (well maybe not normal - industrial strength probably a better description; however, administered by swallowing rather than drip, far preferable). Nice to remain in a zonked state for a little while still.
The trip to the Independent Living Centre planned for today has been postponed to Wednesday - too much action today, with numerous doctors / physios / OTs in attendance this morning and the afternoon spent resting.
The phantom limb sensation remains; according to the pain management experts, the progress of it seems normal, with the pain 'moving' closer to the shoulder over time. The hand feels like it is curled up and cramped and when Kate tries to extend it in her mind, she has a 'needles and pins' sensation.
The OT had an interesting suggestion involving a mirror box, by which the brain is tricked into believing the missing hand can extended by an optical illusion mirroring the right hand to the left side; Kate would put the right hand into a curled up position and then slowly extend it, while the mirror box would reflect the image of this to the left side and the brain would see the left hand being extended. We wait and see - perhaps we will try this next week if the phantom limb sensation persists.
The surgeon remains very pleased with progress. Possible release date is still the latter half of the week.
Kate continues to show huge courage and this gives us confidence she will resume a full life sooner rather than later. She is starting to anticipate the next stage - chemo - with some apprehension - thankfully still some weeks to go until we start chemo.
Pain management has moved from local anaesthetic to normal pain killers (well maybe not normal - industrial strength probably a better description; however, administered by swallowing rather than drip, far preferable). Nice to remain in a zonked state for a little while still.
The trip to the Independent Living Centre planned for today has been postponed to Wednesday - too much action today, with numerous doctors / physios / OTs in attendance this morning and the afternoon spent resting.
The phantom limb sensation remains; according to the pain management experts, the progress of it seems normal, with the pain 'moving' closer to the shoulder over time. The hand feels like it is curled up and cramped and when Kate tries to extend it in her mind, she has a 'needles and pins' sensation.
The OT had an interesting suggestion involving a mirror box, by which the brain is tricked into believing the missing hand can extended by an optical illusion mirroring the right hand to the left side; Kate would put the right hand into a curled up position and then slowly extend it, while the mirror box would reflect the image of this to the left side and the brain would see the left hand being extended. We wait and see - perhaps we will try this next week if the phantom limb sensation persists.
The surgeon remains very pleased with progress. Possible release date is still the latter half of the week.
Kate continues to show huge courage and this gives us confidence she will resume a full life sooner rather than later. She is starting to anticipate the next stage - chemo - with some apprehension - thankfully still some weeks to go until we start chemo.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Update 6 Feb 2011
Kate's recovery is going well although the 'phantom limb' sensation is still strong and disconcerting. She is 'feeling' pain, pins and needles and cramp in the hand and arm that are no longer there. This will most likely take time to disappear, as the brain is hard wired to expect nerve impulses from the fingers, hand and arm.
The doctor visited this afternoon and was satisfied with progress. He thought Kate is doing extremely well under the circumstances. She is resting well now after initially struggling to sleep.
There are a number of hurdles to clear before leaving the hospital, such as being weaned off the local anaesthetic and starting physiotherpay (planned for Monday). The doctor has indicated that it will take as long as it takes, there is no hurry. The earliest possible discharge date will be the latter half of this week.
Kate's dad arrived this morning from Joburg and she was happy to spend the morning chatting. Her cousin also arrived back from his travels today and spent time with her. Having the family and friends close gives huge comfort to Kate.
We are so grateful for all the support and messages from our friends and family.
The doctor visited this afternoon and was satisfied with progress. He thought Kate is doing extremely well under the circumstances. She is resting well now after initially struggling to sleep.
There are a number of hurdles to clear before leaving the hospital, such as being weaned off the local anaesthetic and starting physiotherpay (planned for Monday). The doctor has indicated that it will take as long as it takes, there is no hurry. The earliest possible discharge date will be the latter half of this week.
Kate's dad arrived this morning from Joburg and she was happy to spend the morning chatting. Her cousin also arrived back from his travels today and spent time with her. Having the family and friends close gives huge comfort to Kate.
We are so grateful for all the support and messages from our friends and family.
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