October 29, 2009

Paul testing our his new lift and scooter for the van. He tried it out twice this week and it is working great for him - breathing better and not getting so tired after appointments, etc.

Yesterday he had his PFT (pulmonary function test) and much improved since last time - February. Pulmonary Doctor is pleased with how he is doing. Losing weight has definitely helped breathing and getting around.

Medications staying the same for the COPD.

Next week is ct scan and oncologist - keeping fingers crossed for the best news!

October 5,2010

Yesterday Paul had his EMG test for neuropathy. The doctor said he has mild neuropathy and should not worry about it. Right now she gave him some Lidocaine cream which helps with the pain in his toes and it is helping a lot.

Paul drove to the VA (that is about 25 miles of city traffic and back. He did just fine. The new van is easy to drive. We stopped for a little lunch/dinner. A good day all around.

This morning his primary care NP called from his vacation to see that he remembered to get his blood test and check the potassium level. They really take good care of him at the VA hospital.

Paul ready to go to the doctors or wherever I will drive him!

We love the van and the lift for the scooter (which he got yesterday) will be installed soon. It will help make his trips to the VA hospital much better as well as parks, malls, etc.

Paul has lost weight but finally gotten his appetite back for most food so he is doing ok. Potassium pills are helping as his was low.

EMG (nerve tests) next Monday to see about his neuropathy and maybe some treatment options.

We are doing ok - one day at a time!

September 19, 2010

Paul was approved for a scooter like this and we bought a minivan yesterday - getting it soon - that will fit inside with a lift. Should make it easier for him to get around stores, hospital, etc.

He is gaining strength but losing weight - today he ate better so soon should be back to better weight.

Nothing much else going on - just enjoying Fall in CNY!!

Next report after some more tests, etc.

Update....September 2, 2010

Well, all is going pretty good as far as cancer is concerned. Paul was in hospital with pneumonia a couple weeks ago and is weak but gaining slowly. He has tried the fentanyl patch for pain in his back for two weeks now and is having too many side effects. Intends to get off the patch as soon as his doctor recommends what to do then - avoiding withdrawal, etc.
We are not enjoying the hot weather and it is suppose to be cooler this weekend.
Ct scan on lungs in November so until then just hanging out and trying to stay on our feet!

July 30, 2010

Here we are at Morgan and Matt's wedding on July 10, 2010...it was very nice!

Today we got the news of the recent ct scan and all remains about same - words of the oncologist.

Last week the NP for cardiology said Paul was "very" stable as far as congestive heart failure and his heart condition!

One day at a time and enjoying this beautiful summer weather.

Next week is my turn at the orthopedic surgeon about a knee replacement!

June 24, 2010

Short update on latest visit to VA. Paul saw cardiologist NP and he says Paul is "stable" as far as CHF is concerned. Pacemaker is now working great. All vitals good.

He saw vascular doctor who operated on his aorta aneursym 4 years ago. Doctor said all is ok and no signs of a new aneursym which sometimes happens about 4 years out.

So - for now - STABLE and under control.