So good to finally have a quiet moment to sit with you and visit for a while. Unfortunately, I did get caught up in the busy rush that begins the week before Thanksgiving and does not end until after Christmas.
First I would like to bring you up to date about Lee. He continues to do very well! There have, however, been a couple of small "bumps in the road" since I last blogged. Probably best to just list:
1. The last Saturday in October, we enjoyed a visit to Hart's Square. You can find all the information on their website: Hartsquare.com. A great place to enjoy a lovely Fall afternoon. It is a reconstructed village from the 1800's and is located only four miles from our house. We had a wonderful time exploring all of the 93 reconstructed original buildings and the tours from people dressed in that period who were even demonstrating their skills such as candle-making, spinning yarn, baking, cooking, cotton press, and even a civil war reenactment.
There were over 3000 people there and Lee and I stayed a long time. Unfortunately, a few days later, we both were stricken with a type of flu. I was over it in a week. Not so with Lee...;we had to call Duke, he saw his local physician, and after two rounds of antibiotics, he finally recovered completely in five weeks! Now we know how his lowered immunity is such a handicap in infectious diseases! We have tried to be more cautious lately.
2. Lee continues to have precancerous lesions on his face, scalp and neck. These have been aggressively attacked with liquid nitrogen and biopsies by his faithful and deligent dermatologist. Right now we are awaiting the results of six biopsies taken last week.
So................other than that, our lives are wonderful. We are looking forward to Christmas with all our family. It will be different this year and will last until the 28th of December. Our plans are to have Christmas Eve here with my children and grandchildren. The Kanipe kids will plan to celebrate here on the Eve of December 27th. I suppose this is good because it gives us a recovery period between one large group and the next large group. Our family has grown to include married grandchildren and now two great grandchildren. Having two separate gatherings allows us to enjoy them more, and another advantage is that smaller crowds are better as we age!
The house is fully decorated, the freezer is packed with anticipated meals, all the gifts are wrapped.............and I do have one more shopping trip to make!
Lee and I wish for each of you,
A very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!
More Later..............................Brenda
Monday, December 17, 2012
Friday, November 16, 2012
Just Before Thanksgiving
The Holidays are upon us! How grateful we are to be here and to look forward to welcoming family on Thanksgiving day! Our family is large, and there are other families involved, so we will not have all of our children and grandchildren here. Today, Lee and I put two leafs in the dining room table and it is now ready to seat fourteen. I know for sure that there will be twelve of us seated at that table, and there is a possibility that as many as five more will show, bringing the total to seventeen! We can, as we have done many times spill over into another area, or close the space tighter and add more chairs!
There was once a time when having seventeen or more would always involve three tables. One in the dining area, one in the breakfast area, and one in the sunroom. This year I was thinking that would be the seating again, until grandaughter, Lillie, visited me a week ago. She asked if I would be seating everyone at a long table this year like I do on Christmas Eve. I realized that she had outgrown the "kids Korner" seating, and was in a casual way letting me know how much she enjoyed being seated with the entire group.
It has been the custom in our family (begun by daughter, Julia) to review the true story of the pilgrams in the 1600's. Julia will remind Greg to read the descriptions of the harsh winter, the starvation that followed and the many hardships our forefathers endured. We will try once again to grasp how difficult it must have been, even though it is hard to understand in view of our own wealth of comfortable housing, abundant food and the life we have in this modern digital age. We do need to remember that we have these things because our forefathers and their families were courageous enough to come to a new land where they could be free. Lee will lead in the grateful blessing, and we will include a silent thankfullness from our hearts for him as we listen to his prayer.
So, this Thanksgiving, thanks to Lillie, we will all be at the same table. That is a good thing too. We will enjoy the food that has been prepared and served by all participating. Everyone will be able to contribute in some way as we gather around the long table. Someone always has an announcement to make or a memory to commemorate. We will remember those whose absence will remind us of another time when our table was filled with their family. We will eat too much turkey, sweet potato koogle, vegetables, cranberry salad, and of course will top it off with either apple pie, pecan pie, or pumpkin pie. By the end of the meal we will all be miserable! The teens will go to the downstairs to play a game of pool or weather permitting, will enjoy being outside. Greg, Cathy and Julia will take their usual afternoon stroll around the drive, and the rest of us will suffer from our vantage point of the recliner, sofa or too comfortable chair. The guys will tune in to the football game, and as soon as we can, Donna, Julia, Cathy and I will tackle the mountain of dishes, etc....
Until next blog..................Happy Thanksgiving and Blessings to you all..............
More Later...........................Brenda...
There was once a time when having seventeen or more would always involve three tables. One in the dining area, one in the breakfast area, and one in the sunroom. This year I was thinking that would be the seating again, until grandaughter, Lillie, visited me a week ago. She asked if I would be seating everyone at a long table this year like I do on Christmas Eve. I realized that she had outgrown the "kids Korner" seating, and was in a casual way letting me know how much she enjoyed being seated with the entire group.
It has been the custom in our family (begun by daughter, Julia) to review the true story of the pilgrams in the 1600's. Julia will remind Greg to read the descriptions of the harsh winter, the starvation that followed and the many hardships our forefathers endured. We will try once again to grasp how difficult it must have been, even though it is hard to understand in view of our own wealth of comfortable housing, abundant food and the life we have in this modern digital age. We do need to remember that we have these things because our forefathers and their families were courageous enough to come to a new land where they could be free. Lee will lead in the grateful blessing, and we will include a silent thankfullness from our hearts for him as we listen to his prayer.
So, this Thanksgiving, thanks to Lillie, we will all be at the same table. That is a good thing too. We will enjoy the food that has been prepared and served by all participating. Everyone will be able to contribute in some way as we gather around the long table. Someone always has an announcement to make or a memory to commemorate. We will remember those whose absence will remind us of another time when our table was filled with their family. We will eat too much turkey, sweet potato koogle, vegetables, cranberry salad, and of course will top it off with either apple pie, pecan pie, or pumpkin pie. By the end of the meal we will all be miserable! The teens will go to the downstairs to play a game of pool or weather permitting, will enjoy being outside. Greg, Cathy and Julia will take their usual afternoon stroll around the drive, and the rest of us will suffer from our vantage point of the recliner, sofa or too comfortable chair. The guys will tune in to the football game, and as soon as we can, Donna, Julia, Cathy and I will tackle the mountain of dishes, etc....
Until next blog..................Happy Thanksgiving and Blessings to you all..............
More Later...........................Brenda...
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Master of Ceremonies
Looking back over this blog and the newest picture of Lee, I realize that I should explain the circumstances surrounding that fine looking gentleman in the photo.
This picture was made on Saturday evening, September 15 at son Greg's 50th birthday bash! You may have seen the pictures on my facebook and also on daughter Julia Knight's facebook page. Greg's super wife, Cathy surprised him with a "Club 50" party in his honor at the community house in Morganton. The community house had been decorated to look like a New York nightclub in the 1950's. The decor was in black and white with red accents. Pictures of Greg in a tux had been framed and were hanging on the walls. The tables were skirted with long white tablecloths and the centerpieces were long-stemmed red roses. Pictures of Greg at various stages of his life filled each table. Our teen-age children functioned as waiters and Lillie, age 14 was resplendent in her short tux attire with red bowtie and top hat!
Following a catered meal, we were entertained by music from Grandaughter, Michaela, 16 as she sang and accompanied herself with her guitar with music from the 1950's. Lee was selected to introduce a special guest from the past, Marilyn Monroe, alias, Cathy's sister, Linda. She made her grand entrance in her slinky, fitted gown, fur stole, lovely blond wig and long cigarette holder as she stopped at each table to embrace friends. Her rendition of "Happy Birthday" Mr. Gregory was sexy and reminescent of long ago when Marilyn sang to then President John F Kennedy!
So now you know........Lee was part of this memorable party, and in addition to introducing "Marilyn", he enjoyed throwing a few over-the-hill jokes Greg's way. All this from our amazing Lee, who two and one-half years ago could not walk more than twenty feet without oxygen. Truly, a miracle man!
More Later....................................Brenda
This picture was made on Saturday evening, September 15 at son Greg's 50th birthday bash! You may have seen the pictures on my facebook and also on daughter Julia Knight's facebook page. Greg's super wife, Cathy surprised him with a "Club 50" party in his honor at the community house in Morganton. The community house had been decorated to look like a New York nightclub in the 1950's. The decor was in black and white with red accents. Pictures of Greg in a tux had been framed and were hanging on the walls. The tables were skirted with long white tablecloths and the centerpieces were long-stemmed red roses. Pictures of Greg at various stages of his life filled each table. Our teen-age children functioned as waiters and Lillie, age 14 was resplendent in her short tux attire with red bowtie and top hat!
Following a catered meal, we were entertained by music from Grandaughter, Michaela, 16 as she sang and accompanied herself with her guitar with music from the 1950's. Lee was selected to introduce a special guest from the past, Marilyn Monroe, alias, Cathy's sister, Linda. She made her grand entrance in her slinky, fitted gown, fur stole, lovely blond wig and long cigarette holder as she stopped at each table to embrace friends. Her rendition of "Happy Birthday" Mr. Gregory was sexy and reminescent of long ago when Marilyn sang to then President John F Kennedy!
So now you know........Lee was part of this memorable party, and in addition to introducing "Marilyn", he enjoyed throwing a few over-the-hill jokes Greg's way. All this from our amazing Lee, who two and one-half years ago could not walk more than twenty feet without oxygen. Truly, a miracle man!
More Later....................................Brenda
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
THE MEASURING TOOL
It sits in the corner of the room, an unassuming and odd piece of equipment. I suppose at another time I would see it as something to be removed from the room and placed in its proper storage. Today, however, I see this little piece of metal with one wheel as a symbol of hope and encouragement.
It is a simple tool, consisting of one adjustable handle that is connected to one small wheel. Located adjacent to that wheel is a small red box. A closer examination of the box reveals a small window with three separate areas. Inside the windows are numbers. This is a portable measuring device. As I gaze at this little tool that is directly in my line of vision, I am moved to tears. How can this be? It is only a tool, not alive, just sitting there propped in the corner. This tool, you will see, holds a story.
In March, 2010, Lee came home by ambulance from Duke University Hospital. He was given no hope of a lung transplant because he was too weak and debilitated. He had been sent home to die. That is what the doctors at Duke decided. Lee Kanipe did not accept that. He was determined that he would come home to walk again and then return to Duke for his lung. At that time, he could only walk 10 feet with a walker and lots of oxygen.
Thus began a journey of wills. Lee was willfully determined to walk, and I was willfully determined that he would progress with his number of feet. This little measuring tool was brought into the house from its storage place in Lee’s shop behind the house. It quickly became a visible beacon of hope to determine how close Lee could get to the 1000 feet he would have to walk to be accepted by Duke. I measured the distance from his bed to the hallway. This was the first challenge: 12 feet to the hallway, and 12 feet back again to the bed equaled 24 feet….it was a beginning. Each accomplishment ended with a new challenge: If he could walk 24 feet, he could walk 44 feet. If he could walk 44 feet, he could walk 88 feet. Each accomplishment was met with the challenge to double the walk by the end of 3 –five days. Measurements were taken with the tool, and we were able to determine exact measurements of feet to add.
It wasn’t long until the little measuring tool was used to determine how many feet it took to walk from the bedroom, through the hallway, through the living room, the kitchen, the den and back through the hallway before returning to a resting area. Within six weeks, we knew that the measured distance in the house with several turns round and round would be equivalent to 300 feet. Jubilation! At the end of each day, the measuring tool resided in the corner of the Den where it is today as I write. That little corner became known as “where the measuring device is” by the Home Health nurses, the physical therapists, the many neighbors, family members, and friends who came by to help Lee on his many daily walks.
When the weather became warmer, I measured the distance from the back door, along the driveway to his shop at the back of the house. 200 feet there and 200 feet back again. He was ready! When he could walk 800 feet as measured by this handy little tool, we were told to return to Duke to prepare for the lung transplant! You know the rest of the story………………Success!
So now you understand why I have a connection to this little tool…..a simple measuring device. It is so much more! This little tool became our hope and guide by helping us set goals. Those goals of exact footage gave us the courage to go a few steps further, to believe that the goal could be reached, and that life could return to Lee if he could just walk the number of feet that would put him on the road to recovery.
Slowly, I walked across the room and picked up the measuring tool. I carefully lowered the handle to the shortest position. I rolled the wheel and gazed lovingly into the little red box with the numbers in the windows. I couldn’t help but feel gratitude all the while knowing that it was just a little measuring tool. It has not been returned to the shop at the back of the house. This little tool deserves a special place in our home, so I placed it in the closet, grateful for the hope it inspired and contented that it now resides in its special storage corner of the hall closet.
More Later..............................Brenda
Newsy November
Wow! Where did October go? Seems the months enter briefly and whoosh, gone! This time travel at warp speed is becoming a bit overwhelming! I suppose one of the biggest surprises post- retirement is the realization that we spent so much time during our career, working years looking forward to all the time we would have in retirement. Not so! We continue to use every minute of the twenty-four hours alloted to us each day. Now we have departed October (which to us still seemed to continue to remind us of days still in late August!) Of course, you know what November has been already.....Nor Easter, Polls, Election, and we have only begun. We are fast approaching the Holidays........Whew!
In the Kanipe family, we are anxiously awaiting the birth of another great, grandchild. Oldest Kanipe grandson, Jeffrey & wife Pricilla are preparing for the birth of their first child on November 13. Lee and I watched as the moon became fuller and finally waned with no word. I suppose the old saying " when the apple is ripe, it will fall from the tree", holds true for birthing of babies! Along with that, in the Knight family, grandson, Daniel has announced his engagement to Stephanie. Not sure when the wedding will be, but the next year holds the promise of a marriage. Also, on the Herman side, nephew, Stephen and Lauren have announced their engagement and plans for a wedding in the year 2013!
Son Greg Knight, and his son, Daniel (recently engaged) will be completing their posts-graduate degree with Master's in Computer Engineering Softerware Technology from ECU in December. Our congratulations to both and good wishes toward completing their thesis on time. Donna Kanipe, Todd's wife, will be completing her second year in post-graduate toward Master's in Psychology. Wow! All our "middle-agers" are pushing forward!
My sister and her husband, ages 81 & 82, are finally getting back to a more normal life, since he had a total knee replacement on October 17. He is now in outpatient rehab, doing great, and I hope she is finally able to get some much-needed rest and sleep. She is a retired nurse, so he has been fortunate to have the great care she provided. My concern now is for her! Hopefully she will get her routine back to normal again.
Lee and I have desperately been trying to find time to return to the beach with some of our close friends. We have canceled once and now that both of us are battling this cold, therefore, we are not sure we can go anywhere before the first of the year. Lee has had little resistance to this, and it now appears to be moving into his chest. We are in touch with Duke and will keep a close watch to make sure he does not get a complication. Both of us know that being pro-active is the key to his successful recovery from a simple cold.
So many things to do since November is here, that I have to make myself slow down to keep from being overwhelmed! I know all of you are experiencing the same.....Food preparation, entertaining, enjoying family......then shopping for Christmas................decorating....Food.....entertaining....family......cleaning...cooking....baking.......
I must sit and rest a while........................
More Later...........................................Brenda
In the Kanipe family, we are anxiously awaiting the birth of another great, grandchild. Oldest Kanipe grandson, Jeffrey & wife Pricilla are preparing for the birth of their first child on November 13. Lee and I watched as the moon became fuller and finally waned with no word. I suppose the old saying " when the apple is ripe, it will fall from the tree", holds true for birthing of babies! Along with that, in the Knight family, grandson, Daniel has announced his engagement to Stephanie. Not sure when the wedding will be, but the next year holds the promise of a marriage. Also, on the Herman side, nephew, Stephen and Lauren have announced their engagement and plans for a wedding in the year 2013!
Son Greg Knight, and his son, Daniel (recently engaged) will be completing their posts-graduate degree with Master's in Computer Engineering Softerware Technology from ECU in December. Our congratulations to both and good wishes toward completing their thesis on time. Donna Kanipe, Todd's wife, will be completing her second year in post-graduate toward Master's in Psychology. Wow! All our "middle-agers" are pushing forward!
My sister and her husband, ages 81 & 82, are finally getting back to a more normal life, since he had a total knee replacement on October 17. He is now in outpatient rehab, doing great, and I hope she is finally able to get some much-needed rest and sleep. She is a retired nurse, so he has been fortunate to have the great care she provided. My concern now is for her! Hopefully she will get her routine back to normal again.
Lee and I have desperately been trying to find time to return to the beach with some of our close friends. We have canceled once and now that both of us are battling this cold, therefore, we are not sure we can go anywhere before the first of the year. Lee has had little resistance to this, and it now appears to be moving into his chest. We are in touch with Duke and will keep a close watch to make sure he does not get a complication. Both of us know that being pro-active is the key to his successful recovery from a simple cold.
So many things to do since November is here, that I have to make myself slow down to keep from being overwhelmed! I know all of you are experiencing the same.....Food preparation, entertaining, enjoying family......then shopping for Christmas................decorating....Food.....entertaining....family......cleaning...cooking....baking.......
I must sit and rest a while........................
More Later...........................................Brenda
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Storms of Life
It's been a while since I last blogged, and as usual, things are always going great when I do not write as often as I should. We have enjoyed all the lovely Fall weather, along with Lee's returning strength and endurance. It has indeed been a blessing to see him enjoying his life to the fullest. He truly does not waste time, and along with that, I try to keep up with him.
I began this blog with good news, because I love happy blogs! I write today with sadness at losing another friend post lung transplant. He died yesterday after having been home under the care of hospice since September. His wife and I became friends two years ago, having been introduced through my blog by a mutual friend of ours. Our friend did not have his lung transplant at Duke, rather at another area far from his home. He began rejecting his lung last March, just one and one-half years after his transplant. After being transferred to Duke, he and his wife, along with his family and friends had strong hopes that the rejection could be halted. It was not to be, because the rejection was too advanced. Lee and I visited them when he was at Duke and were encouraged by their prospects of hope. Unfortunately, his only alternative in August was to have another transplant. He decided against it, knowing without it, he would die in a few months. I admire his courage and his courageous decision for his family.
I share this with you to let you know how we still hang onto those sunny days. We know too well that a storm can happen at any time. That is why we continue to be aware of the wind, the soil, the contagious illnesses, even the common cold. These are our storms and we try to avoid them whenever possible. Each month we receive e-mails from others that we have been connected to since Lee's transplant. This past week has been particularly painful as we have learned of two more who have died. Their time post transplant was two and three years.
Lee is now two and one-half years post transplant. We pray each day that he will be granted a good day and be given many days on this earth. We only need to be reminded of others to know how fragile life is and how it is a gift to be enjoyed to the fullest.
The storms have raged around us this week.....a Noreaster....they say. There are people suffering throughout the U.S. We are to be reminded of so many things to be thankful for and to remember those affected by storms in our prayers. Our friend's family will make it through their storm of loss and they will remember the sunny days once again. Please remember them in your prayers.
More Later...................................Brenda
I began this blog with good news, because I love happy blogs! I write today with sadness at losing another friend post lung transplant. He died yesterday after having been home under the care of hospice since September. His wife and I became friends two years ago, having been introduced through my blog by a mutual friend of ours. Our friend did not have his lung transplant at Duke, rather at another area far from his home. He began rejecting his lung last March, just one and one-half years after his transplant. After being transferred to Duke, he and his wife, along with his family and friends had strong hopes that the rejection could be halted. It was not to be, because the rejection was too advanced. Lee and I visited them when he was at Duke and were encouraged by their prospects of hope. Unfortunately, his only alternative in August was to have another transplant. He decided against it, knowing without it, he would die in a few months. I admire his courage and his courageous decision for his family.
I share this with you to let you know how we still hang onto those sunny days. We know too well that a storm can happen at any time. That is why we continue to be aware of the wind, the soil, the contagious illnesses, even the common cold. These are our storms and we try to avoid them whenever possible. Each month we receive e-mails from others that we have been connected to since Lee's transplant. This past week has been particularly painful as we have learned of two more who have died. Their time post transplant was two and three years.
Lee is now two and one-half years post transplant. We pray each day that he will be granted a good day and be given many days on this earth. We only need to be reminded of others to know how fragile life is and how it is a gift to be enjoyed to the fullest.
The storms have raged around us this week.....a Noreaster....they say. There are people suffering throughout the U.S. We are to be reminded of so many things to be thankful for and to remember those affected by storms in our prayers. Our friend's family will make it through their storm of loss and they will remember the sunny days once again. Please remember them in your prayers.
More Later...................................Brenda
Monday, October 15, 2012
Home in Vale
We came home a few days early from our beach vacation because our daughter-in-law, Elizabeth's Mom died. She had been very sick for the past two months or more and her death at that time was expected. We were not sure about the arrangements in Knoxville, Tenn. and decided we should be in Vale to shorten the drive. After we were home, we learned that due to a family conflict of travel, it was delayed until October 13.
So it was, that this past Friday, we journed to Knoxville, Tenn. for an overnight to be with her and her Father and two sisters. After the funeral on Saturday, we were able to enjoy the Fall colors in the Great Smoky Mts and the Blue Ridge as we returned home.
Last evening, daughter Julia and her daughters, Michaela & Lillie with a friend, joined us for supper. It was good to be with them after our long vacation. The girls are growing up too fast for this Nana. Now @ 16 and 14, I feel like I am communicating with adults! And, I have to remind myself.....they really are! None-the-less, it was a lovely visit and we enjoyed the short time with them.
This week promises to be filled with many things to do, beginning with Thursday, when my sister's husband, Fred, will have a knee replacement procedure in Hickory. I plan to stay with her during that time. Doug & Elizabeth will be here Saturday. Sunday is the annual Kanipe Reunion, and Todd and Donna will be joining us for that. On Monday, my brother Jim and wife Judy will come for two overnights. Thursday, Lee and I will leave for his Duke clinic visit. We will make that a one-day trip because he is doing so well and we do not anticipate any sedation procedures.
As you can guess, I will be busy most of this week preparing for visits, and for planning of meals. We always enjoy having guests and look forward to that time together.
This is a short, catch-up blog to let you know that all is well here.....in fact, it is very normal. Lee continues to amaze me with his fortitude and his determination to continue on. This is because he still has to deal with the consequences of the anti-rejection medication which includes the weakness in his legs. He has regained much of his upper extremity strength, but the legs are the weakest. The muscles are returning.....just slowly!
All in all....................Life as we know it now is wonderful!
More Later......................................................Brenda
So it was, that this past Friday, we journed to Knoxville, Tenn. for an overnight to be with her and her Father and two sisters. After the funeral on Saturday, we were able to enjoy the Fall colors in the Great Smoky Mts and the Blue Ridge as we returned home.
Last evening, daughter Julia and her daughters, Michaela & Lillie with a friend, joined us for supper. It was good to be with them after our long vacation. The girls are growing up too fast for this Nana. Now @ 16 and 14, I feel like I am communicating with adults! And, I have to remind myself.....they really are! None-the-less, it was a lovely visit and we enjoyed the short time with them.
This week promises to be filled with many things to do, beginning with Thursday, when my sister's husband, Fred, will have a knee replacement procedure in Hickory. I plan to stay with her during that time. Doug & Elizabeth will be here Saturday. Sunday is the annual Kanipe Reunion, and Todd and Donna will be joining us for that. On Monday, my brother Jim and wife Judy will come for two overnights. Thursday, Lee and I will leave for his Duke clinic visit. We will make that a one-day trip because he is doing so well and we do not anticipate any sedation procedures.
As you can guess, I will be busy most of this week preparing for visits, and for planning of meals. We always enjoy having guests and look forward to that time together.
This is a short, catch-up blog to let you know that all is well here.....in fact, it is very normal. Lee continues to amaze me with his fortitude and his determination to continue on. This is because he still has to deal with the consequences of the anti-rejection medication which includes the weakness in his legs. He has regained much of his upper extremity strength, but the legs are the weakest. The muscles are returning.....just slowly!
All in all....................Life as we know it now is wonderful!
More Later......................................................Brenda
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
October Already!
We have been enjoying the end of September and this, the first week of October at the beach. Last week was "picture perfect", high temps in the 70's, lots of sunshine, blue skies, and very calm ocean. Fantastic! Now we are balancing the good with the "not so good", and have endured rainy, stormy, off and on again weather since Saturday night.
Lee and I both took advantage of those wonderful days to meet the goals we had established prior to coming to the beach house. My goals were to tackle a mountain of laundry that included blankets and mattress covers. With the help of Lee, I was awarded an outdoor clothesline (probably to the chagrin of neighbors) to assist me in my huge endeaver. So it was, that I entertained the neighbors with something on that new umbrella type line for five days! I was able to complete my task of 14 blankets, 10 mattress covers, and 20 pillow covers! In addition, the bright sunshine gave me the opportunity to sun 20 pillows! Whew!
Lee fulfilled his goal to fish as much as he could. As luck would have it, his good friend, Ted has been here, next door, with his fine fishing boat. Last week, Ted fished every day, and Lee joined him for two consecutive days. They hit the jackpot! There were three of them and each caught twice the allotted limit and had to throw half back in. The fishing was so good that they even became selective for the biggest and best of the lot of spanish mackeral! Lee was estatic!
This fine adventure, of course, called for a "fish fry". On Thursday evening, we invited the neighbors over and Ted and Lee cooked the fish and hush puppies, while I added the side dishes and Diane helped with serving and clean-up. We sat outsidee under the deck with the fans and the shade. It was a wonderful gathering, and such a blessing to have Lee enjoy something we never thought would be possible again.
This has been a marvelous trip to the beach. For the first time in three years, Lee has felt strong enough to do all the things he enjoys while he is here. He has been a busy fellow.......hired a house painter.............had the carpets cleaned.......................and.......................arranged for the trees to be trimmed in November! He announced last night that he will sow some grass before we leave on Monday! Even though we had an elevator chair installed in July, He has been using the stairs because he feels his strength returning! Actually, I use it more than he does for carrying in groceries, etc.
This afternoon we plan to catch the ferry to Kure beach to visit friends, Glenda and Don, from Lincolnton. They are here for another two weeks. This is their annual month-long vacation and we are looking forward to the ride and the visit. The ferry is faster ( 35 min), relaxing, and only 10 min. from their house.
So........this is what has been going on these past few weeks. My daughter, son, and two grandaughters keep calling and asking, when are we coming home? I miss them too, but seeing the joy that Lee has experienced during this beach trip does not push me to get back home until he is ready!
Tomorrow, Oct. 4, is my" baby boomer" brother, Dennis's birthday! To me, he still looks like my kid brother!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DENNIS!
More Later...............................................................Brenda
Lee and I both took advantage of those wonderful days to meet the goals we had established prior to coming to the beach house. My goals were to tackle a mountain of laundry that included blankets and mattress covers. With the help of Lee, I was awarded an outdoor clothesline (probably to the chagrin of neighbors) to assist me in my huge endeaver. So it was, that I entertained the neighbors with something on that new umbrella type line for five days! I was able to complete my task of 14 blankets, 10 mattress covers, and 20 pillow covers! In addition, the bright sunshine gave me the opportunity to sun 20 pillows! Whew!
Lee fulfilled his goal to fish as much as he could. As luck would have it, his good friend, Ted has been here, next door, with his fine fishing boat. Last week, Ted fished every day, and Lee joined him for two consecutive days. They hit the jackpot! There were three of them and each caught twice the allotted limit and had to throw half back in. The fishing was so good that they even became selective for the biggest and best of the lot of spanish mackeral! Lee was estatic!
This fine adventure, of course, called for a "fish fry". On Thursday evening, we invited the neighbors over and Ted and Lee cooked the fish and hush puppies, while I added the side dishes and Diane helped with serving and clean-up. We sat outsidee under the deck with the fans and the shade. It was a wonderful gathering, and such a blessing to have Lee enjoy something we never thought would be possible again.
This has been a marvelous trip to the beach. For the first time in three years, Lee has felt strong enough to do all the things he enjoys while he is here. He has been a busy fellow.......hired a house painter.............had the carpets cleaned.......................and.......................arranged for the trees to be trimmed in November! He announced last night that he will sow some grass before we leave on Monday! Even though we had an elevator chair installed in July, He has been using the stairs because he feels his strength returning! Actually, I use it more than he does for carrying in groceries, etc.
This afternoon we plan to catch the ferry to Kure beach to visit friends, Glenda and Don, from Lincolnton. They are here for another two weeks. This is their annual month-long vacation and we are looking forward to the ride and the visit. The ferry is faster ( 35 min), relaxing, and only 10 min. from their house.
So........this is what has been going on these past few weeks. My daughter, son, and two grandaughters keep calling and asking, when are we coming home? I miss them too, but seeing the joy that Lee has experienced during this beach trip does not push me to get back home until he is ready!
Tomorrow, Oct. 4, is my" baby boomer" brother, Dennis's birthday! To me, he still looks like my kid brother!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DENNIS!
More Later...............................................................Brenda
Friday, September 7, 2012
Simply September
I love September! This is the month that marks the end of Summer along with an occasional glimpse of the cool evenings and nights that signal the return of one of my favorite seasons of the year, Autumn. It is with eager anticipation that Lee and I look forward to the changing colors and a relief from the oppressive heat we experienced in July and August.
This month is also a reminder that at this time last year, Lee was in rejection to his new lung. Even after he had been given the strong doses of steroids, he did not respond. Almost the entire month of September 2011 was spent with visits to Duke and the very harsh treatment with RATG. How fortunate Lee was to have been able to receive the medication in the early stages of rejection. The rejection was halted, and with frequent return trips the following six months, he was declared rejection-free in March 2012.
As I type this blog, I am watching Lee from the sunroom windows as he is enjoying the outdoors. He does not stay inside during these days. He only returns for lunch (and sometimes does not do that, preferring instead to eat out with the guys). He is doing fantastic! Our lives are almost back to where they were three years ago prior to his illness in November 2009. Each day he has plans for some job to be done on the farm. He has enjoyed reaping the late Summer harvest of green beans, ocra, and peppers. I have complied by preserving any and all that he brings to me. Our freezers are filled and the shelves in the basement are filled with various canned goods. All that in addition to the honey from his hard-working "girls"in the hives.
Even though he sold his herd of black angus cattle to our neighbor, we are still able to enjoy them as they continue to reside in our pastures that the current owner of the herd leases. From my vantage point today, I can enjoy the young calves as they play, always under the watchful eye of their mothers, only a few feet away. In the distance, I see the persimmon tree, and it is beginning to show the vivid orange color of the fruit. I may even get industrious enough to make Lee some persimmon pudding this year!
Life is wonderful! We seem to be moving effortlessly from one season to the other and are eagerly anticipating the holidays that will be approaching in a few short months. Most of our grandchildren are now teens or adults. We, do, however still have three grandsons, ages 6, 9, and 11. Our great grandson, Easton Lee is now almost 19 months old and we have been fortunate to be able to spend time with him almost each week! He is an adorable, busy boy who has learned to say "Nana".....of course, I love that!
It is hard to imagine what life would have been like today had Lee not received his lung transplant. I do not go into that non-existant world because Lee was given another chance to live......and live he does! He does not waste one minute of his day. He enjoys his life, his children, grandchildren, all of his family, neighbors, and friends. He continues to meet challenges with strong-will and determination each day. Our gratefulness for his extended life knows no boundaries......................................
More Later............................................................Brenda
This month is also a reminder that at this time last year, Lee was in rejection to his new lung. Even after he had been given the strong doses of steroids, he did not respond. Almost the entire month of September 2011 was spent with visits to Duke and the very harsh treatment with RATG. How fortunate Lee was to have been able to receive the medication in the early stages of rejection. The rejection was halted, and with frequent return trips the following six months, he was declared rejection-free in March 2012.
As I type this blog, I am watching Lee from the sunroom windows as he is enjoying the outdoors. He does not stay inside during these days. He only returns for lunch (and sometimes does not do that, preferring instead to eat out with the guys). He is doing fantastic! Our lives are almost back to where they were three years ago prior to his illness in November 2009. Each day he has plans for some job to be done on the farm. He has enjoyed reaping the late Summer harvest of green beans, ocra, and peppers. I have complied by preserving any and all that he brings to me. Our freezers are filled and the shelves in the basement are filled with various canned goods. All that in addition to the honey from his hard-working "girls"in the hives.
Even though he sold his herd of black angus cattle to our neighbor, we are still able to enjoy them as they continue to reside in our pastures that the current owner of the herd leases. From my vantage point today, I can enjoy the young calves as they play, always under the watchful eye of their mothers, only a few feet away. In the distance, I see the persimmon tree, and it is beginning to show the vivid orange color of the fruit. I may even get industrious enough to make Lee some persimmon pudding this year!
Life is wonderful! We seem to be moving effortlessly from one season to the other and are eagerly anticipating the holidays that will be approaching in a few short months. Most of our grandchildren are now teens or adults. We, do, however still have three grandsons, ages 6, 9, and 11. Our great grandson, Easton Lee is now almost 19 months old and we have been fortunate to be able to spend time with him almost each week! He is an adorable, busy boy who has learned to say "Nana".....of course, I love that!
It is hard to imagine what life would have been like today had Lee not received his lung transplant. I do not go into that non-existant world because Lee was given another chance to live......and live he does! He does not waste one minute of his day. He enjoys his life, his children, grandchildren, all of his family, neighbors, and friends. He continues to meet challenges with strong-will and determination each day. Our gratefulness for his extended life knows no boundaries......................................
More Later............................................................Brenda
Monday, August 27, 2012
Ending another year
I know that most of us celebrate the end of a year and the beginning of another year on December 31, and Jan. 1. For me, that was the norm for many, many years. It was, in fact, the norm because my life seemed to pass effortlessly from one year into the next. The major events during those times evolved around births, marriages, professional careers, acquisitons of house, car etc. the accomplishments of children, college and all those events that allowed us to somehow become oblivious to the infirmities of aging.
Once I entered the later decades of my life, my celebrations began to center around things like: Ending a good year with no major illnesses, losses, etc. I am finding as the decades advance that my yearly celebrations are marked by Lee's date of new lung, my surgeries, various weddings and divorces, deaths, and of course birthdays. Sometimes my conversations center around remembering a particular date as to how it happened to coincide with any of the above.
And so it is today that I reflect, as I approach another year in this decade of my life. I have to admit, that it is with trepidation, admitting that my life's journey is now traveling at "warp speed" toward its finality. I will, however, remember what I once read: "If you did not know your age, how old would you be?" Keeping that wise philosophical point in mind, I plan to do the following this week:
1. Cover all the mirrors in the house
2. Eat ice cream and cake
3. Order my favorite foods such as pizza and lasagna
4. Hide the weight scales
5. Visit as many friends as I can
6. Take short walks with no regard for exercise, and relish the splendor of outdoors on the farm
7. Sit on the poarch swing with Lee in the early evening and enjoy the sunset together
8. Watch the sunrise from my favorite chair, along with coffee and my favorite book and silence of T.V.
9. Call my children and insist on a conversation longer than 5 minutes
10. Remember that I am only as old as I feel...............and this week, I will be 26!
I know this blog has been all about me....................after all, it is MY birthday week! Seriously, I do want you to know ( and you may have guessed by now) that Lee is doing GREAT! This has been a fabulous Summer for both of us. Our life has been closer to normal than it has been in the past three years. He continues to amaze me with his fortitude, his determination, and his ability to rise above the challenges he continues to face each day. The blessings of his returning health, strength, and his love, are the BEST birthday presents I could ever hope to receive.
I will remind him that he is fortunate this week ( and this week only) to have a 26 year-old wife!
More Later....................................Brenda
Once I entered the later decades of my life, my celebrations began to center around things like: Ending a good year with no major illnesses, losses, etc. I am finding as the decades advance that my yearly celebrations are marked by Lee's date of new lung, my surgeries, various weddings and divorces, deaths, and of course birthdays. Sometimes my conversations center around remembering a particular date as to how it happened to coincide with any of the above.
And so it is today that I reflect, as I approach another year in this decade of my life. I have to admit, that it is with trepidation, admitting that my life's journey is now traveling at "warp speed" toward its finality. I will, however, remember what I once read: "If you did not know your age, how old would you be?" Keeping that wise philosophical point in mind, I plan to do the following this week:
1. Cover all the mirrors in the house
2. Eat ice cream and cake
3. Order my favorite foods such as pizza and lasagna
4. Hide the weight scales
5. Visit as many friends as I can
6. Take short walks with no regard for exercise, and relish the splendor of outdoors on the farm
7. Sit on the poarch swing with Lee in the early evening and enjoy the sunset together
8. Watch the sunrise from my favorite chair, along with coffee and my favorite book and silence of T.V.
9. Call my children and insist on a conversation longer than 5 minutes
10. Remember that I am only as old as I feel...............and this week, I will be 26!
I know this blog has been all about me....................after all, it is MY birthday week! Seriously, I do want you to know ( and you may have guessed by now) that Lee is doing GREAT! This has been a fabulous Summer for both of us. Our life has been closer to normal than it has been in the past three years. He continues to amaze me with his fortitude, his determination, and his ability to rise above the challenges he continues to face each day. The blessings of his returning health, strength, and his love, are the BEST birthday presents I could ever hope to receive.
I will remind him that he is fortunate this week ( and this week only) to have a 26 year-old wife!
More Later....................................Brenda
Friday, August 17, 2012
Eva Called!
Well, I am back again! Nothing like not writing for three months and then having the urge to resume writing.
I did get a nudge from my friend Eva today, and of course, I have missed all of you. She was concerned that I had allowed almost three months to lapse in blog time and called me this afternoon. We had lots of catch-up to do and talked for over an hour! So I would like to apologize to those of you who continue to follow our journey.....and it continues as it will for the remainder of our lives.
Next, I would like to thank all of you for still being there for us. I can't tell you how much that means to both of us. Even though Lee is doing really good right now, we are well aware of how quickly his condition could take a bad turn.
It was so good to talk to Eva. She brought me up to date on some of our nurse friends. To Diane: I am sorry that Bob has had some problems, but I understand that he is on the mend and Eva said he looked great! Congratulations Bob, we are happy this ordeal is behind you. I know that Diane is taking real good care of you. Also, for Eva: So wonderful to hear that Broadus is better! Now you two can enjoy your new home and the new location close to your son. So many good things that we shared during that conversation today.
Lee had to attend a funeral today for one of his relatives, and I had decided not to go. Glad I stayed behind or I would have missed Eva's call. Thank you Eva!
As you can see, Lee is on his own! He does whatever and goes wherever, whenever he pleases. In fact, most days I find myself calling him on his cell just to locate him! Isn't that good news?! He is a happy fellow now that football season is back. Each evening finds him watching a game and that is the way it will be until Super Bowl. It is unfortunate that he cannot attend the Panther games, but he has been able to share his tickets with the children and grandchildren. The crowds are just too risky for him. You never know when he may come into close contact with someone or a child with something catching. That, for him could mean a severe illness, rejection or even death. So............for now, he seems content to watch the games comfortably from his recliner.
Stay with me bloggers...................I will keep you updated and I will be more dependable in the future!
Hello to all my nursing friends, class of '61! Next Friday, August 24, will be our anniversary!
More Later........................................Brenda
I did get a nudge from my friend Eva today, and of course, I have missed all of you. She was concerned that I had allowed almost three months to lapse in blog time and called me this afternoon. We had lots of catch-up to do and talked for over an hour! So I would like to apologize to those of you who continue to follow our journey.....and it continues as it will for the remainder of our lives.
Next, I would like to thank all of you for still being there for us. I can't tell you how much that means to both of us. Even though Lee is doing really good right now, we are well aware of how quickly his condition could take a bad turn.
It was so good to talk to Eva. She brought me up to date on some of our nurse friends. To Diane: I am sorry that Bob has had some problems, but I understand that he is on the mend and Eva said he looked great! Congratulations Bob, we are happy this ordeal is behind you. I know that Diane is taking real good care of you. Also, for Eva: So wonderful to hear that Broadus is better! Now you two can enjoy your new home and the new location close to your son. So many good things that we shared during that conversation today.
Lee had to attend a funeral today for one of his relatives, and I had decided not to go. Glad I stayed behind or I would have missed Eva's call. Thank you Eva!
As you can see, Lee is on his own! He does whatever and goes wherever, whenever he pleases. In fact, most days I find myself calling him on his cell just to locate him! Isn't that good news?! He is a happy fellow now that football season is back. Each evening finds him watching a game and that is the way it will be until Super Bowl. It is unfortunate that he cannot attend the Panther games, but he has been able to share his tickets with the children and grandchildren. The crowds are just too risky for him. You never know when he may come into close contact with someone or a child with something catching. That, for him could mean a severe illness, rejection or even death. So............for now, he seems content to watch the games comfortably from his recliner.
Stay with me bloggers...................I will keep you updated and I will be more dependable in the future!
Hello to all my nursing friends, class of '61! Next Friday, August 24, will be our anniversary!
More Later........................................Brenda
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Time Flies!
Time flies when you are having fun! So, as you can guess by now, Lee and I have been having a great Summer! Lee is doing fantastic! He is much stronger now and it seems as though each new day brings us closer to the Lee that was left behind two years ago.
Since we came home from Durham in November, 2010, Lee has gradually gained weight, much of which has been muscle. He has gained 30 pounds since that day of discharge. He is now having to watch his calories a little more closely as he does not want to gain any more.
Each new day I marvel at his ability to demonstrate his new strength and endurance. After his breakfast ( some times he is on his own for that), he always has his day planned for some event that requires his renewed strength. Even though there are still many jobs he should not and does not tackle, he has become very proficient at supervising either a grandson, or young hired worker to do the job to his satisfaction. These young workers have been fortunate to have such a good teacher like Lee who has been gifted with knowing how to do work the right way. He takes no short-cuts and makes them take the time to do the
job right!
In addition to being able to take two trips to the beach in July (very Hot!), Lee has enjoyed having a garden this year! He had permission from Duke to work in his garden as long as he wore his industrial mask. Along with eldest son, Lee Jr., we were able to have a bountiful harvest of tomatoes, corn, squash and cucumbers. Our bean patch did not do so well, and only Lee Jr. was able to harvest some of those while we were at the beach. In addition, Lee's blackberries were fruitful, and after the many pies, I processed some delicious preserves for later use.
Yesterday, Lee came from the small vineyard of muscadines and handed me a handful of the lucious grapes. I will definitely make some muscadine jelly this year! They are so sweet and tasty! We usually have to wait until the honey bees have their share during the day and pick the grapes later in the evening after they return to their hives.
Speaking of bees......Lee and his "bee buddies" gathered in our downstairs "robbing the bees area" two weeks ago. Each of them brought their racks of collected honey from their farms and were able to extract the honey using Lee's extractor. The basement area was nice and cool and the guys enjoyed the comaradie that goes along with the "bee-keeping". This was always something that Lee enjoyed immensly and it was good to see him be part of the team again this year. The bees were a little less productive than previous years, but none-the-less he was able to put away a bounty of honey to be shared with our families.
Another thing that Lee has enjoyed was that he was able to meet with some of his Nationwide colleagues at Cross Creek in Mr. Airy, NC. last week. That used to be an annual happening with golf and companionship before Lee became ill. We were invited last year to dinner with all of them, and were able to go again last week. Lee has not returned to golf yet, so we planned a two-day outing in the mountains with dinner once again.
Lee's last visit to Duke was July 11, and he received the BEST report ever! In fact, the doctor said he was doing so well that unless he had problems, he did not need to return until October 24 for just an office visit! He will not need another bronch (unless a problem) until May of 2013! He is still on high doses of prednisone and the new anti-rejection drug. Unfortunately these drugs do have serious side-effects and Lee has had two bouts of skin cancer. The drugs also lower his hemoglobin, and his is low right now. He is taking iron and we try to boost his iron with his diet. In addition, his immune system is low and we have to be aware of crowds, particularly during seasons of cold, flu,etc.
We continue to stay in touch with our many transplant friends. We feel their elation for good days, and we grieve for their bad times. Occasionally there is news of death, or rejection complications from an acquaintance, and we have to face the reality of his many challenges. It is during those dark times that we are once again reminded of Lee's good fortune to have been given an extended time for living. Our awarness of the fragility of life is always in the shadows. Lee is mindful of this as he begins each day prayfully:
"Lord, for this another day, we give you thanks"..........................................................
More Later ( and I hope not so long).......................................Brenda
Since we came home from Durham in November, 2010, Lee has gradually gained weight, much of which has been muscle. He has gained 30 pounds since that day of discharge. He is now having to watch his calories a little more closely as he does not want to gain any more.
Each new day I marvel at his ability to demonstrate his new strength and endurance. After his breakfast ( some times he is on his own for that), he always has his day planned for some event that requires his renewed strength. Even though there are still many jobs he should not and does not tackle, he has become very proficient at supervising either a grandson, or young hired worker to do the job to his satisfaction. These young workers have been fortunate to have such a good teacher like Lee who has been gifted with knowing how to do work the right way. He takes no short-cuts and makes them take the time to do the
job right!
In addition to being able to take two trips to the beach in July (very Hot!), Lee has enjoyed having a garden this year! He had permission from Duke to work in his garden as long as he wore his industrial mask. Along with eldest son, Lee Jr., we were able to have a bountiful harvest of tomatoes, corn, squash and cucumbers. Our bean patch did not do so well, and only Lee Jr. was able to harvest some of those while we were at the beach. In addition, Lee's blackberries were fruitful, and after the many pies, I processed some delicious preserves for later use.
Yesterday, Lee came from the small vineyard of muscadines and handed me a handful of the lucious grapes. I will definitely make some muscadine jelly this year! They are so sweet and tasty! We usually have to wait until the honey bees have their share during the day and pick the grapes later in the evening after they return to their hives.
Speaking of bees......Lee and his "bee buddies" gathered in our downstairs "robbing the bees area" two weeks ago. Each of them brought their racks of collected honey from their farms and were able to extract the honey using Lee's extractor. The basement area was nice and cool and the guys enjoyed the comaradie that goes along with the "bee-keeping". This was always something that Lee enjoyed immensly and it was good to see him be part of the team again this year. The bees were a little less productive than previous years, but none-the-less he was able to put away a bounty of honey to be shared with our families.
Another thing that Lee has enjoyed was that he was able to meet with some of his Nationwide colleagues at Cross Creek in Mr. Airy, NC. last week. That used to be an annual happening with golf and companionship before Lee became ill. We were invited last year to dinner with all of them, and were able to go again last week. Lee has not returned to golf yet, so we planned a two-day outing in the mountains with dinner once again.
Lee's last visit to Duke was July 11, and he received the BEST report ever! In fact, the doctor said he was doing so well that unless he had problems, he did not need to return until October 24 for just an office visit! He will not need another bronch (unless a problem) until May of 2013! He is still on high doses of prednisone and the new anti-rejection drug. Unfortunately these drugs do have serious side-effects and Lee has had two bouts of skin cancer. The drugs also lower his hemoglobin, and his is low right now. He is taking iron and we try to boost his iron with his diet. In addition, his immune system is low and we have to be aware of crowds, particularly during seasons of cold, flu,etc.
We continue to stay in touch with our many transplant friends. We feel their elation for good days, and we grieve for their bad times. Occasionally there is news of death, or rejection complications from an acquaintance, and we have to face the reality of his many challenges. It is during those dark times that we are once again reminded of Lee's good fortune to have been given an extended time for living. Our awarness of the fragility of life is always in the shadows. Lee is mindful of this as he begins each day prayfully:
"Lord, for this another day, we give you thanks"..........................................................
More Later ( and I hope not so long).......................................Brenda
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Back on the Farm
Even though we thoroughly enjoyed our early beach vacation, it has been good to be back on the farm. I told Lee this morning, I was enjoying the view from my kitchen window better than the view from the beach kitchen window. The beach window looked out into the backyard of neighbors and the farm view looks out into a large backyard with Lee's fruit orchard, grapevines, blackberries, and blue berry bushes behind the gazebo. The beauty is there and all around us. The beach is great too! It was wonderful to sit on the front deck in the swing for our morning coffee, knowing the ocean was only a few minutes walk away. Lee was able to go on the beach Sunday and Monday. We sat under the tent and watched the boys play in the sand. I enjoyed some long walks on the beach with our grandsons, Chase and Carson. I have to say that we have the best of both worlds.
I have been busy today with the many errands one finds necessary after a vacation. In addition, I have been busily preparing to celebrate the birthdays of Lee (again), daughter Julia, and daughter-in-law, Cathy. They will be over Friday evening for a Summer cook-out. Today I picked up my two grand-daughters after school and Lillie, the 13 year-old gave me a short fashion show in regards to her FIRST formal dance next Friday evening. This is a special event for all the eighth graders at her middle school. I suppose, in a way, it is a "right of passage" since they are finishing middle school and preparing for high school next Fall. Anyway, she was lovely in her lavender/sequined dress, sparkling dangling earrings and necklace, and the high-heeled silver shoes. I'm hoping she will tone down the eye make-up a tad! (She and all her friends have had a bit of the racoon eyes this year!) All, just a part of growing up!
Lee has had a wonderful day today. As we were having supper, he told me all the things he had done. This morning he went for labs, had breakfast with some friends at Bo- Jangles, then on to rehab in Hickory. After a quick lunch on his own, he and a friend went to the hardware store where he found the perfect hat to protect him from the sun. It is well vented and has a protective wide brim, with ties to keep the hat on when windy days are here. All this in the camaflouge design!
As if that were not enough, he put on his industrial mask and plowed some rows in the garden. After that, he thinned the pair tree in the back yard, inspected the orchard and the blackberry bushes. All this and he still found time to visit some of his neighbor farmer friends in the late afternoon. What a joy to see him feeling better and having all the energy today. This is the best day he has had in two-and-one-half years! He looks so good, and now when I listen to his lung, it sounds very clear. All I hear is air moving quietly in and out! His cough has almost completely gone away.......just a little cough in the early mornings. He thinks that is just a post-nasal drainage, and I believe he is right.
We give many grateful prayers these days! We feel so blessed to have been given these extra years together. Each day as I listen to Lee pray, his prayers begin with thankfulness for "Yet, Another Day".
Until Yet, Another Day.......................................Brenda
I have been busy today with the many errands one finds necessary after a vacation. In addition, I have been busily preparing to celebrate the birthdays of Lee (again), daughter Julia, and daughter-in-law, Cathy. They will be over Friday evening for a Summer cook-out. Today I picked up my two grand-daughters after school and Lillie, the 13 year-old gave me a short fashion show in regards to her FIRST formal dance next Friday evening. This is a special event for all the eighth graders at her middle school. I suppose, in a way, it is a "right of passage" since they are finishing middle school and preparing for high school next Fall. Anyway, she was lovely in her lavender/sequined dress, sparkling dangling earrings and necklace, and the high-heeled silver shoes. I'm hoping she will tone down the eye make-up a tad! (She and all her friends have had a bit of the racoon eyes this year!) All, just a part of growing up!
Lee has had a wonderful day today. As we were having supper, he told me all the things he had done. This morning he went for labs, had breakfast with some friends at Bo- Jangles, then on to rehab in Hickory. After a quick lunch on his own, he and a friend went to the hardware store where he found the perfect hat to protect him from the sun. It is well vented and has a protective wide brim, with ties to keep the hat on when windy days are here. All this in the camaflouge design!
As if that were not enough, he put on his industrial mask and plowed some rows in the garden. After that, he thinned the pair tree in the back yard, inspected the orchard and the blackberry bushes. All this and he still found time to visit some of his neighbor farmer friends in the late afternoon. What a joy to see him feeling better and having all the energy today. This is the best day he has had in two-and-one-half years! He looks so good, and now when I listen to his lung, it sounds very clear. All I hear is air moving quietly in and out! His cough has almost completely gone away.......just a little cough in the early mornings. He thinks that is just a post-nasal drainage, and I believe he is right.
We give many grateful prayers these days! We feel so blessed to have been given these extra years together. Each day as I listen to Lee pray, his prayers begin with thankfulness for "Yet, Another Day".
Until Yet, Another Day.......................................Brenda
Friday, May 25, 2012
The Reunion
We have been at the beach for the past ten days and plan to return home on the 30th of May. There are so many events that have happened since I last wrote......I had even forgotten how long it had been since I visited the blog until I happened to run in to a good friend from Lincolnton at Wal-mart in Southport this morning. She reminded me that I had not written in a while and wanted to know if Lee was O.K.
Actuallly, Lee is doing fine. He did, however, break out in shingles two days before we left to come to the beach. Can't remember how much I have shared with you and forgive me if this is redundant.
Six weeks ago, Lee had a basil cell ca. removed from his right hand. One week later he had a small white lesion on his lower lip biopsied. This pathology report returned shortly thereafter with a very aggressive squamous cell ca. He was scheduled the next morning for the moh's procedure with a dermatologist/pathologist/plastic surgeon @ Piedmont Dermatology and Plastic Surgery in Gastonia. After spending most of the day for all those procedures, he was told that all the cancerous tissue had been excised. The cancer had spread all across his lower lip. His lip was about tripled the size and he had to eat from a straw for a few days. I named him "Hot Lips Leelagan". Don't think he thought that was very funny!
Any way, the lip has healed and the graft that was secured inside th lip looks good. He has a tiny dimple in the center of the lip, that is probably only noticeable by him and me. All the stitches have finally dissolved or I have removed them as they were worrisome to him.
It was during this time that we returned to Duke. He had another bronchoscopy that gave him the all clear! No rejection, no infection, no fungus, tissue looked healthy! Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
We did have a lengthy discussion with the doctors about his medication and the fact that his immune system appeared to be severely comprimised. ( chicken pox in April and now the ca. )
They agreed and discontinued one med and decreased the other. Hopefully, he will now regain some strength and stop with these communicable childhood diseases.
Two days before we left to come to the beach, he broke out in Shingles. He began the medication immediately and had a very mild episode. So far, they seem to have disappeared.
WHEW!!!
Now to the explanation of the title for this blog! We had a reunion beginning on May 16, and ending on May 20 with our dear friends we met during the transplant experience.
Larry and Martha Floyd came from Georgia
Wayne and Betty Lafon came from Roanoke, Va.
Jerry and Gloria Woodell from Wilmington
George and Nancy Findley from St. James (near here)
Everyone stayed for overnights except George and Nancy. We had a lovely brunch here on Friday and a luncheon at Gloria's and Jerry's in Wilmington on Saturday. We also enjoyed eating at the golf club on Saturday evening. (We go there because of the small crowd)
It was truly a support group seminar! We all compared notes and it was good to feel the company of those who know exactly what we are experiencing. The guys laughed and shared their "war" stories, while the girls did a lot of kitchen duties , some beach time and shopping. It was a wonderful time for all of us!
On Wednesday evening, we were invited to have dinner with some of our friends who were vacationing at Caswell Baptist Center. We had a great meal, wonderful fellowship and enjoyed the evening program. On Thursday norning the entire group visited us via bus. I'm sure our neighbors were surprised to see a bus parked on the street in front of our house!
Lee just called.............our neighbors have invited us to dinner and some of our children and grandchildren will be here late this evening for the Memorial Day week-end. Life is good.............no.........it is wonderful!
More Later....................and I hope....................sooner!....................Brenda
Actuallly, Lee is doing fine. He did, however, break out in shingles two days before we left to come to the beach. Can't remember how much I have shared with you and forgive me if this is redundant.
Six weeks ago, Lee had a basil cell ca. removed from his right hand. One week later he had a small white lesion on his lower lip biopsied. This pathology report returned shortly thereafter with a very aggressive squamous cell ca. He was scheduled the next morning for the moh's procedure with a dermatologist/pathologist/plastic surgeon @ Piedmont Dermatology and Plastic Surgery in Gastonia. After spending most of the day for all those procedures, he was told that all the cancerous tissue had been excised. The cancer had spread all across his lower lip. His lip was about tripled the size and he had to eat from a straw for a few days. I named him "Hot Lips Leelagan". Don't think he thought that was very funny!
Any way, the lip has healed and the graft that was secured inside th lip looks good. He has a tiny dimple in the center of the lip, that is probably only noticeable by him and me. All the stitches have finally dissolved or I have removed them as they were worrisome to him.
It was during this time that we returned to Duke. He had another bronchoscopy that gave him the all clear! No rejection, no infection, no fungus, tissue looked healthy! Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
We did have a lengthy discussion with the doctors about his medication and the fact that his immune system appeared to be severely comprimised. ( chicken pox in April and now the ca. )
They agreed and discontinued one med and decreased the other. Hopefully, he will now regain some strength and stop with these communicable childhood diseases.
Two days before we left to come to the beach, he broke out in Shingles. He began the medication immediately and had a very mild episode. So far, they seem to have disappeared.
WHEW!!!
Now to the explanation of the title for this blog! We had a reunion beginning on May 16, and ending on May 20 with our dear friends we met during the transplant experience.
Larry and Martha Floyd came from Georgia
Wayne and Betty Lafon came from Roanoke, Va.
Jerry and Gloria Woodell from Wilmington
George and Nancy Findley from St. James (near here)
Everyone stayed for overnights except George and Nancy. We had a lovely brunch here on Friday and a luncheon at Gloria's and Jerry's in Wilmington on Saturday. We also enjoyed eating at the golf club on Saturday evening. (We go there because of the small crowd)
It was truly a support group seminar! We all compared notes and it was good to feel the company of those who know exactly what we are experiencing. The guys laughed and shared their "war" stories, while the girls did a lot of kitchen duties , some beach time and shopping. It was a wonderful time for all of us!
On Wednesday evening, we were invited to have dinner with some of our friends who were vacationing at Caswell Baptist Center. We had a great meal, wonderful fellowship and enjoyed the evening program. On Thursday norning the entire group visited us via bus. I'm sure our neighbors were surprised to see a bus parked on the street in front of our house!
Lee just called.............our neighbors have invited us to dinner and some of our children and grandchildren will be here late this evening for the Memorial Day week-end. Life is good.............no.........it is wonderful!
More Later....................and I hope....................sooner!....................Brenda
Monday, April 30, 2012
Strawberry Jam
Yesterday afternoon Lee and I traveled to Knob Creek, a lovely produce farm located on highway 18, somewhere between Morganton and Shelby. They have lovely, big, juicy, sweet strawberries! For the past two weeks, Lee had already made three trips for berries, both for us and for our neighbors. Those berries went for an assortnent of desserts, freezer bags and some for just eating! The berries purchased yesterday were destined for jam.....per request by Lee.
I must warn you.....I am not a good jelly or jam maker! I usually mess up big time! It is either too runny, or too thick or too sweet or not sweet enough. At any rate, it is always a flop!
I was awake by 6:00 and could almost smell the overly ripe berries as the scent drifted through the house. After only one cup of coffee, I charged forward and began washing, capping and slicing the berries. By the time Lee was up @ 7:00, I had already managed to have five quarts ready for the freezer! My plan was to finish the next gallon for maybe a pie or just to eat.
Not to be! Lee reminded me that he remembered a time when he could have fresh strawberry jam each summer. ( Hummmmmmmm??) He also said that he did not think it was a difficult thing to do! Not to be outdone, I decided to get on with the process of making the jam after finishing his breakfast. (Especially since he reminded me that the purchased jar of strawberry jam had to cost more than what I could make!) Lee had to do one thing for me.....go to the store for the necessary pectin.
Finally around noon, I had managed to complete 12 1/2_ pints of strawberry jam that now stood adorning my kitchen counter! It was time to tally up the price of my home-made jam:
1 gal strawberries........................................$9.00
2 pkg pectin................................................ 5.00
6 cups sugar............................................... 3.00
minimum wage labor..............
$8.50 x 5 hours...........................................42.50
Total cost of jam....................................... $59.50 or $4.41 per 1/2 pint jar
Comparison to grocery jar:.......................32 ounces cost: $3.79
There you go...........................Good old home-made, money-saving strawberry jam!
More Later.............................Brenda
I must warn you.....I am not a good jelly or jam maker! I usually mess up big time! It is either too runny, or too thick or too sweet or not sweet enough. At any rate, it is always a flop!
I was awake by 6:00 and could almost smell the overly ripe berries as the scent drifted through the house. After only one cup of coffee, I charged forward and began washing, capping and slicing the berries. By the time Lee was up @ 7:00, I had already managed to have five quarts ready for the freezer! My plan was to finish the next gallon for maybe a pie or just to eat.
Not to be! Lee reminded me that he remembered a time when he could have fresh strawberry jam each summer. ( Hummmmmmmm??) He also said that he did not think it was a difficult thing to do! Not to be outdone, I decided to get on with the process of making the jam after finishing his breakfast. (Especially since he reminded me that the purchased jar of strawberry jam had to cost more than what I could make!) Lee had to do one thing for me.....go to the store for the necessary pectin.
Finally around noon, I had managed to complete 12 1/2_ pints of strawberry jam that now stood adorning my kitchen counter! It was time to tally up the price of my home-made jam:
1 gal strawberries........................................$9.00
2 pkg pectin................................................ 5.00
6 cups sugar............................................... 3.00
minimum wage labor..............
$8.50 x 5 hours...........................................42.50
Total cost of jam....................................... $59.50 or $4.41 per 1/2 pint jar
Comparison to grocery jar:.......................32 ounces cost: $3.79
There you go...........................Good old home-made, money-saving strawberry jam!
More Later.............................Brenda
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Post Easter
Lee and I were able to enjoy a week at the beach over Easter. Youngest son, Doug , along with wife, Elizabeth and their two boys, Alex 9, and Max 6, were there with us.
We arrived on a cool, windy and rainy Thursday afternoon and this very cool rain continued until Saturday noon. The boys were not to be disappointed with their memories of Summer beach trips and braved the wind and cold ocean for a "very refreshing dip!" Needless to say, when they returned to the house there was a "whole lot of shakin' goi'n on!" There were no untoward ill effects from their premature plunge or Polar swim. Warm towels and blankets along with good laps proved effective enough.
Unfortunately for Lee, it was another type of adventure; one that he would have preferred not to have visited. Five or six days before we left for the beach, he had tried unsuccessfully to pull-cord start a weed-eater (to see if it would work before loaning it to our daughter). There was no immediate pain from this until about three days later. It began with a "twinge" or pain on movement and progressed to a full-blown excruciating attack. Lee decided to immobilize his arm and that seemed to help. He had the same experience last Fall when he fished all day. Unable to pursuade him to see a doctor, we left for the beach in hopes that it would improve. Not to be......................each day was worse than the day before. He used lots of ice packs, pain meds and finally just gave in to the pain and endured it hoping for some relief.
I am happy to report that he is now fine. The pain finally subsided the day we left to come home and has been improving since. This was the same shoulder that has the prosthesis, and from past experience with the doctors, Lee knew that time would probably take care of the situation. He will admit, however, that it was a miserable week at the beach!
The good news is that Elizabeth and Doug made sure we had good meals, and the boys kept us entertained. When we departed we knew that with their wonderful help the beach house was sparkling clean inside and out and ready for Summer! HUGS AND KISSES TO THEM!
More Later...........................................Brenda
We arrived on a cool, windy and rainy Thursday afternoon and this very cool rain continued until Saturday noon. The boys were not to be disappointed with their memories of Summer beach trips and braved the wind and cold ocean for a "very refreshing dip!" Needless to say, when they returned to the house there was a "whole lot of shakin' goi'n on!" There were no untoward ill effects from their premature plunge or Polar swim. Warm towels and blankets along with good laps proved effective enough.
Unfortunately for Lee, it was another type of adventure; one that he would have preferred not to have visited. Five or six days before we left for the beach, he had tried unsuccessfully to pull-cord start a weed-eater (to see if it would work before loaning it to our daughter). There was no immediate pain from this until about three days later. It began with a "twinge" or pain on movement and progressed to a full-blown excruciating attack. Lee decided to immobilize his arm and that seemed to help. He had the same experience last Fall when he fished all day. Unable to pursuade him to see a doctor, we left for the beach in hopes that it would improve. Not to be......................each day was worse than the day before. He used lots of ice packs, pain meds and finally just gave in to the pain and endured it hoping for some relief.
I am happy to report that he is now fine. The pain finally subsided the day we left to come home and has been improving since. This was the same shoulder that has the prosthesis, and from past experience with the doctors, Lee knew that time would probably take care of the situation. He will admit, however, that it was a miserable week at the beach!
The good news is that Elizabeth and Doug made sure we had good meals, and the boys kept us entertained. When we departed we knew that with their wonderful help the beach house was sparkling clean inside and out and ready for Summer! HUGS AND KISSES TO THEM!
More Later...........................................Brenda
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Swarms of Bees!
In this picture, Lee is looking at a swarm of bees in the weeping cherry tree that is located in our yard. This picture was taken last May on a Sunday afternoon. We had many of my siblings over for an afternoon of ice cream and cake to celebrate Mother's Day. Everyone was entertained during the afternoon with a swarm of bees from Lee's bee hives.
If you are familiar with bees, you know that the hive will not tolerate two queens so the new or old queen will leave and usually half or more of those loyal to that queen will depart with her. The bees will swarm around the queen and closely guard her. When she finally picks a place ( tree branch, or whatever suits her fancy) she will land and the bees will gather closely around her and protect her. Other bees will fly around the area to make sure there are no invaders. When the bees swarm, they are loaded with honey. They do not leave permanently for a new location before packing themselves with as much honey as they can carry. They are mostly harmless at this time and are too heavy with honey to attack.
So far this year, Lee has had six swarms from his four bee hives in the back yard. It has been a very good year for production of the bees and for the development of the queens. It has been exciting to watch the different areas that have become the temporary landing place for the swarms. Fortunately, we have many trees in the back and they have taken advantage of all of the six areas. Lee has many friends who are experts at collecting hives and they have been generous with their time to help him collect the bees and place them in their new hives. So far he has given all the hives to his friends because he is content with the four that he has.
We are looking forward to the rewards of the sweet honey the bees will give us. Lee and his friends will rob the hives in mid-Summer, leaving enough for the bees to survive the Fall and Winter.
We were delighted that Lee was given the O.K. by Duke to continue his hobby as a bee-keeper.
More Later.........................................Brenda
If you are familiar with bees, you know that the hive will not tolerate two queens so the new or old queen will leave and usually half or more of those loyal to that queen will depart with her. The bees will swarm around the queen and closely guard her. When she finally picks a place ( tree branch, or whatever suits her fancy) she will land and the bees will gather closely around her and protect her. Other bees will fly around the area to make sure there are no invaders. When the bees swarm, they are loaded with honey. They do not leave permanently for a new location before packing themselves with as much honey as they can carry. They are mostly harmless at this time and are too heavy with honey to attack.
So far this year, Lee has had six swarms from his four bee hives in the back yard. It has been a very good year for production of the bees and for the development of the queens. It has been exciting to watch the different areas that have become the temporary landing place for the swarms. Fortunately, we have many trees in the back and they have taken advantage of all of the six areas. Lee has many friends who are experts at collecting hives and they have been generous with their time to help him collect the bees and place them in their new hives. So far he has given all the hives to his friends because he is content with the four that he has.
We are looking forward to the rewards of the sweet honey the bees will give us. Lee and his friends will rob the hives in mid-Summer, leaving enough for the bees to survive the Fall and Winter.
We were delighted that Lee was given the O.K. by Duke to continue his hobby as a bee-keeper.
More Later.........................................Brenda
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Say What?
About two weeks ago, Lee developed an unusual rash on his lower back area. He described it as itchy and somewhat "stingy". He had been very tired and just did not feel good. He had complained with a headache and said just getting out of his chair seemed to require more effort. The rash by this time was isolated to only two large pustules and a smaller red one. When I told him it looked like chicken pox, we began to search for his history of the childhood disease. Telephone calls to his siblings only revealed that he probably did have them as a child, but no clear proof.
This required an e-mail to Duke. We were told that Lee must see a dermatologist ASAP and have either cultures or biopsy done. We were able to accomplish that the following day, and the dermatologist confirmed that it did look like the chicken pox virus. A biopsy was taken, and we were advised to call Duke for a prescription for a strong acyclovir medicine to prevent further break-outs and hopefully begin to clear the three or four he now had.
Since then, Lee has continued to break-out, but with smaller lesions that are clearing quickly. He did not catch the chicken pox from anyone......this happened as a result of his very low immune system. His anti-rejection drugs have been increased over the past two months and because of this, the dormant chicken pox that he had as a child has resurfaced. Another complication of having the lowered immune system and the strong anti-rejection drugs.
As of today, the lesions are drying and he will not be contagious when they have all crusted over. He is feeling better and his energy is returning. We are still planning our beach vacation next week!
More Later..................................Brenda
This required an e-mail to Duke. We were told that Lee must see a dermatologist ASAP and have either cultures or biopsy done. We were able to accomplish that the following day, and the dermatologist confirmed that it did look like the chicken pox virus. A biopsy was taken, and we were advised to call Duke for a prescription for a strong acyclovir medicine to prevent further break-outs and hopefully begin to clear the three or four he now had.
Since then, Lee has continued to break-out, but with smaller lesions that are clearing quickly. He did not catch the chicken pox from anyone......this happened as a result of his very low immune system. His anti-rejection drugs have been increased over the past two months and because of this, the dormant chicken pox that he had as a child has resurfaced. Another complication of having the lowered immune system and the strong anti-rejection drugs.
As of today, the lesions are drying and he will not be contagious when they have all crusted over. He is feeling better and his energy is returning. We are still planning our beach vacation next week!
More Later..................................Brenda
Friday, March 30, 2012
Another First!
On this lovely Spring day, March 30, Lee was able to do something he has longed to do for a long time. In fact, it has been about two and one-half years since he has climbed onto a tractor. Even though all of his farm equipment has been sold and the sheds are standing lonely and empty, he held onto his two favorite tractors. He kept the first and the last ones he bought. All the others have been sold.
He left the house shortly after breakfast and informed me that he was going to use his tractor to load something onto his truck. I, being always the "watch-dog", inquired if anyone would be helping him. No, he said, I can do this by myself! I turned away and forbid myself to utter another word! I reminded myself, that my time as caregiver must include being able to remember when to "let him go".
A short time later, I heard the sound of the tractor and I stood at one of the windows in the sunroom to watch him as he came from the barn area toward the backyard. My vision was somewhat obscured by my tears of gratefullness as I watched him drive by his garage and turn right into the lower pasture. I knew he was enjoying his ride immensely. I continued on with my work of laundry and usual house work and noticed that his best friend, Hewitt had arrived. I could relax....now he had help if needed.
I suppose that is what happens when you become a care-giver for an extended period of time. There are confusing emotions that are filled with ambivilence......Yes, let it go, or No, I need to sheild him from harm. It is a daily concern that never leaves my thoughts. There is a part of me that pushes for his freedom from the confines that his disease has bestowed upon him, however, there is also the selfish part of me that wants to keep him well, and with me for as long as I can.
I am slowly coming to terms with the fact that whatever happens in the future is not mine to control, and most of all, Lee must have a happy and satisfiying life. That includes being able to do the things he loves!
More Later.........................Brenda
He left the house shortly after breakfast and informed me that he was going to use his tractor to load something onto his truck. I, being always the "watch-dog", inquired if anyone would be helping him. No, he said, I can do this by myself! I turned away and forbid myself to utter another word! I reminded myself, that my time as caregiver must include being able to remember when to "let him go".
A short time later, I heard the sound of the tractor and I stood at one of the windows in the sunroom to watch him as he came from the barn area toward the backyard. My vision was somewhat obscured by my tears of gratefullness as I watched him drive by his garage and turn right into the lower pasture. I knew he was enjoying his ride immensely. I continued on with my work of laundry and usual house work and noticed that his best friend, Hewitt had arrived. I could relax....now he had help if needed.
I suppose that is what happens when you become a care-giver for an extended period of time. There are confusing emotions that are filled with ambivilence......Yes, let it go, or No, I need to sheild him from harm. It is a daily concern that never leaves my thoughts. There is a part of me that pushes for his freedom from the confines that his disease has bestowed upon him, however, there is also the selfish part of me that wants to keep him well, and with me for as long as I can.
I am slowly coming to terms with the fact that whatever happens in the future is not mine to control, and most of all, Lee must have a happy and satisfiying life. That includes being able to do the things he loves!
More Later.........................Brenda
Sunday, March 25, 2012
and we cough.........
It seems like these days are filled with coughing from both of us! I am recovering from a virus that seemed determined to attack my throat and all my cough reflexes. Lee, on the other hand, is still dealing with this persistant cough. Even though he has had many bronchoscopies, and he has been seen by a host of pulmonary post-lung transplant specialists at Duke, the cough continues to be baffling. In the beginning, it was attributed to an infection, then it was attributed to a fungus, then to rejection. Each time after the treatment, the cough would subside for a short period of time only to resume again. The last tine we presented the "cough" for discussion, Lee was told that the cough may be coming from the "old" lung, and that he might want to consider removing that lung and having a transplant on the other side! He and I gave each other the LOOK, and quickly vetoed that suggestion.
I honestly do not believe that Lee could survive another transplant. I must be honest in saying that I would have preferred that he had been given a double-lung-transplant in the beginning. We did not have any control over that decision. He was never given an option as to one lung or two. As explained to us prior to the transplant: After the age of 70, one lung is your only option in pulmonary fibrosis. Lee had only turned 70 less than a month prior to the transplant.
So..............other than this nagging cough on both our parts, we are doing fine. Lee's cough is such that he does NOT cough at night.....I DO..........His cough is unpredictable and only two or three times a day. Mine is gradually disappearing, leaving a trace of laryngitis. We have both tried very hard to prevent the spread of my virus to him. We both wear masks when in close proximity and I have been wearing a mask for all times in his area and during his food preparation. I do not mind wearing a mask since I became quite accustomed to it years ago when I worked in the operating room. After a while, it becomes part of your body!
All in all, we are enjoying watching the changing of the season with the beauty of color. Everwhere we look we see signs of returning life. What an inspiration! We are eagerly anticipating a return to the beach in the near future and spending some time with children and grandchildren.
More Later...................................Brenda
I honestly do not believe that Lee could survive another transplant. I must be honest in saying that I would have preferred that he had been given a double-lung-transplant in the beginning. We did not have any control over that decision. He was never given an option as to one lung or two. As explained to us prior to the transplant: After the age of 70, one lung is your only option in pulmonary fibrosis. Lee had only turned 70 less than a month prior to the transplant.
So..............other than this nagging cough on both our parts, we are doing fine. Lee's cough is such that he does NOT cough at night.....I DO..........His cough is unpredictable and only two or three times a day. Mine is gradually disappearing, leaving a trace of laryngitis. We have both tried very hard to prevent the spread of my virus to him. We both wear masks when in close proximity and I have been wearing a mask for all times in his area and during his food preparation. I do not mind wearing a mask since I became quite accustomed to it years ago when I worked in the operating room. After a while, it becomes part of your body!
All in all, we are enjoying watching the changing of the season with the beauty of color. Everwhere we look we see signs of returning life. What an inspiration! We are eagerly anticipating a return to the beach in the near future and spending some time with children and grandchildren.
More Later...................................Brenda
Saturday, March 10, 2012
It is O.K.
The other day as I was doing some routine cleaning of the house, I noticed a common occurrance of greasy spots on the floor in the kitchen, breakfast area and the den. A closer inspection confirmed my suspicion that Lee was the culprit. The greasy spots were apparent in his areas only. For example: around his favorite recliner in the den, around his chair at the breakfast table, some areas of the kitchen and at the entry.
I mentioned this to him and he found the grease on the bottom of his tennis shoes. He said that he had been working on a piece of equipment in his shop and had probably dropped some of the grease on the floor, stepped in it and tracked it through the house.
Of course, my first reaction was "how will I remove this grease?", and "I wish Lee would be more careful". Like I said, this was my initial reaction from which I quickly recovered. The epiphany that I immediately experienced was profound! I was suddenly very glad that Lee had left those greasy spots all over those speific areas of the house.....in fact, I loved that it had happened! All those little spots were reminders that Lee can now work in his little shop behind the house. They were reminders that he is stronger, that he has not had to have oxygen in almost two years, and that he now has a quality of life that he enjoys. Those spots of grease were a reminder that God had answered the prayers that I had so fervently lifted up during those long months of his illness and recovery. The prayer that I would again be able to see him go in and out of the house with no dependency on oxygen, and that he would once again be able to work and enjoy his life.
I looked at Lee as he apologized for the mess. I hugged him and told him "Thank- you". His look was quizzical as I smiled, and answered, "It will be a joy to get on my knees to clean this grease! I will use the time wisely and give thanks along the way. It is O. K!"
More Later.....................................Brenda
I mentioned this to him and he found the grease on the bottom of his tennis shoes. He said that he had been working on a piece of equipment in his shop and had probably dropped some of the grease on the floor, stepped in it and tracked it through the house.
Of course, my first reaction was "how will I remove this grease?", and "I wish Lee would be more careful". Like I said, this was my initial reaction from which I quickly recovered. The epiphany that I immediately experienced was profound! I was suddenly very glad that Lee had left those greasy spots all over those speific areas of the house.....in fact, I loved that it had happened! All those little spots were reminders that Lee can now work in his little shop behind the house. They were reminders that he is stronger, that he has not had to have oxygen in almost two years, and that he now has a quality of life that he enjoys. Those spots of grease were a reminder that God had answered the prayers that I had so fervently lifted up during those long months of his illness and recovery. The prayer that I would again be able to see him go in and out of the house with no dependency on oxygen, and that he would once again be able to work and enjoy his life.
I looked at Lee as he apologized for the mess. I hugged him and told him "Thank- you". His look was quizzical as I smiled, and answered, "It will be a joy to get on my knees to clean this grease! I will use the time wisely and give thanks along the way. It is O. K!"
More Later.....................................Brenda
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Positive reports from Duke!
Lee and I returned to Duke on March 1st, for his routine testing. Even though his pulmonary function tests were still decreased, the percentage of decrease was only 1%. That is the good news....the bad news is that it has held at a 1% decrease for many months. Unfortunately, that may be an indication of scar tissue in his new lung from all the previous infections he has had and most of all from the round of rejection that he had in August and September of last year.
So...................because of this test, the pulmonary doctors ( and we were fortunate to have the two who are involved with the research in lung rejection), decided that it would be in Lee's best interest to begin a pro-active aggressive therapy of anti-rejection medication to hopefully prevent another round of rejection. As explained to us, they want to prevent his going into chronic rejection, which is usually irreversible and can be terminal. His current medication, Myfortic, was again doubled, and he is on an antibiotic three times weekly. Hopefully this will increases his chances of avoiding another round of rejection and prevent an exposure to infection due to the reduced immunity.
We are glad that he is being treated more aggressively and we are hoping this will lessen the persistant cough that has plagued him for the past six months. It will take Lee a couple of weeks to adjust to the increase in medication because in the beginning it seems to zap all his energy. He is aware of this and knows that eventually he will adjust. In the meantime, we are both aware that his immune system is more compromised and we will have to be more alert to his surroundings to people, and the early Spring with all the pollen surrounding us!
We did receive the good news on Monday that his biopsy was negative! No rejection, No infection! He will return to Duke in May for labs and a doctor visit. No Bronchoscopy this time! Our plans now are to coincide that visit on Friday, March 11 with our neice, Michelle Sever's graduation with her doctorate degree on Saturday morning. We will return home and celebrate Mother's Day on Sunday.
All in all, Lee is doing very well. He now looks more like he did prior to his illness, in that his weight gain is good. The good news from Duke was an approval for him to have his vegetable garden this year. He is restricted from using the tractor to plow the garden, but was given the o.k. to plant and harvest as long as he uses his industrial mask. He was delighted to get the approval and is looking forward to his garden and to working with his bees.
So now, we are enjoying our lives as they are....some restrictions, but so much better each day. We are grateful for every moment we have with our families and friends and for the ability to use our time wisely. Our family continues to grow............we are blessed!
More Later.....................................Brenda
So...................because of this test, the pulmonary doctors ( and we were fortunate to have the two who are involved with the research in lung rejection), decided that it would be in Lee's best interest to begin a pro-active aggressive therapy of anti-rejection medication to hopefully prevent another round of rejection. As explained to us, they want to prevent his going into chronic rejection, which is usually irreversible and can be terminal. His current medication, Myfortic, was again doubled, and he is on an antibiotic three times weekly. Hopefully this will increases his chances of avoiding another round of rejection and prevent an exposure to infection due to the reduced immunity.
We are glad that he is being treated more aggressively and we are hoping this will lessen the persistant cough that has plagued him for the past six months. It will take Lee a couple of weeks to adjust to the increase in medication because in the beginning it seems to zap all his energy. He is aware of this and knows that eventually he will adjust. In the meantime, we are both aware that his immune system is more compromised and we will have to be more alert to his surroundings to people, and the early Spring with all the pollen surrounding us!
We did receive the good news on Monday that his biopsy was negative! No rejection, No infection! He will return to Duke in May for labs and a doctor visit. No Bronchoscopy this time! Our plans now are to coincide that visit on Friday, March 11 with our neice, Michelle Sever's graduation with her doctorate degree on Saturday morning. We will return home and celebrate Mother's Day on Sunday.
All in all, Lee is doing very well. He now looks more like he did prior to his illness, in that his weight gain is good. The good news from Duke was an approval for him to have his vegetable garden this year. He is restricted from using the tractor to plow the garden, but was given the o.k. to plant and harvest as long as he uses his industrial mask. He was delighted to get the approval and is looking forward to his garden and to working with his bees.
So now, we are enjoying our lives as they are....some restrictions, but so much better each day. We are grateful for every moment we have with our families and friends and for the ability to use our time wisely. Our family continues to grow............we are blessed!
More Later.....................................Brenda
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Good Times!
Such a good time of the year for us! Even though it is the 28th of February, today is more like a day in early April. The temperature promises to rise to the 70's and Lee is enjoying every minute of it!
Earlier today, he enjoyed a visit to a neighbor, after going by the hardware store for supplies needed for some work on his orchard. Brother-in-law, Tom is with him this afternoon to help spray and prepare the fruit trees for Spring. Another friend will arrive later today to help him fertilize the blueberry bushes. He has enjoyed using the Ipad II to look up all sorts of ideas and things to use.
Isn't this amazing that I can even write how he is enjoying his life! This past week-end we celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary. Looking back at the one we had two years ago, I am afraid I was not convinced that we would celebrate another......we are truly blessed! We decided to enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the better restaurants, and were delighted to have a waiter who not only found us a table in a secluded area, away from the crowds, but a location that was perfect! We made a toast for 18 more!
Tomorrow we will leave for Duke for a follow-up bronchoscopy to again make sure that Lee is still out of rejection and to see if that lingering fungus infection is completely gone. We plan to stop along the way and visit some friends in a quaint little town called Walnut Cove. Will spend the night on Wednesday. and plan for the full day of clinic on Thursday. Friday morning we are looking forward to a breakfast at the Mad Hatters with Dennis and Betsy before returning home. The trips to Durham get easier as Lee gets stronger. We pack fewer things and his medications are somewhat less than a year ago. We have become more secure in these journeys.
When you cannot find me on the blog, it is a good thing! We are busy enjoying our lives once again and sometimes are too busy too write. Last week we celebrated our great grandson's first birthday, and next week we look forward to visiting our older grandson's new home for a house-warming. The ages of descendents are now one to twenty-five. This gives both of us incentive to linger a while longer!
More Later...........................Brenda
Earlier today, he enjoyed a visit to a neighbor, after going by the hardware store for supplies needed for some work on his orchard. Brother-in-law, Tom is with him this afternoon to help spray and prepare the fruit trees for Spring. Another friend will arrive later today to help him fertilize the blueberry bushes. He has enjoyed using the Ipad II to look up all sorts of ideas and things to use.
Isn't this amazing that I can even write how he is enjoying his life! This past week-end we celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary. Looking back at the one we had two years ago, I am afraid I was not convinced that we would celebrate another......we are truly blessed! We decided to enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the better restaurants, and were delighted to have a waiter who not only found us a table in a secluded area, away from the crowds, but a location that was perfect! We made a toast for 18 more!
Tomorrow we will leave for Duke for a follow-up bronchoscopy to again make sure that Lee is still out of rejection and to see if that lingering fungus infection is completely gone. We plan to stop along the way and visit some friends in a quaint little town called Walnut Cove. Will spend the night on Wednesday. and plan for the full day of clinic on Thursday. Friday morning we are looking forward to a breakfast at the Mad Hatters with Dennis and Betsy before returning home. The trips to Durham get easier as Lee gets stronger. We pack fewer things and his medications are somewhat less than a year ago. We have become more secure in these journeys.
When you cannot find me on the blog, it is a good thing! We are busy enjoying our lives once again and sometimes are too busy too write. Last week we celebrated our great grandson's first birthday, and next week we look forward to visiting our older grandson's new home for a house-warming. The ages of descendents are now one to twenty-five. This gives both of us incentive to linger a while longer!
More Later...........................Brenda
Friday, February 10, 2012
Springter? and ?Noro virus?
O.K. Just a new word from me. I have been mulling over words to describe the seasons we have been experiencing. Since we have been swinging from Spring to early Summer and now back to maybe Winter, it just sounded like it fit.
As you have probably guessed, we are doing just fine! So wonderful to be able to casually say that! We are enjoying every moment we now have that seems normal. I really need to put some pictures on here for you to see how good Lee looks! Bad thing is, I haven't made any new pictures and have been very lazy in that regard. I'm afraid I have become very dependent on my daughter to make all the photos and send them to me, but she has been extremely busy since Christmas. Maybe we will catch up soon.
I wIsh I could report that Lee is back to "business as usual"; however, that will not be a part of his life again. He has been very good at adapting to a new lifestyle and seems to be on the go every day. He does find a lot of projects to do as he gets stronger. As for me, somedays I write a lot, other days I will sandwich in some reading, practicing the piano between the housework, laundry, cooking, etc. Life goes on.............
Last week I was fortunate to be able to meet my sister for lunch on Wednesday, on Thursday an unexpected phone call while shopping, found me at lunch with two friends, and on Friday morning I had breakfast with my retired colleagues from CVCC. We try to meet for breakfast the first Friday of each month. I was happy to be able to attend this one since I have missed so many. Friday night we attended our SS class dinner at our church. On Saturday I visited my daughter in Morganton and we, along with her two daughters had lunch together at a restaurant. Sunday, following church, Lee and I went out for lunch. I give you this detailed report because........the following Monday night, I had the dreaded stomach virus. It may have been the Norovirus. Anyway, I am supposing I got it from one of the six eating places! Fortunately, Lee has shown no symptoms and I am hoping he will not get it. Good thing is, he did not eat with me at the first five places!
Everyone who knows me is familiar with the way I usually shun eating out in restaurants, so this was a most unusual week for me. I sometimes go for a month or more without eating away from home! Now I realize why.....I usually get sick!
I have for many years accused Lee of having a "lead-lined" stomach and intestinal tract. I think this is to his advantage and for that I am grateful. I am fine now and the "bug" only lasted 24 hours!
This evening we are looking forward to celebrating our grandson, Will's birthday # 12! He lives in Morganton with his parents, Greg and Cathy. So, will close and get ready to leave.
More Later................................Brenda
As you have probably guessed, we are doing just fine! So wonderful to be able to casually say that! We are enjoying every moment we now have that seems normal. I really need to put some pictures on here for you to see how good Lee looks! Bad thing is, I haven't made any new pictures and have been very lazy in that regard. I'm afraid I have become very dependent on my daughter to make all the photos and send them to me, but she has been extremely busy since Christmas. Maybe we will catch up soon.
I wIsh I could report that Lee is back to "business as usual"; however, that will not be a part of his life again. He has been very good at adapting to a new lifestyle and seems to be on the go every day. He does find a lot of projects to do as he gets stronger. As for me, somedays I write a lot, other days I will sandwich in some reading, practicing the piano between the housework, laundry, cooking, etc. Life goes on.............
Last week I was fortunate to be able to meet my sister for lunch on Wednesday, on Thursday an unexpected phone call while shopping, found me at lunch with two friends, and on Friday morning I had breakfast with my retired colleagues from CVCC. We try to meet for breakfast the first Friday of each month. I was happy to be able to attend this one since I have missed so many. Friday night we attended our SS class dinner at our church. On Saturday I visited my daughter in Morganton and we, along with her two daughters had lunch together at a restaurant. Sunday, following church, Lee and I went out for lunch. I give you this detailed report because........the following Monday night, I had the dreaded stomach virus. It may have been the Norovirus. Anyway, I am supposing I got it from one of the six eating places! Fortunately, Lee has shown no symptoms and I am hoping he will not get it. Good thing is, he did not eat with me at the first five places!
Everyone who knows me is familiar with the way I usually shun eating out in restaurants, so this was a most unusual week for me. I sometimes go for a month or more without eating away from home! Now I realize why.....I usually get sick!
I have for many years accused Lee of having a "lead-lined" stomach and intestinal tract. I think this is to his advantage and for that I am grateful. I am fine now and the "bug" only lasted 24 hours!
This evening we are looking forward to celebrating our grandson, Will's birthday # 12! He lives in Morganton with his parents, Greg and Cathy. So, will close and get ready to leave.
More Later................................Brenda
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Spring in January?
We, along with all of you, and the rest of the U.S., have been somewhat baffled with the mild weather this Winter. I cannot remember a single January in my lifetime that was so mild. I have to admit that I have really enjoyed this mild season. It is very comfortable, it allows for more ventures out of doors and time to clean the yards. It is also comforting to know that those who have no home do not have to endure the extreme cold outdoors. How very sad to know that there are so many thousands of families in the U.S. who have no home.
Lee has been busy pruning his fruit trees and small vineyard in the backyard. He has been fortunate to have grandson, Jeffrey available to help him one to two days per week. He has been somewhat dismayed to see that his peach trees are beginning to bud. He said it would be a miracle if we had peaches this Summer. Nonetheless, it is so good to see him out of doors and able to help with some of this yardwork. Prior to his illness and since his retirement in 2005, he had planned and was able to plant his many apple trees, pear trees, and peach trees. In addition, he had begun a small vineyard for his muscadine vines. In 2008, he planted his blackberries and blueberry bushes. He now has his orchard, but it does require upkeep and maintenence. I might add, that if it is proliferative, it will require a lot of work on my part in preserving and freezing the bounty!
How wonderful it is to be able to write about our life as it is today! I honestly never thought we would be able to see Lee planning another day to work in the yard and to be pruning his trees and vines! This is truly a blessing! We do not miss a day without thankful prayers for the doctors and nurses and all the people who have helped Lee along the way.
As I write this blog, Lee is already outdoors at 9:15 this a.m. and he has plans for more projects during the afternoon hours. He never tires of planning and of having the energy to once again be working. Sometimes he finds it difficult to fall asleep at night because he is planning what to do the next day! He is looking forward to the Super Bowl on Sunday and to our grandson, John's thirteenth birthday party on Saturday evening.
And so it is, on this the last day of January, 2012, the weather promises to be sunny and warm @ 65 degrees, the days are getting a bit longer and Lee Kanipe is getting stronger and stronger. It is with great joy and a grateful heart that I end this month.
More Later...........................Brenda,
Lee has been busy pruning his fruit trees and small vineyard in the backyard. He has been fortunate to have grandson, Jeffrey available to help him one to two days per week. He has been somewhat dismayed to see that his peach trees are beginning to bud. He said it would be a miracle if we had peaches this Summer. Nonetheless, it is so good to see him out of doors and able to help with some of this yardwork. Prior to his illness and since his retirement in 2005, he had planned and was able to plant his many apple trees, pear trees, and peach trees. In addition, he had begun a small vineyard for his muscadine vines. In 2008, he planted his blackberries and blueberry bushes. He now has his orchard, but it does require upkeep and maintenence. I might add, that if it is proliferative, it will require a lot of work on my part in preserving and freezing the bounty!
How wonderful it is to be able to write about our life as it is today! I honestly never thought we would be able to see Lee planning another day to work in the yard and to be pruning his trees and vines! This is truly a blessing! We do not miss a day without thankful prayers for the doctors and nurses and all the people who have helped Lee along the way.
As I write this blog, Lee is already outdoors at 9:15 this a.m. and he has plans for more projects during the afternoon hours. He never tires of planning and of having the energy to once again be working. Sometimes he finds it difficult to fall asleep at night because he is planning what to do the next day! He is looking forward to the Super Bowl on Sunday and to our grandson, John's thirteenth birthday party on Saturday evening.
And so it is, on this the last day of January, 2012, the weather promises to be sunny and warm @ 65 degrees, the days are getting a bit longer and Lee Kanipe is getting stronger and stronger. It is with great joy and a grateful heart that I end this month.
More Later...........................Brenda,
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Simple Days
It is so foggy this morning that I feel like we may have been somehow transported to the "Milky Way" overnight! From my vantage point the outside looks rather ominous with the bare trees encased in the dense fog. This is one of those mornings when I am happy to be retired and do not have to venture out. Good news is that the sun will come out later today.
Speaking of going out.....Lee seems to be on the move daily. He has some plan each day that requires his leaving the house most of the morning and sometimes in the early afternoon. He has replaced work days on the farm with many days of rehab at the center, business ventures, and lots of errands to complete that sometimes include my lists. He has discovered that activity is his key to regaining his strength, and that he is able to include his socialization with the many others he knows during these outings.
As you can see, we did not return completely to our previous lifestyles. We did return to some changes that have become a major part of our daily activities. These are good changes. I have enjoyed having some extra time for reading, for writing, and for catching up on absence of contact with my many acquaintances. In addition, there have been some medical issues for me that have required the time that I did not have during Lee's illness. These were nothing serious, , mostly just follow-ups that had been delayed.
Today Lee will go by his physician's office for his routine labs, then he will have breakfast at Bojangles and will probably meet with some of his friends there. He has some family real estate business for transaction after that. Most of his morning will be filled with activities. This afternoon he will probably have his usual social hour with the "guys" in his "man cave" downstairs. It has become the custom for 4-6 of his farmer, neighbor buddies to meet with Lee 3-5 days a week. The former meeting place used to be his shop/garage in the backyard. Prior to Lee's illness, all these friends would meet daily at one of three areas Monday through Saturday. It always followed a day of intense work on someone's farm with the reward at the end of the day to include some refreshments and to catch up on the gossip of the community. There were other important issues to be discussed, of course, such as politics, and they became the experts on that subject.....controversial maybe.....but still they were the "experts". Nonetheless, they have continued their friendship for the past 10-25 years.
Well.............time for that last cup of coffee. Lee is finally up for the day so I will join him before he leaves.
More Later.............................Brenda
Speaking of going out.....Lee seems to be on the move daily. He has some plan each day that requires his leaving the house most of the morning and sometimes in the early afternoon. He has replaced work days on the farm with many days of rehab at the center, business ventures, and lots of errands to complete that sometimes include my lists. He has discovered that activity is his key to regaining his strength, and that he is able to include his socialization with the many others he knows during these outings.
As you can see, we did not return completely to our previous lifestyles. We did return to some changes that have become a major part of our daily activities. These are good changes. I have enjoyed having some extra time for reading, for writing, and for catching up on absence of contact with my many acquaintances. In addition, there have been some medical issues for me that have required the time that I did not have during Lee's illness. These were nothing serious, , mostly just follow-ups that had been delayed.
Today Lee will go by his physician's office for his routine labs, then he will have breakfast at Bojangles and will probably meet with some of his friends there. He has some family real estate business for transaction after that. Most of his morning will be filled with activities. This afternoon he will probably have his usual social hour with the "guys" in his "man cave" downstairs. It has become the custom for 4-6 of his farmer, neighbor buddies to meet with Lee 3-5 days a week. The former meeting place used to be his shop/garage in the backyard. Prior to Lee's illness, all these friends would meet daily at one of three areas Monday through Saturday. It always followed a day of intense work on someone's farm with the reward at the end of the day to include some refreshments and to catch up on the gossip of the community. There were other important issues to be discussed, of course, such as politics, and they became the experts on that subject.....controversial maybe.....but still they were the "experts". Nonetheless, they have continued their friendship for the past 10-25 years.
Well.............time for that last cup of coffee. Lee is finally up for the day so I will join him before he leaves.
More Later.............................Brenda
Monday, January 16, 2012
No Rejection!
We were both delighted and surprised to get our report from Duke. Delighted that Lee in NOT in rejection and surprised that we received the report the next day. Our experience in the past has been to get the report the following week, usually by Monday or Tuesday.
This was a relief because our conversation with the doctor on Thursday indicated that if he would show rejection again, the treatment this time would have to be another hospitilization @ Duke and the treatment would be with "horse" serum rather than the rabbit serum. This caused some anxiety on my part because I had been given access to some information regarding some others who had this treatment and it did have lots of complications. We are hopeful that the anti-rejection medications ( both the myfortic and the prednisone have been doubled ) are keeping his rejection under control. The down side of this much medicine is that it is very hard on the kidneys and the liver when maintained over a long period of time. His rejection began when he was either taken off some of his medicine in June of last year, or the dose had been reduced to one-half. At any rate, we are glad this is working now!
I will be getting my second cataract procedure on Wednesday. This will be eagerly anticipated! I have experienced some really bad headaches from eye strain on the cataract-affected eye, and a great deal of difficulty trying to drive at night! I discovered this nightmare when we were discharged from the clinic on Thursday, after dark, and I was the DD. My new lens showed a glare of haloes around the on-coming lights, and my cataract lens showed starburst. Because I had no depth perception at that time, I was a disaster behind the wheel! Somehow, I managed to get us to a local restaurant (Lee was starving....a long day with no food!) After we settled into the restaurant, he announced that he would be driving back (even though I had signed his release signifying I would be responsible for his not driving for 24 hours ), I did not argue with him and he drove the 4-5 blocks back to the condo. I know now that I absolutely will not drive at night until I get the other lens in place.
Actually, I am vey pleased with the restore lens! I can read with one eye, and discovered that I can read the piano music now with NO glasses..............I love it! Strange that now all our adult children are experiencing presbyopia (old age vision) while I am now experiencing normal eyesight. I even have to hold print closer to read! The bad news is that I am seeing for the first time an older me! In fact, I did not realize how blind I was until I began to see things I had missed. For example: While sitting in the clinic last Thursday, I happened to see something white on my favorite red winter jacket.....on closer inspection, I discovered it was part of the jacket's deterioration. By that, I mean, the jacket was literally coming apart in several places! I had not been able to see that! After that discovery, I began to look at the rest of my attire, and my comfortable tennis shoes showed more signs of wear and tear than I usually allow! I really do have nicer clothes, but always wear the most comfortable ones on our clinic days!
I am now shopping for another coat and some more comfortable sports shoes..........The others will just have to bite the dust!
More Later..............................Brenda
This was a relief because our conversation with the doctor on Thursday indicated that if he would show rejection again, the treatment this time would have to be another hospitilization @ Duke and the treatment would be with "horse" serum rather than the rabbit serum. This caused some anxiety on my part because I had been given access to some information regarding some others who had this treatment and it did have lots of complications. We are hopeful that the anti-rejection medications ( both the myfortic and the prednisone have been doubled ) are keeping his rejection under control. The down side of this much medicine is that it is very hard on the kidneys and the liver when maintained over a long period of time. His rejection began when he was either taken off some of his medicine in June of last year, or the dose had been reduced to one-half. At any rate, we are glad this is working now!
I will be getting my second cataract procedure on Wednesday. This will be eagerly anticipated! I have experienced some really bad headaches from eye strain on the cataract-affected eye, and a great deal of difficulty trying to drive at night! I discovered this nightmare when we were discharged from the clinic on Thursday, after dark, and I was the DD. My new lens showed a glare of haloes around the on-coming lights, and my cataract lens showed starburst. Because I had no depth perception at that time, I was a disaster behind the wheel! Somehow, I managed to get us to a local restaurant (Lee was starving....a long day with no food!) After we settled into the restaurant, he announced that he would be driving back (even though I had signed his release signifying I would be responsible for his not driving for 24 hours ), I did not argue with him and he drove the 4-5 blocks back to the condo. I know now that I absolutely will not drive at night until I get the other lens in place.
Actually, I am vey pleased with the restore lens! I can read with one eye, and discovered that I can read the piano music now with NO glasses..............I love it! Strange that now all our adult children are experiencing presbyopia (old age vision) while I am now experiencing normal eyesight. I even have to hold print closer to read! The bad news is that I am seeing for the first time an older me! In fact, I did not realize how blind I was until I began to see things I had missed. For example: While sitting in the clinic last Thursday, I happened to see something white on my favorite red winter jacket.....on closer inspection, I discovered it was part of the jacket's deterioration. By that, I mean, the jacket was literally coming apart in several places! I had not been able to see that! After that discovery, I began to look at the rest of my attire, and my comfortable tennis shoes showed more signs of wear and tear than I usually allow! I really do have nicer clothes, but always wear the most comfortable ones on our clinic days!
I am now shopping for another coat and some more comfortable sports shoes..........The others will just have to bite the dust!
More Later..............................Brenda
Sunday, January 8, 2012
A Home Town Sunday
Today as Lee and I were leaving to go to our church, I turned and looked at him. He looked so handsome in his new sports coat (one that fits and does not look so large!). It seems we both spoke at the same time, acknowledging how nice it was to be able to attend church again. Even though the weather was overcast with threatening rain, we felt the warmth of the day for the blessing of being able to resume our normal Sunday as before Lee's illness.
We are constantly aware of how important time is, and why we have to stop and speak of our deep appreciation of having that time once again. I suppose it is kin to the movie that Lee and I saw five or six years ago called "The Bucket List". At the time, we were only concerned about seeing two of our favorite actors portraying two senior guys and how they decided to spend the rest of their lives (which was, by the way, being shortened due to a diagnosis of cancer). Our anticipation was centered around the humorous aspects of the movie. It was only after we were leaving that the impact of what we had been watching really occurred to us...................time is valuable.................do what you most desire when the opportunities arise.
Looking back on the choices we made these past ten or so years, we are glad that we made those trips and did not wait for another time. We are glad we have spent so many wonderful weeks at the beach with our children and grandchildren. Lee is happy that he took that balloon ride many years ago when he visited his middle son in California. We have been fortunate to enjoy retirement, knowing that we were successful in our chosen careers, and that we gave it our best.
Looking ahead with the memories in the background, we still have things to do. Lee is committed to helping others along the way who may be experiencing the decision to have an organ transplant. He is also busy with some speaking engagements that encourage others to seriously consider becoming an organ donor. I, too, have become somewhat of an encourager to others based on my experience with cancer, and my time as a caregiver for Lee. We hope, that somehow, along our life's journey, we have had a positive influence on others we have met. We are grateful for all those who have had a positive influence on us as they have shared their life stories. Each day I listen as I hear Lee's prayers lifted up in thankfulness for yet another day. He doesn't ask for more, he has a grateful heart for all he has been given.
We will be returning to Duke next week for all the tests, etc. on January 12. This will require two overnights for us, and we plan to leave on Wednesday and return on Friday. It will be a very long day for Lee on Thursday: Clinic in a.m............see Dr. @ 1:00........bronchoscopy @ 3:15. We will probably be in the clinic from 8:00 a.m. through 7:00 pm. Good to stay at Duke Towers and get a restful night before returning.
I had my first cataract surgery this past Wednesday..............very pleased so far. Easy procedure! Unbelievable!
More Later...............................Brenda
We are constantly aware of how important time is, and why we have to stop and speak of our deep appreciation of having that time once again. I suppose it is kin to the movie that Lee and I saw five or six years ago called "The Bucket List". At the time, we were only concerned about seeing two of our favorite actors portraying two senior guys and how they decided to spend the rest of their lives (which was, by the way, being shortened due to a diagnosis of cancer). Our anticipation was centered around the humorous aspects of the movie. It was only after we were leaving that the impact of what we had been watching really occurred to us...................time is valuable.................do what you most desire when the opportunities arise.
Looking back on the choices we made these past ten or so years, we are glad that we made those trips and did not wait for another time. We are glad we have spent so many wonderful weeks at the beach with our children and grandchildren. Lee is happy that he took that balloon ride many years ago when he visited his middle son in California. We have been fortunate to enjoy retirement, knowing that we were successful in our chosen careers, and that we gave it our best.
Looking ahead with the memories in the background, we still have things to do. Lee is committed to helping others along the way who may be experiencing the decision to have an organ transplant. He is also busy with some speaking engagements that encourage others to seriously consider becoming an organ donor. I, too, have become somewhat of an encourager to others based on my experience with cancer, and my time as a caregiver for Lee. We hope, that somehow, along our life's journey, we have had a positive influence on others we have met. We are grateful for all those who have had a positive influence on us as they have shared their life stories. Each day I listen as I hear Lee's prayers lifted up in thankfulness for yet another day. He doesn't ask for more, he has a grateful heart for all he has been given.
We will be returning to Duke next week for all the tests, etc. on January 12. This will require two overnights for us, and we plan to leave on Wednesday and return on Friday. It will be a very long day for Lee on Thursday: Clinic in a.m............see Dr. @ 1:00........bronchoscopy @ 3:15. We will probably be in the clinic from 8:00 a.m. through 7:00 pm. Good to stay at Duke Towers and get a restful night before returning.
I had my first cataract surgery this past Wednesday..............very pleased so far. Easy procedure! Unbelievable!
More Later...............................Brenda
Monday, January 2, 2012
Winter 2012
Today we ushered in the first of cold weather, that will probably continue for the next three months. At least , that is the way it usually is. After a surprisingly warm December, this day, January 2, 2012 appears to be warning us that those warm days may just be a thing of the past. The sun is shining, but the bite in the air carries a chill. Guess we will turn on the gas logs tonight, and reset the electric blanket from 5 to 10!
Good news is that daughter, Julia was here over the week-end and now all of my Christmas is not only down, but neatly stored away until next year! She managed to accomplish in the span of 2-3 hours what would have taken me 2-3 days! After she completed that, she rewarded us with a batch of her wonderful home-made cookies! We were deliciously spoiled on New Year's Eve.
Having been caught-up in all the Holiday festivities, I failed to give you Lee's report from Duke. If you recall, our last trip there was for him to have another PH test to determine whether or not he was having reflux. The test confirmed that he WAS NOT. All tests were negative and he will not be having the stomach wrap. He was greatly relieved.
Wednesday of this week, I will be having the cataract surgery. I have elected to have the Restore lens. Hopefully, this will eliminate the necessity for glasses. My second lens implant will be on Jan. 18. My selected physician holds a record for his 6 minute procedure. A little Versed, and six minutes later I should be good to go! Wow! This procedure is way ahead of the dentist on the apprehension and pain scale! No need to be apprehensive for something that only lasts 6 minutes....and pain.....none according to my friends who have had the procedure, including Lee. We will return to Duke on January 29th for Lee's clinic and bronchoscopy on the 30th. After spending that night, we will return home on the 31st. As you can see, this is beginning to be a busy month for both of us.
Tomorrow will be our grandson, Alex's, 9th birthday.....Happy Birthday Alex! His will be followed on February 1st. by John, turning 13, and on February 10th by Will, turning 12. We have many tween and teen boys now! In addition, our great grandson, Easton, will celebrate his 1st birthday on February 25th. We will be attending many birthday celebrations during these first months of this year.
As you can see, we have so much to look forward to. We enter this new year with hopes and promises of good days ahead. We wish the same for you!
More Later................................Brenda
Good news is that daughter, Julia was here over the week-end and now all of my Christmas is not only down, but neatly stored away until next year! She managed to accomplish in the span of 2-3 hours what would have taken me 2-3 days! After she completed that, she rewarded us with a batch of her wonderful home-made cookies! We were deliciously spoiled on New Year's Eve.
Having been caught-up in all the Holiday festivities, I failed to give you Lee's report from Duke. If you recall, our last trip there was for him to have another PH test to determine whether or not he was having reflux. The test confirmed that he WAS NOT. All tests were negative and he will not be having the stomach wrap. He was greatly relieved.
Wednesday of this week, I will be having the cataract surgery. I have elected to have the Restore lens. Hopefully, this will eliminate the necessity for glasses. My second lens implant will be on Jan. 18. My selected physician holds a record for his 6 minute procedure. A little Versed, and six minutes later I should be good to go! Wow! This procedure is way ahead of the dentist on the apprehension and pain scale! No need to be apprehensive for something that only lasts 6 minutes....and pain.....none according to my friends who have had the procedure, including Lee. We will return to Duke on January 29th for Lee's clinic and bronchoscopy on the 30th. After spending that night, we will return home on the 31st. As you can see, this is beginning to be a busy month for both of us.
Tomorrow will be our grandson, Alex's, 9th birthday.....Happy Birthday Alex! His will be followed on February 1st. by John, turning 13, and on February 10th by Will, turning 12. We have many tween and teen boys now! In addition, our great grandson, Easton, will celebrate his 1st birthday on February 25th. We will be attending many birthday celebrations during these first months of this year.
As you can see, we have so much to look forward to. We enter this new year with hopes and promises of good days ahead. We wish the same for you!
More Later................................Brenda
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