Unfortunately Gary has lost a few more pounds since January 17th. The scales at the hospital showed a loss of six pounds, but we think a couple of pounds were due to his wearing lighter clothing this week. We were hoping to at least stabilize his weight, but couldn't make it happen.
He is showing more reactions to the chemo and radiation. He is still nauseous in spite of taking medication to help stop it, has constant diarrhea, has stomach pain quite frequently and always weak. According to Dr Leo, the cancer, chemo and radiation are all causing the weight loss. He is doing better at eating, but so much of the food tastes different than it did before his treatment, so sometimes it is hard for him to eat enough to gain weight. We will continue to try to get as much nourishment down him as we can.
His treatments will last the rest of this week and next week. After that they will wait several weeks before they do another CT Scan to see how the treatments are working. Dr Leo said he could give him testosterone which could help him gain weight. He also wants Gary to work with light weights to help build some muscle back.
Thank you everyone for your comments. He is reading them and feeling good that people care. Some of you he has not seen or talked to in years and it means a lot to hear from you. He really enjoys the cards, phone calls, personal visits, offers of help and food (although I think I appreciate the food more than he does). Thank you also for all your prayers.
Jannis
Keel, talked to 'The Hawk' on Facebook the other day, he gave me this website. Tried to send you a message, hope this one sticks. I said if you'd come try to crawl through my window I think it might scare those bad cells out. Long ago, long ago. Hated to hear you're struggling with your health, can only think of you as backing up two steps and shooting over them. Stay strong, you were always a pretty good 'rebounder' too. 'The Duke'
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about Gary's illness. Glad he's got the loving support of his family and friends. I'll keep you all in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteCarrie Kallenbach Gordon
I was very glad to find your blog so we can keep updated. We have been thinking about you and are keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteDan and Nancy Ellis
How are y'all coping with the cold? I know when I had my bout with cancer that year in Nebraska, I thought the cold would get me before the cancer. Stay warm. I recommend a recliner with heat and vibration in front of a fireplace with a big screen TV! Eat lots!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Rick
Just read about your battle, Gary. Keep fighting and know that old friends are thinking of you and remembering you in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteHard to believe that our 50th class reunion is coming up this year. Good memories from those happy days.
Your friend,
Judy (Pedersen) Cooper