Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Catching Up

On Monday, we returned to UCLA and met Dr. K for the first time. He took his time to explain all the treatment options with us, and went into detail about HDIL-2. We told him that's what we want to do and he agreed that it was a good idea. Before we can begin that treatment, Michael must be seen by a cardiologist and a pulmonologist so that they can make sure his heart and lungs are healthy enough for the HDIL-2 treatment. He also needs to have some blood work, a CT of the pelvis, abdomen, and chest, a full-body bone scan, and a brain scan. We're waiting for those referrals to the cardiologist and pulmonologist to be approved. Hopefully all those tests can be completed next week. So, it looks like we are two or three weeks from the start of treatment.

Yesterday, we saw Michael's gastroenterologist. He recommended that Michael up his Prilosec dosage to twice a day, and start taking Claritin twice a day as well. He also ordered an upper GI. We are looking into whether or not Michael's cough is related to acid reflux. If it is, then perhaps he can get some relief for it. If it's not that, then it may be due to the mets in his lungs, and we'll have to hope that the HDIL-2 will get rid of it. Poor guy! The cough just exhausts him.

Then, last night, I sold my Highlander to a very nice gentleman for a very fair price. I only had to come down $250 from my asking price. I am going to drive a Honda Accord that Michael's friend gave us for a while. The proceeds from the sale are going towards eliminating some of the debt we incurred during our fertility treatments. I am going to work really hard to pay off the rest of my credit card debt, and my student loans over the next couple of years a la Dave Ramsey - my financial guru. I can't wait to be debt free!

This morning, Michael saw my optometrist for the first time. I thought for sure he would need a prescription for eyeglasses, but he doesn't. She said his eyesight is good, and that his eyes are healthy. Thank goodness! One less thing to worry about.

I sat down with my new principal this afternoon to get acquainted and tell her all about my current situation. I think I'm going to like working with her. She seemed very understanding and supportive. I asked if there was going to be a third grade class for me to teach, and she said she didn't think so, but that once the school office opens next week people will be coming in and enrolling their children. So, there's a small chance. I told her I'd happily move back down to third grade even at the last moment, and she seemed okay with that. We'll see. I know I have a nice fourth grade class with good kids and supportive parents. So, even if I have to stay at fourth grade, it may work out just fine. It's out of my hands. I just need to accept it.

I'll be going into school tomorrow and Friday to start organizing my classroom. I should be able to get a lot done because there won't be anyone there to distract me! I spent a few minutes in my room today, and there's just something about an empty classroom that gets me excited about a new school year. I'm kind of looking forward to it.

6 comments:

Alyson and Ford said...

Truthfully...
I'm in awe of what you have already done. What you have still to do. And through it all, your faith doesn't just guide you, it radiates from you.
peace
fm

Tamara said...

I'm so happy the way things are working out for you and Michael.

Have you considered that maybe there's a "GOD" reason for you being moved up to being a fourth grade teacher? Just a thought...

Hugz

Jill said...

Wonderful to hear that his treatment plan is underway.

I'm with you on the getting out of debt. Alex and I have decided that I will drive my car until at least April...that's when we should be totally out of debt (minus the house). I can't wait for April to get here...will be so nice to be debt free!

Praying for you this school year! :)

((hugs))

Kim said...

Sounds like things are going well.. but it is because you are totally on top of things..
you are amazing..
Have a great school year.. and hopefully all the test get scheduled quickly so you can start on the meds...
The sooner the better..
HUGS..
keep your chin up ..things are looking up..

Kate said...

It sounds like you are in good spirits and that things are working out for Michael to get the best care available. I am so glad. You all remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Best wishes,

Kate

Kate said...

sweet Joannah,
you are superwoman I swear. I am glad things are moving ahead with Michael's treatment,and I hope the coughing is reflux simply because it is more simple and more immediate and less frightening then to think it is the cancer. And I am sorry there are test and tests and tests before "treatment" can begin, but this is treatment too, it is the groundwork. And you-- you rock lady. Good for you for your dedication to debt reduction! I got debt free a few years back (except the house) and it felt like I had lost a million pounds of crap I had been dragging around with me. I wish on you the same lightness. And So glad your principal is an understanding person. I think the empty classroom probably feels like a room of potential, which is a great thing! blank canvas-- I cannot believe the summer has moved by so quickly.
Take good care of your wonderful self each day. Make sure you attend to your needs too, even for just a few minutes. It gets so easy to externalize our attention, but you need to let some in as well.

sending love,
Kate