Wes Updates

Wednesday, 9 April 2008

One year...
Mood:

happy
Now Playing: From Wes
Topic: Update

Another update on the first anniversary of my blood-cell transplant & the outcome of my appointments at the U of M Medical Center on Wednesday, March 26, 2008, if interested?

Since several of you had asked before my appointment or inquired about the outcome, I'll try to keep it brief, sharing the prognosis from my doctor that day. Beginning with a lower lip biopsy taken right after my return from Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, on March 13, to confirm my doctor's suspicions about whether symptoms showed me to have Chronic Graft VS Host Disease, or not? GVHD is common in about 70% of

transplant patients & if it's early in recovery, it's labeled Acute GVHD, while later (within the first year or more), it's considered Chronic GVHD. I've had off & on side-effects since I left the twin cities last May, & the lab results confirmed it to be Chronic GVHD, including a 20-pound weight loss since my last visit at the BMT Clinic in early December. Although serious, & even deadly, if not treated, I left there with 2 new

prescriptions, one for PREDNISONE (a steriod) & the other for a new antibiotic, adding to my medications for heart problems, my immune system, swelling & joint pain. He told me my appetite should improve, to get me back to a normal weight, plus he recommended I continue with my supervised physical therapy sessions.

The vitals check, blood draws & bone-marrow biopsy #10 (where pieces of bone & fluids are taken from my hip), showed good results, for which I was grateful. After 12 days on Prednisone & the new antibiotic, I seem to feel better each day, with no swelling in my hands or feet, & minimal joint pain. I haven't noticed any increased appetite or weight gain yet, but try to eat healthy & normal throughout the day. I meet 2-3

times a week with the Pelican Rapids physical therapist, to gain strength, & practice some "at home" exercises in between the therapy sessions; he says he notices improvement as he checks pulse/heart rate. Although my night-time sleep is often interrupted, I get 8 hours of sleep & avoid naps, which I seemed to need previously. I return for a May 21 appointment, to find out what effects this treatment procedure has

produced, & may see my cardiologist at the U of M Medical Center also, to determine heart-related problems since December. There are numerous side-effects from taking Prednisone, but my doctor assured me that it's been used for over 50 years, & is the best way to counter GVHD, for which I'm hopeful, even if I eventually have a "puffy" look to my face?

After a Sunday snowfall here which gave us about 10 inches of heavy, wet stuff, I am catching up on my income taxes, necessary paperwork & correspondence this week. Even the local school was closed on Monday, so my neighbor, who is a teacher, cleared my driveway & walkways. Some of you may have read or watched TV reports of a tragedy that struck our community last Saturday, with a 16-year old girl killed as the result of a bus crash. The 80 students & chaperones were returning from a band trip to Chicago where they'd performed, when the lead charter bus left the freeway NW of Minnespolis & flipped over into the ditch, leaving several injurned, as well. Some are still hospitalized in twin city's hospitals & the community is "in shock" as prepartions are made for her funeral Friday afternoon at the high school here. Her father is my barber, & has been for 15+ years, while her mom is also a hair stylist in town. She had a sister who is a senior at PRHS & a brother who is in 6th grade at the elementary school. Brother Al & I plan to attend the prayer service at their church in town Thursday afternoon/evening. A parents' worst nightmare, to lose a child, but through it all the family expressed concern for others who were injured.

For you who have "stayed with my report", I appreciate your continuous concern, encouragement & prayers. Thank you! I wish time allowed me to respond in a more personal manner, but know how much it's meant to me during the past 18 months, whether in a hospital, the U of M apartment, or back here at my lake home. I'm looking forward to another meltdown... with warmer temperatures, a sunny sky & what I

hope will be a more normal spring & summer. THINK SPRING....and SUMMMER will certainly follow....

There's My best to all of you from Wes

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 11:53 AM CDT
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Saturday, 15 March 2008

Clinic update
Mood:

chillin'
Now Playing: Back home... finally.
Topic: Update

Got back from Cabo late Tuesday, stayed at John's place.

Left Wednesday morning for appointment with accountant, then off to Ed & Martha Karels' place.

Thursday morning 'tongue biopsy' at the U of M (results yet to be determined), then on the road north.

Spent Friday mostly unpacking and getting caught up on things after being away for two weeks. The cats seem to like me being back...

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 8:15 AM CDT
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Thursday, 13 March 2008

Post-Cabo Rantings...
Mood:

lazy
Now Playing: Mexico Trip
Topic: Update

Sunday, March 2nd: arrived with son John - stayed in old, quaint hotel in downtown San Jose del Cabo, chatted with lots of friendly people from all over, art gallery visit, mostly took it easy.

Monday, March 3rd: met son Joel at airport - ran into Ann Dosch, shuttled to Finisterra, checked into room, unpacked, got acclimated, hung around the resort and pool remainder of the day.

Tuesday through Thursday: Cabo San Lucas - Lazy mornings, day trips to Marina and downtown, plenty of sun at the pool, dinners out, walking and shopping improving stamina, rest and relaxation.

Friday, March 7th: Joel goes home - time flies fast down here, got a massage, manicure and pedicure, packed way too much stuff.

Saturday and Sunday: more R & R - took a boat taxi to the main beach, explored more around town, met the Dos XX girls, lots of sun.

Monday, March 10th: tour other resorts - breakfast at Playa Grande turned into a fullscale presentation, by 3 pm was proud owner of a timeshare at Solmar.

Tuesday, March 11th: stayed at Solmar - after checking out of Finisterra yesterday, moved down the beach to Solmar, spent last two days there.

RECAP: What started with apprehension turned into a lovely, much-needed vacation.

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 9:14 AM CDT
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Wednesday, 13 February 2008

Wednesday, February 13th
Mood:

bright
Now Playing: BMT Clinic Highlights
Topic: Update

Wes/Dad wants me to post, so that he doesn't have to repeat this over-n-over again...

Clinic visit went well! Described the symptoms I'm experiencing, answered doctor's questions, batted around a few theories. Those of you who got my belated Christmas letter know what I'm talking about... Doc and Kathy (Nurse Coordinator) both agreed I looked better (less purple), the rash was much better/gone in most places, and they were sympathetic to the request that 'I'm sick and tired of feeling sick and tired." Son John and my friend Ed Karels accompanied me - Connie (Malmquist) Vanderhulst also joined us for lunch while we waited for test results.

Blood work came back great. Vitals fine. Weight steady (sort of). Doc determined that I need a 'Minor Mouth Biospy' for him to determine once-and-for-all whether I have Chronic Graft-Versus-Host-Disease (GVHD). Told me they'd have known right away after the transplant if it was the acute version of GVHD, so good news there. Trying to schedule that test for pre-Cabo departure, but limited time available so will see...

They signed a referral for me to start Physical Therapy (PT) with Craig in Pelican Rapids. Stopped one of my perscriptions (a determining factor that I might have GVHD), re-started another (Bactrim). Talked about my diet and exercise routines. Found out I wasn't diabetic, suffering from depression, mixing the wrong medications, lacked calcium, or any of the other diagnoses people had been kicking around. They gave me the "Green Light" for a vacation to Cabo ("drink only bottled water, use sun screen, and what happens in Cabo stays in Cabo...").

My final one-year transplant follow-up visit is scheduled for mid-March. Another bone biopsy, more tests, with the ultimate goal of them saying "congrats, we don't need to see you again for another year, do the rest of your follow-ups in Fargo." If it turns out I do have GVHD, they will need to put me on limited steriod meds and I might need to have the clinic in Pelican do blood test more often, but we'll cross that bridge when/if we come to it...

All in all, feeling much better (mentally) about narrowing down whats been ailing me lately. Excited to start PT and get some strength/stamina back. Also excited to get out of Coldsville and bask in the warmth of Mexico...

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 3:54 PM CST
Updated: Thursday, 14 February 2008 8:15 AM CST
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Friday, 26 October 2007

Back by popular demand...
Mood:

a-ok
Now Playing: No gnus is good news?
Topic: Update

Got a new baby grand piano - taking first lesson this weekend.

Next BMT clinic appointment is November 8th - hoping they figure out swollen joints and listlessness.

Docks and lifts are out of the lake - puttering with other pre-winter chores.

Agreed to a March '08 vacation in Cabo with son John - had to apply for new passport.

Getting back into the swing of "regular" life - cancer support group, church choir, card parties, pantry engineering, etc.

Feel free to call Wes: (218) 863-8119 just to say "hi"

or email him: wesonlida@loretel.net

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 7:33 AM CDT
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Sunday, 12 August 2007

Stop the presses!
Mood:

a-ok
Now Playing: Preview of Pelican Rapids Press article
Topic: Update

Twins Warren and Wes Schierman grew up in Pelican Rapids during the 50's. Warren (on left in main photo and in top small photo) lives in Fargo and works at MeritCare Center.

Wes lives on Lake Lida, retired after 30+ years as an art teacher in the Burnsville school system.Warren provided the needed stem cells for a transplant to his brother Wes during

his leukemia treatment in March at the University of Minnesota Medical Center.

Blood brothers by Kelly Gorman

Wes Schierman, rural Pelican Rapids, has really been through the ringer in the last ten months. Seemingly in perfect health last summer, the only sign that anything was wrong was that he was rejected as a

blood donor because his iron (red blood cell count) level was too low by just a point. He was advised to eat more foods rich in iron content, including liver, fish, etc. After stomaching more tuna than he would prefer,

his blood was rejected again for the same reason a few weeks later.

"Last September was a miserable month," he said. "I had pain and swelling in my joint areas and was very fatigued."

After a course of visits with the local clinic and then an appointment with a hemotologist/oncologist in Fargo, test results showed he had something in the leukemia family. The chemotherapy treatments that followed, including bone marrow biopsies and the eventual stem cell transplant, taught him several lessons.

"The message is not to ignore even minor signs of your health because something more serious might be wrong," Wes said.

He also expressed his sincere appreciation for the concern and support of the community he grew up in, and lives in now. Neighbors, friends, family and care-givers were there for him, and the bonds between his

siblings, his sons and other family brought everyone closer. Treatment for his leukemia in Fargo brought a new closeness between him and his fraternal twin, Warren. Although it was Warren who was selected,

Wes shared that his sister, Verna, and his brother, Al, also tested to be compatible donors, but Warren stepped forward and almost insisted that he be the donor.

"I'd do the same thing for anybody," said Warren.

In October, 2006, Wes had an appointment at the Roger Maris Cancer Center in Fargo in their oncology department. He was admitted to the hospital where he was given blood, stablized and ended up staying for

seven days of chemotherapy treatment. During the chemo infusion, he developed some complications from an infection, which also affected his heart. This required transfer to the Intensive Care Unit to stablize

him. Shortly after the resolution of some of the heart issues, he developed shortness of breath and was transferred to the Cardiac Care Unit at MeritCare. His time there was labeled by doctors as "turbulent" and

he had to make use of a ventilator, several I.V. infusions and was sedated for over a week. Eventually he had to make use of a feeding tube and undergo speech, swallowing and physical therapy.

A secondary diagnosis determined that chronic myelomonocytic leukemia was actually acute myeloid leukemia, a more advanced form of leukemia. Wes said the the doctors decided he would probably need a

bone marrow transplant from a donor, to get beyond the remission stage. That whole phase of transplantation treatment was presented to Wes and his son, John, during a consultation with the head oncologist at

the bone marrow clinic transplant clinic (BMT) at the University of Minnesota. The procedure required one to qualify as a candidate, and Wes was given little reason to believe it was a guaranteed success, even if a

donor "match" was available. Surprisingly, all three siblings qualified, which is preferable to a match from one's child, since all the genes are shared. Warren was selected because his "count" was extremely good

and because of his willingness to participate.

Wes acknowledged how little most people, including himself, knew little of leukemia conditions and treatments. He recalled getting cards from well-wishers asking when his surgery for the transplant would take

place. Bone marrow transplants are actually done with small instruments without any major operation involved. A tiny drill and syringe were used to extract the stem cells from Warren's blood. Over the course of

a day and a half, blood was drawn, separated and re-entered into Warren's blood stream. Having to lay perfectly still was the most difficult part, according to Warren. The collected stem cells were eventually put

into Wes through an I.V. while hospitalized, taking about 45 minutes.

He has lost his hair twice, lost weight and the ability to eat solid foods for awhile, but he appears to have gained some of it back. He faced life-threatening circumstances these past months, but as the recipient of

selfless love and care from family and friends, his recovery was described as miraculous by the medical staff. Throughout it all, Wes has drawn strength from his late wife, Mary, and from his belief that he's been

kept alive for some reason.

"I thought I was prepared for most anything, based on the year his wife battled her cancer, Mesothelioma, an asbestos related cancer in the lining of the lungs, but this was all new to me," Wes said.

He lost Mary two years after her diagnosis in June, 2005, but her positive outlook, despite the inevitable outcome was encouraging to him and many others. "Because she accepted her own fate, it was hard for me

to stay in denial", Wes said.

Wes embraced the odds and the long process required to treat his form of leukemia by saying, "If you get me through his, God, you must want me to go further...you must have a "plan" for me."

Warren repeated this sentiment saying that the family leaned on the power of prayer during the past weeks and months. He said there was one point where the doctors were doubtful Wes would make it through.

So far Wes's recovery, which is slated to take a full year following the March 16 transplant, is about half over, with his next clinic visit scheduled for mid-September. He commented on his different outlook on life,

which helps keep life's circumstances in perspective. "Sometimes I just have to say, you what, I don't care about some things that were once so important to me."

Day-to-day frustrations, several restrictions, schedules, the weather, bill-paying all come after the thought that he could just as easily not be here today.

"It's become easier to prioritze the important stuff, he said, and I want to stay positive and grateful in my attitude."

He had given up some foods and beverages that the doctors recommended in his diet, but he's also found a few tastes to his liking. His lifestyle is less restricted today, but he still needs to avoid direct sunlight,

and any chores that might cause an infection (bacterial or fungal), so lawn and garden work, plus filling bird-feeders are still not allowed. Because of his weight loss, he was instructed to eat more, and eat better!.

A lot of people would like to hear their doctor tell them to eat more, wouldn't they, he quipped.

As a foot-note to this article, Wes joined his wife at the monthly Cancer Support Group 3 years ago as a care-giving spouse of a cancer victim, that met every second Wednesday. It's "open" to all Pelican

Rapids area residents, and meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Social Room at Trinity Lutheran Church. It's an uplifting gathering of cancer survivors, people taking treatment, spouses or family members, so consider it

as a group someone might benefit from through the year, and invite them, or accompany them to the local Cancer Support Group the second Wednesday of each month

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 12:44 AM CDT
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Friday, 3 August 2007

Email from Wes
Mood:

happy
Topic: Update
null

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 9:27 AM CDT
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Sunday, 15 July 2007

Where's Waldo?
Mood:

happy
Now Playing: Third-person soliloquy
Topic: Update

Dad was discharged from the U of M hospital late Friday afternoon, after spending the week undergoing an assortment of tests. His team of doctors seemed a bit mystified about the cause of his digestive problems & weren't certain it was symptomatic of Graft vs. Host Disease (GVHD)? He was de-hydrated, with weight loss (down 19 to 155# on Monday) & low blood-pressure. To help stabilize him he was given continuous IV infusions of saline solution at the BMT clinic before transferring him back to 4th floor (leukemia ward) in the hospital.

Tuesday throught Thursday he had a flex-sig "scope," ultra sound of his kidneys & an MRI of kidneys & bladder. Gastro-intestinal specialists studied the results of the tests, samples & vitals to determine what was causing the diarrhea, de-hydration, weight loss, fluctuating blood-pressure & loss of appetite. It wasn't until early afternoon Friday that his leukemia Oncologist announced their findings & suspicions. By then his weight was up to 160# (mostly fluids) & most "readings" close to normal, based on blood samples.

Whether GVHD was the culprit or not, the prognosis was 1) an inflammation of the lining of the bowel; 2) an infection, probably from within his system, in the colon. They wouldn't "label" it colitis, but prescribed an anti-inflammatory medication, two antibiotics, & continued use of imodium to help control the diarrhea. He was told to stay in the Twin Cities area through the weekend & report back to the BMT Clinic by 10:30 am Monday, July 16th.

He's been staying with me, son John (who is typing this explanation for dad), in Chaska, & told me Saturday was the best he's felt in the last month! He needs to drink plenty of fluids but his appetite doesn't allow him more than small portions of food. The Dietician placed no (immediate) resrictions on his diet, but that may change Monday? He sleeps through the night & has avoided daytime naps, unlike frequent napping while hospitalized. He's optimistic his "pick-line" will get "pulled" out Monday & that he'll be free to return to his lake home after his clinic appointments that day.

Ed Karels, his friend & former teaching colleague, will drive him home & stay to help with garden chores during this mid-July height of blooms-n-weeds. He may have to return July 25 for an original appointment (scheduled back on June 20) but will definitely see a Gastro-Intestinal specialist at the University on July 31. Another flex-sig probe (similar to being obducted by aliens) is scheduled for August, so his time at home will be interrupted again. Some medications have been stopped while 4 new ones were added for a total of 18 per day, & some "activity" restrictions are still "in place."

To those who had hoped to connect with him via telephone and/or e-mail, his stamina the last 4 weeks has made even social conversation exhausting. His blood pressure was so low, together with dehydration, he "blacked out" once while still home last weekend. Be patient, he's told, as recovery will be slow, so he asks your patience, should it appear he's not "up to" normal socializing or regular activities? Although discouraged by this set-back, he knows your prayers-of-concern & well wishes have helped before, & expects God's Will should see him through these "bumps." Thank you, again!

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 8:05 PM CDT
Updated: Sunday, 15 July 2007 8:51 PM CDT
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Monday, 9 July 2007

Two steps forward, one step back...
Mood:

irritated
Now Playing: Back to the U of M
Topic: Update

Brought Dad back to the U of M BMT Clinic yesterday to figure out what's the matter with him: lost 19 pounds in 2-3 weeks, can't eat/drink without it running straight thru him, etc.

They admitted him to the hospital: low blood pressure, kidney problems, dehydrated, etc. Not sure if it's GVHD, systemic infection, or what, but they're going run a boatload of tests. He's "about 5 quarts low" on liquids so they're pumping him full of saline via an IV.

I'm sure they'll figure it out...

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 12:01 AM CDT
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Thursday, 5 July 2007

Late Update
Mood:

chillin'
Now Playing: Copy of Email from Wes
Topic: Update

It's afternoon, Wednesday, June 27, & I'm relunctantly sending this update, for fear some of you are tired of hearing about my recovery & health issues? However, enough of you

have e-mailed, sent postal notes or called to inquire how my June 20 appointments went with lab. work, vitals, bone-marrow biopsy, chest X-ray, consultations with a cardiologist

& my regular physician, so I'll try keep it simple. Since my return after the June 6 appointments, with excellent results, I began experiencing some physical changes, but decided it

was the effects of 16 pills per day, or something temporary? On June 20, my doctor exam & accompanying questions about eating habits, etc., showed a rash on my torso area,

plus I'd had on & off diarrhea for over a week. He concluded that my "condition" was probably Chronic Graft vs. Host Disease, since I had about half of the dozen or so symptoms.

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) can occur at anytime during the 100-day post stem-cell transplant, but when it's later it's usually the chronic type, with twice as many symptoms.

I just reached my 100-days so I thought I'd survived the worst of post bone-marrow transplantation side-effects? But this complication in which the transplanted stem cells cause my

new immune system to attack my own body cells & tissue, seems to be the culprit of my discomfort these past 2 weeks? If necessary, I'll begin taking Prednisone, alternating with

the Cyclosporine (Gengraf) I've been on for the past 100 days. Both the doctor & coordinating nurse are optimistic I'll "work through" this, even if it is some kind of infection? Help!

Ironically, ALL the results of my June 20 blood draw, biopsy & regular tests came back with NORMAL or EXCELLENT "readings", including my heart, chest X-ray, blood pressure

& weight. My doctor asked me to report back to clinic on July 25, & my cardiologist wants me back in 6 months for an Echocardiogram/ consultation, so I'm not-out-of-the woods as

soon as I'd expected? This last week I've experienced some joint pain, abdominal discomfort, skin rash, shortness of breath with activity, dry mouth & continuous diarrhea, which

means I don't stray far from home. I eat small amounts throughout the day, drink plenty of fluids, sleep 9+ hours each night, with daytime naps, & a lack of energy which means daily

tasks are acomplished, but not much more. I'm not very good company, as of late, rarely use the phone, to save my voice, & have avoided dining "out" somewhat. I am not gaining

any weight, but maintaining my 175# & my temperature has ranged from 97.8 to 99.4 the last three days. My coordinating nurse & I have e-mailed back & forth, plus telephone

calls inbetween, & her "lectures" always include reminders to eat normally, take rests when necessary, & any infection should clear up, in time. I apologize for "producing" another

"book", but decided more than family & neighbors might be interested in why I haven't returned to normal....yet? As always, THANK YOU for your continued concern, & wishes for

renewed health. I've been told, more than once, it will take a year after my March 16 transplant before strength, appetite, & normality return. Happy July 4th "week" from me, Wes

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 12:54 PM CDT
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Friday, 8 June 2007

Quick Updates
Mood:

lucky
Now Playing: Clinic and Tornado
Topic: Update
First off, he's OK. The tornado that ripped through Otter Tail County yesterday afternoon did some damage, but nothing catastrophic. He lost the pontoon off the lift (had to jump into the lake to retrieve it) and the lift itself was tipped over, but it was nothing compared to neighbors' nightmares.

He's got a couple of great stories about it all - give him a call, it'll be worth your time!

The BMT clinic visit in the Cities on Wednesday went great: he was "cleared" to swim in the lake (but not swallow lake water) and a few other minor niceties. They did warn him to WATCH THE SUN and use plenty of sunscreen, as it could trigger a Graft-Versus-Host-Disease onset. Otherwise, things are good - less energy than he'd like, but beats the alternative! Final clinic visit (of the BMT procedure) is on the 23rd: lots of lab work, biopsy, etc.

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 10:05 AM CDT
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Wednesday, 30 May 2007

Um, er, aaahhh...
Mood:

lyrical
Now Playing: Weekend Update
Topic: Update
I took the girls to see Grandpa over the Memorial Day weekend. We had fun!

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 3:10 PM CDT
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Friday, 25 May 2007

Copy of email from Wes
Mood:

special
Now Playing: No more blogs until June 7th
Topic: Update
It's after 9:00 p.m., Thursday, May 24, & I've spent most of the past 4-5 hours unpacking stuff here at my lake home! Yesterday's BMT appointment went so well I was told to return in two weeks (June 6), at which time my Hickman "port" will be removed following one last "draw" of blood from me for lab. tests, etc. When I asked the doctor & nurse whether it would be okay to vacate my U of M campus apartment, each agreed it was logical to do so. Ed Karels had accompanied me to BMT clinic for reviewal of my medications, plus weekly changing of the dressing on my "port", so we began packing things at the apartment after we returned before noon. I took Ed home at 2pm & had called both sons to ask if
they could pick up things they'd loaned me when I moved in March 30? Joel also took possessions of my niece Kelly, to deliver to her en route to his home in Faribault, in spite of the very threatening weather that afternoon throughout the metro area. Son John came later, as had attended his daughter's softball game earlier in Chaska. All 3 helped me get
my van loaded so all that remained this morning was refrigerator-freezer items, & my personal belongings, which I loaded in time to depart by 11:00 amidst more heavy rainfall. I stopped at my sister Verna's to have her "flush" my "port", a daily task, & arrived home about 4:00, to find brother Al & friend Pastor Jim stopped to help me unload the van. Yes, it was near filled, but some pantry items will remain until tomorrow, with neighbor Bonnie's help, she said. Yes..it's wonderful to be home... on a more permanent basis..finally! :-)

My future appointments include the June 6 lab. work, removal of my "port" in radiology, & another consult with my primary physician, Dr. Arnie Slungaard beginning at 10:30 a.m. Two weeks later, on Wednesday, June 20, I am scheduled for a 9:00 a.m. chest X-Ray at the Imaging Center, followed by another biopsy at 10:00 a.m. At 10:45 I will meet with Dr. Missov in the Cardiovascular Center to see how effective the medications have been in regard to my heart? Finally, on Wednesday, June 27, I'm scheduled to meet again with Dr. Slungaard to review all results, & determine if I am "free" to continue my life-in-recovery without any clinic visits for six months..which appears to be the timeline, if all goes well? As my son John stated in today's "blog", my trips down & back will probably involve driving to the twin cities each Tuesday & returning either Wednesday afternoon, if I'm not too tired, or Thursday morning? All mail to my apartment will be forwarded to my lake address, & my lake telephone number (218/863-8119) is my main phone source now!
Yes...I'll be searching for a new provider that allows more flexibility with my cell-phone use, so will inform you when, okay? Looking back to when this all started for me last October, it's hard to believe these seven months that have passed went by more quickly than I imagined, but it's because of the support of family & friends, plus God's purpose for me!! I'm truly blessed to have overcome this leukemia, & will do all I need in order to continue feeling more normal, & stronger each day. THANK YOU for your part in helping me recover!

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 6:54 AM CDT
Updated: Friday, 25 May 2007 6:55 AM CDT
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Thursday, 24 May 2007

Bye-Bye apartment
Mood:

happy
Now Playing: Wes moves back home for good!
Topic: Update
Dad got the word yesterday that his next clinic appointment won't be until June 6th, so Joel and I both showed up at different times to help him empty the apartment and load the minivan with cargo for the trip north.

His final clinic visit (and biopsy) will be June 23rd (100 days since transplant) and he has multiple offers to stay with people in the Cities for the remaining two appointments.

Blogs will continue to be posted less often as things continue along without problems.

Look for a "mass-email" from him sometime soon after he's settled back in at Lake Lida?

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 8:12 AM CDT
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Monday, 21 May 2007

Copy of email from Wes
Mood:

d'oh
Now Playing: Verizon cell phone stocks up to record high!
Topic: Update
Some GOOD news & some BAD? It's Monday morning & I'm here at my lake home, having arrived Friday afternoon, accompanied by Ed Karels, my "master gardener" friend & former teaching colleague. We spent Saturday buying "bedding plants" & Ed's been busy ever since planting, transplanting & enriching the soil with assorted things. He's outside trying to finish before the afternoon rain that's forecast. Gwen Baldry & Kim Kollar, friends from my church & Lake Country Garden Club, have been here 3 times cleaning up many garden areas of weeds, etc., which has been appreciated so much. Today the garden club is scheduled to visit a nursery near Otter Tail Lake, but we decided not to attend since I shouldn't be around all that vegetation & fertilizer. Ed & I will return to the twin cities sometime tomorrow, Tuesday, since my BMT clinic appointment is at 8:00 am Wednesday.

Kathy Hodgins, my nurse coordinator from the U of M BMT Center, had called here & left a message that the preliminary results of last week's bone-marrow biopsy showed good "readings" & more will be shared by my doctor this Wednesday, following lab work.

That's the GOOD news!

Since I was discharged from the U of M hospital March 30, my primary phone source has been my cell-phone. Many of you know that number (612/240-3934) & have used it to call me at my apartment on the U of M campus. I have also used it to make calls, but my Verizon "bill" was over $400 for the month I've relied on it for communication to my family members, neighbors & friends. I guess I didn't realize I pay for calls received, as well as for calls made, so I will NOT be using it very much these next weeks/months.

Since I have BMT clinic Wednesday mornings, my "plan" is to drive to the twin cities each Tuesday & return to my Lake Lida home each Thursday. Son John & his 3 daughters plan to spend part of Memorial Day weekend here with me, so perhaps the dock will get raised & the pontoon lift moved closer to the shore? In spite of the help I've received with gardening, I'm not capable of tasks requiring much strength, as I do tire easily. I've been told that my recovery will be close to a year... before I feel normal again.

So... the BAD news is I will NOT be using my cell-phone very often, which means calls to me should be made to my lake home telephone (218/863-8119), which I'll retrieve when back here each week. THANKS for understanding this request...& for the continued support, prayers, & help given these past months. I'm fortunate & blessed, for which I am very grateful!

Love & hugs from Wes

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 2:59 PM CDT
Updated: Monday, 21 May 2007 3:09 PM CDT
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Friday, 18 May 2007

Quick note
Mood:

amorous
Topic: Update
Biopsy appointment on Wednesday went well - results known next Wednesday. Clinic visits scheduled for May 23rd and 30th. Spending most of the rest of the time back at Lake Lida. Hoping to be able to give up the apartment soon...

Got Ed McDunn (John's godfather) back to the airport for his Thursday flight without too much trouble. Ed Karels arrives this morning and will head to the lake with Dad. He's been packing a few things from the apartment already to bring back north.

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 9:48 AM CDT
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Tuesday, 15 May 2007

Copy of email from Wes
Mood:

special
Topic: Update
It's afternoon Monday, May 14, & after a pleasant weekend here at my lake home, it's beginning to "cloud up" so perhaps rain will follow? The winds are now NW after two/three days of south winds. My friend, & former neighbor while growing up in Pelican Rapids, Ed McDunn, flew into Mpls. Friday afternoon from Eugene, OR, so we drove my van up here Saturday morning. Besides helping me with "flushing" my Hickman "port" each day, he & I finished getting the ramp sections to my dock in place, & also the dock inserts "placed".

My pontoon was delivered Saturday, & is on the lift, ready for another season of fun-on-the-lake. Ed also tied each dock section with the plastic ties, so it's secure from big waves, I hope? Today he took the van to visit some of his dad's relatives, & if time permits, some former neighbors as well. Tonight we're planning on dinner at Spanky's, my favorite area supper club, hoping it won't be very crowded on a Monday evening?

We'll leave here tomorrow morning for our return to my apartment on the U of M campus, since I have my BMT clinic (lab, biopsy & consult) at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday morning. The following Wednesday, May 23, I meet with my doctor (again) to review the bone-marrow biopsy results. It's my hope that my weekly appointments will continue to be Wednesdays so I can travel to the lake Thursdays & return to the twin cities each Tuesday. Ed Karels, former colleague in my teaching days, will accompany me for next weekend (May 18-22) so we can purchase some "annuals" for planting here. Yes..I will allow him to dig in the dirt, without my help, since that's one of my restrictions. The two Pfiefle girls, Katie & Lizzy, will be mowing my lawn for the next several weeks. The most difficult thing for me while home is to "refrain" from doing anything in the yard or gardens, but it's still very nice to be "home" again.

I'm hoping I can continue weekends here, so I can give up my apartment the end of May, but May 16 is "day 60" following transplant, & "day 100" is still a significant date in recovery, I'm told.

Thanks for calls, notes & prayers, all of which have helped me!

Hugs from Wes

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 9:53 AM CDT
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Friday, 11 May 2007

Yada yada yada
Mood:

suave
Now Playing: News from the front...
Topic: Update
Met with Cardiologist Wednesday: switched a few prescription drugs to get Infraction Ratio back up to at least 55% (currently at 51%, was at 70% prior to Fargo stint).

Walked to Ben & Jerry's with Joel, John and Cortnie for ice cream treats last night: $19 for ice cream?!? What do they think it's made of, gasoline?

Ed McDunn arrives today from Portland, Oregon. They plan on leaving for Lake Lida Saturday morning and coming back Tuesday.

Another bone biopsy (60 days) is scheduled for next Wednesday.

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 12:42 PM CDT
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Monday, 7 May 2007

Quick Update
Mood:

lucky
Gail arrived Wednesday. Al brought Dad's van down, left it for him, and rode back with Verna.

Clinic visits are down to once a week, usually Wednesdays. All other signs of recovery are good, except he needs to see a cardiologist to make sure his heart is AOK.

Gail and Dad have had a busy weekly: visited Kelly and Rick, Georgie Norene, and Dori; hit the Harley shop for souvenirs; shopped and walked; rumor has it they flipped a coin to see which one of them would actually drive the van...

He's planning on going to the lake this weekend once Ed McDunn arrives and is going to try to get back there every other weekend. His goal is to vacate the U of M apartment by the end of May, staying overnight when necessary for clinic visits at either a hotel or with family. Of course, this must be "approved" by the BMT staff beforehand, but I think it's a great goal to shoot for! If Dad's shown us anything over these last few month, it's that he can do virtually anything if he sets his mind to it.

This week's Caregiver schedule is a bit chaotic: Gail returned to Texas this morning, so Judy Cunningham is taking over until Ed Karels arrives, then Joel is slated for Thursday until Ed arrives. If he has a lapse in available people, he may go to the volunteer list and try calling some local people to do short substitutions?

Blog entries will continue to get shorter and farther apart as things improve. Dad's fully capable of responding to emails, phone calls and letters so don't be shy...

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 10:05 AM CDT
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Sunday, 29 April 2007

Straight from the horse's mouth...
Mood:

sharp
Now Playing: Copy of email from Wes
Topic: Update
It's late morning on Saturday, March 28, & I'm (back) home for the weekend, enjoying familiar surroundings & a nice sunny day here at my lake home. My doctor gave permission to spend the time here, so my sister, Verna, drove me up to Pelican Rapids yesterday, arriving here about 2:30 p.m., with a couple of stops enroute (groceries, gas, cash, etc.). Yes, I spent the overnight alone, & managed quite well, sleeping until nearly 9:00 a.m. this morning. Brother Al, sister-in-law Becky & lake neighbor Bonnie joined me here for a PAPA MURPHY'S PIZZA Friday night, after which we played a card game called "Golf"; I was the BIG winner! Son John still has the two cats in Chaska, but may return them here when he, son Joel & friend Shawn arrive next weekend? They plan to hunt wild turkeys in the area, & also put my dock & lifts in the lake, so I'll stay away for that weekend. I'll spend it back at the U of M apartment with Gail, who is arriving May 2 from Austin, Texas, until she departs May 7. Hopefully, someone will get my van to us, before she arrives, so we'll have means of transportation beyond the U of M campus area? With permission, I will return alternating weekends to the lake home, given a "driver"..until my discharge from the BMT Clinic?

Son John has continued his website "blog" with his unique sense of humor, poetic "talent", etc. to provide updates on my life "in recovery", but suspect some of you haven't been able to access that website, so this will let you know what has happened through this e-mail? Yes...I do check e-mails from my laptop in the apt., but rarely send messages, because it means typing in each address, & a laptop is more difficult for me to write or type messages, without mistakes! I've had several visitors recently, which has helped the days pass more quickly..thank you! Verna & I drove to Faribault Thursday afternoon to see son Joel, daughter-in-law Dori, Amy & to meet Jeff, Amy's boyfriend, which was about an hour's drive south on I-35. The highlight was seeing their new home, which they'd purchased recently, & moved into April 19. The location is still about the same from their employment at Malt-O-Meal in Northfield, but a 3-year old home with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, triple car garage, etc. I'm happy for them! Son John lives in Chaska, a suburb SW from Mpls., about 30-45 minutes from me, depending on traffic, & niece Kelly lives in Richfield, a nearby suburb, with her husband, Rick, son Jake & daughter Jessie. They have recently completed a great addition to their home, with much of the construction work done by Rick these past 3 years. All three "check in" on me regularly, with my care-givers taking walks with me, & accompanying me to BMT Clinic mornings..down to twice a week from 3-4 times a week earlier-in-the-game. Friend Ed Karels, a former teaching colleague, lives in south Mpls., & has helped "fill in" the gap between family care-givers, & allowing us to "catch up" on life since retirement, too. All 3 granddaughters accompany their dad, my son John, on alternating weekends, to see me at my apt., & have found the complex (even) offers "stuff" for young people to do there.

The questions I'm asked most frequently are HOW DO YOU FEEL?...or HOW LONG WILL YOU HAVE TO STAY NEAR THE U of M hospital/clinic? I feel pretty normal again, but tire easily, especially after the daily walks around campus..or after a more "active" day..including the clinic checkups, which can last up to 3-4 hours, with lots of waiting, it seems? I'm quite restricted about activity, which inludes NO yard work, NO swimming or use of the hot-tub, NO large crowds of people, & wearing my face mask when "out" in public with the masses. I'm expected to wear sun-block when exposed to the sun, must eat well-done meats (ish) if/when dining "out", & washing my hands frequently, to prevent the spread of germs. I must guard against infections, be it bacterial, virial or fungal, & GRAFT vs HOST DISEASE, which can occur anytime in the first 6 to 12 months, after transplant (3/16)? Those symptoms, should it happen, would be a skin rash & diarrhea, both of which can be "fixed" with a lotion-cream, and/or steroids, I'm told. Prayers are always welcomed! :-)

My mailing address & cell-phone # while in the twin cities: ARYGLE HOUSE # 1028, 920 DELAWARE ST. SE, MPLS. MN 55414...( 612 / 240-3934) or my home address at the lake, which is 26468 COUNTY HIGHWAY #4, PELICAN RAPIDS, MN 56572 (218 / 863-8119) The cards, calls, visits & care-giving has all contributed to my successful AND (relatively) quick recuperation, in addition to the Lord's will, the miracles of medicine & medical staff, & my own determination to get through this phase of leukemia. Taking good care of my financial affairs, the house plants & forwarding correspondence from here are brother Al & sister-in-law Becky, another god-send to ease my stress levels. I'm very grateful to family members, especially.. for their concern, help & encouragment these past 6 months, & will hopefully) continue to regain a sense of independence? Perhaps the greatest "gift" has been the stem cells donated by my twin brother, Warren, for which I've been given another chance at a healthy life! May you be equally blessed!

Hugs, Wes

Posted by blog/wesupdates at 10:44 PM CDT
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