Traditional Muzzleloading on the Cheap

Member’s General Interest => Prayer Chapel => Topic started by: DandJofAZ on May 19, 2017

Title: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on May 19, 2017
The good news, after bone scans, chest x-rays, ct scans of chest and pelvic area I have prostate cancer but no sign of any spread..  the bad news, I have prostate cancer.. I think I can live long and happy with that.  Now  come Monday we meet with the Dr. and see what treatment options will be useful and what we will do.  Let's hope it is just remove and throw away the bad stuff and heal. 


Doug----hopefullly soon of Idaho (since we already bought our retirement home)

PS newest member here will drive a truck for me on the move...
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: old salt on May 19, 2017
I had the same situation 6 years ago, Had the prostate removed, and never looked back.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on May 20, 2017
I don't have prostate cancer (as far as I know) but my doctor told me that at my age (74) I could live just as long without treatment as with it.
We were discussing the new Medicare guidelines.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hawken50 on May 20, 2017
Prayers up for healing brother.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on May 21, 2017
Quote from: Patocazador on May 20, 2017
I don't have prostate cancer (as far as I know) but my doctor told me that at my age (74) I could live just as long without treatment as with it.
We were discussing the new Medicare guidelines.
I read that also in several places, however I have a painful surface growth which is causing problems.  So looks like removal and recover and back to shooting...

Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Papa on May 21, 2017
The best saying I have heard regarding prostate cancer is: You might die with it but not from it!!
Mark
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Fredredcj on May 21, 2017
Prayers sent friend. Stay strong this can be very manageable / curable
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on May 22, 2017
Doug,
Your in our prayers,  Keep in touch and if I can do anything let me know - I'm just a phone call away... (if you don't have it anymore - PM me.)


Jim
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on May 22, 2017
I'm so glad your prognosis is looking good.  There are several types of pc and it would appear you have the very slow growing version.  I had a close friend of more than 30 years die from pc but his was the really bad kind.  Most folks don't usually have so much trouble.  You do what you are suppose to do and be a good patient.  We have your back, my friend.

And old salt, you keep an eye out, okay.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: old salt on May 22, 2017
Will do.  blah ROFL
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on May 22, 2017
Quote from: Hanshi on May 22, 2017
I'm so glad your prognosis is looking good.  There are several types of pc and it would appear you have the very slow growing version.  I had a close friend of more than 30 years die from pc but his was the really bad kind.  Most folks don't usually have so much trouble.  You do what you are suppose to do and be a good patient.  We have your back, my friend.

And old salt, you keep an eye out, okay.
Mostly good, but last scan shows widespead involvement of prostate,  Thus is all has to go, including the nerves in the sheath.  Not so much fun once nerves are removed and control issues result... Oh well, sure beats the alternatives..  Maybe with help from uroligist I can get some reasonable control back,.,, He seems to think there is a good possibility...... I'll just hope and pray for the best. 

Doug 
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on June 18, 2017
Well, after giving everyone a good scare when I wouldn't wake up after the surgery, all is looking OK.  What was removed was a fast growing "hot" cancer, so looks like 6 week recovery and then check PSA again and go from there..  Radiation is already recommended acct. what they found inside.   
Putting off move to Idaho., but already have a renter for the house up north, so the 2 house payments won't bury us.  Just tight(real tight) budget with me off work 6wks at a time multiple times. Planning move for next June/July instead of next week.  Life does throw you a few curve balls some times..but I will go with the flow and beat this thing,,

Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: seniorsgt on June 18, 2017
know a lot of Vietnam vets with agent orange exposure that had the fast growing and told they wont die from it. If you were over there let your doc know guys changes the whole ball game. good luck with your recovery
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on June 18, 2017
A childhood friend died just a few years ago of a heart attack as a result of diabetes caused by contact with agent orange.  Though an average size guy he was a body builder and looked great.  He serviced planes in VN so came into frequent contact with the stuff.  He received 100% disability from the VA as the diabetes ravaged his health.  He was a gifted builder and artist and I miss him terribly.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: seniorsgt on June 18, 2017
had a heart attack, have diabetes and neuropathy in the legs, prostate acted up last year was lucky my urologist was at a VA hospital in Texas for 7 years and she didn't let me slip through the crack with "that youll probably die with it not from it". DandjofAZ I too had started a retirement cabin
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: redhawk on June 18, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with you.  If I can do anything for you let me know!
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: RonRC on July 21, 2017
I wish you the best in your treatment and recovery.
We are fortunate to live in a time where the treatment has progressed so far that we can even consider the statement "die with it rather than from it."
Rin
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on July 28, 2017
Mostly all good, changing to maybe not so good...  Prostate removal went OK with some complications. Recovered from surgery and had new PSA test run.. Now at 61+ , it was 52+ before removal.  Must be a thriving number of areas still doing fine in there.  Found nerve and vessel involvement when Pathology was done...  Spreading from all areas of removal.  Hope oncologist can come up with something to  slow or stop this mess...

Doug 
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: old salt on July 28, 2017
Still have you on the prayer list.

Old Salt
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: beowulf on July 29, 2017
hang in there ,and dont give up ! as they say back in the old country ,"Wunder gescheh'n " ! miracles do happen !
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on July 29, 2017
I have to say that you're long overdue for unadulterated, old fashion, country, flat out, no holds barred GOOD NEWS!  Hang in there, old friend.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on July 29, 2017
Bad news comes in bunches ... so does good news. It's time for some of the good variety. I hope it happens soon.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on August 09, 2017
Yep , comes in bunches.  No time right now, but will update soon..(bad)

Doug---
PS  Still in AZ and working--Need the health insurance for a while. 

PSS: " Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans"
                                                         From------"Beautiful Boy"
                                                                     
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on August 16, 2017
Doug,

Let us know whats happening when you can.. You guys are still on the prayer list here... If there is something I can do call me!

Jim
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on September 08, 2017
New scans, more problem... 2 new lymph nodes involved, two bone lesions, one we (the oncologist and I) found  when we examined the "clean" bone scan and "clean" ct scan together.  Showed small area of pelvis with bone marrow replace with cancerous new bone.  New scan shows up real good...much bigger and with a tail up into new areas..also new lesion in sacrum/ilaic area.  One thing about fast growing, invasive, aggressive and incurable cancer.. It's easy to track changes...Started hormone treatment 4th of Aug. and chemo yesterday.  Now the wait and see if anything catches this sh*ty  stuff and gives me some years back to enjoy BP and the Grand kids..(together).  So far the oldest loves it hand has gone to multiple Winter Nationals with me and placed. Younger ones just have made smoke so far, but love to shoot...    They are also moving to Idaho. 9 miles from my wife and my new retirement home in Bonners Ferry ID. We are moving to Idaho next summer no matter what turns out with this med. cond. 

Newest--28th--burned out vein in right arm..PICC line installed on left side.  Better not burn vein into heart.

Well that's my cry on your shoulders info for today and my plans for the future.


Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: hotfxr on December 18, 2017
I'm not really much of a prayer guy, but in your case, it will be done.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on December 19, 2017
I had a picc line when I was recovering from pancreatitis .. no fun getting it done but a welcome relief when infusions or withdrawals are needed. As you know, it goes into the vena cava so there's nothing simple about it.

Have the doctors mentioned immune therapy where your antibodies are reinforced and fight off the cancer? It worked on Jimmy Carter's brain cancer and others.

I hope you beat this "devil."
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: graybear on December 19, 2017
I also had immunotherapy for malignant melanoma (3 years after it was taken off of my Right upper arm as a squamous melanoma) it moved to my left lung as a very fast growing malignant melanoma. I have now been in remission since Feb. 2016. I don't know if immunotherapy will work fo your cancer but it wouldn't hurt to ask your oncologist. Good luck and keep on fighting.

Roger a.k.a graybear
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on December 19, 2017
We all still have your back, too.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on December 20, 2017
Talked with one of my three Dr's yesterday..HE IS IN FAVOR OF CHANGE IN CHEMO. TO UPDATE TO NEWEST GOLD LINE TREATMENT. Now have to meet with another tomorrow and convince him the change is necessary .  Should add years to the end of life estimate.  New studies (now that drugs have been in use for over 5 yrs) show at least a 10% extention  in lifespan running treatment upfront concurrently instead of one after the other.  Still predicting 50% chance at 5+ years on current treatment but 6+ years with change. That doesn't sound right.  That is 50% will make it to the median pt. of the  bell curve....I fully intend to be in the upper half of the Bell Curve.  Peters out to almost nobody left at the 10yr. period and my doc and I had serious discussion yesterday and he says " what you are seeing are realistic"  Also admitted I am the only patient he has had in his 7 yrs whose PSA actually jumped significantly after Radical Prostatectomy, so my case is pretty unique,, but not in a good way....Damned stuff jumped into every venous and neural bundle leaving the surgical area. PSA has dropped a lot  since start of treatment, 61 to 0.197 but if I can't get it to 0.03 or below, I will never see 10 yrs.  Oncologist has agreed to continue present chemo. past normal 6 sessions as long as I can stand it and we keep getting  reduction in markers...Just have to get the change to add drugs to hit the 10% of my cancer that is not now being attacked. 
How's that for really laying it out for you guys here....almost sounds like one of my posts to my Advanced Prostate Cancer Forum where we are all fighting Gleason 9/10, metastasized , incurable, fast growing  and invasive bad stuff.

Really do appreciate your prayers..some times they are all that help me hold this all together and keep working and looking forward to a good life.

Many thanks, Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: William on December 20, 2017
I'm glad there is hope on the horizon Doug. I hope that all your doctor's understand that in order to get you on the nonstandard treatments, they will have a  lot of  letter writing and possibly peer review.  I don't mean to sound discouraging but the long and short of it is that insurance companies are in health care to make money and once you deviate from the standard you become a liability.  You must be your own best advocate and it may help to find one to assist you in getting the best treatment.  One may even be available through your insurance plan already. Look for "Health Care Coordinator " or  "Nurse case manager ".
Most of all,  keep fighting and don't give up. Attitude and a positive outlook is as important as
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Dogshirt on December 20, 2017
Keeping you in our prayers.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on December 21, 2017
Quote from: William on December 20, 2017
I'm glad there is hope on the horizon Doug. I hope that all your doctor's understand that in order to get you on the nonstandard treatments, they will have a  lot of  letter writing and possibly peer review.  I don't mean to sound discouraging but the long and short of it is that insurance companies are in health care to make money and once you deviate from the standard you become a liability.  You must be your own best advocate and it may help to find one to assist you in getting the best treatment.  One may even be available through your insurance plan already. Look for "Health Care Coordinator " or  "Nurse case manager ".
Most of all,  keep fighting and don't give up. Attitude and a positive outlook is as important as
William,
Might not be as hard now as it would have been yesterday.....Blood test came back showing PSA is on the rise.  That wasn't predicted until at least 2yrs. after Chemo.  Had 6th infusion today.. 7Th scheduled, but will see what next blood test shows. Prayers definitely needed now!!!
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on December 22, 2017
New meds ok;ed by insurance. Only $25 copay this year goes up after the 1st.  Hope it will attack to 10% of my cancer that is not hormone sensitive and is now rearing it's
ugly head.  Should be here on Thurs. by Fed Ex,
Wish me luck and keep Praying.....
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on December 22, 2017
Prayers up and best luck, my friend.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on December 23, 2017
Still sending Prayers from here keep us informed.... Wishing you and the family the best wishes for this holiday... Go make some smoke with the grand-kids if you can!  Great talking with you really enjoyed the conversation... door is always open, and coffee is always on...


Jim
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on December 23, 2017
Jim,
Right now they say no caffeine, so coffee is missed.  Felt kind of like I got kicked in the teeth when I got the blood test results...I really don't like being early on the rise. Keep the prayer rising...may be all that holds me together.
Thanks to all of you... Will keep you posted.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: William on December 23, 2017
Quote from: DandJofAZ on December 23, 2017
Jim,
Right now they say no caffeine, so coffee is missed.  Felt kind of like I got kicked in the teeth when I got the blood test results...I really don't like being early on the rise. Keep the prayer rising...may be all that holds me together.
Thanks to all of you... Will keep you posted.
Doug
Doug, it felt like a kick in the teeth when you announced your lab reports, to me at least.  I've been in your shoes, hanging on the results of one test or another.  Again, attitude has as much to do with your recovery as your care givers.
Prayers continue.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on December 25, 2017
Thanks William and a Merry Christmas to you.  And may the new year bring healing to us both.....
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: William on December 25, 2017
Quote from: DandJofAZ on December 25, 2017
Thanks William and a Merry Christmas to you.  And may the new year bring healing to us both.....
Doug
I'll drink to that.  chrrs
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Winter Hawk on January 29, 2018
How are you doing, Doug, any good news to report?  We'll keep praying....

~WH~
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on January 30, 2018
New blood tests Tues. and Weds. and results Thurs. and Fri.  Chemo  this Thurs.  Modification after last upswing brought markers back down again so hoping for more reduction in this weeks tests.  I am darned tired. Peripheral Neuropathy spreading so may have to suspend treatments. So many unknowns with this stuff. Will update Friday.


Chemo 8 done--new mod, acct peripheral nerve problem and sloughing skin. Lab results not all in, hoping for Friday.

Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: russell shaffer on January 30, 2018
I'll be waiting for your updates and praying for you brother. 
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on January 30, 2018
Quote from: russell shaffer on January 30, 2018
I'll be waiting for your updates and praying for you brother.




Absolutely!  We all will.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on February 03, 2018
I think I can speak for most of us when I say we are all pulling for you.... You have the number if you want to talk...  Prayers and a Kiss from Lady Bulldog...
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on February 04, 2018
Quote from: russell shaffer on January 30, 2018
I'll be waiting for your updates and praying for you brother.
Lab problems--results Mon.??
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on February 05, 2018
Results in, smaller drop, 10% but going in the right direction.  2 more rounds of chemo planned but cumulative side effects getting more bothersome. 

Doug 
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on February 05, 2018
Good news. Happy birthday BTW.  prty
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: mouse on February 12, 2018
Wow, Doug!  I've been wondering what you've been up to and how you've been.  You are one tough bird!  Prayers going up for you, my friend!
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on February 13, 2018
My urologist  /hormone therapist also commented last Monday that I was a tough old coot. 10 days and I'll be in for #9.  Just starting to feel better on the up swing... Last mod. in meds. helped with side effects.  Just a balancing act all the way through... I can see why most people quit after 6 cycles.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on February 13, 2018
My FIL quit. Don't be like him!

Good Luck with your continuing treatment.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on February 13, 2018
Just continue improving; that's all I ask.  dntn
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: russell shaffer on February 13, 2018
That's what we are all asking for.  Keep it up, brother.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on March 03, 2018
Done---#9 almost killed me.  Nine days ago and I still can't function.  Belly pain, skin sloughing front  to back,top to bottom. Numb fingers, feet, butt, Back.  Dizzy. Bad eye sight. (double,triple vision).. No more... Blood tests in a week and a half will show how far we got, but don't expect markers will be as low as I wanted to get them.  Don't want to die to kill the Cancer.  What's next??  no way to tell now. Back to the wait and see and them test,scan, etc.  I have to recover and get on with life. Wish me well.

Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: redhawk on March 03, 2018
My prayers and thoughts will be with you!  My sister is going through the same fight and it's a day to day battle for  her.  Some days are good and some days are not so good.  Just take them one day at a time and thank God you have one more day on this earth.  Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.  Send me a PM with your address I have something I want to send you.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: William on March 03, 2018
Hang in there Doug.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: russell shaffer on March 03, 2018
Yep, you need to recover from this and get on with life.  Keep hanging in there, brother. 
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: mouse on March 03, 2018
Thoughts and prayers are with you, Doug.   Hang in there!
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Watauga on March 04, 2018
Hang in there Doug. More Prayers on the way.....
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on March 04, 2018
Please do hang in there.  If wishing for 100% success could work wonders, you'd be taking dancing lessons.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on March 04, 2018
Quote from: Hanshi on March 04, 2018
Please do hang in there.  If wishing for 100% success could work wonders, you'd be taking dancing lessons.

Ditto but I would say he would be out there teaching Kids to shoot!  Keep us in the loop and don't forget to call if you need to talk!

Jim
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on March 20, 2018
Red Hawk-- One big THANK YOU. Just got the nicest feather I've ever seen.  Wearing it now and will for duration.  30 days from last (#9) treatment and just finished working a trip.  Still fighting side effects but the knives in my belly have eased off and feeling is returning to my hands,feet.back etc. Eyes are still tearing but not much blood from my nose, still numb, but not bleeding.  Only loosing skin on shoulders and lower back.  Fingers  aren't as numb but now pins and needles as they wake up again. Dr. says some might be permanent since we pushed chemo. so far.  Final PSA just hovering in 0.140 area.(up and down 0.007 last 3 cycles) while side effects stopped adding up and started multiplying. Don't want to die to kill the cancer.  Now 3 mo. to heal, get back procedures done and a couple of more surgeries then bone scans, Ct's, blood work. and draw up new plans.   

Doug.

PS  Don't Quit Praying
Years to go.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: redhawk on March 22, 2018
Glad you like the feather Doug.  It was made from a piece of elk antler that I have had since the 70's when I went to Philmont.  I was waiting to use it on something special and this seemed to fit the bill.  Hope it brings you some encouragement to fight the fight and know we are all behind you.  I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.  Hopefully one day we can get together and make some smoke!  Take care!
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on March 22, 2018
Back procedure done this morning...so far all good. Lot less pain from mid back area and across ribs. Have to see how it works jostling on a train.  Keep  up the prayers, they seem to do more than the Drs. sometimes. I'll be  wearing the feather for the duration of my fight.... Hopefully for many years to come... Just love what you were able to turn an antler into....
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: beowulf on March 23, 2018
hope everything turns out ok for you ! have lost family and friends to this crap , including both parents , good luck , hang in there ,and above all never give up !
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on April 09, 2018
Well, we just leased our retirement home for another year.  Still trying to recover from chemo. #9.  Seven weeks and still having problems. Eyes lots better,  new pains in hands, feet, ankles, wrists, knees  as feeling returns and nerve damage is showing up. Hope most of it will heal, but dr. says some may be permanent. If we can get on to Idaho next spring, we will just have to move in with my daughter until lease expires on home in Bonner's Ferry or we decide to sell depending on health issues.   Life just keeps on happening... Should be able to place caps on nipples soon. Then it will be time to make smoke.  Going to Texas next week and will pick up flint lock. Should be able to shoot it without as much feeling in my fingers as my cap locks require. Only making one paid run this month--should give me a fine (small) paycheck, but vacation pay will be enough to make ends meet. Still hoping for the best, Surgery May first. Then second surgery as soon after that as I can get it scheduled...busy time... then back to work when I can.

Doug. 
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on April 09, 2018
Good luck on your upcoming surgery.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on April 17, 2018
Surgeries back to back... 1st and 2nd..  Should be fun and feel great by the third. Yeah.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on April 17, 2018
 thmbsup We gotcha back, brother.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on April 17, 2018
What a drag. Here's hoping you come out much better after the ordeal.

When I spent 28 days in the hospital a year and a half ago, the heart surgery and lung plus bleeding problems weren't near as bad as the long stay in the hospital.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: redhawk on April 17, 2018
We'll keep that old eagle circling  overhead!  Good Luck on your surgeries!
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on April 19, 2018
Thanks guys,  I think I've finally had my last call from pre-op nurses and have then straightened out about NO general anesthetic  for either procedure.  That darned near killed me last time too.

Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on April 19, 2018
40 years ago more patients died from the general anesthetic than from the operations. I don't know what the current figures are.

After several surgeries while under general anesthetics, I have realized that that would be be the easiest way to die. Just wake up dead. I'd never know about it.  [hmm]
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on April 21, 2018
Quote from: Patocazador on April 19, 2018
40 years ago more patients died from the general anesthetic than from the operations. I don't know what the current figures are.

After several surgeries while under general anesthetics, I have realized that that would be be the easiest way to die. Just wake up dead. I'd never know about it.  [hmm]
Jenny says she had enough scares  last time and doesn't want me "waking up dead" just yet. Left hand flinter  from William is a beauty and fits me and Anthony(grand son) just fine. Can't wait to go out into the bear patch and pick huckleberries.Hopefully next fall.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hawken50 on April 22, 2018
Ahhh Doug prayers up from here brother....Too many good men have gone ...we need ya around here ol hoss...
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on May 02, 2018
Well both surgeries done.  I'm Worthless.  May be able to shoot in three to four months.

Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on May 02, 2018
We're rooting for you.  thmbsup
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: hotfxr on May 02, 2018
Quote from: DandJofAZ on May 02, 2018
Well both surgeries done.  I'm Worthless.  May be able to shoot in three to four months.

Doug

I didn't have to go through any surgeries for my wife to tell me that I'm worthless. And she tells anyone who will listen.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: redhawk on May 03, 2018
Quote from: DandJofAZ on May 02, 2018
Well both surgeries done.  I'm Worthless.  May be able to shoot in three to four months.
Wait til you get the surgery bills and you'll see you're worth a lot but may be penniless.  Hope you continue improve.  Will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Watauga on May 03, 2018
Prayers on the way!
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on May 03, 2018
Quote from: hotfxr on May 02, 2018
Quote from: DandJofAZ on May 02, 2018
Well both surgeries done.  I'm Worthless.  May be able to shoot in three to four months.

Doug
I didn't have to go through any surgeries for my wife to tell me that I'm worthless. And she tells anyone who will listen.



[hmm] Could we be married to the same....hmmmm; never mind.  'shok'
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: hotfxr on May 03, 2018
Quote from: Hanshi on May 03, 2018
Quote from: hotfxr on May 02, 2018
Quote from: DandJofAZ on May 02, 2018
Well both surgeries done.  I'm Worthless.  May be able to shoot in three to four months.

Doug
I didn't have to go through any surgeries for my wife to tell me that I'm worthless. And she tells anyone who will listen./quote]



[hmm] Could we be married to the same....hmmmm; never mind.  'shok'


Dunno, mine is named "She Who Must Be Obeyed". It's engraved on the trip pak on my Electra Glide in case there is any doubt. I been obeying for nigh on 40 years.  ???
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on May 04, 2018
Quote from: hotfxr on May 03, 2018
Dunno, mine is named "She Who Must Be Obeyed". It's engraved on the trip pak on my Electra Glide in case there is any doubt. I been obeying for nigh on 40 years.  ???

This is a huge tangent from Doug's post but Hotfxr's quote brought back memories of "She" by H. Rider Haggard better known by its modern tag of "She Who Must Be Obeyed". I read this book in high school and even then wondered how 19th century Victorians could turn it into a best-seller.   ucrzy
Science-fiction needs to use some actual facts but this fable makes me think that Mr. Haggard had been using some of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's 7% solution of cocaine.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: old salt on May 04, 2018
Well Blue Brid is not one that must be obeyed. Since the heart attack  and the COPD She is more like a mother hen hovering over me. That I can take and even enjoy that at times.
Stay on the path and keep up the fight, still have you on the prayer list.

Old Salt
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on May 04, 2018
Well, my main squeeze definitely is a SWMBO.  Me, well, I'm a IMO.  The only thing that surprises me is that I've not been ordered to have it tattooed on my forehead.

We're talking "mean, spiteful, rigid straight razor totin' woman".
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on May 04, 2018
Quote from: old salt on May 04, 2018
Well Blue Brid is not one that must be obeyed. Since the heart attack  and the COPD She is more like a mother hen hovering over me. That I can take and even enjoy that at times.
Stay on the path and keep up the fight, still have you on the prayer list.

Old Salt
I can identify with that. Jenny keeps telling me to let someone else do things or let her help. Only took me 10 min. to get my socks on last night by myself, why do I need help ???
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on May 04, 2018
Quote from: DandJofAZ on May 04, 2018
Only took me 10 min. to get my socks on last night by myself, why do I need help ???
Doug

Heck, it takes me that long to get my firm support socks on without wrinkles. You're doing pretty good as far as I can tell.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Dogshirt on May 04, 2018
Maggie's title is Minister of Finance. As for "obeying", for the last 43 years I have either BEEN in trouble, or ABOUT to be in trouble. Largely because I DON'T obey, I just do as I please, consequences be damned. If I do it I be in trouble, but I DO it!  bunkr
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on May 25, 2018
New word from BNSF. Off for min. of two months before med, dept. will let me back.  New labs back from May 23 Drs visit.  Best blood test since Sept.  Lots of time off, no income, but bills keep coming in. Cashing in old IRA to see us through.
PSA stable at 0.137. so next months scans should hold no surprises. Keeping fingers crossed. 2# lifting limit imposed after last surgery. Anybody have miniature rifle I can shoot??

Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: russell shaffer on May 25, 2018
The health news sounds pretty good.  The rest not so much - at least if you retired you would have a steady income of sorts.  Do what you have to do to get along, I guess.  Hang in there Brother.  Actually, don't you get sick benefits if you are off for a time? 
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on May 26, 2018
Ho BRo.  Yes and no.  Yes at less than half of social security if you are not getting it. Another easy decision, signed up for SS when I started fighting the Pca. That plus VA PAYMENT MAKES HOUSE PAYMENT AND AUTO WITHDRAWALS EACH MONTH with enough to pay cell phones. Then all we need is car payment, food(pantry is full) and Dr co-pays, 401 loan payment and gas money. Good thing the mountain cabin sold so we have survival  money in bank.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on May 27, 2018
And here I thought the RR always took better care of employees than the other corporations out there.  Keep the faith and let us know if we can help out in any way... as for a 2 lb weight restriction can't help our lightest is a 4lb .32 known around here as "Baby" has also made appearances on the site photos in Dennis's arms coming out of the outhouse and some other pictures  dntn  One of the few that did not fall to the hacksaw while he owned it!
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: russell shaffer on May 27, 2018
There is a good reason for the old term of "being railroaded".  The upper management is and always has been, unfriendly to the workers.  I spent 25 years on the Burlington Northern and then the BNSF after the merger with the Santa Fe and I can say that upper management are not nice people.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on May 27, 2018
Merger,= take worst of each and force it down workers throats.  I'll survive, but may have to quit to do so. We'll see when and if they let me back.  Meanwhile going to visit daughter and grand kids in Idaho.  Better than moping around here at home.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on June 06, 2018
Quote from: DandJofAZ on May 27, 2018
Merger,= take worst of each and force it down workers throats.  I'll survive, but may have to quit to do so. We'll see when and if they let me back.  Meanwhile going to visit daughter and grand kids in Idaho.  Better than moping around here at home.
Doug

Sounds like a plan  thmbsup
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on June 23, 2018
Results from latest scans in.  No new mets. in bones. two out of three existing bone mets less active, one in upper pelvis growing.  Lymph node involvement has disappeared. Latest CT shows both lungs partially collapsed and suggest I see a Dr for problem. Was getting sicker by the day the last 3 months or so.  Cut dosage on cytotoxic pills by 25% and started to improve within 3 days.  My wife noticed improvement and mentioned it to me before I told her what I  had done.  Still hurting but not in pain of varying intensity 24 hrs, a day and able to get some sleep without pain keeping me awake.  One test and 4 drs to see next week, then if no new problems going to try to go back to work on July 1st.  Been off since April 15th.  Long dry spell with negative balance pay checks.  One more payment to make by 1st, then hopefully making enough to bring home some $$$$.
Don't think I'll mention lungs to company. They might take offense to me working again.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on June 28, 2018
Keeping an eye on this and prayers going out daily.... If there is anything an unemployed (temp) student school teacher can do to help let me know!  I'm just a phone call or email away!

Jim
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: old salt on June 28, 2018
Doug hang in there. still keeping the prayer on the wind

Old Salt
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on June 28, 2018
I have a dear friend who had the cancer metastasis all over and nearly died.  She is one positive, courageous gal and at 73 is still teaching jiu jitsu.  So, it ain't over 'til it's over, and often not even then.  May your journey be long and pleasant.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on July 08, 2018
Treatments going on at reduced dosage. Finally feeling well enough to go back to work.  Drs last visit he said I am officially in remission.  For how long,  one month to 5-7 years.  No closer estimate, but not dead now as there first prognosis called for.  Still fighting reduced side effects from drugs, but only hands and feet still hurt.  Manual dexterity still sucks, small things hard to handle (like percussion caps).  May be able to shoot soon, but hands and  arms shaky which may lead to larger groups than I have ever shot.  Plus eye sight damaged by chemo, but not recovering.  Need glasses for first time in my life for many activities.  Like seeing my sights.  Got to get used to new normal and get on with life.  Nice to have Drs tell me I now have a future.   Still need prayers for a future.

Doug-AZ
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: William on July 08, 2018
Great news to rejoice with on a Sunday evening! I'm more than happy to continue including you in my prayers.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on July 08, 2018
Great news, indeed!
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Dogshirt on July 08, 2018
 thmbsup Good to hear. Waiting to hear when the move to Idaho is.  thmbsup
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on July 08, 2018
Retirement home leased through end of next June.  Should have a better idea by then what life holds for me and Jenny.  Planning to work next couple of months, marry off last daughter in Sept., go to 50 year high school reunion, work another week and then retire.   But as I have found out this last year and a half, plans change as life happens.
Praying and planning on another 5-10 years here and alive!!
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on July 08, 2018
Quote from: DandJofAZ on July 08, 2018
Praying and planning on another 5-10 years here and alive!!
Doug

We're all rooting for ya.  dntn
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: russell shaffer on July 09, 2018
Hey brother.  Try a B12 supplement for your shakeyness.  I was developing a tremor in my right hand/arm and my VA doctor suggested the B12.  Don't know if it will do any good for you but I think it's worth a try. 
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: redhawk on July 09, 2018
Your future sounds bright .  That old eagle is still flying over my house once and awhile . I'll keep you in my prayers.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on August 17, 2018
Quote from: redhawk on July 09, 2018
Your future sounds bright .  That old eagle is still flying over my house once and awhile . I'll keep you in my prayers.

Good to hear from you today!  Enjoyed the visit and I really like hearing upbeat reports... !

Jim
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on August 19, 2018
Good to have another person close when life throws you a curve ball. Planning a life now that dr's say I have one.. So different than figuring the set up for leaving this world..
Russ I'm taking both B-6 and 12, Don't know how bad things would be without them. Cutting dose again on meds. 80mg/120mg alternating days. PSA back to 0.134 from 0.118 last test, but staying right in the 0.148/0.132 it's stabilized at for last 8 months. No major change at all.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on January 07, 2019
New meds and new disaster.  Went on med to help with hot flashes and neuropathy and they backfired.  Doubled hot flashes, messed up my balance, hands and feet got worse not better and in 3 mo eyesight went from 20/30 to 20/200.  Now off that one and new prescription hasn't arrived yet   Hate the balancing act modern meds put me on..  Eye sight improving but tests show I now have dead nerves in wrists and down into hand that will not come back. New normal kind of sucks some times, but I'm still here and in the fight.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Red Badger on January 07, 2019
Miscues of Modern Medical science can be a big blow but consider the alternative.... We do like hearing from you around here so selfishly want you to stick around...  thmbsup   

Let me know if there is anything we can do in addition to the prayers we are still sending

Jim
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Hanshi on January 07, 2019
You hang in there, Doug.  This medicine thing is too much "hit or miss", in my opinion.
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Winter Hawk on January 08, 2019
Hang in there!  If nothing else, as an inspiration to the rest of us! dntn  Prayers are continuing....

~WH~
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: DandJofAZ on February 09, 2019
Doing better a little at a time.  Played cards with granddaughter today and was able to shuffle cards for first time in 18mo.  Snow 2-6" daily.  Highs in 20-30 range so pretty nice. Low -1 tonight.  Really love this beautiful country in North Idaho.  Home next week to send package to Red Hawk and try working up load for my 20 ga. trade gun.  Flintlock so I won't have to pick up caps.  Not much feeling in fingertips.
Getting on with my new life.
Doug
Title: Re: Mostly all good news....
Post by: Patocazador on February 09, 2019
 dntn dntn Glad to hear the good news.  ;D