Halfway through the Tunnel

Just a friendly hello to everyone. As of tomorrow, Tuesday, Nov. 18th, I am officially at the halfway mark with the radiation. I met my medical oncologist (who is in charge of the chemotherapy) on Friday for my standard blood work and consultation. And today, Monday the 17th, I had my meeting with my radiation oncologist for a check-in. Both are happy with how things are going. (I think I have now had 4 doctors so far, not including my second opinions!)

Some side effects that have shown up:
Fatigue has definitely set in. I feel pretty wiped out in the late afternoon or early evening. Am getting a good 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night though.

Loss of appetite. As my Mom commented last week, my appetite has shrunk, and I've actually lost a few pounds (during my weekly weigh-ins).

Finally, the HAIR. Today, upon leaving Yale, I was getting in to drive and as I put my sunglasses on I end up pulling out a chunk of hair on the right side of my head (where most of the radiation goes). Slowly but surely I think it has started and it will all come out. But I plan to nip it in the bud by having T.J. shave my head bald once again. Hopefully this helps me pick up some chicks!

And to everyone once again, thank you. Many people I know have been recently laid off due to this wonderful economy. My thoughts are with you all. Keep your heads up.

Mike

Happiness is Contagious!!!

Day by day, week by week - it is hard to believe that Michael's treatment is at the halfway mark. Joe and I wonder how fast it goes, and as many of us can agree - time flies at our age!! These kids have a lot of living to do ....... Now, at least, I can see the inside of my refrigerator - the boy's appetite has definitely slowed down, so I guess it was a good thing that he was eating so much just a few short weeks ago. We are so blessed to see Michael feeling so good, and always in such good spirits - what a boost to all of us emotionally. I can tell that he is feeling good, as he and I sometimes don't always agree about the arrangements of my "stuff", our pictures, and the other little necessities that make up our home - I KNOW that he is okay now that this has started. He is HOME, feeling good and I guess I will have to live with his decorating tips (for now at least) ...

I am always one step ahead of him however, so, Mom's way will usually win!!!
Archie's place is still open, so please feel free to come and visit - the kid likes the company and he is never at a loss for a story ........

Mom

Quick Thanks & Shout-Out

I want to "publicly" say how proud I am of my brother and my family. They continue to astonish me with their strength! Michael has dealt with everything so well and continues to amaze me with his fantastic attitude during his therapy. I'm confident that this will all be a bump in his road, as Dr. Stieg initially said. I also want to say thank you to everyone out there who has sent e-mails & letters, made visits, or even thought about us in your prayers. It means the world to us. This has helped us gain perspective on life (honestly!) and helped me to appreciate those around me and all that I have. Love you Michael, Mom and Dad! Keep up the great work! -- T.J.

Chemo Set to Begin

Hope everyone is having a great weekend. Nice that its almost 70 degrees Farenheit here in Connecticut. My meeting with the medical oncologist went very well yesterday at Yale. T.J. came with me (thanks pal) and also acted as my personal assistant taking notes. My appointment was at 9AM and lasted until almost 12 Noon. We had lunch and then I went for my radiation treatment.

As expected, the oncologist prescribed the drug known as Temodar. I will start the prescription tonight (Nov. 1) and be on it for approximately 35 days. I have to take it when I go to bed along with another pill. So I will let you know how it is going in several days.

Yesterday was Halloween, I got the call to give out candy. I haven't seen so many kids in I don't know how long. It was pretty fun though.

Hope to speak soon, Michael