Beer Me!

It has been over a week since Nonnie went back to UCLA to get her second chemotherapy treatment. Her blood counts are continuing to plunge, in fact, they are lower now than they ever got before! Since the onset of symptoms, Nonnie lost approximately 25 pounds. Fortunately, she is slowly getting her appetite back. Her new favorite things to eat are pancakes or a hot dog with 7 mustards! Not 6 or 8. Since discovering this cool new diet, she has gained 3 pounds. 

Yesterday afternoon, the hospital staff decided to expand the quarantine to Papa. He was asked to wear a gown, booties and mask similar to the ones that the staff had been wearing. Papa would do most anything for Nonnie, but that was a little over the top. He decided to go down the street to grab a bite to eat and watch a movie. When he takes his walks, there is a restaurant that he has had his eye on for a while. As he walked in and asked for a table for 1, the hostess gave him a look as if he was homeless. 

He looked around the restaurant and noticed that all of the guests were wearing at least a coat, if not more dressy! He looked down and couldn't help but notice he was wearing his favorite shorts and t-shirt. If Papa has learned anything over the past couple of months, it is not to sweat the small stuff. The cold beer was the perfect way to wash down the $18 burger!

Nonnie Knows Best

When Papa returned to UCLA this morning, he was glad that Nonnie decided to stay in the hospital instead of going home. The doctors had anticipated her blood counts to start dropping later in the week, but she had a different idea. Her hemoglobin and white cells have already begun to drop, which prompted a blood transfusion this afternoon. 

Despite being tired from not getting much rest last night, she was able to log 3 walks today! The doctors are testing her for a possible virus, which may just turn out to be a side affect of the chemotherapy. In the meanwhile, Nonnie was placed in quarantine inside her room. Only this time, it is not too bad because Papa is with her. 

Right On Track

I spoke with Nonnie tonight, and you would never know what she had just endured over the weekend! You will all find comfort in knowing that she sounded very positive and upbeat during our conversation. It is always a good sign when Papa feels comfortable enough in going home for the night. The doctor even asked if she felt like going home for a couple of days! The reason why the doctor said that, is because he does not expect her counts to begin going down for a few days. They decided that it would be easier staying in hospital, instead of being discharged and go through admissions again later in the week. In the meantime, she is feeling well, but she still has not found her appetite yet. 

Nonnie Does A 180

After a couple of horrible days, Nonnie came back swinging today. She began to start feeling much better last night and throughout the day. Somehow, she mustered up the energy to take a couple of walks today as she prepared to have her last chemotherapy treatment this evening. What an amazing difference from the weekend! Her strength and will to fight is so amazing and we are all so proud of her. We must now sit back and trust God, as he begins heal Nonnie. 

Winding Down

After fighting a fever for almost 48 hours, Nonnie finally broke it this afternoon. The fever has completely wiped out her appetite and energy level. To get an idea of how tough it was on her body, she does not recall any of yesterdays events. She started her new chemotherapy medication last night at 5 PM.  The drug is called Etoposide, and she is scheduled for 3 treatments spaced 24 hours apart. Today, she received 2 units of blood, anti-fungal medication, eye drops, Etoposide, Benadryl, Tylenol and Cytarabine. 

We are looking forward to tomorrow, as Nonnie is getting her 8th and final Cytarabine treatment at 8 AM and her 3rd and last Etoposide treatment at 5 PM. Nonnie has proven she is a fierce warrior and that she came to battle. Keep up the good work!

Increased Dose

Yesterday was a brutal day for Nonnie. She was awake all night with a fever, and it lasted throughout the entire day. At one point, her temperature was 104 degrees. Along with Tylenol, the nurses packed her in ice to reduce the temperature. This caused her to begin to shiver, and then warm blankets were placed on her because shivering is our bodies mechanism to get warmth.

This chemotherapy treatment is approximately 10 times the strength of the first round. Last round, it was on day 12 that she began to have a fever. She should be done in the next day or so with the current treatment, and her doctor spoke of giving an additional chemotherapy medication afterwards. She has completely lost her appetite, which causes her to become weak and tired.

Fight, Fight, Fight!

It should not come as a surprise, that today was going to be a very busy day for Nonnie and Papa. There were multiple doctors and nurses that came by to exam, take vital signs and administer medications to her throughout the day. It sounded so exhausting, but somehow she managed to sneak in a couple of walks in between all of the attention she was getting. The bone marrow biopsy tests came back, and the leukemia is still in her blood as anticipated by the doctors.

I learned that the Cytarabine treatment is actually being administered every 12 hours, over a 2 hour period for 4-5 days. She is getting her third dose as I write this entry tonight. The dose is stronger than the last, and she is feeling the adverse effects sooner than before. She feels a little weak, loss of appetite and she began to have a fever when I was on the phone with Papa. One of the side affects of Cytarabine is damage to the cornea of the eye. She needs to use a medicated eye drop to avoid potential damage. 

I remain very optimistic, as the symptoms she is experiencing must mean the potent drug is working. I have confidence that she is in the best of care, as the picture from yesterday states "Best in the West". Moreover, she has God watching over her each and every second of the day! Good night.

Getting Back Into The Routine

As you all know, Nonnie returned to UCLA this morning for another round of chemotherapy. There were a few familiar faces, which helped ease some anxiety about going back today. The staff took an x-ray of her PICC line to make sure it is still patent, and Nonnie got another bone marrow biopsy. We do not have any results yet, but hopefully tomorrow I can give updated information. She is scheduled to begin her chemotherapy at 8 P.M. tonight. This will be a higher concentration, single dose given once a day for 5 days. Below is her new contact information:

Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center

757 Westwood Plaza

C/O Linda Asam, Room 6131 

Los Angeles, CA

90095

(310) 267-6145

Change Is Good

These last six weeks have been emotional, uplifting and inspiring to all those who have been following Nonnie's story. It is incredible to see so many people, literally coast to coast, give so many words of encouragement and countless prayers in order to show their love for Nonnie. As she prepares to return to UCLA for her second round of induction chemotherapy, Nonnie wants to thank everyone for their support. 

Whether you have spoken to her in person, over the phone or have been following this blog, I am sure that each of us has changed for the better in some way. Her strength continues to amaze me and I pray that her body responds favorably to this therapy.  

Lifetime Friendship

Papa was able to go out and do his errands as planned today, while Pam came over to babysit Nonnie. They had an awesome visit together, catching up and sharing over 40 years of memories. Having company during the day helps Nonnie not only pass the time, but it also keeps her mind from going into overdrive. She is continuing her daily walks around the house, and she even walked up to the top of the street today with Pam. Doug and Annie also stopped by for a quick visit this afternoon. Tomorrow will be spent packing up in preparation for the return trip to UCLA. I believe this short break away from the hospital is what Nonnie needed prior to going back for her next battle. 

Familiar Faces

Over the past several weeks, Nonnie has not had an appetite for anything other than peanut butter & jelly sandwiches. She was able to eat steak and baked potato for dinner the last 2 nights. Lisa went out to visit her mother today, followed by a visit from Mike and Mary. Papa picked up the kids from school as they always have until Mike and Shannon get off work. It was nice to have some normalcy back in their home this afternoon. 

The home health nurse came by to take Nonnie's vital signs and draw blood samples. She felt very good today and is looking forward to tomorrow. Papa is going to get out to do some errands, and since Pam is in town from Lake Havasu, she is coming over to spend time with Nonnie. Remember, it was Pam, Bubbles and Jack that worked together to find the perfect wig for Nonnie. I have had this picture for a few weeks, and I feel it is time to introduce you to "Robert" her hairdresser while Nonnie poses for a picture in her new look.  

Mothers Day

Yesterday was a special day for our entire family, as we celebrated Mothers day with Nonnie. There were so many emotions felt throughout the entire day. The kids made a giant welcome home card with personalized messages and pictures attached. You can imagine how emotional that was for Nonnie to read, and equally emotional for us to watch her read them. Kids say the most candid and sweet things that make a persons heart melt, and eyes swell with tears. Perhaps the most touching memory I have, was when Sydnee gave her Nonnie a hug that seemed to last an eternity, as neither wanted to let go. I couldn't help but notice that Lisa and I were simultaneously in tears watching the bond that they share.

Nonnie has always loved to watch the kids, whatever they may be doing. She sat in the backyard for a couple of hours watching all 5 grandkids swim, play baseball, ping pong and have water balloon fights. Papa pulled off an awesome dinner with filet mignon, baked potato, bread, salad and veggies. He topped it off with a yummy strawberry bundt cake served with ice cream. This was a typical weekend day at their house for the last 13 years since I have been with the family! We are all grateful that Nonnie was able to come home for a quick reprieve before going back to battle. We love you Nonnie!

Homecoming

For the first time in over a month, Nonnie was able to wake up in her own bed and relax all day yesterday. I can only imagine how nice it must have been for Papa having his bride home again after so long! She has always been the catalyst and strength in our family, holding us together and sharing her love with everybody. We are looking forward to going out to Riverside this afternoon to share Mothers day with the whole family. It has been since Easter since Nonnie has seen the grandkids, so I know it is going to a fun afternoon for all of us. 

The Battle Continues

As I sit here trying to make sense of today's events, I am having a difficult time trying to collect my thoughts and put it to words. Nonnie and Papa were at the hospital today and learned the results from her bone marrow biopsy. Although she put up a good fight, unfortunately the leukemia is not gone and she is not in remission. What this means, is that she will need to start the "induction" chemotherapy all over again starting next Thursday (reference "The Battle Is On").

As they were leaving the hospital this evening, the staff told her that it is not uncommon for this to happen. I am encouraged that she knows from experience what to expect, and that the same excellent team will be waiting for her. Nonnie and Papa are at home tonight hoping to get caught up on some much needed rest. Let us continue to pray for Nonnie, as she spends Mother's day weekend at home with her family and grandchildren. 

Practicing Medicine

I spoke with Nonnie a few minutes ago, and she sounds great. Sometimes you can tell she is putting up a strong front to disguise how she really feels, but not tonight! Nonnie got a bone marrow biopsy done tonight at 5:00 P.M. The procedure is done by inserting a hollow needle into the hipbone and removing bone marrow, blood and a small piece of bone. A pathologist then views the bone marrow, blood and bone under a microscope to look for signs of cancer. They hope to get the results back sometime tomorrow.

One unique thing about being treated at UCLA, is that it is a teaching hospital. Tonight, her doctor that did her procedure had the opportunity to do his first bone marrow biopsy on Nonnie. Her nurse was waiting outside the door during the procedure, and she knew something was up when another nurse came out asking for more Lidocaine! She had already gave the doctor 2 vials to numb the area which usually takes about 10 minutes. Thirty minutes later, she was all done. I guess that is why they call it practicing medicine.

Separation Anxiety

Another good day today, only not as eventful as yesterday. Nonnie's blood counts are still climbing as expected. She is feeling a little anxious about going home, because the staff has been so attentive and ready to act when needed. The separation anxiety she is having from being at the hospital so long is completely normal. The staff would not put her in a situation that would place her in any danger. 

Papa has been nervous to ask the doctors about the results from the spinal taps over the past two weeks. Remember when they did the spinal tap, she got additional doses of chemotherapy in case the leukemia was in her spinal fluid. He got the news we all wanted to hear.....no leukemia in her spinal fluid! Nonnie and Papa shared this emotional news together yesterday when they were finally able to embrace again. 

Extra, Extra, Read All About It!

There was some incredible news that came out of room 6113 today. Nonnie's blood counts are higher than they have ever been, and still rising! This is what we have been waiting for so she can come home. Papa has started his training on cleaning and flushing her PICC line on a "prop", for when she goes home. Tomorrow is his big day...... he might get to practice on a actual patient that needs this done to give him some confidence. Kenny came by today for a visit. I wonder if Papa impressed him with his new nursing skills?

Papa is going home tomorrow to do his weekly yards and laundry routine. When he comes back on Wednesday, he will need to bring their SUV because they need to start bringing their accumulated items home. At least he can take the carpool back home later in the week...... because his passenger is going to be Nonnie! The doctors said that she is on track and feel confident that she will be strong enough to go home for Mothers Day. The only way to top that news, is to share that Papa got to hug his wife for the first time in over a month today!

Close Call

Nonnie was sound asleep at 5:00 A.M. this morning, when she was awoken by her nurse. Imagine how upset she must have been when she was told that her fever had returned! She reminded her nurse that this is what happens prior to becoming nauseous and having a horrible day. 

Of course, this prompted a battery of tests..... the staff took blood from her peripherally and another from her PICC line to check for an infection. In addition to the anti-nausea medication and Tylenol, she had a urine analysis and a chest x-ray before receiving fresh blood and platelets. 

Thank goodness that her nurse came in to check on her when she did! Because of her swift actions and subsequent treatment, Nonnie ended up having a wonderful day. When Lisa talked to her mom tonight, she had just returned from her third walk of the day. Back here at home, the Osterkamp family dropped off the most beautiful flower arrangement that brightened up our day.

Time For Rest

Last week was filled with ups and downs, smiles and frowns. Nonnie and Papa are relaxing tonight and are catching up on some much needed rest. The walls are getting smaller as the weeks pass by, as they wait in anticipation of going home soon. Keep up the good work Nonnie!

Power of Prayer

Today marks the end of 4 weeks since Nonnie was admitted into Riverside Community Hospital. All of the love and support she has received over the past month has been very overwhelming. She has heard from so many people via cards, letters, phone calls and posts on this blog. Her spirits get lifted up each and every time she reads or hears the encouraging words of support. The most incredible thing is the amount of people praying for her recovery around the entire United States. I know for sure that she is on prayer lists in Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, New Jersey and Oregon. If there are any others that I may have missed, please let us know.

She has continued to stay strong again today..... for those of you counting, that is 4 great days in a row! Despite all of the emotions and sickness that she has been dealing with, she is still the same sweet and loving Nonnie that you all remember. Carol and Tony stopped by on the way to the airport this morning. Mike and Shannon also came by for a visit. They all took a walk and stopped for a picture. After the picture was taken, Nonnie could not stop laughing. Everyone was wondering what was so funny. She told them that she was smiling for the photo and forgot she was wearing her mask. I can't wait to see that picture!