First, the meds.
I had been having more pain in my back and we talked with our excellent local Dr. about whether it was me getting acclimated to the methadone I have been taking or whether there were issues in my back. We decided to up the dose in any case.
Turns out that all methadone is not created equal. Apparently, different manufacturers use different fillers and some different methodologies that can impact individuals. I happen to be sensitive to this apparently and it really knocked me for a loop. Was like going into withdrawal. I was very sick. Sickest feelings I can remember having. Felt like I was dying.
We ultimately got back to the original manufacturer and things started getting better.
Then I had a UTI And the mediation was not working and some of the other medication they gave me for anxiety all worked together to cause my body to get too much methadone and I got REALLY sick all over again. Hsd to be in the hospital twice.
We hope now that is being fixed fixed and may be making some progress...but it has been a very hard last 4-6 weeks.
The MRI scans did come back here in Boise and showed that I had new tumors in my lumbar spine. We sent these down to MD Anderson and they reviewed them and agreed. Several small tumors, but one that is pressing up against my spinal chord.
We are scheduled now to go down to Houston in late May for a bunch of tests and then consultation.
I expect they will want to irradiate the very small ones, but will probably have to operate on the one. I expect that will be scheduled for late summer or early fall.
This was not good news...but I have been stable and in better than expected shape for the last 6 years and so you have to take what comes and trust in the Lord. That is what I am going to continue to do.
Please remember us in your prayers. As always, Gail has been an angel through all of this. She is taking care of her Dad (her Dad and Mom moved into a small apartment we built onto our house) and me. I love her so.
John and Dolly, could you guys ping everyone to my update at 2013?
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/2420449/posts?page=2103#2103
I cannot seem to find my own ping list.
Than you both and God bless.
Prayers for you.
Jeff, you’ve been posting a lot lately so this is a shock that you are going through this (again). I thought things were good. Prayers up for best of outcomes in May and of course a full healing. Refuah shelemah. Prayers for your loving wife as well.
Prayers offered.
Prayers up Jeff. Keep the faith and God bless.
Jeff, you have been in my thoughts and Prayers since this adventure in Medicine began for you.
I have no doubt you will get through this new situation as well. I have looked upon you for inspiration from afar as I dealt with my own Leukemia Diagnosis.
Last year a severe Lung Infection most likely due to ten Years of Chemotherapy impacting my Immune System almost got the best of me, but like you I have been very fortunate in having a great Medical Team and Family support to help get through it.
Just wanted you to know that I and many others here appreciate your bravery, positive attitude and your willingness to share the ups and downs of your Life Journey with us.
Wishing the best to you and yours my FRiend.
Coming from a “non-practicing” Catholic, I believe you are Married to a Saint. Unfortunately, I don’t have much pull with the Church to make it official. LOL
God Bless Jeff. Keep on Truckin... #;^)
Prayers for your healing, your doctors, your wife, and your family.
I know we disagree over theological things; but you have shown great faith in what you believe in.
You are a tough ol’ bird to have been going through all of these trials for so long and still have the energy and desire to interface with the rest of the world.
You are blessed mightily to have the type of family you do: those who can (and WILL!) take care of each other.
My prayer is for endurance, strength and healing for you and all of your loved ones.
Prayers for you, and comfort in the knowledge that faith gives us.
Jeff, I am sorry to hear of your latest trials.
I am heartened that the doctors were able to find the tumors while they were small. Years ago, they might never be detected.
I have prayed that the tumors can be dealt with without surgery.
Perhaps all this is so that you can encourage others upon your return to MD Anderson.
You uniquely know what they are going through.
Looking over the thread, I am reminded that the Lord has been gracious in the past.
Like Hezekiah, He turned the clock back on you and granted you life, and I know you have done your very best to be worthy of such a gift.
You are a treasure here on Free Republic and you are held in very high esteem amongst your fellow Freepers.
We are all pulling for you.
God bless you and Gail.
Godspeed
Jeff