Chemo is not fun. Two weeks in have left Paul very tired and with little appetite. The last few days have seen a couple days where he has a little bit more of an appetite, but at a time when Paul needs food and fuel, he had no desire to eat. This is the third week after chemo, so we are hoping for an upswing in energy and appetite.
Brother John took Paul in for a check-up on Friday. Blood work from that day indicated that there will be no change in his chemo - he will stay the course set out for him earlier.
One thing that may help his energy and appetite is getting "tapped." Today he will get his abdomen fluid drained again.
Thanksgiving was low-key, but most of the family was together in Larimore. Plenty of eating and plenty of decorating for Christmas. We are anticipating a full house at Christmas. The "usual supsects" will be there - John and his family, Jane, David, Paul and Family, Susie and family - and hopefully even Ardis and family will be here. We are also hoping Stephanie's parents from England will be here as well. This gives us something to look forward to!
Check out information about the benefit planned for Paul on December 10 on the sidebar of this blog! THANK YOU!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Don't Miss the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Paul is feeling marginally better and had an appetite this morning for split pea soup. Hmm... the new breakfast of champions? Whatever the case may be, it was good to hear he had a craving for some food.
Steph has been busy researching all things cancer and chemo related. She has been able to do her work from home as well, which has been a blessing. She does need to go into the office for some things, but has been able to be flexible with that. Her colleagues have been great. All of Paul's siblings appreciate her wonderful care for our brother and her attentiveness to our Mom as well - her plate is full, but she continues to find room for more.
Emma and Sarah have been busy with school and friends. Both have a solid network of frienship and support.
Paul's colleagues and supervisors have been great as well. And now his old "Booth Avenue" buddy Ryan has been working away in the back addition to get it ready. The Hougens have been surrounded by some pretty spectacular friends and family. Thank you, thank you.
Now - if you happen to be a parade watcher, you are in for a treat this Thanksgiving. We are proud to announce our nephew Erik will be parading down the streets of New York City carrying the string on one of the floats: Kaikai and Kiki. We weren't sure who these characters were either - kind of some odd looking creatures from Japan. Either way, you can bet we will all be watching the parade around 9:57 Central Standard Time to see if we can catch a glimpse of Erik and the balloons.
Happy Thanksgiving, all. In the midst of these tough times, we are keenly aware of all our blessings. Our mom's prayer is still the best: God bless you that you may be a blessing to others.
Steph has been busy researching all things cancer and chemo related. She has been able to do her work from home as well, which has been a blessing. She does need to go into the office for some things, but has been able to be flexible with that. Her colleagues have been great. All of Paul's siblings appreciate her wonderful care for our brother and her attentiveness to our Mom as well - her plate is full, but she continues to find room for more.
Emma and Sarah have been busy with school and friends. Both have a solid network of frienship and support.
Paul's colleagues and supervisors have been great as well. And now his old "Booth Avenue" buddy Ryan has been working away in the back addition to get it ready. The Hougens have been surrounded by some pretty spectacular friends and family. Thank you, thank you.
Now - if you happen to be a parade watcher, you are in for a treat this Thanksgiving. We are proud to announce our nephew Erik will be parading down the streets of New York City carrying the string on one of the floats: Kaikai and Kiki. We weren't sure who these characters were either - kind of some odd looking creatures from Japan. Either way, you can bet we will all be watching the parade around 9:57 Central Standard Time to see if we can catch a glimpse of Erik and the balloons.
Happy Thanksgiving, all. In the midst of these tough times, we are keenly aware of all our blessings. Our mom's prayer is still the best: God bless you that you may be a blessing to others.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Week One
Today marks one week after chemo began. Recovery from chemo has been rough but not unexpected for Paul.
On Friday, Paul went back to Altru and had a port "installed." The day wore him out, but it will be a good thing to have that port for future treatments, blood work, etc.
He is dealing with the side-effects of a myriad of things - the chemo itself, the medications, the procedures, the pain killers, etc. Peace and quiet is what he appreciates on most days - and a warm bath!
Yesterday he seemed to feel a bit better, just in time for the Vikings game... that's another story.
It's amazing the close-knit community of families who have dealt with cancer. Paul and Steph have received so many tips and words of encouragement, many of which have been put to use already.
We are hoping the negative side-effects of the chemo diminish this week and that the relief of his symptoms begins.
We continue to be grateful for your support and encouragement!
On Friday, Paul went back to Altru and had a port "installed." The day wore him out, but it will be a good thing to have that port for future treatments, blood work, etc.
He is dealing with the side-effects of a myriad of things - the chemo itself, the medications, the procedures, the pain killers, etc. Peace and quiet is what he appreciates on most days - and a warm bath!
Yesterday he seemed to feel a bit better, just in time for the Vikings game... that's another story.
It's amazing the close-knit community of families who have dealt with cancer. Paul and Steph have received so many tips and words of encouragement, many of which have been put to use already.
We are hoping the negative side-effects of the chemo diminish this week and that the relief of his symptoms begins.
We continue to be grateful for your support and encouragement!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Chemo, cont.
Paul had a six-hour chemo drip yesterday in Grand Forks. Steph reports that the room and amenities were all very nice. They try to make it as comfortable as possible for patients and family. Paul has "shy" veins, however. He was very patient as they tried five times to get the right one, and plans are set for Paul to get a port this Friday. His nurse is a cancer survivor herself, and she told them that a port is the only way to go. That will make things so much easier for everyone!
He went to bed feeling fine last night, and Steph said he actually slept quite well.
Today, Chemo Day + One, was not a good day. Paul has been knocked out a bit by the chemotherapy. I guess we'd like to think that means the chemo is doing it's job; it's some potent, powerful stuff.
Again, our Mom's prayer works the best: "God bless Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah that they may continue to be blessings to others."
Thank you all for being blessings to our family...
He went to bed feeling fine last night, and Steph said he actually slept quite well.
Today, Chemo Day + One, was not a good day. Paul has been knocked out a bit by the chemotherapy. I guess we'd like to think that means the chemo is doing it's job; it's some potent, powerful stuff.
Again, our Mom's prayer works the best: "God bless Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah that they may continue to be blessings to others."
Thank you all for being blessings to our family...
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Chemo 101
Paul will begin chemo on Monday. His chemo treatment will be six hours at the Altru hospital. He will then have three weeks off before his next treatment. Doctors will determine the treatment and timeline of future sessions based on how Paul responds to the first treatment.
They hope the chemo treatments have some quick effects on the fluid build up in his abdomen and in his right lung. They also hope the chemo relieves the pain in his back. Radiation is recommended for the cancer in his lower back, but if they started radiation it would delay the chemo.
The last two days Paul has felt stronger. He had his abdomen and lung drained Monday, but he felt a little nauseous afterwards. Now he's feeling better and has made a trip to Grand Forks - not to see a doctor! He made supper last night as well - a little more "normal." Today he and Steph made a run to Grand Forks to shop for a comfy chair for his chemo recuperation time.
Paul is preparing for the treatments, and friends have helped him in the preparation too with nice notes and good visits. He's received some tips about chemo as well. Our cousin gave him a Chemo 101 update - she even named names as to who it the best nurse for finding the vein!
Again, thanks from all of Paul's family. We are overwhelmed with this turn of events and are left numb at times, but our hearts are full. We are surrounded by some very caring family and friends.
Our Mom prayed with us last night, "God bless Paul that he may continue to be a blessing to others." That is our daily prayer, and know that your kind attention is a blessing to us. So, "May God bless you that you may continue to be a blessing to others."
They hope the chemo treatments have some quick effects on the fluid build up in his abdomen and in his right lung. They also hope the chemo relieves the pain in his back. Radiation is recommended for the cancer in his lower back, but if they started radiation it would delay the chemo.
The last two days Paul has felt stronger. He had his abdomen and lung drained Monday, but he felt a little nauseous afterwards. Now he's feeling better and has made a trip to Grand Forks - not to see a doctor! He made supper last night as well - a little more "normal." Today he and Steph made a run to Grand Forks to shop for a comfy chair for his chemo recuperation time.
Paul is preparing for the treatments, and friends have helped him in the preparation too with nice notes and good visits. He's received some tips about chemo as well. Our cousin gave him a Chemo 101 update - she even named names as to who it the best nurse for finding the vein!
Again, thanks from all of Paul's family. We are overwhelmed with this turn of events and are left numb at times, but our hearts are full. We are surrounded by some very caring family and friends.
Our Mom prayed with us last night, "God bless Paul that he may continue to be a blessing to others." That is our daily prayer, and know that your kind attention is a blessing to us. So, "May God bless you that you may continue to be a blessing to others."
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Tapped...
Paul was "tapped" this morning. His abdomen was drained, and for the first time, his right lung was drained. He may be a bit sore, but the hope is that he has more energy and more appetite! Steph is counting on a good meal this evening.
Chemo is now slated for next Monday. He needs to be on a folic-acid rich diet prior to this beginning. Today, in addition to some anti-nausea and pain medication, he also received a shot of B 12. Steph asked for a shot too, but they were stingy and only gave Paul the energy boost!
The chemo schedule will be one day of chemo, three weeks off. They will see how he responds to the treatments and adjust or extend accordingly. Radiation will take place after chemo, as the doctor feels that the chemo will help ease the pain in his back as well.
Again, Paul and Steph are so appreciate of the kindness and support they are receiving. "Random Acts of Kindness" are a good thing!
Chemo is now slated for next Monday. He needs to be on a folic-acid rich diet prior to this beginning. Today, in addition to some anti-nausea and pain medication, he also received a shot of B 12. Steph asked for a shot too, but they were stingy and only gave Paul the energy boost!
The chemo schedule will be one day of chemo, three weeks off. They will see how he responds to the treatments and adjust or extend accordingly. Radiation will take place after chemo, as the doctor feels that the chemo will help ease the pain in his back as well.
Again, Paul and Steph are so appreciate of the kindness and support they are receiving. "Random Acts of Kindness" are a good thing!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Starting out the week...
...Paul was pleased that the Vikings made a heroic comeback to start out this week with a win. Although tired and understandably worn out from his thorough check-up at the Mayo Clinic, Paul had enough energy to watch the Vikes Sunday afternoon. What a faithful fan!
Friends and family were around to visit this weekend. One thing Paul, Steph, and the girls have learned is the simple power of a kind word or act. Paul has received many messages from friends, co-workers, and even customers. All of our family is thankful for every kindness.
Paul's biggest discomfort at this point is the fluid that builds up in his abdomen. He is going to get that "tapped" today, which will give him great relief. His right lung has also filled up with fluid, so plans are to drain that as well. This fluid build-up really cuts into his energy.
Chemo is to begin Thursday. Radiation for his back is not scheduled yet, but it will be commencing soon.
Stephanie has really hit the books. She is researching any and all possibilities for Paul's treatment and comfort. "Knowledge is power!"
In other news, our Dad's condition has deteriorated rather dramatically, and he is being moved to a nursing home in Grand Forks to better handle his dementia. Our Mom is handling it as well as she can, but with everything going on, we know any visits, calls, or notes would help lift her spirits a bit. If you know Vella, you know phone call isn't necessary before you come over. Stop on by, and she'll be delighted to put on some coffee.
Friends and family were around to visit this weekend. One thing Paul, Steph, and the girls have learned is the simple power of a kind word or act. Paul has received many messages from friends, co-workers, and even customers. All of our family is thankful for every kindness.
Paul's biggest discomfort at this point is the fluid that builds up in his abdomen. He is going to get that "tapped" today, which will give him great relief. His right lung has also filled up with fluid, so plans are to drain that as well. This fluid build-up really cuts into his energy.
Chemo is to begin Thursday. Radiation for his back is not scheduled yet, but it will be commencing soon.
Stephanie has really hit the books. She is researching any and all possibilities for Paul's treatment and comfort. "Knowledge is power!"
In other news, our Dad's condition has deteriorated rather dramatically, and he is being moved to a nursing home in Grand Forks to better handle his dementia. Our Mom is handling it as well as she can, but with everything going on, we know any visits, calls, or notes would help lift her spirits a bit. If you know Vella, you know phone call isn't necessary before you come over. Stop on by, and she'll be delighted to put on some coffee.
Friday, November 5, 2010
so.. I'm sorry but this is not an update.. I found this on a blog that I pay attention to, and then went to White Castle's website to confirm this was an actual product. Guess what? It is! This is a White Castle candle that produces the scent of a slyder. After paying attention to the posts on your health, and reading that White Castle is one of the things that stays down, I thought of you immediately.. I have heard of aromatherapy helping in some situations but I'm not to sure about the power of this scent. I know this isn't the most helpful post Paul, but I hope it will produce a good laugh.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Back Home
Paul and Steph are back home in Larimore and happy to be there too!
Chemotherapy is slated to begin November 11 at Altru in Grand Forks. If there is a cancellation, Paul could get started earlier. Everyone is relieved that this can begin.
A note that shows just how lovable and charming Paul can be. Of course there have been many tears on this journey, but Steph reported that even the oncologist was in tears on Tuesday at the Mayo Clinic.
Not everyone knows this, but back in his elementary days, Paul had a trick if his Booth Avenue buddies picked him up for school before he could give his Mom a hug and a kiss. He'd start down the sidewalk and then "remember" that he left something at home. He'd run back and give Mom a hug and kiss and be on his way. That Paul Hougen charm must work on the oncologist too?
Have you picked out Paul in the picture? He's the cutie by the cake. Do check out sister Jane adjusting her glasses. She's always been a rebel. We'll try to get some more pictures posted as well.
Thanks for checking in. We have a lengthy prayer list going on, and to the previous list, I can add: Catholic-Lutheran, Irish, German, French, Dane (Mutt:)), Burro, Polar Bear, mother, daughter, sister, Michiganer, Idahoan, cousin, friend, teacher, pastor, scientist, in-law, buddy, aunt... Many, many thanks.
Chemotherapy is slated to begin November 11 at Altru in Grand Forks. If there is a cancellation, Paul could get started earlier. Everyone is relieved that this can begin.
A note that shows just how lovable and charming Paul can be. Of course there have been many tears on this journey, but Steph reported that even the oncologist was in tears on Tuesday at the Mayo Clinic.
Not everyone knows this, but back in his elementary days, Paul had a trick if his Booth Avenue buddies picked him up for school before he could give his Mom a hug and a kiss. He'd start down the sidewalk and then "remember" that he left something at home. He'd run back and give Mom a hug and kiss and be on his way. That Paul Hougen charm must work on the oncologist too?
Have you picked out Paul in the picture? He's the cutie by the cake. Do check out sister Jane adjusting her glasses. She's always been a rebel. We'll try to get some more pictures posted as well.
Thanks for checking in. We have a lengthy prayer list going on, and to the previous list, I can add: Catholic-Lutheran, Irish, German, French, Dane (Mutt:)), Burro, Polar Bear, mother, daughter, sister, Michiganer, Idahoan, cousin, friend, teacher, pastor, scientist, in-law, buddy, aunt... Many, many thanks.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
The Plan
Paul and Steph are heading back home today, after two days in Rochester this week. They are anxious to get back home.
As of now, all of Paul's records are being sent to Altru in Grand Forks. The recommendation is to start chemotherapy and radiation.
Please share this blog address with family and friends so they can keep posted and send messages to Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah. Now that they will be home for awhile instead of in various waiting rooms and exam rooms of the Mayo Clinic, they will have time to catch up on the messages.
We have a lot of praying going on - Hougens, Leys, Norwegians, British, Lutherans, Non-Denominationals, Anglicans, Fightin' Irish, North Dakotans, Catholics, Kansans, Minnesotans, Viking Fans, New Yorkers, Chicagoans, Washington D.C.-folk, and I've heard a few accomplished swearers and cursers have sent up a few as well. Keep it up and keep it going.
As of now, all of Paul's records are being sent to Altru in Grand Forks. The recommendation is to start chemotherapy and radiation.
Please share this blog address with family and friends so they can keep posted and send messages to Paul, Steph, Emma, and Sarah. Now that they will be home for awhile instead of in various waiting rooms and exam rooms of the Mayo Clinic, they will have time to catch up on the messages.
We have a lot of praying going on - Hougens, Leys, Norwegians, British, Lutherans, Non-Denominationals, Anglicans, Fightin' Irish, North Dakotans, Catholics, Kansans, Minnesotans, Viking Fans, New Yorkers, Chicagoans, Washington D.C.-folk, and I've heard a few accomplished swearers and cursers have sent up a few as well. Keep it up and keep it going.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Back to the Mayo
Paul and Steph headed back to Rochester after a quick trip home to Larimore.
An odd piece of gastronomical news: Paul's abdomen fills up with fluid, which makes quite a dent in his appetite. He knows he needs to eat to keep up his strength, however. He's discovered that Ensure/Ice Cream shakes go down, he also discovered that White Castle burgers hit the spot. So, he's doing the senior citizen/Harold & Kumar food plan. Whatever works!
At Paul's appointment today, he learned that the primary source of his cancer is the lung. Fortunately, they were able to get Paul into a pulmonary oncologist tomorrow morning. This is hopefully where a treatment plan will get hammered out.
He and Steph took home several pounds of informational literature about cancer, chemotherapy, and other medical "stuff." That will make for some light reading tonight.
Paul feels quite certain that he has a lot of praying going on for him. I am certain he's right. Please keep Paul Daniel, Steph, Emma, and Sarah in your prayers. Pray for those doctors too. We want those doctors to be at the very top of their games when dealing with Paul!
An odd piece of gastronomical news: Paul's abdomen fills up with fluid, which makes quite a dent in his appetite. He knows he needs to eat to keep up his strength, however. He's discovered that Ensure/Ice Cream shakes go down, he also discovered that White Castle burgers hit the spot. So, he's doing the senior citizen/Harold & Kumar food plan. Whatever works!
At Paul's appointment today, he learned that the primary source of his cancer is the lung. Fortunately, they were able to get Paul into a pulmonary oncologist tomorrow morning. This is hopefully where a treatment plan will get hammered out.
He and Steph took home several pounds of informational literature about cancer, chemotherapy, and other medical "stuff." That will make for some light reading tonight.
Paul feels quite certain that he has a lot of praying going on for him. I am certain he's right. Please keep Paul Daniel, Steph, Emma, and Sarah in your prayers. Pray for those doctors too. We want those doctors to be at the very top of their games when dealing with Paul!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)