Hau'oli Makahiki Hou - Happy New Year.

ORIGIN: The western Christmas and New Year fell during the same time of the year that the Hawaiian's traditionally honored the earth for giving them plenty to eat. This period of resting and feasting was called Makahiki (mah-kah-HEE- kee). It lasted for 4 months, and no wars or conflicts were allowed during this time. Because makahiki also means "year", the Hawaiian phrase for "Happy New Year" became "Hau'oli (happy) Makahiki (year) Hou (new)"(how-OH-lee mah-kah-hee-kee ho) - And now you know!

No wars for 4 Months!? What a concept. A 4 Month party instead! Hmmmmm...

SESSION #8 WENT JUST GREAT! IT'LL ALL BE FINE IN 2009!!

"The more sand that has escaped from the hourglass of our life, the clearer we should see through it." - Jean-Paul Sartre

The Clock's Ticking...

Only one more day... Only one more day to put our affairs in order before the end of the year. One more day to think about all the things we didn't get done this year. Only one more day to talk to Friends and Family in 2008. Only one more day to make those resolutions for next year, the ones we're likely not to keep. And only one more day until Radiation Treatment #8!


OH, and speaking of TIME. Recently, while wandering around on the Web, I came across this rather entertaining look at time keeping. It's worth a look I think, the HUMAN CLOCK is "interesting" to say the least. Just CLICK on "View the Clock" If you'd like to know more about it, return to the Home page, and click on ABOUT. Turns out this Guy (Craig D. Giffin) seems to be a pretty interesting fellow and I've found him to be a bit inspiring. Thanks Craig. Oh, and I've added his HUMAN CALENDAR as one of my Gadgets here on the "Wandering" Blog.

And in the spirit of New Years Eve, here's a chance to put on your own FIREWORKS show. Ok, so you're probably wondering - "How's he got time for all this meaningless drivel?" Well, I guess it's good news in a way. Kelly had a Notary signing appointment Up-Country this morning, and I've been left to my own devices. It's been raining off and on all day, so pulling weeds has been out, and I'm actually feeling pretty darned good after treatment #7. Dry mouth is increasing, tongue's a little more sensitive, and the taste buds are about all gone. The good news (and there's always "good news") is, my RASH is really doing great. Everyone says so... Truth is, the bigger the rash (read that teenage acne at it's worst) the better the Chemotherapy (read that Erbitux) is working.

"I hope that while so many people are out smelling the Flowers, that someone is taking the time to plant some." - Herbert Rappaport

The Very Best Christmas Day...

Wednesday was quite the busy day. I'd gone back to Lahaina after my Tuesday treatment, so got up early, stopped by Take Home Maui for my favorite cup of morning coffee, the over to Kaiser for an early Blood test, and then off to Kahului to meet Kelly at Amanda's for Radiation. Following that, Kelly dropped me at Amanda's while she went off to run some errands, and I got ready to go with her to Pukalani, to spend the night. Most unexpectedly I got a call from Don, one of Kyle's Crew, who'd broken down on the way to a job in Lahaina. Well, I called Kelly and she followed me over to 1,000 Peaks where we left him Kyle's truck so he and the rest of the Crew could deal with it.



Then it was up to Kelly's in Pukalani, where I would be spending the night. Christmas day began with partly clear skies and a living room full of presents.

CLICK HERE to see Christmas morning photos.

I put on the coffee, and it wasn't long before Grayson was up, then Nanna Anne showed up, and by the time she and Gray had brought up all her gifts, Maddison and Mom & Dad were up too. Grayson got just about every BATMAN toy and game there is, and Madison received everything HANNA MONTANA. I think everyone got a wonderful collection of gifts, but the real capper came as the very last box to open.




More than a bit surprising, it was for me! It was a big box, and it came with instructions. Which everyone made certain I was to follow, to the "letter." I had a set of letters, a board with 5 words, and one letter in each word. One by one I was given a clue to figure out, and move on to the next.

And, I was to be sure it included all the "BELLS & WHISTLES" - to make sure, they'd even included an example to make sure I understood.Turns out this was organized and put together by Anne, and they managed to pull it off without me ever having any idea what was afoot. With somewhat more than $1,000.00 (and $5.00 in pennies - a "payback" from Christmas past...) I was told to get myself a Laptop Computer. Something I've gone without for all these years, figuring I'd get to it "someday...," and had just never done it. Well, I'm gonna do it now! HP here I come.

The following are the Group I have to thank for this wonderful opportunity:

Anne Wall
Amanda Jones
Kelly Maguire
Carl Stephens
Dan Snyder
Jeff Kaiser
Steve Taylor
Bonnie Nelson
John Wilson
Joanne Dennis
Jim & Nancy Killett
Doris Prockette

"Thank You" isn't quite enough, but it'll have to do until I can think of what is. Mahalo!

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect." ~ Oren Arnold

"5 Days 'Til Christmas" or Santa Visits Jones' Family

One of the many curses of the Technical Age, can often be a Blessing in discuise... TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES! Heralded by the "drum roll" ring tone of my Cell Phone, I received a call from Mylessia at the Clinic this morning, informing me that, "... the Machine wasn't working, and it might just not be, until tomorrow!" Well, that news came with mixed blessings, as all I want to do at this point is be done. But, it gives me ample space to share something esle instead, and this is JUST PLAIN FANTASTIC!

I'M SO PROUD OF THIS,

I'M BUSTIN' MY BUTTONS!!!

As I mentioned in the previous post, while at Amanda's on Saturday, December 20th, we were fortunate enough to have a Surprise visit by Santa Claus, as arranged by Dan "the Man" Snyder, as a "gift" to Amanda and the Kidz, Haily (19 months) and Tyler (3 years). Also joing us, and providing the excellent photos and video was Bonnie (Momma Duma) Nelson. Bonnie had brough along her collection of CHEETAH GIRLS music.

OK, that's enough of a lead in. Bonnie's put together a fabulous Jones Family Video, set a song by the Cheetah Girls, "5 More Days 'Til Christmas" which coincidentally was the count from our special evening. When you'll see it, I've no doubt you'll be able to tell why I'm so excited to share it, and also why I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful Family.

CLICK HERE to see the Video.

On a side note... it was a bit sad that Madison and Grayson were unable to join us, as their Mom had an important engagement (which worked out well for her I hear) and they spent the evening with Nanna Anne in Makawao, and also missed were Cody, Brittany, and Chase - Carl & Wendy's "little ones" who besides being in Las Vegas are probably just a wee bit "old" for Santa anyway. Regardless, they're MY GRANDKIDZ and I love 'em all a bunch.

My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?" ~ Bob Hope

‘Twas Four Days Before Christmas…

‘Twas four days before Christmas
At Manda’s we were
Momma Duma and Daniel
Also were there.

And with Cheetah Girls singing
The Turkey all gone
There was a great big surprise
About to go on.

While getting along gaily
Now who could have guessed?
That our Tyler and Hailey
Would wind up so blessed.

To have Santa Claus show up
His bag full of gifts
His arrival un-announced
His laughter so swift.

The Children were ecstatic
The Adults were too
It’s not hard to be Happy
With such a Great Crew!

Ok, so I’m not such a great poet, but I couldn't’t resist the temptation to pay tribute to Uncle Dan “the Man” Snyder who went above and beyond to make a visit from “you know who” a little bit early, since Amanda and Family are heading to Oregon on Monday, to be with Kyle’s Parents for a white Christmas.

Momma Duma (Bonnie Nelson) was kind enough to bring Dan, his two (wonderful) turkeys, the dancing music, news from the Universe, and a "Tiger’s Iron" Pyramid for yours truly. Earlier, I’d gotten a ride from Lahaina, with the “S” mans outfit and BAG from a Friend from Kula. What a great evening – the pictures should tell it all. Here’s wishing EVERYONE a Great Sunday, and be sure and take a moment or two, to THANK your GOD for our being here. Life is GOOD.

Santa's Visit Photo Album

Again, I'd like to express a special THANK YOU to Bonnie Nelson for the great photos & video of Santa's visit. Please check out her project Website The Cheetah Alliance to Unite the Children of the World, and to help save the Cheetahs, it's really quite interesting.

While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about. - Angela Schwindt

Just a little quiet time...

I think I can pretty fairly say, the Cell Wars have begun, and not all that unfavorably. The first Radiation Treatment on Thursday ran about 45 minuets, and I don't mind admitting, it was more than a bit "uncomfortable." The "mask," having now had a chance to set, was a wee bit more tight fitting than when we made it. Most noticeable was right below my Adam's apple, and every time I'd try to swallow, it was as if I was being choked. I tried to relax and be calm, which was fine, to a point, but the real problem was dealing with the teeth trays in, and the strained breathing, all I could think about was what's going to happen when the throat's sorer, the dry mouth is worse, and my patience is dwindling... that was what had me edgy. We also had a couple of false starts, which required some repositioning and prolonged things further.

But, finally we were done, the crew was satisfied, I was released, with the assurance that the rest of the sessions would go quicker. One bonus was they had a way lot of "treats" set out. You gotta love the Holidays. Orange chiffon cake, Red & Green Jello cubes, Banana Bread, and a dozen other assorted goodies - which the admonished, "Eat 'em now, while you feel like it!" Well, with encouragement like that, I did. Then it was off to Kaiser for my second (weekly) Chemo treatment of the Erbitux/Benedryl IV. Well, this was now half the initial dose, as will the rest be. Gotta tell you, it went even easier than the first one, which you may recall wasn't all that bad either. The REALLY good news is, that night came and went without the sweats, excessively dry mouth or the pounding headache. I was only up twice, and that was to make room for more water. So, the first week we'll say ended on a high note.

I drove back to Lahaina for the weekend, to tend to some personal business and to try and get further along with setting my apartment to order with my new desk and office arrangement. Dan Snyder pitched in, and together we actually made some progress.

So, at this point, I'm gonna let you all off the hook for a bit, and will be signing off until next week, when I'll report in again. I'll be ready to share the news of my recruiting a Transportation Team of stalwart supporters, to help fill in while Amanda's gone and relieve some of the burden on Kelly - and secretly, it'll provide me with a broad range of diversion and personal enjoyment to have time to spend with Friends who care enough to pitch in and help out this ol' Guy in his time of need. I'll also be intending to interject some of my past "Wanderings" of some of my more memorable adventures or encounters to break the monotony of this medical sh*t, and hopefully there will be a tale or two some of you might find entertaining.

Christmas is almost here. It's always been one of my favorite times of the year, which reminds me, for what it's worth and to anyone who's "listening," I've a request to make... PLEASE, if only where I'm concerned, please DO NOT ever, EVER use the abbreviation of "X-MAS." It is REALLY a pet peeve of mine, and not one I'm prone to lecture about, but it does gripe me, and this seemed a decent opportunity to announce it to the Universe, at least anyone who's listening. I'd encourage you to remember my simple request, and at every opportunity, to encourage each of you to pass it on, whenever you have occasion to encounter someone else doing so. It's CHRISTMAS Folks, and if you take CHRIST out of Christmas, all you have left is "mas" or one big MESS. Heck, after all, it's not about the presents, the cards, the candy or food, it's about Jesus Birthday, plain and simple. And, whether your Christian or not, believe in Santa or not, or whatever, can't we all just be big enough to realize it for what it is, and allow everyone the freedom to believe in as they choose, and not force anyone to not?

To my thinking it's just an extension of one of my stock questions, "Why cant we all just get along?" Give it a try, it doesn't take much, it costs nothing and there's always some way to fit in the other five letters. Give it a try. At least for me. MAHALO (Thank You.) Aloha Ya'll.

Oh hey... wait, what's that I hear??? Out in the back, up on the roof... coud it be? I don't know, I'd better go check.

"When the only tool you own is a hammer, every problem begins to look like a nail." - Abraham Maslow

Magical Maui Morning Makes Me Mellow...

Just a quick up-date - as yesterday did mark the begining of our 35 Days of Cell Wars (read that as the next 7 weeks). As you can see, it began as another typical Lahaina day in the Neighborhood. We've even gotten high tech in our Trash collection here now, starting bi-weekly pick-ups with the automated/one can process. The significance of this is, the trucks are so much quieter, one can actually sleep past their 5:30am arrival time!

So, as things turned out, we wound up going for the Radiation Treatment before the Chemo - evidently it doesn't matter all that much which happens when at this point.

Things went well, and the Chemo did too, had a good nights sleep, only woke up once with a bit of a dry throat and a "scratchy" tongue.

But now must dash of for my second Radiation session, at my now regular time of 10:10am. More on all this later.

Peace, Love & Groovey... Ron Wall

What! Me Worry...?

[FYI - The Flowers are from Friend Nicole, whom I've met recently through High School Buddy, Rick Ortenburger. Nicole's going to be visiting Oahu with her Family next month. It just goes to show, you don't always know how something you do or think is going to effect others... so do good things. THANK YOU Nicole.]

Well, maybe a little. Can't seem to think of any better reason for being up at 3:30AM this morning. Heck, the past two previous nights I actually managed to pretty much sleep through the whole night, in spite of the 47 Gallons of H2O sloshing around inside me somewhere.

So, I'm thinking that perhaps the call I got yesterday, from the Radiation Clinic, asking me to show up there - FOR MY FIRST TREATMENT - before I went for the Chemo at 11:00am could be the root of this current sleep disorder... Growing up, I never really got clear on how a "big Guy" acts scared, well, except for maybe a few times in the Military and one errant Toboggan ride while I was in High School, I don't recall much ever having needed too.

At first I tried to convince myself it was from an overdose of Longboard Lager at the Club last evening. I'd had occasion to meet up with a Friend, who was headed to Barnes & Noble on a bicycle, at night, with no lights, and had offered to give her and said bike a ride in Pearl, and then drop her at home. Which occasioned a second (and ultimately a third, as we'd found out B&N was actually open past 7:30pm, even in Lahaina). Given that I've had a total of about six in over the past three weeks, I probably did, which MAY be accounting for the dry mouth and achy tongue, which was I'm sure what awakened me in the first place.

Besides having the opportunity to come to the aid of a Damsel in "distress, and in addition to the usual cast of Characters at the Club (among them Stan "the Man" Anderson, finally back following his very successful knee surgery, Bill Carsten who shares my DOB, Bobby Powers - lobbying to switch Membership status with his Wife, so she could be the Club Secretary, John Domingo - explaining that he couldn't, Steve Taylor had even stopped in to settle an old debt - thank you Steve, and it was also a BOG meeting night -with both Boards attending - the place was hoppin'); Friends Leon O'Neill and Kathy had popped in as they're here from Redondo Beach until the end of January, and a BIG SURPRISE, stumbled (well not really, more like "wandered") into very good Friends Les & Judy Crouch, just in from Del Mar/Henderson/London for a couple weeks visit. For being such a small town, in the middle of the Pacific, you sure never know who's gonna pop-up here, which is one of the things I love so much about this place.

I digress... So, after a(nother) bottle of water, a dose of Magic Mouthwash, and 20 minutes of Video Poker, it's become clear to me, that there are "other things" scurrying about in the vast caverns of my psyche, and I've no one to distract me, talk to or drink with! Yikes. OK, so I'll admit it now, truth of the matter is, I guess I am "a little bit apprehensive" about all this. After a week the "rash" from the Chemo isn't all that bad, but it's becoming noticeable, and my forehead and scalp seem to be a bit more itchy than usual, so my concern there is growing. I've mostly just not thought about the Radiation, or even the fact that this is all because I DO HAVE CANCER. Yikes, guess that's gonna change for sure, tomorrow. Reality. What a ridiculous concept...

OK I feel better now. I'm telling you, this BLOG THERAPY works wonders. And speaking of wonders, the thing that's really got me walking in the clouds is all the support, love and encouragement I've been getting, and things have barely begun bothering me. Now that is overwhelming, and a reality I'd not expected. Oh my gosh, how am I ever gonna be able to repay or give back for all the positive reinforcement I've showered with. Well, can't think about that now, or as my Brother from a different Mother (Tom Warren) pointed out to me yesterday, "I'm gonna cry!" A reaction he'd had to the VERY OVERWHELMING response I'd gotten from my "Transportation Team Troopers" - which Dear Friends, is another story... OK, back to Sleepsville, as I've an early appointment with Destiny in a few short hours, like it or not...

"Failure is instructive. The person who really thinks learns quite as much from his failures as from his successes." - John Dewey

Whonk, Whoonk, Whooonnkk…

Again, Whonk, Whoonk, Whooonnkk… Trink Clink-Trink Clink; Arouke a Doodle Doo; Chawoof, Chawoof, Ahroo-roo-roo-roo-roouuu; Whooshhh, shaaaaa; and ah yes, there it is, faint at first, is the throaty gurgle of the Gevelia accompanied by the heady aroma of my cinnamon infused Lion’s French Roast, and I know, ANOTHER DAY HAS BEGUN. Not just any day mind you, this will be the last day before the Cell Wars begin…

Mango the Mala Mallard is making her figure eight cycles between the little park across the street, and Mark Ellman’s Mala Tavern, down by Safeway. The morning traffic has started its rhythmic patter as tires go rolling over the cast iron service cover by the driveway. The Roosters next door are in fine voice, and of course set the neighborhood Dogs (big and little) barking. And the ever present, incessantly steady refrain of the surf sings its Siren song. Ahhh, life is grand.

Whonk, Whaaack, Whaackk, Whaackk… that Duck is persistent. Kind of funny though, how she tends to quiet the dang Chickens… I hop out of bed and race to the door (OK, I slide out slowly, tread somewhat tentatively, and try to force my feeble eyes to focus) and behold the beginning of another GREAT day. HULA GIRL and SHANGRALA are stretched back on their moorings, reaching for Lanai, there’s a slight haze from the Vog, and through the dew drop dappled screen I can see several little Turtle heads bobbing in the surf, and I know (again) that LIFE IS GOOD. It’s high time to get up and about, too much to do, too little time in which to get it done.

I’m off for my Blood Test, and then back for dreaded domestic duties, and later, hopefully a call from “Little Brother” Dan, to do some furniture retrieval.



But before I "wander" off, I've got to share something I stumbled across the other day. Everyone knows my penchant for Computing, Children and Charities. Well they all came together for me the other day, and I was able to do something about it. I share it with you today, if for no other reason than it might just spark an impulse in someone, to share it with someone else, and eventually, SOMEONE will hop on the band wagon too.

The One Laptop per Child Foundation has a great program, who's mission is to put a Laptop in the hands of every child on the planet. Pretty ambitious concept, but what a great one. They can tell you about it better than I can, so check out their website at http://www.laptop.org/en/

The "real deal" is the GIVE ONE, GET ONE promotion currently being offered on AMAZON: www.amazon.com/xo For $200 you can give a Child (somewhere) literally a pathway to the future. For $400 you can do that and get one for yourself (to hopefully put in the hands of a Child of your own choosing). From there the sky's the limit. Consider this... Not all of have the means to drop a couple hundred bucks to help a kid we'll never know or ever see, but some of us do. Who knows how it'll affect that Child, the Guardian and Fabricator of our Future? But SOME OF US DO. Or what about forming a Hui (group of Family or Friends) with everyone throwing in $10~$20 and go from there. Heck, if an organization (or someone with really deep pockets) were to commit to 100 units, you could even choose where they went!!!

I've also got a story to share, which is what led to my actually doing something about the whole One Child, One Laptop thing, which I've been following for over a year. It's about a Fellow in Africa (Prince Bananah) with little in the way of material goods, whose greatest treasure is a cell phone, and his greatest gift, a love and respect for others. Bonnie Nelson was the source, and he was my inspiration. But that Dear Fellow Wanderer's - will have to be another time...


"Seek wisdom, not knowledge. Knowledge is of the past, Wisdom is of the future." - American Indian Proverb

... And Pay for it I did!

Well, Thursday afternoon and evening following the Erbitux IV were not bad at all, in spite of all the Rain, by which we were rewarded with a great Rainbow over the Iao Valley, as seen from Amanda's "backyard." Feeling a little tired, it was easy to go to sleep early, not long after the Little One's were tucked in. I'd stopped the Vicodin a couple days before, thinking it was a "good thing" and had only taken one half dose of the Oxycodone that morning, just to see what I might expect from it's effects - which seemed pretty nil. In hind site, BIG MISTAKE. I awoke for the first of a half dozen or so times at about 11:30pm, in a cold sweat, with a surprisingly dry mouth, a strong urge "to go" and an unexpectedly uncomfortable headache.



And so began what I presume could become a very unwelcome, though (especially now) not unexpected routine. I think the longest I went was just shy of one and a half hours (that'd be "every 1 1/2 hrs" in the "short version"...). The dry mouth and headache just kept getting worse. From the first awakening, I'd gotten my trusty ol' H2O bottle, and wound up going through about 6 refills. It must have helped some, but it sure didn't seem to at the time. And the headache... OMG! Guess it's part of the payback for having never really been bothered by the bane of brain bashing noggin knocker headaches, or even little ones very often. Guess I have a new understanding for those of you who suffer the occasional migraine - won't be making light of those any more...



So, enough of that... After getting up finally, and reporting my experiences, I went straight to the Oxycodone; and an hour later, I felt fine, but the Headache was still banging away trying to burst out through the top of my forehead. Would that I had my Peppermint Oil, but alas, it had inadvertently been left in Lahaina. Amanda suggested Children's Motrin (liquid, mild, pink...) and after a little bit of checking (I have soooo much info on all this, I think they've covered everything), we concluded that Motrin/Tylenol is "OK" - so, we (she) settled on a 20ml dose, and finally after another hour, I could actually tell it was working. I'd progressed to coffee, then grape juice along with another bottle or two or water, and the dry mouth seemed to be floating away as well. Oh Joy!

While I was feeling "crappy" and just lolling in front of the TV, Amanda managed to sort things out with the tentative plan of "Kelly fixing Dinner." It ultimately was decided that we'd all be going up to Anne's in Makawao. Well, I had a wild hair about needing to get back to Lahaina, to check on Mail, get some clothes (I'd originally thought I'd just be making a day trip to Amanda's and after leaving the night before to allow for the rain, and then spending another night, I definitely needed them), and to check on Marcia's (Seabern, a Dear Friend and my Landlady*) computer, as she'd called to check on me, and let me know it wasn't working...

Well, I actually made record time; Left Maui Lani at 1:45pm, drove to Lahaina, stopped by Emerald Plaza to pick up a ladder from Bear,* home, took a shower, packed a suit case, checked my mail, determined that Marcia's Monitor was maki and didn't have time to change it out, stopped for a tank of gas, and made it back to Amanda's at a little after 4:00pm, perhaps my personal best! We then all piled into Kyle's truck (Carl & Amanda had been out sun seeking, and the boyz had emptied the truck - marble slab rack & tools -) as Anne had requested Kyle do a dump run, to get rid of all the debris created by Carl's hard work around the house and headed up the hill. Turned out that nobody had told Anne that I was coming, and nobody had told me that Kelly who had worked all day wasn't cooking dinner. It can get confusing at times, but only if you try too hard to keep up...Typical for this Clan. No matter as everyone enjoyed B-B-Q steak, boiled potatoes, corn, broccoli, Cesar salad, garlic bread and 5 flavors of ice cream, thank you Anne & Amanda. And that was Friday.

Saturday was kind of a lazy day, a bit of shopping, Carl left at 2:00pm, returning to Las Vegas and his real life a day early, to ease the load on overloaded Wendy (He's the Good Son), and then Amanda insisting on putting up her (outdoor) Christmas lights, only to have it start pouring 5 minuets after she'd started... Hmmm, I might not of mentioned that along the way (we'll blame Kyle for this) we discovered FREE Slot Machines!!! Pretty entertaining, providing you DO NOT PLAY FOR MONEY - and that's all I'm saying about that! If it's not your thing, don't even bother to go there. And if you do, you're on your own, and blame Kyle, not me.

Sunday, Gary Hipp and Family came over for weekly "Church," and Bible study, while I opted for a trip to Ace for a few necessary essentials (stapel gun, pruning sheers, Oxyclean, light bulbs and a 1/4" dowel). We all enjoyed a good lunch of stuffed bell peppers, thank you Amanda. After, and with full stomachs and an empty schedule, everyone settled in for a brief Winter's nap... With any luck, and weather permitting Monday I'll be able to spend some time with Kelly and put up her Christmas lights, as I've been promising since before Thanksgiving... Tuesday and Wednesday I should be back in Lahaina, and then Thursday the real fun begins...

* In a future post I'll provide a run down of my very best Animal Friends of Lahaina (Bear, Thumper, Sparky et' al) for those of you who may not know them...

The Hurrier I go, the Behinder I get...

After a brief visit with the Kidz over Lunch at the Club, I stayed for Monday Night Football - well, the first half anyway. Then it was off to deliver a new Laptop I'd set-up for Friends Steve and Kathy Taylor, well, Kathy's actually. Tuesday was chores, bill paying and job hunting, all in all pretty boring, or so I thought, until I received an e-mail from Steve, alerting me to the fact that Kathy (who works for Paradise Television) had arranged for the filming of a TV commercial for TERALANI SAILING CHARTERS, and that they'd be going out on Tuesday and would I like to go along? Well, needless to say, I did, and it was a great time to say the least.

Wednesday evening we had some Kona weather moving into the Islands, which means wind, rain and high surf. Fortunately I decided to head over to Amanda's early Wednesday afternoon, knowing that I had to show up at Kaiser for a Stress Test at 8:00am, prior to the start of my Chemo and the Erbitux transfusion. Well, it was darned good that I did, as it was POURING all day Thursday.

OK, so the stress test wound up being pretty much that. Driving in the rain, in Pearl is stressful enough, I'd of never made it if I'd of had to drive from Lahaina. After meeting Steve the Tech, and Kathy the Nurse, they hooked me up to the 10 lead EKG machine, strapped on the BP cuff and explained that they'd do some ultrasound imaging of my heart before and again after my stint on the treadmill. The objective was to have me reach 60% of max heart rate. The tread mill starts out slowly, then every three minutes increases. While I can't recall the exact numbers right now, I'm quite pleased to report that not only did I reach the 60%, I actually got all the way up to 101% and survived. Following all that, they called in the Cardiologist, Dr. Gerry, who reviewed the results and said, "Well, you've got a pretty full plate here, but one thing you don't have to worry about, is your Heart!" Well that was good news.

After a brief trip back to Amanda's, Kyle returned from bidding a job, to watch Hailey, so Amanda could accompany me on the Chemo visit, which was a good thing. Before they started the IV I had a visit from Joni, the Pharmacist, who explained what all I might expect from the treatment. They do a very good job of making sure you are aware of everything, and know what to expect, no matter how much you may not want to hear it... And, I guess because of my size, they'd decided to give me an undiluted dose, 800 ml of the Erbitux, along with a hefty dose of Benedryl. Now, here's the shocker - the Erbitux cost is $8,000.00!!! OMG. I will not complain any more about my $15.00 co-pays for every single visit. Annette was the RN who hooked me up with the IV, and she did such a good job, I hardly even knew it was happening. And then, the high point of the day, the other Nurse there, Cheryl, came over with a huge can of Almond Rocca, and said, "Help yourself!" Be still my heart, I was in heaven. Or so I thought. Little did I know, that I'd be "paying" for it later...

The family. We were a strange little band of characters trudging through life sharing diseases and toothpaste, coveting one another's desserts, hiding shampoo, borrowing money, locking each other out of our rooms, inflicting pain and kissing to heal it in the same instant, loving, laughing, defending, and trying to figure out the common thread that bound us all together. ~Erma Bombeck

Surprise Visitors & some Med-Speak...

The unexpected just keeps happening around here... Monday afternoon I was surprised by a drop in visit from my wild & crazy Children, who seemed to manage a "get-away-day" and wound up at Slaughter House... for "old time sake." From L>R that's Son-In-Law #2, Kyle, Amanda, yours truly, Kelly and Carl. If I look puffed up an perhaps a bit PROUD - I am!

Now, for those of you who've been waiting patiently, I'm going to share the details of the Doctors findings, in their own terms... and PLEASE - "DAM" (Don't Ask Me), as I haven't a clue what all that means, and have no intention of finding out. Oh, and for the squeamish or if you just don't want to get this deep - it's OK to skip the next few paragraphs, I totally understand, and normally would be skipping it myself.

(This is the Pathology Report following the Right Neck Biopsy on 10-31-2008.)

MICROSCOPIC DESCRIPTION: The small biopsy fragments has nests of hyperchromatic cells with adjoining fibrous stromal reaction with limited lymphocytes. The tumor nests have focal necrosis and limited eosinophilic tumor cell cytoplasm with mitotic figures present. The neoplasm diffusely expresses AE1/AE3 cytokeratin and p63, with absence of mucin vacuoles on a DPAS stain consistent with poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma.

FINAL DIAGNOSIS: Right neck biopsy: Poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, consistent with metastasis. DIAGNOSIS COMMENT: While no distinct lymphoid background is identified, effacement of background lymph node architecture by metastatic carcinoma with associated fibrous reaction may be possible particularly as the biopsy tissue provides limited tissue sampling. The findings are consistent with the recent biopsy findings of invasive very squamous cell carcinoma involving the right tonsil. (Specimen # So8-20180)

(This is the Pathology Report following the Right Tonsillectomy on 11-14-2008.)

1. Right Tonsil: Poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma focally infiltrating skeletal muscle of tonsillar fossa.
2. Right medial tonsil fossa: No tumor identified.
3. Inferior right tonsillar process: No tumor identified.
4. Right lateral tonsillar process: No tumor identified.
5. Right base of tongue: No tumor identified.
6. Midline tongue base: No tumor identified.

Diagnosis Comment: Case reviewed in Pathology Staff Conference on 11/17/2008

Ron's Comment: All in all, that means removing the Tonsil should resolve the situation, and the Radiation/Chemo treatments are for the cell growth in the Lymph Nodes, and everything should be "peachy!"

"Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad." - Miles Kington

Plan "B"

A note about the photo... found this as Amanda's wallpaper when I showed up last Friday, and couldn't resist. They'd taken Tyler & Hailey out for a little fun, and the Kids loved the Merry-go-Round, which was (and still is) always one of my favorites. Ahhh, I remember those glory days in Griffith Park, Santa Monica Pier, and of course Disneyland.

OK - False alarm... Turns out I'm NOT starting Radiation Therapy today, oh, and my apologies for being slow in updating things here. Not really an excuse (truth is I've just been lazy), but this weekend was our annual Board of Governors elections at the Lahaina Yacht Club, and I had the dubious honor of heading the Elections Committee (thank you Amanda, Dan, Skeeter, Jeff & Chuck for the help). Alright, back to the treatment schedule changes...

Last Friday I met with Dr. Paul Coty, a Medical Oncologist (not the same as a Radiation Oncologist I've learned), who had the final say as to treatments. Well, the "short version" is, he's the guy that decides whether or not "additional" modalities (med-speak for treatment) were warranted, and he felt they were. Enter ERBITUX, and now I've crossed over into the dreaded CHEMO therapy arena, which I've since found out simply means "something" besides just Radiation. Please note... if you should research this further, don't wig out... as I'm assured it shouldn't be all that big a deal, in spite of a small percentage of cases which didn't turn out so well. Really.

I guess the ever present "good news" here is, what they're now prescribing is at the "minimalist" end of the spectrum, and while it does increase the side effects (read that pain & discomfort), it's not nearly as bad as numerous other options. Erbitux is an "accelerator" and increases the effects of the radiation. It's given by IV, which I have the first infusion this Thursday, and then once a week, every week until the Radiation treatments are completed. Turns out the significant side effect of this drug is I'll wind up with an extreme case of Acne, something I was never terribly bothered by as an adolescent, so it'll be something different. Again, more good news, I'll have a darned good reason to not have to be shaving! Yea, for that!

During the consultation, Dr. Coty explained he'd just spoken with a Dr. Scott Lippman, of the MD Anderson Clinic at the University of Texas. Turns out he's the Head of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology. So, as far as expertise, I don't see how I could be getting better care. My "team" keeps growing, and everyone on it seems to have checked with somebody more experienced before making their decisions. Ya gotta love Technology.

So, the current "Plan" is, I'll have Blood Tests every Wednesday, then the Erbitux IV's once a week, on Thursday mornings and the Radiation treatments every day starting Dec. 18th, continuing until probably around February 6th. Hold on, more "good news" - I get Christmas & New Years Days off... as their Office is closed! Hurray. On that note - Adios for today, I'm off to the Club, Monday Night Football ya know...

Oh shoot... Almost forgot to let you know, the latest on Classmate Carl Belknap is the Ticker's doing fine, but now they seem to have discovered he's got chronic sleep apnea (sp?) and is either looking at having to sleep with some apparatus or other, or having an operation. I think he's opting for the Op... so please give him a moment or two when you're thinking those healing thoughts. And stay tuned, I've got an important (at least it is for me) announcement I'll be sharing in a future post.

"The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing." — John Powell

If the "shoe" fits, wear it...

Or in this case, the Mask! With Amanda at my side, we showed up at the Clinic at 9:30am, and shortly thereafter were ushered into the Simulation Room, where we met Robert, the Radiology Tech who would be doing the Mask fitting and running through the Mapping routine. He very patiently explained what was going to take place, and did his best to make sure I'd be "comfortable," as if anything could really accomplish that.
Truth be told, it wasn't all that bad. Amanda loved that everything was so high-tech. Robert had told her she'd have to leave the room when they started doing the imaging, but she managed to win him over, and wound up staying through the whole thing. Asking questions and snapping pictures the whole time.




Robert (who would be assisted by another Tech, Tim) explained what he would be doing, which basically would be fitting a plaster impregnated mesh over my head, face and shoulders, and then a couple of simple trips through the scanner to "map" where they would be targeting the radiation. Amanda came along and not only peppered the Tech's and the Doctor with questions but took the photos included here.













All in all it wasn't too bad. The flouride trays were a new treat to say the least, but I figured that out and was able to breath without flipping out. I'd thought about holding Bonnie's Beads during the proceedure, but opted to leave them in my "travel kit" nearby, as my thinking at this point is having "nothing" to think about or do, is best for getting through this. So, I've settled on one personal mantra that I've discovered over the years does relax and "take me away," which I may share at some future point. Which I'll no doubt be getting a chance to test the "getting away" part very soon. I'm to report next Monday at 2:30pm, and we're off and running! YIKES!!!

And so, here we are with the finished product. "Voila!!" A mini-Me.

The whole process took about 30 minutes or so, and I just kind of faded into the zone, and went with it. Fortunately I'm not too claustrophobic and don't find it too difficult to just relax.

Also I had no idea that Amanda was as busy taking pictures as she was,

We celebrated this land mark ocassion by going out to lunch. First choice of Amanda's was Manana Cafe, but unfortunate they'd closed up shop just a few weeks ago, so we opted for Koho's as it was nearby.

Previously I'd mentioned that Son Carl was out from Vegas for a brief Holiday visit, and he and Son-in-law Kyle (Amand'as husband) had headed down to Makenna for a little sun & surf. As we were done early, and Tyler & Hailey were at pre-school/daycare, Amanda said she was off to meet the Boys for a little beach time of her own, without the responsibilities of Children, and did I want to go. I opted not too, as for the moment Mr. Sun and I are at odds.

On our way home we got to talking and (short version) the next thing I knew was we'd decided to get everyone together (this includes Kelly & Family and Momma Anne, along with Carl) that evening for a B-B-Q at Amanda's. So off she went, and I had an appointment with the Unemployment office, following which as I was headed back to Amanda's, received a phone call from my Mainland visiting Friend Marcus, who had seemed to have (at least for the moment) developed a need for a place to stay, and was wondering if he could "crash in Lahaina" which of course, he was welcome to stay. We met at Borders (yes, Men can read too...) and he followed me to Amanda's. We had a great get-to-gather, and with four Kids running about, there was no lack of entertainment, including a screening of "Hancock." (No, the little ones were curtailed with the option of "Scooby Doo & Batman" in Tyler's bedroom or running rampant out on the deck. Mom - we had Chicken, Porterhouse steaks, Teriaki beef, and Calbasa sausage on the Grill, B-B-Q Asparagas and Broccoli (thank you Anne), and rice. Kelly was the hit of the evening when she broke out and made the fresh baked chocolate chip cookies. YEAH Kelly!

And that Dear Readers, brings us to the end of another day.

“Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.” Green's Law of Debate

Brain Fade and Gatorade...

OK - so I'd first like to admit to being a bit overwhelmed and overloaded by all this, and things are happening too fast, and too varied for me to get it all in the right perspective. And yes, those of you who know me well will simply say, "So, what's new?" Fair enough, but I will also add that between stopping smoking, and having replaced my alcohol intake with Gatorade and Peppermint tea, my whole system is responding by accelerated electrolyte exchange evolution. In other words, there will be gaps and omissions. This is an effort to catch up a bit.

First, if not necessarily most important, I'm remiss for not acknowledging Mickey Mouse's Birthday last November 18th (coincidentally the release date, 11/18/1928 of Steamboat Willie). As an avid ALL THINGS DISNEY fan, this was an unforgivable oversight, but, life goes on, and so must I. Lest I miss an equally if not more important date, Friday, December 5th is Walt Disney's Birthday. Walt is one of my greatest personal Hero's. Sharing this day as her own, is an old High School Friend's Daughter, Amy Agajanian - Happy B-day Amy!

"If you can dream it, you can do it. Always remember that this whole thing was started with a dream and a mouse." Walt Disney

Now, to some THANK YOU's I'd like to acknowledge, the first being to those who may not get mentioned by name, or publicly recognized, just know, your thoughts and contributions have not gone unnoticed, unappreciated or unwanted. Next I want to thank another High School Buddy, Rick Ortenburger for his "Blogger" tip, on how to manipulate Dates and Time (would that it would be so easy in real life) - thanks Rick, it's so easy a Cave Man could have figured it out.

Next, my "Illini" Friend, Emilie Barry has sent me an Asparagus treatment recommendation (which she received from a highly respected Friend of hers - George Frye) which seems to be fairly substantiated. First reported in the 'The Elements of Materia Medica', edited in 1854 by a Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, stated that asparagus was used as a popular remedy for kidney stones. He even referred to experiments, in 1739, on the power of asparagus in dissolving stones. Dr. Richard R. Vensal, D.D.S. reported in the Cancer News Journal, December 1979 that asparagus might cure cancer. You take a can of Asparagus (Fresh is fine, but "cooking" increases potency of the relevant components, so canned works just fine in this case), put it in a blender, then take 4 tablespoons twice a day. Make a note here ya'll... it makes for a good preventative tonic as well. Ya'll eat your Greens!

On Monday I had a visit with my Dentist, Dwight Mounts, whose Office Manager Jeanine was kind enough to accommodate me on short notice, to have a set of Flouride Trays made, as the Radiation Oncologist had suggested they would be beneficial in minimizing stray rays from traumatizing teeth and gums. Following the fitting I had a couple hours before they would be ready, and I'd accepted an invitation from Bonnie Nelson, to visit her Garden in Puamana as she had something to share with me. Turns out she bestowed on me a set of Prayer Beads with quite a history. Strung by children in Africa and brought back by a Minister Friend who'd given them to Bonnie, she in turn had occasion several years ago, to pass them on to a neighbor who coincidentally was diagnosed with Tonsil Cancer. Well, he was successfully cured, and when Bonnie heard of my plight, she contacted him and asked if he'd be willing to give them up, which he was.

Now she's passed them on to me. Only thing about them though is, they didn't come with instructions. Seems like there's more than one school of thought on the subject, as I've already heard differing opinions as to their use! Seems like I've something new to delve into and learn about. Thank you Bonnie, I'll be sharing what I find in a future wandering. In the mean time, I appreciate having them, and will be glad for any benefit the offer.

And speaking of prayers... I'm going to have to come up with one of my own... I'm thinking something like this: Dear Heavenly Father. Thank you for your many blessings and your infinite wisdom and compassion. I know you've had a recent influx of prayers, far more than the normal load you experience. I apologize for being the cause of this, and ask your tolerance for the good intentions of my Family and Friends, and their Family and Friends. I realize that I may not be all that deserving, and that you certainly have many more pressing issues in these difficult times, but all these Folks mean well. Regardless of the outcome, of which I'm encouraged already, I have committed myself to being worthy. I feel your Strength and Love, every day and in every way, and theirs as well. Well God, YOU have a Great Day, and THANK YOU LORD, Amen.

"We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give." Sir Winston Churchill

Dry me a River...

It seems like awaking with a dry mouth is something that's going to be a constant. For whatever reason, earlier this morning it got me again. Funny thing was, the first thought that popped into my head was the line from an old Julie London song (originally written for Ella Fitzgerald), "Cry me a River...," and I just figured I was feeling sorry for myself. But you know, that wasn't really so. Then realized it was really "Dry me..." and I had to just chuckle. Life is good, and darned entertaining if you let it.

It's hard to believe how much has happened in the short few days since Thanksgiving, not even a week ago yet. First of all, I personally had a GREAT Thanksgiving day, spending it with my Family and many long time Friends.

Located on the slopes of Haleakala, the Ulapalaku Ranch has a fantastic view overlooking Kooholawe and Molokini, it was a wonderful place for the Holiday. Oh, and our "surprise" guest turned out to be my Son Carl, turns out Momma Anne flew him out to visit his Sister's. Lest you worry about the rest of the Family... Carl's Wife Wendy and eldest Son Cody drove up to Wyoming to be with her Parents, Brittany and Chase each had plans with friends of theirs, so all wound up having a good time.

My Folks were treated to a visit at Aunt Elaine's down in Anaheim, and Dad was surrounded by Women, as four of their Nieces were there as well. Mom gave a favorable report, and I won't begin to go into the Menu in this narrative. I fulfilled my house sitting requirements, barely averting an invasion of marauding neighborhood skateboarders who couldn't resist the recently poured cement spillway at the entrance to the property. Saturday was Bar tending School, this week was Coffee Drinks. Sunday was a party at a Friends in Kahana and I even managed to win the first half Pool for $100.00!! I owe it all to clean living. 8~) The real treat though was on the drive home.

My Friend Emilie Barry has been sending along encouraging words (as oh so many of you have) and recently encouraged me to be on the lookout, just after sunset for Jupiter, Venus and the New Moon. It's been a bit overcast and we've had some rain too, so it's been overcast in the evening. Well, Sunday was a BEAUTIFUL DAY, and so it was crystal clear as I was driving home about 7:30pm. For those of you who don't know, Kahana is North of Lahaina. As I was approaching Lahaina, I could see, just South and a bit above Lanai the two Planets and Moon. And oh my Gosh! They formed an almost perfect triangle, two eyes and a crescent shaped grin. Doggone if it didn't seem like GOD himself was smiling down on me. A nice big happy grin. I simply haven't the words, but just think of it, low in the South Western sky, Venus & Jupiter two twinkling eyes, and a big Cheshire Cat smile, with the trail of light reflecting off the Ocean, leading right to my doorstep. To say the least, I was moved.

Yesterday and today were a bit mundane, with chores and getting rid of my overwhelming "archives." Tomorrow I get my "mask" fitting and Treatment Simulation in the morning, and will report on same then. Thanks to all for the overwhelming support your sharing, it's humbling.

"Keep your mind off the things you don't want by keeping it on the things you do want." W. Clement Stone