Dear All,
Apologies about the delay between blog entries. No excuses apart from me being slack!
Based on my recent consultations, I am planning this entry to be my last at least for the time being. My last consultation (Monday 15th November) with Dr Nutting confirmed that the tumour was completely gone and that the two offending lymph nodes (which presented when the cancer was first diagnosed) had resumed normal activities. The result of the recent CT scan confirmed that no further treatment was required - all good and very welcome news.
There was a 20% chance I would need to have the two lymph nodes removed (supposedly a fairly straighforward surgical procedure - not sure there is such a thing!), however, thankfully the scan showed no abnormal activities and I was allowed to remain intact.
The recovery process continues, albeit slowly, with energy levels returning. My weight is still 10kgs below where I would like it to be, although it has been stable for a couple of months. I am planning to do something I have never done before which is to join a gym and to try and put on some weight in the right places (tough when you are over 50!). Time will tell if I get the desired results.
I still have some pesky ulcers in my mouth plus tingling toes and hands (result of the platinum in the chemo). All should return to normal in due course. No problems sleeping or eating most foods which is good. My taste buds are non existent although my sense of smell is normal. It can take up to 18 months (85% of people who have had similar treatment to me recover full saliva plus taste buds within 18 months) for taste and saliva to return to normal. I am involved in a saliva study at the hospital and even though they couldn't extract any from me on the 15th November, my parotid gland was actually producing some saliva which they were impressed with. I am hoping normal service resumes in the next few months. One bonus will be to be able to drink wine and to have a decent curry which I am unable to at present. I am able to drink the occassional guiness for some reason.
The day before my most recent consultation, I woke up with a very swollen neck which freaked Lucy and I as we automatically thought the cancer had returned. Thankfully, as I was standing in front of Lucy, the swelling in my neck literally drained away. Dr Nutting explained that radiotherapy constricts the lymph vessels which can cause fluid to accumulate and there was nothing to worry about - phew! It is comforting to note that what you are experiencing is all part of the process.
With Christmas looming into view at a frightening rate, life is busying up. We are disappearing to Chamonix for Christmas which will be a welcome break. Not sure how much skiing my body will be able to cope with, however, the plan is also to go to a few spas/thermal pools to help the recovery process. With life speeding up all the time, I am committed to increasing the amount of 'slow' time opportunities to enjoy with friends and family. This is especially important as Poppy our eldest daughter heads off to Uni next year.
I hope you all have a wonderful festive season and get to spend quality time with your loved ones, family and friends.
It just remains for me to say a huge thank you to all of you for the suport you have given me, Lucy and the girls throughout my illness. We could not have got through this period without the generous support of you all. We look forward to thanking you in person (including everyone residing outside the UK) over the coming months and years.
God bless you all.
With love and thanks.
Stephen, Lucy, Poppy, Ruby and Ella.
Monday, 29 November 2010
Thursday, 14 October 2010
8 weeks post treatment
G'day All,
Lucy and I went to see the consultant (Dr Nutting) on Wednesday 13th October for my two month review. After examining my mouth/tongue and then putting a camera down my throat (via my nose), Dr Nutting confirmed that my tongue had healed and that there was no sign of the tumour, praise the Lord!!!!!! Lucy and I shed tears of relief and joy.
I have to say I was not expecting to hear such definitive news at the consultation as it is still relative soon after treatment. It certainly made me feel better as I am suffering from some bug which has knocked me back the last week.
The next stage is for a scan of my neck (November 4th) to make sure that the nodes in my neck (which Dr Nutting expects to be fine) are not displaying cancerous tendencies. If they are, it is apparently a relatively straightforward procedure to have them whipped out. I am hoping and praying that I remain intact!
I will continue to have monthly check ups for the next few years and then more irregular check ups for the next three years. It is not easy to escape cancer as I am finding out.
A huge thank you to everyone who has prayed and supported Lucy, the girls and myself during this time. Please continue to pray for ongoing healing and peace. I don't know how we would have coped without the support network. It makes you realise how blessed we are. I pray for those people who have to face such ordeals on their own.
I would like to finish this entry with an excerpt from a book by Max Lucado titled 'In the eye of the storm'.
'Worship is when you are aware that what you have been given is far greater than what you can give. Worship is the thank you that refuses to be silenced. '
After yesterday, worship has definitely taken on new meaning to me.
God bless.
Stephen
Lucy and I went to see the consultant (Dr Nutting) on Wednesday 13th October for my two month review. After examining my mouth/tongue and then putting a camera down my throat (via my nose), Dr Nutting confirmed that my tongue had healed and that there was no sign of the tumour, praise the Lord!!!!!! Lucy and I shed tears of relief and joy.
I have to say I was not expecting to hear such definitive news at the consultation as it is still relative soon after treatment. It certainly made me feel better as I am suffering from some bug which has knocked me back the last week.
The next stage is for a scan of my neck (November 4th) to make sure that the nodes in my neck (which Dr Nutting expects to be fine) are not displaying cancerous tendencies. If they are, it is apparently a relatively straightforward procedure to have them whipped out. I am hoping and praying that I remain intact!
I will continue to have monthly check ups for the next few years and then more irregular check ups for the next three years. It is not easy to escape cancer as I am finding out.
A huge thank you to everyone who has prayed and supported Lucy, the girls and myself during this time. Please continue to pray for ongoing healing and peace. I don't know how we would have coped without the support network. It makes you realise how blessed we are. I pray for those people who have to face such ordeals on their own.
I would like to finish this entry with an excerpt from a book by Max Lucado titled 'In the eye of the storm'.
'Worship is when you are aware that what you have been given is far greater than what you can give. Worship is the thank you that refuses to be silenced. '
After yesterday, worship has definitely taken on new meaning to me.
God bless.
Stephen
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
Almost 6 weeks since Treatment Finished
Dear All,
Please forgive me for not updating my blog for 5 weeks. I have no idea where the time has gone.
The good news is that my strength, energy and concentration levels, together with my ability to speak without dribbling like a madman and without pain are all steadily improving. My diet is still mostly liquid, however, with the ulcers in my mouth retreating like the glaciers, I am moving to less liquid fare e.g. tonight's shepherd's pie which Lucy has been slaving over a hot stove to cook (under my supervision of course which has been driving her crazy).
Daily walks with the mutt/wolf are giving me some exercise albeit limited. I am keen to move onto more productive exercise when energy levels allow - hopefully in the next few weeks. This should also enable me to put back on the weight I have lost as a result of the treatment - circa 8 Kgs. My weight has stabilised (this impressed the docs for some reason at my last visit) and is gradually improving which is not a mean feat via a liquid diet.
In respect to the medical stuff, my next trip to the docs on 12th October (monthly visits now) should show how the tumour on my tongue has responded to the chemo and radio treatment. They did say that two months affter treatment is still early and they may not be able to obtain a definitive view due to the the area being still inflamed. They are planning to do a scan after three months (mid November) which should then give a clear assessment of the state of my tongue. Prayers much appreciated and needed going forward. So a very interesting month and a half ahead.
On the home front, the school year is in full swing with the girls at various stages in their secondary education. Poppy is in her final year and in the process of applying to various Universities to study Chemistry. Ruby is doing her GCSE's and is applying to various schools to do sixth form. Ella is busy in year 8. Lucy is busy looking after me and the girla which I have to say is more than full time!
Subject to my health/energy levels etc. I am planning to return to work at some point in October. I am very fortunate that a lot of my work can be done via the internet which means being able to work from home. Work have been great and continue to be very supportive.
Due to the ulcers in my mouth recovering, I have been able to catch up with friends and have had some much appreciated visits. Anyone wanting to visit is more than welcome.
That brings things more or less up to date. I will endeavour to update the blog sooner next time.
Stephen
Please forgive me for not updating my blog for 5 weeks. I have no idea where the time has gone.
The good news is that my strength, energy and concentration levels, together with my ability to speak without dribbling like a madman and without pain are all steadily improving. My diet is still mostly liquid, however, with the ulcers in my mouth retreating like the glaciers, I am moving to less liquid fare e.g. tonight's shepherd's pie which Lucy has been slaving over a hot stove to cook (under my supervision of course which has been driving her crazy).
Daily walks with the mutt/wolf are giving me some exercise albeit limited. I am keen to move onto more productive exercise when energy levels allow - hopefully in the next few weeks. This should also enable me to put back on the weight I have lost as a result of the treatment - circa 8 Kgs. My weight has stabilised (this impressed the docs for some reason at my last visit) and is gradually improving which is not a mean feat via a liquid diet.
In respect to the medical stuff, my next trip to the docs on 12th October (monthly visits now) should show how the tumour on my tongue has responded to the chemo and radio treatment. They did say that two months affter treatment is still early and they may not be able to obtain a definitive view due to the the area being still inflamed. They are planning to do a scan after three months (mid November) which should then give a clear assessment of the state of my tongue. Prayers much appreciated and needed going forward. So a very interesting month and a half ahead.
On the home front, the school year is in full swing with the girls at various stages in their secondary education. Poppy is in her final year and in the process of applying to various Universities to study Chemistry. Ruby is doing her GCSE's and is applying to various schools to do sixth form. Ella is busy in year 8. Lucy is busy looking after me and the girla which I have to say is more than full time!
Subject to my health/energy levels etc. I am planning to return to work at some point in October. I am very fortunate that a lot of my work can be done via the internet which means being able to work from home. Work have been great and continue to be very supportive.
Due to the ulcers in my mouth recovering, I have been able to catch up with friends and have had some much appreciated visits. Anyone wanting to visit is more than welcome.
That brings things more or less up to date. I will endeavour to update the blog sooner next time.
Stephen
Friday, 20 August 2010
Treatment Day 86
Greetings All from a warm and muggy Orchard Cottage.
Finally made it home after completing my Radiotherapy treatment (30 sessions over six weeks)on Wednesday 18th August. The last week had been pretty tough with my tongue ulcers and very sore throat making eating, sleeping, swalllowing and more or less everything else difficult. I have lost about 10KGs in the process so far, athough thanks to some stalwart cooking by Lucy and now sister Pippa who arrived from the US on Sunday, my weight has stabilised and I am now beginning the rebuilding process.
The fact that I am not being either poisoned or zapped on a daily basis had got to be good news for my body which, for a 50 something is holding together reasonably well. The skin on my neck has reacted to the RT by going bright red and blistering in a few places (normal apparently). Thankfully it is on the mend already following no more RT.
The big question of whether the treatment has kicked my cancer into touch cannot be answered unfortunately for a few months until my neck and throat area really settle down. I have little doubt that the tumour has been booted into kingdom come and thank you to everyone who continue to pray for just this result.
Being home makes such a difference to the healing process as I have said previously. Thanks to the generosity of Chris and Michaela, we were able to experience the next best thing (being in someone else's home!) over the last week and a half at 15 Caroline Terrace. Being 10 minutes from the hospital made daily treatment a breeze and the girls had a good taste of London living (and yep they want some more!). A huge thank you again.
So, I have no excuses but to get back to full strength in record time with two resident chefs (at least for the next week) and a team of masseurs and E45 applicators. I have to say I have never felt so weak and lacking in energy before which has come as a bit of a shock. It means the recovery process is likely to be longer than I would like but hey ho, one day at a time is a good pace to go with at the moment.
I hope everyone in the Northern Hemisphere is having a fab summer (UK August has been awful - June July were warm and very dry) and that everyone in the Southern Hemisphere is getting some good turns in at every opportunity.
Love and best wishes to you all.
God bless.
Stephen
Finally made it home after completing my Radiotherapy treatment (30 sessions over six weeks)on Wednesday 18th August. The last week had been pretty tough with my tongue ulcers and very sore throat making eating, sleeping, swalllowing and more or less everything else difficult. I have lost about 10KGs in the process so far, athough thanks to some stalwart cooking by Lucy and now sister Pippa who arrived from the US on Sunday, my weight has stabilised and I am now beginning the rebuilding process.
The fact that I am not being either poisoned or zapped on a daily basis had got to be good news for my body which, for a 50 something is holding together reasonably well. The skin on my neck has reacted to the RT by going bright red and blistering in a few places (normal apparently). Thankfully it is on the mend already following no more RT.
The big question of whether the treatment has kicked my cancer into touch cannot be answered unfortunately for a few months until my neck and throat area really settle down. I have little doubt that the tumour has been booted into kingdom come and thank you to everyone who continue to pray for just this result.
Being home makes such a difference to the healing process as I have said previously. Thanks to the generosity of Chris and Michaela, we were able to experience the next best thing (being in someone else's home!) over the last week and a half at 15 Caroline Terrace. Being 10 minutes from the hospital made daily treatment a breeze and the girls had a good taste of London living (and yep they want some more!). A huge thank you again.
So, I have no excuses but to get back to full strength in record time with two resident chefs (at least for the next week) and a team of masseurs and E45 applicators. I have to say I have never felt so weak and lacking in energy before which has come as a bit of a shock. It means the recovery process is likely to be longer than I would like but hey ho, one day at a time is a good pace to go with at the moment.
I hope everyone in the Northern Hemisphere is having a fab summer (UK August has been awful - June July were warm and very dry) and that everyone in the Southern Hemisphere is getting some good turns in at every opportunity.
Love and best wishes to you all.
God bless.
Stephen
Wednesday, 28 July 2010
Treatment Day 63
G'day all from the Riverside Apartments in Wandsworth/Putney. With many thanks to Pam, we are staying at a fabulous apartment on the river about 3 miles from the Royal Marsden which makes the daily trips to RM very much easier than the daily commute from Silverstone. We will be here until Friday 6th August.
The last three weeks of Radiotherapy are having their effect. My neck is bright red. My energy levels are very low. The hair on the back of my head/neck region is falling out and my mouth and throat are very sore, all apparently par for the course. Eating is becoming challenging as my taste buds and appetite are non existent.
I have now completed half the Radiotherapy treatments - 15 to go! I also have one more round of chemo to go - 5th August, overnight.
The doctors seem happy enough with my progress. They can't, however, say whether the treatment is working or not so all prayers are welcome. It will not be until Christmas before they can confirm that the tumour/cancer has been kicked into touch. In the meantime, I am focusing on completing the treatment and recovering.
Lucy and the girls are enjoying the start of their London summer. Ella linked in with her Children Youth Board crowd on Tuesday in Whitehall, meeting three new ministers, while Ruby and Lucy braved Oxford Street. Poppy arrives home from Tanzania on Saturday and will come to London with us next week. Poppy has had a ball getting involved in various soil conservation projects as well as helping to paint a local hospital and also helping out at a local school. We are very much looking forward to seeing her and hearing about her adventures.
Thanks again to everyone assisting us in Silverstone and in London and for all your prayers - much appreciated.
All the best,
Stephen
The last three weeks of Radiotherapy are having their effect. My neck is bright red. My energy levels are very low. The hair on the back of my head/neck region is falling out and my mouth and throat are very sore, all apparently par for the course. Eating is becoming challenging as my taste buds and appetite are non existent.
I have now completed half the Radiotherapy treatments - 15 to go! I also have one more round of chemo to go - 5th August, overnight.
The doctors seem happy enough with my progress. They can't, however, say whether the treatment is working or not so all prayers are welcome. It will not be until Christmas before they can confirm that the tumour/cancer has been kicked into touch. In the meantime, I am focusing on completing the treatment and recovering.
Lucy and the girls are enjoying the start of their London summer. Ella linked in with her Children Youth Board crowd on Tuesday in Whitehall, meeting three new ministers, while Ruby and Lucy braved Oxford Street. Poppy arrives home from Tanzania on Saturday and will come to London with us next week. Poppy has had a ball getting involved in various soil conservation projects as well as helping to paint a local hospital and also helping out at a local school. We are very much looking forward to seeing her and hearing about her adventures.
Thanks again to everyone assisting us in Silverstone and in London and for all your prayers - much appreciated.
All the best,
Stephen
Thursday, 8 July 2010
Treatment Day 42
Greetings all from the Benjamin Britten room (no. 8) in the Markus Centre at the Royal Marsden on a very warm Thursday evening. Unfortunately the rooms do not have airconditioning - hey you can't have everything! I am just thankful that I have my own room for my second to last round of chemo - yippee!
The week on the Gower Peninsular was fab. The excellent weather enabled us to go swimming without wetsuits (including Ruby which is amazing in itself) late in the evening with loads of frisbeeing and cricket on the beach. We also went on lots of walks which went some way to burning off the huge amount of calories we were consuming. Ruby and Ella grew about an inch in height and I managed to put on 3 or 4 kilos - all good. We slipped into a brunch zone which was hard to break. This was always followed up by some serious arvo teas and then a full on evening meal.
By Thursday 1st of May when the weather changed we all felt like we had had a great holiday and were ready to return. We arrived home about 9:00 pm to find Bonzer and Raisin well and the house in good shape. A huge thank you to Amanda Aitchison for looking after Bonzer and Raisin and the house. We could not have gone away without Amanda's help.
The Gower Peninsular for anyone who has not been is well worth a visit as it is a special place. Fantastic beaches, varied countryside, moorland and excellent walks in a relatively small, easily accessable space. My favourite beaches were; Caswell Bay, Three Cliffs and Rhossili Bay (justifiably voted one of, if not the, best beach in the UK). My only tip would be to go outside summer school hoildays and bank holidays as the roads and parking for beaches can be a nightmare being so close to Swansea. The only other time we have been to the Gower was a hot May bank holiday and the place was heaving. We had a great week as it was in term time. The roads and beaches were deserted.
I now know why people are sent to convalesce by the sea. My recovery was certainly aided by being close to the sea. Air and water are both vital to our existence. I felt completely revitalised after a couple of days of being on the beach. Lucy commented that I had recovered faster this time than after the first round of chemo. Our view from the apartment helped as it felt you were right on the water at all times.
I have never seen so many stand up paddle boarders before. Lucy was so fascinated by them (they looked like Avatars in the distance) that she even wanted to have a go. Unfortunately we couldn't arrange it during our stay but we will definitely have a go next time. They are a fast and good way to travel (you don't get wet when you are good) in waters with small swells. Certainly worth a try.
We arrived home to see preparations for Silverbury 2010 in full swing. The construction team had put a huge amount of time and effort in during the week resulting in an incredible stage (see link below for photos). Everyone involved had been busy behind the scenes (apart from us!) making sure the event would go off without a hitch.
Friday dawned another glorius day and the final preparations were made. Gazebos and tents were erected. The stage was finished, complete with it's own pyramid to match the main pyramid stage at Glastonbury. A beautiful backdrop of a dove for the stage was put up courtesy of Nikki Chamberlain. Caravans were installed. Electric cabling was hooked up (no mean feet due to the length of run) and lights were mounted. Beer arrived and was tapped. The garage theatre was set up complete with satellite TV. The scene was set under one of the most incredible sunsets I have ever witnessed. All positive signs that Saturday would be a special day.
http://s631.photobucket.com/home/industrial_resolution/allalbums
Special it was indeed!!!! Everyone entered into the 'festival' spirit, even those people who did not camp got into the spirit praise the lord! Over 400 people attended the event with nearly half that number camping overnight. The weather was fab as were the musicians/bands who played from 2:00 pm until midnight (for free I might add - top job Phil Chamberlain on sorting the music out).
All ages attended and I have to say I have never been at a festival or an event with a better atmosphere, that includes Glastonbury. What made it so special was that everyone got into the spirit that was obviously there in abundance. The spirit was a combination of; love, peace (most of the time apart from the sax player at 2:00 am!), joy, kindness, generousness, gentleness, goodness, patience (waiting for the pig roast!) and self control (apart from the silhouette dancers!). I had to actually give the last of the beer away at the end of the night and we were still left with 10 litres of proper Somerset scrumpy - anyone having a party soon?
It was a real team effort with Silverstone talent (across all areas including; master builders, designers, tee-shirt makers, craft workers, pig roasters, electricians, artists, musicians, techies and the list goes on!) together with a few related helpers rising admirably to the challenge. Just goes to show what can be done when the spirit is willing and leading.
The festival service on Sunday morning (the good weather continued) was well attended by all ages and denominations. It was a great opportunity to offer thanks to God that the festival had gone so well (beyond everyone's expectations including mine) without any incident or problem. It was a truly memorable weekend.
Everyone has just about recovered! I went for a final cat scan on Tuesday before my radiotherapy treatment started today (Thursday 8th July). The scan showed the tumour had reduced in size considerably - praise the lord! The treatment is obviously working. I have also started taking Cherry Active (a concentrated anti oxidant) plus Resveratrol (immune system booster) which I am sure are also both helping. I feel excellent and am experiencing no symptoms apart from a little tiredness - I blame that on Silverbury!
The first of 30 radiotherapy sessions went off without a hitch today. I have been told to expect tougher times in the weeks ahead. I have full confidence in the team of doctors and nurses looking after me. I intend to take each day at a time and to stay as active and as positive as possible.
So that is about it for today. Silverstone is gearing up for the Grand Prix on the weekend - should be a fun weekend.
Bye for now and God bless.
Stephen
The week on the Gower Peninsular was fab. The excellent weather enabled us to go swimming without wetsuits (including Ruby which is amazing in itself) late in the evening with loads of frisbeeing and cricket on the beach. We also went on lots of walks which went some way to burning off the huge amount of calories we were consuming. Ruby and Ella grew about an inch in height and I managed to put on 3 or 4 kilos - all good. We slipped into a brunch zone which was hard to break. This was always followed up by some serious arvo teas and then a full on evening meal.
By Thursday 1st of May when the weather changed we all felt like we had had a great holiday and were ready to return. We arrived home about 9:00 pm to find Bonzer and Raisin well and the house in good shape. A huge thank you to Amanda Aitchison for looking after Bonzer and Raisin and the house. We could not have gone away without Amanda's help.
The Gower Peninsular for anyone who has not been is well worth a visit as it is a special place. Fantastic beaches, varied countryside, moorland and excellent walks in a relatively small, easily accessable space. My favourite beaches were; Caswell Bay, Three Cliffs and Rhossili Bay (justifiably voted one of, if not the, best beach in the UK). My only tip would be to go outside summer school hoildays and bank holidays as the roads and parking for beaches can be a nightmare being so close to Swansea. The only other time we have been to the Gower was a hot May bank holiday and the place was heaving. We had a great week as it was in term time. The roads and beaches were deserted.
I now know why people are sent to convalesce by the sea. My recovery was certainly aided by being close to the sea. Air and water are both vital to our existence. I felt completely revitalised after a couple of days of being on the beach. Lucy commented that I had recovered faster this time than after the first round of chemo. Our view from the apartment helped as it felt you were right on the water at all times.
I have never seen so many stand up paddle boarders before. Lucy was so fascinated by them (they looked like Avatars in the distance) that she even wanted to have a go. Unfortunately we couldn't arrange it during our stay but we will definitely have a go next time. They are a fast and good way to travel (you don't get wet when you are good) in waters with small swells. Certainly worth a try.
We arrived home to see preparations for Silverbury 2010 in full swing. The construction team had put a huge amount of time and effort in during the week resulting in an incredible stage (see link below for photos). Everyone involved had been busy behind the scenes (apart from us!) making sure the event would go off without a hitch.
Friday dawned another glorius day and the final preparations were made. Gazebos and tents were erected. The stage was finished, complete with it's own pyramid to match the main pyramid stage at Glastonbury. A beautiful backdrop of a dove for the stage was put up courtesy of Nikki Chamberlain. Caravans were installed. Electric cabling was hooked up (no mean feet due to the length of run) and lights were mounted. Beer arrived and was tapped. The garage theatre was set up complete with satellite TV. The scene was set under one of the most incredible sunsets I have ever witnessed. All positive signs that Saturday would be a special day.
http://s631.photobucket.com/home/industrial_resolution/allalbums
Special it was indeed!!!! Everyone entered into the 'festival' spirit, even those people who did not camp got into the spirit praise the lord! Over 400 people attended the event with nearly half that number camping overnight. The weather was fab as were the musicians/bands who played from 2:00 pm until midnight (for free I might add - top job Phil Chamberlain on sorting the music out).
All ages attended and I have to say I have never been at a festival or an event with a better atmosphere, that includes Glastonbury. What made it so special was that everyone got into the spirit that was obviously there in abundance. The spirit was a combination of; love, peace (most of the time apart from the sax player at 2:00 am!), joy, kindness, generousness, gentleness, goodness, patience (waiting for the pig roast!) and self control (apart from the silhouette dancers!). I had to actually give the last of the beer away at the end of the night and we were still left with 10 litres of proper Somerset scrumpy - anyone having a party soon?
It was a real team effort with Silverstone talent (across all areas including; master builders, designers, tee-shirt makers, craft workers, pig roasters, electricians, artists, musicians, techies and the list goes on!) together with a few related helpers rising admirably to the challenge. Just goes to show what can be done when the spirit is willing and leading.
The festival service on Sunday morning (the good weather continued) was well attended by all ages and denominations. It was a great opportunity to offer thanks to God that the festival had gone so well (beyond everyone's expectations including mine) without any incident or problem. It was a truly memorable weekend.
Everyone has just about recovered! I went for a final cat scan on Tuesday before my radiotherapy treatment started today (Thursday 8th July). The scan showed the tumour had reduced in size considerably - praise the lord! The treatment is obviously working. I have also started taking Cherry Active (a concentrated anti oxidant) plus Resveratrol (immune system booster) which I am sure are also both helping. I feel excellent and am experiencing no symptoms apart from a little tiredness - I blame that on Silverbury!
The first of 30 radiotherapy sessions went off without a hitch today. I have been told to expect tougher times in the weeks ahead. I have full confidence in the team of doctors and nurses looking after me. I intend to take each day at a time and to stay as active and as positive as possible.
So that is about it for today. Silverstone is gearing up for the Grand Prix on the weekend - should be a fun weekend.
Bye for now and God bless.
Stephen
Sunday, 27 June 2010
Treatment Day 31
Hi All,
Greetings from a fantastic beach on the Gower Pensinsula - Caswell Bay - photos will follow in due course. Temperature is pushing 30 degrees C (as it was 18 years ago at Orchard Cottage in Silverstone at Lucy's and my wedding!!!) with a light breeze and a small swell running to keep the swimmers/bodyboarders/skiffle boarders/paddle boarders etc interested. Our apartment overlooks the beach and the waves send us to sleep at night - location couldn't be better.
We had a beautiful coastal path walk to neighbouring Langlands Bay for brunch this morning at a very nice contemporary brasserie (thank the good lord that someone has sorted some decent seaside catering out -not that prevalent in this country). Spotted two seals close in on the way back. Lucy and I are returning there this evening for fresh local lobster on the terrace (can't say that often in wales!!!) to celebrate our 18th wedding anniversary. Kids are getting left over some lovely shepherds pie for dinner (thank you by the way whoever made it!).
My recovery from last chemo session (left hospital on Tuesday) is continuing - am now at about 80%. No need for anti sickness medication and my energy levels are improving.
Am going to need to be at full strength for Silverbury 2010 next weekend as the event is gathering momentum. Anyone reading the blog wishing to attend Silverbury 2010 please contact Lucy or myself asap as names need to be put on the guest list. It should be fab.
Just a short note today as the beach is calling .....
All the best.
Stephen
Greetings from a fantastic beach on the Gower Pensinsula - Caswell Bay - photos will follow in due course. Temperature is pushing 30 degrees C (as it was 18 years ago at Orchard Cottage in Silverstone at Lucy's and my wedding!!!) with a light breeze and a small swell running to keep the swimmers/bodyboarders/skiffle boarders/paddle boarders etc interested. Our apartment overlooks the beach and the waves send us to sleep at night - location couldn't be better.
We had a beautiful coastal path walk to neighbouring Langlands Bay for brunch this morning at a very nice contemporary brasserie (thank the good lord that someone has sorted some decent seaside catering out -not that prevalent in this country). Spotted two seals close in on the way back. Lucy and I are returning there this evening for fresh local lobster on the terrace (can't say that often in wales!!!) to celebrate our 18th wedding anniversary. Kids are getting left over some lovely shepherds pie for dinner (thank you by the way whoever made it!).
My recovery from last chemo session (left hospital on Tuesday) is continuing - am now at about 80%. No need for anti sickness medication and my energy levels are improving.
Am going to need to be at full strength for Silverbury 2010 next weekend as the event is gathering momentum. Anyone reading the blog wishing to attend Silverbury 2010 please contact Lucy or myself asap as names need to be put on the guest list. It should be fab.
Just a short note today as the beach is calling .....
All the best.
Stephen
Friday, 18 June 2010
Treatment Day 22
G'day All,
The second round of chemo at the Royal Marsden kicked off on schedule yesterday. I only have 86 hours of drugs to go - not that I am counting mind you! Thankfully I have managed to secure a private room for the time being (am waiting for the fateful knock at the door) which is making the process more bearable and much better for visitors.
Suzi and Nick Usiskin popped in last night which was great and Lucy is able to spend a lot more time with me this time thanks to the generosity of Chris and Michaela Hancock letting Lucy stay close by in their fab London home.
Also big thanks to Lucy's help rota which is working like a treat sorting out the girls while we are in London for 6 days. As I write Poppy is being whisked to Milton Keynes by Mark Tyson to get her jabs for her upcoming Tanzania trip - thanks Mark!
Silverbury is gaining momentum day by day and looks like being an amazing event. My only concern is sourcing two kegs of real ale and a keg of cider as you can't have a festival without decent beer and cider. The picture below was taken at Glastonbury a few years ago with my trusty portable BBQ. I am hoping to replicate something similar on the 3th & the 4th July.
Recovering from the first round of chemo has gone better than I hoped. The two nodes in my neck have shrunk to normal size plus the tumor on my tongue has also reduced in size as I am no longer getting any apple pith stuck when I swallow - all good signs that the chemo is doing what it is supposed to do.
After 3 days or so I started jogging and exercising again building back up to where I was before the treatment started. My shoulder injury is nearly healed although I still have one or two trips to make to the physio. Poppy joined me on a few runs which was good. She saw there is still some life in the old boy yet!
I have been also getting some invaluable advice on diet/nutrition from a number of sources which I have been putting into use to get me in as good a shape for the trials ahead. Thanks to everyone's input on this - please keep the advice coming.
I am hoping, subject to how the Radiotherapy goes in the first week to catch a day at the Aus V Pakistan first Test at Lords. Still can't understand why the Aussies are playing so much cricket over here in English conditions with the Ashes around the corner downunder where conditions will be very different. No complaints if it gives me a chance to see them.
Love to all,
Stephen
Friday, 4 June 2010
Day 8 Treatment
Hi All,
The sun is shining on dear old Blighty and the world is good. Returned home from Royal Marsden on Wednesday 2nd June. Jimi's hospital/chemo induced purple haze is slowly and thankfully receding (how did people survive the 60's?). Slowly returning to normal sleeping patterns/routines which were all shot to pieces in hospital. Managed to mow the lawn yesterday and go for a lovely walk with the wolf (Bonza) this morning.
He managed to drag (with Lucy's assistance it has to be said) a huge log back to the car on a walk when I was in hospital. The log is installed in the garden and I expect to send photograhic evidence of his amazing sculpting skills in the next few weeks (I reckon it is going to be a squirrel Bob). He is mad as a hatter!
The weather is helping the recovery process a lot. Best of the summer yet with mid to high 20's expected to continue for the next week. I have to say, England in the summer sunshine is hard to beat especially as the sunsets are after 9:00 pm which means you get to enjoy the good weather (when it happens) and BBQ for longer! I also forgot to mention, no need for Aeroguard!!!!!! May even stroll down to the 'Silverstone Beach' later (our neighbour's Sue and Paul's affectionately known pool).
Home is definitely where the heart is and I can honestly say I have never appreciated my family and home more than this week. Lucy and the girls have been rocks. I now have nurse Ella-Rose attending to my every need - temperature twice a day and logged.
If anything, the house was too clean on my return. Chemo apparently heightens the sense of smell and any smells assoicated with chemo can stay with you a long time. Overriding smell of hospital was bleach/cleaning fluids (can't be a bad thing in hospital I suppose!) so any smell of cleaning fluid sends me straight back to hospital -not good. Another good reason to retain the classic Mills 'lived in' look. The nurse and her sisters are currently doing a great job at returning order to Orchard Cottage. One of the hospital nurses suggested Lucy not wear perfume throughout my treatment as it can be a link back in the future. I will have to suffer eau de Lucy for the next few months - could think of a lot worse things!
In respect to side effects so far, nothing major to report - list below;
The sun is shining on dear old Blighty and the world is good. Returned home from Royal Marsden on Wednesday 2nd June. Jimi's hospital/chemo induced purple haze is slowly and thankfully receding (how did people survive the 60's?). Slowly returning to normal sleeping patterns/routines which were all shot to pieces in hospital. Managed to mow the lawn yesterday and go for a lovely walk with the wolf (Bonza) this morning.
He managed to drag (with Lucy's assistance it has to be said) a huge log back to the car on a walk when I was in hospital. The log is installed in the garden and I expect to send photograhic evidence of his amazing sculpting skills in the next few weeks (I reckon it is going to be a squirrel Bob). He is mad as a hatter!
The weather is helping the recovery process a lot. Best of the summer yet with mid to high 20's expected to continue for the next week. I have to say, England in the summer sunshine is hard to beat especially as the sunsets are after 9:00 pm which means you get to enjoy the good weather (when it happens) and BBQ for longer! I also forgot to mention, no need for Aeroguard!!!!!! May even stroll down to the 'Silverstone Beach' later (our neighbour's Sue and Paul's affectionately known pool).
Home is definitely where the heart is and I can honestly say I have never appreciated my family and home more than this week. Lucy and the girls have been rocks. I now have nurse Ella-Rose attending to my every need - temperature twice a day and logged.
If anything, the house was too clean on my return. Chemo apparently heightens the sense of smell and any smells assoicated with chemo can stay with you a long time. Overriding smell of hospital was bleach/cleaning fluids (can't be a bad thing in hospital I suppose!) so any smell of cleaning fluid sends me straight back to hospital -not good. Another good reason to retain the classic Mills 'lived in' look. The nurse and her sisters are currently doing a great job at returning order to Orchard Cottage. One of the hospital nurses suggested Lucy not wear perfume throughout my treatment as it can be a link back in the future. I will have to suffer eau de Lucy for the next few months - could think of a lot worse things!
In respect to side effects so far, nothing major to report - list below;
- No loss of hair or change of colour or straightening yet - taking on a Lord of the Rings theme, the kids reckon I would give Gandalf a run for his money as Stephen the white - time will tell.
- Soft skin. Apparently my skin has taken on a baby's bum quality. I couldn't possibly comment.
- Mettallic taste. Nothing that a mint or two can't solve.
- Occasional nausea. Getting less due to drugs working through the system. kept in check with anti nausea pills.
- Tiredness which comes in waves, although reducing.
The plan is for me to return to the Marsden on 17th June for another 5 night , subject to a bed being available. Am hoping for good weather as there is a small garden where I intend to spend most of my time.
Three weeks from the start of the next chemo session (circa Monday 12th July) I kick off 6 weeks of Radiotherapy. We still need to coordinate our accomodation in London and hope to do this in the next week or so. Many thanks again to everyone who has been so generous in offering places to stay. In particular, a big thank you to; Chris & Michaela, Nigel & Julie, Henry and Sarah and Julian (times two).
Also the home guard needs a special mention as their efforts have ensured that nurse Ella-Rose and her sisters plus Lucy have been fed and watered in grand style. Thanks (in no particular order) to; Sarah, Sara, Elizabeth, Penny, Anne, Amanda, Caroline and Rachel. Just to let you know, Elizabeth's lasagne has scooped the prize for creativity with a picture of me (in tomato sauce) on top. Setting a tough bench mark indeed.
We are very much looking forward to catching up with my sister Pip who is coming to London mid August to lend a hand.
Time to get into the sun. Take care all and enjoy the first Aussie Grand Slam winner (she is amazing) on Saturday for a very long time.
Stephen
Sunday, 30 May 2010
Day 4 Chemo Treatment Round 1
G'day All,
19 hours and 54 minutes of round 1 to go - not that I am counting! All things being equal, I should be on my way home by 10:am on Tuesday 1st June.
The following link always blows me away, I hope it inspires you like it does me. Mike Parsons rode this monster in the first ever tow in competition in Hawaii. What the clip doesn't show is that he nearly died in the previous wave. The other finalist had just rode his last wave (of 3) which was the biggest wave of the day (before this monster) and had posted a 9 1/2 (I think) score. MP had one more wave and he needed to score a perfect 10 to win....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18_38LHTeDG
If for some reason the link does not work, type Billabong Odyssey (great film by the way) into google and the youtube link will come up.
I managed to do my first video Skype call with my sister Pip and hubby Dan in NY yesterday even though the built in mic on my laptop meant I had to have my face pressed against the screen. Very impressive nonetheless. I will sort out a proper microphone when I get home. Please let me know if you are on Skype and we can hook up.
Tea lady is thankfully on her way - very well trained staff!
The next blog will be from home. That sounds good to me.
Stephen
19 hours and 54 minutes of round 1 to go - not that I am counting! All things being equal, I should be on my way home by 10:am on Tuesday 1st June.
The following link always blows me away, I hope it inspires you like it does me. Mike Parsons rode this monster in the first ever tow in competition in Hawaii. What the clip doesn't show is that he nearly died in the previous wave. The other finalist had just rode his last wave (of 3) which was the biggest wave of the day (before this monster) and had posted a 9 1/2 (I think) score. MP had one more wave and he needed to score a perfect 10 to win....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18_38LHTeDG
If for some reason the link does not work, type Billabong Odyssey (great film by the way) into google and the youtube link will come up.
I managed to do my first video Skype call with my sister Pip and hubby Dan in NY yesterday even though the built in mic on my laptop meant I had to have my face pressed against the screen. Very impressive nonetheless. I will sort out a proper microphone when I get home. Please let me know if you are on Skype and we can hook up.
Tea lady is thankfully on her way - very well trained staff!
The next blog will be from home. That sounds good to me.
Stephen
Friday, 28 May 2010
Day 2 Treatment
Hi All,
Just a short update following my admission yesterday.
I had an excellent first night, managing to get some good sleep (no change there) inspite of the various chemo pack changes. Also managed to open a window behind my bed to get some fresh cool air - why are hospitals so hot? No side effects to report from the chemo (have had doses of both drugs being used in my treatment) thankfully - I think my hair is still there!
I forgot to mention that a bonus of the delay on Thursday in being admitted was that I was able to take part in a healing prayer session with some friends in Silverstone. The session left me feeling cleansed and even more at peace. Many thanks to Allan, Ruth, Ben and Olya (my late Mum's middle name by the way).
I want to share two scriptures that have given me (and are continuing to give me) huge comfort and strength.
Isaiah 46:4 - This was the first thing I read after being diagnosed.
Even to your old age and grey hairs I am he,
Who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
Isaiah 43:2 - This passage has particular relevance to the chemo (rivers/water) and the radiotherapy (fire) I will be undergoing.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And when you pass through the rivers,
They will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire ,
You will not be burned;
The flames will not set you abalze.
Time to start the Babylon 5 odysey!
Thanks again to you all.
Stephen
Just a short update following my admission yesterday.
I had an excellent first night, managing to get some good sleep (no change there) inspite of the various chemo pack changes. Also managed to open a window behind my bed to get some fresh cool air - why are hospitals so hot? No side effects to report from the chemo (have had doses of both drugs being used in my treatment) thankfully - I think my hair is still there!
I forgot to mention that a bonus of the delay on Thursday in being admitted was that I was able to take part in a healing prayer session with some friends in Silverstone. The session left me feeling cleansed and even more at peace. Many thanks to Allan, Ruth, Ben and Olya (my late Mum's middle name by the way).
I want to share two scriptures that have given me (and are continuing to give me) huge comfort and strength.
Isaiah 46:4 - This was the first thing I read after being diagnosed.
Even to your old age and grey hairs I am he,
Who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
Isaiah 43:2 - This passage has particular relevance to the chemo (rivers/water) and the radiotherapy (fire) I will be undergoing.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And when you pass through the rivers,
They will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire ,
You will not be burned;
The flames will not set you abalze.
Time to start the Babylon 5 odysey!
Thanks again to you all.
Stephen
Day 24 Post Diagnosis, Day 1 of Treatment
G'day All,
I am now installed at the Royal Marsden (Wilson Ward for the time being) and am about to start treatment in the next hour or so.
It has been a busy week! Two teeth (wisdom plus next one along on the bottom right) pulled on Tuesday at the Royal Marsden plus a kidney test (scored 110 whatever that means! Apparently 55 is not good) which went well. Taking my teeth out was a preventative step as the jaw does not respond well following radiotherapy. I have to say the extractions (like everything so far) went better than I could have hoped. My top jaw will not be affected.
I was supposed to be admitted for treatment on Thursday, however, due to an influx of patients and a lack of beds, I was sent home and asked to come in today. I was initially offered my own room with en suite on Thursday (Lucy and I both were more than surprised), only to have it requested back 20 minutes later due to the influx of female patients (women causing problems yet again!). Thankfully, life returned to normal on Friday as I was installed in a six person ward! I look forward to making some new friends.
Lucy and I have found a fabulous Turkish cafe next to the hospital on Fulham Rd which we have been lunching at. Great organic salads and houmous etc.. and home baked bread. Fresh juices and excellent cofffee. All visitors note, visit the cafe en route and surprise me! An Americano with a bit of hot milk on top plus a fresh carrot juice will do just fine.
Many thanks to everyone who has sent/bought/dropped off comedy DVDs, my collection is now very impressive. I promise all DVDs will be returned after my treatment and after the girls have no doubt passed their critical eyes over them. This could be a few months!
Just like owners look like their dogs or vice versa, people' s choices of comedy DVDs and CD's (thanks by the way Julian and David for the Steven Wright CD's - they are brilliant in the car, very surreal just like this whole process) offer interesting insights into character. I think I need to have some serious conversations with one or two of you when I get out of here!
I have also added some classics to the Mills library. These include; Kath & Kim Series 1 and 2 (still outrageous), Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights (pure brilliance), Marion & Geoff (bizare) and the complete (I mean complete, Bob) box set of Babylon 5 (every series, film, pilot episode and related shows). It will probably take me 6 months of concentrated viewing to get through the contents of the box set alone!
I can unfortunately confirm that hospital food is the same over the world. I wonder if that cafe is open 24 hours and whether they do ward deliveries?
Time to get fired up for the first round of chemo.
Love and best wishes to all.
Stephen XXXX
PS: Food parcels gratefully received!
I am now installed at the Royal Marsden (Wilson Ward for the time being) and am about to start treatment in the next hour or so.
It has been a busy week! Two teeth (wisdom plus next one along on the bottom right) pulled on Tuesday at the Royal Marsden plus a kidney test (scored 110 whatever that means! Apparently 55 is not good) which went well. Taking my teeth out was a preventative step as the jaw does not respond well following radiotherapy. I have to say the extractions (like everything so far) went better than I could have hoped. My top jaw will not be affected.
I was supposed to be admitted for treatment on Thursday, however, due to an influx of patients and a lack of beds, I was sent home and asked to come in today. I was initially offered my own room with en suite on Thursday (Lucy and I both were more than surprised), only to have it requested back 20 minutes later due to the influx of female patients (women causing problems yet again!). Thankfully, life returned to normal on Friday as I was installed in a six person ward! I look forward to making some new friends.
Lucy and I have found a fabulous Turkish cafe next to the hospital on Fulham Rd which we have been lunching at. Great organic salads and houmous etc.. and home baked bread. Fresh juices and excellent cofffee. All visitors note, visit the cafe en route and surprise me! An Americano with a bit of hot milk on top plus a fresh carrot juice will do just fine.
Many thanks to everyone who has sent/bought/dropped off comedy DVDs, my collection is now very impressive. I promise all DVDs will be returned after my treatment and after the girls have no doubt passed their critical eyes over them. This could be a few months!
Just like owners look like their dogs or vice versa, people' s choices of comedy DVDs and CD's (thanks by the way Julian and David for the Steven Wright CD's - they are brilliant in the car, very surreal just like this whole process) offer interesting insights into character. I think I need to have some serious conversations with one or two of you when I get out of here!
I have also added some classics to the Mills library. These include; Kath & Kim Series 1 and 2 (still outrageous), Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights (pure brilliance), Marion & Geoff (bizare) and the complete (I mean complete, Bob) box set of Babylon 5 (every series, film, pilot episode and related shows). It will probably take me 6 months of concentrated viewing to get through the contents of the box set alone!
I can unfortunately confirm that hospital food is the same over the world. I wonder if that cafe is open 24 hours and whether they do ward deliveries?
Time to get fired up for the first round of chemo.
Love and best wishes to all.
Stephen XXXX
PS: Food parcels gratefully received!
Wednesday, 19 May 2010
Day 15 Post Diagnosis
Dear All,
It has been a busy week. Started off recovering from a fantastic final 50th birthday bash put on for me by my work colleagues - still am flabergasted at the generosity and preparations that went into the evening - I am not worthy! Location started and finished at a penthouse suite at the Swiss Hotel overlooking the Thames (best view in London). In between we dined at the RAC Club in the Minstrels Gallery which was sublime. Not sure what time we finally hit the sack, however, breakfast on the terrace in the sunshine started the recovery process.
Pre chemo session at Northampton Hospital on Monday 17th May was pretty straightforward. The most memorable moment was when the nurse said that iI may lose some of my hair during chemotherapy. Apparently my hair could grow back not only a different colour but also straight - that could be very interesting! The plan was to go for 2 cycles of 3 week chemotherapy (two drugs used Cisplatin and 5-FU) and then 6 weeks of radiotherapy and chemo (Cisplatin only). All lined up to start Friday 28th May, subject to the second opinion at the Royal Marsden on Wednesday 19th May. PEG was to be inserted on 25th May.
Royal Marsden - Lucy and I went to the consultation praying for; clarity, guidance and confidence from the Doctors we had been referred to (Peter Clarke - ENT surgeon and Chris Nutting - oncologist chemo/rad specialist). Thankfully we received all of the above in abundance. This, combined with the work Chris Nutting has been doing over the last 10 years in the area of advanced radiotherapy and chemo, convinced Lucy and I that this was the right place to be. The Royal Mardsen uses IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy) whereas Northampton Hospital does not currently have this technology/capability - it is on the way. It is still a fairly brutal process, however, there is a better chance of coming out the other side with most functions intact.
The treatment will be as follows;
It has been a busy week. Started off recovering from a fantastic final 50th birthday bash put on for me by my work colleagues - still am flabergasted at the generosity and preparations that went into the evening - I am not worthy! Location started and finished at a penthouse suite at the Swiss Hotel overlooking the Thames (best view in London). In between we dined at the RAC Club in the Minstrels Gallery which was sublime. Not sure what time we finally hit the sack, however, breakfast on the terrace in the sunshine started the recovery process.
Pre chemo session at Northampton Hospital on Monday 17th May was pretty straightforward. The most memorable moment was when the nurse said that iI may lose some of my hair during chemotherapy. Apparently my hair could grow back not only a different colour but also straight - that could be very interesting! The plan was to go for 2 cycles of 3 week chemotherapy (two drugs used Cisplatin and 5-FU) and then 6 weeks of radiotherapy and chemo (Cisplatin only). All lined up to start Friday 28th May, subject to the second opinion at the Royal Marsden on Wednesday 19th May. PEG was to be inserted on 25th May.
Royal Marsden - Lucy and I went to the consultation praying for; clarity, guidance and confidence from the Doctors we had been referred to (Peter Clarke - ENT surgeon and Chris Nutting - oncologist chemo/rad specialist). Thankfully we received all of the above in abundance. This, combined with the work Chris Nutting has been doing over the last 10 years in the area of advanced radiotherapy and chemo, convinced Lucy and I that this was the right place to be. The Royal Mardsen uses IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy) whereas Northampton Hospital does not currently have this technology/capability - it is on the way. It is still a fairly brutal process, however, there is a better chance of coming out the other side with most functions intact.
The treatment will be as follows;
- 2 three week cycles of chemo (same as above) commencing on Thursday 27th May. No PEG required initially. They will wait to see how I cope with eating/drinking.
- 6 weeks of radiotherapy combined with chemo (instead of chemo delivered one day a week, it will be delivered over 2 days twice in the 6 week period).
Getting to and from London is going to be a pain (2 hours plus by car in peak hour) but we feel 100% confident with the medical team headed by Chris Nutting. We have already had some amazing offers of assistance from friends and family in London so hopefully the logistics will be sorted.
Thanks again to you all for your generous offers of support (physical and spiritual). They are all much appreciated.
Stephen
Wednesday, 12 May 2010
Day 9 Post Diagnosis
G'day all.
Things are starting to move along. Confirmation of my appointment at the Royal Marsden came through today - scheduled for 19th May @ 10:00 am. Am praying that the treatment recommended concurs with the treatment that has already been discussed at Northampton General and can be delivered at Northampton General which will make it easier for all concerned.
Pre Chemo assessment goes ahead on 17th May at Northampton General. I have an appointment at Northampton General on Tuesday 25th May to have a PEG (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy) inserted in my stomach (enables me to be fed if I am unable to swallow later in the treatment cycle). I will be staying overnight so prayers would be appreciated that the procedure is free of infection and goes without a hitch.
All things being well, my treatment is likely to start either in the last week of May or in the first week of June.
I have been working as normal (had the usual two days in the office on Monday and Tuesday this week) and will continue to do so. I have also begun to exercise again which has felt great. My ankle ligament has healed enough to allow me to jog. My shoulder is on the mend as well, albeit slowly. I did my ankle after the filming was done in the link below (I am in the red jacket), thankfully much further down the valley. It was worth it!
http://vimeo.com/10889972
I am determined to stay as positive and upbeat as I possibly can throughout my treatment and recovery. One way I am going to achieve this is to laugh a lot. To help me do this, I am assembling a library of comedy DVDs. Any contributions would be greatfully accepted. To give an idea of the kind of comedy I like, Kath & Kim, Peter Kay Phoenix Nights hit the spot. The Office and other cringe making comedies leave me cold, apart from Borat of course!
The support I have been receiving continues to be overwhelming on all fronts, many thanks again to you all.
Stephen
Things are starting to move along. Confirmation of my appointment at the Royal Marsden came through today - scheduled for 19th May @ 10:00 am. Am praying that the treatment recommended concurs with the treatment that has already been discussed at Northampton General and can be delivered at Northampton General which will make it easier for all concerned.
Pre Chemo assessment goes ahead on 17th May at Northampton General. I have an appointment at Northampton General on Tuesday 25th May to have a PEG (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy) inserted in my stomach (enables me to be fed if I am unable to swallow later in the treatment cycle). I will be staying overnight so prayers would be appreciated that the procedure is free of infection and goes without a hitch.
All things being well, my treatment is likely to start either in the last week of May or in the first week of June.
I have been working as normal (had the usual two days in the office on Monday and Tuesday this week) and will continue to do so. I have also begun to exercise again which has felt great. My ankle ligament has healed enough to allow me to jog. My shoulder is on the mend as well, albeit slowly. I did my ankle after the filming was done in the link below (I am in the red jacket), thankfully much further down the valley. It was worth it!
http://vimeo.com/10889972
I am determined to stay as positive and upbeat as I possibly can throughout my treatment and recovery. One way I am going to achieve this is to laugh a lot. To help me do this, I am assembling a library of comedy DVDs. Any contributions would be greatfully accepted. To give an idea of the kind of comedy I like, Kath & Kim, Peter Kay Phoenix Nights hit the spot. The Office and other cringe making comedies leave me cold, apart from Borat of course!
The support I have been receiving continues to be overwhelming on all fronts, many thanks again to you all.
Stephen
Saturday, 8 May 2010
Saturday 8th May - 5 Days post diagnosis
Not a great deal of news to update.
I am currently waiting to hear about an appointment for a second opinion to confirm treatment protocols at the Royal Marsden (specialist cancer hospital in London). The ENT consultant (Peter Clarke) plus chemo-radio specialist (Chris Nutting) at the Royal Marsden are widely recognised in head/neck/throat cancers. I am hoping the second opinion will confirm which treatment option/schedule suits my particular cancer.
I have a pre chemo assessment scheduled at Northampton Hospital (Talbot Butler Ward) for the 17th May.
For the time being, I am in good form and am eating and sleeping well. Poppy and I are going to go for a run tomorrow which will be the first for sometime due to my skiing injuries (dodgy shoulder and ankle) which are thankfully on the mend.
Thanks to everyone for the huge amount of love, support, well wishes and prayers being directed towards me Lucy and the girls - all much appreciated and felt.
Stephen
Thursday, 6 May 2010
Day 3 Post Diagnosis
This is the first entry on my blog. The aim of the blog is to provide an update/log of my cancer treatment to friends and family. It should hopefully save me having to repeat the same information which is both very boring and tiring.
The official diagnosis of my cancer is Squamous Cell Carcinoma. The tumor (only one at this stage) is about the size of a walnut (3-4 centimetres) and is located at the base/back of my tongue. Two lymph nodes in my neck (right side only) are inflamed/swollen although not showing obvious signs of cancer at this stage. Apparently with this type of tumor, the lymph nodes do become cancerous.
The treatment (chemo plus radiotherapy) is curative in nature and aims to kill the cancer. The doctors have said there is a 50/50 chance of success.
I am currently waiting to hear about a date for a second opinion (from Royal Marsden). Am hoping treatment protocols will then be agreed to commence treatment in circa 3 weeks.
Still quite surreal as I am not suffering any effects from the tumor. No problem eating or sleeping although I have lost some weight which I hear is a common symptom.
Everyone has been amazing (includes the doctors, nurses etc. plus friends and family) which has been a huge help dealing with the initial shock. We are going to need all the support of friends and family to get through this, however, I am 100% confident that the final outcome will be positive and that I will be given a clean bill of health at the end of treatment. I have it on the highest authority that this is going to be the case.
I am feeling very upbeat about the tough road ahead and am at peace with the whole situation. To experience the incredible outpouring of love and support from everyone has been a very humbling experience - thank you all again.
All prayers and positive thoughts are welcome. Please contact either Ruth Tyson (01327 857065, r.tyson@arkdesigns.co.uk) or Ruth Chesney (01327 857735 ruthchesney@hotmail.co.uk) if you would like to join the prayer chain.
Stephen
The official diagnosis of my cancer is Squamous Cell Carcinoma. The tumor (only one at this stage) is about the size of a walnut (3-4 centimetres) and is located at the base/back of my tongue. Two lymph nodes in my neck (right side only) are inflamed/swollen although not showing obvious signs of cancer at this stage. Apparently with this type of tumor, the lymph nodes do become cancerous.
The treatment (chemo plus radiotherapy) is curative in nature and aims to kill the cancer. The doctors have said there is a 50/50 chance of success.
I am currently waiting to hear about a date for a second opinion (from Royal Marsden). Am hoping treatment protocols will then be agreed to commence treatment in circa 3 weeks.
Still quite surreal as I am not suffering any effects from the tumor. No problem eating or sleeping although I have lost some weight which I hear is a common symptom.
Everyone has been amazing (includes the doctors, nurses etc. plus friends and family) which has been a huge help dealing with the initial shock. We are going to need all the support of friends and family to get through this, however, I am 100% confident that the final outcome will be positive and that I will be given a clean bill of health at the end of treatment. I have it on the highest authority that this is going to be the case.
I am feeling very upbeat about the tough road ahead and am at peace with the whole situation. To experience the incredible outpouring of love and support from everyone has been a very humbling experience - thank you all again.
All prayers and positive thoughts are welcome. Please contact either Ruth Tyson (01327 857065, r.tyson@arkdesigns.co.uk) or Ruth Chesney (01327 857735 ruthchesney@hotmail.co.uk) if you would like to join the prayer chain.
Stephen
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
