November 2018


At the beginning of November I met with Dr. Pitz and was thrilled to hear that there had been no change in the size of my remaining brain tumour. We had a conversation about adjusting the drugs to minimize side effects. In the past, my chemo drugs and study drugs affected my blood work which meant I was taken off all medications for an extended period of time. I now have been taken off of my chemo drugs (which I typically take every six weeks), and have stayed on my liquid study drugs   (which I take every day for two weeks then have one week off). To stay healthy I have continued to take my daily Kepra pills (for my seizures - I haven't had a seizure since March), and my daily stomach needle which helps keep my blood thin (a few times I had to stop my needles for a short period of time as my blood was much too thin). At the end of my last doctor’s meeting I asked if I could get my driver’s license. The clear answer I got from my doctor was “No!” There was no conversation. We both smiled at each other which ended our meeting.

This past month I have really enjoyed spending time with my two amazing grandchildren – Finn and Molly. I also enjoyed spending time with my mom and dad. Earlier in the month my family had a meeting with hospital staff. We talked about plans moving forward. We now are looking at some possible nursing homes that may be best for dad. At the end of the month I was thrilled to find out that we could take my dad home for two hours. My sister Bev was his driver. When my mom and dad met they gave each other a big hug and a kiss. I have to admit that brought tears to my eyes. They love each other so much. We had a great time eating dinner together and chatting. The time seemed to go by so fast. After being home for two hours Bev drove dad back to the hospital. In addition to spending time with my grandchildren and my family, I am so grateful for the many friends I have gone out with. I thank God every day for how good I feel and for all the family and friends that I can stay in touch with.  Life is good!
 
 We brought dad home from the hospital on a Sunday afternoon.
He could stay for two hours. We were very excited to have him home.
 
 Playing with Finn prior to his sister being born.
 
 In this photo Molly is one week old.
 
Bill and his great-granddaughter Molly. 
 
 Me and my beautiful granddaughter.
 
My sister Bev gave both me and my mom a ride to the
hospital to attend a meeting with hospital staff. 
 
 After our 9:00 a.m. hospital meeting my family went out for breakfast.
 
 I had breakfast with my friend Hugh. He used to be a trustee
for the Louis Riel School Division.
 
 I had breakfast with Mark, a former trustee in the ISD.
 
I had breakfast with Deb. She helps organize Grands 'n' More.
Every year our two grandmother groups get together for dinner. 
 
 It was wonderful having lunch with my friend Roza -
superintendent from the Evergreen School Division.
 
Bev and I started Christmas shopping at the end of November.

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