History

Wednesday, August 3, 2005 10:59 AM CDT

Hi Everyone:

I hope you are all enjoying these lazy days of summer. We've been spending time w/ family and friends - it's what summer is all about. Of course summer always goes by so fast - is it really August already?

It's been a while since my last update so I just wanted to let you know what's been going on. Bart's still on the thal-dex chemo and doing really well on it w/ no serious side effects - some swelling and numbness, pretty typical. The most recent blood results show "normal" readings which is encouraging. We visit our hematology oncologist next week for more routine blood work and most likely another bone marrow biopsy which we are hopeful will show the same results - no detectable cancer.

We received exciting (well "exciting" for lack of a better word) news last week from the transplant department at Dana Farber. Bart has been "matched" so he'll be going in for an allogeneic stem cell transplant in October. An 8-day stay is routine w/ a longer recovery period at home this time.

It is my limited understanding that the stay is shortened since there will be no high dose chemo this time. Therefore, Bart should not be as sick during his hospital stay. Last time Bart's immune system was completely shut down. This time it will only be 50 percent since in theory the donor's immune system w/ those yummy, healthy stem cells will come in and take over fighting the disease.

I'm just amazed at the capabilities and advances in the medical world. How is it that a bag of stem cells from a total stranger has the potential to lengthen a person's lease on life? Does it get any better than that? Please consider being a stem cell/bone marrow donor. The initial test is a rountine blood test that takes 3 tablespoons of blood for screening.

It is my hope that you are able to spend some quality time w/ your family and friends this summer. As our oncologist told us last month "you are on quality time now...so use it." We are doing our best to follow doctor's orders.

This rollercoaster ride over the past year has really taught me how I want to live my life. We all want to carry out our lives as honest, caring, thoughtful, good people. It's all pretty simple but I find in our hectic daily lives we sometimes lose touch with the simple pleasures of our lives. I'm not saying I'm doing a good job or it's easy or I'm accomplishing what I set out to, but at least now I am even more consciencious of the choices I make and my actions. Give the kids an extra hug, use your blinker ALL the time, email/call someone you know you've let a little too much time go between corresponding, let someone's car cut in front of you in traffic (for all you locals how about trying this out on Needham Street), and my personal favorite - smile for no particular reason. Isn't is ridiculously simple? Try it, I always feel better, maybe you will too.

We continue to receive such a great show of support in words and actions. Thank you so much for all your prayers and encouraging words - it means so much to us. Oh, and if I see you on Needham Street, I'll be sure to let you cut! Does it get any better than that?

Enjoy the rest of your summer!!!

FROM ALL THE WARNERS WHO ARE LIVING STRONG,
Beth

Thursday, June 9, 2005 1:49 PM CDT

Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to give a quick update. Bart has now been on the thal-dex chemo treatment for about 1 month. The latest test results have shown that the new treatment is working so we are "cautiously optimistic" that blood levels will soon be returning to normal. We now know that the next step will be an allogeneic stem cell transplant. This basically means that a suitable donor must be matched to Bart so that he can undergo the next transplant. The timetable is up in the air right now but it appears since he is responding to treatment the docs would like to get him in sooner rather than later (whatever sooner means we're not too sure). We'll find out more next week when we have our next appointment.

We do know that the hospital stay will be shorter and the recovery will be longer. So we're looking at "The Return of Bubble Boy." Sequels are never as good but we're hoping to change that!

Thanks for all the support and helping us to
LIVE STRONG,
Beth

Thursday, May 19, 2005 10:01 AM CDT

Hi Everyone:

We're baaaack. The bell has rung, we've got our gloves on and we're coming out for Round 2. The news last Thursday that Bart's cancer has returned was certainly a blow that I didn't see coming. We knew it was a possibility at any time, but the news caught me off guard.

The good news is that the bone scan/skeletal survey shows no new lesions/tumors and no damage to liver and kidneys. Bart's already started his new chemo treatment which is a combo of thalidomide and dexamethasone which is the standard treatment for multiple myeloma. Both are in pill form so thankfully no more infusion chemo. We understand that thalidomide has a good track record for destroying the myeloma cancer cells. The dexamethasone is a steroid that could make Bart look puffy, let's not confuse this w/ "pouffy." The "pouffy" has now been replaced by the No. 2 buzz up at Anthony's - we'll deal w/ the puffy.

So that's the story. I ask that you please keep Bart in your prayers and know how much support and strength you provide me through your friendship.

Hugs, phone calls, walks are all being accepted!!!

Thanks for caring and we're going to
LIVE STRONG,
Beth

Wednesday, March 23, 2005 8:02 PM CST

Hi Everyone - I saw the neurosurgeon, had the 100 day post transplant tests and received good news.

The neurosurgeon said I had enough bone regrowth that I would not need to have fusion done but because the bone is newer and softer I should avoid receiving any sharp blows to the head. Good advice for anyone, you think?

All of the 100 day test results were normal so I do not plan to undergo the second stem cell transplant at this time. I am officially discharged from the bone marrow transplant unit and will return to my oncologist next month. I will receive Zomeda, a bone hardening medicine, by infusion once a month and will have my blood tested at the same time to determine if the cancer is returning.

This will be my last entry in the journal which I believe will shut down if no entries are made in the next two (2) months.

I have returned to work pretty much full time. I have a lot more energy but find I'm pretty tired by the end of the week. I'm sure that sounds familiar to everyone.

I'd like to thank everyone for everything you've all done over the last eight months or so, the meals, cards, journal entries, calls, prayers, flowers, visits . . . Please believe me when I say that it all meant a lot to me and my family.

Take care and live strongly! Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin and Brian

Thursday, February 24, 2005 6:24 PM CST

Hi Everyone - I just wanted to take the time to thank everyone again for all of your support over these past months.

I tolerated the stem cell replacement very well and I'm back to work pretty much full time now. I'm also getting out a lot and enjoying watching the kids' various games on the weekends. It's a little strange not coaching any of the kid's teams but I find its great being able to watch them play without having to think about instructing them at the same time.

I'm trying to do more physically - but not overdo it -which is a little difficult but I seem to be able to do more every week. I'm seeing the neurosurgeon next month to hopefully get some guidance/clearance on exactly what I should and should not be doing.

I also have the 100 day post transplant check-up next month to determine if there is any active cancer at that time. If not, I will be monitored on a monthly basis. If so, I will decide whether to undergo a second stem cell replacement or chemotherapy. I'll let you know.

For now I'm really enjoying life and am really thankful for my family and friends who have helped me through this journey.

Thanks Again and Live Stongly - Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin and Brian

Wednesday, December 15, 2004 10:17 AM CST

Hi Everyone! Yes, I am home. I was discharge d on Monday with a heavy duty surgical mask that I had to wear as I exited the hospital and which will be perfect for the plastering I'm planning in the Spring.

My time in the hospital was not that bad other than severely missing my family the first few days. Having them be able to visit made it bearable. I got into a little routine after a few days - breakfast, treadmill, read, lunch, treadmill again, read, dinner, tv or DVD, sleep (sort of).

The doctors and nurses were all great. Every Friday all five (5) doctors in the bone marrow transplant team (inclduing Dr. Dey) would stop by. My one attempt at humor, with aplogies to Harry Belafonte, "Dr. Dey come and me get to go home?", was met with (polite) laughter by all but Dr. Dey.

I thought the hospital food wasn't bad until I didn't take the anti-nausea medication beforehand. Actually, the chicken breast, turkey and (believe it or not) hot dogs were okay. I also ate my share of apple pie, angel food cake and ice cream.

I was really thankful for the number of people who visited me. Contrary to some reports I did recall all visits. It really lifted my spirits and broke up the routine. I'd also like to thank everyone for the continued support and meals you brought to Beth and the kids while I was away.

When I left the hospital (and pulled off the mask) it was great to get outside and breathe fresh air for the first time in 2 weeks. It was also great to be back home with Beth and the kids. Monday afternoon we played a lot of Catch Phrase, Jr. (thanks to the Berns' family) with the kids and I was pretty tired yesterday. That was apparently a lot more activity than I was used to. I feel much better today. I go back in tomorrow for my first follow-up visit and for the catheter removal.

I will be pretty much restricted to my home (other than follow-up hospital visits) until January 1 which is 30 days from the stem cell transplantation a/k/a "garlic" or "creamed corn" day.

Thanks again to everyone for your support and guest book entries.

Live Stong - Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin and Brian.

Saturday, December 4, 2004 6:19 AM CST

Hi Everyone:

I hope Thanksgiving brought relaxation time with friends and family. We had a very peaceful day and were thankful to have Bart home and be with friends.

Bart is now relaxing in his hospital suite (not really, but I keep telling him that). He had a round of chemo on Monday and Tuesday - did OK w/ it. He had his yummy, healthy stem cells placed back in on Thursday. I went in and the nurse asked me if I could smell the "garlicky" scent of the preservative that they use. Well to me it smelled more like fish but they're the experts, so if they say garlicky, then it must be garlicky. Anyway, Bart tolerated the stem cell transplant well. He was able to eat but was understandably very tired.

The suite is on the 14th Floor of Ellison Building at Mass General with a beautiful view of Boston. The doctors and nurses are wonderful and Bart states that the food isn't too bad either. But he so misses the home cooked meals he was receiving. (Let me be clear, not my home cooked meals, but all the great meals we've been receiving.)

Now the waiting again begins. Days 6-9 after the transplant are typically the hardest as white counts begin to bottom out - taking with them his immune system. Slowly, as I understand the process, the white counts will rise and continue until hopefully a normal level. At that time, Bart will be able to return home - approx. 2 weeks.

The boys were able to visit for the first time on Friday. What a great way to end the week. The reunion was splendid. The boys were happy to see all their art work prominently displayed in the suite and had fun on the huge treadmill. Oh yes, Bart, as we all know, not one for working out, has been walking miles at Warner Warp Speed on the treadmill. It's funny how things work out!!!

With the transplant unit come many restrictions. All visitors must have masks and gloves on. No food or items from home can be brought in. He goes have a portable DVD player (thank you Bloom-Robinson family) which he is enjoying. All books, movies, other reading materials are new and everything must be dissinfected before going in.

I think that we are both relieved that he's finally at this point in his treatment. It's been a long time coming and it's finally here. We are feeling very positive about his future and his response to this transplant.

To those who continue to prepare and deliver our daily meals - thank you so very much. Also thanks to all those who sent Bart off with DVD entertainment and great reading materials - it's greatly appreciated.

I thank each and every one of you who is part of this journal and this journey for continuing to give me daily strength - friends, family, and community all contribute to helping us ultimately have our prayers answered. I wish to have my husband home - the boys wish to have their dad home - we'll take him bald and garlicky smelling - we just want him home with us on his road to wellness.

Peace to you and LIVE STRONG,
Beth

Thursday, November 11, 2004 6:53 PM CST

Hi Everyone - I'd like to thank everyone again for their help, support and guestbook entries over these many months. It's hard to beleive I was first diagnosed over 4 months ago.

I'm currently waiting for the stem cell harvesting on 11/15 (outpatient) and high dose chemo and stem cell replacement (in hospital) on 11/29 (for 12 to 16 days they keep re-assuring me). I'm no longer very anxious about the process but want to get started as soon as possible to get it over with.

My blood levels are dropping at this time from the chemo I received last Thursday so I'm getting a little of the "boy in the bubble" treatment right now. Everything should get back to normal by Monday so that I can be out and about more but I have been advised to stay away from sick people - much easier said than done in New England in November - but so far so good.

Knowing that I will lose my hair after receiving the high dose chemo I decided to get a number "3" up at Anthony's. Brian said he did not like the haircut, he liked when my hair was "pouffy." (Which begs the question as to why no one around here told me my hair was pouffy.)

I added a photo of the kids to the site. I'll try to do more before I go in.

Thanks again and Live Strong - Bart, Beth, Kyle, COlin and Brian

Thursday, November 11, 2004 6:53 PM CST

Tuesday, November 2, 2004 6:50 PM CST

Hi Everyone - My progress and schedule remains the same. I did have one wisdom tooth pulled last week to avoid potential (infection) problems during the stem cell replacement procedure. Other than the momentary grinding sound it wasn't too bad.

The worst part was viewing the array of primevil tools on the oral surgeon's tray. I was afraid to ask whether he was going to use what looked like an oversized ball peen hammer head (without any apparent handle) during the procedure. As best I could tell he only used pliers (I'm sure there's a more technical term) and it was over in seconds.

I just wanted to thank everyone for their continued support. I also want to thank my Wolcott friends for their guestbook entries. It means a lot to hear from people I haven't seen in a while. It was nice seeing a lot of you at the 20th high school reunion - let's plan on seeing each other at the next one.

Thanks again and Live Strong(ly) - Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin and Brian

Friday, October 15, 2004 2:46 PM CDT

Hi Everyone:

I can't believe it's been so long since we last updated the journal; thanks for your patience. It's been a mixed bag of events since our last update. We are again blessed with encouraging test results and Bart continues to respond well to his chemo.

After battling through a terrible head cold and cough, which continues to hang on, Bart started what we think will be his last cycle of chemo this past Tuesday. Once the chemo cycle is completed, Bart will go through another bone marrow extraction and blood tests to confirm that he's still in a "complete response."

The next step will be a stem cell transplant. We met with transplant teams from MGH and BI last week. It certainly was strange meeting Dr. Miller at BI who worked his medical magic on my brother-in-law Rodney. Looking into the doctor's eyes and knowing he has literally given a life back to a family member is a strange position to be in - so we did what we thought best - we thanked him!!! What else do you say - How about a family discount?

Anyway, we now must decide on where to have Bart's inevitable stem cell transplant. I won't bore you with all the details but basically the procedure is to take out Bart's own stem cells, blast him with a high dose of chemo, wait a number of days (can't remember how many exactly), put those good stem cells back (hoping that they will grow into some good and strong cells and produce good clean blood), wait about 10 days for his immune system to bottom out, and then gradually watch his blood levels come back to normal range. We can expect Bart to be hospitalized roughly for 3-4 weeks.

A few weeks ago we thought December was about the time-frame we were looking at and that seemed so soon. Now both teams of doctors are saying after this round of chemo he's good to go. So we're talking around the 1st week of November. Safe to say 1 lucky Owen's turkey will be safe from the Warner family this year.

That brings us to where we are today. The boys are doing great, but we all do miss Misty a great deal. We continue to receive wonderful meals and I greatly appreciate all the effort that goes into preparing, cooking, and delivering those meals. I can't thank you all enough for that. Please know how much it means to us and also thanks for expanding my boys taste buds.

Finally, just thank you all for the loving words of support you all continue to give to us. I joined a support group through the Wellness Center which has support groups for patients and family members and also runs monthly resource/support groups for specific cancers, anyway, I was describing the support that we've gotten from this community, and the other participants just couldn't believe it. I think they all will be looking for homes in Needham!!! You all lend daily support to our family and are truly what it means to be part of a community. Thank you!!!

LIVE WELL AND LIVE STRONG,
Beth

Sunday, September 26, 2004 7:14 PM CDT

Hi Everyone - We want to thank you all for all of your amazing support. We really appreciate it a lot.

We received great news on the bone marrow biopsy performed two (2) Fridays ago (9/17). The oncology fellow Dr. Van der Heiden was kind enough to call me late in the afternoon to let me know that the oncologist's reading of the biopsy was that it was now normal (the plasma cells in my bone marrow had been reduced below 5rom 50efore treatment.) The pathologist will issue the official report within a week or so (with presumably the same result).

The next step is consulting with transplant doctors the week of October 4. As well as the Velcade has worked all five (5) oncologists I've spoken with are still highly recommending the stem cell transplant and we should know within the next month or so when it will be scheduled.

I'm having a ct scan of my c-spine tomorrow and then meeting with the radiational oncologist Thursday to discuss whether there appears to be any instability in my neck. I also plan to speak with the neurosurgeon shortly after that as well.

I'm getting to work a lot more and feel a little more productive. I also feel like our family life is getting more back to normal. I can't run around but I'm feeling fairly useful helping coach Kyle's soccer team on game days. I was also told I did a wonderful job substituting players at Brian's soccer game on Saturday. (I think the erasable clipboard was the key.)

The kids are all doing well. Beth got a little run down and sick but she's feeling much better. We had a sad event earlier in the week when Misty was put to sleep. We all miss her very much but her quality of life was really suffering. She had a good 15 and 1/2 years and I'd like to thank everyone who helped us take care of her for the 13 she lived with us.

Thanks again for all your help and support and Live Strong!
Bart, Bath, Kyle, Colin, Brian and the Spirit of Misty.

Wednesday, September 15, 2004 11:15 AM CDT

Hi Everyone:

Thanks for your continuing words of support and prayers. Keep all those positive thoughts coming.

Again this week we received encouraging news and test results from our hematology oncologist. On Friday (9/17) we head into Boston for a bone marrow extraction to determine basically how much cancer is left in Bart's bone marrow. If, as we hope, we receive more good results, the next step would be 2 more rounds of chemo (which would be 2 less cycles than first anticipated). The chemo rounds would set us up for a stem cell transplant in the very near future - could be as soon as December, we'll see. In the coming weeks we'll be meeting with transplant teams to go over our options.

It's been nice getting back to the routine of school and seeing familar faces on a regular basis. The boys have settled in nicely. Bart's enjoying another chemo-free week and getting into work on a daily basis. He really enjoyed seeing everyone at the Hillside picnic.

The meals we continue to receive have been wonderful. We so appreciate everyones efforts especially now with school starting and lives becoming more hectic.

The outpouring of support from this community has been incredible and therefore I ask that you please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers because it's what sustains us.

I'd just like to share one last thought, you may be familar with it. In one of the books I'm reading, I came across this simple quote which I just can't seem to let go of..."Yesterday's the past, tomorrow's the future, but today is a GIFT. That's why it's called the present."

I will try to live each day as a gift. Thanks to all of you for being my daily gifts.

LIVE STRONG,
Beth

Thursday, September 9, 2004 8:27 AM CDT

Hi Everyone - My family and I would like to thank you all again for all of your support. It is really overwhelming and greatly appreciated.

We met with the hematology oncologist at MGH who is one of the lead doctors on the clinical trial I am on and we received more encouraging news. He said that all of the test results so far show a continued decrease in the output of the Bence Jones protein indicating that my body is continuig to respond well to the Velcade (which is killing off the cancer cells).

So well that it now puts us in the odd position of having to speak with transplant specialists concerning a stem cell transplant earlier than expected. Since there is no known chemo (at this time) to completely eradicate multiple myeloma cells from one's system, a stem cell transplant should keep the cells from coming back for a longer period of time.

They are suggesting a stem cell transplant now because (with the Velcade working so well) they believe the transplant will work most effectively when my body has the fewest cancer cells rather than waiting for a later date when the cells are likely to start to come back.

We plan to consult transplant doctors from both MGH and Beth Israel (Dr. Miller - my brother's doctor for his bone marrow transplant last year) during the first two weeks of October. We'll let you know what they say in a future journal entry.

I'll also get my neck re-imaged 9/27 and hopefully see the radiational oncologist within a week after that to discuss the results and his consult with the neurosurgeon as to whether they will recommend disc fusion in that area.

Physically, I feel the best I have since I first started feeling syptoms in June. I still have some neck pain, I have to avoid heavy lifting and must limit exercise to walking but I have a lot more energy even while undergoing chemo. I'm getting into work most days now, too.

Since the date of our last entry we continued our "family neighborhood vacation" by attending a Pat's pre-season game courtesy of your favorite former, current and future Needham neighbor and his friends. (It's an inside joke which I know is not polite to tell but I thought a few of you would get a chuckle from it.)

It was a beautiful night for a game and with the 6:45 start time we stayed for most of the game. We even tailgated in the parking lot before the game which the kids really enjoyed. I called home from work during the day and Brian, who normally quickly turns me over to Beth, spoke for five minutes about the collapsable table that we borrowed from our neighbors to use for the tailgate.

We also had a nice Labor Day weekend including a spontaneouosly planned barbecue at our house on Sunday. It was just about a month ago when I couldn't wait to have the strength to have just a few people over on a weekend night so it was really nice. The younger kids had a great time mostly playing some type of game in the two ugliest pine trees on our property for over 2 hours. We think they all got nicknames for the game but were unsure what prompted it.

The kids are now back to school and seem to be happy about it.

Yes, it's Brian anecdote time. One day for lunch we made Brian a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. We looked over and he had opened up the sandwich and he was sticking goldfish inside. We asked him what he was doing and he said he was putting "a crunch in his lunch."

Thanks again for all your support and Live Strong. Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin and Brian

from Beth: don't let him kid you, he never did any heavy lifting and we only have ugly trees in our yard.

Thanks again for all your support and words of encouragement. We are blessed with such a caring community and it just goes to show you how positive power really can and does make a difference in our daily lives -keep the positive thoughts and prayers coming - they're working.
LIVE STRONG, Beth

Friday, August 27, 2004 10:29 AM CDT

Hi Everyone - We'd like to thank you all for your continuing support. I know we've said it before but I feel like I can't say it enough.

Since the date of our last entry I received the same good results on the urine test which shows that the Velcade is still working. I also received the results on the new blood test (which is more sensitive than the urine test) done in California which the oncologist said was good even though the number appeared high to me. I will see the doctor on 9/7 for more of an explanation. I will also have more of these blood tests done every few weeks.

I finished radiation last week and had this week off from chemo. I was able to use the week for a little family vacation. We've been to the pool a few times, we saw the Lord of the Rings Exhibition at the Musueum of Science (courtesy of our neighbor Lynn), we went to see the Pawsox last night and are going to the N.E. Revolution game Saturday (courtesy of the kind neighbors' vacation).

Oh, and we watched a little of the olympics as well.
Beth likes to say that she has "olympic fever" before we turn the t.v. on. After we went to the Lord of the Rings Exhibition Brian had the urge to start watching the movies again. I asked him if he'd rather watch the U.S. men's olympic basketball team play and he said "I do not have olympic fever."

Thanks again to you all and enjoy the last few days before school and Live Strong! Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin, Brian and Misty

Tuesday, August 17, 2004 6:23 PM CDT

Hi Everyone - Thanks for your continuing support, prayers, meals, help with the kids and just stopping by to say hello when I'm outside in the yard.

I'm in the second week of cycle 2 of the Velcade. I hope to receive the results of the blood test taken last week (and sent to California) which should give a more precise reading of how well the Velcade worked in the first cycle. I'll also have a urine test this week which will hopefully show that the Velcade is contiuing to do its job through the second cycle.

We were very happy to see an old friend of mine who stopped by last week. His nickname is "Oz", as in the "all knowing." The kids had a difficult time accepting that one but they thought his wisecracks were hysterical. They especially liked his dry remarks to the witress at Bertuccis. I'd repeat them but they would lose a bit of humor in the translation. Oz arrived in a huge white pimpmobile that he claims cost only $35.00 through Priceline.com. We think he just preferred driving a white Lincoln Town Car to the Javelin they offered at $29.95.

Oz has not lost his sense of humor or his animal magnetism (sort of). Misty got off her bed took 2 or 3 sniffs and promptly walked back to her bed, squatted and peed. We're still unsure of whether that was a sign of acceptance or rejection. Oz was kind enough to help Windex the floor as I showed Misty to the door.

I hate to stay on this vein of humor but I have been trying to do a little more around the house (other than unload the dishwasher or horror of horrors - fold clothes!). Although the lawn has been mowed twice (once by our good neighbor Greg) there was a large overgrowth of grass and weeds by the stop sign. It was startting to bug me becuse the rest of the lawn looked pretty good.

I brought the weed wacker out to the sign and for the first few minutes splashes of green struck my shoes and socks as I worked my way to the bottom of the mess. All of a sudden clumps of brown began to fly fast and furious before I could take my finger off the trigger. You can imagine the first word I uttered as the stuff flew in my direction. Lesson learned: It is a good idea to wear glasses (if not safety goggles) while weed wacking around a stop sign in a neighborhood loaded with dogs.

On that note - Thank you for your support and Live Strong. Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin, Brian and Misty

Thursday, August 12, 2004 10:39 AM CDT

Hi Everyone:

It's hard to believe we're actually in week 4 of the radiation treatments - with only 1 more week to go. As Bart shared in his last entry, he has responded well to the Velcade (chemo) and radiation.

After week 5 they will do more scans to see how much of the tumor at the base of Bart's skull has shrunk. It will then be determined if Bart's neck is stable or not because the tumor has actually eroded some of the bone. If it is determined to be unstable, Bart would require surgery to stabilize his neck. The remaining tumor would not be removed because of the placement of it (as we understand it).

I really have felt in the last couple of weeks that our lives are back to normal. Bart's been going to work most days and daily trips to the hospital are now routine. The parking valet attendents wave us in when they see the purple van coming!

We met with docs at Dana Farber this week. They also are encouraged by Bart's response to the chemo and radiation and since they have spoken with our MGH docs a number of times, they had quite an understanding of Bart's illness. It's comforting to be in a docs office and they know what the "problem" is so you don't have to go through every little detail.

We spoke to them mostly about what our options are for transplant and the timing of that. It seems most multiple myeloma patients do indeed go through at least 1 stem cell transplant. The docs refer to "sooner" rather than "later" and we understand that when the chemo ends in late November, it will be determined when to go ahead and do the stem cell transplant. This typically means a 3-4 week hospital stay. Bart's brother had the same procedure so we have the peculiar benefit of knowing what's ahead.

So we're heading in the right direction. All the news we've gotten has been the best we could hope for. We know we still have a long road to travel, but it's not a dead end - the trip will just take a while.

I need a thesaurus to come up with some new words to describe how I feel about our TEAM WARNER - thankful, appreciative, overwhelmed... - these words just don't cut it when it comes to the support we've experienced. (Any of you language fanatics please email me some new choice words - I'm limited.)

I hope so much that you all know how lucky we feel to be here with you. The strength we get is just enormous and tangible. When you are experiencing something difficult in your life, nothing means more than "true friends." We are surrounded by "true friends" and blessed to have been embraced by all of you.

LIVE STRONG,
Beth

Saturday, August 7, 2004 6:59 AM CDT

Hi Everyone - Thanks again to everyone who has been helping us. All the help and meals are sincerely appreciated. The neighborly "home vacation" surprise literally brought tears to our eyes.

I completed my third week of radiation and now only have two more to go. My thanks to those with the warped (keen?)enough sense of humor to say that at least my head isn't glowing. I do actually appreciate the humor.

I had a week off from chemo which made it a lot easier to eat, drink and get to work. It almost felt like a normal week with a little extra fatigue at the end of the day.

Test results also indicate that I am responding well to the chemo (Velcade) treatments which should hopefully get me in good shape for a stem cell replacement later on down the road. The results came in on Monday but realist that I am I made them repeat the test and the results were confirmed yesterday. If things keep going well I'm hoping to get my picture on a box of Velcade.

For those who have inquired about our dog Misty, she is still going strong. Although some days she starts out a little too strong by barking at about 5:00 a.m. Beth has been kind enough to take her out (outside I mean - although at 5:00 a.m. the thought has crossed our minds . . .) so I can sleep. This week wasn't too bad, she waited until 7:30 on at least two occasions.

I feel like I cannot say thanks enough to all of you for your help, thoughts and prayers, it really makes a difference.

Live Strong - Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin and Brian!!

Monday, August 2, 2004 8:24 AM CDT

Hi Everyone and Happy Monday!!!

Two weeks of radiation down, 3 to go. Bart gets a break from chemo this week and I think he's done really well tolerating the treatments. Hopefully he'll catch up on some sleep this week. I admire his strength and bravery through each and every day.

Bart's been feeling pretty good, a bit tired, which is typical. His appetite has certainly improved thanks to all of the fabulous meals that are being delivered. He gets pretty excited about dinner time lately (actually, so do I). I doubt very much he would be looking forward to dinner so much if I were preparing the meals. Thanks to all of you who have so generously given your time to prepare those meals - they've been a lifesaver.

So life is slowly getting back to normal. We've settled into our appointment schedule at the hospital and Bart's been able to take the train to work and then over the MGH on some occassions.

The boys are doing really well. We took them into MGH last Wednesday to see the radiation dept. They actually were able to go right into the radiation room where Bart gets his treatment. The music was blaring which they all thought was "cool". They met the 4 radiation team members that we see daily. I think it took the mystery away - now they know where daddy goes and it's not a scary place. The huge salt water fish tank w/ lots of Nemo fish helped ease their worries.

I hope you ALL understand how your words and prayers are making a difference in our lives. The strength we get from phone messages, journal messages, and the quick words of support at Sudbury's touch us deeply. Please know how much we depend on this community to help us plow forward and reach for the future. We are the lucky ones!!!

Till next time,
LIVE STRONG each and every day,
Beth

Thursday, July 29, 2004 8:37 PM CDT

Hi Everyone - I would like to thank everyone for their physical and emotional support during this difficult time. I don't know where we would be without all your support.

Since the date of our last entry I've undergone further radiation treatments and one chemotherapy treatment (day 8).

The radiation treatments have reduced the tumor (plasma cytoma) to the extent that it no longer presses on any nerves which were causing my headaches.

Pressure on my hypoglossal nerve has also been reduced so the right side of my tongue is no longer swollen. Which is great because I can say things like "construction issues in this litigation" without sounding like Sylvester the Cat. This is also good because my kids, co-workers and friends can no longer make fun of how I speak. Of course, this does not stop them from making fun of what I say.

The neurosurgeon previously warned me about loss of strength and mobility in my neck and shoulder muscles. This appeared to be occurring but stopped about threee days ago and the strength and mobility are returning.

I undergo day 10 of the radiation treatments tomorrow with 15 to go (Yippee!).

I also undergo another chemotherapy treatment tomorrow (day 11) and I hope to hear some time next week as to whether the drug has been effective in killing the cancer cells. I also get 10 days off from chemo which should allow me to get back to work on some abbreviated yet regular schedule. Some may question my decision to keep going to work at this time but I get a psychological benefit from knowing I can function at work and a lot of emotional support from the great people I work with.

Thanks again for all your support and Live Strong. Bart, Beth, Kyle, Colin and Brian

Sunday, July 25, 2004 2:48 PM CDT

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for all the incredibly touching messages you have sent. We find so much strength in your words.

Well week 1 of radiation down, 4 to go. We also completed the first week of chemo (2 treatments) and Bart tolerated the Friday dose much better than the previous one. We're quite amazed and happy to report that after 1 week of radiation, Bart's headaches are no more. What a relief for him!! Still some neck pain and discomfort at the entry points of the radiation - but at least the headaches have stopped.

We'll be having earlier appointments all this week, 10 & 11 am instead of the later 5:00 appointments. This should also help with the traffic situation. All the hospital depts have said they think the hospital will be empty since they tripled up on the patients last week. So we should be quick in, quick out. Also, I'm happy to report that I've been able to get a valet parking pass for the remainder of our treatment. It's paper gold as far as I'm concerned.

The boys are doing well. Thanks to all of you who have helped us immensely with their care this past week and transporting them here and there. What a comfort it is to us knowing our kids are with their friends during these times. As I've mentioned to some of you, we've been very open with them about this disease and the treatment Bart is undergoing. I hope your children are OK with what is going on as well and please let them know that it's OK for them to talk about it with our boys if they want to.

I'm at a loss for words when it comes to the outpouring of kindness we've had since this all began. This community is incredible and I thank you all for your support.

Till next time.
LIVE STRONG,
Beth

Wednesday, July 21, 2004 8:35 AM CDT

Hi Everyone. Thank you all so much for your inspirational messages. It is a great feeling to be linked to our friends this way and the messages give me strength as does your friendship.

Yesterday (tues) Bart had his first chemo treatment. The treatment itself is basically a 1 minute infusion and then we wait 5 minutes and we're good to go. He seemed to tolerate it pretty well. The type of drug he's on has minimal side effects, mostly feeling tired and nauseaus. He will not loose his hair (so we're told).

The radiation treatment is also quite quick, about 10-15 minutes. He's actually being given a pediatric dose since it's being administered to his skull and over 5 weeks time. The time consuming part is the pre-treatment lab work because we must wait 1 hour after blood work to proceed w/ the chemo, but the ward is bright and has a beautiful view of the Charles.

Please keep your messages coming, they work wonders!!!

Till next time. LIVE STRONG
Beth

Monday, July 19, 2004 6:45 PM CDT

Hi everyone. We thought this would be a great way to communicate with everyone to keep you up-to-date. Thanks for the emails and phone messages. Please understand that I'm just unable to respond to all of them right now, which certainly doesn't mean they are not appreciated - they are.

Today Bart started his radiation treatment. It's amazing how fast the actual procedure is - only about 15 minutes.

Bart will have radiation everyday (Mon-Fri) for the next 5 weeks. He starts his chemo tomorrow (Tues) and will go days 1, 4, 8 & 11 and then have 10 days off and then repeat the cycle.

Thanks so much for all your thoughts, comforting words, and prayers. It means a great deal to us during this time.

Also, I'd like to thank everyone who has graciously volunteered to take our boys and prepare meals. The meals have been just awesome - ladies you are setting the bar way too high for me. I can't tell you how nice it is to come home and not have to worry about what to put on the table.

It is so comforting for us to know our boys are with friends. Brian came home the other night and told me he's "being treated like royal" so that about sums up how the boys feel about being with their friends.

Yes this is a tough time for us, but we're so lucky to have incredible friends and neighbors. We get to come home every night to our boys and our home - there are so many people getting treatment that don't have that luxury, and for that, and all our truly amazing friends, we are grateful.

Till next time - LIVE STRONG

Beth

Monday, July 19, 2004 6:45 PM CDT

Monday, July 19, 2004 11:50 AM CDT

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