After sending Jed to school, Reg and Anita were ready to go to the hospital. Together they prayed and left the house. It was a mixed feeling. Reg was a bit anxious, Anita was kind of excited that the last dose has finally come. They talked about if they would meet the same patient who sat next to them last time. How much weight has Reg may have lost by now? etc., etc. Reg had a long list of questions prepared to talk to the doctor and was anxious to find out if he will still need to continue with all those medication once chemo is finished.
Finally, Anita dropped Reg to the hospital front door and went to look for car park space. IT took a much longer time, but they were thankful that she did eventually. Soon they were called in. Reg showed the nurse that he had a minor operation from Tuesday while waiting for blood test result. By the time the nurse returned, she told them that she was waiting for the haematologist's decision to go ahead. After one hour waiting, the decision was "NO". Poor Reg was still holding his list of questions and wonder what it all meant. Thankfully, the nurse decided it might be best if the doctor replied them directly and there were some other physical examination needed to be done.
After direct consultation with the doctor, it was cleared that it was best for Reg to recover completely from the wound healing before further chemo, as blood count was just on the borderline. A slight delay in chemo will not be a big issue. Both REg and Anita thought it would be nice to have a bit of a rest in the meantime. In fact, Anita thought it was a huge relief for her in terms of all the other doctors appointments next week.
Next week will be tightly scheduled. Tuesday a follow up appointment with dermatologist. Thursday appointment with the radiotherapist and finally Friday, chemo appointment. The family thank God that Reg can have an extra time to recover and rest and allow him to see all the other specialists before the last chemo. They thank God that one of the school mums can assist them both Thursday and Friday. And they continue to trust their Heavenly Father in the week ahead, and priase God for His wise guidance in all things.
To Anita's surprise, the most disappointed person in the whole event was Jed. He cried at the school gate that he could not go to his friend's place after school. It took quite a lot of comfort to get Jed to overcome his disappiontment. Yet, Anita was joyful in God's way to train Jed to learn to cope with disappointment in life. Eventually, Jed returned home happily and looking forward for next Thursday when mummy and daddy will be busy again to leave him with his friend to play.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Preparation for the last dose
Time flies! Reg and Anita was excited the last dose of chemo is coming along tomorrow. Of course, there are worries, but knowing tomorrow will mark a huge milestone, it is a cause to rejoice and thanksgiving. Yesterday, Reg went to see the dermatologist with regards to the change in pigmentation on his finger during the course of chemo. To their utter surprise, Reg was requested to strip from top to bottom to check pigmentation in the entire body. YEt they were thankful for such thorough examination. An old cyst on his back was also removed and taken for pathological test due to colour changed. Result will only come out next week. Jed was amazingly good. As they waited over an hour in the waiting area in the doctor surgery, Jed was happy to scribble with mummy. Jed saw patterns on the chair that reminded him of mazes and requested to play maze. Fortunately, when Anita was young, she enjoyed creating mazes when she ran out of mazes to do. So they both had an hour of fun, while one created and the other went through it with excitment. The waiting time seemed too short for Jed, but he complied to go inside with daddy. Jed saw his first minor operation when the dermatologist cut open the cyst. IT was so funny when Jed spoke out how smelly it was, that the doctor told the truth to Reg, as he was the only person who had no idea what had been done on him at his back. Reg is still not walking normally, but today, he definitely felt much better. The family just prayed that the last chemo will not put more stress on his right leg and allows recovery. The family is jsut glad to know the presence of God is with them all the way. There is no knowing what tomorrow holds, but by faith, they ask and trust God for protection and smoothness in the whole procedure.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Getting Better
After being unwell and low in energy, Anita and Jed are both beginning to feel better, with the help of antibiotics. Praise God for answering prayers. Tomorrow Reg has an appointment with the dermatologist because of an unusual pigment changes in his finger during the course of chemo. REg and ANita do not even know what to expect, but pray that GOd will use the doctor's expertise to find out what's wrong. Reg and Anita have decided to take Jed along to the specialist tomorrow as the appointment falls right at school finish time. It was too hard to seek help knowing many families will be busy picking up their kids from school, but thankfully, Jed has been well-trained to wait at doctors. The family only prays that the waiting time will not be way too long, and they won't end up leaving at peak hours. The family conitnue to rejoice that the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth is their ultimate help and He who watches over them will neither slumber nor sleep. (Ps 121)
Saturday, March 26, 2011
A low point in the journey
Anita has finally succumbed to sickness. She was quite congested and coughing as well. Could she lie down and rest? Well, she is seriously waiting for Christ's return where she will enjoy her real rest. It has always been tough to go out with an elderly and a young boy but she felt it especially this morning. Returning home did not make it any easier, as Jed was bored and wanted attention. With huge struggle, she finally got Jed to play on his own with as little noise as possible as her head was pounding. After a long day with no rest, her tolerant has reached to its max by dinner time, but everyone in her household was only eager to do more talking. Her request to be quiet for five minutes did not even last 1 minute. Jed tried to help mummy to tell grandma and daddy to be quiet, but realised it was useless, so he began to talk as well. Anita realised it was a lost battle but thought it was halarious when everyone was talking, but none of them were listening to one another except the person who was sick. So deflated, she could only pray for a quieter night later in the evening.
Reg's immobility means he can't help. Since both Anita and Jed are sick, he could only stay away. He has been suffering insomnia also meant he was tired during the day. Yesterday was his very low point, but thankfully, couple of friendly calls did lifted him up and he managed to have a better night sleep last night. This morning, he felt his leg was slightly better and managed to make it to the kitchen and sat there for breakfast while Anita was out this morning.
The family continues to pray that Reg would not get sick as the last chemo is only one week away, while both Jed and Anita will recover quickly. They also pray that Reg's spirit would continue to be lifted up even with immobility.
While the family is going through a low point, they remember God's presence in the midst of them. A low point in life is part of a reality in everyone's life, but thank God, we can have hope in Him who gives us strength.
Reg's immobility means he can't help. Since both Anita and Jed are sick, he could only stay away. He has been suffering insomnia also meant he was tired during the day. Yesterday was his very low point, but thankfully, couple of friendly calls did lifted him up and he managed to have a better night sleep last night. This morning, he felt his leg was slightly better and managed to make it to the kitchen and sat there for breakfast while Anita was out this morning.
The family continues to pray that Reg would not get sick as the last chemo is only one week away, while both Jed and Anita will recover quickly. They also pray that Reg's spirit would continue to be lifted up even with immobility.
While the family is going through a low point, they remember God's presence in the midst of them. A low point in life is part of a reality in everyone's life, but thank God, we can have hope in Him who gives us strength.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
The lesson of waiting
With the episode of immobility, Reg and Anita had been waiting for the haemotologist for advice.
THe long wait has made Anita stuck at home and could not even go grocery shopping. But God sent a "raven" to provide for the family: A friend rang at perfect timing to enquire if we needed any green grocer. Finally, the wait was over (so they thought), they were informed to have an immediate ultrasound. So off they went, but the earliest time they could fit Reg in was like last time at 4:30pm. Learning from last time, it was not a possible option for Anita to take both REg and Jed to ultrasound, knowing Jed would be hungry and she won't be able to reach home in time to even cook. Thankfully, God's provision is sufficient. The friend who dropped the grocery was more than happy to drop Reg to ultrasound, thus relieved Anita from the stressful dinner time.
The result was a surprised to all. Reg had a torn muscle and hematoma , as well as a slight extension in the clot. Yet they had to wait for another day to find out about the management.
Reg and Anita waited for the whole morning and there was no response from the doctor side. Anita was happy to move on to do her necessary chores, even to hop out for a cup of coffee with a friend before picking up Jed from school. She has taken everyone in the household to doctors and hospitals in such a high frequency, Anita has developed an important principle in waiting for medical result: "NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS." If it is serious, the doctor will call you immediately and ensure your presence in the hospital. No matter how long the wait is, no news means it is not serious. So Reg felt better (emotionally) and found a comfortable position in front of his laptop. Anita was busy in the kitchen preparing meals, and even made dumplings upon Jed's request.
The long wait was finally over by late afternoon. There was nothing Reg can do but rest and ice and get elevated. Apparently, Reg had a twist on Sat, and felt ok on the day. But little did they know, Reg is now very "fragile". Little injury can become serious. It may take up to a month for him to regain full use of his leg. The immobility is a annoying, but they were thankful it is not permenant.
Jed is still with runny nose and started coughing but mostly in the middle of the night. Thankfully, no fever and happy as usual.
Anita is wearing low. She has sore throat and runny nose has began. She will need to have a good night sleep tonight and pray that her body will be strong enough to fight the cold off. She can't work out what it means for the weekend to come if she is sick. Yet why can't she be sick and have a bit of lying down? Who will take care of everyone else? She has no answer, but once again, she knew God is sovereign and she is happy for whatever tomorrow holds. Perhaps she is too tired to even think but trust God's grace to help her through each day as it comes.
THe long wait has made Anita stuck at home and could not even go grocery shopping. But God sent a "raven" to provide for the family: A friend rang at perfect timing to enquire if we needed any green grocer. Finally, the wait was over (so they thought), they were informed to have an immediate ultrasound. So off they went, but the earliest time they could fit Reg in was like last time at 4:30pm. Learning from last time, it was not a possible option for Anita to take both REg and Jed to ultrasound, knowing Jed would be hungry and she won't be able to reach home in time to even cook. Thankfully, God's provision is sufficient. The friend who dropped the grocery was more than happy to drop Reg to ultrasound, thus relieved Anita from the stressful dinner time.
The result was a surprised to all. Reg had a torn muscle and hematoma , as well as a slight extension in the clot. Yet they had to wait for another day to find out about the management.
Reg and Anita waited for the whole morning and there was no response from the doctor side. Anita was happy to move on to do her necessary chores, even to hop out for a cup of coffee with a friend before picking up Jed from school. She has taken everyone in the household to doctors and hospitals in such a high frequency, Anita has developed an important principle in waiting for medical result: "NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS." If it is serious, the doctor will call you immediately and ensure your presence in the hospital. No matter how long the wait is, no news means it is not serious. So Reg felt better (emotionally) and found a comfortable position in front of his laptop. Anita was busy in the kitchen preparing meals, and even made dumplings upon Jed's request.
The long wait was finally over by late afternoon. There was nothing Reg can do but rest and ice and get elevated. Apparently, Reg had a twist on Sat, and felt ok on the day. But little did they know, Reg is now very "fragile". Little injury can become serious. It may take up to a month for him to regain full use of his leg. The immobility is a annoying, but they were thankful it is not permenant.
Jed is still with runny nose and started coughing but mostly in the middle of the night. Thankfully, no fever and happy as usual.
Anita is wearing low. She has sore throat and runny nose has began. She will need to have a good night sleep tonight and pray that her body will be strong enough to fight the cold off. She can't work out what it means for the weekend to come if she is sick. Yet why can't she be sick and have a bit of lying down? Who will take care of everyone else? She has no answer, but once again, she knew God is sovereign and she is happy for whatever tomorrow holds. Perhaps she is too tired to even think but trust God's grace to help her through each day as it comes.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
How much can one plan?
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. (Proverbs 16:9)
Anita planned to take Jed to BSF this morning. She planned to help her sister in law. She planned to ...
Jed woke up with unstoppable runny nose. He did not want to go out at all. Anita knew she must stay home.
Reg woke up with leg cramp. He struggled to stand and was in pain. Anita knew she must cancel the plan to help her sister-in-law.
God obviously has another plan for Anita. She indeed thank God that she was forced to stay at home to only find out what happened to Reg.
There was no answer to Jed's runny nose, perhaps it is just a cold, but Jed was clingy.
There was no answer to Reg's cramp, unfortunately, no response from haemotologist, they'll just have to wait and see.
Reg had to put on the mask around the house again. Jed was constantly hearing mummy ash him to wash his hands, and Anita was running around to tend their needs and wished she can be an octopus.
In the midst of serving everyone in the house, Anita was thinking the issue about sickness and her own response. She has concluded that it was just an exhaustion, for there was:
One who claimed to be sick, but complained all things. Anita tried to control her temper and borrowed deaf ears and moved on to do the essentials.
One who needed clearing of the nose to breath, but refused. Anita tried to encourage and be patient.
One who is in pain and immobilised, but chose sleep as comfort. Anita tried to cook nice food to cheer him up but felt as helpless.
At the end of the day, Anita thanked God she is the one who is well even though deflated. She may not be able to plan ahead, and does not even know what tomorrow holds for her; but she is certain that God has it all planned. She asks for healing but trusts God's goodness in whatever may come. She earnestly seeks strength and courage to face another day!
Anita planned to take Jed to BSF this morning. She planned to help her sister in law. She planned to ...
Jed woke up with unstoppable runny nose. He did not want to go out at all. Anita knew she must stay home.
Reg woke up with leg cramp. He struggled to stand and was in pain. Anita knew she must cancel the plan to help her sister-in-law.
God obviously has another plan for Anita. She indeed thank God that she was forced to stay at home to only find out what happened to Reg.
There was no answer to Jed's runny nose, perhaps it is just a cold, but Jed was clingy.
There was no answer to Reg's cramp, unfortunately, no response from haemotologist, they'll just have to wait and see.
Reg had to put on the mask around the house again. Jed was constantly hearing mummy ash him to wash his hands, and Anita was running around to tend their needs and wished she can be an octopus.
In the midst of serving everyone in the house, Anita was thinking the issue about sickness and her own response. She has concluded that it was just an exhaustion, for there was:
One who claimed to be sick, but complained all things. Anita tried to control her temper and borrowed deaf ears and moved on to do the essentials.
One who needed clearing of the nose to breath, but refused. Anita tried to encourage and be patient.
One who is in pain and immobilised, but chose sleep as comfort. Anita tried to cook nice food to cheer him up but felt as helpless.
At the end of the day, Anita thanked God she is the one who is well even though deflated. She may not be able to plan ahead, and does not even know what tomorrow holds for her; but she is certain that God has it all planned. She asks for healing but trusts God's goodness in whatever may come. She earnestly seeks strength and courage to face another day!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Feeling tired but resting well
It has been a few days since Reg's chemo. The family praise God that the side effect has been under control. Reg is feeling more tired than his past chemos, presumably this is part of the accumulative effects. Slight discomfort coming from the neck, but hopefully nothing serious. The clotting of the leg seems to be improving. Reg has been very low in energy and today was the first time he managed without napping and tried to assist Anita with dinner preparation and bathing Jed. Reg is also getting better at taking the injection as Anita is also getting better at doing it. The family continues to pray for physical strength and restoration.
Jed had been praying for good weather, but was sad that God did not answer his prayer. Anita took the opportunity to help Jed to understand that God is still good even our prayers weren't answered in the way to our liking. Thankfully, Jed learns to see the goodness of God.
Anita went out to dinner for the first time without Reg and Jed since Dec. Even though, she still has to cook and clean up before leaving home, she was happy to have a night out on her own with friends. Anita was especially relieved when Jed is getting better at allowing daddy to read bedtime stories. Jed told mummy excitedly that daddy read three Bible stories on top of other story books for him first thing he saw mummy this morning. Anita was thinking may be she should go out more often to encourage more bonding time for Reg and Jed. Unfortunately Jed was crying as soon as Anita told him that she will be going away on Wednesday night to take his aunt to hospital on Thursday. Anita could only trust God again for the next couple of days that Jed learns to accept the reality that mummy will only be away for one night and daddy can look after him. The family also prays that Reg will be in good health while Anita is away.
Jed had been praying for good weather, but was sad that God did not answer his prayer. Anita took the opportunity to help Jed to understand that God is still good even our prayers weren't answered in the way to our liking. Thankfully, Jed learns to see the goodness of God.
Anita went out to dinner for the first time without Reg and Jed since Dec. Even though, she still has to cook and clean up before leaving home, she was happy to have a night out on her own with friends. Anita was especially relieved when Jed is getting better at allowing daddy to read bedtime stories. Jed told mummy excitedly that daddy read three Bible stories on top of other story books for him first thing he saw mummy this morning. Anita was thinking may be she should go out more often to encourage more bonding time for Reg and Jed. Unfortunately Jed was crying as soon as Anita told him that she will be going away on Wednesday night to take his aunt to hospital on Thursday. Anita could only trust God again for the next couple of days that Jed learns to accept the reality that mummy will only be away for one night and daddy can look after him. The family also prays that Reg will be in good health while Anita is away.
Friday, March 18, 2011
7th chemo
Reg was excited knowing this is his 7th chemo, his second last one. This is another milestone telling him how much closer to the end.
After dropping Jed to school, Anita returned home to pick up Reg. PArking was hard due to road work with the new cancer building on its way. They thanked God's provision when they did make it in time to the hospital.
To their surprise, they were greeted with people handing out "green" cupcakes as soon as they walked into the hospital. Yes, it's St Patrick's Day. The clinic was decorated with balloons and Irish theme, nurses wearing green accessories to brighten up the place. Of course, it was limited only to the Haemotological and oncological unit. Reg was even sitting next to a patient who dressed for the occassion, with a big green hat and a bright green T-shirt! It was an effective way to destress the patients and with a light hearted talking points.
Soon, it was back to seriousness with regards to Reg's condition. After assessment and blood test result, it was green light to go ahead. Praise God for answered prayer! This time, Reg's left hand no longer can be used for the catheter due to some minor swelling. They decided to use the right hand which has a blood clot. Thankfully, the nurse managed to find a good vein and in no time, Reg was hooked up. The nurse told Reg jokingly, she has saved the best one for the very last time since it is getting harder with each chemo to find a good vein.
The haemotologist came and checked on Reg's blood clot in the leg and decided that Reg will need to be on blood thinner for three months everyday. The good news is that after radiotherapy, Reg can revert to oral drugs rather than injection.
Reg has also been referred to see a dermatologist with an unusual pigment change in his finger. The family pray this is nothing serious. While the chemo therapy is coming close to an end, Reg and Anita needs to prepare for radiotherapy in a month time. They thank God that the haemotologist was happy for them to change to Royal North Shore for treatment due to location. Otherwise, it will be a logistic madness on a daily basis to visit St Vincent for the Chan's family.
There is still a lot of unknown with regards to radiotherapy, but the family is taking things one step at a time. Appointment has been made with the specialist for April, and presumably, they will understand more when the time comes. Meantime, Reg is trying to rest from the chemo treatment with the usual morning sickness. Anita on the other hand is praying to get some quality sleep at night with no disturbance from both Reg and Jed.
Jed is doing well and learns to pray for the world events as well as for the family. Anita was trying her best to reassure Jed that God is still in control of all things because Jed struggled to see why God sent a tsunami and earthquake to Japan after disasters in New Zealand and Queensland. Anita is still pondering how to explain simply to a little child about the devastating judgment on mankind by God without losing sight of God's grace in Christ Jesus.
After dropping Jed to school, Anita returned home to pick up Reg. PArking was hard due to road work with the new cancer building on its way. They thanked God's provision when they did make it in time to the hospital.
To their surprise, they were greeted with people handing out "green" cupcakes as soon as they walked into the hospital. Yes, it's St Patrick's Day. The clinic was decorated with balloons and Irish theme, nurses wearing green accessories to brighten up the place. Of course, it was limited only to the Haemotological and oncological unit. Reg was even sitting next to a patient who dressed for the occassion, with a big green hat and a bright green T-shirt! It was an effective way to destress the patients and with a light hearted talking points.
Soon, it was back to seriousness with regards to Reg's condition. After assessment and blood test result, it was green light to go ahead. Praise God for answered prayer! This time, Reg's left hand no longer can be used for the catheter due to some minor swelling. They decided to use the right hand which has a blood clot. Thankfully, the nurse managed to find a good vein and in no time, Reg was hooked up. The nurse told Reg jokingly, she has saved the best one for the very last time since it is getting harder with each chemo to find a good vein.
The haemotologist came and checked on Reg's blood clot in the leg and decided that Reg will need to be on blood thinner for three months everyday. The good news is that after radiotherapy, Reg can revert to oral drugs rather than injection.
Reg has also been referred to see a dermatologist with an unusual pigment change in his finger. The family pray this is nothing serious. While the chemo therapy is coming close to an end, Reg and Anita needs to prepare for radiotherapy in a month time. They thank God that the haemotologist was happy for them to change to Royal North Shore for treatment due to location. Otherwise, it will be a logistic madness on a daily basis to visit St Vincent for the Chan's family.
There is still a lot of unknown with regards to radiotherapy, but the family is taking things one step at a time. Appointment has been made with the specialist for April, and presumably, they will understand more when the time comes. Meantime, Reg is trying to rest from the chemo treatment with the usual morning sickness. Anita on the other hand is praying to get some quality sleep at night with no disturbance from both Reg and Jed.
Jed is doing well and learns to pray for the world events as well as for the family. Anita was trying her best to reassure Jed that God is still in control of all things because Jed struggled to see why God sent a tsunami and earthquake to Japan after disasters in New Zealand and Queensland. Anita is still pondering how to explain simply to a little child about the devastating judgment on mankind by God without losing sight of God's grace in Christ Jesus.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Preparation
Reg has been able to regain a lot more mobility in the last couple of days. He managed to walk up & downstairs at home without limping and insisted that he can drive. Anita was delighted on his progress, and she was thrilled that she is getting better at doing injection. Last night, Reg responded there was less pain from the needle. Anita prays that she can really minimise the pain by doing it correctly because she has not really worked out why sometimes Reg felt less pain in some occasion and sometimes not.
The family prepared themselves for another chemo section on Thursday with their usual routine. Reg seemed a bit tense and reminded Anita to write down the list of questions that needed to ask the doctor for tomorrow as soon as she came back from grocery shopping. Unfortunately Anita was too tired, so Reg wrote them down at the end.
Everything should be familiar by now, but seeing the accummulative effects seemed to be different each time, the family just prayed that God will give them courage and strength in facing the chemo again. They pray that the nurse can find Reg's vein quickly and that his blood clot will not be getting worse as more chemo is being done. They really ask God that there will not be any delay in the treatment as Reg has only two more to go.
The family remembers the victims and their families in the recent Japan's natural disasters. There is no gurantee how life can end and how fast it can be. We can all be busy and focused on our daily livings, even essentials like our health, our family, our work. But they can vanish and disappear in a split second. But are we ready and prepared to face our Creator if this is our last second in life? Reg and Anita have to be prepared the day before the chemo treatment, but they are also pondering the preparation necessary to see their Creator.
The family prepared themselves for another chemo section on Thursday with their usual routine. Reg seemed a bit tense and reminded Anita to write down the list of questions that needed to ask the doctor for tomorrow as soon as she came back from grocery shopping. Unfortunately Anita was too tired, so Reg wrote them down at the end.
Everything should be familiar by now, but seeing the accummulative effects seemed to be different each time, the family just prayed that God will give them courage and strength in facing the chemo again. They pray that the nurse can find Reg's vein quickly and that his blood clot will not be getting worse as more chemo is being done. They really ask God that there will not be any delay in the treatment as Reg has only two more to go.
The family remembers the victims and their families in the recent Japan's natural disasters. There is no gurantee how life can end and how fast it can be. We can all be busy and focused on our daily livings, even essentials like our health, our family, our work. But they can vanish and disappear in a split second. But are we ready and prepared to face our Creator if this is our last second in life? Reg and Anita have to be prepared the day before the chemo treatment, but they are also pondering the preparation necessary to see their Creator.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Another hospital experience
Another emergency has happened in the Chan's household. Reg's mum was sent to emergency this morning as Anita was on her way to church with Jed. She had diarrhea from milk that was sitting out for a long time last night. Reg told Anita that her blood pressure was high and feeling nauseated, but insisted no medical need for his mum. IT was a tough decision, but it was a wise one when Anita called the ambulance while she was almost to church. There was no other way she could leave Reg to take care of his mum, while she has already gone out with Jed. To their surprise, the paramedics decided to send her to Emergency.
Returning home, Anita was planning to leave Jed with Reg to go to hospital, but Jed wanted to go with Anita. Thankfully, the hospital said they needed to wait for two more hours before they can tell us if the patient may be discharged. After two hours, they were told to wait for two more hours. Anita was just glad that she did not rush to the hospital straight after church with Jed. They found out the hospital was jsut waiting for all the blood test, CT scan results to confirm her status. Thankfully, she was perfectly fine with absolutely no problem. By late afternoon, Anita picked her up from the hospital and convinced Jed to stay home with dad.
Anita was embarrassed when she met the same nurse that tended Reg in the emergency department. The nurse kindly suggested Anita to take some rest at home for her mother-in-law was perfectly fine. Reg's mum was glad to return home and only complaint they did not give her food to eat until she demanded many times.
Reg on the other hand was feeling much better today and felt good. So he prepared dinner to lighten Anita's workload. They praise God that it all turned out well.
Returning home, Anita was planning to leave Jed with Reg to go to hospital, but Jed wanted to go with Anita. Thankfully, the hospital said they needed to wait for two more hours before they can tell us if the patient may be discharged. After two hours, they were told to wait for two more hours. Anita was just glad that she did not rush to the hospital straight after church with Jed. They found out the hospital was jsut waiting for all the blood test, CT scan results to confirm her status. Thankfully, she was perfectly fine with absolutely no problem. By late afternoon, Anita picked her up from the hospital and convinced Jed to stay home with dad.
Anita was embarrassed when she met the same nurse that tended Reg in the emergency department. The nurse kindly suggested Anita to take some rest at home for her mother-in-law was perfectly fine. Reg's mum was glad to return home and only complaint they did not give her food to eat until she demanded many times.
Reg on the other hand was feeling much better today and felt good. So he prepared dinner to lighten Anita's workload. They praise God that it all turned out well.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
A Relax Day
Reg is still limping, but ankle's swelling has decreased and only slight pain. So the household had decided to take things easy.
Today Jed and Reg both had an enjoyable time reading together while Anita had a sleep in morning. (Well, til 8am!) It was such a rare sight in the Chan's household, but everyone thought it was great. Anita fixed breakfast for everyone and had an unscheduled day. Jed had a great time making over 100 cookies with mummy for morning tea at church tomorrow. Reg on the other hand just rested. Later the family managed to drive to Manly Beach for a short stay as Reg wanted some fresh air out in the open.
After a hectic week, the family just thank God for a day to chill and relax.
Today Jed and Reg both had an enjoyable time reading together while Anita had a sleep in morning. (Well, til 8am!) It was such a rare sight in the Chan's household, but everyone thought it was great. Anita fixed breakfast for everyone and had an unscheduled day. Jed had a great time making over 100 cookies with mummy for morning tea at church tomorrow. Reg on the other hand just rested. Later the family managed to drive to Manly Beach for a short stay as Reg wanted some fresh air out in the open.
After a hectic week, the family just thank God for a day to chill and relax.
Friday, March 11, 2011
A Deep Appreciation
Reg has been in hospital for two nights. First night in Emergency and did not get a bed until 5:30am. It was a tough night for him. Second night wasn't any better, as the patient besides him had a sudden emergency, followed on with another serious sickness in the bed across him. By the time Anita arrived to meet him in the morning, Reg shared how he had learnt a deep appreciation of even the first breath in the morning, the ability to swallow food. Anita quickly flashed back to the truth of the Bible where it says, "Remember your Creator in the days of youe youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, "I find no pleasure in them"
Reg even saw a nurse in asssiting the patient with vomits all over her during the night and the cleaner to change bedsheet covered with diarrhea. A mother who had stayed in with his son for a fortnight to care for his son who even had troubled to swallow. Reg grew a whole new level in appreciating the job that medical staff and carers have to do!
Reg finally got dicharged late yesterday. No known reason to his fever, but treatment was given to deal with his blood clot. Anita has to learn how to inject a needle to Reg every night from now on. It was a nervous experience, but they have overcome their fear. Once again, they remembered many diabetic sufferers who had to put injection regularly and appreciate that Reg only need to do this temporarily, even though they don't know when he can stop yet.
In his stay in the hospital, Reg missed Jed very much. Jed likewise the same. Anita on the otherhand appreciated some quietness from both fronts. She took her time to shop and prepare meals at home in the morning before she went to visit Reg. On her way to the hospital, there was a peace that came to her as she knew Jed is safe at school, while Reg is safe in the hospital. The only frightening expereienced for Anita was when a Telstra guy knocked on her door at 10pm and said he was to connect the phone line. (Her mother-in-law disconnected the phone line!) There was no way Anita would allow a strange man to come into the house late at night when she had a 70 year old woman and a 4year old son with her! At that point Anita felt even stupid to tell the man her husband was in hospital revealing no male is in the house. Thankfully, the household was safe!
Reg is now resting at home and appreciated the comfort and familiarity of his home. He is limping and thankfully he has a walking frame. They do pray Reg will be able to walk easily again as his blood vessel opens up again and the pain to cease. However, they are just thankful to return to the mundane of life "at home".
Reg even saw a nurse in asssiting the patient with vomits all over her during the night and the cleaner to change bedsheet covered with diarrhea. A mother who had stayed in with his son for a fortnight to care for his son who even had troubled to swallow. Reg grew a whole new level in appreciating the job that medical staff and carers have to do!
Reg finally got dicharged late yesterday. No known reason to his fever, but treatment was given to deal with his blood clot. Anita has to learn how to inject a needle to Reg every night from now on. It was a nervous experience, but they have overcome their fear. Once again, they remembered many diabetic sufferers who had to put injection regularly and appreciate that Reg only need to do this temporarily, even though they don't know when he can stop yet.
In his stay in the hospital, Reg missed Jed very much. Jed likewise the same. Anita on the otherhand appreciated some quietness from both fronts. She took her time to shop and prepare meals at home in the morning before she went to visit Reg. On her way to the hospital, there was a peace that came to her as she knew Jed is safe at school, while Reg is safe in the hospital. The only frightening expereienced for Anita was when a Telstra guy knocked on her door at 10pm and said he was to connect the phone line. (Her mother-in-law disconnected the phone line!) There was no way Anita would allow a strange man to come into the house late at night when she had a 70 year old woman and a 4year old son with her! At that point Anita felt even stupid to tell the man her husband was in hospital revealing no male is in the house. Thankfully, the household was safe!
Reg is now resting at home and appreciated the comfort and familiarity of his home. He is limping and thankfully he has a walking frame. They do pray Reg will be able to walk easily again as his blood vessel opens up again and the pain to cease. However, they are just thankful to return to the mundane of life "at home".
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
First Emergency
Reg had been resting well at home since chemo on Thursday, with his normal morning sickness and general tiredness. Monday night, he complaint of lower leg cramp of some sort, and Anita thought it is similar to the swelling and pain in the arm, but this time it has changed position to the lower leg and decided to just keep an eye on it.
By morning Reg was limping and expressed more pain. At first the haemotologist thought it may be poor blood circulation, but decided to schedule Reg for an ultrasound to rule out anything severe. Thankfully, they've managed to get Reg an appointment in the late afternoon. It turned out to be a blood clot and likewise it was the same in the arm. While they were waiting for the doctor's verdict, poor Jed was complaining that he was hungry. It was half past 5 and there was no time for ANita to return home to cook in peak hour traffic, so they could only quickly eat out after all the waiting around. When they got home, Anita had to quickly bath Jed and getting him ready to bed, but Reg began to complain feeling hot flushes. Next, they knew Reg had a temperature of 38.4 degrees, which means he needed to go to hospital.
There was no option, but for Reg to wait around this time until Anita had put Jed to bed. Soon they were at RNS Emergency Department. Reg was quickly sent to the inside with blood test, X-ray, and on drips of antibiotics. By 11pm, his temperature dropped back to normal, but he needed to admit into hospital for the haemotologist to see him. They are still trying to work out the kind of possible infection that Reg has, but meantime, they are also treating his blood clot. Thankfully the clot was only a minor one.
So Anita returned home exhausted after a whole day running around. She just pray that she could sleep well and get recharge, ready for another day of running around. She knew God has been with her for even though she is tending Jed and Reg at the same time, they both are good at waiting around for one another. She also knew Reg is at God's hand and only pray for his safe returning.
By morning Reg was limping and expressed more pain. At first the haemotologist thought it may be poor blood circulation, but decided to schedule Reg for an ultrasound to rule out anything severe. Thankfully, they've managed to get Reg an appointment in the late afternoon. It turned out to be a blood clot and likewise it was the same in the arm. While they were waiting for the doctor's verdict, poor Jed was complaining that he was hungry. It was half past 5 and there was no time for ANita to return home to cook in peak hour traffic, so they could only quickly eat out after all the waiting around. When they got home, Anita had to quickly bath Jed and getting him ready to bed, but Reg began to complain feeling hot flushes. Next, they knew Reg had a temperature of 38.4 degrees, which means he needed to go to hospital.
There was no option, but for Reg to wait around this time until Anita had put Jed to bed. Soon they were at RNS Emergency Department. Reg was quickly sent to the inside with blood test, X-ray, and on drips of antibiotics. By 11pm, his temperature dropped back to normal, but he needed to admit into hospital for the haemotologist to see him. They are still trying to work out the kind of possible infection that Reg has, but meantime, they are also treating his blood clot. Thankfully the clot was only a minor one.
So Anita returned home exhausted after a whole day running around. She just pray that she could sleep well and get recharge, ready for another day of running around. She knew God has been with her for even though she is tending Jed and Reg at the same time, they both are good at waiting around for one another. She also knew Reg is at God's hand and only pray for his safe returning.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
6th Chemo treatment
Jed is finally well, and in good timing, it is now Reg's turn for his chemo treatment. Anita thanked God that they're just taking turn, so she can manage them one at a time.
After the usual preparation, blood test and stocking up the fridge, organising pick up of Jed from school, the Chan's household were as ready as they can be this morning. All went smoothly from drop off to school to busy traffic to hospital to parking. Reg adn Anita has decided to use the chapel in the hospital to pray before they went into the cancer unit. They both felt at peace and were ready to face the 6th treatment.
They were greeted with familiar nurses and noticed the colourful balloons around. It was one fo the nurses' birthday. Cheerful environment gave the place a lift, yet it was a very busy morning. The blood test result was good, and so they expected Reg will get hooked up very quickly. Unfortunately, after 20mins, the nurse was still having trouble to find the vein. Anita commented that the vein has decided to play hide and seek. Apparently it was a common thing that the more treatment, the harder it becomes to find the vein. Due to Reg's other swollen hand, the nurse had no choice but to work with one hand only. In the end, another senior nurse came to try. Thankfully, she did it after a few more attempt.
During this time, Reg's haemotologist flashed by, and broke the good news that the PET test result was good. They waited til mid day before the haemotologist sat down to check on Reg and explained the good news. Reg has been responding well to the treatment, the tumors are shrinking. Anita thought Reg may not need to do radiotherapy or reduced dose, but unfortunately, the good news means all as planned previously. Reg will receive two more treatment then radiotherapy everyday for three weeks. Yet they were just thankful and knew their Heavenly Father has heard everyone's prayer and indeed He has been so good to them.
Reg and Anita chatted with the patient's wife who sat next to them. Her husband was also a lymphoma patient, but this was his third remission. He was rather saddened that it kept returning. And REg and Anita were so lost of words how to comfort them, but only wished him the very best as they were leaving. Another lady suffered lymphoma and was in the exact same treatment as Reg. She lost all her hair, and had to lie on a bed. There was no opportunity to find out why, but both Anita and Reg knew Reg had been so blessed in all that he has been experiencing. They knew they can only thank their God for His goodness to them.
Jed was very happy that he could play with his friend after school. REturning home, he was very tired and managed to eat half of his dinner and he was happy to go to bed quickly.
AFter a long day, Reg and Anita looked forward for a day of rest tomorrow after Jed is at school. They continue to pray that the side-effect is under control and ask God to continue to heal Reg and they still look forward to the day when they shall recieve new bodies and be with Christ in Heaven!
After the usual preparation, blood test and stocking up the fridge, organising pick up of Jed from school, the Chan's household were as ready as they can be this morning. All went smoothly from drop off to school to busy traffic to hospital to parking. Reg adn Anita has decided to use the chapel in the hospital to pray before they went into the cancer unit. They both felt at peace and were ready to face the 6th treatment.
They were greeted with familiar nurses and noticed the colourful balloons around. It was one fo the nurses' birthday. Cheerful environment gave the place a lift, yet it was a very busy morning. The blood test result was good, and so they expected Reg will get hooked up very quickly. Unfortunately, after 20mins, the nurse was still having trouble to find the vein. Anita commented that the vein has decided to play hide and seek. Apparently it was a common thing that the more treatment, the harder it becomes to find the vein. Due to Reg's other swollen hand, the nurse had no choice but to work with one hand only. In the end, another senior nurse came to try. Thankfully, she did it after a few more attempt.
During this time, Reg's haemotologist flashed by, and broke the good news that the PET test result was good. They waited til mid day before the haemotologist sat down to check on Reg and explained the good news. Reg has been responding well to the treatment, the tumors are shrinking. Anita thought Reg may not need to do radiotherapy or reduced dose, but unfortunately, the good news means all as planned previously. Reg will receive two more treatment then radiotherapy everyday for three weeks. Yet they were just thankful and knew their Heavenly Father has heard everyone's prayer and indeed He has been so good to them.
Reg and Anita chatted with the patient's wife who sat next to them. Her husband was also a lymphoma patient, but this was his third remission. He was rather saddened that it kept returning. And REg and Anita were so lost of words how to comfort them, but only wished him the very best as they were leaving. Another lady suffered lymphoma and was in the exact same treatment as Reg. She lost all her hair, and had to lie on a bed. There was no opportunity to find out why, but both Anita and Reg knew Reg had been so blessed in all that he has been experiencing. They knew they can only thank their God for His goodness to them.
Jed was very happy that he could play with his friend after school. REturning home, he was very tired and managed to eat half of his dinner and he was happy to go to bed quickly.
AFter a long day, Reg and Anita looked forward for a day of rest tomorrow after Jed is at school. They continue to pray that the side-effect is under control and ask God to continue to heal Reg and they still look forward to the day when they shall recieve new bodies and be with Christ in Heaven!
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