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06/19/2007: "Searching for Stability"
Well, it was quite a Father’s Day when I truly thought I was a gonner. My blood-ox that should sit in the 90s had crashed into the 50s by the time I called for a 4am emergency room visit. I had woken at midnight with very little breath and feared that if I fell back asleep I would never wake up. This was my second call in the two mornings. At that point I was coughing every few breaths and noticed that it was blood.
The ER in San Ramon set me up on oxygen and settled me in for the night and admitted me into the hospital. Around 8am I had a room and various specialist were figuring out which combo of treatments would stabilize me. I have seen a doctor of internal medicine, an oncologist and my recent brain/spine surgeon. There has been a respiratory therapist, a nutritionist, and various other nurses. I am on a constant nose flow of oxygen which helps keep my blood-ox around 90+, a new steroid to help my lungs, antibiotics assuming I have pneumonia, and periodic albuteral tube to that I breath in to assist. This has helped me stop the coughing and get me breathing again. Since I had the major neck surgery just 8 days ago, I am still dealing with swelling and pain in that area. Norco-10 pain killer, an occasional valium and now they have introduced a diuretic to take some fluids off my lungs. From here it is some rest and probably home in a day or so.
Jeanette’s last post has caused a non-stop flow of visitors, cards, phone calls and blog comments. The love and support is coming in loud and clear and has probably lifted me out of what I thought was the grave. I thank all of you for following my battle being so wonderful. Know that I am well cared for. I am sure that Jeanette, at the end of her rope, can always use a hand with the kids as she tries to deal with all of this and having Nick and Alex home from school. Thanks to those that already at the house and who have offered.
My goals are to get through this stage and probably look at chemo as my lungs are really full of tumors. Hopefully I can have some semblance of a summer with the family and see how it goes. I love all of you and have pulled strength from your love.
Replies: 14 Comments
on Wednesday, June 20th, JUDY said
It's wonderful to hear you are doing better today. I am a woman of great faith and I believe that GOD does answer prayers so I will continue to pray for you and Jeanette and the kids. GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!
on Wednesday, June 20th, Debra G said
Doug,
I have started and stopped more than a couple of times, trying to find the right words to say. I really don't know what to say except to stay strong! Please know that there are so many people who are praying for you, thinking of you, and sending so much love your way. I pray for you, Jeanette, Nick and Alex every day. Thank you for helping me become a better person, and to truly appreciate and value all my gifts in life.
Love,
Deb
on Wednesday, June 20th, Doreen said
You have made my day. I come in each morning and you are the first pesrson I want to hear from. Hope you know that your still one of the team and we wouldn't be the same without you so it is a good thing you are doing better. Feel stronger soon.
on Wednesday, June 20th, Woody and Ingrid said
Hallelujah, Bud! Glad to hear the positive fighter in you coming out strong again!
"You're the fighter you've got the fire
The spirit of a warrior, the champion's heart
You fight for your life because the fighter never quits
You make the most of the hand you're dealt
Because the quitter never wins
No!"
-Dropkick Murphys "Warrior's Code"
Lots of love, Ingrid and Woody
on Tuesday, June 19th, Mia said
I am so glad to see a post from you! (No offense Jeanette!) I'm thrilled you're feeling better. You've been constantly in my thoughts the last few days.
Much love.
on Tuesday, June 19th, Shannon Greene said
Dear Doug,
It is so good to hear your voice!Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us. I am continuing to hold you and your family up into my consciousness whenever I can. The Greenes send their loud and strident voices up in support of you!
Take care, really, take care.
Shannon
on Tuesday, June 19th, Christina Sweet said
Rock I know that you have resisted Chemo but if it will keep you with us longer you should do it. There is a chair in my dinning room with your name on it and I want to see you sitting in it this Xmas and next Xmas and the Xmas after that.
Has Ken told you I got a golden retriever Chow Chow mix? Her name is Ginger she is a year old lots of energy. If you think Nick would enjoy playing with her I could bring her around for a few hours.
Love to you and Jeanette!
Christina
on Tuesday, June 19th, Brad said
Doug,
I am so happy to hear you are feeling better and doing better. Ever since we spoke you have been in my thoughts and prayers along with your family. I saw Jeanette Fathers Day Morning hoping to see you and wish you a Happy Fathers Day. That is when she told me the news and I had tears in my eyes. I went home and cried and told my family about you and how you were doing. I am so thankful that you fought this and your encouragement with always be with me. I will keep checking in..
on Tuesday, June 19th, pam said
Hi Doug,
So Happy to hear you are feeling better, some people may call you "Rock" but I rather call you "Superman" 
on Tuesday, June 19th, Sean said
Now we're talking. This sounds much better, Doug. I'm so glad to hear you already planning on your next stage of battle. Keep fighting this. We still believe you can beat it.
Thanks for keeping us updated. We're thinking of you all the time.
on Tuesday, June 19th, Ginnie Herleman said
We are all glad to hear you are feeling better. Sping 2005 I had pneumonia and this winter I had a sudden, severe asthma attack. Steroid drugs and albuteral can sure work wonders. I found the pneumonia took a lot of rest, rest and more rest. Don't fight the medical staff, when they tell you to take it easy. Lots of love from all of us.
on Tuesday, June 19th, Laura Griffin said
Hi Doug...
I'm so glad you are feeling better.... You are such a fighter I knew you wouldn't give up. You are amazing....
Dave wanted me to tell you to hang in there and stay strong. Both Dave and I have you in our prayers....
on Tuesday, June 19th, sando said
I am constantly amazed and inspired by your strength and am so glad to see & hear that hope back in you!
on Tuesday, June 19th, Jay said
Glad to hear you're feeling better. Maybe you can get in a couple of days at Dorrington this summer.
