#79511 08-28-2008 05:43 AM | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | OP  Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | Two years ago today I walked out of that damn radiation room with my mask in hand so today marks a major milestone in my recovery. I have talked to; posted to and read about many in the last 2 years that weren't as lucky as I am and it's quite humbling to say the least. My goal since Brian made me aware of this site is to use my experience to make everyone's cancer experience a little easier and to increase HPV awareness.
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2008 Posts: 716 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2008 Posts: 716 | David,
Congratulations on your two year anniversary! And many many more to come! Keep the great work in progress going.
7-16-08 age 37@Dx, T3N0M0 SCC 4.778cm tumor, left side of oral tongue, non smoker, casual drinker, I am the 4th in my family to have H&N cancer
8-13-08 left neck dissection and 40% of tongue removed, submandibular salivary gland & 14 nodes clean, no chemo, IMRTx35
11-4-08 Recovering & feeling better
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2007 Posts: 79 Senior Member (75+ posts) | | Senior Member (75+ posts)
Joined: Sep 2007 Posts: 79 | David,
Congratulations on passing the milestone. You are a big asset to everyone on this board.
Jean
* Root for Joe *
Sister of Joe (43, non-smoker/chewer; occ. drinker). Mouth problem 3/07. Diag with Stage I 6/07. Diag with Stage IV 9/07. In EPOC at Univ of Chicago. Cisplatin/cetuximab 1/wk x 8. Then, IMRT 5x/wk x 7 and weekly chemo. Done 12/21/07. Looks good as of 4/08, 7/08, 8/08, 1/09.
| | | | | Joined: Jan 2008 Posts: 706 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Jan 2008 Posts: 706 | You are truly an inspiration. Your positive attitude and willingness to help others is wonderful. Keep up the good work!
Sue
cg to husband, 48 Stage 1V head and neck SCC. First surgery 9/07. Radiation and several rounds of chemo followed. Mets to chest and lungs. "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain." Went home to God on February 22, 2009.
| | | | | Joined: Mar 2008 Posts: 3,082 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Mar 2008 Posts: 3,082 | YEA! And also many appreciate your advocacy for VHC. It's funny that in cleaning up last year's cancer computer print outs, I found some pages with VHC recipies that had a picture of you and your lovely wife with a caption of read David's story in the center square. I didn't know about OCF then
Very glad that you can now proclaim yourself a CO-SURVIVOR.
I still appreciate that first PM after I stepped on the PEG land mine. Keep on trucking (or biking as the case may be)
tom
65 yr Old Frack
Stage IV BOT T3N2M0 HPV 16+
2007:72GY IMRT(40) 8 ERBITUX No PEG
2008:CANCER BACK Salvage Surgery
25GY-CyberKnife(5) 3 Carboplatin
Apaghia /G button
2012: CANCER BACK -left tonsilar fossa
40GY-CyberKnife(5) 3 Carboplatin
Passed away 4-29-13
| | | | | Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 5,260 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 5,260 | Congrats David old buddy. Take the wife out to celebrate. 2 years only happens 1 time.
Since posting this. UPMC, Pittsburgh, Oct 2011 until Jan. I averaged about 2 to 3 surgeries a week there. w Can't have jaw made as bone is deteroriating steaily that is left in jaw. Mersa is to blame. Feeding tube . Had trach for 4mos. Got it out April.
--- Passed away 5/14/14, will be greatly missed by everyone here
| | | | | Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | David, I am so happy for you and happy that you have become one of the elite 5 highest posters on this forum. Your advocacy for oral cancer awareness, the HPV connection, VHC nutrition and the time you spend helping people such as Martha must leave very little time for you to do accounting. I marvel at your devotion to our cause. As far as Jim's suggestion about taking your wife out to dinner is concerned, based on another thread, I think she should take you out to dinner as it appears that you have absolutely no control of you finances. BTW, do you eat at any place other than her restaurant? Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
| | | | | Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 | Great job David!!!! You have good reason to be proud and to celebrate. Congrats on hitting the 2 year mark 
ChristineSCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44 2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07 -65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr Clear PET 1/08 4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I surg 4/16/08 clr marg 215 HBO dives 3/09 teeth out, trismus 7/2/09 recur, Stg IV 8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy 3wks medicly inducd coma 2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit PICC line IV antibx 8 mo 10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg OC 3x in 3 years very happy to be alive | | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | Boy you guys are tough on the CPA and yes I do on a rare occasion eat lunch somewhere else but only if I must. I am also a Certified Professional Food Manager in Florida and I teach classes on safe food handling, preparation, etc and I know what can happen to people that dine in a restaurant that is less than 100% diligent in staying on top of their employees so I prefer to stick with my wife's restaurant since I know what steps we take to make sure our food is safely received, prepared and stored. I give all new employees a mandatory 2 hour class on food safety and personal hygiene and I make them pass a 50 question test before they can work a shift and that includes bus people. Besides my wife's food is the BEST in the World.
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | I wish it was mandatory for all restaurants to do what you do, David.
If I ever find myself in Gulfport, I know where I'm going for lunch.
BTW, CPA's are among some of my best friends. And I make fun of them, too.
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
| | | | | Joined: Feb 2005 Posts: 2,019 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Feb 2005 Posts: 2,019 | Congratulations, David! Two years is a big milestone for oral cancer survivors and you have done a lot in that two uears to help others here!
Nelie
SCC(T2N0M0) part.glossectomy & neck dissect 2/9/05 & 2/25/05.33 IMRT(66 Gy),2 Cisplatin ended 06/03/05.Stage I breast cancer treated 2/05-11/05.Surgery to remove esophageal stricture 07/06, still having dilatations to keep esophagus open.Dysphagia. "When you're going through hell, keep going"
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 493 Platinum Member (300+ posts) | | Platinum Member (300+ posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 493 | Congrats David,
I don't read or post nearly as much as I used to, but when I come here I always look for you and what you've been posting.
You are a good man and have helped me and many others here, I pray you have many more years.
Take Care
Tim
Tim Stoj
60 yr old. Dx Jun 06 with BOT Stage IV. Neck dissesction on 19 Jun 06. Started Tx on 21 Aug 06/completed 33 IMRTs and 3 CT (2 Cisplat & 1 Carboplat) on 5 Oct 06.
| | | | | Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 939 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 939 | David, As fellow Moffitteers, Bill and I are so happy that you have made the two year mark. I know that you are grateful for the expertise of your doctors, the care of your wife, and the son-of-a-gun stubborness you possess that got you to this point. Congrats! Deb (M-O-F..F-I-T..T-E-E-R-S) 
Deb..caregiver to husband, age 63 at diagnosis, former smoker who quit in 1997.
DIAGNOSIS: 6/26/07 SCC right tonsil/BOT T4N0M0
TREATMENT START: 8/9/07 cisplatin/taxol X 7..IMRT twice daily X 31.5.
TREATMENT END: 10/1/07
PEG OUT: 1/08
PORT OUT: 4/09
FOLLOWUP: Now only annual exams. ALL CLEAR!
Passed away 1/7/17 RIP Bill
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | Always comforting to read your remarks Jerry.
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 580 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 580 | My best wishes to you David. Congrats!
You ever thought of branching out from restaurants to backyard dental and medical offices? Hehe.
We all know the truth if you ate anywhere else if the food didn't kill you she would. LOL
All the best and I welcome you to the ranks of survivor. (it seemed a lot more exciting on the match book cover.)
Cheers,
Mike
Dentist since 1995, 12 year Cancer Survivor, Father, Husband, Thankful to so many who supported me on my journey so far, and more than happy to comfort a friend.
Live, Laugh, Love & Learn.
| | | | | Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 1,940 "OCF across the pond" Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) | | "OCF across the pond" Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 1,940 | Hey David
i am a bit late catching up on this post,but congratulations nevertheless.It is nearly two years since Rob was diagnosed,and it seems like yesterday,i bet your two years seems like longer
BTW when you are using american abbreviations remember us poor old brits, i have a list written out of what CPA could stand for,but i am sure you are none of those!!!!!lol
love liz
Liz in the UK
Husband Robin aged 44 years Dx 8th Dec 2006 poorly differentiated SCC tongue with met to neck T1N2cM0 Surgery and Radiation.Finished TX April 2007
Recurrence June/07 died July 29th/07.
Never take your eye off the ball, it may just smack you in the mouth.
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | Liz,
It stand for Certified Public Accountant. Similar to the UK and Canadian Chartered Accountant. In the U.S. we have to first get a Masters with a concentration in Accounting and Tax and then have to pass a 3 day national examination. Some States also require a 2 year "internship" as well. Then there's the 40 hours of yearly CPE (Continuing Professional Education).
My wife though calls it "Constant Pain in the Ass". I bet that made your list as well.
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | Mike,
I keep a monitor on in my office full time with 4 camera views of the restaurant. Obviously I can't stare at it all day but if I do see an employee doing something wrong including improper personal hygiene, I will call them up and correct them immediately. A statistic I learned many years ago and I use in every class taught is that 95% of ALL FOOD BORNE ILLNESSES IN A RESTAURANT COMES FROM UNCLEAN HANDS. Therefore my goal is to get all employees in the habit of washing their hands EVERYTIME they touch something different. I don't condone gloves as it too often gives an employee the feeling of immunity to bacteria. Talk about a full time job!
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 1,301 "OCF Down Under" Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) | | "OCF Down Under" Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 1,301 | David,
In Australia CPA stands for Certified Practising Accountant
History Leukoplakia bx 8/2006 SCC floor mouth T3N0M0- Verrucous Carcinoma.
14 hour 0p SCC-Right ND/excision/marginal mandibulectomy 9/2006, 4 teeth removed, flap from wrist, trach-ng 6 days- no chemo/rad.
6 ops and debulking (flap/tongue join) + bx's 2006-2012.
bx Jan 2012 Hyperkeratosis-Epithelial Dysplasia
24cm GIST tumour removed 8/2013. Indefinite Oral Chemo.
1/31/16 passed away peacefully surrounded by family
| | | | | Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | David,
Exactly where during all of the studies to become a CPA, do you learn how to use an abacus?
BTW, I have no idea where I would be a tax time without my trusted CPAs. Unfortunately, dentistry is a business too and we don't learn any of that stuff in dental school.
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | Jerry,
When I took the CPA exam in 1972 we were allowed to use our trusted slide rules. If we did we had to write SLIDE RULE at the top of the first page so the graders would give us a break if our answer was not exact.
My worst clients in every way imaginable are my doctors. They come out of school trained to do their profession but ill equipped to manage their practice. They are also usually to proud and/or cheap to admit that they need professional help so they end up wasting a lot of their time making costly mistakes when they could have concentrated their energy doing what they were trained to do. I have seen far to many turn their business decisions over to unlicensed accountants and by the time they reluctantly seek out a CPA, they have wasted tons of money. Even then they still complain every time they get a bill correcting years of poor advice. Imagine someone going to their next door neighbor to have their teeth cleaned or a lump in their breast!
IMO the only thing they should teach doctors in med school is that when you are thinking about opening a practice ENGAGE A CPA.
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 |
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 1,301 "OCF Down Under" Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) | | "OCF Down Under" Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 1,301 | [quote=Gabe]David, In Australia CPA stands for Certified Practising Accountant [/quote] My wife though calls it "Constant Pain in the Ass".  I still like your wife�s interpretation ! Gabriele
History Leukoplakia bx 8/2006 SCC floor mouth T3N0M0- Verrucous Carcinoma.
14 hour 0p SCC-Right ND/excision/marginal mandibulectomy 9/2006, 4 teeth removed, flap from wrist, trach-ng 6 days- no chemo/rad.
6 ops and debulking (flap/tongue join) + bx's 2006-2012.
bx Jan 2012 Hyperkeratosis-Epithelial Dysplasia
24cm GIST tumour removed 8/2013. Indefinite Oral Chemo.
1/31/16 passed away peacefully surrounded by family
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 1,301 "OCF Down Under" Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) | | "OCF Down Under" Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 1,301 | Yeah..I have now made gold ..100 posts 
History Leukoplakia bx 8/2006 SCC floor mouth T3N0M0- Verrucous Carcinoma.
14 hour 0p SCC-Right ND/excision/marginal mandibulectomy 9/2006, 4 teeth removed, flap from wrist, trach-ng 6 days- no chemo/rad.
6 ops and debulking (flap/tongue join) + bx's 2006-2012.
bx Jan 2012 Hyperkeratosis-Epithelial Dysplasia
24cm GIST tumour removed 8/2013. Indefinite Oral Chemo.
1/31/16 passed away peacefully surrounded by family
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | Next goal is 500 so get to it!!
CPA
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,128 Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) | | Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,128 | DAvid, I am reminded of a story one of my colleagues (in a former life when I was a Corporate Cubicle Convict, exactly like Dilbert) told about his wife's job.
She was an RN in a Doc's office and the bookkeeper dressed really well, bought a new car every other year and would take a nice cruise every year; her husband had a so-so blue collar job. You guessed it, she had been skimming lots of cash from the office and had been doing it for quite a while. I forget how it was discovered, but it was not official like an IRS audit.
She threw herself on the Doc's mercy and returned a couple of thousand that she hadn't spent yet. The Doc forgave her, didn't fire her and treated the returned money as a sort of 'windfall' by throwing an office BBQ/picnic... Duh!
The Docs have indeed earned their reputations as less than financially astute (Neck in neck with airline pilots!).
Age 67 1/2
Ventral Tongue SCC T2N0M0G1 10/05
Anterior Tongue SCC T2N0M0G2 6/08
Base of Tongue SCC T2N0M0G2 12/08
Three partial glossectomy (10/05,11/05,6/08), PEG, 37 XRT 66.6 Gy 1/06
Neck dissection, trach, PEG & forearm free flap (6/08)
Total glossectomy, trach, PEG & thigh free flap (12/08)
On August 21, 2010 at 9:20 am, Pete went off to play with the ratties in the sky.
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | OK because of all your suspicions I put my wife through a pretty rough interrogation. I was almost to the point of taking the lamp shade off for the visual effect. I found her answers to be frank and factual even though the half smile glued on her face was a little disconcerting. As she drove away in her fairly new steel blue Mercedes 350 I have decided to drop further inquiries. Even the stand up sign on her desk which says "She who dies with the most shoes WINS!!" or the fact that she and my female Office Manager always rush to intercept the UPS delivery woman doesn't sway me from my decision.
As someone very wise once said...Ignorance is bliss.
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,128 Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) | | Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,128 | Well, at least you tried...
Age 67 1/2
Ventral Tongue SCC T2N0M0G1 10/05
Anterior Tongue SCC T2N0M0G2 6/08
Base of Tongue SCC T2N0M0G2 12/08
Three partial glossectomy (10/05,11/05,6/08), PEG, 37 XRT 66.6 Gy 1/06
Neck dissection, trach, PEG & forearm free flap (6/08)
Total glossectomy, trach, PEG & thigh free flap (12/08)
On August 21, 2010 at 9:20 am, Pete went off to play with the ratties in the sky.
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 580 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2007 Posts: 580 | David,
Your attention to cleanliness still amazes me and I am impressed. My wife is a shoe aficianado and her motto basically is, "posession is nine tenths of the law..try and make me return them!"
All the best.
Mike
Dentist since 1995, 12 year Cancer Survivor, Father, Husband, Thankful to so many who supported me on my journey so far, and more than happy to comfort a friend.
Live, Laugh, Love & Learn.
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | Mike,
After an employee washes their hands I just tell them to stand with their hands in the air and don't touch ANYTHING. Most know I'm kidding but it is frightful to know how quickly contaminated their "clean" hands can become just by doing normal activities. They have a hard time understanding that they can't open a door; brush their hair; touch their clothing; reach into their purse; open a cooler or display case, etc without having to wash their hands again or change their gloves before they contact ready to eat food. That's just the Front of the restaurant. Now go into the kitchen and see all the potential for cross contamination!! Talk about a full time job!!
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | David,
I think I may never eat in a restaurant again. Just kidding, but I did stop asking for lemon in my drinks. I watch way too much TV.
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
| | | | | Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 |
David
Sounds like you do an excellent job keeping the employees on their toes and in line with the health dept regs. Its not easy making some people learn these tips and always practice them. I am a former certified restaurant manager. Sure wasnt an easy job, but I loved the customers and most of the workers were great.
Jerry
Lemons are bad. But worse are the peanuts, popcorn, chips or pretzels that bars put out. Just think of how many hands touch them after using the rest room. EEEWWWWW!!!!!
ChristineSCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44 2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07 -65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr Clear PET 1/08 4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I surg 4/16/08 clr marg 215 HBO dives 3/09 teeth out, trismus 7/2/09 recur, Stg IV 8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy 3wks medicly inducd coma 2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit PICC line IV antibx 8 mo 10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg OC 3x in 3 years very happy to be alive | | | | | Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | Never eat those, either.
Speaking of restaurants...those signs that say "Employees Must Wash Their Hands" really make me laugh. Boy, if they don't know that already, do you think a sign will get them to do it? I think it would be better to change it to say "customers" as studies have shown that there are a large percentage of people that don't wash before leaving the restroom and they aren't even employees. I believe it, because I see it.
For the women out there, I think I also read that this is a more common problem in the men's room.
I'm still looking for the perfect bathroom that has all of the following: an automatic flushing system, motion activated soap dispenser and water spigot, as well as no exit door or an automatic one. What's the use of washing if you have to touch all those other things?
How did I get on this subject anyway?
It's your fault, Christine.
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
| | | | | Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 |
LOL
Thats exactly why I carry hand sanitizer in my purse and use it like crazy when I go out in public.
ChristineSCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44 2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07 -65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr Clear PET 1/08 4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I surg 4/16/08 clr marg 215 HBO dives 3/09 teeth out, trismus 7/2/09 recur, Stg IV 8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy 3wks medicly inducd coma 2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit PICC line IV antibx 8 mo 10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg OC 3x in 3 years very happy to be alive | | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | I am seeing more larger restaurants that can afford to install an automatic timed reminder bell that goes off in preset minutes, like 10, that prompt all kitchen employees to stop and wash their hands. Some have recorders in the bathroom that employees must key in their assigned number at the sink and it records the frequency and duration of each time they wash their hands during their shift. Certainly not fool proof but a step in the right direction if one can afford to pass that onto to menu. Believe it or not those Hand Washing signs do work and are better than nothing as most restaurant employees have the attention span of a puppy. Not the brains mind you, just the attention span. LOL
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,128 Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) | | Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,128 | I noticed that the med center at UofW had signs and cleaning stations all over the place and people, esp employees, were using them. Even a question in the after-service survey. Be interesting to see some before-after stats on effectiveness.
Age 67 1/2
Ventral Tongue SCC T2N0M0G1 10/05
Anterior Tongue SCC T2N0M0G2 6/08
Base of Tongue SCC T2N0M0G2 12/08
Three partial glossectomy (10/05,11/05,6/08), PEG, 37 XRT 66.6 Gy 1/06
Neck dissection, trach, PEG & forearm free flap (6/08)
Total glossectomy, trach, PEG & thigh free flap (12/08)
On August 21, 2010 at 9:20 am, Pete went off to play with the ratties in the sky.
| | | | | Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | OP Senior Patient Advocate Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 8,311 | I have sanitizing stations, not counting the 4 restrooms, both upstairs and downstairs and 2 of them are accessible to the public.
David
Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2008 Posts: 716 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2008 Posts: 716 | Okay, I'm not even sure if I should tell this or not...But I will...Here goes, brace yourselves...
Years ago, when I was in college I worked for this Drug Emporium in Houston, Texas. I walked into the restroom and turned the corner...BAM!!! There he was...right in front of me! Standing towards me but in front of the wash area...I looked at him and he looked at me...I can remember him like yesterday: about 6 feet tall, medium build, black hair, black mustache, about 35 years old, white shirt, black pants, black sandals...He just kept on doing his business. After a pause that felt like an eternity, I turned around and left the restroom. Do you know what he was doing? He was washing his ass out in the sink!!!
Needless to say...to this very day...When I wash my hands in a public bathroom I grab some paper towels, shut off the water with paper in hand, grab the door and leave dropping the paper towel in the nearest waste bucket. Sometimes, I'm lucky enough to be able to reach the trash in the bathroom while I hold the door open with my foot...But lately more and more public restrooms only have hand blowers, no paper towels...That's okay with a push door...but a door that pulls..You have to wait until someone opens the door and then slide out...The things that people do. Maybe public restrooms should have "No ass washing allowed" signs above the sinks.
7-16-08 age 37@Dx, T3N0M0 SCC 4.778cm tumor, left side of oral tongue, non smoker, casual drinker, I am the 4th in my family to have H&N cancer
8-13-08 left neck dissection and 40% of tongue removed, submandibular salivary gland & 14 nodes clean, no chemo, IMRTx35
11-4-08 Recovering & feeling better
| | | | | Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 939 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 939 | Oh my goodness Ray, you have just sent some of our fellow OCD people over the edge. The mental image is just too much!
I can see how you have been permanently "scarred."
I am waiting as well for all bathrooms to have automatic water, soap and towel dispensers....it seems they usually have just one of these items.
Deb
Deb..caregiver to husband, age 63 at diagnosis, former smoker who quit in 1997.
DIAGNOSIS: 6/26/07 SCC right tonsil/BOT T4N0M0
TREATMENT START: 8/9/07 cisplatin/taxol X 7..IMRT twice daily X 31.5.
TREATMENT END: 10/1/07
PEG OUT: 1/08
PORT OUT: 4/09
FOLLOWUP: Now only annual exams. ALL CLEAR!
Passed away 1/7/17 RIP Bill
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2008 Posts: 716 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2008 Posts: 716 | Deb,
That's what I'm waiting for...Everything automatic...sensor flush toilets, sinks, blow dryers...and no doors.
I suppose that guy I saw in Houston is waiting for a bathtub...or a is it a bouday?
7-16-08 age 37@Dx, T3N0M0 SCC 4.778cm tumor, left side of oral tongue, non smoker, casual drinker, I am the 4th in my family to have H&N cancer
8-13-08 left neck dissection and 40% of tongue removed, submandibular salivary gland & 14 nodes clean, no chemo, IMRTx35
11-4-08 Recovering & feeling better
| | | | | Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,128 Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) | | Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,128 |
Age 67 1/2
Ventral Tongue SCC T2N0M0G1 10/05
Anterior Tongue SCC T2N0M0G2 6/08
Base of Tongue SCC T2N0M0G2 12/08
Three partial glossectomy (10/05,11/05,6/08), PEG, 37 XRT 66.6 Gy 1/06
Neck dissection, trach, PEG & forearm free flap (6/08)
Total glossectomy, trach, PEG & thigh free flap (12/08)
On August 21, 2010 at 9:20 am, Pete went off to play with the ratties in the sky.
| | | | | Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | Ray,
I'm still laughing trying to picture that scene. I'm sure nothing like that could ever happen in our great state of Pennsylvania.
Come to think of it, the last time I was in Allentown, I noticed a guy waiting for someone to enter the bathroom so he could leave. Could have been you.
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
| | | | | Joined: Aug 2008 Posts: 716 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Aug 2008 Posts: 716 | Jerry,
Who knows? It could have been me or a friend I told. I assume I scarred a few people with that story!
Here's another: Names have been changed
I'm working with this other guy because it's a two man job. He's older nearing retirement and for some reason dresses like Freddy Krueger from the "Nightmare on Elm Street" movies, i.e., he would wear stripped shirts and Dickie's. Well, we get done with the job and decide to take a break at one of our central offices. We go to the break room and sit down to read the paper. Guy gets up and says, "I'm goin' to the bathroom" and I'm like, "Okay, I'll wait here...". It was kind of stupid because the one man restroom was within the break room...Heck I was sitting at the table facing the door. He didn't have to broadcast it...but did. Guy is doing his business and it's obvious what's going on. Then I hear Guys beeper go off (it was a time before cell phones). A very short time later I hear a flush and out comes Guy with beeper in hand. Guy looks at me and says, "It's the Boss..." and he leaves to make the call. I get up and look at the sink...it's bone DRY...no water...no drips...nada...bone dry. I'm thinking damn...Guy doesn't wash his hands...Worse! Guy brings in cookies every week!! I sit down and shortly afterwards Guy comes back and says, "Ray, it's time I finished what I started..". Guy goes to the bathroom and resumes where he left off. I stare at the door...Guy comes out and says, "We better get goin'.." I tell guy, "Okay, I'll be there in a minute..". I go to the bathroom and yes...just as I suspected the sink is still DRY...Dry...Dry...not a drip of water. I can't help but think about the cookies...OMG...Guy brings in cookies for the whole crew. Guy doesn't wash his hands! Why?
The very next morning I tell one of my best buddies (Carl) the story. I'm like remember, "DON'T EAT THE COOKIES!!". Needless to say about 18 of us are sitting in the room waiting for our jobs and here comes Guy. He's so happy and proud walking around in his Freddy Krueger outfit with a bag full of cookies for the room. Guy is like dig in boys....Carl and I just look at each other...Someone else says, "Hey Guy, pretty good do you make them or what?" Guy responds, "No my wife makes the cookies..." Carl and I look at each other with a sigh of relief...Then guy says, "Yea, my wife makes the cookies...but I mix the dough..."
7-16-08 age 37@Dx, T3N0M0 SCC 4.778cm tumor, left side of oral tongue, non smoker, casual drinker, I am the 4th in my family to have H&N cancer
8-13-08 left neck dissection and 40% of tongue removed, submandibular salivary gland & 14 nodes clean, no chemo, IMRTx35
11-4-08 Recovering & feeling better
| | | | | Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 939 "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) | | "Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts)
Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 939 | Bidet... but perhaps until then he should just carry a pack of baby wipes????
Deb
Last edited by debandbill; 09-10-2008 11:44 AM.
Deb..caregiver to husband, age 63 at diagnosis, former smoker who quit in 1997.
DIAGNOSIS: 6/26/07 SCC right tonsil/BOT T4N0M0
TREATMENT START: 8/9/07 cisplatin/taxol X 7..IMRT twice daily X 31.5.
TREATMENT END: 10/1/07
PEG OUT: 1/08
PORT OUT: 4/09
FOLLOWUP: Now only annual exams. ALL CLEAR!
Passed away 1/7/17 RIP Bill
| | | | | Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) | | Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | Ray,
I think I know the another "GUY". Now I can't eat homemade cookies any more...thanks.
Are you with Verizon Communications ot Verizon Wireless?
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
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