Hi All,
I have been gone for awhile and so wanted to report on our progress. My husband's first PET scan was totally clear. He is gaining back his taste although it is different. He used to be a stir fry guy and now all he wants is steak and potatoes, pasta, fish and other meat. I bought a slow cooker and so can make special chicken dishes, pork roasts and other soft dishes with gravies. He is even able to eat sandwiches and pizza again. He does not take naps any longer and that makes him happy. He is back to work and that makes him happy. The most lasting effect is dry mouth. He has to use biotene products all day long, gum, spray and special toothpaste. He does have occasional swelling in his face: lymphedema. We did figure out how to massage his face so that the swelling goes down.
He is seeing his docs every 6 weeks for the first two years. We hope that he will remain clear. They told us that if he stays clear for two years that it is a very good sign. I will have to spend some time reading other posts. I have been very busy with work.
I am going to see a counselor as I do feel as if I have some post traumatic issues that I am dealing with. I have some fears that I do not express to him since he needs to stay positive.

Happy Holidays to everyone,
Ellen

Welcome back Ellen and that's great news about your husband.

I pretty much craved the same foods about a month post Tx, especially salads. Chicken tends to be on the dry side and I always have difficulty with it. It has to be really moist or cooked in a creamy sauce.

I too saw my team every 6 weeks for the first 2 years.

That's excellent that you are taking care of yourself. Caregiving is very hard. My wife had a complete meltdown after I was done with treatment.

So glad you both are doing well happy holidays! And remember to be kind to yourself.

Ellen, sorry to read about your own psychological problems and I hope you can get help with them. But mainly I'm delighted that your husband is through the worst and had a clear PET. Sounds to me that you can finally begin your new life together. We all know how tough it is to get through this stuff, but having you there was and is as important as any of the medical stuff, IMO.

I hope you have a wonderful holiday and bright new year.

Nice to see you posting Ellen. Even nicer to see how well your husband is doing with his recovery. Many caregivers find themselves needing a little aid to return back to their old lives. Best wishes to you both!

Happy Holidays!!!

So glad you are back with us, Ellen - and that your husband is doing well. You've both been on quite a ride, but things are definitely looking up. It's good that you are taking care of you, too. Sometimes caregivers need a caregiver to get back to some kind of "new normal".

Hi, Ellen
glad to hear from you! Great news about your husband's scan!

I think that seeing a counselor is a fine idea - they will be able to help you manage the stress. I've only recently been able to feel good - kind of a weird feeling. Take care and happy holidays to both of you.

Happy Holidays to all of you. It feels good to be back with all of you who were so supportive during our difficult time. Things are certainly improving here although the new normal is something that takes time to get accustomed to. The holidays have been wonderful so far. All of our boys are home and my hubby is able to enjoy them since he has a bit more energy. I have been enjoying the time off from the university and just hangin around in sweat pants until noon. What a gift. I wish all of you the very best in the New Year. You are all so special. I will go look at some other posts and see if I can be supportive of some others as they travel this difficult path.

Best to all of you my friends.

Ellen

Hey HEY EB!!!

Good to see you on here sista! So good to hear things seem to be improving for you and may I say...bravo for feeling the urge to help others on this crazy path. I know helping others has been important in my own healing process and makes me feel good about myself.

Good on ya girl!


Eric!