...the lymphoma that has been in "quiet" phase has now roared to "loud"....reoccurance of symptoms not unexpected for this type.... but so remarkably quickly and dramatically that...umm...I'm scared.

I ask for your thoughts for tomorrow morning's  testing...life for me might have just changed equally dramatically. I've felt your wind beneath my wings for the past several years now...it's gonna be a hard walk into the clinic...I need help with the weight...

Best,

Jon

Damnit Jon.... :'( Every positive vibe and all the love we have have, coming your way. Just one more beast you need to kick ass on. [smiley=hug.gif]

Joe

Good thoughts heading your way from this corner of the world too. You'll have strength you never realised from being able to battle the CH beast that you'll bring to fight this one.

Always.

ALWAYS.

Anybody who can survive CH's can handle ANYTHING life throws at them. 

You are a fighter and will succeed! ;)

-Gregg in Las Vegas

I will be praying for you Jon.

As will I.................

Jon, best wishes and prayers from our home to your's.

I too will be thinking of and praying for you, Jon.

Kick some ass Jon!

You're in our thoughts and prayers.....always!

Thinking and praying for you Jon.

Lifting you up as high as I can, Jon.  [smiley=heart.gif] [smiley=hug.gif]

THANK YOU ALL SO VERY MUCH!...I was actually pretty calm walking in today...it's that wind thing doncha know?  ;)

..anyway...they found some ok stuff....some bad stuff...and some "well, we don't know" stuff...so I "get" to go back next week for scans and more tests...golly, I always feels so good when these tests are over...even if they don't do nothin'...now the waitin' is on again...

Oddly, the oncologist kept trying some way somehow to relate this crap to the CH cycle i'm in..."well the nodes on this side are swollen, which side did you say the headaches happen?" "do you really take that much verapamil?" "did your neuro check out the lymph nodes?", "what did the head scans show"? (btw, never had any, classic ch), etc...I finally said, Doc, I have had these for 30 yrs, I know exactly what I need, when I need it, and how much...it AINT connected. Makes me worry that he's grasping at straws......will know more in a couple of weeks......

Best,

Jon

Prayers continue Jon.

Sounds to me like your Dr is just trying to be thorough.  No one likes to believe this much bad luck can get dumped on one very good individual.

Hang tough clusterbrother...

-Dennis-

...oh absolutely Dennis...and I didn't mean to imply any lack of confidence in this Doc...he is reknowned in the field...sees limited patients since he is now working mostly for a biotech firm (researching Hodgkins lymphoma)...and I initially brought up the verapamil

I'll make it or not with him...just that this time he seemed focused on the CH...which he has never paid mind to before...and I have near absolute doubt that there is any relation between the two conditions (with the exception...possibly.... of immune/allergy function...gut feel that' there's SOMETHING there with CH, and defintely immune with lymphoma)

'tis a frustrating, incurable type of lymphoma...and I would suppose it must be frustrating for him too...would expect nothing less than complete thoroughness from him...

Best,

Jon

I just read this Jon.  Please know that every vibe and positive energy I got to spare is with you.  If you would, please, find a small stone that would make you think of me, and tuck it in your pocket every day.  When you need a little extra vibeage, reach in and grasp it, and feel the energy. 

Love you!

Lots of prayers going up from my house to yours.

I'm lighting my prayer candle for you Jon.  The power of our prayers has had remarkable reults for people over the years here.

Praying for you, my friend, as always, but now with a little more impetus.  Wish I could be there for you, to help carry that load, but I'll do all I can from a distance.  You are loved!

Jerry

...today....I did something....that I NEVER thought...I would EVER do...I applied for disability (and if you're wondering where my head is...check out all the "I's"....sheesh...)

...it's something everyone expected...except ME...and my only consolation is that it WASN'T the evil bastard ch that did it...it was the "other" evil bastards...they did what ch will NEVER do...made me quit....

...been thinking about and resisting with every fiber in my being  for a year now..last Friday, I was rude and obnoxious to my Boss..a man with a HUGE heart.... totally supportive and undeserving of anything less than the utmost respect...that's when I knew......I'm tired...worn down...wore out...it's time.....

...it's been 30 years at this company...there is apparently nothing they would not do for me...as was made plainly evident...they just cared about me...ya put your heart and guts into a career...and what goes around comes around..... doncha know.....I DO!

and GOLLY...how much more lucky can a fella be???...I have THREE families...my own... YOU all...and my beloved coworkers and company...it has been quite a ride indeed....didn't cry when I told them...thought I would...expect it will happen...heck...maybe now.....

...please pardon...but I expect to be offline for a bit...mourning a life gone by....

...and...the paperwork involved in this is really daunting and intimidating...and I will really need the help of my PCP...who actually knows little of the treatments from a multitude of Docs who have NO knowledge of each other...anyone...please...with any advice on this journey...I would REALLY appreciate it...

Love

Jon

Jon - I'm sorry you are having to deal with all of this.  It should be enough that we deal with ch - and not have to have anything else to worry about.

Stay strong my friend.  The light might not be as bright around here as it used to be - but it is always on for you.

Hugs
Carol

Quote:

I expect to be offline for a bit

  Just make sure it's only for a "BIT"  If you consider us your other family, and I know you do..then you need us as much as we need you. :-*

Linda_Howell wrote on Jan 23^rd, 2013 at 12:47pm:

Quote: I expect to be offline for a bit   Just make sure it's only for a "BIT"  If you consider us your other family, and I know you do..then you need us as much as we need you. :-*

Yes dear.....

....sometimes a fella has to go out into the wilderness...alone....and howl for a while......

You go and howl all you like and then you get your little backside back here to your family!  8-)

Jon, I haven't been in here in awhile so I missed this post/thread. Linda said it very well already, but I will add that:

The collective power of this group has done some truly wonderful things. As you dig deep for strength, draw from us!

Marc

Howling is good.

Sending thoughts your way.

Carolyn

Praying, my friend.   [smiley=hug.gif]

Me too!

I'm seriously with you.

Charlie

Well...as promised....the latest from SCCA.....

CT scan (wed) shows significant enlargement of lymph nodes in spleen, abdomen and pelvis...surprisingly the neck nodes "not significant" tho larger than I have ever experienced...so significant fer me!

Today Doc called to save me trip to clinic...much appreciated...... tho in my experience a call from a Doc is NOT good...and alas...it wasn't. May you never get such a call.

Apparently, his opinion, time to abandon "watchful waiting" and pursue theraputic measures. Will know more the 13th...but expect at least Rituxan...a monoclonal antibody designed to target the cancerous lymphocytes and theoretically leave the good uns alone. May also be combined with chemo and/or radiation...all depends.

Decisions still to be made...Doc is intent on making me feel "better". While I presented with the enlarged nodes and scared ass concern...I actually don't feel any worse than the complete lousy I've been experiencing these past 3 1/2 years. So, he may be misinterpreting...again, further discussion on the 13th will resolve that. All along, this next step was to be reserved for when necessary...as relapse is assured and we "gotta save those bullets (his phrase)" because the longer you do...the farther out the relapse. That is in my thoughts and I'll put up with what I already have...without the "side effects" of treatment...if, upon further discussion, survival time is unaffected....we'll see. Stay tuned.......

To end on a MUCH better note....a colleague who was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer reached out to me...because now I am perceived as an expert on watchful waiting...and he is faced with that dilemma. As I have learned these past 10 yrs as a Tenant Mgr/Landlord...the BEST "advice" one can give is to shut up and LISTEN! I did...threw in some comments/advice at the appropriate time...and believe we left the conversation with him feeling better about the options. It is the RARE dark cloud with no silver lining....and I continue to believe that I am one LUCKY fella...

Love,

Jon

You know that big 'ol tree, Jon?  Close your eyes and imagine you are sitting under it, letting it shelter you, if only for a little while.   [smiley=hug.gif]

Melissa wrote on Feb 1^st, 2013 at 4:57pm:

You know that big 'ol tree, Jon?  Close your eyes and imagine you are sitting under it, letting it shelter you, if only for a little while.   [smiley=hug.gif]

....pretty good idea...I'm there...sure wish I hadn't sent all my beer to Brian tho  :P

...and thank you ALL....I FEEL the wind....

Still thinking of you often, my friend.  Thank you for the updates.  All our best headed your way. 

George

Was just thinking about you and said to myself....."Self, why not let Jon know".

Thinking positive thoughts and sending prayers, Jon.

George wrote on Feb 2^nd, 2013 at 11:26am:

Still thinking of you often, my friend.  Thank you for the updates.  All our best headed your way.  George

I am with George.

Ok then…what an interesting journey this remains…..

...yesterday’s trip: new Doc, bright, sharp, young (sheesh, they’re ALL babies these days  ;)) good sense of humor, willing to spend all the time with me I needed (most seem to have the “get out the door twitch”..)

…nodes are swollen, including some very large ones on the brink of requiring “treatment to shrink” soes they don’t squish other stuff doncha know. The underlying condition is incurable (yet) and so the decision becomes do we treat just for treatments sake? Don’t know about y’all.. but the idea of chemo for chemo’s sake...makes me barf (pun intended) . After I said no 3 different ways…Doc finally admitted…”my thoughts too” (seems too often they have to deal with folks that can’t stand doin nothing). So we are going to wait 6 weeks…check for any changes in bloodwork or nodes.... and decide if maintenance treatment/chemo necessary….I just LOVE waiting for test time!

…of more interest is that she suggested possibility of several ongoing clinical trials…one of which would not benefit me but may benefit others down the road…and one that may benefit me…I asked to be included for consideration for both…

...then she said somthin else which perked me right up..."you still got a few years for us to figure out how to fix you up"....to quote Bill Murray "So I got that goin for me, which is nice" (can you guess the movie?)

….so we’ll see….that’s it…back to the waiting game…..

Best
jb

Quote:

So we finish the eighteenth and he's gonna stiff me. And I say, "Hey, Lama, hey, how about a little something, you know, for the effort, you know." And he says, "Oh, uh, there won't be any money, but when you die, on your deathbed, you will receive total consciousness." So I got that goin' for me, which is nice.

I'm glad you are going to be with us a while yet!  We aren't ready to turn you loose.

I appreciate you are willing to participate in a study that won't help you, but may help others down the road.  (I hope you get the one that may help you instead, though.)

Praying for you, my friend!

:)  I would have chosen the same, Jon.  And yes, you do have time, that is something I know in my heart.

:-*mel

.......the further sudsy adventures of "jonboy jumps the shark"...you may change the channel at will....

...tonight...the "beer" test...Heineken doncha know...if yur gonna get ch blasted...it might as well be on the good stuff...well, sorta good...sorta bad...ONLY a KIP 3...O2 took care...gonna have to wait a while yet....

...on better news...have been accepted for clinical trial  "protocol 609"...thas the one that won't help me but may help others...but it's really better than that. Really intriguing...they inject chemo drugs into 4 quadrants of a swollen node...surgically excise... and study the results. May not help now...MAY help later :).
Was gonna have a biopsy anyway...so whas the difference? Besides....as I've learned at ch.com...ya do for family...cuz...well...ya do for family....this one..or the big "C". Easy-peasy!

It's all good...I'm retiring...and a boy has GOT to have a hobby....

Best,

jonboy

Jon, you ROCK!  I feel so very lucky to call you a friend. :-*

Jon IS the man.

Jon is my MAIN man.

Jon rocks!!!!!

.....golly...you folks just... make..... me .....cry....in a GOOD way!

...IF jon rocks...it's to a 70's beat...cuz that's where I'm stuck.....

...actually...jon "blues"....cuz that there is music...and to quote a VERY wise old bluesman..."the blues AINT about being down, the blues about being down and getting back UP AGAIN!"

...can you listen to BB King's "The Thrill is Gone" without getting chills?...then check yur pulse....

Love,

jb

Melissa wrote on Feb 20^th, 2013 at 9:34am:

Jon, you ROCK!  I feel so very lucky to call you a friend. :-*

Mel says so much, with so few words - wish I could do that as well. For the time being I will simply, unashamedly and openly steal her words - because they mean so much:

Jon, you ROCK!  I feel so very lucky to call you a friend.

Marc

...latest...can't help myself...thinking about and writing this just helps....

...going in for "formal" clinical testing signing next wednesday...Doc called today and wanted me in tomorrow...couldn't do...but they want my ass!

Admit several motivations...if I can help.... danged if I won't...AND.... if I get on the "list" as a motivated and willing participant in these studies...then just maybe...down the line.... they will call again...when it counts for ME. Can't deny jonboy a little selfish....

...speaking as "jonboy"...nicknames have always fascinated me. Where I work...everybody has got one...mostly bestowed by the funniest man I have ever met. In my experience...ya get one because you are loved OR despised (these are all from love). A few of my work family are:

Boom-Boom: Really Dan...but he once ran a race in the parking lot, against a fellow worker...in rubber boots...the sound was...well ...you know....

Jay-vu/Jay-wee: Really Jefferey and the bestower..because our Asian coworkers could not say Jeffery

Eye!(yai-yai):Really Ilene B....and initially IB...but her 5 sons, who all worked here at one point, all said...one look from Mom and we knew we were in deep s**t

Amigo: really Danny...a Tex-Mex who truly was everbody's friend

Flacco: Really Jessie...but a real skinny Philippino

Redneck:Really Jim...but he just looked like a redneck...tho he wasn't...

Cowboy: Really Mark...but he WAS a redneck

Cookie:No idea the real name..it never came up...a 250 lb woman fond of cookies (she didn't mind)

Junior: really Harrison...but he WAS a "junior" by name...and being 70 yrs old amongst a bunch of 20 somethings...it just fit. The first to accept me...30 yrs ago..as "a nice, smart young man we are fortunate to have"...kept me in a job I thought I'd made a mistake taking...I will always love that man....

Day-bee:Really Debbie...but again..the Asians couldn't say

Patty Sausage: Really Pat...but a consumate whiner...it just fit

Douger/Dougie: Really Doug...it was also an Asian thing

Candy:Really Bang (can ya believe that?)...a remarkably beautiful Thai lady...eye candy doncha know

Abby:Really Abduhl...and the tiniest Vietnamese you will ever see...just a delightful personality

Fozzi-Bear: Really Fauzi...and a real ladies man...the women just found him "cuddly"...myself I never saw it...bwaaaa-hahahaha

Tatu: Really Oscar....5 foot nothin...Fantasy Island reference...

Saryman:Really Sary...but he was a man...ya just needed to add the extra

...so many more...but I'll end with...

jonboy:Really Jon...and yours truly...cuz I'm a goody two shoes...and the conscience of the company (gonna miss that!)

Best,

"jonboy"

Stay strong my friend.....Lenny

Jon, I have stayed on the sidelines up to now, praying for you, because I still feel like a newcomer to this site. I don't have the longevity so many of you have together, but I feel as close to all of you as I do to my longer term friends. Sometimes closer.

We all face our mortality in very different ways. While CHs are excruciating they are a reminder we are mere flesh. And while they won't kill us, we sometimes wish they would. Until we're hit with a challenge (as are you) that really might take us down. Then we understand how much we want to hold on to life.

You know where I stand on this, Jon. I believe we don't end but rather go from life to life. This life is merely a railroad turnhouse that opens us to a larger and greater life. Still, we want to be here as long as we are allowed. And we want you here as long as you are allowed. So stay strong. Stay fresh. Stay frosty. And use all the skill you have learned fighting the beast to do battle against this newest and most unwelcome intruder.

God bless. My prayers are with you. lance

Jon, my friend, I appreciate your attitude so much.  i love your quote from BB King.  Getting knocked down has never been the issue.  It is whether you stay down.  You are not one to do this.   [smiley=hug.gif], my friend.

Jerry

Jon, thanks for sharing those nick-names.  Very amusing reading.  ;D
Sounds like a wonderful company to work for.

Ok then...the further adventures of jonboy in "As the Chemo Burns"....

As reported previously...the clinical trial that wasn't gonna help me.... is in progress...test and surgery next week. This one a pay it forward....if not me, who?..if not now,when? If not why,why not? No brainer...

Today I was invited and accepted into a second clinical trial..THIS one may help me! Have told very few yet...but the universal response has been "you're volunteering to be a guinea pig???" I suppose it all has to do with perspective...but I respond...ok, what I have is incurable and terminal (granted...down the line)...given that...what would YOU do? Pause...pause...pause..."oh yeah, guess the same"  8-)
Me: ya think?  :P

Guinea pig or not...this trial involves comparison of standard-accepted treatment vs a combination of several meds already in use in Europe for 10 yrs with good results. Since I need chemo now anyway...and they'll switch me to the alternate if the first doesn't work...no brainer!!!

And even better...thank God for NOT small favors...while I'm chronic...there are still cycles..and this recent 4 month HIGH cycle is winding down at a most opportune time...BIG sigh........

...your jonboy remains a blessed and lucky man....

Thank God it's winding down!  Nothing pisses me off more than having to fight more than one nasty battle at once, especially to such good people!!

TY for the updates, I always look forward to them as you have a way with words, Jon.  Plus, you're energy rubs off on others and I will say I am selfish enough to glean from your optimism.  8-)

Answers to prayer, my friend!  I'm so glad for you.  Thanks for the update.

Jerry

So...Chapter 19..."Cut and Paste"...

Surgery today went well....

...First, they make you take off ALL yur clothes...INCLUDING the Pooh-Bear panties...then they put you in a mini-skirt...with yur ass hanging out and yur dangly bits, well, dangling...THEN they ask if you are comfortable?....sheesh...NO!

Actually...these people (UW Med Center)...are quite amazing...universally thorough, professional, and funny.
Check in...knock out...cut up...wake up...butt out the door...all within 3 1/2 hrs!!! I wouldn't recommend as a REGULAR routine...but it WAS pretty dang routine....

Minimal pain...drugs on board..onto the next chapter...

Best

jonboy

There's nothing like a medical procedure to strip a man...(literally in this case  ;D) of all his dignity huh Jon? ;)

Glad to hear it went well, another good step down yer road. Lord knows we're all pulling for ya!

Joe

Wow, sounds like an amazing place!  Sorry to hear about the dangle bits. :-/

Glad it went well and you are now comfortable at home.  Good thing there were no kittens around when the dangly bits were hangin' round.....


Course, ya mighta heard a yowl or two from those ya named ;)

*hugs* Cat

Hope you heal up fast and improve 100%. Also sorry about the dangly bits. But you've proven to be a super trooper Jon.

Best wishes,
Carl

Jon, my friend, you do it to me everytime!  Fortunately, I had just put down my coffee cup before clicking on your thread.  I KNOW better than have coffee in hand when reading anything of yours.

I was feeling sorry for myself somewhat as I've been dealing with a temporary issue and the beast has been acting beastly since last evening.  You have me laughing with tears running down both cheeks and dripping off.  My wife just shook her head and told my daughter, "He's looking at some clusterhead thing again!" 

With laughter as the best medicine I should make it to 150 easily.

Be well, my friend.  You are in our prayers.

Jerry

My supporter too can tell when I'm reading these forums too from similar reactions.

Although the idea of cats and dangly bits is too scary to dwell on!

Chapter 49..."We Got Good News and Bad News"

...today's appt:

The GOOD...recent biopsy revealed NO progression to a more aggressive form (which Doc thought possible and probable)...trust me...ya can't get much better news than this....

The BAD....it's worse and trending worse...CHEMO time...scary time...

The GOOD....well, it's not such a bad chemo...you should do fine...it won't cure...but it will prolong....

The BAD...frigging insurance company is billing me THOUSANDS of dollars for past, current, and future...because this treatment (same-same)...is at this facility...and not theirs...I'm fighting that..if for nothing more than causing a tiny bit of the aggravation they are causing me...if I lose...it's only money (damned if they won't EARN it then)...

The GOOD...this Doc is just amazing...smart, bright, good sense of humor (sheesh...they should teach THIS in Med school, is all too rare)...spent an hour answering EVERY question I had...with calm intelligence...suspect she would have spent another hour if I needed...displayed NO "rush"...

The GOOD....I'm scared BUT confident...this jonboy remains a blessed and lucky man...

Best

J

We're all in your corner Jon, attitude is everything and yours kicks ass. [smiley=hug.gif] [smiley=heart.gif] Hugs and love from our family to you.

Joe

Jon, i'm going through a similar situation-I will spare you details.  Just know we love you and are rooting for ya.  Don't know, but I get the feeling you'll be around for a loooooooooooong time.

Hugs,
Langa

Still praying for you, my friend.  I don't believe either that God is done with you yet.  You are still a blessing to to many people. 

Glad to hear the good news, sorry about the bad. 

jc

HEY!...thank you ALL! Many decisions still to be made...but I got a family wind beneath my wings...there is no way to express my gratitude for that...EVERY time I walk in a door I don't wanna enter.........

Love

J

GOOD-4, BAD-2

Looks like the good is winning. ;)

JON...You have and ALWAYS will be in my thoughts and prayers.....Lenny

Quote:

Fortunately, I had just put down my coffee cup before clicking on your thread.  I KNOW better than have coffee in hand when reading anything of yours.

Boy, you nailed that one correctly Jerry.   LOL

Chapter 61: "John, We Don't Know How We're Possibly Going to Get Along Without You....But Starting Monday, We Gonna Find Out!"

...those the words of a former Warehouse Mgr coworker when firing a knothead......sorta mean I guess...but "it's not the ones you fire who make your life miserable...it's the one you don't".

...well...starting today....they're finding out how they gonna get along without this Jon...I am retired! Have never understood that word. While I am REAL tired...what does REtire mean?????

...some tears involved with yesterdays leaving...and there's nothing wrong with tears...I just prefer laughter...and there was some of that too...

...and oh...counter-intuitively...Pooh goes in the FRONT...Tigger in the back....

Best

jon

...well...starting today....they're finding out how they gonna get along without this Jon...I am retired! Have never understood that word. While I am REAL tired...what does REtire mean?????

It means it's all about Jon time!!! [smiley=applause.gif] [smiley=clap2.gif] [smiley=me&mb.gif] [smiley=shore.gif] [smiley=thumb.gif] [smiley=tekst-toppie.gif] [smiley=wave.gif]

In other words....oh happy days! Congrats brudder

Joe

Jon, Jon, Jon, you did it to me again!  I started reading and then put down my tea cup JUST IN TIME! 

"..and oh...counter-intuitively...Pooh goes in the FRONT...Tigger in the back...."  My friend, you are not right in the head!

I know you will be missed on the job, but I'm glad you were able to pull the plug.  I don't think you will lack for things to do.  You are not the type to just sit around.  My father-in-law has been retired for almost 25 yrs now, and he doesn't know how he ever had time to work a job.

Jerry

Yep....I agree with Joe...

IT'S JON TIME....ENJOY IT!!!

Your are in my thoughts and prayers   :-*

Jon,

I think that everyone who has the pleasure of knowing you are the "blessed and lucky" ones.

Jeannie

...anyone else ever had the feeling that health insurance companies are the devil's spawn????

...I have been denied coverage for the clinical trial.... which is a no lose no brainer for anyone with any sense...and not only that, but ANY coverage for what is the "standard care" portion of that study...sheesh...."we prefer you dead...it saves money"!

...will therefore be doing the "non study" chemo cycle...and guess I will have to fight for that too....as it aint in their facility. I won't abandon the place that is the ultimate in care....and I will dang sure appeal the heck out of this...apparently a new hobby.........

Best

Jon

Sorry you have to go through that, my friend.  Perhaps if you were to post their name here, and especially on FacrBook with a description of what they are doing they will reconsider.  Bad PR can be very expensive.  However, on the flip side, I understand them trying to cut costs as much as possible.  Obamacare is making a big dent in them.  All ins companies are pulling things in pretty tight now.

jc

jon019 wrote on Apr 4^th, 2013 at 7:49pm:

...anyone else ever had the feeling that health insurance companies are the devil's spawn???? ...I have been denied coverage for the clinical trial.... which is a no lose no brainer for anyone with any sense...and not only that, but ANY coverage for what is the "standard care" portion of that study...sheesh...."we prefer you dead...it saves money"! ...will therefore be doing the "non study" chemo cycle...and guess I will have to fight for that too....as it aint in their facility. I won't abandon the place that is the ultimate in care....and I will dang sure appeal the heck out of this...apparently a new hobby......... Best Jon

Praying with all my might that they cover it at the place you want, Jon!!

btw, I hope you can find some happiness in the fact you are now retired. xo

Jon, thinking of you.

We always used to spend the holidays with Grandma and Grandpa.  They used to live in a big brick house, but Grandpa got retarded and they moved to Arizona.

Now they live in a tin box and have rocks painted green to look like grass.  They ride around on their bicycles, and wear name tags, because they don’t know who they are anymore.

They go to a building called a wreck center, but they must have got it fixed because it is all okay now, they do exercises there, but they don’t do them very well.  There is a swimming pool too, but they all jump up and down in it with hats on.

At their gate, there is a doll house with a little old man sitting in it.  He watches all day so nobody can escape.  Sometimes they sneak out, and go cruising in their golf carts.  Nobody there cooks, they just eat out.  And, they eat the samething every night – early birds.

Some of the people can’t get out past the man in the doll house.  The ones who do get out, bring food back to the wrecked center for pot luck.

My Grandma says that Grandpa worked all his life to earn his retardment and, says I should work hard so I can be retarded someday too.

When I earn my retardment, I want to be the man in the doll house.  Then I will let people out, so they can visit their grandchildren.

All the best, my friend!
Jerry

I sometimes think insurance companies are subsidiaries of the devil's corporation world.

Really sorry to read this Jon. You have enough of a fight going on right now without having to battle the insurance company on top of it.

Hang tough & take care of yourself.

Chapter 73..."Illegitimi carborundum"...

Timothy Leary said "tune in, turn on, and drop out"...for me its "hang in, hang on, and never give up"

...well, I'm hanging in....and it's a fight every step of the way. My so called health "insurance" company first denied participation in a clinical trial....so I appealed.
Now...they are approving "certain portions" of that study. When I called to ask 'zactly what THAT meant...they couldn't/wouldn't tell me...since I'm gonna do it anyway...I will have to take my satisfaction/fun in being a constant PITA!

...and oh...it DOES pay to gripe...the last test they denied...to the tune of $2000 out of pocket for me...got reversed on appeal...for the wrong reason...but I'll take it

...not as bitter as I sound...just venting  a little...with a smile....bone marrow biopsy maybe next week

...till then...hangin on  8-)

Best

jon

It's all about the actuaries, Jon. When claims are denied, x% of them are never brought up again, and that translates directly to the bottom line.

Keep bein' the squeaky wheel.

Brew wrote on Apr 18^th, 2013 at 11:40pm:

It's all about the actuaries, Jon. When claims are denied, x% of them are never brought up again, and that translates directly to the bottom line.

Didn't John Grishim write a novel around this sort of thing?

Mike NZ wrote on Apr 19^th, 2013 at 3:20am:

Didn't John Grishim write a novel around this sort of thing?

If he did, I haven't read it.

As long as you aren't hanging by the neck you are doing OK. 

Glad you got the trial at least partially approved.  Your new job, should you decide to take it, is to continue harassing the Ins co until they do what they should do.  I remember years ago in a different life, or so it seems, BCBS would deny payment for something, so Linda would call them up and say you have to pay it.  They would say "your policy doesn't cover that", so Linda would read the pertinent part of the policy to them that did "cover that".  It would always get covered, but only when we told them what the policy covered.  It is always easier for them to say "No" than to think.  Besides that, it is more profitable.

Jerry

Brew wrote on Apr 19^th, 2013 at 8:13am:

Mike NZ wrote on Apr 19th, 2013 at 3:20am: Didn't John Grishim write a novel around this sort of thing? If he did, I haven't read it.

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An medical insurance company has a policy to deny all claims...

...the latest installment of what I suspect should be called Jon's "stupid blog"...suffice it to say...reading is most definitely voluntary...proceed at your own peril  ::)

Chapter 91..."When You Get To the Fork In the Road...Take It!"....

or..."Go to the Slawson Cutoff....Get Out...Cut off Your Slawson!"

....been in the hospital from friday til today...blood clots in the lungs....they tell me the direct result of sticky platelets from lymphoma ...and the "retired persons disease" of sitting on the fricken couch too much (lesson learned!). Damn...the gift that just keeps on giving...they didn't warn me about this one! Fortunately, based on what I heard later...I wasn't as scared as I SHOULD have been  :o

chemo is now delayed until we get rid of THIS issue (w/rat poison or some such)...Catch 22 is that since lymphoma is causing the clots...ya gots to stop that first. Only.... ya can't start that until the clots are gone...only it causes the clots...only, only, only...

"But what can a poor boy do
Except to sing for a rock n roll band
Cause in sleepy london town
There's just no place for a street fighting man"

It was no small irony that they first roomed this clusterhead with an 86 yr old Alzheimers patient (with other issues) for the first 2 days. One (me) who has been known to scream into a pillow...and the other.....who screamed AT his pillow.

No sleep the first night...4 hours the next. Diaper changes...a fight. Position changes every 2 hours...a fight. Vitals check...a fight. 8x per night ripped off O2 mask...causing O2 saturation alarm....2 feet from my head....imagine the loudest alarm clock!!! He couldn't ring the nurses...so I did it for him. It got to be a routine. Ring...wait for the nurses...point a boney finger to Lou in the next bed. I was thinking this has got to be a motivational ploy to get rid of me  ;)

Now...before you think what a heartless guy I am...note I never asked to be moved...considered it a duty and an honor to assist a brother in need...and was rewarded with the most remarkable display of professionalism and compassion I have ever witnessed. Those nurses, sometimes 3 at a time....responded immediately, with nary a blink or a complaint, with soothing voices and gentle prodding...working in unison.... and....got... the... job...done!. On the way out...they patted me on the foot...."sorry Jon".

After the second night...the hospital Quality Control guy came to interview me about the service "I" was receiving...totally unrelated to Lou (he probably didn't know). The service I was receiving was just fine...and I told him so...and I also related my feelings above. Nearly in unison.... we both said..."Well, that could be me in the next bed...that's what I think".

Evening of the third night...those nurses came in..said "Jon...you need your rest too...we're moving you"...and they did....bed and all down the hallway. Lou got his own room.

Several DELIGHTFUL notes for clusterville....I'm thinking the msg is finally getting out!!!! Upon admittance, I indicated clusterhead here in cycle...and I needed a non-rebreather mask and access to high flow O2! I wasn't nasty... BUT, I was firm.  No need, 5 mins later I had the mask in hand, and a finger point to the O2 control valve within arms reach (was already on O2 anyway). They looked at me funny when I looked at them funny...bwaaaa-hahahaha

Then...and I can't quite believe this myself....when I described my situation, needs, and titration methods for verapamil dosage to the nurses (self changing drug administration in a hospital environment being NFW)...they simply said...."Doc (edit to say she listened) says you know what you are doing...let him titrate!" I slept good after that.....

jonboy doing fine at home right now...allies have been found to get this insurance crap staightened out...I am looking forward to chemo  :o

Best,

j

Phew, Jon!  That was exhausting just to read!  So glad you are back home now!  At least the care was good aside from your bed neighbor.  Now try and relax, at least for a little while!

xo
mel

Jon....I hate what you are going through but I DO love reading your "blog". You are one tough dude but you have a gentle soul.  :)

I'm with Jimi, please keep the blog going. Your sense of humor is a tribute to your character.

Joe

You are much loved Jon, and remain in my prayers. God bless. lance

Still vibing daily for you, Jon.

Always in thoughts and prayers - you are an inspiration!

Chapter 96 "Don't blame the dynamite if you can't light the fuse"

Well....the fuse is lit...no more messing around with the insurance droids....chemo starts Friday...and I'm looking forward to it!

Best

jon

I heard recently that a bloke wrote on a cancer web-site that he was sitting in his garden and saw a white owl staring down and what did it mean???!

Best answer was, "You've got mice."

Praying, my friend!  You will deal with chemo with the same grace and verve that you have faced everything else. 

Jerry

So sorry to hear of all this Jon.  :-? Rest assured you are in this clusterhead's prayers and thoughts. Hang in there, brother. hugs and all the best, nani

As always Jon, all we have coming your way.

Joe

Quote:

chemo starts Friday...and I'm looking forward to it

THATS.. the Jon I know and love!!!!!!!!

So many have sent their prayers to you.
So many send vibes, ju ju, and best wishes.

I send you my strength.  I do not need it right now.  I give it as a gift to a friend who does.

I may need some of it back one day...but for now it is all yours.  Kick ass!!

Chapter 99  "Periscope Up"....

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT........THE WIND BENEATH MY WINGS!

First 2 day treatment complete (fri/sat). Day 1 was 10 hrs long...they're very slow and careful in case of adverse reactions...had a few but all well controlled...day 2 a breeze. Not many bad effects so far...just extremely tired...which I was warned about...sleeping a lot.

They started me out with a tour of the "infusion unit" (@Seattle Cancer Care)...about 51 tiny rooms in sort of a circle....first thing the nurse said was  "this is a self serve ward"....and I woulda started laughing or made a smart-ass remark if, well, it wasn't my first time, and I didn't want to be rude! I was thinking...Holy Crap...you gotta be kidding me!!!! I got to do this myself !?????

Wrong jonboy (whew)....what it means is they got snack pantries, blanket warmer bins, lotsa restrooms, and with your mobile IV stand, yur expected to do fer yourself.....I'm thinking that's a good idea. Also now free to release my inner smart-ass...or at least find a little bit of humor in what could be a scary place.....

Best

later

jon

You'll make it a brighter place with your presence! We share a wicked, sarcastic sense of humor. That which you can laugh at, can never beat ya! Keep on keepin on Jon.

Joe

Humor and a good heart can speed your healing, my friend.  And you have those attributes. We think of you often. It's a joy to hear from you.

All our very best,

George

Hang in there, Sweetie...your attitude will carry you a long way.  Sending prayers and love.  :-)

Jon, that sounds like an awesome place! 

I bet you'll find others to connect with as well and cheer them up with your wonderful stories and way with words.  Wish I was close by, I'd come and visit you. xo

Jon, Jon, Jon, " release my inner smart-ass"???  If you have an "Inner" one, what in the heck is IT like???   ;D

Hang in there, my friend.  Praying for you!

Jerry

Jon...
Even though we don't know each other well I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you on your difficult road. This is a wonderful family we have here and we have your back so keep talking and venting as we are ALL rooting you on and want to help as much as possible with support, caring and love for a family member...Take good care and keep fightin the good fight!!....:)

Jon,

Keep that stone with you.  Remember,...the one I asked you to find?  Hold it tight in your grasp during these times. The more you touch it, the more you run your thumb over it's surface, the more you attract all the positive energy flowing your way.  Like static electricity, the more you rub a balloon the more energy it creates and attracts.  Rub that stone Jon.....Rub that stone....LOVE you.

Chapter 101 "Shhh...be vewy vewy quiet....I'm hunting wabbits!"

Been laying low...don't wanna jinx nothing, but.....

there's good news on "the condition": bear in mind only ONE infusion so far....

Several of the out of whack blood chems are now "normal"   several others that aren't normal are "trending" normal.

Unbelievably...I can actually feel the near surface nodes shrinking...I kept myself from getting too excited...but nurse said its not unusual. The good is...it's so...the bad...it's so because those nodes were growing really fast...it's the slow growing ones we worry about...but still..."you CAN get excited!!"

Before...I was completely miserable along with being dishrag tired...now I am even MORE tired (sleeping 15 hrs/dy) but no longer miserable!!!!. She said....not unusual...before your body was working against you along with being sick....now it's working for you. You're gonna be tired...and maybe even worse...but that's GOOD energy devoted to the right places.

Am itchier than a calico cat in a box full of cooties...but they tell me that's normal too....skin cells grow fast and we're knockin 'em out just like the "C's"...

next infusion June 14/15...I have been warned...make no assumptions...don't get too high or too low..."things" could happen.  They aren't being negative...just real.....me too  8-)

Best

jonboy

Keepin it real Jon.....and keep kickin its arse. We're all in your corner. [smiley=hug.gif]

Joe

Go meds, go meds, go meds!!!  Yay Jon!  I know you don't want to get your hopes up but I'll be excited for you anyway!  :-*

Yes!!  :)  Sounds positive and I love it.  Good thoughts and prayers always   :)

You go Jon!!!!!   :)

:) Great news Jon!

..my brother...Pete...is a GOOD man...better than me in many ways (you all would like him...a lot!)...and the possessor (usually) of a much gentler wit than myself...

...but, occasionally...when my knothead tendacies and "quietude" prevail (sheesh, ask the Sis and nieces)...it pisses him off and he will say:...which we will call Chapter 103 ...."

"You're Fine...How Am I???"

Well...dang...I hope truly wonderful!...bucket-head

Myself?...the journey is just so frigggin interesting. Side effects of chemo much less dramatic than envisioned...got all my hair (sheesh, didn't have any anyway)...no barfing..now THAT'S a blessing...skin shedding...but shoot...it grows back doncha know? A bleed here and there...but dang, I got quarts!  Tired?...who cares...I'm retired..if reading the paper requires too much energy....there be... a... nap ;)

Next chemo next Friday/Sat..now THERE'S 10+ hours of true joy....bwaaaaa-hahahahaha....

No worries mi amigos...I'm gettin' along like a little doggie!

Love

jonboy

You're always in my thoughts, Jon, and I'm so happy to see you're still chugging along. :)

THANK YOU for letting us all know how you're coming along!  You are our brother and if you didn't tell us we'd have to hunt you down and hog tie you. ;)

xo mel

It's always nice to hear from you and to hear how you're doing.  Your positive energy will be such a big boost for you.

Make sure you spread your amazing positive attitude to everyone else as it'll do wonders.

Chapter 107:

"So...There Ya Go...and then...There Ya Are!...and if you weren't there?...You'd Be... Somewheres Else!"
...doncha know?

Me?...I'm looking for that somewheres else. Last chemo kicked my ass...a little surprising...cuz the first two were "easy...sorta"...so got complacent...tho they told me "don't make assumptions cowboy!"... plus one of my meds is twistin' my colon, so to speak.

Doc appts all this week....next chemo round this fri/sat...I'm a little worried...and... "it takes a worried man to sing a worried song...(so I'm hopin) I'm worried now, but I won't be worried long!"

Isn't there some cosmic deal where ya get sick, get yer ass kicked, climb out of the hole, and move on???
I got my boots on....I'm ready!!!

Thinkin I need a joke or two...can ya all hep a fella out?
Jerry and Brian one up on ya....... 8-)

Best

jb

Gotta wonder about them doctors, Jon. One of my legs isn't so good just now and he reckons it's because I'm getting older.

I said, "Oi, my other leg is the same age and it's fine."

Didja hear the one about the cannibal who passed his brother in law in the jungle???

Hang in there Jon, wish I could shoulder some of the load for ya. [smiley=hug.gif]

Joe

Two cannibals were eating a clown.

One says to the other, "Does this taste funny to you?"

What did one hat say to the other?  I'll stay here, you go on a head!

How much does a pirate pay for corn?  A buccaneer!

What did the psychiatrist say when a man wearing nothing but saran wrap walked into his office?  I can clearly see you're nuts!

What happened when the butcher backed into his meat grinder?  He got a little behind in his work.

A magician was driving down the road..then he turned into a drive way.

xoxo

Hey Jon..
Even though I rarely post here anymore, I have been following.  You have the amazing optimist spirit that would put Buddha to shame!

Here's an oldie but a goodie..

A guy was seated next to a 10-year-old girl on an airplane. Being bored, he turned to the girl and said, "Let's talk. I've heard that flights go quicker if you strike up a conversation with your fellow passenger."

The girl, who was reading a book, closed it slowly and said to the guy, "What would you like to talk about?"

Oh, I don't know," said the guy. "How about nuclear power?"

"OK," she said. "That could be an interesting topic. But let me ask you a question first. A horse, a cow and a deer all eat the same stuff... grass. Yet a deer excretes little pellets, while a cow turns out a flat patty, and a horse produces clumps of dried grass. Why do you suppose that is?"

The guy thought about it and said, "Hmmm, I have no idea."

To which the girl replied, "Do you really feel qualified to discuss nuclear power when you don't know shit?"


:D
;D
;) Wishing you the best!

OHHHH...you people are just PRICELESS!!!!...I have tears running down my cheeks...and they be good ones! THANK YOU>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Spent all day today in the ER...oncologist made me go..didna wanna...but didna wanna piss her off...shit...it's like being married....................

1 hr of tests.....9 hrs of finger in nose and thumb in..... "SHHHHH...AAAAAA...VING CREAM...feel nice and clean" just...fricken...waiting..... (that be a Dr Demento reference, in case ya wonder  ;))

...the ONLY entertainment being the show across the hallway...a tiny, ancient, Russian lady..with indistinguishable injuries...who carried on an hours long conversation (with herself, mind you...and I REGRET that I couldn't follow...probably better than tv)...and responded to any attempts to help with...OI>>>OI>>>OI>>>OI...or DA, DA, DA!!!, or....NYET, NYET, NYET!!!....talk about priceless. The looks on the nurses faces as they left...I needed a camera! DANG ;D.

...wanted to go over...cup her cherub Babushka cheeks in my hands and say.."STF up and let them help you!" Unfortunately, I sometimes lack the bravery required of conviction follow through...but I'm workin' on it....chemo this friday/sat...tis' the limit of my courage these days

Best

a tired.......j

Jon, my friend,

I haven't been on here in a while, and missed your update.  Sorry!  I normally check this page looking to see if you've posted, but have been busy and neglected you.  My Jr Hi and Sr Hi Sunday School class has been praying for you.  I've told them about your attitude and your ability to laugh at life and its foibles.  They have taken a real interest.

If you will PM me your addy I'll mail you a couple of books I've enjoyed.  First book that actually made me laugh out loud in several points.  My wife was in the other room, and she asks, "Are you on that Clusterhead page again?"  It's that funny.  If you don't want to send your addy, send my someone else's that will pass it on.   ;)

I'll work on some jokes for you.  Don't have any at the ready.   :-[

All the best,
Jerry

Jon,

One weak story just came to mind:

An African tribal king was a great admirer of the English Monarchy.  He had been given a picture of one of the old English kings sitting on a throne wearing an Ermine robe and wanted the same for himself.  He saved for a number of years and finally was able to buy a throne for himself.

The tribal witch-doctor was a mortal enemy of the king, and was jealous of his throne, so one night he sneaked into the throne room and stole the throne!

The next morning the king was furious and demanded a hut by hut search of the village to look for the missing throne.  It was not found anywhere.  Furious, the king went to the witch doctor's hut and demanded to know what the witch doctor had done with it.  The witch doctor denied any knowledge of the throne, upon which the throne fell from the rafters onto his head and killed him.

The moral of the story is this:  Those who live in grass houses should not stow thrones!

Jon, I stole this one from Nikki Thandi on the Many Faces of Migraine no FB.  Thought of you.

I wish I were a glow worm,
A glow worm's never glum,
'Cause how can you be grumpy,
When the sun shines out your bum?

O2! Be my wife,
To you I owe my life,
I lie with you, cry without you,
Die should I not have you.
Steel bottle, you're so beautiful,
Nubile, slim and touchable,
Seductive, seducive and
Oh! So sensual.

Your slinkiness and hardness
And coolness alone,
Render me speechless
Entirely in your thrall.
Let me breath of your breath,
New lease on life, not ugly death,
To live again, be a man again,
You're my be-all and end-all.

These taps and guages
Drive me wild with desire,
I must touch them and stroke them
Like stoking a fire.
I'm burning and yearning
And hearing you calling,
Just seeing you there
Like lingerie falling.

O2! Please hold me,
Let me be bold with you,
We'll snuggle and cuddle,
Kill this monster a-borning.
It's not just chance meeting,
Or love so fleeting,
Thank you, O2,
I'll respect you in the morning.



(From the archives of
clusterheadaches.com)

Chapter 109

"When You're Smilin', When You're Smilin', The Whole World Smiles With You!"

Sittin in the chemo room right now with a BIG smile. Just got out of doc appt...results of mid-treatment CT scans show 90% node reduction. In medical vernacular that is aka: A COMPLETE RESPONSE!!! Doc was giggling...not cured (yet) but this is REAL good.

Proof positive that clusterhead prayers and jokes got wings....and The Lord's got a sense of humor....(just look in the mirror). ::) THANK YOU FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!

Was listening to Elvis' "An American Trilogy"...which made me cry...don't know why ...but it IS Elvis...and I'm one emotional dude right now  :D :D :D

BEST,

jonboy

Looking for the "LIKE" button! [smiley=applause.gif] [smiley=clap2.gif] [smiley=headbanger.gif] [smiley=JAW_DROP.gif] [smiley=shore.gif] [smiley=sayyes.gif] [smiley=wink.gif]

okay...I'm done.

Joe

I'm doing the happy dance for you sitting here in my lazy boy!!!  Jon, you have no idea how happy that makes us.  You are such an integral part of this family, and you have made such an impact on so many lives.  You have all of us pulling for you.  My prayers will be of great thanksgiving along with a request for the other 10%, and a continued growth in your recovery.

Jerry

Wonderful news, my friend. Wonderful news.  :) [smiley=applause.gif]

Guiseppi wrote on Aug 9^th, 2013 at 8:08pm:

Looking for the "LIKE" button!

Needs more than just a "like" button, needs an over the moon button! :)

I love reports like this.

Jon wrote,
was listening to Elvis " An American Trilogy " which made me
cry don't know why but it is Elvis and I'm one emotional dude
Right now.

Hi Jon,
Love that song, Elvis at his best.
It's like when I hear " Pomp and Circumstance "
Land of Hope and Glory. It takes you back to where
Your roots are, and will bring a tear to my eye.

I wish you all the best and a speedy recovery, Hoppy.

That's great news Jon! ;)

-Gregg in Las Vegas

That's fantastic news Jon.  Congratulations!!!  I guess there isn't a beast you can't kick to the curb  8-)

-Dennis-

Just smilin' here, my friend. That's wonderful news!

All my best,

George

So thankful for your good news Jon. Keep up the great progress. God less.

I'm a little late to the table on this one - just catching up.  Jon - that's great news.  Prayers continue for as long as you need them.  You are amazing!!!!! :)

Chapter 119:
“Elvis Has Left the Building” (“Elvis isn’t dead….he just went home!” TLJ (MIB))

…actually, it was just jonboy visiting his brother’s cabin in the CA mountains. Didn’t feel like going…didn’t feel like doing anything….finally figured I didn’t want to look back someday when I couldn’t go and say I wished I had……He and Sue ran my ass ragged and I am home now to recuperate from my (wonderful!) vacation……..

Feeling rather “ooky” these days but only one more “double whammy” chemo (two drugs) to go (next week). After that it’s only “single whammy” every other month for next two years. Expect to be feeling rather “normal” ….whatever THAT means for a clusterhead.

One of these pics is me…one is Mike the Marmot who resides next to the highway near Ebbetts Pass. Since we both have the same amount of hair….only one way to tell the difference….HATS OFF!

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Best

jb

edit to add: thas just the best I could do with pics....shesh how frustrating.................................

glad you are still with us!  Was beginning to wonder. >:(  Jon, my friend, you have a family here that loves and cares about you.  Miss your posts, and we pray and worry about how you are doing.

Glad you are at the end of the doubles.  I know they kick your tail.  I do hope the head behaves. 

Praying for you, my friend.

Jerry

Jon, thank you for checking in and I'll be counting down the days till it's only single whammy time! Love you brother! :-*

Jon,

Your chronicling of this deeply profound and personal ordeal has been an inspiration for me. This is the flat out “scary shit” that we don’t want to think about, let alone actually face. You are in it, here and now - showing us an up-side of you that many of us couldn't possibly match...........

I can’t count the number of times I have sat here stunned and speechless.  I don't need a response - just wanted to say these things to you while I was thinking them.

Marc

Well said, Marc.  I've learned a lot about grace under pressure from Jon. 

Jerry

Chapter 123: “I had the blues so bad one time…… it put my face in a permanent frown…now I’m feeling so much better….. I could cakewalk into town”

Your slog through this jonblog is just about over…no more double demon chemo….just completed the first of 12 single agent “maintenance” chemos….designed to maintain what, so far, has been a remarkably successful response. If chemo could be described as “easy”…this one would qualify. My Doc would make a good clusterville primary…she just can’t choke out the word “cure” …because it doesn’t exist... yet! But, she says with a twinkle in her eye, we are getting to the point where I can “almost” tell you we can treat this as chronic instead of terminal! I’m on board with THAT…cuz clusterheads can relate  ::)

In the careful what you wish for category…as previously described I am in a clinical trial for lymphoma treatment. Was a little boo-hoo because I didn’t get into the “new-improved drug” arm of the study…instead the “standard of care”. Sos, I recently asked the study coordinator about the “results” so far. Turns out…very preliminary of course, but revealing….the new ‘juice” not working as good as the “old wine”. I was just where I needed to be all along…the Lord protects fools and clusterheads..or both in one!... like yours truly.

I surely want to thank you ALL…. THIS family….. for the vibes, prayers, support, humor, and love I have felt to the very core of my heart in this battle for these past 4 years. Shoot, I could just cry…ah well then, I already AM……….

Best,

Love,

YOUR jonboy

P.S. Disabled is as disabled does. Can no longer work and I been getting fat…lazy…and useless…none of which is me…so I have volunteered for meals on wheels, senior transport, and in home hospice care. Danged if that old couch is gonna get me……not when there’s folks out there needing my  help…and me theirs!

P.P.S. That's a Taj Mahal  title in case ya wondered  ;)

Jon,
You know what they say. "You can't keep a good man down"
I could'nt find a better way of putting it.

Hoppy.

[smiley=hug.gif] From Christy and I!!!

Joe

More great news! Amazing to read about both you and Svenn having a wonderful result.

Christmas has come early for both of you.

Still standing by here, and sending all the best I can your way, my friend. Hugs from all of us.  [smiley=hug.gif]

Best always,

George

Holding you close in our hearts and prayers, Jon....sending much love. 

Thanks, so much for the update, my friend!  God does answer prayer, and I don't believe he is done with you.  Hopefully you will soon be able to not only go from terminal to chronic, but then from chronic to "chronisodic", if I can borrow a term from Chris. 

I'm glad you are finding something to do with your time.  You, an old grouch?  I don't think so.  You think of other people way to much for that. 

[smiley=hug.gif]  I'd throw in a big old sloppy kiss to go along with it, but I'm afraid folks wouldn't understand.  I'll not admit to crying in public, but my eyes are a bit damp, and I had trouble reading the screen there for a bit.

All the best, my friend.  Please don't be a stranger!  We miss you 'round here.

Jerry

Good for you, Jon! I love you, brother! You have a good heart and soul. What we give always comes back to us in one form or another.

:-*

Jon  - great to hear from you again and the update sounds promising.

Glad to hear you got your butt off the sofa!  We seniors need you kids to do things for us!

Take good care of you.

Carol

Haven't visited here in quite a bit, but reading this update all I can say is

[smiley=sayyes.gif] [smiley=sayyes.gif] [smiley=sayyes.gif] [smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif] [smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif] [smiley=clap2.gif] [smiley=headbanger.gif] [smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif] [smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif] [smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif] [smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif] [smiley=applause.gif] [smiley=applause.gif]