[A note from Jannae: Our challenge with getting Dad’s second round of chemo scheduled continues to persist. We had been trying since last week to schedule an appointment with the oncologist Dad saw in the hospital, but our calls and messages went unanswered. The office finally called us back on Monday to notify us that they did not accept Dad’s new insurance which is a PPO, so they were unable to help us any further. A follow up call to confirm if the oncologist had ordered a certain test did go through on the first try, but we were informed that despite seeing this oncologist in the hospital, Dad was not considered an established patient because he had not been seen at any of the clinics and therefore, they were not allowed to talk to us or return any of our calls. It has been an incredibly frustrating and taxing experience to say the least. However, Mom and Dad are at peace with these trials as they are taking it as a sign from God that we should seek care at City of Hope. While City of Hope currently does not have any appointments earlier than Feb. 12 with our desired oncologist, everyone we have talked to there has been very responsive and empathetic to our situation. We ask for continued prayers that God will make the way for Dad getting his next chemo treatment on time.]
On Sunday night (Feb. 2), I had “tummy bubbles” [Jannae aside: This is what our family calls a stomachache normally caused by being gassy.] and labored breathing and ended up throwing up. We finally got hold of the oncologist who recommended going to the ER to confirm that the tumor was not causing an obstruction since it had been enough time since my chemo that she did not think that was the reason for my symptoms. I was seen immediately and had several tests done; however, several questionable incidents occurred during this visit, one that was quite scary. The tests did not show an obstruction, and I got a prescription for acid reflux to help and sent home.
My energy levels have been up and down. I’m being encouraged by my girls to walk and exercise – today I did chair yoga for the first time.
I had a doctor’s appointment today with my primary care physician as a follow up from my hospital stay. I got a lot of good information but I forgot what that information was. While we were waiting for Taylor to pick us up, I got a chance to walk around the parking lot. [Pam aside: Our PCP is a fellow believer, and we are very blessed to see her. She even gave us her personal cell number in case we had an emergency! I was very touched by that.]
Neal (Jannae’s husband) arrived today so now four people have to share a bathroom while I still get my own. 🙂
From Greg Laurie Daily Devotional: “No matter what you’re going through, it will work together for God’s glory and ultimately for your good. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (NLT). God is in control, so we can make the choice to rejoice.” You all are in our prayers.
Praying for you
Praying for all those insurance pieces to fall into place: networks, authorizations, appointments. At least that first chemo was done right away! And thank you, Father, for a primary care physician who is a believer.
¡Hola Art!
This is Val Proo-Garcia, Vincent’s mom.
I’ve read all your “Hospital Diaries”. A big “Thank You” to your girls for helping you publish your health journey!
I was so shocked, as I’m sure you were also, to hear of your diagnosis. Know that I keep you in my thoughts and prayers ?? as well as your family❣️ Jesus is at your side always watching and caring for you ??
Here’s a helpful tip that I’ve learned from having Lupus (SLE) since I was 22 years old. Whenever I have a doc appt, I take notes, ask questions, of course, and write the answers down. And, if the doc allows it, I record their advice on my phone. Then I can always listen to the recording to pickup whatever I missed the first time. Very helpful mainly because, for me at least, all the terminology was new and I had to “Google it” to get a precise picture of what’s happening.
I hope that helps.
Keep up the chair yoga! Keeping the body active is one of the best things you can do. It’s not only physically good for you but mentally, too, especially if you laugh while trying to do those poses! ???