Updated 13 October 2004
Michael worked on his eulogy for a few weeks. Due to time contraints, he had to shorten his eulogy to fit into the time slot. Michael asked me to post a slightly different version of his eulogy. It includes what he read plus a little more.
Bob, Stan's brother, wrote a eulogy right after Stan died. It gives a look at the bond of two brothers over 60-plus years.
I wrote a eulogy also. It is a very healing process to write a eulogy, or at least it was for me. After the funeral I share my eulogy with my family and they asked me to post it. So here it is.
Updated 5 October 2004
There are pictures from Stan's sister-in-law that are online now. I have Michael's eulogy and will get it online soon.
Updated 23 September 2004
Thanks to everyone who came to the service yesterday. It was a beautiful day (weather, spiritually and serive-wise) all around. The walk to the gravesite was a little far, hot and smelly but beautiful nonetheless.
I will get a copy of Mike's eulogy (I think there are at least 3 versions) and put them on line next week.
Updated 6 September 2004
Here are the details for the service. Thanks to Stan's son Michael for putting all the information together in one place.
Many folks have asked about Stan's burial at Arlington National Cemetery. The serive is an open ceremony and all are invited.
The ceremony is Wednesday, Sept 22, 2004 at 10:45. Church services will be at Ft. Meyers in Arlington, Virginia. The interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery. The whole process should take less than 90 minutes. There will be a reception at my mother's house following the ceremony. Everyone is again invited. Directions will be provided at the cemetery. If you wish, you may mapquest to: 5014 Cockney Ct, Annandale, VA, 22003.
For directions to the ceremony, please go to Arlington National Cemetery
off Memorial Drive. Tell the guards you will be attending services for
Stanley Pryzby. They will provide directions to the Ft. Meyer Chapel
via the cemetery entrance. Everyone should bring some
form of pictured ID to get through the checkpoint.
Please check the website for issues regarding foreign nationals.
For more information and directions to Arlington, please
visit the following website:
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/directions.html
Please try to arrive early. It is a military service. It will begin promptly at 10:45. Multiple services are held each day. Also, please try to carpool because parking at the chapel is limited. Those who must park in "overflow" may have a bit of a walk to the chapel.
Thank you to everyone. You have been very supportive and understanding this past year. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, time, cards, Masses, and gifts. Your kindness has brought great solace to our entire family.
We hope to see you all on the 22nd. Please share this website and information with anyone interested.
Click to mail the Family
To leave a message anyone can read
More pictures, including Curly, Uncle Fester
The Washington Post obituary
The Greenfield Recorder obit
SERVICE DETAILS
The funeral is scheduled at Fort Meyer on September 22nd at 10:45 am.
8/15/04
There was another mass today. This one was from Life with Cancer and
held in Springfield. Thank you.
8/13/04
Yesterday Pam had a mass for Stan in Easton. Thank You.
8/12/04
Last night was Jeremy's play. Stan was proud of Jeremy's acting skilll
and I know he was there laughing with the rest of us. Jeremy played
'Bullfrog' in Honk, JR (The Musical). It was perfect for him as the
character was funny in his own mind. Of course Jeremy played it over the
top. Spiked green mohawk with a tiedye and round sunglasses. For some
reason I pictured Ozzie Osbourne when I saw him there. Margo, Zophia,
Geri, Rita, John, Karen, John, Susannah, Rachel, Marco, Elle, Gabrella,
Zen, Andy, Yvette, Susanah, Kevin, Laurie, Paul and Casey all made it to
see Jeremy. It was great to have such a turn out.
8/11/04
Two weeks and 4 hours ago Stan passed away. It is hard to
believe. No matter how much you 'prepare' for it, you are never
ready. Those who have lost a parent say it will sink in. However,
I find that hard to believe. I still see the picture of Stan
and Jeremy that I have in my cube and can't believe that he isn't
at home or on another trip with Geri.
Tonight is Jeremy's play, Honk. I know Stan will have a front seat for the show and wouldn't miss it.
8/10/04
Pam Black had a mass said for Stan in Easton, Maryland. Geri went to
the service with her friend Nan. After mass Geri, Nan, Jim and Diane
went to dinner. It was a nice day.
8/9/04
Not much going on right now. Geri is busy with the finances and receiving
letters, emails, gifts, etc.
8/4/04
Cathy left this morning but Greg and Michael came by in the afternnon
to start working on the finances.
8/3/04
Geri's company has left. Her sister is here until tomorrow. Slowly things
are getting done.
Geri and Cathy were going to go shopping but ended up in the slots in West Virginia playing nickels for Stan. Of course Geri decided to play a few in the dollar machine and hit a jackpot. Low enough that she didn't get a W-2, but pretty darn close.
8/2/04
Most of the out of town company is gone and things are starting to settle
down. Michael and Greg are back at work and trying to get back into the
swing of things. Geri is starting to make lists of what needs to be done.
8/1/04
First a big thank you to everyone who helped us over the
weekend. I know I will forget people, but know that you are appreciated
also. I want to thank my parents' neighbors. While we were at the
service, they cooked food and set up the house so when we returned, we
could eat. I want to thank everyone who sent their condolences, notes,
emails, and attended the service. It was great to see people I hadn't
seen in many (20+) years and others that I only knew by name.
7/30/04
An uneventful day. Mary Gail, Jake and Sara arrived from out of town. The
rest of the krewe arrive tomorrow.
7/29/04
It is the morning of the 29th and I wanted to write something this
morning. Yesterday was a very busy day as you can imagine. Geri, Bob,
Michael and I went to the funeral home and made arrangements. It was
much easier that I had imagined.
Yesterday we heard from quite a few people and the number of kind words and thoughts shared were amazing. Hopefully during these times everyone takes a minute to think about all the people who have influenced them and takes a moment to contact that person (mentally or physically) and thank them.
Those who knew Stan knew that honesty and fairness were very important to him. His attitude also was always (well, most of the time) very positive. Stan always tried to find the positive and usually was successful.
Jeanne arrived on Thursday nite and we all went to McCormick & Schmicks. It was hard because over the last few years this had become one of their favorite places. Because it is around the corner from Greg and his family they often received a call to meet them for dinner or they stopped by after dinner. It was nice to see a good number of the staff stop by to offer condolences to Geri and the family. Although M&S is a chain, our treatment has always been like a neighborhood place.
7/28/04
Stan made his final journey at 4:06 am today. Around 2 am Stan settled
into the pillow and relaxed. Geri, Michael and the nurse were with
him. Greg and Bob got up at 4 am and was there when Stan died. It was
very peaceful and believe it or not, beautiful to see him go so peacefully.
This Sunday, August 1st, there will be a visitation at Demaine Funeral Home in Springfield, VA from 3 pm until 6 pm. The funeral is scheduled at Fort Meyer on September 22nd at 10:45 but that date is subject to change.
If you would like to send a private message to the family, please send mail to Memorial at Pryzby dot Org. You can also leave a message online that others will be able to read.
For those who would like to do something for Stan or the family, please consider making a donation in Stan Pryzby's name to Life with Cancer or Capital Hospice of Northern Virginia
To make a contribution by mail to Life With Cancer, please send a check
or money order to:
Glenda Selvage, Business Manager
Life with Cancer Family Center
2832 Juniper Street, Suite 203
Fairfax , Virginia 22031
To make a contribution by mail to Capital Hospice of Northern Virginia,
please send a check or money order to:
Capital Hospice of Northern Virginia
9300 Lee Highway Suite 500
Fairfax, VA 22031
7/27/04
Stan is a fighter. The family has gathered a few times, but each time
Stan decides he is ready yet and continues with us.
7/26/04
Another day with wonderful support. The continuous care staff
is wonderful. They are working to keep Stan comfortable and
relaxed. Yesterday, Ti, Nikki and Laurie came by to visit. Margo,
Jeremy and Zophia came back also to see Stan in the evening. No major
changes. His respirations were done to 4 and were up to 10.
7/25/04
It was a long and tough day. Bob, Mike, Geri, Greg, Margo, Jeremy and
Zophia spent the day with Stan. He had a smile on his face all day as
he listened to Linda Edders on the stereo. Hospice continuous care is
here now and help Stan stay comfortable. Stan was peaceful and rested for
most of the day and night. Stan's nephew Rob was in town for the weekend
and went home Sunday afternoon. Phil and Pat stopped by late to check
in on the family. There will be an update later in on Monday.
7/24/04
The nursing staff has been excellent. Bob has also helped tremendously in
giving Geri a break. Stan's day was all over the map. In the morning he
was pretty tired and slow. However in the afternoon, he was wide awake
for a pre-birthday party for Zophia. Cole, Dawn and Barbara stopped by
in the morning also. After a bench clearing brawl the Red Sox beat the
Yankees so it was a good day overall.
7/23/04
Yesterday was a very long and hard day. Stan's brother Bob is back in
town. Stan's nephew Rob is here also. There was a pleasant surprise
last night as the phone rang and Geri found out that a CNA and LPN were
assigned to the case for 24 hour care. This will be reviewed on Monday
to determine if the needs have changed. What this does do is give Geri
a break as there will be a medical professional and Bob to help over
the weekend.
7/22/04
A long day yesterday for Geri. Stan was weak and didn't do very much.
7/21/04
Yesterday the chair was installed on the stairs so Stan can get up and
down the stairs. Lots of visits by different people in hospice. Life
with Cancer brought dinner one day this week (sorry I forgot to mention
that earlier).
7/20/04
Margo and Zophia visited Stan and everyone had a good time. Stan spent
the day in bed as he didn't have much strength.
7/19/04
Stan spent all day in the bedroom. Not much energy for the day and lots
of sleeping.
7/18/04
Lots of visitors stopped by to see Stan. Cathy, George, Christy, Dave
and Caroline drove up from Chesapeake to say hello. David and his family
were in town and stopped by also. Cole and Dawn came by also and Stan
enjoyed the company. The Red Sox won again which was a pleasant surprise.
7/17/04
Pretty good day overall. A shower was the highlight of the day. That and
a visit from all three grandkids. Pain was minimal. During the evening
Stan sat down with Michael and Greg to go through US Mint sets and look
at some of the coins he has collected over the years. 1878 Liberty Head
Silver Dollars, 1907 One Dollar Bill and a paper 'One Silver Dollar'
(forget the year) were some of the highlights.
7/16/04
Greg spent the day with Stan and Michael came over in the afternoon. We
sent Geri away for a needed rest. Pretty good day overall. As the day
wears on, Stan becomes tired and naps off and on. We will see what night
brings. Hopefully some rest for all.
7/15/04
Yesterday was the first time in a few weeks that there has been nobody
staying with Stan and Geri. The day went ok although there wasn't a
nap. Pain has diminished.
7/14/04
Hospice came by today and Stan meet the doctor assigned to his team. She
is a wonderful person and Stan and Geri enjoyed talking with her. Stan
sounded tired when I spoke with him this afternoon, but he was on the
computer for a bit and feeling pretty good.
7/13/04
Pretty good day overall. There was sleep overnight and a rested day.
7/12/04
Stan and Geri both got a fair amount of sleep.
10 pm
Stan spend most of the day resting/sleeping. Geri is exhausted and will
hopefully get some sleep.
11 am
Stan is getting his chemo-- his blood and strength were good enough to
receive chemo which as you can imagine has made him very happy.
3:30 pm
Chemo is about done and Stan slept through most of it. Hopefully he will
sleep tonight also since Geri didn't sleep during Chemo. Michael and
Stan's brother Bob hung out during the procedure and went on food runs.
7/11/04
Jeremy and Zophia visited today and delivered their weekly doughnuts. By
the end of the visit Stan was tired and decided to crawl into bed to
watch the Red Sox. Of course they couldn't sweep and lost. Tomorrow is
the doctor's office to see if he can receive chemo.
7/10/04
Pretty good day. Stan got some rest and changed his meds.
7/9/04
A good day overall. A number of people stopped by, so by the late
afternoon Stan was pretty tired and going to take a nap. Elaine and
Harris brought a delicious dinner what was much appreciated.
7/8/04
OK day overall. The hospice nurse and physical trainer came by to meet
the family. Patty and Lynn are wonderful people (of course!). Last night
was Linda Edders at Wolf Trap and Stan, Geri, Bob and Jeannie attended
the show. Early reports are that it was a nice time.
7/7/04
Stan and Geri are very tired. Hopefully there will be more than catnaps
this evening. Radiation went well and there is 1 treatment left. Pain
hasn't been bad however Stan's legs are having trouble getting started.
7/6/04
Radation happened and it wasn't bad. So Thursday is the last day for
this round. Pain was manageable all day. The ankle was swollen, but
nothing to get over excited about.
7/5/04
Not much sleep last night, but the pain is minimal. So you can't ask for
much more than that. Stan's ankle/foot had slight swelling, but nothing
to worry about. Radiation continues tomorrow.
7/4/04
Stan's brother is in town. A pretty good day overall for Stan. He even
stood without his walker a little bit.
7/3/04
Stan had a pretty good day. Not much moving around, but the pain was
minimal during the day. By dinner it was starting. Hopefully he will
have a better night and get some sleep. Maybe the Red Sox will finally
win a game also!
7/2/04
Stan went home today. He is working on figuring out how to be comfortable
and get around the upstairs. There was some pain this evening as he
tried to get back in the groove.
7/1/04
Stan will go home on Friday or Saturday. Today we learned the the cancer
is back in the lungs. Right now they will finish radiation of the back
and if Stan is up for it they will try another chemo and see what happens.
6/30/04
Stan is back in the hospital. His legs are weak and he is having trouble
walking. Today he received CT of the brain, lungs, abdomen and pelvis.
6/26/04
A strange turn of events. This morning the doctor discharged Stan 48
hours earlier than expected. Stan made it home and spent the day trying
to get back in the swing of things. Pain is definitely less than last
week although it is still there. Eight more radiation treatments also.
6/25/04
11:00 a.m.
Pretty good night. Stan got his radiation and all went well. The doctor is
moving Stan to oral drugs to see how he reacts. If the pain in manageable,
then he will go home on Monday. Until then it is hanging out at the
hospital wishing time moved faster.
6/24/04
2:30 p.m.
Stan will be in the hospital until Monday, possibly longer. The doctor
is worried that there will be swelling after the radiation and wants
to monitor the situation. So to receive the medicene, he needs to be
in the hospital. In the long run it will help with pain management and
makes sure Stan is ok. In the short term is sucks to be in the hospital
for 8 or more days.
6/23/04
4:30 p.m.
The doctor stopped by and there is cancer at the base of the spine that
is causing the pain. The solution is 10 (ten) radiation treatments, very
similar to what was done to the brain. Of course everyone is happy that
the location of the tumor is such that treatment is possible. Also that
we now know what is causing the pain and there is a plan of attack. Stan
will be at the hospital until Friday. Stan got his tatoo today and
radiation starts in the morning.
6/22/04
9:30 p.m.
Stan finally got his MRI after a number of phone calls. It was painful as
expected (try laying still in a tube w/ loud clanking noises for over 90
minutes) but it is over. Because it finished so late, we hope to get some
results in the morning. The doctor said Thursday would be the earliest for
discharge. Hopefully that will hold. One benefit of being in the hospital
is if Stan needs radiation, it will get started sooner as an in-patient.
2 p.m.
Stan is in the hospital and still waiting for the MRI. He is receiving
meds for the pain and it is helping. He wants to be home of course and
doesn't like getting stuck, but I was there for about 6 hours today and
he is doing pretty good.
If you are trying to reach Geri, be aware that her cell if off at the hospital and she doesn't get home until late and leaves very early. If there is a change in condition, we will let people know. Until then, I am going to work on updating the site as I get info.
6/21/04
Lots of pain over the weekend. Monday morning the doctor decided to admit
Stan and try to get the pain under control. They are not sure what is
going on but will perform the MRI soon and try to figure it out.
6/17/04
Today Jeremy performed in his school's Talent Show. One hour and twenty
minutes into the show (after watching other kids, the family realizes how
talented Jeremy is!) and Jeremy took the stage and finised to thunderous
applause. Of course this isn't about Jeremy but Stan and Geri came to
the show which meant a very early departure to make it to Reston at 8:30
am. Stan's back started hurting this week and the cause is unknown at
this point. Stan sees the doctor on Monday and will have an MRI sometime
after that-- one hour and thirty minutes in the machine. The pain is bad
right now, but luckly Stan had some meds to help with the pain and he
is using them (after Greg and Geri keep riding him about it). Hopefully
we will know more next week. The preliminary report from the doctor is
things are looking "good".
6/15/04
I know it has been some time since the last update. Mostly because now
the chemotherapy is done and not much is going on. Overall Stan is doing
ok. There is still numbness in the extremities, but energy is slowly
(very slowly) improving. Today Stan and Geri went to the movies. They
try to get out of the house two out of three days I would say. While it
can be hard to get motivated, it is good for Stan. Stan has had a number
of tests and will see the Doctor on the 21st.
6/8/04
Stan slept a fair amount today. He has some numbness, but thinks things
are getting better. It has been three weeks since the last chemo. Michael
and Cole stopped by for a visit today.
6/11/04
The server has been done and so there haven't been any updates. Over
the last few days Stan and Geri have been pretty good. Energy is up
on Friday. They saw Bill Cosby on Wednesday night and that went well
also. We are going into teh weekend and because the heat wave has broken,
we hope it is a good one!
6/7/04
Numbness is less and energy is so-so. Stan and Geri went out for dinner
which is always good.
6/6/04
Stan was tired in the morning and went back to sleep. A late night
will do that. Stan felt under the weather and took some meds for the
stomache. They had visitors and an OK rest of the day.
6/5/04
Pretty good day overall. Stan and Geri came to see Jeremy's play. After
the play, they went to Greg, Margo, Jeremy, and Zohpia's for dinner. Greg
and Margo had some friends over and the dinner broke up around 10 or
10:30 pm. A VERY long day for Stan. But he did great and talking the
entire time. Of course we will see what tomorrow brings.
6/4/04
Stan and Geri went to visit friends for lunch today. Stan's energy is
slowly returning and we hope that trend continues. Geri's ear was worse
though so she came home and laid down.
6/3/04
Geri has an ear infection in the other ear. Stan went our for lunch
with Geri and to do some shopping. All went ok although Stan was happy
to get home to rest.
6/2/04
Better day today. Stan and Geri's friend visited for an hour or two
which was nice. During that time power went out, so Stan and Geri went
out for dinner. When they got home, power had been restored. Stan's
medicine arrived yesterday and he started taking it.
6/1/04
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1/25/04
Stan had his brain scan today and I assume they found it
Geri has a touch of something, so it was a long night for her on their
anniversary. Margo took over some medicine that seemed to help. Stan
was doing well in the morning, but the numbness in the feet crept back
into the day. Tomorrow is brain scan for Stan. Hopefully everyone will
be well tomorrow.
A pretty good Anniversary (40th) for Stan and Geri. They declined their
gift from their sons but did make it out for lobster. However, Dawn did
get 2 cakes and deliver them. And if they were from the same place Greg
and Margo's cake came from, stop by for a piece!
Stan got in the hot tub today. He is still wobbly on the feet and not
doing great. Michael, Dawn and Cole came for a visit which lifted his
spirits. However, tomorrow is their 40th wedding anniversary.
Blah day for Stan. Not much to report. Cole called to sing parts of
"feelings" which was a nice way to end the day.
Feet are numb and hands swollen. But Stan and Geri did get to the movies
with friends today.
Stan saw the Dr today. The tumor marker was higher than the recent past
(150 but not over a 1000 when this started) but the Dr isn't worried. Stan
will start a new chemo drug in pill form (innesa?) and get scans over the
next 3 weeks and see the Dr after that. So it is wait and see now. Stan
still has some discomfort, but he is doing ok.
Another sore day with bed rest and the computer. Tomorrow they see the
Dr and we will see if Stan feels better or the Dr can make suggestions
to obtain some relief.
Not a good day. Stan felt like his feet were swollen and had some trouble
with balance. Lots of time resting and hoping that it will pass soon.
Lots of visiting for Stan and Geri today. Greg, Margo, Jeremy and
Zophia went over in the morning and stay until early afternoon. The
visit went well. Later in the day Stan and Geri went to visit Michael,
Dawn and Cole. Another good visit and a chance to get out. Here is to
a good week and getting the poison (chemo) out of the body.
HOT here in DC. To hot to do much of anything, so lots of relaxing
inside with sore legs. Stan and Geri did have dinner with friends,
so there was a trip outside the house.
Sore legs! With the shot for the white blood cells this week Stan knew
the legs would start to hurt-- and they did.
Full feeling is back. But chicken soup for dinner and playing thinking
games on the computer are filling the days.
Back to the Doctor's for the final shots. Stan and Geri went to listen
and support Dr. Spira (he was giving a talk). Stan is drinking more
liquids this time. Doing pretty good overall.
Last Chemo!!!! Stan made it through the last chemo though the vein didn't
and they had to move to another.
Pretty slow day. Stan got some computer time in and prepared himself
for his last chemo round of this cocktail.
Ok day yesterday. Mike, Dawn and Cole stopped by for a visit. Of course
a visit from the family (especially grandchildern) is always a plus and
makes for a good day. Stan said he was 'feeling funky'. Less than 48
hour until the current chemo regement ends.
Last night was the LobsterFest for Life With Cancer. The even was fun and
well attended (almost 1000 people). A 17' boat was auctioned off. The
value was $23,000 and it sold for $40,000. So there was a little money
raised last night. Stan was there serving lobster and Geri served
steaks. Stan did good for working all day and into the night. Last chemo
is scheduled for Tuesday.
Nice quite day. Stan took it easy around the house and felt pretty
good. I know the details have fallen off. Stan is coming up on his 6th
and final chemo using the current mix. As the chemicals accumulate,
the effects are longer lasting-- the tiredness and lack of energy. As
the last one approaches we hope for a quick recoervy and for Stan to
start getting back to his old self.
Stan and Geri worked at the Lobsterfest and had a good day. It was hot,
but productive.
Yesterday Stan and Geri got out for some errands and went to dinner with
friends. Getting out of the house is always a good thing. Tomorrow they
start working on the LobsterFest-- inventory time.
Not much happened yesterday. Napping and taking it easy in the heat.
Not a very good night as sleep was interrupted. Stan is still feeling
full although he does have more energy.
Sleep is good for Stan and Geri. Both are getting some well deserved
rest. Body and mind are doing well. A nice Mother's Day for Geri.
Another great night of sleep and good day with energy. The numbness and
tingling are present, but not too bad. The return of energy is much more
important and helps dealing with the side effects.
Good day overall. Energy is returning and Stan slept well all night.
Didn't get much of an update today. Stan slept well and had a good
day. Not much else for today.
Not sure there is any better news that Stan could receive than he did
today. Dr Spira was very pleased that Stan is doing so well. The liver
and other parts are clear from what they can tell. Dr Spira does want him
to have the last of 6 chemos in 2 weeks. After that it beomes a waiting
game to see when the cancer will come back. There is a new (experimental)
drug that was in the news 2 weeks ago that they are giving lung cancer
patients and Stan will probably start that. Through medicine, doctor's
care, prayers, good thoughts and pure dumb luck, Stan is doing very
well. Once the chemo ends the hope is the numbness and forgetfulness
will subside. Thanks to everyone who reads this and sends their positive
energy,
Tomorrow is Dr Spira for a check up. Stan has tingling and numbness as
well as being tired. Not a good night of sleep. Hopefully things will
improve before too long.
Stan and Geri got out to run some errands yesterday. There was enough
energy to run the errands, so that is a good sign.
Greg, Margo, Jeremy and Zophia visited for the afternoon and ended up
staying for dinner. Good visit and Stan was doing pretty good.
Easy going day on the computer and watching the Red Sox drop 2 games.
Stan had about a 7 for energy. He did spend part of the day sleeping
but made it out for a little while in the early evening. There are plans
for Saturday, so cross your fingers that he feels up to doing them.
Today Stan felt tingling in both feet and became rather tired this afternoon.
The Red Sox had a double header, so he watched the first game and
took a nap. Dinner is done and it is back to bed for more baseball and
resting. Stan still "feels full". The doctor said if there is no pain,
not much to worry about. The hadns are feeling good.
Stan got the rest of his shots (post-chemo) and is feeling better than
he did during the last three weeks. Chances are good the legs will hurt
over the weekend (from the shot that generates white-blood cells) but
the numbness is gone. Stan also has more energy than during the last
three weeks.
Chemo today. Stan said he had more energy ater the chemo than in the
last three weeks. Hopefully this treatment and following weeks will go
better than the last.
Tomorrow is chemo day. Stan was feeling ok, but never got that full blown
'back to normal' feeling this round. Hopefully tomorrow will go well
and Stan will do better this round.
Not much to report. Not 100%, so resting and baseball.
Pretty slow day for Stan. Mike, Dawn and Cole visited. For some reason,
Stan has not had the bounce back that he did after the last chemo. Lots
of sleeping yesterday and a generally malaise.
Quiet day resting, computer and baseball.
Good day. Stan and Geri went to the movies and dinner. Both are feeling
better. Chemo on Tuesday though. Slow updates over the weekend are possible but it will be caught up by Sunday afternoon.
Much better day today. Stan was feeling better and getting around some. Of
course next chemo is next week, so getting better just in time for
chemo. Don't forget to mail Stan
or Geri.
Better day today. Stan and Geri went out for lunch and felt pretty
good. More energy today, so hopefully this session's damage is coming
to a close.
4/19/04
Very sore legs today. Another day of rest and hopefully as the week
wears on, Stan will start to feel better.
Not too good of a day. Stan and Geri did make it to the Kennedy Center,
but Stan just isn't feeling great. A day of rest.
Stan and Geri went to the Kennedy Center this evening, so they must be
feeling better. Geri drove to DC which was great because they were able
to see the show.
Not much to report. The tingling in the extremities is getting better
and starting to feel better. The legs are sore like the first time
also. The good weather should help though. Let's hope for improvement
over the weekend.
Hopefully everyone sent in their taxes by now! It was an ok day. The
weather is better (sunny, but WINDY). I think Stan is feeling the post
chemo blues like last time. Hopefully the warm weather on the way will
help and some good nights of sleep.
Stan saw Dr. Spira today. The improvement in the last 2.5 (two and a half)
month is miraculous. This is no other way to describe it. Dr. Spira
was beside himself with how well Stan has reacted to the chemo. Stan
will get a 5th chemo in a few weeks (3?) and if he is still feeling well,
there will be a 6th 3 weeks later. At that point the plan is to monitor
blood every 4 weeks and scans (at some regular frequency) to see how
long the cancer stays away. Today Stan really understood how serious the
situation was and how well he has fought the cancer. A truly wonderful
day.
Weather in the area is terrible-- rainy and cold. Thursday is suppose
to be a break in weather. Why are you reading about weather, because
cold weather lends itself to the blahs, which is how Stan feels.
Ok day today. Stan went to get CT scan done and Dr. Spira will read
the films on Wednesday. Some pain today and taking it easy. Probably
has something to do with the 50 degrees and rain here in DC. Rain until
Thursday although we are suppose to warm up to 60 degrees. Is this
really April?
So Stan and Geri decided to take a trip over the weekend and it well very
well. Both of them were not feeling 100% on Friday, but they decided to
trip to Atlantic City and promised each other to
take it easy. They did and had a good time. Geri won money of course
(a fraction of last time) and Stan didn't lose any. They are home and
doing well. Pictures should arrive sometime this week and they will be
posted when they arrive. Stan and Geri also visited Cole on Easter.
Feeling good today. The legs were not too sore, some Tylenol did the trick.
Not much to report as Greg was out of town and didn't get a chance to talk
to Stan. The legs were a little sore in the morning, but no idea how they
were by the end of the day. If the past is an indicator, they were sore.
Stan, Mike and Greg went to see the Red Sox
play the O's at Camden Yards. There was some rain and it was cold and the
Red Sox lost in 13, but we had fun. We left after 8 1/2 innings since we
knew we weren't going to stay for extra innings and the Sox weren't going
to win in 9! BIG THANK YOU to Mike for getting those awesome tickets
behind home plate. It is really a different game from any other seats
in the house (I have sat pretty much everywhere else). Updates maybe
slow of the weekend, but they will happen at some point.
Pretty good day overall. Stan took it easy in preparation for the Red
Sox game on Thursday. He is conserving his strength so he can make it
to the game. Geri is feeling better also and will see the doctor on
Thursday for a check of the ear.
Blood work was great (markers have gone from 5,000 to 500 to
50 today!) so Stan got his 4th chemo-cocktail. All went well,
so well in fact Stan and Geri decided to visit their friends at McCormick
& Schmicks. As usually, the company and food was excellent. Greg
was able to meet them for dinner also. Tomorrow Stan has his white blood
cell shot and some more meds. Hopefully he will stay feeling up to see
the Red Sox on Thursday night. Michael was able to get some excellent
seats to see the O's and Red Sox.
Geri got to the doctor today to learn that her eardrum HAD ruptured and
she had an infection or two (one was fungal). All is better now that
it is cleaned and he will go back on Thursday for a check. Stan had
a pretty good day. Tomorrow is chemo day and depending on the numbness
and blood work, he will or won't get his treatment. In theory this will
be the last chemo of this cocktail. Of course things are subject to
change. All is well though and both Stan and Geri are feeling better.
Stan was doing great today. Margo commented that 'he was back to the ole
Stan'. Unfortunately, Geri is pain with her ear infection and hopefully
will be able to see a specialist tomorrow and get some relief. Jeremy and
Zophia went for a visit (Geri insisted) and had a good time. Cole brought
Dawn and Michael by so the whole family was there at one point. Three
kids can make a commotion! But I know Stan and Geri enjoyed it. Chemo is
on tap for Tuesday and Michael has scored some primo seats for Thursday
night to see the Red Sox in Baltimore.
Stan didn't have a chance to feel bad today. He was busy trying to
take care of Geri who can't shake this illness. The antibiotics are not
providing any relief. The doctors think it might be a ruptured eardrum
based on how it is not responding to meds nor getting better. Regardless
they have asked to see Jeremy and Zophia tomorrow, so they will go over
for a visit.
Stan is still feeling good, even if the printer is taunting him! Geri
is under the weather though. Hopefully the medicine will start working
soon and she will be up and around.
A good day for Stan. The weather is terrible (cold and rainy) so it is
hard to get motivated, but there are no aches or pains. Justing waiting
for chemo on Tuesday.
A good day today. Stan and Geri volunteered for
Life With Cancer today by
stuffing envelopes for the annual LobsterFest. Since there isn't a direct link to the info for the event, here is what you need to know:
Lobster Extravaganza, May 15, 2004
Join us for a night under the stars at Life with Cancer's 6th Annual
Lobster Extravaganza on Saturday, May 15, 2004. This unique event features
a lobster or steak dinner with all the trimmings, live music, dancing,
live and silent auctions, all to benefit Life with Cancer programs
and services. For information about tickets or sponsorship levels call
703-785-8050. This fund raiser has sold out in previous years.
Not much to report. A pretty good day for Stan. Yes, I am writing this
a day late. I will work to post daily!
Stan and Geri had a good day. Two meals out and a trip to Costco and
they both feel good. There was even a trip to West Virginia for some
gambling. No winnings to report this time though.
Stan felt pretty good. The weather was wonderful so Stan went on to the
deck to relax, and took a nap.
I am writing this on the 29th, as I didn't add anything over the
weekend. Saturday was a pretty good day considering all the things Stan
and Geri did on Friday. They did go to the
Life With Cancer event and
had a great time. The rest of the day was taken pretty easy.
The day is going well. A trip to the manicurist followed by lunch at Chez
Andre and Stan still feels good. Stan was tempted to get in the hot tub,
but common sense took over and he won't push it today. There is a
Life With Cancer event
this evening and Stan and Geri might attend. I know I mentioned
this group earlier and I want to tell everyone again, they are
GREAT. If you are looking for a charity, this is one
of the good ones.
Stan had agood day today. Energy is back and he is feeling pretty
good. Geri was under the weather though and tried to rest most of the day.
Stan saw the doctor today. Before he gets his next chemo, they will run
some tests and decide if he is done with this chemo mix. The numbness is
back in his hand some. Greg told Stan he can have the numbness or cancer,
so numbness isn't such a bad choice.
Late with the entry, sorry! Greg and Margo had lunch with Stan and Geri
yesterday and he wasn't at 100% yet. The legs were better and feeling
a little better, but this chemo is taking its toll.
Each day is a little better. Stan had more strength today and spent a
good part of the day on the computer. Tomorrow is a lunch outing and
here is to Stan being up for it.
Stan got out of the house long enough to see his grandkids, take
his brother and wife to the airport and swing by to see Greg for a
manicure. Of course the kids wanted him to watch a DVD feature (5 minutes)
that he hasn't had the chance to see yet. Then it was time to head home
for some oxygen and rest. Stan is on the computer this evening but the
legs still hurt. Hopefully since the legs are feeling a little better,
tomorrow will be a bigger improvement. Stan believes the chemo is working
its way out of his body.
On schedule, the legs continue to hurt. Tomorrw should be the start of
the turn around.
Feeling better today as Stan got out of bed. Late in the day, the legs
strated to hurt, which is what was expected. Lots of basketball watching
along with some computer time.
Not a good day. As a matter of fact, Stan called it the worse day since
this started. Just no energy and feeling lousy.
Not a bad day. Getting the 'stuff' into the veins today was hard as they
veins would not cooperate. Overall feeling good and getting
along. Although Bob and Stan decided to work on the computer and we able
to 'lose' data which kept them busy for the afternoon as they found it
and got it working. I 'blame' Bob as Stan has never lost TurboTax data in
the past (although he has misplaced other data from time to time). Sounds
like the visit from Kansas is going well.
Chemo went well today. Blood was good and markers were down. Stan even
finished early. Stan and Geri got out at a reasonable hour and missed
rushed hour. Stan's brother and wife made it in town and to the house
(thanks Bob and Ellen) in time for dinner. I am sure the next few days
will be slow and easy.
Missed this day. That means there wasn't a lot to report.
As predicted, yesterday was a busy day which resulted in a relaxing
day today. A nap and visit from Mike, Dawn and Cole was most of
the day. Stan's brother and wife are visiting this week as well as
chemotherapy.Since there is chemo, there is a white blood cell booster
shot and then lower leg pain. A fun week coming! Hopefully the nausea
will stay away as it had with the previous treatments.
Stan and Geri made it out to see Jeremy's latest play, School Daze. The
trip out went fine and Stan was ready for dinner at Dolce Vida
afterwards. It was a long day and Stan was pretty tired by time he got
home. but it was a good day nonetheless.
Not much to report. Stan took it pretty easy today. He did go up and down the stairs a few times though. Because Thursday was such a busy day, taking it easy was a smart idea.
The appointment with Dr. Spira went well-- after Stan finished
jesting. The treatment is going well and counts are high enough that Stan
didn't need the shot for red blood cell generation. After the appointment
Stan and Geri went to Reston Hospital to visit Allen Atwell who broke his
other hip (the first one was last year around this time) 2 days ago. Allen
is doing well and it was a great visit. Of course since they were in
Reston, they had to stop at McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant to
visit their friends and lunch. Everyone was surprised and happy to see
them. It was a very nice lunch (Greg stopped by for a few minutes since
he works at Reston Town Center now) and it hit the spot. Another good
day as energy is up and running high going into chemotherapy next week.
A productive day for Stan. After getting his taxes done (well, still going
to recheck a few more times), Stan almost finished 'Split Second'. So
computer, numbers, and reading today. A pretty good day filled with
different activities. TOmorrow is a checkup with the doctor. Nothing
expected to come of it (besides, Looks Good). Stan's brother Bob is due
in town next week for work and a visit.
OK day overall. Stan and Geri did go to the bank, K*Mart and Trader
Joes. So the positive is they got out of the house for multiple
errands. Stan is tired and resting since they got back.
Not much to report today. Geri is back and taken back the daily care
and feeding of Stan. Reports were that he was having a good day. Look
forward to more a in depth report tomorrow.
Pretty good day today. Stan got some sleep, but he ate well
AND went for a walk. I (Greg) said he didn't get
lunch until he exercised. Stan did really well on the walk around the
cul-de-sac and it turns out the walk was just far enough to push him to
his limit. Geri got home and filled us in on the weekend festivities and
the number of people she saw who wished Stan well. Thanks again to Mike
for helping.
Stan wasn't full of energy today. Not a bad day, but not one where he
was motivated either. Maybe it was staying up late playing his new Tiger
Woods Golf Game (thanks Uncle Bob!). Or maybe it is Geri being away. Geri
had to *great* things happen on her trip. You will have to
ask her for details though. It is isn't for
me to divulge. Ribs for dinner, so Stan wasn't feeling too bad.
Geri has left the house! She went to Atlantic City with Nan Kronz for a
rest and try to win some money to pay the bills (LOL). Bob Annis came
by to help and Michael is there until Saturday afternoon when I take
the last shift. A very complicated procedure for the hand off! I *think*
Stan will survive the weekend. Stan is feeling pretty good today. Nothing
much to report.
Not much to report today. Stan spent most of the day on the computer. He
was tired this morning b ut has more energy this afternoon. I guess
putting the email link at the top of the page has made a difference,
as a few of you emailed him yesterday.
Today Stan and Geri got out for a time. They got their nails done and
had lunch at Chez Andre.
Another day down. The medical issue yesterday that got them into the
doctor's office yesterday was gone today. Stan was on the computer most of
the day. You could find him on IM. I believe that is a good thing. Since
they have to pay for the AOL connection now, they might as well use it
as much as possible!
Off to CAT scans this morning. Stan is still at a 6 (out of 10) for how
he feels. They are going to visit the Dr today for a checkin to make
sure everything is ok. The Doctor looked at the scans and while nothing
is conclusive, there appear to be a significant decrease of masses in
the lungs. The steroids were cut back to 20 mg a day. Stan does NOT have
to see the doctor on Thursday of this week, the appointment was moved
to next week.
Happy Birthday Stan! Here are the photos of the
birthday. Well, the day didn't start out well as Jeremy is sick
(thinking strep), Stan's legs were hurting, he was tired and we had to
change venue. When we arrived, he was asleep and stayed asleep while we
set up. When Stan woke, he was feeling pretty good and came out for a
visit and lunch. Michael and Margo prepared a wonderful spread that was
enjoyed by all. Lots of Hawaiian decorations and food. Everyone said
they enjoyed the food and I agree-- it was delicious! By the end of
the evening Stan was tired and retired to the bed for a well deserved
rest. I didn't know if he would be able to eat more, but yes-- he was
eating dinner in bed.
Today is Geri's birthday! Happy Birthday to you! Of course her birthday
is over shadowed by Stan's birthday tomorrow, but just because is every
4 years (instead of every year!). Things were good today. Stan got to
shower himself in his own shower, which is nice. A friend came to visit
and they spoke for quite a long time. So long, Stan had to take a nap
and didn't get a chance to play cribbage. Maybe this coming week.
Right on schedule-- the legs started to hurt due to the white blood cell
shot. They say 48 hours after the shot, your legs (shins) will start
to hurt, it it has held true for both shots. The rest of the day was
well. I think there was pulled pork and bbq ribs today. The cravings
were strong ;)
Pretty good day so far. Stan isn't feeling 100% but he did shower by
himself in his bathroom. This means he could step into the high tub and
didn't need a seat or help. Positive steps. Stan is ready for a few
days down after the chemo. The goal is to be back on top Saturday or
Sunday. We will see.
Stan felt great today. So good, he decided he needed to go out for
a meal after he received his shot for white blood cells. Not much to
report besides feeling good.
Yoo-Rah! Stan is still getting chemo at 1530 and they were there at 0900. The great news is he didn't need a shot for red blood, his platelets are up and his oxygen level was at 97 after being off oxygen all day! I am sure he is will sleep this evening as didn't get much sleep last night.
Chemo is tomorrow. THe pain is gone which is great. But chemo is looming
on the horizon. Tomorrow will be a long day. Hopefully some sleep tonight
will allow Stan and Geri to ready themselves for the day.
We all went to visit today. Spirits were good and pain was gone. Stan is
more or less off the oxygen. It is on an as needed basis. We took the
Sunday morning donuts along for the visit. Visitors were coming this
afternoon for their first birthday celebration.
I think the prospect of chemo is starting to weigh in. No pain meds
for a couple of days. I think the appetite is down also which coudl be
because the steroids were decreased.
Saw Stan today and he is doing great. He stays off the oxygen and
when he is on it, it is set at 3 (down from 5). He sleeps at night
without it also. Stan's mind is clear and he is on the computer more
and more these days.
Good night sleep and feeling great. The Doctor said the lungs sounded good
and to continue to wean from oxygen. Stan is looking and feeling good so
all signs say he is doing good. Chemo is next week, so we will see how
that goes this time. Stan's birthday is a week from Sunday (the 29th)
and he plans on coming to Greg and Margo's for his birthday. A day out!
No radiation today. Stan is feelign pretty good. Although he isn't
sleeping through the night yet. The pain is definitely less. A checkin
with the doctor tomorrow to make sure all is ok. Our belief is that it
is to make sure pain management is going ok and all bleeding has stopped
(from coughing) which it has.
Radiation is done! YEA!
Another good day. Pain isn't bad ass the pills are doing a pretty good
job. He is taking them at night and is without pain or meds during the
day (mostly). Of course the appetite is still up. Spirits are still high.
I got a call on Sunday telling me it had started; his hair was falling
out in clumps. Well, we knew it would happen, but weren't sure when. So
if was back over to watch the shaving of the head. Of course, he had
to get a mohawk to match his grandson first, then it all came off. Pictures are available of course. Overall a good day with
little pain. He is weak, but doing well. Spirits and appetite are high.
We visited Stan on Satuday and he was having a very good day. He got a
new pair of shoes and some clothes. Of course he didn't pick them out,
but he likes them nonetheless. Since it was Valentine's Day, Mike, Dawn
and Cole planned a surpirse dinner. Mike picked dinner up from Chez Andre
(their favorite place), delivered and served it in his tux. I understand
it was quite a site. Needless to say, Stan ate all of his dinner.
Friday the 13th and not much to report. Two more radiations left. Pain
was back this afternoon and last night wasn't filled with sleep. Upping
the meds tonight and hopefully everyone will get some rest. During the
day Stan felt good. We will see what tomorrow brings.
YEA!!!! We saw the doctor today and NO BAD news. We
need to wait and see what happens, but his lungs sounded clear and he
feeling good. The doctor said we just see how Stan feels and base things
on that. Stan got a shot to generate Red Blood cells and got his blood
taken. Counts are low, but not bad. They will see the doctor next week
(19th) and chemo on the 24th. They are going to give him some stuff to
build the bones with the chemo. Meds are changing for the back so he
doesn't have to wake up ever 4 hours for meds. Hopefully it will help his
sleeping. The doctor is 'guarded'; we don't know what will happen. After
some chemo we will see how the back does and how he feels. Wait and
see. Good news was there was NO bad news :)
Stan is pretty uncomfortable today; his back is sore. Tomorrow is the
doctor visit and hopefully it goes well. Not much else to say at this
point. Oh, his appetite is very strong. Every two hours
he is eating. Strawberry milkshakes are his favorite.
Another day of radiation and all is still going well. Stan is sore and
having problems getting moving as the day wears on. He did walk between
the house and car today and to the computer. The voice is getting
raspy also. Right now the pain is locallized in the back from what he
can tell. Maybe they will be able to do something to help. Doctor on
Thursday....
Another day of radiation. The throat is scratchy today, so he ha a raspy
voice. But he is feeling good and without much pain. Both he and mom
need some sleep and hopefully they will get a nap or two today. Weel,
it appears they didn't get any rest. A nurse stopped by and tooks oem
blood. Everything else appears to be well. Here is to a night of rest!
The photo at the top is from Sunday the 8th. I will get a better
picture. This was a polaroid that I scanned and tried to clean up. Better
than James Brown's mugshot from last week! Dad felt pretty good
today. Mike went over early to give dad his shower. I am next on the
list for shower duty! Jeremy and Zophia stopped by to drtop off art,
hugs kisses and make sure the TV was in working order. Margo and Geri
ran out to the store for awhile. Greg helped get things entered into
the computer. All in all a pretty productive day without too much pain.
Feeling pretty good today. A nurse came by to check him out and while
the pulse is still high (121 bpm), the oxygen was excellent (93%). The
house is in good shape and he can move around. A nurse will visit 2-3
times a week. Next visit is Monday for blood. Let's hope the numbers
are good! There was a weight scare today as it appeared he lost 21
pounds! Not sure what happened, but when we weighed him after lunch he
was back at his weight from the cruise. I guess Mom did make one hell
of a milkshake to put 20 pounds back!
Freezing rain today so Mike drove Stan to his radiation. All went
well. Today the bones started aching. It is a sign and we think it
is the chemo at work or the drugs that generate white blood cells at
work. However it seems fast for the white blood cell drugs. I believe
Cole and Dawn visited today.
Stan came home today. He has an 'oxygen' machine in the house and is
moving around well. He got his second radiation treatment and a shot to
stimulate white cell growth. He is glad to be home and feeling pretty good.
he gets set and receives his first radiation. He should finish
2/17. He is going home tomorrow. We learned that his organs are clean.
they determine there is a tumor on the left side of the brain
and radiation is needed. He will get 10 treatments (every business
day) and at the end, the tumor is gone and no reason to test. He
starts chemo that night and does well.
they decided it looked like lung cancer and ordered some more
stains on the biopsy. They decided chemo is the only option as it is
Stage IV and very aggressive. The good news is aggressive cancer
responds well to chemo.
he was in pain and weak so we called the Dr and had him
admitted to the hospital. He got another chest xray and two more MRIs. He
is put on oxygen since his level is 60% (should be 94 or higher) and
receives 2 units of blood.
he had CT scans of the body and MRI of the head.
he saw a dermotologist to look at a growth on his head that
had appeared over the last 3 weeks. They took a biopsy. He saw an
oncologist (same practice my mom used) and they ordered some test.
he saw the Dr who ordered a chest xray since he had a cough
and was getting ready to go to Hawaii the 2nd week of Febraury. That
afternoon, he learned there were tumors in his lungs
Stan and Geri returned from a cruise. On the flight home, Stan
got light headed. He felt tired and was easily winded. In December he
had some surgery and cholestral work and all the blood work was great.
