Newby back again ... help

I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and his trip
to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's going on, I'm in
shock but can't fall apart because I have to work every day. He has a tumor
in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which the dr. said responds best to
chemo. It was like he was saying if one has cancer, this is the best one to
get, kind of like an oxymoronic statement.

So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a few weeks
but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if he has ever seen
longer survivors or had miracle stories with this cancer, and he said yes he
has.

His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a spot on the
liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt very badly until he
started the chemo this week. The dr. started him the day after the
diagnosis. Today was his last day for this round. So, far he feels okay,
just a bit weak. It's freaking me out because he doesn't even look sick,
three weeks ago he was fine (I thought) and now our lives have been turned
upsidedown because the kids and I are hurting so much for him.

I have been told so many things to do while he's on chemo like keeping
everything sterile, he can have fresh veggies or fruit. We are disinfecting
the house and washing everything the minute it's used to keep a germ away.
I'm a school teacher, so I'm very concerned about bringing home germs from
work. I immediately wash my clothes I wore and shower as soon as I walk in
the door.

I was wondernig if any one here can advise me on what else I need to do. I
am also a writer for a newspaper here and just did a story on a lady with
the same type cancer my hubby has. Her cancer was stage IV, and she takes
chemo. Her doctor told her that the cancer was dying inside of her in the
lung because it had no where else to go, so was dying around the edges and
leaving her body. I thought this was quite a miracle. She said she has
outlived his prognosis by nine months.

I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any feedback since
this is all new to me, and you all seem so supportive and kind.

Thank you!

Giuditta

"Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
news:QR85h.30$255.378@eagle.america.net...
> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and his trip
> to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's going on, I'm in
> shock but can't fall apart because I have to work every day. He has a
> tumor in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which the dr. said responds best
> to chemo. It was like he was saying if one has cancer, this is the best
> one to get, kind of like an oxymoronic statement.
>
> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a few
> weeks but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if he has ever
> seen longer survivors or had miracle stories with this cancer, and he said
> yes he has.
>
> His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a spot on the
> liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt very badly until he
> started the chemo this week. The dr. started him the day after the
> diagnosis. Today was his last day for this round. So, far he feels okay,
> just a bit weak. It's freaking me out because he doesn't even look sick,
> three weeks ago he was fine (I thought) and now our lives have been turned
> upsidedown because the kids and I are hurting so much for him.
>
> I have been told so many things to do while he's on chemo like keeping
> everything sterile, he can have fresh veggies or fruit. We are
> disinfecting the house and washing everything the minute it's used to keep
> a germ away. I'm a school teacher, so I'm very concerned about bringing
> home germs from work. I immediately wash my clothes I wore and shower as
> soon as I walk in the door.
>
> I was wondernig if any one here can advise me on what else I need to do. I
> am also a writer for a newspaper here and just did a story on a lady with
> the same type cancer my hubby has. Her cancer was stage IV, and she takes
> chemo. Her doctor told her that the cancer was dying inside of her in the
> lung because it had no where else to go, so was dying around the edges and
> leaving her body. I thought this was quite a miracle. She said she has
> outlived his prognosis by nine months.
>
> I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any feedback since
> this is all new to me, and you all seem so supportive and kind.
>
> Thank you!
>
> Giuditta
>

You don't have to do any of the special cleaning and disinfecting. A
normally clean house is perfectly safe.

"Steph" <steph@vancouvers.island> wrote in message
news:m2e5h.296684$R63.115373@pd7urf1no...
>
> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
> news:QR85h.30$255.378@eagle.america.net...
>> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and his
>> trip to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's going on, I'm
>> in shock but can't fall apart because I have to work every day. He has a
>> tumor in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which the dr. said responds
>> best to chemo. It was like he was saying if one has cancer, this is the
>> best one to get, kind of like an oxymoronic statement.
>>
>> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a few
>> weeks but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if he has
>> ever seen longer survivors or had miracle stories with this cancer, and
>> he said yes he has.
>>
>> His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a spot on
>> the liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt very badly until
>> he started the chemo this week. The dr. started him the day after the
>> diagnosis. Today was his last day for this round. So, far he feels okay,
>> just a bit weak. It's freaking me out because he doesn't even look sick,
>> three weeks ago he was fine (I thought) and now our lives have been
>> turned upsidedown because the kids and I are hurting so much for him.
>>
>> I have been told so many things to do while he's on chemo like keeping
>> everything sterile, he can have fresh veggies or fruit. We are
>> disinfecting the house and washing everything the minute it's used to
>> keep a germ away. I'm a school teacher, so I'm very concerned about
>> bringing home germs from work. I immediately wash my clothes I wore and
>> shower as soon as I walk in the door.
>>
>> I was wondernig if any one here can advise me on what else I need to do.
>> I am also a writer for a newspaper here and just did a story on a lady
>> with the same type cancer my hubby has. Her cancer was stage IV, and she
>> takes chemo. Her doctor told her that the cancer was dying inside of her
>> in the lung because it had no where else to go, so was dying around the
>> edges and leaving her body. I thought this was quite a miracle. She said
>> she has outlived his prognosis by nine months.
>>
>> I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any feedback
>> since this is all new to me, and you all seem so supportive and kind.
>>
>> Thank you!
>>
>> Giuditta
>>
>
> You don't have to do any of the special cleaning and disinfecting. A
> normally clean house is perfectly safe.



Are you serious? Why are they telling us this? He was told not to even eat
lettuce on a hamburger and not to eat fresh fruits (Is this also some
myth?). I have been getting up at 4 a.m., before getting ready for school,
sanitizing everything. Our home is neat and clean (I thought), but now I am
being fanatical about is and so is my daughter. Our son is 17, and he has
caught pure hell from his older sister about keeping his room spotless...he
isn't a dirty kid but messy with Cds everywhere, etc...

What about the part where I am so afraid of anyone bringing a germ into the
house even if they themselves aren't sick ... like me from school. I know
the teaching profession is a job where a person is more at risk for
collecting bacteria on the workspace than any other...There was something on
the radio about it last week...we topped even doctors...believe that? So, I
do need to immediately come in and shower (which I do anyway) and wash the
clothes right then...is that right?

This is all so new to me. It's a learning experience for sure. We have met
the kindest folks at the chemo center, and they have been helpful with
advice too. We were told not to have fresh flowers in the house so now I am
wondering about a Christmas tree. Do we need to buy a fake tree. My hubby
has always so enjoyed a real tree, but if it makes him at risk for any type
of bacteria, we can do something else. I'm sorry to bother you with all
these details, but I just don't know, and Im scared.

Peace Out!
Giuditta

"Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in
news:LHj5h.82$255.117@eagle.america.net:

>
> "Steph" <steph@vancouvers.island> wrote in message
> news:m2e5h.296684$R63.115373@pd7urf1no...
>>
>> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
>> news:QR85h.30$255.378@eagle.america.net...
>>> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and
>>> his trip to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's
>>> going on, I'm in shock but can't fall apart because I have to work
>>> every day. He has a tumor in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which
>>> the dr. said responds best to chemo. It was like he was saying if
>>> one has cancer, this is the best one to get, kind of like an
>>> oxymoronic statement.
>>>
>>> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a
>>> few weeks but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if
>>> he has ever seen longer survivors or had miracle stories with this
>>> cancer, and he said yes he has.
>>>
>>> His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a spot
>>> on the liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt very
>>> badly until he started the chemo this week. The dr. started him the
>>> day after the diagnosis. Today was his last day for this round. So,
>>> far he feels okay, just a bit weak. It's freaking me out because he
>>> doesn't even look sick, three weeks ago he was fine (I thought) and
>>> now our lives have been turned upsidedown because the kids and I are
>>> hurting so much for him.
>>>
>>> I have been told so many things to do while he's on chemo like
>>> keeping everything sterile, he can have fresh veggies or fruit. We
>>> are disinfecting the house and washing everything the minute it's
>>> used to keep a germ away. I'm a school teacher, so I'm very
>>> concerned about bringing home germs from work. I immediately wash my
>>> clothes I wore and shower as soon as I walk in the door.
>>>
>>> I was wondernig if any one here can advise me on what else I need to
>>> do. I am also a writer for a newspaper here and just did a story on
>>> a lady with the same type cancer my hubby has. Her cancer was stage
>>> IV, and she takes chemo. Her doctor told her that the cancer was
>>> dying inside of her in the lung because it had no where else to go,
>>> so was dying around the edges and leaving her body. I thought this
>>> was quite a miracle. She said she has outlived his prognosis by nine
>>> months.
>>>
>>> I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any feedback
>>> since this is all new to me, and you all seem so supportive and
>>> kind.
>>>
>>> Thank you!
>>>
>>> Giuditta
>>>
>>
>> You don't have to do any of the special cleaning and disinfecting. A
>> normally clean house is perfectly safe.
>
>
>
> Are you serious? Why are they telling us this? He was told not to even
> eat lettuce on a hamburger and not to eat fresh fruits (Is this also
> some myth?). I have been getting up at 4 a.m., before getting ready
> for school, sanitizing everything. Our home is neat and clean (I
> thought), but now I am being fanatical about is and so is my daughter.
> Our son is 17, and he has caught pure hell from his older sister about
> keeping his room spotless...he isn't a dirty kid but messy with Cds
> everywhere, etc...
>
> What about the part where I am so afraid of anyone bringing a germ
> into the house even if they themselves aren't sick ... like me from
> school. I know the teaching profession is a job where a person is more
> at risk for collecting bacteria on the workspace than any
> other...There was something on the radio about it last week...we
> topped even doctors...believe that? So, I do need to immediately come
> in and shower (which I do anyway) and wash the clothes right then...is
> that right?
>
> This is all so new to me. It's a learning experience for sure. We have
> met the kindest folks at the chemo center, and they have been helpful
> with advice too. We were told not to have fresh flowers in the house
> so now I am wondering about a Christmas tree. Do we need to buy a fake
> tree. My hubby has always so enjoyed a real tree, but if it makes him
> at risk for any type of bacteria, we can do something else. I'm sorry
> to bother you with all these details, but I just don't know, and Im
> scared.
>
> Peace Out!
> Giuditta
>

Giuditta,

Maybe something different is going on with your husband than the norm to
make him ultra vulnerable? I know chemo lowers the white blood cell
count & thus resistance to infection. However, we were not told to take
precautionary measures around the house. We have constant cats, plants,
flowers, open windows & we had Christmas trees - we changed nothing
there. I have never won any housekeeping awards. I never disinfected
anything. I've read this can produce more resistant germs as they
overcome the disinfectant.

There are some flowers that make me sneeze if I'm confined with them &
you surely wouldn't want him uncomfortable if that's the case with him.

Ask his onc if he has some reason to require a more sterile environment.
I have been around several cancer patients (my DH had NSCLC) & have never
heard of that & no one on this group has mentioned either to my
recollection.

We were both advised to get flu shots early on & when I felt sniffles
coming on, I moved to guest room for a night or two & I was careful about
germs then. I always use sani rinse setting on dishwasher, mostly
because I don't run it often. I know kiddies carry lots of germs - more
than we probably came into contact with regularly. I have always heard
that washing hands is most important.

Our Penny, who just passed away from SCLC kept her young granddaughters
once a week & baked cookies with them, etc. She & my DH each flew quite a
bit while ill & those airplanes can be plenty germy & confining.

I understand you don't want to be Typhoid Mary, but you don't want to
spend your quality time unnecessarily disinfecting either. I'd ask for
clarification for sure.

My DH initially had a 6-18 month prognoisis & lived over 4 years. Penny
(SCLC) was cautioned not to schedule a trip for January (docs thought
that would be her time) but took several long trips later & lived until
October. Others go faster than expected. We tend to hear from more
longer-term survivors here than the norm, I'd guess, just because they
are healthy enough to post.

Thinking of you & wishing you & your family all the best,
Fig

"Figgertoes" <me@privacy.net> wrote in message
news:Xns98784E7AF2804figgertoes@216.168.3.44...
> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in
> news:LHj5h.82$255.117@eagle.america.net:
>
>>
>> "Steph" <steph@vancouvers.island> wrote in message
>> news:m2e5h.296684$R63.115373@pd7urf1no...
>>>
>>> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
>>> news:QR85h.30$255.378@eagle.america.net...
>>>> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and
>>>> his trip to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's
>>>> going on, I'm in shock but can't fall apart because I have to work
>>>> every day. He has a tumor in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which
>>>> the dr. said responds best to chemo. It was like he was saying if
>>>> one has cancer, this is the best one to get, kind of like an
>>>> oxymoronic statement.
>>>>
>>>> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a
>>>> few weeks but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if
>>>> he has ever seen longer survivors or had miracle stories with this
>>>> cancer, and he said yes he has.
>>>>
>>>> His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a spot
>>>> on the liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt very
>>>> badly until he started the chemo this week. The dr. started him the
>>>> day after the diagnosis. Today was his last day for this round. So,
>>>> far he feels okay, just a bit weak. It's freaking me out because he
>>>> doesn't even look sick, three weeks ago he was fine (I thought) and
>>>> now our lives have been turned upsidedown because the kids and I are
>>>> hurting so much for him.
>>>>
>>>> I have been told so many things to do while he's on chemo like
>>>> keeping everything sterile, he can have fresh veggies or fruit. We
>>>> are disinfecting the house and washing everything the minute it's
>>>> used to keep a germ away. I'm a school teacher, so I'm very
>>>> concerned about bringing home germs from work. I immediately wash my
>>>> clothes I wore and shower as soon as I walk in the door.
>>>>
>>>> I was wondernig if any one here can advise me on what else I need to
>>>> do. I am also a writer for a newspaper here and just did a story on
>>>> a lady with the same type cancer my hubby has. Her cancer was stage
>>>> IV, and she takes chemo. Her doctor told her that the cancer was
>>>> dying inside of her in the lung because it had no where else to go,
>>>> so was dying around the edges and leaving her body. I thought this
>>>> was quite a miracle. She said she has outlived his prognosis by nine
>>>> months.
>>>>
>>>> I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any feedback
>>>> since this is all new to me, and you all seem so supportive and
>>>> kind.
>>>>
>>>> Thank you!
>>>>
>>>> Giuditta
>>>>
>>>
>>> You don't have to do any of the special cleaning and disinfecting. A
>>> normally clean house is perfectly safe.
>>
>>
>>
>> Are you serious? Why are they telling us this? He was told not to even
>> eat lettuce on a hamburger and not to eat fresh fruits (Is this also
>> some myth?). I have been getting up at 4 a.m., before getting ready
>> for school, sanitizing everything. Our home is neat and clean (I
>> thought), but now I am being fanatical about is and so is my daughter.
>> Our son is 17, and he has caught pure hell from his older sister about
>> keeping his room spotless...he isn't a dirty kid but messy with Cds
>> everywhere, etc...
>>
>> What about the part where I am so afraid of anyone bringing a germ
>> into the house even if they themselves aren't sick ... like me from
>> school. I know the teaching profession is a job where a person is more
>> at risk for collecting bacteria on the workspace than any
>> other...There was something on the radio about it last week...we
>> topped even doctors...believe that? So, I do need to immediately come
>> in and shower (which I do anyway) and wash the clothes right then...is
>> that right?
>>
>> This is all so new to me. It's a learning experience for sure. We have
>> met the kindest folks at the chemo center, and they have been helpful
>> with advice too. We were told not to have fresh flowers in the house
>> so now I am wondering about a Christmas tree. Do we need to buy a fake
>> tree. My hubby has always so enjoyed a real tree, but if it makes him
>> at risk for any type of bacteria, we can do something else. I'm sorry
>> to bother you with all these details, but I just don't know, and Im
>> scared.
>>
>> Peace Out!
>> Giuditta
>>
>
> Giuditta,
>
> Maybe something different is going on with your husband than the norm to
> make him ultra vulnerable? I know chemo lowers the white blood cell
> count & thus resistance to infection. However, we were not told to take
> precautionary measures around the house. We have constant cats, plants,
> flowers, open windows & we had Christmas trees - we changed nothing
> there. I have never won any housekeeping awards. I never disinfected
> anything. I've read this can produce more resistant germs as they
> overcome the disinfectant.
>
> There are some flowers that make me sneeze if I'm confined with them &
> you surely wouldn't want him uncomfortable if that's the case with him.
>
> Ask his onc if he has some reason to require a more sterile environment.
> I have been around several cancer patients (my DH had NSCLC) & have never
> heard of that & no one on this group has mentioned either to my
> recollection.
>
> We were both advised to get flu shots early on & when I felt sniffles
> coming on, I moved to guest room for a night or two & I was careful about
> germs then. I always use sani rinse setting on dishwasher, mostly
> because I don't run it often. I know kiddies carry lots of germs - more
> than we probably came into contact with regularly. I have always heard
> that washing hands is most important.
>
> Our Penny, who just passed away from SCLC kept her young granddaughters
> once a week & baked cookies with them, etc. She & my DH each flew quite a
> bit while ill & those airplanes can be plenty germy & confining.
>
> I understand you don't want to be Typhoid Mary, but you don't want to
> spend your quality time unnecessarily disinfecting either. I'd ask for
> clarification for sure.
>
> My DH initially had a 6-18 month prognoisis & lived over 4 years. Penny
> (SCLC) was cautioned not to schedule a trip for January (docs thought
> that would be her time) but took several long trips later & lived until
> October. Others go faster than expected. We tend to hear from more
> longer-term survivors here than the norm, I'd guess, just because they
> are healthy enough to post.
>
> Thinking of you & wishing you & your family all the best,
> Fig


Thank you!

I'm so sorry for your loss. Is Penny your daughter? I don't really want to
bother everyone with my questions because I know you're all going through a
lot yourselves.

I just feel really dumb and stupid about all this, what we should do, what
we shouldn't do...

If I get too annoying with the questions, just tell me to chill out or
something...you all seem to know more than anyone I know, that's for sure...

Another thing I am not clear on is during chemo, how long is the
incubation-type period...is it so many days after each treatment or is it in
three, six or however many months until the chemo is over.

For example: My husband's first chemo was this week for three days, the last
being yesterday and then he returns in three weeks for three more, etc.
Sunday night he is supposed to play a music gig, but our son is sitting in
for him. My husband would like to go hear him, but I don't know if he should
be around crowds yet. I just told him I would post this question.

All the info we've received about precautions on him and his chemo have not
come from his doctor (not the detailed ones like the no Christmas tree
thing) but from others who were taking chemo in the room with him.

Thanks so much for taking the time to help us out. I will be keeping this
group in my prayers.

God Bless and Peace Out!
Giuditta

Giuditta wrote:

> I'm so sorry for your loss. Is Penny your daughter? I don't really want to
> bother everyone with my questions because I know you're all going through a
> lot yourselves.
>
> For example: My husband's first chemo was this week for three days, the last
> being yesterday and then he returns in three weeks for three more, etc.
> Sunday night he is supposed to play a music gig, but our son is sitting in
> for him. My husband would like to go hear him, but I don't know if he should
> be around crowds yet. I just told him I would post this question.
>
> All the info we've received about precautions on him and his chemo have not
> come from his doctor (not the detailed ones like the no Christmas tree
> thing) but from others who were taking chemo in the room with him.

Hello,
There's sometimes a drop in blood counts at the beginning. The oncologist will
be monitoring that and advising. If you hear of an outbreak, in the area, take
extra precautions. Otherwise, business as usual, although it won't hurt your son
to learn to take responsibility of cleaning up his room and since you work, all
the kids taking on more responsibilities around the home.

Hand washing after using the bathroom and before handling foods or after pet
cleanup (of poop or cat litter) should be the norm anyway. You don't need to
wash your clothes immediately. You don't eat off your clothes do you? Do the
usual for Christmas. If he feels well, he should play the gig himself. They
don't kiss each other, do they?

Penny was a regular here who had lung cancer.
Her blog starts here http://pensclc.blogspot.com/2005_11_...c_archive.html

at the bottom and then have to read upwards.
Since your husband will be at home, he may wish to read through it, then maybe
decide to start his own blog, if he's handy with a computer. If not, he may wish
to get into video-ing family events and his (alone/private) thoughts and
feelings. Or a hand-written diary and photo albums. These are memories that
can be handed down from children to grandchildren. It's a standard in many
families; just mentioning in case it's not in yours.

It's good to hear that the chemo's helping him feel better.
Keep in touch,
J

"J" <ercent@anon.inv> wrote in message
news:4556047A.F7F3848A@execulink.com...
> Giuditta wrote:
>
>> I'm so sorry for your loss. Is Penny your daughter? I don't really want
>> to
>> bother everyone with my questions because I know you're all going through
>> a
>> lot yourselves.
>>
>> For example: My husband's first chemo was this week for three days, the
>> last
>> being yesterday and then he returns in three weeks for three more, etc.
>> Sunday night he is supposed to play a music gig, but our son is sitting
>> in
>> for him. My husband would like to go hear him, but I don't know if he
>> should
>> be around crowds yet. I just told him I would post this question.
>>
>> All the info we've received about precautions on him and his chemo have
>> not
>> come from his doctor (not the detailed ones like the no Christmas tree
>> thing) but from others who were taking chemo in the room with him.
>
> Hello,
> There's sometimes a drop in blood counts at the beginning. The oncologist
> will
> be monitoring that and advising. If you hear of an outbreak, in the area,
> take
> extra precautions. Otherwise, business as usual, although it won't hurt
> your son
> to learn to take responsibility of cleaning up his room and since you
> work, all
> the kids taking on more responsibilities around the home.
>
> Hand washing after using the bathroom and before handling foods or after
> pet
> cleanup (of poop or cat litter) should be the norm anyway. You don't need
> to
> wash your clothes immediately. You don't eat off your clothes do you? Do
> the
> usual for Christmas. If he feels well, he should play the gig himself.
> They
> don't kiss each other, do they?
>
> Penny was a regular here who had lung cancer.
> Her blog starts here
> http://pensclc.blogspot.com/2005_11_...c_archive.html
>
> at the bottom and then have to read upwards.
> Since your husband will be at home, he may wish to read through it, then
> maybe
> decide to start his own blog, if he's handy with a computer. If not, he
> may wish
> to get into video-ing family events and his (alone/private) thoughts and
> feelings. Or a hand-written diary and photo albums. These are memories
> that
> can be handed down from children to grandchildren. It's a standard in
> many
> families; just mentioning in case it's not in yours.
>
> It's good to hear that the chemo's helping him feel better.
> Keep in touch,
> J


Thanks for the info. Another question about the gig. This one is at a
nightclub where's there is smoke. His doctor said for him to stay away from
second-hand smoke...so, now what? I know as soon as he's able he'll be
playing again anyway. This is all so confusing. I know what he loves doing
because he's played professionally since he was 14. Now, it seems his
livelihood is taken from him.

Thank you for Penny's blog. I will sure read it. My husband never gets near
a computer, but I could print some things off for him. The things I have
read on here make sense to me more than what I have heard from the chemo
center.

Thanks!

Giuditta

"Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in
news:4Um5h.88$255.418@eagle.america.net:

>
> "Figgertoes" <me@privacy.net> wrote in message
> news:Xns98784E7AF2804figgertoes@216.168.3.44...
>> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in
>> news:LHj5h.82$255.117@eagle.america.net:
>>
>>>
>>> "Steph" <steph@vancouvers.island> wrote in message
>>> news:m2e5h.296684$R63.115373@pd7urf1no...
>>>>
>>>> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:QR85h.30$255.378@eagle.america.net...
>>>>> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and
>>>>> his trip to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's
>>>>> going on, I'm in shock but can't fall apart because I have to work
>>>>> every day. He has a tumor in his lung, and it's fast-growing,
>>>>> which the dr. said responds best to chemo. It was like he was
>>>>> saying if one has cancer, this is the best one to get, kind of
>>>>> like an oxymoronic statement.
>>>>>
>>>>> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a
>>>>> few weeks but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if
>>>>> he has ever seen longer survivors or had miracle stories with this
>>>>> cancer, and he said yes he has.
>>>>>
>>>>> His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a
>>>>> spot on the liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt
>>>>> very badly until he started the chemo this week. The dr. started
>>>>> him the day after the diagnosis. Today was his last day for this
>>>>> round. So, far he feels okay, just a bit weak. It's freaking me
>>>>> out because he doesn't even look sick, three weeks ago he was fine
>>>>> (I thought) and now our lives have been turned upsidedown because
>>>>> the kids and I are hurting so much for him.
>>>>>
>>>>> I have been told so many things to do while he's on chemo like
>>>>> keeping everything sterile, he can have fresh veggies or fruit. We
>>>>> are disinfecting the house and washing everything the minute it's
>>>>> used to keep a germ away. I'm a school teacher, so I'm very
>>>>> concerned about bringing home germs from work. I immediately wash
>>>>> my clothes I wore and shower as soon as I walk in the door.
>>>>>
>>>>> I was wondernig if any one here can advise me on what else I need
>>>>> to do. I am also a writer for a newspaper here and just did a
>>>>> story on a lady with the same type cancer my hubby has. Her cancer
>>>>> was stage IV, and she takes chemo. Her doctor told her that the
>>>>> cancer was dying inside of her in the lung because it had no where
>>>>> else to go, so was dying around the edges and leaving her body. I
>>>>> thought this was quite a miracle. She said she has outlived his
>>>>> prognosis by nine months.
>>>>>
>>>>> I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any
>>>>> feedback since this is all new to me, and you all seem so
>>>>> supportive and kind.
>>>>>
>>>>> Thank you!
>>>>>
>>>>> Giuditta
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>> You don't have to do any of the special cleaning and disinfecting.
>>>> A normally clean house is perfectly safe.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Are you serious? Why are they telling us this? He was told not to
>>> even eat lettuce on a hamburger and not to eat fresh fruits (Is this
>>> also some myth?). I have been getting up at 4 a.m., before getting
>>> ready for school, sanitizing everything. Our home is neat and clean
>>> (I thought), but now I am being fanatical about is and so is my
>>> daughter. Our son is 17, and he has caught pure hell from his older
>>> sister about keeping his room spotless...he isn't a dirty kid but
>>> messy with Cds everywhere, etc...
>>>
>>> What about the part where I am so afraid of anyone bringing a germ
>>> into the house even if they themselves aren't sick ... like me from
>>> school. I know the teaching profession is a job where a person is
>>> more at risk for collecting bacteria on the workspace than any
>>> other...There was something on the radio about it last week...we
>>> topped even doctors...believe that? So, I do need to immediately
>>> come in and shower (which I do anyway) and wash the clothes right
>>> then...is that right?
>>>
>>> This is all so new to me. It's a learning experience for sure. We
>>> have met the kindest folks at the chemo center, and they have been
>>> helpful with advice too. We were told not to have fresh flowers in
>>> the house so now I am wondering about a Christmas tree. Do we need
>>> to buy a fake tree. My hubby has always so enjoyed a real tree, but
>>> if it makes him at risk for any type of bacteria, we can do
>>> something else. I'm sorry to bother you with all these details, but
>>> I just don't know, and Im scared.
>>>
>>> Peace Out!
>>> Giuditta
>>>
>>
>> Giuditta,
>>
>> Maybe something different is going on with your husband than the norm
>> to make him ultra vulnerable? I know chemo lowers the white blood
>> cell count & thus resistance to infection. However, we were not told
>> to take precautionary measures around the house. We have constant
>> cats, plants, flowers, open windows & we had Christmas trees - we
>> changed nothing there. I have never won any housekeeping awards. I
>> never disinfected anything. I've read this can produce more
>> resistant germs as they overcome the disinfectant.
>>
>> There are some flowers that make me sneeze if I'm confined with them
>> & you surely wouldn't want him uncomfortable if that's the case with
>> him.
>>
>> Ask his onc if he has some reason to require a more sterile
>> environment. I have been around several cancer patients (my DH had
>> NSCLC) & have never heard of that & no one on this group has
>> mentioned either to my recollection.
>>
>> We were both advised to get flu shots early on & when I felt sniffles
>> coming on, I moved to guest room for a night or two & I was careful
>> about germs then. I always use sani rinse setting on dishwasher,
>> mostly because I don't run it often. I know kiddies carry lots of
>> germs - more than we probably came into contact with regularly. I
>> have always heard that washing hands is most important.
>>
>> Our Penny, who just passed away from SCLC kept her young
>> granddaughters once a week & baked cookies with them, etc. She & my
>> DH each flew quite a bit while ill & those airplanes can be plenty
>> germy & confining.
>>
>> I understand you don't want to be Typhoid Mary, but you don't want to
>> spend your quality time unnecessarily disinfecting either. I'd ask
>> for clarification for sure.
>>
>> My DH initially had a 6-18 month prognoisis & lived over 4 years.
>> Penny (SCLC) was cautioned not to schedule a trip for January (docs
>> thought that would be her time) but took several long trips later &
>> lived until October. Others go faster than expected. We tend to
>> hear from more longer-term survivors here than the norm, I'd guess,
>> just because they are healthy enough to post.
>>
>> Thinking of you & wishing you & your family all the best,
>> Fig
>
>
> Thank you!
>
> I'm so sorry for your loss. Is Penny your daughter? I don't really
> want to bother everyone with my questions because I know you're all
> going through a lot yourselves.
>
> I just feel really dumb and stupid about all this, what we should do,
> what we shouldn't do...
>
> If I get too annoying with the questions, just tell me to chill out or
> something...you all seem to know more than anyone I know, that's for
> sure...
>
> Another thing I am not clear on is during chemo, how long is the
> incubation-type period...is it so many days after each treatment or is
> it in three, six or however many months until the chemo is over.
>
> For example: My husband's first chemo was this week for three days,
> the last being yesterday and then he returns in three weeks for three
> more, etc. Sunday night he is supposed to play a music gig, but our
> son is sitting in for him. My husband would like to go hear him, but I
> don't know if he should be around crowds yet. I just told him I would
> post this question.
>
> All the info we've received about precautions on him and his chemo
> have not come from his doctor (not the detailed ones like the no
> Christmas tree thing) but from others who were taking chemo in the
> room with him.
>
> Thanks so much for taking the time to help us out. I will be keeping
> this group in my prayers.
>
> God Bless and Peace Out!
> Giuditta
>
My husband, Socks here, died of NSCLC a little over a year ago. Penny
was another regular here whom I was fortuante enough to meet for a long
weekend. Here's Penny's fabulous blog:

http://pensclc.blogspot.com/

I don't know of any incubation period. That's a new concept for me.
PLEASE check with your husband's care team. Maybe someone on call could
answer your questions for Sunday. I just don't want him to needlessly
miss out on any good times. If he feels like playing the gig or part of
it, I don't know why he shouldn't. Or at least be there with his friends
- what better medicine than that?

We would often time trips with the chemo but not taking into account any
time Socks should have been in isolation, because there was no such time.
We would go the day after chemo sometimes, knowing the day after that
would be his 'down' day & we'd just relax that day & be in place to enjoy
the trip our 2nd day there.

I hope others chime in here. Steph is our group's oncologist & he says
no reason for all the precautions. No one wants your DH to become ill,
but why miss out on what life he has left?

I do know the white blood cell counts plummet after chemo (don't know how
fast). Then they build. Socks had a blood test right before each chemo
(3 week intervals I think) & usually the count was high enough. If not,
chemo was delayed. Later, after a couple of courses of chemo, he was
given Neupogen (shots he self-administered) to help bring the levels up
faster. Generally, the longer a person is on chemo, the longer it takes
to bring the levels back up. Neupogen is very expensive. One course was
several thousand $$, but insurance covered.

It's fine to get ideas from others - like try ginger for nausea or
enlarge the holes in a sippy cup with an ice pick (which I did). But
it's not a good idea to ACT on something as drastic as it sounds like
you're doing with the isolation, sterilization routine on hearsay from
others. Everybody's different. Doctors vary in their preferences too.
Here, you will find suggestions of things to ask your care team & tips,
techniques that have worked for others, but no one would suggest you
embark on the sort of routine you describe without instructions from his
docs.

And don't ever worry about making a pest of yourself here. That's what
we're here for. We've all been through or around cancer. I know how
hungry I was for info at first. The other people here came through for
Socks a number of times - sometimes on weekends or middle of the night
when things were happening. Multiple heads are better than one,
especially when the one is emotionally involved & often sleep-deprived &
stressed.

I hope your next post is about how much DH enjoyed his gig.

Hugs,
Fig

Giuditta wrote:

> "Thanks for the info. Another question about the gig. This one is at a
> nightclub where's there is smoke. His doctor said for him to stay away from
> second-hand smoke...so, now what? I know as soon as he's able he'll be
> playing again anyway. This is all so confusing. I know what he loves doing
> because he's played professionally since he was 14. Now, it seems his
> livelihood is taken from him.

Oh dear. What State do you live in?
Colorado has a no-smoking law.
It would be nice if he could continue his livelihood and what he loves to do
most.
It sure won't help him breathe if he's in a smokey place.
Some places put in better ventilation, mandated by the local laws or for the
benefit of customers, but they're expensive, so I doubt that that'll happen if
the owner doesn't promote a non-smoking nightclub.
I'm sorry. I don't know the solution to this one.

> Thank you for Penny's blog. I will sure read it. My husband never gets near
> a computer, but I could print some things off for him.

Okay, sounds good = she had same type of cancer and probably the same stage, but
if I recall correctly hers was (initially) in the lung, rib and the adrenal.
J

Giuditta wrote:

> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and his trip
> to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's going on, I'm in
> shock but can't fall apart because I have to work every day. He has a tumor
> in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which the dr. said responds best to
> chemo. It was like he was saying if one has cancer, this is the best one to
> get, kind of like an oxymoronic statement.
>
> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a few weeks
> but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if he has ever seen
> longer survivors or had miracle stories with this cancer, and he said yes he
> has.
>
> His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a spot on the
> liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt very badly until he
> started the chemo this week. The dr. started him the day after the
> diagnosis. Today was his last day for this round. So, far he feels okay,
> just a bit weak. It's freaking me out because he doesn't even look sick,
> three weeks ago he was fine (I thought) and now our lives have been turned
> upsidedown because the kids and I are hurting so much for him.

Hello Giuditta,

I am sorry to hear of your husband's cancer. Here we call small cell lung cancer
(SCLC), so don't be surprised if you see that.

You and your family are starting a journey of learning that the prognosis (of 10
to 12 months) usually means "median". It's usually based on results of clinical
trials (of large groups of people) for that type of lung cancer. Median means
some live less long than 10 to 12 months and some live longer than 10 to 12
months.

At this point, we don't know how long that'll be for your husband. You'll know
(more precisely) when the cancer starts growing despite being (or having been
on, several lines of) chemo or when the chemo starts causing him too many
problems and he has to quit it.

Actually some skin cancers and thyroid cancer is probably the best to have.
(apologies to BJ and thyroid cancer patients). But I think I understand the drs
logic.

You may be busy for a while, adjusting to the routines your husband may have
-the chemo days, scans from time to time, bloodwork etc, But please take care
of you as well.

Please be assured we'll be here for you as best we can.
J

J wrote:

> You and your family are starting a journey of learning that the prognosis (of 10
> to 12 months) usually means "median". It's usually based on results of clinical
> trials (of large groups of people) for that type of lung cancer. Median means
> 50% live less long than 10 to 12 months and 50% live longer than 10 to 12
> months.
>
> At this point, we don't know how long that'll be for your husband. You'll know
> (more precisely) when the cancer starts growing despite being (or having been
> on, several lines of) chemo or when the chemo starts causing him too many
> problems and he has to quit it.

Sorry, I messed up explaining median; so I've edited it (above).
J

"Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
news:LHj5h.82$255.117@eagle.america.net...
>
> "Steph" <steph@vancouvers.island> wrote in message
> news:m2e5h.296684$R63.115373@pd7urf1no...
>>
>> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
>> news:QR85h.30$255.378@eagle.america.net...
>>> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and his
>>> trip to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's going on,
>>> I'm in shock but can't fall apart because I have to work every day. He
>>> has a tumor in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which the dr. said
>>> responds best to chemo. It was like he was saying if one has cancer,
>>> this is the best one to get, kind of like an oxymoronic statement.
>>>
>>> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a few
>>> weeks but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if he has
>>> ever seen longer survivors or had miracle stories with this cancer, and
>>> he said yes he has.
>>>
>>> His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a spot on
>>> the liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt very badly
>>> until he started the chemo this week. The dr. started him the day after
>>> the diagnosis. Today was his last day for this round. So, far he feels
>>> okay, just a bit weak. It's freaking me out because he doesn't even look
>>> sick, three weeks ago he was fine (I thought) and now our lives have
>>> been turned upsidedown because the kids and I are hurting so much for
>>> him.
>>>
>>> I have been told so many things to do while he's on chemo like keeping
>>> everything sterile, he can have fresh veggies or fruit. We are
>>> disinfecting the house and washing everything the minute it's used to
>>> keep a germ away. I'm a school teacher, so I'm very concerned about
>>> bringing home germs from work. I immediately wash my clothes I wore and
>>> shower as soon as I walk in the door.
>>>
>>> I was wondernig if any one here can advise me on what else I need to do.
>>> I am also a writer for a newspaper here and just did a story on a lady
>>> with the same type cancer my hubby has. Her cancer was stage IV, and she
>>> takes chemo. Her doctor told her that the cancer was dying inside of her
>>> in the lung because it had no where else to go, so was dying around the
>>> edges and leaving her body. I thought this was quite a miracle. She said
>>> she has outlived his prognosis by nine months.
>>>
>>> I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any feedback
>>> since this is all new to me, and you all seem so supportive and kind.
>>>
>>> Thank you!
>>>
>>> Giuditta
>>>
>>
>> You don't have to do any of the special cleaning and disinfecting. A
>> normally clean house is perfectly safe.
>
>
>
> Are you serious? Why are they telling us this? He was told not to even eat
> lettuce on a hamburger and not to eat fresh fruits (Is this also some
> myth?). I have been getting up at 4 a.m., before getting ready for school,
> sanitizing everything. Our home is neat and clean (I thought), but now I
> am being fanatical about is and so is my daughter. Our son is 17, and he
> has caught pure hell from his older sister about keeping his room
> spotless...he isn't a dirty kid but messy with Cds everywhere, etc...
>
> What about the part where I am so afraid of anyone bringing a germ into
> the house even if they themselves aren't sick ... like me from school. I
> know the teaching profession is a job where a person is more at risk for
> collecting bacteria on the workspace than any other...There was something
> on the radio about it last week...we topped even doctors...believe that?
> So, I do need to immediately come in and shower (which I do anyway) and
> wash the clothes right then...is that right?
>
> This is all so new to me. It's a learning experience for sure. We have met
> the kindest folks at the chemo center, and they have been helpful with
> advice too. We were told not to have fresh flowers in the house so now I
> am wondering about a Christmas tree. Do we need to buy a fake tree. My
> hubby has always so enjoyed a real tree, but if it makes him at risk for
> any type of bacteria, we can do something else. I'm sorry to bother you
> with all these details, but I just don't know, and Im scared.
>
> Peace Out!
> Giuditta
>

Who told you all that nonsense? The oncologists?

J <ercent@anon.inv> wrote in news:45560BA0.6BB1D73B@execulink.com:

> Oh dear. What State do you live in?
> Colorado has a no-smoking law.
> It would be nice if he could continue his livelihood and what he loves
> to do most.
> It sure won't help him breathe if he's in a smokey place.
> Some places put in better ventilation, mandated by the local laws or
> for the benefit of customers, but they're expensive, so I doubt that
> that'll happen if the owner doesn't promote a non-smoking nightclub.
> I'm sorry. I don't know the solution to this one.
>

Results of Smoke-Free Laws and Tobacco Taxes provided by Americans for
Nonsmoker's Rights and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids....


Residents of Arizona, Nevada and Ohio will soon be enjoying their right
to
breathe smoke-free air thanks to voter approved ballot measure. These new
smokefree protections, combined with 17 other statewide laws and hundreds
of local
laws already in place, mean that smoke-free workplaces will now be the
norm for
the majority of the U.S. population.*

This is a historic day for the national smoke-free air movement. With the
foundation of hundreds of local smoke-free laws across the nation, and
new
statewide laws coming into effect, more than 50% of Americans will enjoy
strong
smokefree protections.
*
In Arizona, Prop 201 passed by 54.2%; in Ohio, voters approved the
statewide
smoke-free law by 60%; and in Nevada, the Nevada Clean Indoor Air Act
(Issue
4) passed with 54.2% of the vote, bringing smoke-free indoor air to the
public
in all three states.
*

Arizona - 54.2% WIN
Despite over eight million dollars of tobacco industry money, Arizona
voters
approved Proposition 201 by 54.2% to implement a strong smoke-free indoor
air
law. Arizona will implement their new statewide law on May 1, 2007, which
will
bring smoke-free air to all Arizona’s indoor workplaces and public
places.

Nevada - 53.9% WIN (includes preemption repeal)
Voters in Nevada overwhelmingly approved the Nevada Smokefree Indoor Air
Act.
Starting November 17th, this new law will bring 100% smoke-free air to
most
Nevada workplaces and indoor public places, including schools, day care
centers, and restaurants. Stand-alone bars and gaming areas of casinos
will be exempt
from the new law. In addition, the new law restored local control to
Nevada’s
cities and towns, allowing communities to strengthen smoke-free policy at
the
local level.**

Ohio - 58.3% WIN (Voters also REJECTED the separate tobacco industry
amendment)
In Ohio, voters approved a strong smokefree law, with 58.3% voter
support.
During the campaign, R.J. Reynolds and other tobacco industry allies
attempted
to override the health community-backed initiative by placing a competing
measure on the ballot, which offered no real smoke-free protections.
Voters
rejected the tobacco-backed amendment, ito leave the door wide open for
smoke-free
air. Thanks to the dedicated efforts to educate voters on this important
issue,
all Ohio workers will soon breathe smoke-free air.
*

Local Smoke-free Air Election Results*
In addition to the statewide ballot initiatives, a number of communities
addressed smoke-free air laws on the local ballot. See below for local
results:
• Mankato, MN - smoke-free law upheld
• Baytown, TX - smokef-ree law upheld
• Appleton, WI - smoke-free law upheld
• Kirkwood, MO - Smoke-free referendum failed
• Independence, MO - Victory - comprehensive smoke-free law passed!
• Lee's Summit, MO - Victory - comprehensive smoke-free law passed!

Voters Across America Rebuff Big Tobacco, Approve Ballot Measures
To Reduce Smoking, Save Lives
Statement of William V. Corr
Executive Director, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
Washington, DC (November 8, 2006)

Voters across America on Tuesday dealt decisive defeats to the tobacco
industry and approved an unprecedented six statewide ballot initiatives
to require
smoke-free workplaces, increase tobacco taxes and fund tobacco prevention
programs.* In approving these initiatives, voters rejected multi-million
dollar
campaigns by the tobacco industry to deceive them and sent a loud and
clear
message to elected officials at all levels: Reject the special interests
of the
tobacco industry and protect the public interest by supporting proven
measures to
reduce tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke.

Voters approved ballot measures in Arizona, Nevada and Ohio to require
smoke-free workplaces and public places; in Florida to require that
tobacco
settlement money be used to fund tobacco prevention programs; in South
Dakota to
increase tobacco taxes and fund tobacco prevention and other health care
programs;
and in Arizona, to increase tobacco taxes and fund early childhood
development
programs.* Based on economic models, the two tobacco tax increases will
prevent more than 50,000 kids from starting to smoke, save 23,700 lives
and save
$1.2 billion in long-term health care costs.* The three new smoke-free
laws will
protect more than 19.8 million people from the serious health hazards of
secondhand smoke.* The increased funding for Florida's tobacco prevention
program
will have significant health benefits as well.* We congratulate the many
individuals and organizations that worked to pass these initiatives and
especially
the American Cancer Society for the leadership it has provided.

While voters approved six of the eight statewide tobacco-related
initiatives
on the ballot Tuesday, they unfortunately defeated measures in California
and
Missouri to increase cigarette taxes and fund tobacco prevention and
other
health care programs.* Philip Morris, R.J. Reynolds and other tobacco
interests
spent more than $65 million to defeat the California initiative and more
than
$5 million to defeat the Missouri initiative.* The industry's money
bought a
barrage of deceptive television ads that misled voters about the impact
of these
initiatives, going so far as to claim that the initiatives did not
provide
enough money for tobacco prevention when in fact they would have given
California and Missouri two of the best-funded tobacco prevention
programs in the
country.* Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds have once again put their
profits ahead
of lives, and they should be held accountable for the high cost in
health,
lives and money that the people of California and Missouri will pay.*
Because
these measures were defeated, 766,000 more kids will become smokers in
California
and Missouri, 330,000 more lives will be lost to tobacco-caused disease,
and
these two states will pay $17.5 billion more in long-term health care
costs.

Voters sent an especially clear message that they want elected leaders to
protect the public's right to breathe clean air by enacting laws
requiring that
all workplaces and public places be smoke-free.* In three states,
Arizona,
Nevada and Ohio, voters faced a choice between strong smoke-free
initiatives and
fake initiatives sponsored by the tobacco industry and other special
interests.* In all three states, voters approved strong smoke-free laws
and rejected the
fake initiatives, in many cases by overwhelming margins.* R.J. Reynolds
spent
more than $8.5 million in Arizona and more than $5.4 million in Ohio in
support of their fake initiatives (deceptively named the Arizona Non-
Smoker
Protection Act and Smoke Less Ohio).

Voters on Tuesday also upheld or approved local smoke-free laws across
the
nation, from Baytown, Texas, to Mankato, Minnesota, to Appleton,
Wisconsin.* In
Maryland and New Hampshire, where statewide smoke-free workplace bills
will be
considered in the next legislative session, voters ousted incumbent state
senators who have opposed smoke-free bills in favor of candidates who
support
them.* Between the primaries and general election, three such senators
were
defeated in New Hampshire, where the smoke-free bill failed by one vote
earlier
this year, and two were defeated in Maryland.

With the addition of Arizona and Ohio, 16 states, Puerto Rico and
Washington,
DC have now approved smoke-free laws that include restaurants and bars.*
The
other states are: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii,
Maine,
Massachusetts, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont
and
Washington.* Nevada joins Florida and Idaho in having a strong smoke-free
law
that covers restaurants, but not all bars (Nevada's law exempts bars that
do
not serve food and casino gambling areas).* Other states and communities
should
follow and protect everyone's right to breathe clean air.

Despite the results in California and Missouri, the fact remains that
voters
overwhelming support cigarette tax increases as a scientifically proven
way to
reduce smoking among kids and adults.* In recent years, 42 states, Puerto
Rico and the District of Columbia have increased cigarette taxes.* With
the
Arizona and South Dakota increases approved Tuesday, the average
cigarette tax for
the states, Puerto Rico and DC is now $1 per pack.* There are now six
states
with cigarette tax rates of $2 or more and 22 states with cigarette taxes
of $1
or more.* Chicago has the nation's highest combined state and local
cigarette
tax at $3.66 per pack. In addition, Cuyahoga County, Ohio, voters on
Tuesday
approved a 30-cents per pack cigarette tax increase, producing a total
state-local rate of $1.595 cents per pack in Cuyahoga County.

Voters on Tuesday approved the following statewide ballot initiatives:

Arizona Proposition 201, approved 54.2 to 45.8 percent, requires that all
Arizona workplaces and public places be smoke-free, including restaurants
and
bars.* By 57.3 to 42.7 percent, voters rejected Proposition 206, the
tobacco
industry's fake smoke-free initiative, which would have allowed smoking
in many
restaurants and other workplaces and rolled back existing smoke-free
laws.

Arizona Proposition 203, approved 52.6 to 47.4 percent, increases
Arizona's
cigarette tax by 80 cents per pack (and also increase the tax on other
tobacco
products) and utilizes the revenue to fund early childhood development
programs.

Florida Amendment 4, approved 60.9 to 39.1 percent, requires the Florida
Legislature to set aside 15 percent of the state's annual tobacco
settlement
payments to fund tobacco prevention and cessation programs, restoring
funding for
what was once one of the nation's best tobacco prevention programs.

Nevada Question 5, approved 53.9 to 46.1 percent, requires that Nevada
workplaces and public places be smoke-free, with the exception of casino
gambling
areas and bars that do not serve food.* It also gives local governments
the
authority to pass tougher smoke-free laws. By 52 to 48 percent, voters
rejected a
much weaker initiative, Question 4.

Ohio Issue 5, approved 58.3 to 41.7 percent, requires that all Ohio
workplaces and public places be smoke-free, including restaurants and
bars.* By 64.3 to
35.7 percent, voters rejected Issue 4, the industry's fake smoke-free
initiative.

South Dakota Initiated Measure 2, approved 61 to 39 percent, increases
South
Dakota's cigarette tax by $1 per pack and the tax on other tobacco
products
from 10 percent to 35 percent of the wholesale price. This new revenue
will fund
tobacco prevention and cessation programs, property tax relief, education
enhancement and health care.

"Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
news:QR85h.30$255.378@eagle.america.net...
> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and his trip
> to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's going on, I'm in
> shock but can't fall apart because I have to work every day. He has a
> tumor in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which the dr. said responds best
> to chemo. It was like he was saying if one has cancer, this is the best
> one to get, kind of like an oxymoronic statement.
>
> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a few
> weeks but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if he has ever
> seen longer survivors or had miracle stories with this cancer, and he said
> yes he has.
>
..
> I'm a school teacher, so I'm very concerned about bringing home germs from
> work. I immediately wash my clothes I wore and shower as soon as I walk in
> the door.
>

>
> I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any feedback since
> this is all new to me, and you all seem so supportive and kind.
>
> Thank you!
>
> Giuditta
If it gives you peace of mind, Giuditta, then do it.Peace of Mind is
infectious, too,
and it's therapeutic.
Professor Candace B.Pert of Georgetown university School of Medicine wrote:

"Recent technological innovations have allowed us to examine the molecular
basis
of our emotions, and to begin to understand how the molecules of our
emotions
share intimate connections with, and are indeed inseparable from, our
physiology."

(Molecules of
Emotion, p. 18)

You are praying ? Try to pray together, and try to feel they are answered
when you come away.
Live one day at a time, and with Joy and Gratitude. It can only make more of
them.

"Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in
news:kSn5h.95$255.544@eagle.america.net:

>
> "J" <ercent@anon.inv> wrote in message
> news:4556047A.F7F3848A@execulink.com...
>> Giuditta wrote:
>>
>
> Thanks for the info. Another question about the gig. This one is at a
> nightclub where's there is smoke. His doctor said for him to stay away
> from second-hand smoke...so, now what? I know as soon as he's able
> he'll be playing again anyway. This is all so confusing. I know what
> he loves doing because he's played professionally since he was 14.
> Now, it seems his livelihood is taken from him.
>
Dang that smoke! That could be a problem. I'm sorry to hear about that
part. I guess you live in a smoking state.

I know you're being pulled from all directions, but maybe your DH could
write/call his legislators & describe his plight. He is being deprived of
his livlihood because of cigarette smoke. Maybe a chapter of GASP (Group to
Alleviate Smoking Pollution) could give you some direction. My Socks
worked to get CO's law passed. It passed & was enacted within a year of
his death, dedicated to him by its sponsors,.Chances are, someone is
working on one for your state. Your DH could be a poster child. Just an
idea.

Fig

--

BetsyB

"Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
news:4Um5h.88$255.418@eagle.america.net...
>
> "Figgertoes" <me@privacy.net> wrote in message
> news:Xns98784E7AF2804figgertoes@216.168.3.44...
>> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in
>> news:LHj5h.82$255.117@eagle.america.net:
>>
>>>
>>> "Steph" <steph@vancouvers.island> wrote in message
>>> news:m2e5h.296684$R63.115373@pd7urf1no...
>>>>
>>>> "Giuditta" <jmarrs@myspeedworks.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:QR85h.30$255.378@eagle.america.net...
>>>>> I'm backkkk.....now I have more info from my husband's biopsy and
>>>>> his trip to the oncologist. I'm trying to understand all that's
>>>>> going on, I'm in shock but can't fall apart because I have to work
>>>>> every day. He has a tumor in his lung, and it's fast-growing, which
>>>>> the dr. said responds best to chemo. It was like he was saying if
>>>>> one has cancer, this is the best one to get, kind of like an
>>>>> oxymoronic statement.
>>>>>
>>>>> So, then the dr. tells us that without chemo, he won't last but a
>>>>> few weeks but with chemo he might have 10 to 12 months. I asked if
>>>>> he has ever seen longer survivors or had miracle stories with this
>>>>> cancer, and he said yes he has.
>>>>>
>>>>> His diagnosis is small cell differentiated carcinoma. He has a spot
>>>>> on the liver and adrenal gland, which made his stomach hurt very
>>>>> badly until he started the chemo this week. The dr. started him the
>>>>> day after the diagnosis. Today was his last day for this round. So,
>>>>> far he feels okay, just a bit weak. It's freaking me out because he
>>>>> doesn't even look sick, three weeks ago he was fine (I thought) and
>>>>> now our lives have been turned upsidedown because the kids and I are
>>>>> hurting so much for him.
>>>>>
>>>>> I have been told so many things to do while he's on chemo like
>>>>> keeping everything sterile, he can have fresh veggies or fruit. We
>>>>> are disinfecting the house and washing everything the minute it's
>>>>> used to keep a germ away. I'm a school teacher, so I'm very
>>>>> concerned about bringing home germs from work. I immediately wash my
>>>>> clothes I wore and shower as soon as I walk in the door.
>>>>>
>>>>> I was wondernig if any one here can advise me on what else I need to
>>>>> do. I am also a writer for a newspaper here and just did a story on
>>>>> a lady with the same type cancer my hubby has. Her cancer was stage
>>>>> IV, and she takes chemo. Her doctor told her that the cancer was
>>>>> dying inside of her in the lung because it had no where else to go,
>>>>> so was dying around the edges and leaving her body. I thought this
>>>>> was quite a miracle. She said she has outlived his prognosis by nine
>>>>> months.
>>>>>
>>>>> I am praying for a miracle here too. I would appreciate any feedback
>>>>> since this is all new to me, and you all seem so supportive and
>>>>> kind.
>>>>>
>>>>> Thank you!
>>>>>
>>>>> Giuditta
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>> You don't have to do any of the special cleaning and disinfecting. A
>>>> normally clean house is perfectly safe.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Are you serious? Why are they telling us this? He was told not to even
>>> eat lettuce on a hamburger and not to eat fresh fruits (Is this also
Snipped a bit of this.

Giuditta, I am wondering who told you all this cleaning and disinfecting was
a must?
I have just finished 2 rounds of Chemo and 38 days of Radiation and I was
never told any of this?
I was told to stay clear of anyone who was ill or had flu like symptoms but
as far as scrubbing? No damn way!
Clean and get treated too?
I have a cat, some plants and one husband who is not well so he is virtually
no help. Take it easy and learn to vent here. We will deal with that for
you. We all have been in your shoes for the most part. Some have been the
Patients.
I will get my flu shot within the next week or so.
Take care and you guys go mark a real tree for Dec. cutting. Go early if you
can so it is perfect. We all need something to look forward to.

Betsy

"J" <ercent@anon.inv> wrote in message
news:45560BA0.6BB1D73B@execulink.com...
> Giuditta wrote:
>
>> "Thanks for the info. Another question about the gig. This one is at a
>> nightclub where's there is smoke. His doctor said for him to stay away
>> from
>> second-hand smoke...so, now what? I know as soon as he's able he'll be
>> playing again anyway. This is all so confusing. I know what he loves
>> doing
>> because he's played professionally since he was 14. Now, it seems his
>> livelihood is taken from him.
>
> Oh dear. What State do you live in?
> Colorado has a no-smoking law.
> It would be nice if he could continue his livelihood and what he loves to
> do
> most.
> It sure won't help him breathe if he's in a smokey place.
> Some places put in better ventilation, mandated by the local laws or for
> the
> benefit of customers, but they're expensive, so I doubt that that'll
> happen if
> the owner doesn't promote a non-smoking nightclub.
> I'm sorry. I don't know the solution to this one.
>
>> Thank you for Penny's blog. I will sure read it. My husband never gets
>> near
>> a computer, but I could print some things off for him.
>
> Okay, sounds good = she had same type of cancer and probably the same
> stage, but
> if I recall correctly hers was (initially) in the lung, rib and the
> adrenal.
> J

We live in Mississippi, and they have no such laws about smoking. It's a
Catch-22 situation somewhat.

I have been reading the blog...it tugs at my heartstrings.

Thanks!
Giuditta