Responding to comments…
For those of you who don’t know, in the “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Triology” a super computer was constructed to answer the question: “What is the meaning of life, the universe, and everything?” As it turns out, the answer was 42. Which, as Aunt Catherine (MaryBeth’s sister) pointed out is also my birthday. I am not sure I agree that I am part of the answer to life, the universe, and everything…but who am I to argue with such reasoned logic??
Rhonda asked, in response to my post about the levels of various biomarkers, about my CA19-9 (carbohydrate antigen 19-9) levels. The CA19-9 test is a blood test from the tumor marker category. Unfortunately for me, the CA19-9 is not a very good measure for identifying pancreas cancer because those of us with this type of cancer have a deficiency of fucosyltransferase that is needed to produce CA19-9. With all that as background, through the 8+ months leading up to my cancer diagnosis my CA19-9 levels were in generally in the 40s (normal levels are 37 and lower). Rhonda, in answer to your question, the oncologist only ran the CA19-9 once since he’s seen me; when he ran it, my level was 58. (One does not get terribly upset until this biomarker is 200+ or more.)
As Cathy mentioned, a friend had ordered me an “I’m Not Dead Yet!” t-shirt from Zazzle. Here is a link to the Zazzle page with that t-shirt. I am partial to the ‘Ringer T-shirt’ (the one with the colored neckline and sleeve bands). While not necessary, please feel free to order your own today. Who knows, perhaps they’ll be worth something some day!
I know I have said this before, but I wanted to again say how lucky I feel to have so many people pulling for and supporting me. Whether it’s just reading my blog and leaving positive thoughts / comments or doing something else, I really want you to know how meaningful your love and caring are to me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!
Last thing, MaryBeth and I spent some time with an LCSW on Monday to discuss how my cancer is affecting our relationship, as well as the impact it has on our kids and our relationships with the kids. Jean, the LCSW, sent us a flyer yesterday for a program I wanted to let you all know about. The Jack and Jill Foundation for Late Stage Cancer is dedicated to provide memorable experiences for families with young children whose parents have late stage cancer. The foundation is based here in Atlanta and I have volunteered to provide photographic services for families on these WOW experiences. I think this is a great organization and I encourage you all to do what you can. I am not currently eligible for the foundation’s services, so in the meantime, I’ll provide those who are with whatever support I am able.
Until next time…
Merle
BTW… I’ll be booking my tickets on Air Tran, whom I noticed is one of the sponsors of the Jack and Jill / WOW program. Go me (and Air Tran, I suppose)!
Considering we’ve been related for over 30 years, I realize that I really don’t know you very well. Like the fact that you’re so scientific (and therefore are having trouble embracing the whle visualization thing – which I, btw, totally believe in), or the fact that you don’t believe there’s a higher power actively involved in your life (which I still haven’t worked out for myself yet), or your incredible capacity to give (through scouting, and now volunteering with Jack and Jill/WOW). The more I read your blog, the more I realize how much I’ve been missing.
I’m glad too that you have so many people pulling for you and supporting you. We (Yaniv, Rakefet and I) are still with you too (and with MB and the boys). Of couse you’re not dead yet.
Heh Merle!
Great idea..the Jack and Jill Foundation. I have never heard of them before. And you are the perfect photographer..NOT because you have cancer, but because you bring out the best in your subjects. The photos you took of my family are the best photos we have, individually and as a group, hands down. You haven’t talked about your photography business very much on your posts, but you are among the best.
Ok..i won’t say anymore “You look good”, but what I meant was: “You’re really handsome with your head shaved” – just like you might compliment a woman friend with a new hair cut!
Later dear friend, joann
Hi Merle, I was just talking with Elaine last night and she told me about your web site. I have really enjoyed reading what you have to say. You have a wonderful way with words and so many thoughts and perspectives that touch so many of us. I know you are all looking forward to Elaine’s visit. Her presence will bring lots of comfort to all of you. I think of you, MB and the boys often. I will continue to follow your blog (a new concerpt for us over 55′s)….Love to you all.