Dear Neil,
Great to hear of your improvement. I am so glad you are starting the chemo therapy next week. It is good to get this essential part of your recovery going.
Beware of cousins visiting from Indiana. Larry may not be able to handle them. They will probably be driving a white '41 Ford pickup or a Maroon Buick. Extreme caution is recommended.
I think about you often. Best wishes to you, Kay and family,
Bill Conder
Friday, July 30, 2010
Update July 29, 2010
Today was the visit to the oncologist!! Monday Neil will be returning home and then will begin chemo on Wednesday.
We are very excited that he is strong enough to do this.
I was also elated to find that the shots he needs are $36 per month since we have insurance and $4000 a month if we did not. God is good!!
love, Kay
We are very excited that he is strong enough to do this.
I was also elated to find that the shots he needs are $36 per month since we have insurance and $4000 a month if we did not. God is good!!
love, Kay
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Visitors?
Neil,
I hear good things about your recovery. You are going to have to work to catch up with your two cousins, Danny (260 #) and Chris (235 #) HA! HA! We (Larry, Danny & I) will be down just as soon as your ready to handle we three. Maybe we can get some firecrackers and set off in your neighborhood. That way, your neighbors would know your friends and family from up North were here to entertain you.
Keep on the mend and you still need to get back out on the golf course and shoot your age. That is a goal.....
Cousin, Chris
I hear good things about your recovery. You are going to have to work to catch up with your two cousins, Danny (260 #) and Chris (235 #) HA! HA! We (Larry, Danny & I) will be down just as soon as your ready to handle we three. Maybe we can get some firecrackers and set off in your neighborhood. That way, your neighbors would know your friends and family from up North were here to entertain you.
Keep on the mend and you still need to get back out on the golf course and shoot your age. That is a goal.....
Cousin, Chris
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Tenacity
Hi Neil,
Just wanted to say good morning. I keep up with your progress by reading the blog that Dean set up. It sounds like the Gilmer tenacity is paying dividends. That's the farmer "it's got to be done" blood that runs in you veins. Keep up the exercise: walking, sitting, wiggling the toes.
Say hi to Kay and all for me.
Larry Howell
Just wanted to say good morning. I keep up with your progress by reading the blog that Dean set up. It sounds like the Gilmer tenacity is paying dividends. That's the farmer "it's got to be done" blood that runs in you veins. Keep up the exercise: walking, sitting, wiggling the toes.
Say hi to Kay and all for me.
Larry Howell
Monday, July 26, 2010
July 26, 2010 Update
Ellen was here over the weekend and she and Neil enjoyed some time together. Of course she's the McDonald's queen so she got him and his roommate some "good" food. Neil has begun to eat better anyway and is determined to get better. He wiggles his toes a lot and sits on the side of the bed.
THE BEST NEWS OF ALL IS THAT HE WALKED WITH THE WALKER TODAY. I am so proud that he's trying so hard...giving it all he has to give.
All of our prayers are helping him in a big way! Thanks. Kay
THE BEST NEWS OF ALL IS THAT HE WALKED WITH THE WALKER TODAY. I am so proud that he's trying so hard...giving it all he has to give.
All of our prayers are helping him in a big way! Thanks. Kay
Friday, July 23, 2010
July 23, 2010 Update
Today was a great day. Neil ate all of his breakfast while talking to friends D.R and J. W., fellow golfers. He asked to go to therapy at 10 so he could get started exercising...eager beaver. I don't know what happened but said there was some stir with his messing up the schedule.
At lunch we again ate with the speech therapist and two patients. It was pizza day but he couldn't chew it...not enough teeth and full from breakfast I guess.
His roommate went home today so now he has another. Both he and his wife work for Disney. Neil slept until Helene and Ron arrived with enough yellow gatorade to last for months. Then Tony brought milk shakes for both of us. I'm going to be as big as a barrel. When I got home Sherry E from SC called to see how I was doing since they read the blog about Neil. Neil was in their wedding almost 50 years ago.
Thanks to all for your prayers. I think they're working through this part of the adventure. We'll see what the oncologist says on the 29th. love to all, Kay
At lunch we again ate with the speech therapist and two patients. It was pizza day but he couldn't chew it...not enough teeth and full from breakfast I guess.
His roommate went home today so now he has another. Both he and his wife work for Disney. Neil slept until Helene and Ron arrived with enough yellow gatorade to last for months. Then Tony brought milk shakes for both of us. I'm going to be as big as a barrel. When I got home Sherry E from SC called to see how I was doing since they read the blog about Neil. Neil was in their wedding almost 50 years ago.
Thanks to all for your prayers. I think they're working through this part of the adventure. We'll see what the oncologist says on the 29th. love to all, Kay
July 22, 2010 UPdate
Neil ate a good breakfast and friend Dan R was with him. Then he had therapy before I got there. At lunch he, I and two residents had lunch with the speech therapist. After that he rested and later Dan S came for a visit.
He says his plan is to go ahead with aggressive chemo (assuming the oncologist will allow it)even if he can't stand. The Palms van will take us there. Our appointment on the 29th will let us know the plan.
Last night was interesting. The Palms called me at 11 to say he was going to the hospital for a blood transfusion. Of course I panicked, dressed and went to the Palms. I insisted he go to Dr. Phillips instead of the closer hospital in case there was more to this than met the eye. Well, at 2:30 a.m. Neil called to say there had been a false reading and he was headed back to the Palms. Thank goodness all is well and I slept a little later knowing he was ok after all. The wonderful nurse from last night called me at 7:30 as her shift was ending and told me he was fine and for me to get some sleep myself.
God bless us all. Kay
He says his plan is to go ahead with aggressive chemo (assuming the oncologist will allow it)even if he can't stand. The Palms van will take us there. Our appointment on the 29th will let us know the plan.
Last night was interesting. The Palms called me at 11 to say he was going to the hospital for a blood transfusion. Of course I panicked, dressed and went to the Palms. I insisted he go to Dr. Phillips instead of the closer hospital in case there was more to this than met the eye. Well, at 2:30 a.m. Neil called to say there had been a false reading and he was headed back to the Palms. Thank goodness all is well and I slept a little later knowing he was ok after all. The wonderful nurse from last night called me at 7:30 as her shift was ending and told me he was fine and for me to get some sleep myself.
God bless us all. Kay
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
July 19, 2010 Update
Dan R. and I both noticed he wasn't quite as "up" today as usual. He'd had weekend time without therapy so maybe that was it. Lisa, the occupational therapist brought him a Donald Duck golf ball that perked him up a little. He did eat a little but didn't want the leftover doughnut. He did sit on the side of the bed and then slept most of the morning.
He ate very little at noon but Tammy, the speech therapist has taken him off the cut up diet so maybe food will look better to him.
Upon entering this morning I asked to speak to someone about his meds and his bed. Nurse Linda Allee, who comes several times a week stopped in to talk. She's giving him heavier meds and allowed us to put the blow up mattress on to relieve pain on his back.
He really had to work at occupational therapy and I even lifted some weights. He was in pain but tried very hard. Carl B. stopped in but couldn't visit long since Neil was in therapy.
Next he went to the speech office for therapy..ate some cookies...came back to the room and got sick at his stomach I cancelled Greenmans visit and came home early to think...what next.. Do we need a feeding tube? Many of you have sent ideas, most of which have been tried by the hospital, rehab and family.
Thanks to all. love, Kay
He ate very little at noon but Tammy, the speech therapist has taken him off the cut up diet so maybe food will look better to him.
Upon entering this morning I asked to speak to someone about his meds and his bed. Nurse Linda Allee, who comes several times a week stopped in to talk. She's giving him heavier meds and allowed us to put the blow up mattress on to relieve pain on his back.
He really had to work at occupational therapy and I even lifted some weights. He was in pain but tried very hard. Carl B. stopped in but couldn't visit long since Neil was in therapy.
Next he went to the speech office for therapy..ate some cookies...came back to the room and got sick at his stomach I cancelled Greenmans visit and came home early to think...what next.. Do we need a feeding tube? Many of you have sent ideas, most of which have been tried by the hospital, rehab and family.
Thanks to all. love, Kay
Monday, July 19, 2010
The Clean Plate Club
Please tell my Big Brother I'm counting on him to clean up his plate!
And, I'm gonna 'tattle tale if he feeds the meat to Ned!' Well, Ned would be 61 today if that incredibly smart, wonderful German Shepherd were still alive, so, in this case... I'm just gonna TELL if he sends his plate back with food still on it!
Yeah, I was an awful snitch back in the early 50s. Then, when I turned 14, he had more dirt on me than I had on him and the tables turned. Then, he kept me pretty well in line. . . til he ran off to Butler.
Which reminds me, did I tell you Janie Hagan Stevens (she married Chuck Stevens) came to the Hagerstown Museum last week? She's praying for Neil, like everyone else. She told Tom she had a huge crush on him in high school, but he never noticed.
Also, the Haisley family came to the museum Friday and asked about Neil. Their mother, Priscilla Haisley (a classmate of Aunt Mildred's) just died. They're all praying for Neil, too.
Which reminds me, Aunt Mildred called Sunday night, worried about Neil. Sure wish she had email! I keep forgetting to call her with updates, but I promise to do better. She's praying all the time for his speedy recovery. And, we all know she's well connected. She really believes prayer brought her back more than once.
I saw John Roberts (HHS '58) Thursday night and he asked me to tell Neil he's praying for him, too. John's a Hagerstown City Councilman and a fellow member of the Hagerstown Flying Circus committee. We're having about 35 Vintage Aircraft coming to the "Longest, Best Grass Airstrip in America" Tuesday, July 20. The vintage pilots stage quite a show in Hagerstown, while on their way to OshKosh, by gosh. But, guess what? They LOVE Hagerstown, by golly!
And Hagerstown LOVES Neil Gilmer!!!!!
Love and constant prayer,
Mary Anne
And, I'm gonna 'tattle tale if he feeds the meat to Ned!' Well, Ned would be 61 today if that incredibly smart, wonderful German Shepherd were still alive, so, in this case... I'm just gonna TELL if he sends his plate back with food still on it!
Yeah, I was an awful snitch back in the early 50s. Then, when I turned 14, he had more dirt on me than I had on him and the tables turned. Then, he kept me pretty well in line. . . til he ran off to Butler.
Which reminds me, did I tell you Janie Hagan Stevens (she married Chuck Stevens) came to the Hagerstown Museum last week? She's praying for Neil, like everyone else. She told Tom she had a huge crush on him in high school, but he never noticed.
Also, the Haisley family came to the museum Friday and asked about Neil. Their mother, Priscilla Haisley (a classmate of Aunt Mildred's) just died. They're all praying for Neil, too.
Which reminds me, Aunt Mildred called Sunday night, worried about Neil. Sure wish she had email! I keep forgetting to call her with updates, but I promise to do better. She's praying all the time for his speedy recovery. And, we all know she's well connected. She really believes prayer brought her back more than once.
I saw John Roberts (HHS '58) Thursday night and he asked me to tell Neil he's praying for him, too. John's a Hagerstown City Councilman and a fellow member of the Hagerstown Flying Circus committee. We're having about 35 Vintage Aircraft coming to the "Longest, Best Grass Airstrip in America" Tuesday, July 20. The vintage pilots stage quite a show in Hagerstown, while on their way to OshKosh, by gosh. But, guess what? They LOVE Hagerstown, by golly!
And Hagerstown LOVES Neil Gilmer!!!!!
Love and constant prayer,
Mary Anne
Friday, July 16, 2010
Swing Harder! Or just believe in yourself, it's easier.
From Jim:
Neil was very talkative tonight. He sat up about 45 minutes while having dinner. Right before dinner, they had to change the pouch. He drank cranberry juice and a carton of milk, ate a few French fries. He tried the chicken but it was so dry he couldn't swallow it. I asked him if he had given up and he said definitely no and that he is moving more and more all the time in bed. I thought he looked very good compared to last week.
Kay, when you feel like having lunch out someday, let me know. Your friends from card group would love to see you.- only when you are ready.
Love you, Trish
_______________________
I was very encouraged to read Jim/Trishs's email tonight. That is Dad. Jim asked if he has given up or ready to quit and he said definitely not. Dad will never give up or quit. His body may fail, as all of ours will eventually. But he will never lose willingly. He doesn't know how. There is nothing in him that allows defeat or surrender. It may come. But not willingly. I have never been in a game, sport or competition where he did not feel he or we could win. Never. And he loved competition. It is not within his being to allow defeat. He may lose in this or that. But it will come as a surprise to him- no matter the odds. Anyone that has ever been in competition (or likely business or any other venture, no matter what it is) on his side knows this. You could have a much worse team. Much worse. (We often did, BUT WON- despite the odds- in no small measure to Neil Gilmer.) Though with Neil on your side you would always feel, always, somehow, ridiculously perhaps, there was a good chance of winning. Not because you were better. But mainly because he believed in you! And he was rarely wrong. And thus you believed in yourself. He instills this in you. If you have ever competed against him- especially if you were up a few runs or strokes- you know what I am talking about. He could likely talk you out of a few strokes or runs very easily. "Swing harder!" But, if you were on his team you would hear things like "We are just as good as them" or "2 runs and we win" or "They can't beat us today. It's our time", or "Do you know how good it will feel when we win?" (My favorites are "Lay it up close to the pin" and "Strike him out") If he was on your team- as we all are now- now, he believes in you! We believe in him! It's just a seven iron pitch and run tight to the flag or maybe a sandwich (unbelievably), now, to victory. "Can you taste it?"
Love you Dad. Dean
Neil was very talkative tonight. He sat up about 45 minutes while having dinner. Right before dinner, they had to change the pouch. He drank cranberry juice and a carton of milk, ate a few French fries. He tried the chicken but it was so dry he couldn't swallow it. I asked him if he had given up and he said definitely no and that he is moving more and more all the time in bed. I thought he looked very good compared to last week.
Kay, when you feel like having lunch out someday, let me know. Your friends from card group would love to see you.- only when you are ready.
Love you, Trish
_______________________
I was very encouraged to read Jim/Trishs's email tonight. That is Dad. Jim asked if he has given up or ready to quit and he said definitely not. Dad will never give up or quit. His body may fail, as all of ours will eventually. But he will never lose willingly. He doesn't know how. There is nothing in him that allows defeat or surrender. It may come. But not willingly. I have never been in a game, sport or competition where he did not feel he or we could win. Never. And he loved competition. It is not within his being to allow defeat. He may lose in this or that. But it will come as a surprise to him- no matter the odds. Anyone that has ever been in competition (or likely business or any other venture, no matter what it is) on his side knows this. You could have a much worse team. Much worse. (We often did, BUT WON- despite the odds- in no small measure to Neil Gilmer.) Though with Neil on your side you would always feel, always, somehow, ridiculously perhaps, there was a good chance of winning. Not because you were better. But mainly because he believed in you! And he was rarely wrong. And thus you believed in yourself. He instills this in you. If you have ever competed against him- especially if you were up a few runs or strokes- you know what I am talking about. He could likely talk you out of a few strokes or runs very easily. "Swing harder!" But, if you were on his team you would hear things like "We are just as good as them" or "2 runs and we win" or "They can't beat us today. It's our time", or "Do you know how good it will feel when we win?" (My favorites are "Lay it up close to the pin" and "Strike him out") If he was on your team- as we all are now- now, he believes in you! We believe in him! It's just a seven iron pitch and run tight to the flag or maybe a sandwich (unbelievably), now, to victory. "Can you taste it?"
Love you Dad. Dean
July 16, 2010 Update
Another encouraging day.
Dan R. was there at eight and I arrived at nine. We made him sit on the edge of the bed for some of his breakfast. By the time breakfast arrived Monica, his CNA already had him cleaned up and ready for the day.
Lisa, the energetic occupational person came in to say hi. Supposedly, don't know how soon that can happen, she'll bring a golf putter and have him give her lessons.
He did work with her later in the day but I missed it because of my admissions meeting...mostly signing papers. We will have a meeting in two weeks to make further plans. I've asked a retired nurse to try to be with me at that meeting so I get everything straight in my head. The PTs Julia and Joyce got him in the wheelchair for some therapy as well.
The Speech therapist, Tammy, invited him to her office for lunch with two other men for some conversation and lunch. However, by then he was too tired and she stayed in the room with him while he ate. We're not getting too far with this but Jim G. is trying again tonight. Last night Helene was bawled out by the roommate's wife for being too loud. So today I told the roommate I was sorry but we listen to his VERY LOUD snore all day long.
While Neil was dining with the speech therapist two of my Fabs friends, Carole and Jean brought lunch from Mimi's and the three of us dined at our own little table.
I still can't believe all of the things people think of to do. Pam even left a package on the front porch.
At the end of my visit Tony dropped in and so did Dr. Hizkill. He answered most of my questions and said Linda (nurse, I think)would be stopping by while he's away. Usually he's there on Fridays. He's going to check on Neil's pain killers as the pain continues. Yes, Ellen, all heavy duty pain killers can become addictive. I'm to call Dr. Vini Hernandez and they can make arrangements for him to go for chemo when the time is right.
Thanks to all...off to bed soon. love, Kay
Dan R. was there at eight and I arrived at nine. We made him sit on the edge of the bed for some of his breakfast. By the time breakfast arrived Monica, his CNA already had him cleaned up and ready for the day.
Lisa, the energetic occupational person came in to say hi. Supposedly, don't know how soon that can happen, she'll bring a golf putter and have him give her lessons.
He did work with her later in the day but I missed it because of my admissions meeting...mostly signing papers. We will have a meeting in two weeks to make further plans. I've asked a retired nurse to try to be with me at that meeting so I get everything straight in my head. The PTs Julia and Joyce got him in the wheelchair for some therapy as well.
The Speech therapist, Tammy, invited him to her office for lunch with two other men for some conversation and lunch. However, by then he was too tired and she stayed in the room with him while he ate. We're not getting too far with this but Jim G. is trying again tonight. Last night Helene was bawled out by the roommate's wife for being too loud. So today I told the roommate I was sorry but we listen to his VERY LOUD snore all day long.
While Neil was dining with the speech therapist two of my Fabs friends, Carole and Jean brought lunch from Mimi's and the three of us dined at our own little table.
I still can't believe all of the things people think of to do. Pam even left a package on the front porch.
At the end of my visit Tony dropped in and so did Dr. Hizkill. He answered most of my questions and said Linda (nurse, I think)would be stopping by while he's away. Usually he's there on Fridays. He's going to check on Neil's pain killers as the pain continues. Yes, Ellen, all heavy duty pain killers can become addictive. I'm to call Dr. Vini Hernandez and they can make arrangements for him to go for chemo when the time is right.
Thanks to all...off to bed soon. love, Kay
July 15, 2010 Update
This was another busy day. Dan R. encouraged him at breakfast and Helene and Ron at dinner. He ate his lunch in the office of the speech therapist with her and another woman. He still isn't eating much and called Helene a warden/manipulator....whatever works we'll try. I ate lunch in the dining room with a patient and an employee.
The PTs were able to slide him into a wheelchair and take him to the "gym". While there he squeezed a ball between his legs, rocked his feet and slid a cloth with his feet. The activities director inquired about his interests for different programs. The occupational therapist today was young and vibrant and did the exercises right along with him but he was in bed She told Carolyn,who was visiting that we should join them tomorrow.
My meeting with James Metcalf, Director of Nursing, Chanel Steptoe, Social Services Director and Dean Richardson, Rehab Director finally happened this afternoon. I still have questions! There will be an evaluation in 2 weeks as to his condition. I emphasized that our goal is to build him up in 2 weeks, not months, so that he can have chemo again.
Progress is happening and he seems determined. love to all, Kay
Tomorrow I'm to meet with Tonya Wright, Admissions Director, at 11:30.
The PTs were able to slide him into a wheelchair and take him to the "gym". While there he squeezed a ball between his legs, rocked his feet and slid a cloth with his feet. The activities director inquired about his interests for different programs. The occupational therapist today was young and vibrant and did the exercises right along with him but he was in bed She told Carolyn,who was visiting that we should join them tomorrow.
My meeting with James Metcalf, Director of Nursing, Chanel Steptoe, Social Services Director and Dean Richardson, Rehab Director finally happened this afternoon. I still have questions! There will be an evaluation in 2 weeks as to his condition. I emphasized that our goal is to build him up in 2 weeks, not months, so that he can have chemo again.
Progress is happening and he seems determined. love to all, Kay
Tomorrow I'm to meet with Tonya Wright, Admissions Director, at 11:30.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
July 14, 2010 Update
What a surprising day this was....in a good way.
Dan R showed up around 8 a.m. and was a big encourager to get Neil to eat his breakfast. Dan even helped me to navigate the building and find all that might be needed. He's coming back tomorrow morning and I get an extra hour of sleep.
Then our niece Amy G from Bradenton arrived to help us d remember all that was said and I think spy for Ellen. I had no idea she was coming. Of course she had talked to Ellen and had a list of questions for me to ask.
We haven't yet had the admissions meeting but lots has happened. The speech therapist and dietician are working together to find the right foods for Neil to eat. His swallowing and chewing abilities were also checked. His tongue shakes so is considered weak.
There were two physical therapists working with him and actually got him to stand up...painful but he did it!!! We also saw him doing simple exercises on his own with his legs during the day.
The occupational therapist expects me to do a lot of the work with him and showed us a few and gave us a list. I think she'll also be working with him.
His roommate Tim introduced him to healthy shakes so we'll be ordering them as well. You might know Tim as a bus driver for Disney.
Helene and Ron will encourage him at dinner on Thursday and Jim G will do the same on Friday. Our son, Dean, hopes to be in town on Monday. Watch out Neil!!!!He's going to lower the boom.
For those assisting with the encouragement at meal time there are a few things to know.
Directions:
Left on Donegan from John Young
Right on N. Central
Palms will be on your left
You can buy a meal ticket at the front desk for $3.
The menu and activities are on the bulletin board in Neil's room.
When Neil eats he should sit at a 90 degree angle. It is best on the side of the bed but if he refuses just put the bed up. He should stay in that position 30 minutes after eating.
If he doesn't like the food you can ask the CNA for something else. Be sure he has a healthy shake when possible.
Check his order for nothing spicy, nothing green and nothing with seeds.
If you arrive there after 5 ring the bell on the right. When it dings open the door. To get out the code is 321* after 5.
Meals are at approximately 7:30, 12 and 4:30 but may vary.
If you can't stay the whole time please get him started.
Schedule: Dan R...Wed.& Thursday mornings; Helene and Ron...Thursday evening; Jim G ...Friday evening.
Kay has a 2:45 admissions meeting on Thursday.
Thanks so much to all. I think we've made the right decision for the rehab. Kay
Dan R showed up around 8 a.m. and was a big encourager to get Neil to eat his breakfast. Dan even helped me to navigate the building and find all that might be needed. He's coming back tomorrow morning and I get an extra hour of sleep.
Then our niece Amy G from Bradenton arrived to help us d remember all that was said and I think spy for Ellen. I had no idea she was coming. Of course she had talked to Ellen and had a list of questions for me to ask.
We haven't yet had the admissions meeting but lots has happened. The speech therapist and dietician are working together to find the right foods for Neil to eat. His swallowing and chewing abilities were also checked. His tongue shakes so is considered weak.
There were two physical therapists working with him and actually got him to stand up...painful but he did it!!! We also saw him doing simple exercises on his own with his legs during the day.
The occupational therapist expects me to do a lot of the work with him and showed us a few and gave us a list. I think she'll also be working with him.
His roommate Tim introduced him to healthy shakes so we'll be ordering them as well. You might know Tim as a bus driver for Disney.
Helene and Ron will encourage him at dinner on Thursday and Jim G will do the same on Friday. Our son, Dean, hopes to be in town on Monday. Watch out Neil!!!!He's going to lower the boom.
For those assisting with the encouragement at meal time there are a few things to know.
Directions:
Left on Donegan from John Young
Right on N. Central
Palms will be on your left
You can buy a meal ticket at the front desk for $3.
The menu and activities are on the bulletin board in Neil's room.
When Neil eats he should sit at a 90 degree angle. It is best on the side of the bed but if he refuses just put the bed up. He should stay in that position 30 minutes after eating.
If he doesn't like the food you can ask the CNA for something else. Be sure he has a healthy shake when possible.
Check his order for nothing spicy, nothing green and nothing with seeds.
If you arrive there after 5 ring the bell on the right. When it dings open the door. To get out the code is 321* after 5.
Meals are at approximately 7:30, 12 and 4:30 but may vary.
If you can't stay the whole time please get him started.
Schedule: Dan R...Wed.& Thursday mornings; Helene and Ron...Thursday evening; Jim G ...Friday evening.
Kay has a 2:45 admissions meeting on Thursday.
Thanks so much to all. I think we've made the right decision for the rehab. Kay
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
July 13, 2010 Update
Neil is all moved into The Palms at Park Place and it seems like a nice place.
I am looking for anyone who could help me inspire him at meal times. It would most likely take an hour or so as he is slow and needs much encouragement. If you are able to do any of the meals for the next two weeks It would be terrific.
Breakfast...approximately 7:30-8:30
Lunch..around noon
Dinner...4:30-5:30
If he says he doesn't like something you can always ask them to bring him something different. I would, of course, not expect you to do it more than once but as many are noticing I am wearing out. The mornings are the hardest for me as I used to sleep until nine. Sometimes he falls asleep and starts to drop something or stop eating so you have to remind him to EAT!
Tony G has supplied me with the easiest path to get there.
The best way is to enter Donegan left from John Young, and you immediately see the school on the left side, immediately after the school there is N. Central Ave. You turn right and drive a bout half a mile and you will see Park Place Bldv. and the Palms is at the corner.
I have to be there all day tomorrow, Wed., July 14 to work out details but if you are available any other day he and I would love it. We must get him built up in the next 2 weeks.
Thanks in advance for any help you can give us. Kay & Neil
I am looking for anyone who could help me inspire him at meal times. It would most likely take an hour or so as he is slow and needs much encouragement. If you are able to do any of the meals for the next two weeks It would be terrific.
Breakfast...approximately 7:30-8:30
Lunch..around noon
Dinner...4:30-5:30
If he says he doesn't like something you can always ask them to bring him something different. I would, of course, not expect you to do it more than once but as many are noticing I am wearing out. The mornings are the hardest for me as I used to sleep until nine. Sometimes he falls asleep and starts to drop something or stop eating so you have to remind him to EAT!
Tony G has supplied me with the easiest path to get there.
The best way is to enter Donegan left from John Young, and you immediately see the school on the left side, immediately after the school there is N. Central Ave. You turn right and drive a bout half a mile and you will see Park Place Bldv. and the Palms is at the corner.
I have to be there all day tomorrow, Wed., July 14 to work out details but if you are available any other day he and I would love it. We must get him built up in the next 2 weeks.
Thanks in advance for any help you can give us. Kay & Neil
July 13, 2010 Update
Neil will be moving to
The Palms
221 Park Place Blvd
Kissimmee, FL 34741
sometime today...Tuesday, July 13, 2010
He will be in a room with another gentleman.
It is not too far from home and seems to be rated well.
He has to start eating regular food and get more exercise in order to start chemo again. Because of the aggressiveness of this cancer it is imperative that it start in a couple of weeks, not months.
love to all, Kay
The Palms
221 Park Place Blvd
Kissimmee, FL 34741
sometime today...Tuesday, July 13, 2010
He will be in a room with another gentleman.
It is not too far from home and seems to be rated well.
He has to start eating regular food and get more exercise in order to start chemo again. Because of the aggressiveness of this cancer it is imperative that it start in a couple of weeks, not months.
love to all, Kay
Monday, July 12, 2010
July 11, 2010 Update. Day 66.
Neil called me himself at 6 :30 a.m. to say he felt abandoned by the nurses. I arrived by 7. He had oxygen, and Gatorade that he had poured himself (so all was well). Guess he was on heavy meds!! He was right across from the nurses station in 5122 with an alarm on his bed if he tried to get up. I feel he's getting great care!!
I told him he might have to have a temporary feeding tube unless he started eating so he ate a little better today.
Since his white blood cells are out of whack he can't have flowers. vegetables or fruits in the room.
Helene and Ron stayed with him from 10-1 so I could go to church. Both doctors had been there while I was there(did not give me this news) but when the social worker came in she informed them that Neil would stay at the hospital a few days and then move to a rehabilitation center for rehab. We don't know the exact days and of course things change by the hour/minute. He remains in good spirits and so do I, most of the time!!! Love to all, Kay
I told him he might have to have a temporary feeding tube unless he started eating so he ate a little better today.
Since his white blood cells are out of whack he can't have flowers. vegetables or fruits in the room.
Helene and Ron stayed with him from 10-1 so I could go to church. Both doctors had been there while I was there(did not give me this news) but when the social worker came in she informed them that Neil would stay at the hospital a few days and then move to a rehabilitation center for rehab. We don't know the exact days and of course things change by the hour/minute. He remains in good spirits and so do I, most of the time!!! Love to all, Kay
Saturday, July 10, 2010
July 9, 2010 Update. Day 64
Neil had his thrombectomy surgery this morning. The nurse called me at 6 as he told her he needed me before seven. When I arrived he told me there had been a lot of controversy going on in his room and the TV station was present. Obviously, (the previous story suggests) he remains on a lot of medicines. Anyway, Dr. Garnette, the vascular surgeon said his part went well but Neil still has a long way to go. At least he is not using oxygen at this time. They are continuing to try to get him to eat but he prefers Gatorade to anything. Dr. Ayadi came in this afternoon and thinks that chemo will be done in the hospital next week and that he'll return home the end of the week.
Thanks to Helene, Ron, Jim and the Geaches my PT is running smoothly again. Thanks to Carolyn for going to the gas station with me. It's been a long time since I've had that chore so she had to be sure I knew what I was doing.
Next week I've lined up some babysitters for Neil so I can come home earlier to rest up before he returns home. Thanks to Dan, Helene, Ron, Tony, and Jim.
Thanks to the Mongoven for miraculously making the old trashmaker disappear and to our daughter for making our garage look like new.
Have a great weekend...love to all. Kay
Thanks to Helene, Ron, Jim and the Geaches my PT is running smoothly again. Thanks to Carolyn for going to the gas station with me. It's been a long time since I've had that chore so she had to be sure I knew what I was doing.
Next week I've lined up some babysitters for Neil so I can come home earlier to rest up before he returns home. Thanks to Dan, Helene, Ron, Tony, and Jim.
Thanks to the Mongoven for miraculously making the old trashmaker disappear and to our daughter for making our garage look like new.
Have a great weekend...love to all. Kay
Thursday, July 8, 2010
July 7, 2010 Update
Neil will have a thrombectomy on Thursday afternoon or Friday morning at Dr. P. Phillips hospital. He has not been able to stand for many days now so we are hoping this is the answer. This involves the removal of thrombi (blood clots) as I understand it.
The dieticians are working hard to get protein into him by healthy hot shot..24g protein. and magic cup with 9 grams of protein. Never heard of them...a hospital thing...so hope it helps.
.. He continues to be on heavy duty drugs. Ellen and I bought sippee cups so he doesn't spill as much. Keep those prayers going please. love, The Gilmers
The dieticians are working hard to get protein into him by healthy hot shot..24g protein. and magic cup with 9 grams of protein. Never heard of them...a hospital thing...so hope it helps.
.. He continues to be on heavy duty drugs. Ellen and I bought sippee cups so he doesn't spill as much. Keep those prayers going please. love, The Gilmers
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Update July 6, 2010 Day 61
Yesterday we both got to ride in the ambulance to Dr. Phillips Hospital. I will now take that off of my bucket list. Neil's leg had been hurting for a few days...so under consultation with Ellen, Dean, Helene and Ron we decided to call the doctor. The doctor on call told us to go to the hospital. The doppler was done last night.
Today they told us there were no new blood clots but he had chemo legs..we think he said plebitis.a blood clot in the vein causing swelling, pain and irritation..that cumadin had not helped. Thus they are beginning Arixtra injections once a day. Neil is being given stronger meds for the pain and the hiccups were checked out by the speech therapist to be sure there were no problems there with swelling and miracle milk was recommended for the mouth....ok.
Cory is the PT person and was able to get Neil to sit on the side of the bed if Cory held his leg. He will be there everyday except the week end to help with this condition.
The diatitionist talked to us all and made some suggestions. Pureed peaches are now his food of choice. Other persons entered the room..too numerous to mention other than our new pastor LeAnn Inman, who came to have prayer with us.
We're wondering what excitement we could bore you with next.
Our kids and Neil told me I had to come home after helping him with his dinner so here I am sitting at the computer and soon going to bed.
Our special thanks to Helene and Ron for all they did for us in the excitement of yesterday!!!
love, Kay and family
Today they told us there were no new blood clots but he had chemo legs..we think he said plebitis.a blood clot in the vein causing swelling, pain and irritation..that cumadin had not helped. Thus they are beginning Arixtra injections once a day. Neil is being given stronger meds for the pain and the hiccups were checked out by the speech therapist to be sure there were no problems there with swelling and miracle milk was recommended for the mouth....ok.
Cory is the PT person and was able to get Neil to sit on the side of the bed if Cory held his leg. He will be there everyday except the week end to help with this condition.
The diatitionist talked to us all and made some suggestions. Pureed peaches are now his food of choice. Other persons entered the room..too numerous to mention other than our new pastor LeAnn Inman, who came to have prayer with us.
We're wondering what excitement we could bore you with next.
Our kids and Neil told me I had to come home after helping him with his dinner so here I am sitting at the computer and soon going to bed.
Our special thanks to Helene and Ron for all they did for us in the excitement of yesterday!!!
love, Kay and family
Update June 5, 2010
Neil returned to Dr. Phillips hospital today with possible blood clots and will remain for 3 or 4 days.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Happy Independence Day to Neil and family
Nan and I wish to extend to you our best wishes for your continued
improvement in physical and mental strength. The day to day progress
is like golf with pars, bogies (falling out of car !) and birdies
(gaining weight !) but progress over a series of rounds is what
counts ! Keep on swinging !!
Kay, you keep on teeing it up for Neil - great job !!
Nan and I are UpNorth with youngest son and grandkids enjoying the
Cherry Festival and the Blue Angels air show - and great weather !
Steve & Nan Z
improvement in physical and mental strength. The day to day progress
is like golf with pars, bogies (falling out of car !) and birdies
(gaining weight !) but progress over a series of rounds is what
counts ! Keep on swinging !!
Kay, you keep on teeing it up for Neil - great job !!
Nan and I are UpNorth with youngest son and grandkids enjoying the
Cherry Festival and the Blue Angels air show - and great weather !
Steve & Nan Z
Friday, July 2, 2010
Update July 2, 2010
Neil is doing a lot beter both physically and mentally and I am so relieved. We finished our second week of chemo with a bang!! Monday was a normal day but he insisted on the wheelchair, with the advice of Salvadore the PT expert. He was still weak at that time. Tuesday seemed to be a day of advancement and he was ready to hit the road. Well, that he did, as soon as we returned from chemo. Being macho he decided to get out of the car by himself since I was too slow to help him. He landed kerplunk on the garage floor,on his back. Someone up there was definitely watching out for him as he had no broken bones, but does have some bruise pain. He says he put his earlier football knowledge to work and that is what saved him. Thank goodness Helene and Ron were home and came to our rescue. Neil went to bed with his oxygen and spoke on the phone with his cousins Thus, I knew he was ok.
Wednesday was a little funnier. I'm not an expert with the wheelchair yet so I couldn't get the seat all the way down. I told him to sit down and it would go down with him. It did, but his pants got caught and there was no way to get them off for him to stand without cutting his pants. It didn't hurt the borrowed wheelchair but the shorts are a thing of the past. Our 26 lb. wheelchair (still heavy) was delivered today but hope he'll be mostly walking soon.
Thursday, July 1...can you believe it? Day 56
Neil's lungs are good today but his right leg is very swolen. Does anyone know tricks for getting rid of hiccups? Sometimes he sounds like a barking dog. Our angel came today and I slept for four hours...guess I was tired!!
Friday..July 2..He's gained 4 pounds..194..but still less than most of his immediate family. We just don't want to lose the way he did! We're still having trouble with the cumadin levels..now they're too low..The day started with Sarah, the cumadin nurse at 8, then Salvadore, the PT guy at 8:30, next came breakfast and now waiting for Jean, the bather. I use to get up at 9 each morning..my how life changes in an instant.
Everyone have a wonderful weekend. We're waiting for Ellen on Sat. to bring some excitement to the household. Happy Fourth.
love, Kay and family
Wednesday was a little funnier. I'm not an expert with the wheelchair yet so I couldn't get the seat all the way down. I told him to sit down and it would go down with him. It did, but his pants got caught and there was no way to get them off for him to stand without cutting his pants. It didn't hurt the borrowed wheelchair but the shorts are a thing of the past. Our 26 lb. wheelchair (still heavy) was delivered today but hope he'll be mostly walking soon.
Thursday, July 1...can you believe it? Day 56
Neil's lungs are good today but his right leg is very swolen. Does anyone know tricks for getting rid of hiccups? Sometimes he sounds like a barking dog. Our angel came today and I slept for four hours...guess I was tired!!
Friday..July 2..He's gained 4 pounds..194..but still less than most of his immediate family. We just don't want to lose the way he did! We're still having trouble with the cumadin levels..now they're too low..The day started with Sarah, the cumadin nurse at 8, then Salvadore, the PT guy at 8:30, next came breakfast and now waiting for Jean, the bather. I use to get up at 9 each morning..my how life changes in an instant.
Everyone have a wonderful weekend. We're waiting for Ellen on Sat. to bring some excitement to the household. Happy Fourth.
love, Kay and family
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