Jill and I are getting ready for the trip to lower Manhattan on Friday. Someone with access to a plane has generously given us some of their flight time for this trip, so we’ll be leaving early Friday morning and coming back on Friday evening. The opportunity to go up and back is a real blessing right now and has, honestly, allowed the trip to happen so quickly.
I just got off the phone with Dr. Dutcher’s office and she has given her approval for me to shoot digital video at our office visit on Friday. I wanted to do that for a couple of reasons. I want to remember every word she says, so that I can share them with Dr. Pippas, who I’d really like to have with us on Friday. I’d love for my incredible, mad-scientist oncologist, Dr. Andy Pippas, to have a conversation with HDIL-2 guru, Dr. Janice Dutcher, Β while I was a fly on the wall watching. That would be great. But the video will have to do, in this case.
Also, I’m going to consider posting some, or all, of the video on my blog for people to see Dr. Dutcher in action. She is a world-class renal cell cancer oncologist and is highly sought out for her knowledge about this insidious disease.
If a couple of back surgeries and cancer were not enough, I have developed a case of gout in my right great toe. It hurts like hell. I was able to reach my friend and podiatrist, Dr. Alap Shah, who prescribed a kidney-friendly medication to relieve me of the gout condition. He also recommended that I make contact with my regular family physician, Dr. Clark Gillett to manage the issue going forward. I think all doctors are taking a much-needed vacation here at the end of the year. ALL of my docs are out of the office today.
I’m a little bummed out that we now have gout to go along with all of my other health concerns on the table as we leave for New York to see Dr. Dutcher. I hope this won’t muddy the water for what we need to do going forward. But gout is caused by an elevation of uric acid in the blood. I figure uric acid must also have something to do with my kidney and I’m worried about it. So, I called my nephrologist to get him to weigh in on this.
By the way, my nephrologist, Dr. Raj Alappan, who was also not in his office today was supposed to be covered by Dr. Tamorie Smith. I talked to Linda at Dr. Alappan’s office three times today. Twice, when I called her to confirm that I would be getting a call by the end of the day today and once when she called me to confirm my date of birth and that I would be getting a call today. Dr. Tamorie Smith, whoever she is did not call me as promised. Thanks a lot, Dr. Tamorie Smith. No call, that’s all!
I think this is the first time since the diagnosis of my cancer that I have been left hanging with what I consider to be an important medical question. Other than Dr. Tamorie Smith, I have received prompt attention to my every medical situation.
Wow, I just realized what I said in the previous sentence. “My” cancer. Not “my” diagnosis of cancer, but “the” diagnosis of “my cancer.” Now that I think about this, I’ve heard most other people refer to their illness as “their” cancer. I can understand that feeling, because it literally takes over your life. In fact, it becomes your life. I will not give it that much power over me again. From this very second forward, I will refer to this damn disease as the life-robbing interloper that it is. It is not mine. I don’t want it. I will not lay claim to it again in this blog or in conversation, so help me God.
I have my Flipcam charged up. We’re ready to fly. On to the Big Apple with a great, hopeful attitude. And, thanks again, Dr. Tamorie Smith.
liza terry says
My love and prayers remain with you. You can beat this thing!! I read your many posts and your eloquence abounds even through the pain. Many blessings
Pat Bass says
Mike, you are awsome, your attitude, your endurance thru all the pain, fortitude, I feel blessed that you are sharing this part of your life with us. I keep you lifted up in my prayers, you too Jill, love you guys……Pat Bass & Crawford Smith
Cyndy says
How can a doc not understand how much their patients depend on them? How important a two-minute phone call can be? Mike Stewart reminded me today that med students are never taught about the soul or the spirit. It makes me sad.
We’ll be with you on your trip tomorrow, Mike. In spirit.
Wanda Farish says
Praying for a safe trip, positive news, and peace of mind for you and Jill!
Mary Choi says
Dear Mike,
Prayers for you and Jill for Friday’s trip and appointment. God Bless and I hope that Dr. Tamorie Smith learns a valuable lesson from your blog today.
(((Hugs)))
Mary Tilley Choi
Jenny Holder says
I will be thinking of you as you go to the big city, as I have for so many of your travels. While you were participating in the drum line in Asheville, I was thinking, “Oh, hell yes!” from Italy . And while you are in NY, I will be thinking, ” Oh, hell yes” from this lovely valley. Go and know we are with you all the way.
gayla says
As a medical professional and a friend, I am very sorry you did get a call back today. I’m sure she had a good reason, although I can not think of one at the moment…….If you need a private duty semi-retired RN to travel with you………
Sandy Lewack says
Mike/Jill,
GOUT!!! That’s just wrong! I wish you safe travels, send you much love and I will be praying for good news. May God be you.
Carol Ann says
My prayers continue for you AND Jill. Gout. Ouch. Hope you didn’t eat the bang bang shrimp!
I pray that it is not going to be a hump in the road or a roadblock to your desire for the miraculous medical treatment you are hoping for and needing.
We admire and adore you!!!
Carol Ann, David and Morgan
Teresa Bennett says
Mike, just got through reading “NO Call, That’s All” and when I got to the end I realized I had this great big grin, thinking……I’ll call that Dr. T and give her a piece of my mind for you! But that was only part of the reason for the big grin. As I continued to read I felt your tenasity,sense of humor and (I know this isn’t a word but…) your pissedoffedness shine on through. And then I clapped and said woo hoo, you go Mike. You gotta have spunk and I think you own all the stock in it. I love you and Jill and your family and just want all good to come again and again and again. Damn, you got me going! Sorry ’bout the darn cursing. Love, Teresa
Terry Fike says
So many people are praying for you, Mike. All day Friday, we will be thinking of you. Take care.
Patti Trotter says
A lot of love and prayers are going with you and Jill to New York, Mike. I’m praying that you will be guided in choosing the best treatment for you…and for complete healing.
Kim Rozycki says
You are awesome! Love the attitude! Have a safe trip and know you are still in my prayers!!
Alenna peak says
Good luck on Friday …hope news is what you are wanting to hear….i think your Dr.will probably get the message after your blog….sounds like you got lots of friends fired up ! Safe travels , good luck !
Cathy Alford says
Go forward with great thoughts and prayers from your friends! So often as I read your blogs, as a former health care professional, I think of how blessed you are to have the personal relationships you have with your doctors to receive such personal and timely responses. Unfortunately, and speaking generally, many don’t have that same experience. Waiting anxiously for returned calls seems endless if you are one many patients lost in the masses. For whatever reason, you – our warrior- had that experience with Dr T. And that makes me sad. I’m hoping you will carry the torch for the many who get lost on the other end of the telephone waiting with no “voice of the valley,” except you. You encourage so many by your words and courage.
Kevin French says
You go boy! Safe trip to the Big Apple & back. Way to take charge. Blessings…
Sarah Boutwell says
Mike,
Thomas and I so enjoyed our time with you, Jill and your boys on Christmas. It was a joy to photograph your family, get to know your sons a bit better and simply catch up with you both. It was good for my soul! Thank you for letting us “crash” your Christmas for a bit. π You guys have been in our prayers, and we will continue to pray for you…specifically that Dr. Dutcher has promising news!
Love, hugs and prayers,
Sarah (& Thomas too)
P.S. Please tell Jill the cheese straws were a huge hit with everyone…especially Fred! We loved that they had a little kick in them. We’re going to have to borrow her recipe! π
Tom Lenard says
Have a good flight Mike and I hope the meeting with Dr. Dutcher goes well…
Perhaps..someone could make a large poster sign..with duct tape on the back that could quickly installed on Dr. T’s car or office door…something like: “Ahhh, perhaps I misunderstood that you were going to call Me back!! Just saying..,.”
u know..something non destructive..but, at least makes a statement.
Bonita Cantrell says
Although it doesn’t seem like enough…You & your Wife have my prayers. Typing through tear filled eyes here….I’m sorry. I WILL be remembering you.
Sandy Gunnels says
Was out of town & just catching up with what’s going on with you! Praying for positive news in New York. Love ya. (PS If you need a nurse, I get to go before Gayla. I offered first & have known you longer!! LOL)
Liz says
I wonder what the kidney friendly medication was?
Our thoughts an prayers are with you from the UK
Debbie & David Harrell says
We are with you. Safe Travels.
Margie Ivey says
Many special thoughts and prayers will be with you and Jill.
John Trotter says
Mike, I hope that you and Jill have/had a good time in NYC. I have a good friend and colleague who battles with gout. I was reading in one of my health books about celery being great for gout. I mentioned it to him. He bought some celery capsules at The Vitamin Shoppe and says that celery helps. I thought that I would mention this for what it is worth. Hang tough, Big Guy! Praying for you!
Margie says
Hey, Mike, I know that cherry juice is good for gout. Don’t know if that would be a problem for Strainer, but might be helpful. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you head to the Big Apple.
Betsy Mazzola says
Prayers abound from Hatchechubbee, Mike… We love you and Jill….
Cathy Grant Childree says
I haven’t read the blog before. Just keeping up through Cherry Sleadd. Have a safe and successful trip. Praying that Dr. Smith has some new approach that works well. And I am with you on the gout – one more thing to deal with that you just didn’t need.
cindy & neal says
Mike & Jill ;
So sorry that you have gout. We know how painful it is and hope you get relief.
will be thinking of you tomorrow and praying for a safe trip.
you are in our prayers daily.
We love you.
Cindy & Neal.
Jacquie Thacker says
Mike and Jill, our prayers and thoughts are with you both, especially on Friday. I love your tenasity, humor and your take charge attitude. If you need anything once you get home just remember we are just down the road from you….we are here if you need us.
I’m thinking positive thoughts for your journey to New York….will stay in touch.
Prayers from Seale,
Larry and Jacquie
Dusty says
Judy and I are with you in spirit, guys. Godspeed, and hope to see you soon after you get home. –J&D
Debbie Seeley says
Safe travels to you both. Expecting you to bring back good news…..and I usually get what I want. Hugs and kisses!
Ruth Martin says
Good for you Mike! I cringe everytime I hear someone lay claim to any illness they may be battling. Never have I spoken any kind of ownership regarding Pearson’s condition – NEVER ONCE!!! Rejoice with us in the birth of Elizabeth’s 8th baby, Josiah Simeon Johnston on Christmas Eve. That’s eleven Grandchildren for me now and probably still counting. Sort of amazing, that is Jeff’s and Pearson’s birthdate as well. Busy month for us! Holding you close in my prayers and wrapping those prayers in expectation for a full recovery for your physical and emotional needs. May He bring healing to your 248 organs and 365 blood vessels (a Jewish prayer for those in need of healing)! Much love to you, Jill and the boys!!!
Jan Venable Davenport says
LOL !! Dr. Tamorie Smith has no idea what she’s in for !! π
Prayers for a safe flight for you and Jill and for getting some good answers and good video π
Love you !
Mark Venable says
Mike, your family here in Florida is praying for you. I’ll talk to you soon.
Kaye Land says
Mike, you and Jill are always in our prayers. I know you will have a very successful trip to New York! Please keep us updated about your visit! Jeff sends his love and we can’t wait to see y’all again around town!
Dianne Henry says
Mike and Jill,
Prayers and love from Johnny and me for a safe and rewarding trip tomorrow.
Praying that 2012 will be your year of triumph!!
Love and Peace,
Dianne
Stephanie Downs says
Praying for a safe trip and great news during your NYC visit today. Love you both-
Stephanie
gayla says
@ Sandy…..we can both go…..2 nurses are better than 1!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I could do some serious damage in th Big Apple….after Christmas sales and looking for fake designer bags on the corner……LOL!