Monday, July 31, 2006

Correction from Sunday night:

Overall winner from the golf outing was Scott Lee. (Middle name Adam?) :)

Food Report:

Morning - had gluten free cereal and rice milk, fruit, and shake
Lunch - 2 turkey sandwiches and fruit, water
Dinner - typical after chemo meal from Wendy's (Frescata sandwich, blueberry shake from DQ, chicken strips)

After the first chemo, I stopped at Wendy's for food. Since I did not get sick, this is a tradition. I will do the same after every chemo.

I had chemo again today. So far, just a little tired. I am going to do a meeting for FIG tomorrow, and I hope we will have 100 people there. I hope I am not too tired. Chemo went fine. The doctors and staff at Duke are so helpful. I would also like everyone to pray for something that I have not talked about. Basically the chemo is working as of now. Everyone knows that at some point, the cancer will learn to fight the chemo. Once that happens, it will be up to the Tarceva. I will take that alone. I want you to pray that the Tarceva works to manage this like a chronic disease. I feel that if I can hold on 5 years, they will have some pretty amazing stuff out there to keep it a manageable disease. Don't forget Mike D., Suzi, and others.... There are a lot of people that need prayers.

Sorry this is short, but I am tired.

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Here is the food report:

Morning - 3 poached eggs, shake
Lunch - turkey sandwich, rice chips
Dinner - 3 bowls of cereal, fresh fruit

Today was a good day, even though it was a disaster on the golf course. I told on Brian Williams so HE MADE SURE I put this on the blog:

Shawn "Quan" Lee beat me today in golf. We did not play in the same group, but he beat me. I will sum it up this way - I had 6 pars, a 11, 10, 2 quads, and so on.... UGLY.

We came home from the beach today. Addi was such a good baby on the way back. She did so well and only got fussy about 5 minutes from home. She "read" books, watch DVDs, etc. I have to say my wife is the greatest. She packed the car while I was playing golf. It was a great day.

To Brian Williams team - We won by triple digits!!!!!

I will be gone tomorrow getting chemo at Duke. If I do not write tomorrow, please understand that chemo and the pre-meds make me loopy!

See you soon!

Saturday, July 29, 2006

Still at the beach! Second round ok, still in 4th place. Scott Lee is catching Lee Bradley, and Shawn Lee is in third...

Went to dinner tonight with Lee, Scott, and Justin. Addi and Christi were with me of course. We went to a fun seafood deal, and Lee and Justin ate enough crab legs to make most people sick. My appetite is still good even though I do not talk about it any more. I thought people were getting bored of it, but several people have given me a hard time about it, so I will start letting people know again.

Morning: 4 poached eggs, shake, 16 oz of water
Lunch: baked red snapper, salad, squash and zucchini, water
Dinner: grilled salmon, salad, strawberries

All in all a good day, man am I tired from playing golf when it is 99 degrees outside!

Friday, July 28, 2006

Today was the first day of the outing. There are three rounds for team and individual. We played at Indigo Run or something like that. Everyone had a late night, and it was at least 95 degrees and 100% humidity. I played very well except for 4 holes. I shot a 95 and feel like I should have shot an 85. My group had Lee Bradley, Zach, and Eric. Lee shot a 73 and took the lead for the tournament. I am 16 stokes back, but in 4th. Shawn Lee did not come in last, as he took down Brian by 1 stroke. We do everything by handicap, so Shawn is 3rd and two strokes ahead of me. In the team competetion, my team is up 90 strokes after day one. My team is Lee, Justin, Shawn, me, and Scott Lee. Blowing them out. We gave them the option of starting over but they said no, they would try to come back.

After golf, everyone just basically recovered. Then we all went to Cheeseburgers in Paradise. After that, Addi, Christi, and I went back and everyone else played lazer tag.

Today's blog is dedicated to Eric Thomes for taking time away from his wife (she is awesome!) and three kids to come and see me.

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Today Addi, Christi, and I embarked to Myrtle Beach for Guy's Golf Weekend. It will be hard for me to update the blog, but I will try. The ride down started at 10:00 am, and Addi was just about ready for a nap. She did so well to be so young, and it took about 4.5 hours. We had lunch with Lee Bradley a little after Columbia, SC. We finished out the drive and arrived in Myrtle Beach. We got settled in and got a huge surprise. Eric Thomes came down to attend the first round. He has been here the last two years, and I thought he was not going to be able to change this year. It was a big surprise for sure. Basically, we got settled in, and it was to bed for the golf outing the next day.

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Before I start telling you about my day, I wanted to say thanks to everyone that has posted something to the blog. It has really made me feel good to read every comment.

Today is the last day of the week for me. I will be headed to the beach tomorrow for the annual guy's golf weekend. Although this year there is a twist: Addi and Christi are going with me. (I really doubt that no matter how long I live, there will not be too many times they will not accompany me somewhere!)

Work went well. I was supposed to be off, but there were two meetings I needed to attend. After that I got my head shaved again. My hair grows some places, and some places no way. The barber did it with a straight razor so my head really is smooth as a babies butt so to speak. Christi and I basically packed for the rest of the night except when Walker and Candace were over.

Amy Lee brought us diner tonight. We had spaghetti and turkey meat sauce, veggies, and rice milk. She did a good job, and I will have to dedicate the blog to her tonight!

Please do not forget to pray for Chip's mom, Suzi, Mike D., Chuck, and me. We all need them to keep coming.

I also want to send a shout out to the prayer warriors in Des Moines, IA. They have been great and have a great mommy. I think when children pray God hears them better. I know that many people have their kids praying for me. Dennis, Neal and Trey, and several others. Thanks.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Today was the best day yet. I went to Duke today to do scans and see how I was doing overall. I was supposed to do chemo, but we will get into that a little later. I had a CT scan done at 7:15 am. Well, I had to be there at 7:15 am but the scan was done at 8:00 am. We went up the night before and I stayed with my buddy Brian. Christi, Bill, and Mom came up as well. We went to Squid's that night for dinner and it was good. Scott W. gave us that suggestions, and made mention of the hushpuppies. I could not eat them, although the consensus of the table was Big Daddy's hushpuppies were better. I will be taking Scott and Katie to Big Daddy's soon so they can see what they think.

Any way, I saw Dr. Crawford later that morning and he came in to discuss the scans. He checked me over first, and then went over the scans. I still have zero symptoms except for the cough, which has decreased a lot, about 75% less. He basically used this to let me know how it was going:

When he first saw me, my lungs looked like there was a snowstorm going on inside. Now he said it looked like flurries. Needless to say, that means that the treatment is working and the cancer is reducing. They did not give me a percentage per say, but it is for sure decreasing. I think this will make me double my efforts to keep doing the things I am doing. I am sure that the treatment Duke is giving me is responsible for a lot of the change, but I am also sure that prayers from everyone including me, eating right, taking the supplements I am taking, and exercising are a key as well. (Golf too, but do not tell Christi!)

Now, about the chemo - I could not do my regular chemo today because my mature white blood cell count is low. The baby white blood cell count is SUPER high, so there is not a problem. Basically three weeks would have been Thursday of this week, so I technically went in a little early. I am going to go back on Monday for chemo.

I was really happy today to see that all of OUR hard work is paying off. I said our hard work meaning you! If you are reading this for the first time or you have read it every day, the prayer from before and in the future really count. I appreciate all of the emails, cards, letters, crazy treatments, etc. that everyone sends me. The support has really helped my attitude as well.

A little update on Mike D - He had his appointment as well today. The doctors at Duke told him that he should stay at UNC for treatment, and that the treatment he would receive there would be great. I think this made Mike feel really good and confident in the doctors at UNC. I also feel really confident in my doctors at Duke, this shows they do the right thing. I met Mike's wife Angie as well and she was very sweet. We are going to keep in touch through this ordeal and be support for each other.

Again - Thanks to you, God, my doctors, my friends, my family, my wife, and Addi for all that you have done for me. Looks like I am going to be sticking around for awhile!

Monday, July 24, 2006

Monday was a great day. Jay and I went on a ride this morning. When I got back, Christi fixed me some eggs, and I also had a shake. Work was really good, and we have some big meetings coming up.

I went to the holistic doctor today. She worked on my body, concentrating on my back and neck. She did a really good job.

I left work early today to head to Duke. I am staying with my buddy Brian since we have to be there at 7:15 am. Tomorrow is a big day. It is when I do scans so the doctors can see my progress for the first time. Basically they can say 4 things:

1. Cancer is growing more BAD
2. Cancer is the same OK
3. Cancer has shrunk GOOD
4. Cancer is gone SUPER

Basically, I have a 75% chance to hear some good news. I most likely will not hear 1 or 4, somewhere in between. I might have trouble updating tomorrow night, but I will try my best....

See you soon....

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Sunday started with some cartoons for me and Addi. Christi, Addi, and I then went to church. After that, Christi and Addi went to a shower for Caroline, and I went to play golf. There was a little rain here so I only got to hit some balls and play nine holes. I played with Phil, and he shot a 38 on the front nine of the Peninsula. Pretty darn good.

I came back and helped Joel change a tire. Then went to dinner with some people down from Detroit. Basically, a calm Sunday.

This is a big week for me. I leave tomorrow for Duke at 4:00 pm. I have scans and such at 7:15 am on Tuesday so we are going to spend the night. I will learn a lot about how my treatment is going on Tuesday. I do believe in my doctors at Duke, but trust me, I know who is steering this thing. I hope that we get good news.

See you soon....

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Bill, Jo (mom), Christi and I went to Boone, NC to look at a piece of property today. It is a Ginn property that they are developing in Boone. It was super nice. Basically, the skinny is this:

6300 acres for 1500 homesites. Average lot size is a little over 2 acres. They have given 45% of the land into a land trust so no one can build on it. It was super beautiful....

It was also nice to see Chad S, Rob G, and Banks H. These guys work up there, and they are fraternity brothers of mine. It was good seeing them...

We were going to stay the night up there, but some things got screwed up so we came back down to Charlotte. Before we left, we ate at The Blowing Rock Cafe. I had halibut, and it was really good. If ever in Blowing Rock, this is a place to go....

Friday, July 21, 2006

Today was a regular work day. It was pretty busy. I meet Mike D.; the guy I wrote about earlier that has lung cancer as well. He came by my office, and we chatted some in the afternoon. I think he is where I was a little bit ago: really ready and "fighting" mad. He is a great guy, and I think he may even have a better attitude than I do. He has a step daughter and son, and they are both 11. He has a lot to live for. He will be at Duke on Tuesday as well for his first visit. He has already visited UNC. I am hoping he goes to Duke. Not only because they are a top 10 hospital, but because of the way they have treated me.

I also found out that Chip's mom got out of surgery ok. Chip works with me, and they had found out that his mom had a tumor near her brain. She made it through the surgery fine, in fact they finished two hours early!

All in all, a good day. Tomorrow we are headed to Boone to look at a piece of property. I am going to go, with Bill and mom. It should be a fun day.

I did ride my bike today. Sometimes I forget to say anything about it, but I am riding at least 5 days per week.

Thursday, July 20, 2006

One day until the weekend! Today I started with a good breakfast of eggs and a shake. We are getting better at the shakes....

Work was really good. Dave had a lady come in who was very nice. We had lunch together and talked business, which if you know me makes me very happy. I have a stressful job in some ways, but I love it. Talked with Jeanne T. from Equitrust today. What a sweet lady as well. We have our battles business wise, but we have always been cool with each other. She was telling me about the fishing trip to Canada and how my replacement on that trip, Mike, did so well. Mike is my future brother in law.

The question of the day is should I like him? He is marrying my BABY sister who I used to basically take EVERYWHERE with me. Is there not a law requiring my to dislike him? Seriously, I do like him as much as a big brother can.....

Christi, Addi, and I went over to Rachel and Justin's house for dinner. Rachel fixed a great meal and it was very tasty. She was very nice to do this. A funny story that pertains to Rachel and other cooks. My mom gave me a hard time because the other night she fixed dinner and I reported it on the blog. I then said that I went home and ate some other stuff because I was starving. She thinks this made her look like she did not feed me. Rachel and I talked about it and she was worried about the same thing. It is not these people's fault. I am always HUNGRY. Last night, Rachel fixed a great meal and there was plenty. I did clean my plate. However, when I got home, I ate two eggs and 2 pieces of turkey bacon, a plate full of pasta (gluten free!) and sauce with ground turkey, yogurt covered raisins, and a glass of rice milk. Then I rode my bike 10 miles. I am just strange now. My mom and Rachel both feed me fine. I just thought I would clear that up for anyone who was worried about it.

I think I will dedicate today to Rachel and Justin. Not only have they cooked for me which is a huge star in my book, but they have also been supportive. Rachel has been there for Christi, and Justin got me into Duke fast from a friend if you remember. It has been a crazy time, but you do really find out who you can lean on. Thanks!

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Today I was able to do a good turn for someone else that is in my shoes so to speak. I talked to Dr. Blackwell and helped Mike get into Duke fast. This was exactly want Adam did for me. I am excited.

I had some great cereal this morning with rice milk. It has been a real challenge to find a good cereal to have in a crunch so to speak. Candace found some things that are really good. One is chocolate chip cookies. Another is rice cakes with cashew butter, and the last is this cereal. Very good.

Work was good. Had lunch with Christi and Addi and Candace. Had turkey burger plain, green beans, and brown rice.

After work Christi and I tried to hit golf balls. We hit about 15 apiece and then a storm came up so we went home.

Went to the store, and that is about it today. This weekend I am going to Boone to look at a piece of property, so Christi and I are going to leave Addi for the night. So sad! Bill and my mom are going to so it will be fun to hang out with them. I am really looking forward to it.

My buddy Eric Thomes asked me to go to Pebble Beach for a few days, but I had to say no. It is after a chemo treatment and he had only a few spots open. I am always afraid that I will be sick or something, and I did not want to take anything away from anyone else. For business I have given up: fishing in Alaska, fishing in Canada, Ryder Cup in Ireland, Pebble Beach, and maybe Hawaii!!!! I am mad at CANCER!!!!

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

Tuesday was really busy at the office. I did catch up with Mike, Brian's dad's friend who just found out about having lung cancer. I will say this, that guy is going to give cancer a heck of a fight. I thought I was going to have to pump him up, heck, he pumped me up. He went to UNC today to meet with his doctors, so everyone please say a little prayer for him. I hope that his outlook is very positive. Surgery would be best....

I meet with my alternative doctor yesterday and did not say anything about her. She is really nice and she is concentrating on my immune systems and inner self. (Go ahead, insert joke here...) Seriously, I think she is a big help. She has really been giving me good tips about eating. In my opinion, I am going to take every avenue I can, no matter what people say.

I also started back in my masters class again. The dean of the masters program is very nice and is allowing me to make up what I missed (basically one class) by turning in the "opportunity for learning" (test) late. I will be done with my Masters in April of 2007. I am getting a MSM(l) which is a masters in the science of management with an emphasis in leadership. I am very excited to keep this going. It is a big challenge, but I can handle it.

I am excited about the chemo on the 25th, but I am a little afraid of being tired after that. On the 27th, Christi, Addi, and I leave for the 5 Bs Classic in Myrtle Beach. I am very impressed with my friends, this is a guys only weekend and they are working with Addi and Christi coming. Very nice. For 10 years now, me and several of my college buddies have gone to the beach for a golf trip. Ok, let's be honest, it started out with no golf included. However, as we have gotten older, it has become more about golf. We even have a silver cup (engraved with the winner's name) that is past around, and a pink blazer that you have to wear out on Saturday night. It is loads of fun. I of course, am O for the golf outing. I guess we will have to make this the year. If I can win, I can hear it now - "It was the performance enhancing chemo that helped you! :)

Last but not least, I am dedicating this blog post to Terry Morgan, Christi's uncle from Kansas. This guy has spent HOURS on the internet researching cancer. He has mailed me at least 100 pages printed material, as well as some good "meal" bars that I can eat. I did tell him on the phone tonight that I appreciated him doing this, but I wanted everyone to know what a great help he has been. Thank you Terry!

Monday, July 17, 2006

Monday was a regular day. I did get a call over the weekend from my buddy Brian. He dad has a friend that just discovered he had lung cancer. He is 40ish. I was sad to hear that. Even though I am fine and feel great, it really is an emotional roller coaster at times. Someone will say "in 20 years I am going to do X" and I think to myself that I will be dead! Wow, not normal. Then I basically say NO, that is not going to happen to me.

I know that sounds like a silly conversation, but we all take life for granted. I know that I could be dead in 6 months, and even though that scares me, I am still pumped to have even that much time here. Remember though, I promised Addi I would at least walk her to her first day of real school. I intend to keep that promise.....

See ya!

Sunday, July 16, 2006

Sunday started with me and Addi watching cartoons. We did not go to church this morning, we were both tired from a long day in Hendersonville. We got up and had breakfast as a family. Walker came over at 11:45 and we went to hit golf balls before a 1:00 pm tee time. We played golf with Duncan and Eric. Everyone did well. It was really hot. (44-47 for me)

I got to my mom and Bill's about 6:30 for dinner. We had brown rice, pepper and onions, tuna steaks, and broccoli slaw for dinner. It was great. When I got home, I was still hungry, so I had two bowls of cereal with rice milk, and two pieces of bread with almond butter and honey. The cereal and bread were gluten free. This is going to take a long time to get used to!

Off to bed. Have a long week ahead of us!

Again, thanks for all of the comments. I will try my best to get back to all of you some day soon!

Saturday, July 15, 2006

Today I rode my bike to my old house and back, about 14 miles. We did sleep in a little so I got a late start. Addi and Christi had breakfast ready for me when I came back, eggs and turkey bacon. I am not really supposed to eat anything that has nitrate as an ending to any word in the ingredient's, but heck, it is a little treat for me. Mike and Caroline came over. (Mike is the fiance, Caroline is the little sister) We are all going back to my hometown today for my grandpa's 90th birthday party. I will tell you guys that I could write a 600 page novel on my grandpa. He is really a great man and so many people love him. The grandkids all got him this picture of us, but we wrote things on the matting around the picture. I wrote that I am hoping to be 1/2 the man he is, and I really mean that. He is truly a great person. On the way up, we stopped by Lee Bradley's house. He is my best buddy from Hendersonville. He and Tina just bought a house out in the country in Columbus, NC. Addi really liked seeing the chickens and turkey. I am not sure if she really knew what they were, but she like it. Lee's house is really neat, and it is peaceful out there.

We then went to my grandpa's house. I saw my dad, Uncle Mutt, Papa, Aunt Mary, Uncle Jeff, Jordan, Lindsey, and Merritt. (Where there is Merritt, there is also Drew) They were all help getting helping to get ready for the party. Aunt Mary and Uncle Jeff had never seen Addi so that was nice. About 6:00, we all got ready to go the The Mustang Cafe which is where the party was. All of my family was there, too many to name. Everyone was really nice, this is the first time they have seen me since the new hairdo and news of cancer. It was strange, some looked at me like I was dead and they felt for me, some really had that positive attitude. If you ever run into someone with cancer, especially one that has no cure, it is most likely best to be a little over neutral. I guess what I am saying is that I know the odds, yet I chose to be very positive. I would prefer that people did not look at me like I am dead, yet also be respectful enough not to plan the next 20 years. I also know it is very tough on the person, because most people do not have a clue what to say. Awkward!

Stu and Misty came out to the party and I had not see Stu in years. It was good to catch up. We left about 8:30 pm, and headed home. All in all, it was a good day seeing my grandpa get some recognition, something he is shy about. Funny side note: When he found out about me, him and my dad came down to see me. He asked me he could give me a lung. He said he had lived a good life he could give me a lung and it meant him dying, he was ok with that. He deserves everything he got today and so much more, so I am dedicating today on my blog to him. He is a great man and I hope everyone that reads this prays for him daily.

Friday, July 14, 2006

Well, tonight is my night I guess... this is Christi

I thought is was probably about time that I said a few words, for those that know me you are probably surprised I kept my mouth shut this long. I just didn't want to intrude on Bo's personal thoughts, much less he has such a strong fan base, I didn't want to upset the masses. :)

I want to THANK everyone that has sent cards, posts on the blog, information, recipes, watched our daughter, listened to me or Bo, offered to shave their head for Bo, everything else and most importantly prayers. Bo and I never doubt that we surround ourselves with great people, but everyone has truly risen to the occasion. There isn't a moment that I don't feel someone's prayer carrying us through. Who would have known has easy it is to miss home in Kansas and feel at home in North Carolina. Also for those that know me and those that don't, I am a reformed tomboy (sort of), that these Southern Women truly know how to love and be the backbone for others. A Word to the Wise, don't mess with a Southern Woman.

About my husband, Bo. There is no greater motivator than the fear of losing someone that is your husband, father of your child, provider, mentor, (boss - aka co-worker), supporter and best friend. The one person that balances you out when no one else seems to understand you. If ever there is a moment when I want to falter I know that is not an option. I am not saying I don't falter, but I am always trying my best. I must follow the excellence and standard that Bo has set for himself. I like to think of myself as a bright woman, I did marry him, but never could I expect a man to rise to the occasion like Bo is with his leadership, positive spirit and kick-butt attitude. Enough with the sappy stuff, I love him, enough said.

My final words of course pertain to our daughter, the one that is truly carrying us through this. Addi is 9 months old as of yesterday and has been walking aka wobbling (5-6 steps) now. She has this way to smirk like no one else, it just lets me know we are in so much trouble later. And ladies watch out, she can flirt with the best of them...I have yet to see a man (even the most petrified of children) falter to her scrunched up nose and batting eyelashes. I once heard that children are your way of wearing your hearts on the outside of your body...that is your heart, hopes, dreams and future. She has been amazing through all of this.

I am not sure if you will hear from me again anytime soon, but again THANK you everyone for thinking of my immediate family, I like to think that everyone reading this is our extended family whether we have met or not. Please know that you all are welcome in our house at anytime, but not at the same time. (I do have a daughter and 3 dogs) I might even cook for you ,but a warning Bo really pumps me up on that one, it isn't that good.

Love

Christi

PS In case Bo doesn't get on tonight and mention what he ate I do want to thank Jim Surane and Kimberly Thaxton for going out to dinner with us tonight. We had a great time and during this difficult time it is wonderful to make friendships stronger. I also wanted to Thank Dr. Thomas for checking in on Bo and just caring. For those that don't remember, Dr. Thomas is Bo's primary doctor that certainly doesn't have to take the time out to check on Bo, but it does show his character as a person. For anyone afraid of Doctors, there are still a few good ones out there and we have been blessed to meet them during this time.

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Today is a busy day. I hope that everyone is doing well. Rode hard this morning and played with Addi some. I also want to say I read every comment everyone puts on this blog. There is not an easy was for me to respond, so just know I appreciate it.

John came down to see me today from MI. He has been a friend of mine for 10 years I guess. The thing I like best is that he tells it like it is, so of course he made fun of me and my new "haircut" and anything else he could find. Just like every other time I see him.

We went to dinner with Bill and Mom, Christi and Addi, and Walker and Candace. It was good food and I had grouper, steamed veggies, salad, and potatos.

I am in great spirits and super excited about seeing my dad and grandpa this weekend. He is 90!

Sorry so short, got to get to bed tonight.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

Addi was crazy this morning. She is really a darling little girl. I had a lot of fun with her this morning before I went to work. Had some eggs and a shake this morning. I am eating a little less now, not feeling bad, but less hungry. Went to work, and again, everyone there is doing such a good job. Had lunch at home, then back to work. I came home tonight and played with Addi. I will also say that everything is sort of taking it's toll on me and Christi. I think we are both stressed out. It was really nice for Kelly Stamey to bring dinner over tonight. It helped Christi a lot. She has been working really hard trying to keep up with Addi, keep up with her normal stuff, keep up with my nutrition, and keep up with cancer news. I am really proud of her for the way she is handling this, but I think it has taken a major toll on her. It is hard to hear some of the things that she has had to hear, and scary. To have a 9 month old baby (as of today!) and have to accept what could happen to your husband, wow, a lot to handle. So I think I am going to dedicate the blog to her today, just to say thanks.

By the way, I read some survivor stories on Lance Armstrong's website tonight. It was depressing about lung cancer. Everyone seems to have such a dismal outlook except me. I want everyone to know that there has to be a first survivor, right? Who was the first person that made it through other things in history. Could we see history in the making? Maybe, and I would stay tuned!

I will try to do better by giving you the food information. It is very hard to eat a wide variety of food and keep it interesting. I will try to do better.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Hope all is well with everyone. I want you to know I am supposed to be in Canada fishing right now, so I am a little upset! Just kidding sort of. One thing about this cancer BS that is BS, it does rob you of things that people take for granted. Vacation for one. It is hard for me to go any where right now for two reasons: 1. chemo, 2. When the docs say you are dying, whether you believe it or not, you just want to be around your family.

I hope my future (maybe) brother in law Mike is having fun in my place at the fishing trip....

I woke up today and met Jay for bike ride. We went 10 miles and had a nice chat. I am a little slower on the hills after the 2nd chemo, but all in all good. I had eggs, a banana, and Irish oats for breakfast. Breakfast is really hard to have a variety of stuff. There is just not that much stuff to eat for breakfast. Went to work and had a really good day. Came home for lunch and had a salad with fish on it. I also had a shake. Went back and was busy all day long. Tonight I had free range chicken, a squash dish, and wild rice. I do not remember if I mentioned it yesterday, but I did shave my head. Addi liked it, Christi was ok with it.

I will list some of the things I have learned I can have. Remember, this is my opinion based on research and what several nutritionist and doctors have said. I also am going extreme. However, do your own research:

Extra virgin coconut oil is good
No bread unless gluten free (gluten is in wheat, oat, barley, and rye)
no dairy, no cheese
Almond butter is good
No pasta
Rice milk is good, soy is ok, but rice milk is better
No canned fruit
Raw veggies are good, anything like a plant
Alvacodo is good
Raw and unsalted nuts are good
Honey is a good sweetener, NO sugar, especially refined)
Juices need to be fresh squeezed, other have too much sugar
Deep water fish (salmon, halibut, atlantic cod)
Beans (lima, navy, pinto, etc)
No processed foods, no lunch meat
little salt and pepper fine
Free range Chicken good
Turkey good
Steak is bad, takes a long time to digest

Rule of thumb - total sugar should be less the 1/2 of total card, or you know there is a lot of sugar in the product

Monday, July 10, 2006

I will have to admit, today was a little harder. I woke up and was SO tired today. I did not go into work on time and I did not ride my bike. Christi made me an appointment with Dr. Martin, a hololistic doctor. She does everything from being a chiropractor to doing acupuncture. She is very nice and I will continue to go to her. She is going to be worried about how I am doing as far as mental health, nutrition, and my immune system. I had an appointment with her at 10:00 am, then I went to lunch at home, then went to the office. We had two huge agents in and we are trying to recruit them. Had great conversations with them and I hope we can work with them. I actually think they have integrity.

After work I went and shaved my head. It was coming out any way so I thought I would just get it over with. Addi really likes it I think, and Christi thinks it is ok. I am not really to vain about how I look, but I will say that I am bother a little by my appearance. I could not shave my head completely, like with a razor, because of the bumps on my head. These bumps are also on my face and basically I look like I am just going into the 8th grade. It is really funny to see me. My "acne" is caused by the Tarceva I am taking daily. Again, it does bother me a little, but that is normal I guess.

I can home and had dinner with Christi and Addi. We had steamed carrots, asparagus, salad, and soup. It was healthy and good.

Bill and Mom came by the see my haircut and Mom was ok with it, so that made me feel better as well. I did not ride tonight as well. Jay is coming by in the morning so I decided to wait for Tuesday. I will ride Tuesday, Wed, Thurs, and Friday of this week. My grandpa's 90th birthday is on Saturday, well, the party is. I am excited for him and I can't wait to see my Dad and everyone in Hendersonville.

Thanks for reading..... If you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. I will answer it on the blog....

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Today Addi, Christi, and I went to church. Before church I ate some blueberries and Irish oatmeal. After church, we went to go look at Caroline and Mike's new house. They had not started it yet. I had lunch of corn on the cob with chicken. We came back and hung out until 12:00 when Walker came by and we went to hit some golf balls. We came back and watched the world cup with Christi and Walker's wife Candace. It was a good game. Christi and I went to mom's for dinner. I started riding at 4:50 and rode until 5:30 and met Christi at mom and Bill's house. We had red fish, salad, rice, and steamed veggies.

I have to admit, I am tried tonight so I am going to take a shower and go to bed. I have a full work week coming up.....

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Saturday went well. I rode my bike today at 6:30 am. It was a nice morning and I went about 8 miles. I then played golf with Daniel, Jody, and David at my club at 9:20 am. We had a good time and I did not lose too much money. I shot a 95, but in all honesty, thank goodness it is coming back down. May 14th I shot an 84 so it has been up hill every round since. Addi and Christi went with Candace to the Farmer's Market while I was golfing and then went to Bill and Mom's. Mom was gone with Caroline shopping of course. Caroline is getting married in September. This is when I know I am getting somewhat old. Caroline getting married....

We all met for lunch at the yacht club and it was really good. Christi and I went home with Addi for her to take a nap and we took one ourselves. Then we did some errands, Target, etc. Christi fixed chicken, asparagus, and corn for dinner. All of it was fresh from today at the farmers market. Tonight we will watch a movie or something.

Terry Morgan, Christi's uncle, has been sending me all of this research and everything. It has been overwhelming as far as the help people have been trying to give me. I appreciate it so much. I know I can not mention everyone, but I appreciate it all.

Friday, July 07, 2006

Friday was a ok day. Got up and went to work, but did not bike ride. I was still a little tired from the extra meds. I had oatmeal and a shake for breakfast. I also had a banana as well. Work was good, and I was busy. I got caught up from missing Thursday and had several conference calls. Lunch was a turkey sandwich and fruit. I am drinking this Xango stuff and I have to drink a bottle every day for 21 straight days. It is ok tasting, but hard to do EVERYDAY. Afternoon went well, and Christi and I had dinner with Addi. Salmon and squash was dinner, of course very good. Tracia came over to watch Addi and Christi and I went to see the Pirates of the Caribbean. It was pretty good. Got home and was tired, so I am going to bed.

Interesting note if I have not said so before - hair is starting to come out. I have kind of expected that since the first chemo, but when it happens, it bothers you a little. I am on board, let me make that clear. If I have to never have hair again to live, so be it. However, the feelings you have seeing yourself change is weird. I have gotten what looks like acne from the Tarceva, and I also had (not now) a rash. Looking in the mirror and seeing your face, but not like it was is a little scary. Now it is a little funny, as I am thinning out on top. I can pull hair out by the clumps. Every morning when I get up, there is a little more on the pillow. Again, no worries, just weird.

Thursday, July 06, 2006

Went to Duke today for Round 2 with chemo. Had to leave at 6:00 am to get up there in time. I had eggs for breakfast and a shake. We got on the rode and headed to Duke. When we got there, I did a consultation and blood work. I gained 2 pounds and my blood work was FANTASTIC. After a couple of questions to the doctors, I headed up for chemo. I got in and they hooked me up. I took the meds fine but had a slight reaction to the Taxol this time. Basically, I could not breathe or talk, and I felt hot from my stomach to my head. The nurse came over and stopped the flow of the Taxol, and then had to increase my meds for awhile and let me hangout for thirty minutes or so. Then I started again without any problem. It scared Christi more than anything. Took Taxol for 3 hours and 30 minutes, then carboplatin (sp?) for 30. Had some lunch during chemo, and we stopped at Wendy's for a bit of a treat after chemo. I just ate 4 eggs before I decided to type this post. I would say all in all a good day. As i type this, I feel great.

The doctors were pretty pumped about how I am reacting to the meds. My cough is 70% gone and the side effects are minimal. I am very thrilled that I can say I am doing everything I can, the doctors are doing everything they can, and I think all of you that read this plus many more that don't are doing everything they can. So now we just hope God is on our side as far as what we want, which is cancer free Bo. We will see.

I will type this for you or anyone else to understand. I know the realities out there but I am not giving in to them. I may be dead in a year, but it will not be because I gave up. I am going to fight this thing and try to get better. I am drinking juices that would only be good with vodka! (I don't, trust me) Anyone out there with a problem they think is too big, just tell them about me and that I might die of lung cancer, but lung cancer is going to have to deal with me!

I am sorry, I am not trying to be the Tony Robbins of cancer, but I just want to make sure you know how I feel about it. I mean it. Spread the word and donate to cancer research soon. Christi and I are going to do a n-profit foundation for cancer soon, hopefully called Addi's Cure. I will let you guys know, and don't worry, I will not hit anyone up for money. I will tell you about the things we will be doing......

Thanks for reading....

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

Back to work again! I got up this morning and rode my bike. I did about 10 miles this morning. Came back to eat breakfast, and had eggs and toast with a shake which I forgot. Went to work starving. Tim Otto came into town today. He is my competitor, but we have always had a good relationship. He came in just to spend the day with me. We talked business until 11:00 am, then went to lunch and hit the golf course. Lunch was a salad with grilled chicken. Both of us hit some good shots and bad, but we had a good time. We came back to my house. We both got cleaned up. Tim was flying back out tonight. It was a long day for him, leaving Detroit early this morning only to fly back tonight. I hope he had fun. We went to dinner and I had halibut and fresh green beans. Very good.

I spent a lot of time with Addi tonight before she went to bed. What a doll. She will be walking SOON!

Off to chemo tomorrow. Wish me LUCK!

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

4th of July was really awesome day. I did ride this morning and it was really nice and cool. Had a little turkey bacon and poached egg action for breakfast. Brian, Matt, Shawn and I had an 8:00 am tee time at Birkdale. It was hot! I shot a 43 on the front, and then lets just say I got heat stroke or something. Man, I STUNK it up on the back nine.

We ate at jason's Deli for lunch and I had a wrap. It was basically the only thing I saw that i could eat. It was really good. Brian had some 'Fo Free' ice cream (you had to be there) and we took off. I did take a little nap, but so did everyone else. We then took my boat to Bill and Mom's for the 4th of July party. A lot of peopel were there, and it was fun in the sun. We had grilled free range chicken and any fixins you could want. We went swining, etc. We then watched the fireworks from the dock.

Had an awesome time with Brian and Jennifer the last couple of days. They are leaving tomorrow to go back to Durham. Thanks for reading...

Monday, July 03, 2006

Having Monday off was fantastic. I went to play golf today with Bob, Phil, and Walker. We played at the club. It was hot but fun. Bob and I lost the match, and I shot another 98. I am officially terrible. Hit very good shots, just did not score at all. After golf, I went home and my buddy Brian came into town with his girlfriend Jennifer. They are sticking around with us until after the fireworks on Tuesday night. We went to Bill and mom's for some swimming. Addi was so cute in the pool. There is a waterfall type deal and Addi loves to splash in it. We came back and showered, then went to dinner. Afterwards, we just came back home.

I have to let you know how good Christi has been to me. This morning is an example. I woke up early to ride my bike and while I was gone, she fixed me breakfast so I could go and hit golf balls early. She has really been great. For breakfast, I had turkey bacon, poached eggs, and a smoothie. For lunch, I had a bunch of fruit, then dinner I had 6 oz filet and lobster with carrots. I did drink a lot of mango juice today.

As far as how I feel: I rode 10 miles today, then played 18 holes of golf in 95 plus degree weather, then went swimming, then out to eat. I feel fine and I am happy to say thanks to god for this, as well as Duke and all the people praying for me.

Thanks for reading!

Sunday, July 02, 2006

Today Christi, Addi, and I went to church. Then we came back and hung out. My mom came to watch Addi and Christi and I went to the movies with Walker and Candace. We saw the new Superman and we all thought it was good.

Update on side effects. Rash is basically gone. Still have a little numbness at the tips of my fingers. Tarceva is still affecting my complection a little on my face, and also on my scalp. Christi says it just lloks like I am sun burnt..... Other than that, good to go.

Ate very well today. Breakfast as usual, turkey blts for lunch, and pasta with chicken cubes and tomato sauce. Every meal with soy milk. I will tell you, it is very hard to eat healthy. Time as well as cost, and that is just eating at home.

I also wanted to let everyone know that Addi was walking today behind a push toy. She is such a big girl now. I love that little girl.

Also ase pray for my friend Chip's mom. She has a brain tumor and has surgery on 7/21. She needs a lot of prayers. Also Amy's mom who is in the hospital. They thought she may have cancer, but she does not. Keep those tow in mind, plus Suzi from Friday.

I am playing golf tomorrow so think positive for me tomorrow so I do not have to give Phil any money!

Saturday, July 01, 2006

Today I woke up and played golf with Phi, Randy, and Walker. I did not play well, but that was my fault. I shot a 98 and took one on the chin. We then had lunch at the club and watched soccer for a while. I can back and Addi was asleep. Christi and I chattted as she bulit (you know me and tools!) a sandbox for Addi. My mom and Bill got it for her. Then we had dinner, which was free range chicken, salad, corn, and steamed brocolli Good stuff.

We then went to a place called BirkdaleVillage which is like an outdoor mall type place. We walkedAddi around and ran into Donna and Mike. We had a good time.