6 hours left

Good day! Dave's hemoglobin is staying right at 9.3, WBCs are up "a little" and platelets are up to 123,00! No more Neumega for now. And no clinic visits until next Wednesday to get lab work. Dave's making dinner and we'll watch some movies. Decided to stay home tonight. Watch for a special New Year's Day greeting tomorrow. 2010 is coming!

2010 around the corner

Today Dave got his Neumega shot and made some wonderful chicken noodle soup. He is still pretty tired. Tomorrow CBC in the morning and we'll find out if he has to keep up the Neumega over the weekend. And it's snowy and icy out there....but baby it's warm inside!

Last Monday of the year

Dave had a clinic appointment today. Platelets are up to 63,00......YEAH! They still want Dave to get a Neumega every other day until it's a little higher. So shot today and Wednesday, then a CBC check on Thursday to see if he needs more. Hemoglobin is hanging at 9.4. No talk of blood transfusion today. I think they want to let him build it back up himself since the bad drugs are over. He can tell it's still low, pretty tired, but had enough energy today to clean the kitchen and make prime rib stew with the bones from X-mas day dinner. And it was good. All is good. :)

Whew- X-mas celebrations almost over

Not that I don't love Christmas time, I do.... but it's been an extra busy year. Have 3 small parties left this week. This week: Thursday was "Maki +" christmas at Ev Maki's, Friday we made dinner at home (fearturing crown roast and mashed potatoes) and had the "moms" over, Saturday we went to Avatar (thought it was great, liked the 3-D) and then Czars to see "Hello Dave". Today we went to South Bend for the 2nd Maki party with Dave's sister Kris. Whew!

Dave had shots Thursday and Saturday, labwork Thursday and today. MD appt tomorrow to see how soon we can stop the Neumega. I'm wondering if his hemoglobin is picking up yet. He still feels tired and a little more Short of Breath. They checked is O2 saturation Thursday and it was 93% walking, 98% at rest. Hasn't needed the set doses of Zofran 2x/day with just the study drug, still there's been some nausea and prn meds. Appetite seems to be on and off.

Hope everyone had a great Christmas and a wonderful weekend.

Merry Christmas to all!

But it feels like TGIF

Really, I kept thinking it was Friday all day. We were ready to stay home and make lasagna (well really Phil made it) and then Dave said... "I have a hankerin' for a burger" Couldn't find anyplace open and then I thought about the Chatterbox. They were open....so that's the place. Dave ordered a "pound burger" and pretty much finished it. Great place. Now on to finish wrapping gifts.......

12/22- an amazing day for all (results and a party) YEAH CP-751,871.

Pictures: Chuck and Cookie Hartzell and Dave at Silver Beach Pizza; Clare Dine ; Kay and Emma Dine- it's not a pose.

Well, the day is here....finally. Went to the clinic at 10:30 am but didn't get to see anyone until close to noon (they were busy today). The good thing is when you have time with the NP/PA and MD, it is all your time. At first we didn't think Dave would get the study drug because his platelets had only gone up to 33,000 (normally they like it at 75,000 for chemo). And Dave's Magnesium is low, so time to replace that. But we're getting ahead of ourselves if we don't talk about the results. Here it goes:

Liver mass and abdominal wall mass- both were quite small and are gone, dead.

Adrenal gland mass- less than 1/3 of the size, no action on the PET scan. Probably dead and Dave just has a nodule on his adrenal gland. Will watch.

Kidney masses- appear to be gone, were pretty small.

Rt lung mass- much smaller and minimal activity on the PET scan.

Left lung mass- the original mass. Has been gone on CAT scans x 3. PET scan shows some continued activity which is a concern for the MD. He feels it's important to continue the study drug and kill as much as possible so Dave can have some real remission.

Because of the continued activity in the left lung, the MD really wanted Dave to get the study drug today and continue every 3 weeks, even with a low platelet count. Although the study drug can affect platelets, its not as much as Taxol and Carboplatin. He's also getting a reduced dose starting the last cycle because of the low platelets and the hope would be as his platelets return to normal they can increase the dose.

So, chemo and magnesium starting at 2 pm. Dave was all done around 5 pm....still a full day. I have to mention the brain tumor. Since there are no symptoms of increasing size, the plan is to continue the study drug and look at a MRI of the brain in 1 to 2 months. Bottom line is Dave's masses have decreased 80% since the beginning of August. These are unusually good results for this type of lung cancer.

Whew- then between 5:30 and 6 we met family and some friends at Silver Beach Pizza and celebrated Dave's birthday and the results. It was great fun to see everyone and eat about 8 different kinds of pizza. Thanks to everyone who came by! Love to all.

Again, we so appreciate the positive thoughts, vibes and prayers coming our way. Merry Christmas to all... and to all a good night.

Quiet Sunday

Dave got his shot around noon and brought some Dunkin' Donuts home. He was inspired by some veggie soup Tom and Suzanne brought us last week and made his own. And then we had homemade egg salad sandwiches. I got most of the closet done.... YEAH! Clean sheets on the bed- final the flannels. We're ready for winter. Dave's bday tomorrow. 2 days to results. I won't get stuck on good or bad, just say what will be will be......

Mister Edd rocks

Picture: Dave solo-ing and Chuck on percussion.

Mister Edd played at the Box Factory tonight. Great music. Dave is really tired today and a little.... never mind. He's pretty sure he's getting Neumega daily and that really increased his fatigue the last time he had it that often. Not much on the schedule tomorrow. Although, I'm still working on the closet... a day of rest sounds good too. Monday is Dave's birthday. We'll go out to dinner I'm sure; he hasn't decided were yet. Well it's time to start saying "Merry Holidays to all".

TGIF

Dave's still tired but went to get his shot and do a small bit of grocery shopping. I'm determined to finally get the summer clothes put away and the winter clothes out this weekend. Mister Edd tomorrow night. Dave's birthday is Monday. Seems like a quiet day... and that's okay.

And we'd like 2 units of platelets please

Phone call came at 8:15 am.... infusion clinic and 2 units of platelets at 11 am. Dave went alone this time. Only took 2 1/2 hours. Hopefully that's the last of the platelet tranfusions. Dave has to go in for daily shots tomorrow through Monday. He didn't get the name of the drug, so I don't know if its Neumega or if he's going to get Neupogen again. Sometimes it's surreal to think it's been 5 months since the diagnosis. Time flies when your....... well stressed, busy, lucky and thankful. Good night all.

Platelets falling again

Dave had a good day. Blood work and Neumega shot, then ENT appt. He's going to have a sleep study in January (yeah- I've been trying to get him to do this for a few years). Tonight was Mister Edd practice, preparing for performance Saturday night at the Box Factory. I went to a book club meeting (haven't been since June) and then met up with Dave at practice to come home. There was a message when we got home (10:45pm) that Dave's platelets are down to 12,000. He has fairly bad petechiae on his legs and does easily bleed. So, it's a pretty for sure he'll have a platelet transfusion tomorrow. We knew this would happen with this last cycle since it did the previous cycle, glad it's before the weekend.

Adding some pictures

Dave checkin' out everybody's meal. Tim checkin' out his fish diner with his new flashlight hat. Fun times.

Tim's birthday

So it's really Tim King's bday. He came over about 7:30 ish AM to pick Dave for his 8 am MRI. Dave had an Ativan before going 'cuz he didn't really like the last MRI he had. Luckily it just lasted about 20 minutes. Dave, Tim and Tom went to breakfast and then Dave went to South Bend to the music store with Tim. Dave had more energy today and felt pretty good (bloods kickin' in). We went to dinner with Tim, Joni, Suzanne and Tom. Mexican. Time to relax. Tomorrow is Neumega shot and ENT appt. It's 1 week to the results... keep the positive vibes comin'.

Sunday gig and Monday blood day

Pictures: Byran Lubeck "Coats for Kids" fundraiser in Merrillville with the "Praise Team" singers; Dave made it through the day; Dave playing keyboards and Rick on bass; Dave and Ruthie pretending to nap; Nikki and Dave trying to nap.

Sunday was a long day. We left about 1:30 pm and got home at 10:45 pm. Dave made it through practice and the performance with only 1 complaint of some dizziness. We were very tired when we got home. This morning it was hard to talk Dave into getting up a little after 8 am, but there's his Neumega shot to get and then the blood transfusion. About 9 we got a call from the infusion clinic to come as soon as possible. Even though they saved his 2 units from Friday, he would have to have a type and cross check again before he could get them. Got dressed quick, in the car to the oncology clinic.... got there about 9:30. Dave thought donuts sounded good so I went to get some while he got his shot... of course I had to get a dozen ... extras for the infusion clinic staff. Got him in his infusion clinic chair about 10:15. I went to Holland while he rested and got 1 unit of Alison's blood and the second from an anonymous donor. Dave got done at 5pm and then we went to North Shore Inn for hamburgers since Dave had dreamt about them 2 of the last 3 nights. They were as good as his dreams. Glad to be home to rest now. Tomorrow MRI at 8 am, ENT appt late afternoon. The joys of follow up.

Day of rest... sorta

Dave got anther Neumega shot today and he made pancake breakfast. Always feels good when Dave's up to cooking. Liz dropped off some homemade soup and we went to dinner with Tim and Joni and Suzanne and Tom. We were suppose to be celebrating Tim's birthday (which is Tuesday) and I read the email wrong... thinking it was Tom's birthday. So we show up with a Bday card and rum bottle for Tom and it was suppose to be for Tim..... wait I'm still confused. Oh well, can I use the Chemo brain, radiation exposure excuse?

Tomorrow will be a 9 to 10 hour day in Merriville. I'll have pictures to post in the next couple days. Then Monday is blood transfusion day. Tuesday Dave gets his favorite (not)... MRI.

I feel like I should let everyone know how humbled we are by your support, prayers and positive thoughts. You help make the fight worth it and the burden feel lighter. Thanks.

Went for blood... and broken hearted

Got to Dave's PET scan a little late, but he got it done. Now he's "radioactive". So we walk into the transfusion clinic ready to start blood and were told it's a radiation hazard to have him there today. So blood transfusion is moved to Monday. I think Dave should get rest today and tomorrow so he can keep up on Sunday. What are you gonna do, complain? We'll go with the flow. Movies, rest and movies now on the schedule for the remainder of the day. :)

Snowed in...almost

I didn't get on the road this morning. Over 300 schools etc. are closed up to and around GR. Just doesn't make sense to drive with poor visiblity. I did get a lot done at home, then took Dave to get lab and shot so he didn't have to walk outside. Good news is: he saw the MD and NP and they had seen the first CT scan results sharing with Dave they are excellant. Hgb is down to 8.4. He could wait for blood but Sunday's a big day. So now we have to go get Type and Cross (he has a unit on hold from his sister Al) for 2 units. Tomorrow PET scan at 11 am, then he'll go to get the blood and will be there probably until 6 or 7 pm. At least it will be done. I'm just going to take the day off and be with him.

A day of rest

Dave was home for the day. No appointments, no shots...just rest. Then there's the snow storm. It was so windy this afternoon and the roads were slushy. Now the temperature is dropping, it's snowing and the roads are starting to ice. Ah, winter is here. And we started the morning with the furnace not working. Thankfully Dave got a hold of someone who came while I was at work and everything was back in order in less than 3 hours. Good thing we have electric heaters in the bedroom and bathroom too!

Some foods are hard for Dave to eat. He's been requesting a lot of soup the last couple weeks. Tonight he was going to make Mac and Cheese and I said "why make it when Panera Bread does it for us". Of course that meant I had to go out in this weather, but anything for my sweetie. Even got him to eat a little salad.

Tomorrow's lab day and I'm suppose to go to Grand Rapids. Maybe the weather man will be all wrong and I'll get there.

The storm is coming

Dave got Neumega today and a CT scan. It's snowing and sleeting tonight and blowing snow tomorrow. Practice was cancelled tonight. Guess we'll have to watch TV. Not sure if I'll get out of town tomorrow. Thursday is lab and shot day for Dave and they're having a Christmas party at the clinic. Just hanging low and waiting for the upswing.

Starting another week

Dave's BP has been okay today. He's had a little more nausea, pretty normal first week post chemo. CT scan tomorrow with those amazing prep drinks tonight and in the morning. Practice in Merriville tomorrow. We're suppose to get a bad storm, so we'll see. I'm sure I'll go along. I thought I'd post cookie party pictures for those who have ask. They'll be at the bottom of the page by the benefit pictures.

This Weekend

Saturday Dave rested while my mom and I continued to prepare for the cookie party. We both have colds, no temps or body aches though. He doesn't have as good an appetite as he's had, but did request soup from Panera bread... so we got it to go. Dave had his Neulasta shot earlier today and has had some nausea. While with "the boys" this evening, he had another episode of low BP. He seems fine now. Tonight was the cookie party. Great fun, great friends, great cookies. Now it's bedtime for both of us. Nite-nite.

The Graduate

Dave's rested a lot today. We had to be at the hospital for a heart echo at 8:45 am, home by 9:30. Dave made breakfast. There was a foot of snow in GR today and icy roads in the AM so I worked at home. Dave went to get 2 shots at 4:30, ordered Chinese delivery and is now watching TV in bed. I'm preparing for the cookie party Sunday with my faithful assistant, my mom.

Forgot to mention that Dave got a Purple Heart certificate for finishing his main chemo yesterday... BONUS. We'll be getting that one framed. Next clinic appt is Dec 22nd and we'll get results of all the tests.

The glow continues.

Celebration! Chemo is a go!

Pictures: Dave in the chemo room with his water and coffee- ready to go; Dave and Lee start the celebration; Dave- our funny boy; the last time for Taxol.

I woke up thinking this is the day, cycle 6 is going to happen. Dave's platelets were up to 73,000. The protocol at the Oncology clinic is 75,000 or greater. Since this was Dave's last full cycle, they said yes and I almost started crying. What a weight that's been lifted off of me and Dave. We had hats, noise makers, sparkling juice (3 bottles from Joni and Loni). Tim and Tom joined Dave and Joni for lunch and then they watched Monty Python. Also got Bits of Swiss rolls for the clinic nurses. Loni and Julie stopped by. What a great day. Oh, and Dave tolerated chemo well.

Now the test fun begins again. Heart Echo tomorrow morning; CT scans, PET scans and MRIs in the next 2 weeks. Results on Dec 22nd. Then the plan is for CP-751,871 every 3 weeks for 6 more doses. Dave is my hero. And to everyone who pushed us through... thanks.

Thursday- 6 am?

Can't sleep anymore.......what? Dave won't be up until 7:30. Thanks to all for positive thoughts and prayers. More later.

Wednesday- 1 day to chemo

Picture: Ruthie and Dave- aren't they cute.

Today Dave got Neumega and Neupogen shots, plus fasting lab work. He's pretty dang tired and rested most of the day. Dave cancelled practice with Mister Edd tonight to rest more. That's only the second thing he's missed since July. Since it's hard to predict what will happen tomorrow morning, I'll end saying..... we're ready whatever happens. :)

Tuesday - 2 days to chemo

Dave had to get "stat" blood work today, they really wanted it yesterday. Of course, he continues to get the Neumega shots daily. His platelets are a little above 60,000, we have to get to 75,000 for chemo (I'm pretty sure). Dave's WBCs were low today and he had to go back in for Neupogen. So the chemo is doing what it's suppose to and Dave's body is trying hard to keep up. I'm hoping for chemo Thursday.... but getting it safely when it works is best. :)

Dave's craving today was for soup and grilled cheese. He got it! I think we'll have a peaceful night watching TV in bed.....keeping positive thoughts. Reminds me of "while visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads."

Monday- 3 days to chemo

Dave had a "hankerin'" for broiled fish, soup and mashed potatoes with gravy. Where to find this in St Joe. Went through a few choices and decided to try the Boulevard. The other Maki's, Phil and Loni, joined us and Dave got pan fried fish with mash potatoes and gravy (not on the menu) and a big bowl of soup. Heaven. Still tired but starting to ramp up for Thursday. Time to watch TV in bed.... with 3 dogs.

Sunday- 4 days to chemo

Pictures: X-mas decorating- my mom gave me this ceramic tree made by my grandmother; in honor of my friend Julie's birthday Friday... a reindeer girl.

The count down continues. Dave remains very tired, napping and resting today. He got another Neulasta shot. Three more to go. I cleaned and decorated most of the day. In case it sounded different, I'm very glad we're having the cookie party. I want the holidays to be as close to normal as possible. Not a lot to report, which is probably good.

Saturday - 5 days to chemo and a fire ......

Pictures: Ruthie's tail after the fire.

Dave went in for his daily shot Saturday. He did get lab on Friday but we haven't heard anything. I think he'll also gets lab on Monday and Tuesday. The clinic is keeping a close tab on everything to ensure counts will be high enough for chemo Thursday (if possible). Although he's soooooo tired ... he's driving to get his shots and small trips to the grocery store, cleaning up dishes once a day (or so), made a camp fire Saturday and smoked some pork for dinner. I think he's doing a great job, but I know it's getting harder for him.

So let's get to the fire. Tim, Joni and my mom came over for a fire and din-din. The fire was great with extra wood added often to keep us warm. All of a sudden Tim shouted Ruthie's name and started to pull her toward us. My heart dropped when I heard her name. The smell of burning hair filled the air... she had laid her tail right in the fire. Tim said he heard something "sizzling". The pictures above show there is very little hair left on one side of her tail...thankfully no major injuries. We'll have to see if we can trim it for her. Hopefully hair will grow back; hopefully we can keep her from doing the same thing again.

This weekend has also been focused on getting ready for my annual Christmas Cookie Exchange party. I thought about canceling it this year, with everything that's going on.... but we should have a normal holiday (as normal as possible). So cleaning and decorating is a another project ......

Friday night = gig at friends bday party and 6 days to chemo

Pictures: Dave gettin' down on bass; Dave sits in with Lindsey Mierau; Sue, Mark Lester's "mom" and Lee; "Friends" starting the the night out.

Dave had a pretty good day. Got his Neumega and the clinic told him to drink Gatorade since his BP drop yesterday. So Dave comes home with several bottles of that. We had a wonderful ham dinner. A nice change after a great turkey meal yesterday. I'm getting ready for the annual cookie exchange party next weekend. Dave rested a lot of the day and then we were off to Julie Lester's birthday party. Great fun and lots of friends. Dave walked in looking a little bushed and then started playing.....the rest is history. It fills him up for sure. I'll post a little video tomorrow if it turned out.

We continue the countdown to cycle #6. It feels good to be so close, just need a little push and we're there. :)

Thanksgiving - 7 days to chemo

Pictures: Erik and Katie; Jean Smith and my mom- ready to fight the bird; Dave making gravy and Phil getting ready to cut the turkey; Katie and Jennie "Is it time to eat?"

Thanksgiving 2009. Dave was in charge of the gravy. I made a couple sweet potato casseroles and, as usual, there was an over abundance of food at the other Maki's. Great dinner and lots of family. Dave was very tired but did just fine until about 45 minutes after dinner. He got dizzy, clammy, sweaty and his BP was 65-70/40s and his HR was 95. Call to clinic but Dave's fighting the whole time... "I don't want to go to ER". MD agreed (this time) and just wants to know if he gets worse or if his heart rate becomes irregular. "Yeah" says Dave. BP 89/58 when we got home and HR 83. 2 glasses of water and I think he'll stay in bed most of the night. Dave will get a mini check tomorrow when he goes in for his Neumega shot.

I'm glad that we won't be in ER tonight. 7 days to chemo. I think rest is a number 1 goal for this week.

Wednesday- 8 days to chemo

Dave got sick this morning. It just came out of nowhere. Luckily it went away just as quick. We went to get Dave's Neumega shot and then he came along with me to Grand Haven and Holland. We had a great lunch at Butch's in Holland. It was nice to have a little company in between appts. After we got home I braved the grocery store and then picked up some pizza for dinner. All and all a pretty great day. The count down begins to cycle number 6. We'll get there this time.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Chemo day....moved to next week

We kinda had a suspicion that Dave could get his cycle stalled until next week. That's exactly what we heard when our NP came in the room this morning. Dave's platelet low was actually 5,000, went up to about 65,000 and then started back down ending up at 45,000 on Monday. The plan is to get Neumega daily through next Wednesday with a couple extra labs. If Dave can get up to 75,000 by Wednesday, we're a go next Thursday for cycle 6. They will be dose decreasing 10%, but told us it's still great he's getting all 6 cycles in. The dosages for Taxol and Carboplatin have been max. for the study. I guess many oncologist give a dose 10% lower to avoid some of the severe side effects.

So, breakfast at Joe's and then Dave went to hang out with Tim and Tom at the King's house. I went over this evening and joined them for dinner. Very nice not to have to worry about that. Now, if I could just get Dave to watch the Dancing With the Stars final with me. :)

Something on my mind

Picture: The little things to appreciate- a man and his dog napping.

Last night I woke up at 3 am and couldn't get back to sleep. I tried but kept thinking about something. A couple of great friends gave me a birthday card and the message was... how we think our lives will go and how it isn't always that "cookie cutter ideal". There can be a different path and that will be better than we expect. When I read it, I don't think my thoughts were the most common...... we come in contact with cancer and the cure will come and we'll appreciate life more. I thought about how my life has changed and how I appreciate the now and all my time with Dave so much more than I did before the "C' word. When we were going through the beginning shock I told Dave I was sorry we had to go through this. He said to me, maybe we were more lucky than most.... to know the time we had was finite and to appreciate that as a gift. So now the cancer means our life is better NOW and we are closer and more thankful for time together than before the CANCER diagnosis. It means we shouldn't be afraid of cancer or death.... we should enjoy the time we have. I live and breath that everyday. I hug, touch and kiss Dave thinking how sweet it is and how I am fulfilled forever with his love and being. I am a better person. Thanks Tim and Joni for those thoughts that continue to inspire me. I love you both.

Saturday at the Box Factory

Saturday at the Box Factory with Bryan Lubeck. It was a great show. Tim King on sax, Mark Moore on bass, Ed Skjordal on drums, Dave on keyboard and Bryan on guitar and vocals. Very good performance and fun night. Thanks to all.

A Boost

Platelets and PRBCs sure give a boost. Dave is still tired, but no bleeding and getting some things done. Went to hear Dave play with Bryan Lubeck tonight. Dave did great and looked good. Labs again tomorrow and then prep for Chemo #6. We remain positive. Looking forward to Thanksgiving. Will post pictures tomorrow.

Dave plays with Pink Freud

Pictures: Dave playing large keyboard solo: Tony Ornt (band lead singer and keyboard); Bass player Kenny.

Well, Dave was up to going to see his old friends Pink Freud, a Chicago band that plays... you guessed it Pink Floyd, at Czars. They had Dave come up and play part of a song with them. Great guys and fantastic musicians. Dave had fun, but we were home by 12pm. Big day tomorrow. Lab to check platelets and hgb and then concert with Byran Lubeck at the Box Factory. Starts at 8 pm, see you there.

Chemo can be hard

Pictures: Dave giving me a smile; less than 1 UPRBCs to go!

Dave woke me up at 7:15 am thinking we might need to go to the ER. He'd been up for an hour coughing up blood or getting blood when he blew his nose. We immediately called the clinic and had orders to go right to the infusion clinic to get platelets and blood. They drew blood first and his platelets were very low, 7,000 (normal is) ,and his hgb was 8. So Dave spent the whole day in the infusion clinic..... 2 units of platelets (Dave had a wild description of that) and 2 units PRBCs (his 7th and 8th). He was bored, but tolerated it well. I had to leave for a few hours. We got home about 5:20 pm. I hope there's no blood reaction tonight- I have no desire to go to ER on another Friday. Dave is now only having a few streaks of blood when blowing his nose. The NP said there's a chance they may have to decrease his chemo dose on Thursday. We'll have to see. They are checking his CBC Saturday and Sunday, monitoring closely.

And then there's CW. Still wants to go to Czar's and see friends that are playing tonight. I'm going with (hope only for an hour). I'll have pictures tomorrow. The fight continues.

Petech....what?

I got back from Traverse City today. Dave had lab work and practice with Bryan Lubeck for Saturday performance yesterday. Today the clinic called and his platelets are VERY low. He has petechiae all over his legs, coughing up a little blood and got a scratch that bled for awhile. So, Dave tells me.... no one can stab him, he can't get in an accident and can't fall and hit his head. Good to know. He'll most likely get platelets tomorrow. He is pushing through.

Dave posted the full letter to the editor on facebook the other day. The newspaper did edit the one they printed. I thought I'd put the full version here too. Mentions lots of wonderful friends including the groups that played at the benefit.

Editor,

On Saturday, October 24th a benefit was held for me at Czar's 505 in St. joe. I'd like to take this opportunity to express what this meant to me and to thank some of the many people involved.

There was a bit of trepidation/nervousness as the night neared. Then I felt excitement, mostly because I knew I was going to be able to play music that night for music lovers. And after all I was going to Czar's, my second home for about 9 years. Tom Jennings had graciously lent out his club for the evening. The food was ready, the music equipment set up on stage, and the first group of musicians poised to play. At 7 pm people started flowing down the stairs. Ed Bagatini's group kicked it off with an appreciative audience. The jazz sounded great as we greeted friends and family to the party.

I talked to most but not all of the folks there. Friends from grade school, people I played in my very first bands with. My boss from my first job was there. My high school band director Bob Brown and choir director Dennis Bowen, who were bigger mentors to me than they will ever know. Close friends that traveled from California and Minnesota. Old friends, new friends, coworkers, and a slew of folks I have played with, recorded, or ran sound for over the years. We traded stories, reminisced, and caught up. The hugs were plentiful and the smiles broad. Feeling the vibes in this surreal forrest of people that supported me was overwhelming for sure. The thing that kept me on track and held it all together was the music.

The night was all about music and the music was great. Pretty much non stop from 7 pm till 2:45 am! Thanks to Ed Bagatini Quartet, Psycho Uke, Bob's Garage, Jenna and Nino Mammina, Danny Dine, Maxon Struwin band, Mister Edd, Dave Carlock and his Dominant Saxual Force, and Johnny Edwards for their immense talents and donations of melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. I think everyone realized how lucky we were to have that much talent in one room.

My thanks also go out to the organizers, Tom Jennings, Phil Maki, Lindsey and Sue Mierau, Tim and Joni King, Liz and Dan Shiman, Mark and Julie Lester, Jenna Mammina, Chuck and Cookie Hartzell, Ed Skjordal, Mark Moore, Gary Miller, Catherine and Mark Sanford, Jim Sink, Dave Carlock and WIRX for the live interviews, Pat Moody and Mailmax, and Jeremy Bonfiglio and the Herald Palladium. Also an immense shout of thanks to all my friends that showed up to party that night and all of the generous donations that we received from the community. I hope they all took home the memories of music and friendships that will last forever. I love you all. Thanks for the best night of my life.

Peace, Love, Groove,
Dave Maki

Dave is very tired.

Dave seemed to have a lot of energy on Sunday. Yesterday a little less and today he's very tired. Maybe a little flushed and feels cold. Temp is 99 degrees but he could be starting a fever. BP was high enough today for his BP med, now it's 104/60. It's still a push through to the 6th cycle next week. It's getting tougher... keep positive thoughts coming Dave's way. I believe CW will make it.

Such great friends and family

Pictures: Dave's nicely piled fire wood; Dinner at the Maki's- Dave and I sat on outdoor chairs (haha); Mom, Ev, Bill, Kay, Emma, and Claire enjoying Dave's home cooked meal; Emma and Claire.

So- another yard day. The Stickney-Dines and my mom came over to help rake up leaves. Claire twisted her ankle on the way and we set up a VIP area for her by the back door (included her own fire). Got a lot of clean up done before a great dinner of Chicken and noodles and then roasted marshmallows on the fire. A great day for Dave too. Our neighbors, Bela and Jean, brought Dave a handmade shawl to keep him warm during chemo. It was so touching. My heart is full and we feel so lucky to have such wonderful friends and family.

A Shot, A Gig and Sleep

Saturday was a much better day for Dave. He got his shot (Neumega) in the morning and he'll get this every other day through this Wednesday. We went to see "2012" with Tim and Joni and Suzanne and Tom- exciting movie for sure. Tried to get a nap in before we were off to Elkhart for a gig with Maxon Struwin. Mimi and Jeff live in Elkhart and they came by to listen. Alison and Mark, Dave's siblings, live in South Bend and they came to hear too! The band was pretty hot. Dave was feeling the numbness in his fingertips... couldn't tell from his playing. It was a long day (home at 3:30 am), but Dave said he felt pretty good. No complaints of nausea, although food is starting to "all taste the same". It's the count down to cycle # 6 Tuesday November 24th. They've moved this one up 2 days because of Thanksgiving.

Today will probably be another yard day. The big maple in the back yard is loosing leaves (it's always the last tree in our yard, typically late November), but there's still about 1/3 left. Thinking they'll be a fire. Dave got a truck load of wood last week. It was 64 degrees here yesterday, it's 47 now with an expected high of 50. We'll need warmer clothes. :)

Friday the 13th in the ER

While the camp fire was quite wonderful, Dave started having stomach cramps and feeling pretty bad. He first complained of itching arms and hands. While in the bathroom, I noticed his face, neck and hands were bright red and his right hand was swollen. Emergency consult with another nurse friend led to talking to the on call MD. Well, it could be a delayed allergic reaction to the blood transfusion ........ on to the ER. Got there about 8 pm- left at 10:30 pm. Benedryl took the "rash" away and 500 cc of IV fluid........ Dave's a lot better. Of course "it's very unusual for a reaction to blood to happen this late". We did what we were told; better at 8 pm than 2 am. Small dinner and off to bed. After all tomorrow's another day.

Thanks and more thanks

For those of you that didn't get the local paper today. Here's a little thanks from Dave. The link is Herald Palladium.

A night of great music and generosity

Editor,

A benefit was held for me at Czar's 505 in St. Joe on Oct. 24. I'd like to take this opportunity to express what this means to me and to thank the many people involved.

There was a bit of trepidation/nervousness as the night neared. Then I felt excitement, mostly because I knew I was going to be able to play music that night for music lovers. And, after all, I was going to Czar's, my second home for about nine years, as owner Tom Jennings had graciously lent out his club for the evening.

I talked to most but not all of the folks there: friends from grade school, people I played in my very first bands with, close friends who traveled from California and Minnesota, and many others. We traded stories, reminisced and caught up. The night was all about music and the music was great; pretty much nonstop from 7 p.m. until 2:45 a.m.!

My thanks also go out to the organizers, and also, an immense shout of thanks for all of the generous donations we received from the community. I hope everyone who attended took home the memories of music and friendships that will last forever. I love you all. Thanks for the best night of my life.

Dave Maki

Benton Harbor

Gotta love blood and music

Pictures: "Friends" playing at LMC Bertrand Crossing for the Indian Artist's show (Dave, Earl, and Bill); Dave and Earl; Dave getting down with a bass solo; Dave and his breakfast at the infusion clinic.

Last night Dave played in Niles. There was great art through an Indiana artist group and they had an awards presentation. Our favorite part was the JAZZ. Dave rested a little after his first unit of blood and we were there at 6:30, played 7 to 9 pm. It was fun.

This morning Dave went in for his second unit of blood. All went well including his breakfast. It was up to 60 degrees here today. So guess what..... camp fire tonight! All and all, a little blood and a little music goes a long way.

Another Blood Transfusion

Well, got a call from Dave early afternoon and he has to get a blood transfusion again. 1 unit this afternoon and 1 in the morning. He's playing in Niles tonight, so can't stay to get both. Hgb was 8.8 (I think). I'll write more tonight or tomorrow. He's hanging in there. Busy week. Plays in Elkhart on Saturday too.

"What a difference a day makes"

Really, Dave's BP started going up last night. He's still tired, but no more vomiting, dizziness or a lot of nausea. BP this morning was high enough to take BP pill. Blood culture and Chest x-ray were negative for infection. They did find his sodium is low... now he gets to take salt pills. Due to a craving (Dave's), we had fried chicken for dinner tonight. Feel a lot better about leaving town tomorrow. Call and bug Dave tomorrow night if you want (ha ha). Dave's playing Thursday night and Saturday night which leads to the week before chemo. Thanksgiving is almost here, do you believe it?

What a Monday Morning

Started the day hearing Dave didn't have any more emesis during the night, then he got up and told me he had been nauseated every time he got up during the night. So- BP time and it was 104/64 (or something close to that) and his heart rate was 95 (high). Dave has been symptomatic of low BP when it's that low. HERE comes the call to the oncology clinic and Dave had to go in for a blood cultures and a chest x-ray. Since he is keeping fluids down, they are looking for an infection. He goes in tomorrow for another platelet shot and they will see how he is then. It's hard for me to imagine, but Dave is even more tired. He just wants to sleep (understandably and fine as long as he drinks water and eats).... and sleep. The platelet shots (Neumega) will add to the fatigue so I expect the road to the last full chemo may be challenging. Dave is hanging in there and we will make it.

A tepid Sunday evening

Dave made a great Mexican pork stew this afternoon after going to get his every other day shot, stew has a fancy name I can't remember. The mom's liked it a lot. My mom and I picked up about 6 bags of leaves then our neighbor Kevin took them to the street. Our beautiful maple in the back yard still has leaves, so the final clean up is still too come. We had another great fire with the 2 moms and later our neighbors came by. It's been in the upper 60s today and still feels like 58 - 60 with lots of stars visible tonight.

Dave's been VERY tired today. Just had some dry heaves. Taking all the anti-emetics in his arsenal. His BP was 102/64 this evening, rather low for him and he's drinking lots of water. Glad he doesn't have a lot of things coming up this week. I'm planning to stay in GR Wednesday night, that's if I think it's okay for me to be gone. One day at a time seems to be the best MO for now.

It's Sunday morning

So, what is it with the "wake up at 7:30 am" no mater what time you go to bed deal? At least we both enjoyed great music last night. Dave said Steeley Dan was amazing. He got home around 1:30 am. Thanks Mark for driving. Jenna and Art Gomperz were great too. I got home around 11:30.

Dave threw up again last night. We may be getting to the really hard part. But only 1 big cycle left. Dave keeps his fighting spirit.... "Lee, I'm strong like bull" We'll enjoy outside, clean up a few leaves and harvest our potatoes today. Both of our moms are coming over. Hope to mostly enjoy the day. Now, I have to get cleaning the house. :)

Friday night at Camp David

Pictures: Dave in his new hat; Now that's gonna be a dinner.

What a beautiful evening, there's a heat wave in the Midwest! We had a fire and cooked steak and baked potatoes- great dinner. Of course it's dark around 6 pm. Dave got a great new hat (handmade) from our neighbors, Bela and Jean. It's very soft for his head and warm. He's getting a nice little collection of hats.

Dave is doing pretty good post-chemo. He had a lot of errands Friday which included a couple shots at the oncology clinic and the almost weekly stop to the pharmacy. He did have some issues with heart burn later in the evening and told me this morning he had to throw up. One of the first that wasn't just dry heaves. This morning he's better (but still in bed). He is suppose to continue pushing fluids today per the new study directions. If the vomiting were to continue and he couldn't keep fluids down- call to the clinic. I think we're over the hump.

Tonight Dave's going to see Steeley Dan with his brother Mark in Merriville. One of our favs. It looks like they're playing the Aja album tonight. I'm going with the other Maki's and Kings to hear Jenna Mammina at the Acorn in Three Oaks.

# 5 chemo cycle and some more success

Pictures: Dave lighting celebratory "roman candle"; the fireworks- really they're there- we just can't see them

A wonderful day. At Dave's oncology appt there were several discussions. His hgb was 10.8 and platelets were 78,000. Our oncologist does not give chemo if the platelets are 75,000 or less, so there was discussion before he went forward. Dave did get chemo and tolerated it well (so far).

1- CT scan results.

Let me start by saying no growth is success. And we had a 73% decrease the first CT scan and were told it is normal not to have the same % decrease the next time. Okay, not trying to be a downer, just setting the situation up for all. There was another 5% decrease compared to the original films, for a total 77% decrease in tumor size. YEAH! There is a small section of scar tissue where the original tumor was Lt lung (one reason for roman candle).

2- The study

The study continues and our MD feels that the success we have seen is due to the study drug (CP-751,871) . They have added some precautions and extra testing. Extra fluid 2 days before and 2 days after chemo, an EKG before each chemo, and some required labs (including glucose monitoring) which our oncologist already was monitoring. Bottom line, we can continue and Dave happens to have had minimal amounts to none of these issues.

3- The plan

The oncologist wants and feels Dave can get through the next chemo #6 the day before Thanksgiving. Dave will have more doses of the medication to increase his platelets and I'm crossing my fingers. After that, we'll get another PET scan to see what's going on. It's possible that lesions remaining are "dead". Dave will get another 6 doses of the study drug which hopefully won't be as difficult when stopping the 2 other drugs. Dave has had some decrease hearing and numbness in his fingers and toes, but not enough to stop. It's awesome if he can get the total 6 doses of all 3 medications in.

We remain positive and strong in our fight. CW is the best fighter in the world! He told the MD- I'm ready, let's go for it. I'm in awe of his commitment and will be by his side through it all. We will win.

Hoping for CP-751,871 tomorrow

The week is flying by. Today Dave gets lab in prep for tomorrow and chemo cycle #5. We'll get results from the CT scan last week and hopefully news about the study drug. On one hand it feels like Dave had cycle #1 yesterday, on the other it was ages ago. Either way we are wiser and better at enjoying the little things than we were in July. Will post results of oncology clinic visit tomorrow evening.

Fine start to the week

Dave saw the hand surgeon this afternoon, he thought as long as it's getting better with antibiotics (and it is) he could hold off on the procedure this time. YEAH! Dave got done in time to stand in line for his H1N1 vaccine. There's one clinic left in Berrien County, this Friday in Niles. Only high risk people can get right now and the information is on the webpage. I'm so glad he got the vaccine, timing was important with his chemo schedule (couple days before chemo). Now we wait for Thursday.

Leaves and Campfire

Pictures: Dave, Emma and Claire at the fire; Kevin, Bill and John after chili; John, Claire, Kay and Emma with lots of leaves; Emma and Claire getting a good start.

What a great day. It ended up being sunny most of the day and in the 50's. Friends came over to pick up leaves- the Stickney-Dines, John Payne, Sue and Lucas Mierau . Dave made some great chili and we had a campfire. Dave's feeling pretty good today. His finger is not sore today, but he still needs to see the hand surgeon. Trying to get him to do a soak in the morning- can't get him away from the fire tonight.