Happy 4th . . . .

Happy 4th of July everybody!

To me 4th of July has always been about family. I grew up from the age of 6 in Rough & Ready, a very small town just down Highway 20 from Grass Valley. It was a very rural upbringing and many of my characteristics, including a keen desire to explore new things, come from that upbringing. Some of my fondest memories are summer explorations with my two older brothers, Steve (4 years older) and Mike (3 years older). We would literally take off hiking in a direction and either come back later that night or a couple days later. I thank them for taking their whiny little brother. Some of my best memories are of 4ths of July. My Dad was integral in the beginning of an event usually held on or very near the 4th in Rough & Ready - Succession Days. It was great fun as a kid. Back in those days we had our own fireworks. I don't recall there being any fireworks displays like we have today. Much of the great fun revolved around buying fireworks. We'd take our haul home at night and set them off. I really think our kids miss out on this great fun.

Since my last update most of what has transpired has been coordinating the remaining medical procedures and doctors appointments that need to be completed prior to starting treatment. On Monday I will be seeing a speech pathologist that specializes in swallowing, Sue Yom (Radiation Oncologist) for Simulation and Sarita Dubey to coordinate chemotherapy. Mixed among those appointments I will be giving a 24 hour urine sample, blood and a chest xray. Finally I will meet with Frances Zhang, the clinical trial coordinator. On Tuesday (Joyce and my 19th anniversary), I have an MRI and a heart exam. These procedures will help establish baselines from which treatment will begin.

Late yesterday I received a call from Frances Zhang. For various reasons it now appears that treatments will begin July 21st. While this was initially disappointing to me, I do understand the need to have the best plan in place before treatment begins. Plus, this will allow me an additional week to get stronger and to prepare for my absence from work. Also, if they will allow me to start on the 22nd, I will be able to go to Eugene for introDUCKtion at the University of Oregon with Niels. That would be wonderful.

Bye for now . . .