Diagnosis: Leukemia; December 31, 1989-January 6, 1990

December 31, 1989

Samantha woke up at four o’clock for her feeding. Charlie got up as well, he said he couldn’t sleep. Samantha and I went to sleep after her feeding.

Samantha woke up again at eight o’clock. After he feeding I had a shower and got dressed. Then I slept until her next feeding which was at eleven o’clock.

After I had fed Samantha we went out looking for a house. We looked in Port Coquitlam but I wasn’t too impressed with the houses. Actually the houses aren’t too bad, it’s just the way the area is kept. Then in Coquitlam it’s too expensive, most houses are over $230,0000. It sure is getting depressing I want so much to have our own place.

We stopped at Video stop to rent a movie and of course Alex wanted to rent a game. Alex rented Bugs Bunny game. It was pretty good more for a younger child. Alex got up to level 17 the first time he played.

I fed Samantha when we got home and Charlie put on the roast. When I had put Samantha back to her crib, I put the potatoes around the roast. We ate dinner at five thirty.

I went for a nap at seven o’clock and woke up at nine thirty when Samantha woke up as well.

We watched the video and waited for the New Year to come in. It’s now 12:05 a.m. I’ll be going to bed soon.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup 11:30 a.m. 5:40 p.m. 12:10
Mercaptopurine -------- ------- 11:20 p.m.

January 1, 1990

HAPPY NEW YEAR! It’s hard to believe the 80’s are gone already.

Samantha woke up at three o’clock but she didn’t seem hungry to me so I gave her a smoother. She went back to sleep and woke up again at six o’clock.

Samantha woke up again at ten o’clock. After I had put her back to her crib I had a shower and got dressed. I’m feeling a bit better today. On December 29th my vision became blurred for about ten minutes. It cleared and left me with a headache. Then on December 30th and 31st I was so tired I had to have a nap or two. This morning I felt rather dizzy but not so tired.

I gave Samantha a bath at her next feeding. After her feeding we went to Maple Ridge to look at houses. The first complex we went to the houses were quite nice but the new houses are $194,000. The second complex I didn’t care for too much. It seemed too congested to me.

We got home at four o’clock. I fed Samantha shortly after we got home.

We ate dinner at five thirty. After dinner I put away the laundry and put a load on to wash.

We all played a Turtle game, as usual Alex yelled at us for not jumping or doing something at the right time.

Alex went to bed at eight o’clock. I wrote in the journal. It’s now nine o’clock. I’ll be going to bed soon.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.
Bactrim 11:00 a.m. ------- 7:20 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ----- 7:20 p.m.
Methotrexiate ------- ------ 7:20 p.m.

January 2, 1990

Samantha ate at six, nine thirty, twelve, two, four and eight forty five.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup 9:00 a.m. ------ -----
Mercaptopurine ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.

January 3, 1990

Samantha ate at six forty five, ten forty five, two thirty, five thirty and ten o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 10:00 a.m. ------ 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.

January 4, 1990

Samantha woke up at six thirty, eleven, two, six and eight thirty.

We went to see a house on Cove Place yesterday. It’s $217,0000 quite a nice house with a big lot. Just what we’re looking for. We made an offer and Lex presented the offer. He came back last night with a counter offer, they won’t go any lower than $217,000. I phoned Mom and Dad to tell them that the deal had fallen. They offered to give us the $7,000 as part of my inheritance. I thanked them very much and told them how much we appreciated it.

I left Charlie a message that night as to what had happened. The next morning we made a counter offer. Charlie thought it over very carefully and talked to Dad. He asked Dad for his help in case he needed a financial assistance. Dad said he would.

By that time Lex told us the counter offer had been accepted. He said we would have to act fast as the possession date is January 11th. We’ll have a lot to do the next couple of days.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

January 5, 1990

Samantha woke up at five o’clock. She sure isn’t feeling good. She has a cold as well as a cough. Samantha was quite bad last night. She had a temperature of 38.3C, so I gave her Tempra. Unfortunately I can’t give her cold medicine like I give Alex.

We both went back to sleep after her feeding. Samantha woke up for her next feeding at ten o’clock. Her temperature was 37.3C, I gave Sam another dose of Tempra. When I finished feeding her I made an appointment with the doctor. The receptionist said to come between two thirty and four thirty.

After I had put Samantha back to her crib I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast. Then I made the beds and tided the upstairs.

By that time it was time for lunch and to feed Sam again. We left at two forty five. Charlie had already left for work. He did a lot of running around today. Mostly signing papers re the mortgage and he gave Lex the business card of the lawyer.

We had to wait a long time to see the doctor but Samantha was good. She feel asleep after awhile. Alex was more of the problem. He wasn’t able to sit still for one second!

Dr. C checked Samantha. She said she could hear something in her chest. It could be the start of bronchitis. She asked me if Samantha was lethargic and had a temperature. I said what do you mean by that. She said if she has become tired, doesn’t eat very well and has a temperature. I told her Sam had a temperature yesterday of 38.3C but she was okay other than that. Samantha was quite cranky yesterday.

Dr. C said her chest isn’t that bad but with the color of the discharge in her nose it would be advisable to start her on antibiotics. I asked her if it would be okay if I gave Samantha Tempra if she had a temperature. Dr. C said yes but watch how Samantha is. Dr. C said to give Samantha the medication for ten days and she wants to see Sam in one week.

We made an appointment for next Friday at 4:10 p.m. Then we went to London Drugs to get the medication. After that we went to the Drive through at McDonald’s and came home. Alex ate dinner while I fed Samantha. I also gave her the medicine which she doesn’t seem to like. Some of the medicine came out of her mouth.

I phoned Mom to tell her I had gotten the cheque this afternoon. Then I had dinner and cleaned up the kitchen.

Samantha didn’t sleep that well, it’s hard for her to breath very well. I fed her again at nine thirty, she went back to her crib at ten thirty.

I keep telling Alex not to get too close but he doesn’t listen to me. If he gets it he’ll be in trouble. I don’t know who would stay with him.

I wrote in the journal until eleven thirty. I’m going to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup ------ ----- 11:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.
Bactrim ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

January 6, 1990

I woke up quite a few times to check on Samantha. She slept until eight forty five. That was rather amazing but Charlie said it was probably the medicine that made her sleep.

Samantha was really hungry, she ate for about fifteen minutes.

I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast in between her feedings.

Samantha ate again at eleven fifteen, she ate for about fifteen minutes again. So the two feedings were like three feedings.

We went to Toronto Dominion Bank to get our bonds. Then we went to Van City Credit Union where we cashed in our bonds. We asked whether the RRSP would come out on time or not. I explained it was for the payment of our house we had recently bought. The clerk checked, she said it usually takes ten days for it to be done so it was cutting it pretty close. Then she said it should be in our account on January 9th. If it wasn’t we should phone and it could be done that day. Then we asked about the Fire Insurance policy that the lawyers said we had to take out payable to Van City. We were told it had to do with the mortgage. They won’t give you the mortgage without house insurance. The fire insurance pays off the mortgage first so Van City doesn’t get stuck with the mortgage. The clerk outlined a rough copy of how much the insurance would be on the house we’re buying. It’ll be $232 plus $50 for earth wake insurance. Charlie said he would let him know on Monday.

We came home, I put Samantha into her crib. Charlie and Alex went grocery shopping. At four o’clock I fed Samantha and at five o’clock I gave her her medicine. I had given it to her this morning at nine thirty.

When they came home they had brought a pizza home from Save On Foods.

After dinner I cleaned up the kitchen, did the dishes and wrote in the journal.

Alex and I wrote a letter to Grandma and Grandpa thanking them for his and Sam’s Christmas presents.

It’s nine o’clock I’ll be feeding Samantha soon and going to bed.

No tests

Medication

Cough syrup 11:00 a.m. ------- -------
Mercaptopurine ------ ------- 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; December 23-30, 1989

December 23, 1989

Samantha woke up at three thirty, eight, twelve thirty, four thirty and nine thirty.

I’m still doing my Christmas baking believe it or not. I started really late so I’ve had to do something almost every day. Doesn’t leave much time for anything else.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine -------- -------- 11:00 p.m.

December 24, 1989

Samantha ate at six forty, ten, one, six and nine thirty.

Alex is really excited, he keeps on saying I wonder what Santa will bring me. I hope he can find some of my turtle stuff.

Tonight was no trouble in getting him to go to sleep. I hope he doesn’t get up before us.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine 3:00 p.m.

December 25, 1989

It’s Christmas morning, MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Samantha woke up at seven o’clock. Just after I had finished feeding her Alex came downstairs. He said Santa already came. Charlie was already up and having coffee. I said it’s morning already. Alex couldn’t wait to open his presents.

We went to the living room. Luckily Sam is still awake to open her presents! That’s the way Alex wants it!

Alex got in his stocking a Turtle van soap dish, Riddler, Turtle figures, Batman socks and a Mario sticker book. Kelly gave him Leonardo, a stuffed toy to stick on a window. Kurt and Pearl gave him a book called the Polar Express. Lanie and Paxton gave him Joker and Batman suspenders. Santa gave him the Turtle Blimp. We gave him Batwing, a Batman game, Batman t-shirt, Batman pants and Batman slippers.

Mom and Dad phoned in the morning. We thanked each other for the presents. I asked Mom if we should say Alex got the Nintendo from us instead of them. They gave Alex the Nintendo system and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle game. Alex sure was excited the look on his face was priceless. He sure was happy to get it!

Anyways the reason I asked Mom was we’re planning on going to visit Joan and family. Mom said that’s okay as we bought Josh one as well.

Shirley and Aaron and kids arrived at one o’clock. I said I didn’t know you were coming. Shirley said I told you when I talked to you last. I said you told me you didn’t know what you were doing and you would phone me back. I said anyways you’re here.

Alex got a Ninja suit, Samantha got a sleeper and night gown from Shirley. We got cookies and candies from them.

They left around two o’clock. I had put the turkey on earlier. We bought a turkey and had it cut in half. This way we won’t have so much turkey left.

Samantha ate at two, seven, ten, two, five and ten o’clock.

We had quite a nice dinner. It was quiet but very enjoyable. I don’t think I would have been able to do too much more. It was good for Alex he was able to play with whatever he wanted to.

I went to bed around nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim ------- 3:00 p.m. -------
Methotrexiate 3:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.87C 3:00 p.m.

December 26, 1989

Samantha ate at one thirty, six, ten thirty, two, five and ten o’clock.

I phoned Joan but Mitch and Karen have the flu. First of all when I talked to her she said it was Karen who was sick and she was almost over it. Then Mitch came home and he said he was going to toss his cookies, so much for going there. I found out later that Paige got it as well. It was a good thing we didn’t go.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 10:55 a.m. ------- -------
Mercaptopurine 10:55 a.m. ------- 10:00 p.m.

December 27, 1989

Samantha woke up at seven o’clock for her feeding. That was a pretty long sleep.

Samantha ate again at eleven thirty, three and eight o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 8:30 p.m. ------ 10:40 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------- 10:40 p.m.

December 28, 1989

Samantha woke up at five o’clock for her feeding. We both went back to sleep.

Samantha woke up again at nine thirty. After her feeding I put her back to her crib. I had a shower, got dressed and had my shower.

We went to Richmond Market, it had opened recently and this is the first time we have been there. They have a lot of seating in the cafeteria better than the North Vancouver Market. We looked around the Market after we had lunch and came home.

I feed Samantha on the way home. Charlie stopped to buy groceries at a small shopping centre but the store had moved.

We got home after three o’clock. I started to cook dinner at four o’clock. We ate dinner at five o’clock. After dinner Alex and I played the Turtle game on Nintendo.

Samantha woke up at six o’clock for her feeding. I put her back into her crib around seven o’clock.

Samantha sure is a happy baby. When we talk to her she talks back or she’ll smile. She sure is cute.

Alex went to bed at nine o’clock. Then he coughed so much we told him to come down. At ten o’clock Charlie gave Alex his cough medicine. Then we told Alex to go to bed. Alex was pretty mad that he had to go to bed.

Samantha woke up for her feeding again. I watched “The Accidental Tourist” a video we had rented. Charlie was asleep of course!

I went to bed at eleven thirty.

No Tests

Medication

Cough Syrup 8:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 8:30 p.m.

Temperature 36.68C 8:30 p.m.

December 29, 1989

Samantha woke up at six o’clock for her feeding. After she had eaten we both went to sleep.

Samantha woke up again at nine thirty. I still feel tired in which I probably will for quite awhile.

We went to Lonsdale Quay Market at noon. We probably shouldn’t have gone as Alex is feeling so miserable. He has a terrible cold. We had lunch there then we walked around. Alex went to the ballroom and looked at the toy store. One of the toy stores had Thomas the train toys and another one had Ducktale figures.

Samantha started to cry so I had to find a place to feed her. Charlie said I couldn’t feed her in public. I was just about to feed her when he got mad and said it was obscene to feed in public. I couldn’t believe he would say that! Luckily they had a room where I could breast feed Samantha.

We left at three o’clock and stopped at McDonald’s on the way home. Alex ate hardly anything at all. He wanted to go to playroom but we told him no. He looks so awful and has a terrible cold.

When we got home Alex watched TV and played his Turtle game. I played with him but it’s very frustrating as he keeps on yelling at me. I yelled at him how would you like it if I yelled at you while you played? Alex said fine I’m leaving.

Alex went to bed at seven o’clock. It’s now eight o’clock and I’m writing in the journal.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup 8:00 a.m. -------- 5:00 p.m.
Bactrim 10:00 a.m. ------ 6:30 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ---- ----- 6:30 p.m.

Temperature 37.38C 6:30 p.m.

December 30, 1989

Samantha woke up at eight o’clock. After I had fed her and put her back to her crib I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

I went back to sleep until Samantha woke up for her next feeding. She woke up at eleven thirty. After Samantha had her feeding I put her into the super swing. She seems to like it but she tends to lean to one side. Samantha is probably a bit young to be in it.

In the afternoon I made up the beds did the laundry and played a video game with Alex.

When Samantha woke up for her next feeding, I gave her vitamins and a bath.

Charlie went to get dinner at five o’clock. We ate at five thirty. After dinner Alex and I played another game. Then after the news was over Charlie and Alex played a game. Alex was pretty upset as Charlie went past where he had gotten before. I had said Alex was the expert but now Alex said Pa was the expert.

Samantha woke up again at eight o’clock. She sure is a good baby and such a happy baby.

I watched a video Charlie had rented, he feel asleep as usual!

Alex went to bed at ten o’clock. It’s now eleven thirty, I’m going to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup 9:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. 10:15 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ----- 9:30 p.m.

Temperature 36.78C 9:00 a.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; December 18-22, 1989

December 18, 1989

Samantha woke up at one twenty five, five, then twelve fifty, four and eight o’clock.

Alex went to school, this Friday is the last day of school for the year. I’ll be glad of that, it is so much easier for me with Alex at home.

I’ve got pretty well all my shopping done. I never did find the Batmobile. Alex found the Bat Wing and talked me into getting it for him. I wrote Allison and she said they don’t have any there either.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 8:00 p.m. ------ 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate -------- -------- 8:00 p.m.

December 19, 1989

Samantha ate at two thirty, five, ten twelve forty five, three forty five, eight and eleven forty five.

Today Alex went to school . We ate dinner at five thirty. Alex went to bed around nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.

December 20, 1989

Samantha ate at five, nine thirty, one, five and eight o’clock.

Alex went to school. Only a few more days until Christmas break.

No Tests

Medication
Bactrim 7:30 p.m. ------- 10:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 10:00 p.m.

December 21, 1989

Samantha ate at two, six twenty five, ten, two fifteen, four thirty and nine thirty.

Alex is getting really excited about Christmas. Actually for some time now. He ways Samantha has to open her presents with us. That should be interesting!

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup ------- ------- 7:30 p.m.
Mercaptopurine -------- ------- 7:30 p.m.

December 22, 1989

Samantha ate at four, nine, one, five and eight fifty.

Alex’s last day of the year for school. He brought home his table decoration which he said isn’t his. Mrs Wall said they share everything. She said they would check when they went back to school in the new year.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 10:00 a.m. -------- 9:30 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------- 9:30 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; December 11-17, 1989

December 11, 1989

Samantha ate at four, ten, one, for, seven forty five and ten thirty.

Alex went to school and came home afterwards. We ate dinner five thirty.

Alex says he wants the Turtle Blimp from Santa for Christmas. From us the Bat mobile, I’ve left it too late and I can’t find it anywhere. So far consumers is the only ones who sell it.

I have to be careful not to do too much. I had a breast infection last week. It wasn’t painful, it made me feel like I had the flu. First of all I became very cold and shivered. So I had an extremely hot shower and went to bed. I had to wear sweats to bed. Then I woke up at three in the morning feeling really hot. Marla told me what breast infections felt like so at least I knew all the symptoms. Feeding Samantha was rather painful but I got over it. A hot water bottle really helps.

This week I had similar symptoms but this time it was the flu. Luckily it was over quite soon.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

December 12, 1989

Samantha had a feeding at four o’clock and at eight o’clock. After her feedings I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

Charlie and Alex went to the hospital this morning. The doctor increased Alex’s medication; Mercaptopurine 1 pill alternating to ¾ pill daily, Methotrexiate 5 ½ pills weekly and the other medication to stay the same.

I fed Samantha at noon, Charlie and Alex came home shortly afterwards. Charlie took the day off so I wouldn’t have to take Alex in. I thought that was nice of him since it would have been very tiring for me.

We at dinner at five thirty. I fed Samantha at six o’clock.

Alex went to bed at eight o’clock. I thought Sam would have woken up earlier. I waited until eleven thirty and was just getting to bed when she woke up. By the time I fed Sam it was twelve thirty, then we went to bed.

Tests

WBC 3.2
HGB 12.1
Platelets 339
ANC 2048

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.
Prednisone -------- ------- 8:00 p.m.
Bactrim ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate -------- ------- 8:00 p.m.

December 13, 1989

Samantha ate at four, eight, eleven, three thirty, seven forty five and eleven o’clock.

Alex went to school and came home. He didn’t go yesterday since he went to the hospital. We ate dinner at five thirty. Alex went to bed at nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 10:00 a.m. ------ 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.
Prednisone ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.

December 14, 1989

Samantha ate at three, six thirty five, ten, twelve fifty, five thirty and eight thirty.

Alex went to school today and came home afterwards. Alex’s school had their Christmas concert. Alex was really good. We were sitting in the back and we could hear Alex singing.

We saw Shirley’s in laws there with Monique. They asked us where we were living, we told them at my parents on Mara Drive. They said where are you looking? We said in Ranch Park. They said there first house was on Cove Place.

We ate dinner at six o’clock. I try to get Alex to go to bed on time but it isn’t always easy.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ 8:00 p.m.
Prednisone ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.

December 15, 1989

Samantha ate at five, nine, ten thirty, one, four and eight o’clock.

Alex went to school at twelve twenty. After school, we picked up dinner from McDonald’s and came home. Alex sure looks forward to Friday night dinners. It’s funny because he doesn’t always eat everything.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.
Prednisone ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.

December 16, 1989

Samantha ate at six, ten, two thirty and seven thirty.

I still don’t have any energy, the doctor said after I had Samantha that I was anemic.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.
Prednisone ------- ------- 8:00 p.m.

December 17, 1989

Samantha woke up at three fifty, eight, eleven, four and seven thirty.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------- 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; December 3-10, 1989

December 3, 1989

Samantha ate at three thirty, seven, nine, eleven thirty, four thirty and nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ——- —— 9:00 p.m.

December 4, 1989

Samantha ate at five, nine thirty, eleven thirty, one, six and ten thirty.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim ——– —— 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ——- —— 8:00 p.m.

December 5, 1989

Samantha ate at five, nine thirty, twelve fifty, four, seven thirty and eleven thirty.

Alex went to school at twelve twenty and came home after school.

We ate dinner at five thirty.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim ——- —— 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine —— —— 8:00 p.m.

December 6, 1989

Samantha ate at seven, eleven two thirty, five and nine o’clock.

Alex went to school and came home afterwards. We ate after Sam’s five o’clock feeding.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 10:00 a.m. —— 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ——- —— 8:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate 10:00 a.m. ——- ——

December 7, 1989

Samantha ate at five, then, one, four fifteen and eight thirty.

Alex went to school and came home afterwards. We ate dinner at five thirty.

Alex went to bed at eight o’clock. I went to bed after Samantha’s last feeding.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ——- —– 8:00 p.m.

December 8, 1989

Samantha woke up at two thirty, eight, eleven, two, five and eight thirty.

Alex went to school and afterwards we went to McDonald’s to bring dinner home. We usually go thought the drive through. I find it a lot easier.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ——– —— 8:00 p.m.

December 9, 1989

Samantha ate at three thirty, eight thirty, two thirty, four, seven and eleven forty.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ——- —— 8:00 p.m.
Bactrim 10:00 p.m. ——– 8:00 p.m.

December 10, 1989

Samantha ate at six, ten, one, six and nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine —— —— 8:00 p.m.

*This was a very difficult time for me. I was extremely tired, I was anemic, and felt totally drained. The entries in the journal were very limited.
Leukemia Diagnosis

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 25-December 1, 1989

November 25, 1989

Samantha had feedings at four thirty, eight o’clock, eleven, two twenty, three thirty, seven fifty and ten o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.78C 8:00 p.m.

November 26, 1989

Samantha ate at three, five, nine, eleven thirty, four and eight.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

November 27, 1989

Samantha ate at one thirty, five thirty and ten thirty. Then again when we came back from taking Alex to school at one thirty. She ate again at four and eight thirty.

No Tests medication

Bactrim ------ ------- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

November 28, 1989

Samantha had a feeding at one thirty and six thirty. I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast after her feedings.

Charlie and Alex went to the hospital this morning. Alex was just going for a blood test. The doctor increased his medicine for Mercaptopurine ¾ pill daily, Methotrexiate 5 pills weekly and the other medicine is to stay the same. They got home at twelve thirty.

I had fed Samantha and was about to feed her again. Charlie’s on afternoon shift, so he went to work at two thirty.

I fed Samantha again at three o’clock. Alex and I ate a five thirty then I fed Samantha at six o’clock.

Alex went to bed at eight o’clock. I fed Samantha at nine o’clock. After I had put her back to her crib and she was asleep I got ready for bed.


Tests

WBC 3.9
HGB 12.6
Platelets 384
ANC

Medication

Bactrim ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

November 29, 1989

Samantha ate at one thirty, seven fifty five and eleven o’clock. Then again at two thirty, five and nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ----- 8:00 p.m.

November 30, 1989

Samantha ate at three thirty, five thirty, nine, eleven thirty, one thirty, four thirty and nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine -------- ------ 8:00 p.m.

December 1, 1989

Samantha ate at twelve thirty, five, nine, on thirty, five and eight o’clock.

Alex went to school, after school we picked up food from McDonald’s. I let Alex stay up late on Fridays.

We went to bed at ten o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 11:00 a.m. ----- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ----- 8:00 p.m.

*This was a very difficult time for me. I was extremely tired, I was anemic, and felt totally drained. The entries in the journal were very limited.

Diagnosis: Leukemia: November 18-24, 1989

November 18 1989

Samantha ate at midnight, three, six and nine. Then again at one, five and nine o’clock.

I went to bed at ten o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Prednisone ------- ------ 9:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 9:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.05C 9:00 p.m.

November 19, 1989

Samantha had feedings at midnight, four and eight o’clock. That was really good but during the days wasn’t. It’s better to get a proper sleep. I’d much rather have her up during the day than at night.

Samantha ate again at eleven, one, three, five, seven nine and eleven o’clock.

I went to bed after the last feeding feeling pretty tired.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 9:00 p.m.

November 20, 1989

Samantha woke up at three and seven o’clock.

I took Alex to school. I had fed Samantha before we left. Then she ate at two o’clock. Just in time before I have to pick up Alex.

Samantha ate again at five, eight thirty, ten and eleven o’clock. I then went to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Tempra ------- 6:00 p.m. --------
Bactrim -------- 1:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.65C

November 21, 1989

Samantha ate at three, six and nine thirty. Then at one thirty after I had taken Alex to school. When we came back from school, Samantha ate at four o’clock. Then again at six and nine thirty.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

November 22, 1989

Samantha ate at one thirty, six thirty, ten and one o’clock. I had taken Alex to school at twelve twenty.

Samantha ate when we got home at three thirty, seven thirty and ten thirty.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim ------- -------- 7:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ----- ----- 7:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.39C 7:00 p.m.

November 23, 1989

Samantha ate at twelve thirty, four, seven thirty and eleven o’clock. I took Alex to school at twelve twenty.

When we got back from school Samantha ate at three thirty, six thirty and nine o’clock.


No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 8:00 p.m.
Bactrim ------ ------8:00 p.m.

November 24, 1989

Samantha ate at twelve twenty, four, five and eight o’clock. Then at eleven o’clock.

I took Alex to school and fed Sam at two o’clock. She ate again at five, eight fifty and eleven o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 8:00 a.m. -------- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 8:00 p.m.

* I have decided to put a weeks worth of journal entries together. It was during this time I was anemic, I didn't keep the journal up to date as I would of like. There isn't much about Alex but he was doing alright and taking his medication.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 17, 1989

Samantha had feedings at twelve, three and ten o’clock.

I took Alex to school. I fed Samantha at two o’clock. We ate dinner at five o’clock. Sam ate again at six and nine o’clock. We went to bed at ten o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Prednisone ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.
Bactrim 10:00 a.m. -------- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine -------- ------ 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 16, 1989

Samantha had feedings at one twenty, five fifteen and eight thirty.

Charlie took Alex to school, I was feeding Samantha at twelve twenty. I put her back to her crib after her feeding.

We went to get Alex from school at two forty five. After we got home form school, Samantha had a feeding at three thirty and four o’clock.

We ate dinner at five o’clock.

Samantha ate at five twenty and eight thirty. We went to bed around ten o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Prednisone -------- ------- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 35.87C 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 15, 1989

Samantha woke up for her feedings at twelve thirty, one, five and eight o’clock.

I took Alex to school. He missed going yesterday since he went to the hospital.

I fed Samantha before I took Alex to school, she ate again when we got home.

We at dinner at five thirty. Samantha ate again at seven forty five and eight fifteen.

Alex went to bed at nine o’clock. I went to bed shortly afterwards.


No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 10:30 a.m. ------ 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.
Prednisone ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 35.16C 10:30 p.m. 35.25C 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis; Leukemia; November 14, 1989

Samantha woke up at two o’clock and again at seven thirty. After her feeding I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

Charlie took Alex to the hospital, Alex has to have an LP, Vincristine and a blood test.

Samantha had a feeding at eleven o’clock. Alex and Charlie came home from the hospital at twelve thirty. First of all Alex said I had to go to the hospital because he was having an LP and was upset I didn’t go. He said after they came home that it was okay with Pa. The doctor increased the Methotrexiate to 4 pills weekly, everything else stayed the same.

Samantha had a feeding at two o’clock and again at five o’clock. We ate dinner at six o’clock.

Alex went to bed at eight o’clock. Charlie had gone to work at two thirty. It’s quite something getting Alex to bed and feeding Samantha and getting her to bed.

I watched TV and went to bed after Samantha’s last feeding.

Tests

WBC 7.0
HGB 12.0
Platelets 379
ANC 6090

Medication

Mercaptopurine 8:00 p.m.
Prednisone ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 13, 1989

Samantha woke up at two o’clock, three, for and six forty five. I had breakfast after the six forty five feeding and had a shower and got dressed.

Sam ate again at eleven o’clock. I took Alex to school while Charlie looked after Samantha. Alex seems back to normal. I don’t know why his temperature was elevated. Sometimes he plays too hard and doesn’t get enough rest. If he doesn’t get the rest he needs, he has a fever then he has to rest.

Charlie waits for me to leave for the school at two forty five before he leaves for work. I have to set the house alarm before I go which is quite the feat.

Samantha ate again when we got home then at six, nine thirty and eleven. Then we went to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 8:00 p.m. -------- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------8:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate ~to be given at the hospital November 14~

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 12, 1989

Samantha woke up for her feedings at two and eight o’clock. I had a shower and got dressed.

Alex wasn’t feeling that well today, I took his temperature through out the day. His temperature was way above normal this morning. I gave him Tempra in the morning and watched him through out the day. He really didn’t do much but rested and watched TV.

Samantha woke up again at eleven thirty, four thirty and six o’clock. We ate dinner after the six o’clock feed. Then again at ten fifteen the it was bedtime!

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ----- 9:00 p.m.
Tempra 10:00 p.m. ------- 7:30 p.m.

Temperature 38.61C 10:00 p.m. 36.21C 1:00 p.m. 37.45C 7:30 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 11, 1989

Samantha had feedings at two o’clock and at seven forty five. Charlie fed her at two o’clock and I had to fed her after Charlie had fed her. I also fed her at seven forty five. I went back to bed after the two o’clock and seven forty five feedings.

I woke up at eleven o’clock. I had a shower, got dressed then it was time to feed Samantha.

When I put Samantha back to her crib I had my breakfast. Charlie and Alex had gone to the mall.

Samantha ate again at four thirty and six o’clock. We ate dinner after that. Then Sam had another feeding at ten o’clock, I went to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.
Temperature 38.45C 7:30 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 10, 1989

Samantha woke up at two o’clock. Charlie fed her then I had to feed her again. I hadn’t expressed enough milk.

Samantha woke up again at six forty five, after I had put her back to her crib I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

I then expressed my milk and sterilized a bottle. After that I collected the garbage, did the laundry and did the dishes.

By that time Samantha woke up. I gave her a bath and fed her. Alex had a bath about the same time.

Charlie came home from shopping, he bought barbequed chicken which we had for lunch.

I asked Alex to get ready for school. Alex said he had to have lunch which he already had. Alex started to cry. He had canned pineapple then he got ready for school.

When I came back from taking Alex to school I wrote in the journal, put away the laundry and fed Samantha at one fifteen.

Samantha and I went to get Alex from school then we went to McDonald’s. Samantha was really good, she hardly cried at all.

We got home just after four o’clock. I fed Samantha, changed her diaper, fed her again and put her back to her crib.

Alex put away his toys then watched Cosby. Alex didn’t go to bed until nine o’clock.

I fed Samantha at eight thirty and again at ten o’clock. I went to bed after Samantha was in bed.


No Tests

Medication


Bactrim 11:30 a.m. ------- 6:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 6:00 p.m.

Temperature 35.61C 6:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 9, 1989

Samantha had a feeding last night at ten o’clock. She messed in her pants so I had to feed her again.

Samantha woke up again at three o’clock. Charlie got up to heat up her bottle. I told him to change her diaper before he fed her. Charlie said what for she isn’t wet. I said of course she’s wet so make sure you change her diaper.

After Charlie fed Samantha and put her back to her crib, Alex came into our room. Alex said he couldn’t sleep. I tried to find out what was wrong but he wouldn’t tell me. Charlie told Alex to get into our bed. Charlie went into the other room to sleep.

Alex kept on talking to me. I told him if he didn’t stop talking he could go back to his own room. Finally we got to sleep.

Samantha woke up again at seven forty five. After I had fed her and put her in her crib, I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast. Then I sterilized a bottle and expressed my milk. I emptied the garbage, put the laundry on, and made the beds.

I gave Samantha a bath before feeding her at eleven forty five. We all took Alex to school then we went to T.C. Bank, Vancity Credit Union and the health unit. I weighed Samantha at the health unit. She weighs seven pounds four ounces, she put on a pound in two weeks.

We came home after we opened a safety deposit box at T. D. Bank. The women came to look at Samantha. They all thought she was so tiny. One of the women had just had a baby, eleven pounds eight ounces. I said oh yuck. She said it was by c-section.

We were only home forty five minutes when we had to leave to pick up Alex. It sure is raining hard, we haven’t had weather like this for quite awhile.

When we came home I fed Samantha at three thirty and again at four o’clock.

We ate dinner at five thirty. Mom phoned just before we were going to eat. She said they arrived at Yuma yesterday afternoon. The weather is in the 80’s F. Mom said they only have pills for three months and they think the other three months were packed in a box either in the closet or else in the garage. I said I would look for them and let them know.

After dinner Alex put away his toys and watched Cosby. Alex got ready for bed at eight o’clock. I fed Samantha at eight o’clock, then I read Alex his story, he was in bed at eight thirty.

I watched TV and wrote in the journal. I fed Samantha again at ten o’clock then I went to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------- 7:30 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 8, 1989

Samantha woke up last night at ten fifteen for her feeding. She went to sleep right away. I went back to bed as well.

Samantha woke up again at one forty. Charlie heated up a bottle of expressed milk. I changed Samantha and got her in clean clothes. Charlie took her and fed her.

When I went back to bed, Alex was awake, he said he couldn’t sleep. I read him a story and went to bed.

Alex came into our room awhile later, Charlie and Samantha were still downstairs. Alex said he still couldn’t sleep. Charlie said Alex could sleep with me. He was lying down with Samantha in the other room. I told him not to do that in case he fell asleep and rolled on top of her. Charlie said so what do you want me to do? I took Samantha and fed her. She went to sleep after I had put her in her crib.

Alex fell asleep in our bed I had to tell him not to talk so much.

Samantha woke up again at six thirty and again at ten o’clock.

In between the feedings I had a shower, got dressed and had breakfast.

Alex had a bath after I had my shower. I gave Alex his breakfast then I sterilized a bottle and expressed my milk.

I gave Samantha a bath before feeding her. She went to sleep after I put her in her crib.

I had my snack then I put the garbage from upstairs to the compactor, put the change table back and put a load of laundry on.

I got Alex ready for school, we left at twelve twenty. One of the other mothers is due in April. She asked Alex if our baby was good. Alex said yes. I sad she actually sleeps not like Alex. The women said I thought she must since you look so rested.

When I came home I had my lunch and wrote in the journal.

I picked Alex up form school then we came home. Samantha had a feeding when we came home and also one before we left. I find it rather difficult getting her ready, putting her in the car, take her out of the car, get Alex and put them both into the car. Especially the last few days, it’s been really raining. There isn’t much I can do though, at least Charlie stays at home with Samantha when I take Alex to Kindergarten.

Samantha didn’t sleep very well this afternoon. She had a feeding after we had dinner and again at six twenty. Then she slept until ten fifteen.

Alex put away his toys, got ready for bed and watched Cosby. Alex colored the leaves on his school pass. Every time they read a book they color a leaf.

I went to bed at nine thirty.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 11:30 a.m. ------- 7:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 7:00 p.m.

Temperature 35.99C 7:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 7, 1989

After the one o’clock feeding Samantha woke up at three o’clock. I picked her up and she fell asleep almost right away. I put Samantha back to her crib and went back to sleep myself.

Samantha woke up again at six o’clock and nine o’clock. After the nine o’clock feeding I had a shower and got dressed. Alex had a bath earlier, gotten dressed and was having his breakfast. I had my breakfast as well.

After breakfast I expressed my milk and sterilized a bottle. Alex turned the TV so loud that it woke Samantha up. Luckily she went back to sleep. Charlie told Alex to turn the TV down he had woken Samantha up. Alex said So what I don’t care! I said What! Do you want to watch TV down in the basement. Alex just laughed. We are having quite a time with him.

I did a few loads of laundry and put the garbage into the compactor.

After Alex had his lunch I asked him to get ready for school.

Alex had come to tell Charlie that Kelly was having a seizure. Kelly had one last night at nine o’clock. I had talked to Dr. Hi this morning. He said to stop the valium and to give Kelly Rivotral three times a day, a dose of 2 pills. Dr. Hi said it looks like Kelly has a tumour because epilepsy can be controlled with medication and Kelly’s seizure doesn’t seem to be controlled with medication.

I told him Kelly was disorientated, walks in circles and looses control of his bladder. Dr. Hi said that’s from the tumour not the medication. Dr. Hi said at some point you are going to have to make a decision.

I tided up the house and got Alex ready for school. Alex didn’t want to wear what I had picked out. They’re having their pictures taken today. Alex actually wanted to wear a sweat suit. Alex finally agreed to wear the sweater and cord pants I had picked out.

I took Alex to school while Charlie stayed at home with Samantha. When I came home Charlie went grocery shopping. Marla and Paxton came before Charlie left. They brought Samantha a present, socks with rattles in them.

They didn’t stay long as they had to go get Lanie.

Samantha and I went to get Alex. By the time we got there, Alex was coming out of the school.

When we got home I fed Samantha and put her in her crib. I started to cook dinner, clean up the kitchen and wrote in the journal. We ate dinner at six o’clock.

Samantha had another feeding at six thirty, she had a long feeding for twenty minutes. I put her back in her crib.

Alex put away his toys and got ready for bed. He watched Cosby of course. I read him a story then he went to sleep.

I watched TV and wrote in the journal. It’s now almost nine thirty I’m going to go to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------- 7:45 p.m.

Temperature 36.18C 7:45 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 6, 1989

Samantha woke up at one o’clock and five o’clock. She then woke up at nine forty. When I came downstairs I reminded Charlie that he had to take Alex to the hospital this morning. Charlie had forgotten all about it. They had to rush around to leave on time.

After I had fed Samantha I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast. I took most of Alex’s toys out of his room and put them into the basement. Alex wants to stay in Dad’s hobby room. So there isn’t enough room for all his toys and to play as well.

Charlie and Alex came home at twelve forty. Alex had a blood test. Charlie said Dr. S said I don’t know why you came in today Alex. Charlie told her she had requested him to come in. He said to me he really wonders about her. I said does she think we want to come in?!

Charlie bought Alex a police car that has flashing sirens and a real siren sound. I never realized how irritating it could be especially when I’m trying to feed Samantha.

Samantha had a feeding at two o’clock. I had a hard time getting her back to sleep.

I sterilized some bottles and expressed milk for later tonight. Charlie wants to be able to fee Samantha tonight when he gets home.

Samantha woke up at six o’clock for her feeding. We ate dinner when I had finished feeding her. Samantha didn’t sleep long she had another feeding at seven o’clock.

I got Alex ready for bed at eight o’clock. Samantha woke up again, I fed her at nine o’clock and ten o’clock. It was becoming very frustrating not being able to get her to go to sleep.

Samantha slept until eleven thirty. I took her downstairs and rocked her in the chair until she fell asleep. By this time Charlie came home from work. I put Samantha in her crib. She woke up at one o’clock again. Charlie took Samantha downstairs and gave her a bottle I had expressed.

I had gone to bed after midnight.

Tests

WBC 3.9
HGB 12.6
Platelets 372
ANC 2769

Medication

Bactrim -------- ------- ---------
Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 8:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate ------- -------- 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 5, 1989

Samantha woke me up at one o’clock and five o’clock this morning. I had to feed her twice at the five o’clock feeding as she had messed her diaper. When this happens Samantha’s tummy is empty.

I woke up at eight thirty. Mom and Dad were getting ready for their long drive to Yuma, Arizona. Today they’re driving to Centralia, they’ve reserved a room at Motel 6.

Mom and Dad put their stuff in the car and came back to say good bye to me. Mom was very emotional, we hugged and kissed each other. Mom said good bye darling. I’m so glad you got your girl. I wished her a safe trip.

Dad and I hugged each other. I wished him a good trip. Dad said look after my granddaughter. I said I will.

Dad said tell Alex Luigi left him a couple of coins. I said Alex would be really pleased.

After they left I had a shower and got dressed. Samantha woke up when I came out of the bathroom. I fed Samantha and put her back to her crib, she was asleep when I put her in but not for long. I fed and changed her again at ten forty. Charlie moved her crib into Mom and Dad’s room.

I put Samantha back to her crib again. She started to cry again. I gave her a bath and fed her again at twelve twenty. This time she went to sleep.

In the afternoon I moved Alex’s toys to the basement and wrote in the journal.


Charlie and Alex went out at two o’clock. They were going to look at houses, go grocery shopping, go to the car wash and buy dinner at McDonald’s.

Samantha woke up at four thirty. While I was feeding her Charlie and Alex came home. They started to eat dinner. I finished feeding Samantha and put her back to her crib. Then I joined them for dinner.

After dinner I did the dishes, cleaned the counter top and the sinks. I checked on Samantha a couple of times before I sat down to write in the journal. Charlie was asleep after dinner of course.

Samantha woke up at eight thirty. I had a hard time getting her to go back to sleep. She had another feeding at nine thirty. It was quite awhile after that that she went to sleep.

Alex had gone to bed around eight o’clock.

I went to bed after I had gotten Samantha to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.55C 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 4, 1989

Samantha woke up at twelve thirty for her feeding. I had trouble getting her to go back to sleep. I had tea around ten o’clock so maybe the caffeine kept her up. I fed her again at one forty five. This time she slept until four forty five and went back to sleep again.

Samantha woke up before eight o’clock. After I had fed her I had a shower and got dressed. When I came out of the bathroom, Samantha was crying. I fed her again at nine thirty and put her back to her crib but she started to cry again. I fed Samantha again at eleven o’clock. I was exhausted from Samantha having so many feedings.

Alex and I went to Super store to buy a few groceries, a blanket that matches Alex’s comforter and a box of free diapers.

When we came home Samantha was awake again. Mom said she had messed in her pants. She had clean her up and Charlie was holding her.

I fed Samantha at one o’clock and put her back to her crib. She slept this time until dinner time.

I was so tired I went for a nap and slept until four o’clock. We ate dinner at four thirty. Just as we started to eat Samantha woke up. I fed her while we ate dinner. When she was finished eating I put her to bed.

Samantha woke up on and off until I fed her again at eight thirty. Mom kept on asking me if I was alright. I said I was fine. She said you seem rather cranky. I said with Samantha not sleeping very well I find it tiring.

Alex went to bed at nine thirty. He sure has a good time playing Mario with Dad.

I went to bed at ten o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 9:50 p.m.

Temperature 36.92C 9:50 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 3, 1989

Samantha had feedings at midnight, three thirty and seven o’clock. After her seven o’clock feeding I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

Alex had his shower when he got up then he had his breakfast. I gave Samantha a bath before feeding her at eleven o’clock.

I got Alex ready for school, made him his lunch and got him to pick out his snack.

I took Alex to school and came home. Samantha woke up again when I got back. I fed her again and put her back to her crib. Samantha cried on and off during the afternoon.

Mom and Dad came home around two thirty. They brought Uncle Robert back with them. They had taken him out for lunch.

Mom held Samantha while I went to pick up Alex. Mom, Dad and Uncle Robert left at three thirty. Mom and Dad came back before four o’clock.

I fed Samantha again at three forty five. Charlie came home at four o’clock. After he had his shower he went out to buy Chinese food. We ate at five thirty. I had gone for a nap before dinner. I seem to need a nap every day or else I go to bed early.

Jeff and Martina came at eight thirty. They stayed until eleven o’clock. Martina had brought a pumpkin pie she had made. We had it with tea.

Jeff said he hasn’t started on his diet yet but he will be when he goes to the doctor in a couple of weeks.

They left around eleven o’clock. I let Martina hold Samantha, she was in her glory.

I fed Samantha at eight thirty, eleven thirty, twelve thirty and one forty five. I had a pretty late night.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 1:00 p.m. ------- 9:50 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 10:30 p.m.

Temperature 38.78C 10:30 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 2, 1989

Samantha woke up for her feeding at three thirty. After I had put her back to her crib I checked on Alex. He woke up and told me he was hot and had a headache. I took his temperature, it was a bit up. I gave Alex Tempera but Alex still didn’t feel well. Alex started to cry that his head really hurt. Charlie was awake by this time, he said Alex could sleep with me. I told Alex he couldn’t cry when he came into our room as he might wake up Samantha. Alex said okay, he asked me to put my arm on him while we slept.

Samantha woke up again at eight o’clock. Mom and Dad were already up. Her next feeding was at noon.

Alex wasn’t well today, he didn’t go to school today. He followed me every where I went and wanted me to sit with him. It was rather difficult as I had to look after Samantha as well as do all the chores.

Alex’s temperature was up, I gave him Tempera throughout the day. Maybe Halloween was too much for him.

Mom had made dinner as usual. I feel rather guilty that she has to go to so much trouble. They want to use up their meat. They have a whole freezer full of meat. Mom said she thought she would be using it when Blair came down but Blair ate at the hospital.

Samantha ate at four o’clock and again at eight thirty.

Charlie and I picked Kelly up from the vets at six o’clock. Kelly sure doesn’t look very good. He looks so upset and his eyes are blood shot. Kelly is very dopey from all the medication they gave him today. The vet said Kelly is a severe epileptic, he put Kelly on valium as well as Rivotral. It sure is bad seeing him like this.

Alex seems to be feeling a lot better now. He got ready for bed at seven thirty. I went to bed at nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication cough syrup ------- 3:00 p.m. -------
Tempera 4:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. --------
Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 7:30 p.m.

Temperature 37.92 8:00 a.m. 37.68C 10:00 a.m. 37.29C 3:00 p.m. 39.60C 5:00 p.m. 37.85C 7:30 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; November 1, 1989

Samantha had a one thirty and five thirty feeding. Then she had an eight o’clock feeding. I gave her a bath before her noon feeding.

In between that, I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast. I also did the laundry and emptied the garbage.

I took Alex to school, Mom watched Samantha while I was gone. I rested until it was time to get Alex.

I fed Samantha at three thirty. We ate dinner at five o’clock.

Alex, Charlie and I went out while Mom and Dad watched Samantha. We went to Canada Trust, I needed to sign the T-Bill account. Then we went to London Drugs and came home.

When we got to the driveway Dad was waiting for us, he looked very upset . My heart dropped when I saw him. Then Mom came out too. They said Kelly was having seizures and they couldn’t get them to stop. Mom figured Kelly had about seven seizures by the time we got home. I phoned the Port Coquitlam Animal Hospital. I was told all the doctors had gone home. They finally gave me an emergency number which was for Eagle Ridge Animal Hospital. I phoned Dr. Hi at home and told him the problem I was having. Dr. Hi said he would meet us there. Charlie put Kelly into Dad’s station wagon. Charlie, Dad and I took Kelly to the vets. Kelly had two more seizures in the car.

Dr. Hi said he would started working on Kelly right away and he would phone us tomorrow morning.

Not long after we got home the vet phoned he said Kelly had a temperature of 106F and they had been able to get him stabilized. He said he would phone again tomorrow.

It sure is an awful feeling when Kelly has seizures like that. It’s bad enough when he has one let alone continually.

Dad kept asking me if I was alright. I stayed upstairs for quite awhile.

Alex went to bed at eight o’clock. After Samantha’s nine thirty feeding I went to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 2:00 p.m. ------- 7:30p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 37.92 1:00a.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 31, 1989

Samantha had a feeding at one o’clock, four thirty and seven o’clock. After the seven o’clock feeding I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

Mom and Dad were already up. Alex had his shower, got dressed and had his breakfast.

Samantha had a feeding at eleven o’clock. I got Alex ready for school and took him there. Alex wore his Halloween costume to school. Alex’s class had a Halloween party, they sang songs for all the parents. Then they went in a parade where they paraded through all the classrooms. Each grade parades through to the other grades. The younger grades parade to the higher grades. The principal and teachers gave each child one treat. I walked with Alex but I didn’t go into the classrooms with him. Then they walked outside down the block. I was feeling tired so I told Alex I was going home and would pick him up later.

When I got back Tony, Mom’s friend was there. She gave us a whole bunch of presents which was really nice. A package of cookies for me, a dress, sleepers and a toy for Samantha and a book for Alex.

Tony left before I went to pick up Alex. I fed Samantha when we got home and had a nap.

I took Alex out trick or treating around six o’clock. He was suppose to go out with Patrick but Patrick already went out. We only went to a few houses and came home.

Dad set off the fireworks. Alex had a really good time.

Samantha ate at seven thirty and ten o’clock. Then we went to bed.

No Tests
Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 30, 1989

Samantha fed at one, two, five thirty and eight thirty. I sure had quite the time this early morning. It must be from the tea. Samantha is quite irritable when I have tea and keeps on waking up throughout the night.

Mom and Dad were already up. I took Alex to school today. Everyone was nice, they said congratulations. I picked Alex up after school. Mom stayed with Samantha the whole time. She said she didn’t make a peep!

Charlie is on dayshift which is good. At least he isn’t coming home at midnight and waking us up!

Mom made dinner, I try to help but I feel like I get in the way.

After dinner I had a nap. I fed Samantha at seven twenty, eleven and midnight.

It’s quite something getting Alex ready for bed and looking after Samantha. Charlie doesn’t want to have to help, but I try to get him to help anyways.

I went to bed some time after one o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 10:00 a.m. ------- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 8:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate -------- ------- 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.34C 10:00 a.m. 35.90C 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 29, 1989

Samantha ate at two, for and seven o’clock. Dad was up not longer after I got up to fed Sam at seven o’clock. It’s rather strange living with Mom and Dad again. I never realized how much Mom does for Dad. It’s just not something I would do for Charlie. I feel we’re equal and there is no need for the woman to be doing so many things for her husband.

We had breakfast together which was nice.

Joan and I went out to the mall after lunch I wanted to get something to wear. I want to wear something other than maternity clothes but I can’t find my regular clothes. They must be in the garage somewhere!

Joan and the kids left around four o’clock. Mom cried then Joan cried then they both cried, what a pair!

We ate dinner at five o’clock. After dinner I had a nap, I can’t believe how tired I am. I seem to be so much more tired than after having Alex. The only difference of course is that I’m breast feeding.

I fed Samantha at seven o’clock and again at eleven thirty. Then I went to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 8:30 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 28, 1989

I forgot that yesterday Alex, Samantha and myself moved to Mom and Dad’s. Charlie spent most of the time to finish packing. He was really exhausted.

Charlie was up at the house while the movers took all our furniture.

Samantha had her feedings at two, five thirty and eight o’clock.

The movers didn’t come down until the afternoon. They really know how to stack the furniture up properly to get everything in. Everything was moved in by three o’clock and the movers paid.

Joan and the kids arrived down around five o’clock. Luckily they had been able to make it down. Joan’s been having trouble with the van and had phoned last night to say they couldn’t make it. That really upset Mom who had been looking forward to seeing them before they go south.

Paige is as cute as ever, she’s such a happy child. Even her voice sounds happy, a gem to be around. She wasn’t too interested in Samantha, more interested in following the other kids around.

Mom and Joan took turns holding Samantha. Joan would love to have another child.

Mom made a special dinner of turkey and the works with Black Forest cake for dessert. She always goes to so much trouble.

Samantha ate again at noon, three, seven and nine o’clock.

I would have liked to stay up longer but I was too tired and went to bed after Samantha.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 27, 1989

Samantha had feedings at three o’clock and six forty five. I had a shower and got dressed.

Samantha ate again at ten thirty and two thirty.

Mom has been taking Alex to school all this week. It has been a big help, I would find it much too difficult.

Sam ate gain at six thirty and eleven o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 8:00 p.m. ------ 8:30 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 9:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 26, 1989

Samantha had feedings at midnight, for and eight o’clock. I had a shower, got dress and had my breakfast.

Samantha ate again at twelve thirty, four thirty and eight thirty. After the eight thirty feeding I had trouble getting Samantha to sleep. At this time I was drinking tea which I found out later makes Samantha irritable.

I didn’t get to sleep until some time after eleven o’clock.

No tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 25, 1989

Samantha had a feeding at one thirty, four o’clock and seven o’clock this morning.

After Samantha’s seven o’clock feeding I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast. I tided up the house and phoned Mom. I asked her if she could come up and look after Samantha. I had to go to Save on Foods. I said I thought Samantha wouldn’t wake up until at least ten o’clock. Mom said she had to have a shower and wash her hair but she would be up soon. I don’t think she was too please about it.

Mom came at nine o’clock. Alex was in the shower when I left. I went to Save on Foods and Safeway and came home.

Mom said Samantha didn’t make any noise while I was gone. Mom went home. She hadn’t gone long when Samantha woke up for her feeding.

After I had fed Samantha and put her in her crib I phoned Morgan. I asked her if she would be able to take Alex to school and bring him home. She said everyday? I said no just for today. She said yes she world be able to do it today. Some days she doesn’t pick Patrick up when he goes so someone else’s house. Morgan said she would come to our house to pick Alex up. Morgan phoned back at noon, she asked if Alex would like to come to their house after school. I said sure that would be really nice. Morgan said she knows she needed a nap in the afternoon. I said I felt I need a nap today. Morgan said she would phone when she sends Alex home. I said okay and thanks.

I got Alex to get ready for school and to pick out what kind of snack he wants to bring.

Morgan came to pick Alex up. I had my lunch and watched TV. Samantha had her feeding at one thirty. After I had put her back into her crib, I had a nap. I slept until four o’clock when Charlie came home.

I went to Super Valu and when I came home Alex had come home from Morgan’s.

We ate dinner at six o’clock. I fed Samantha before we had dinner. After dinner I rested until it was time to feed Samantha again.

Alex went to bed at eight o’clock. I fed Samantha at nine thirty and went to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 12:00 p.m. ------- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.03c 12:00 p.m. 35.90 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 24, 1989

Samantha feed at one, four and nine o’clock this morning. She sure is good at going back to sleep. The only time she fusses is between ten o’clock and noon. This morning she started to fuss but I put my hand on her back and she went right to sleep. This is the first morning she’s slept through without crying too much.

Mom phoned around ten o’clock to say that Holly and Blair would be on there way up. Holly had gotten out of the hospital early so they’re going home today.

When they came they stayed by the front door as Holly can’t climb up the stairs.

Samantha stayed asleep the whole time I was holding her. Holly wanted her to open her eyes but Samantha was too tired.

Blair said they wanted to get going as it was eleven o’clock. Holly didn’t want to leave Samantha.

I put Samantha back to her crib, she didn’t wake up at all.

Alex had his lunch and got ready for school. Mom came to take Alex to school. The health nurse said I should get someone to take Alex to school for this week at least.

After Alex had gone to school, I had my lunch. Samantha woke up for her lunch. Now it doesn’t take her so long to feed. By the time she eats which is about ten minutes on one side and she falls asleep it takes about half an hour.

I would of liked to have had a nap but the health nurse is coming this afternoon.

She came at two o’clock. Her name is Diana. We talked about Alex first, about him going back to school. Diana asked if he had been sick. I told her Alex had a cold and couldn’t go to school because he has Leukemia. We have to be careful especially when Alex’s counts are down. It was a good thing I had told her since she said when Samantha has her shots the polio vaccine would have to be specially ordered. Samantha can’t have a live virus as it comes out of her body into the air. The chances of Alex getting the virus would be very high. I didn’t even realize that, I knew Alex couldn’t have his booster shot for school. I didn’t realize he could get it from someone else.

We talked about breast feeding, I told her it was getting better. My mamilla’s have sores on them but it’s not so painful as it had been the last few days. I told her the doctor had told me to put ice on my mamilla’s to ease the pain. Diana said yes and you can also put warm compresses on the breast to help the milk flow.

Diana gave me a sheet on the iron consumption. I should be getting 14mg daily. It’s not very easy unless you were to eat liver everyday and there is no way I could do that.

Diana gave me some other information and a baby passport. A record for vaccinations and weight chart.

Diana didn’t bother to weigh Samantha since she was weighed yesterday. Samantha weighed 6.1 pounds at birth, 5.5 pounds when she was discharged, 6.3 pounds yesterday at the doctors office. Diana said that was good that Samantha has passed her birth weight.

Alex came home just after three o’clock. Mom came in for a few minutes. She was pretty upset, she had gotten a letter from Lana. The inside of their house was badly damaged. The structure of the house is alright. Almost everything in the house has to be thrown out. You just don’t realize how badly damaged people’s houses are in San Francisco. I hope everything is okay with Allison and Davis.

Mom invited us for dinner, she said she had taken a lot of meat out. She thought Holly and Blair would be staying another night.

When Charlie came home I told him we were going there for dinner. Samantha woke up for her feeding. By the time I finished it was time to go to Mom and Dad’s for dinner.

When we got to Mom and Dad’s Samantha didn’t want to sleep. Mom said can’t you give her a soother or something. I said it’s okay. Mom said how are you going to eat your dinner. I said it won’t be the first time. Samantha was still hungry, she wanted to eat while we were eating!

Mom held Samantha after dinner she couldn’t wait to hold her. Mom said she gets heavy after awhile for her size. Alex held Samantha for awhile, first of all he complained he never got a chance. Samantha didn’t wake up at all while Alex held her.

I put Samantha into her crib, she slept until we got ready to go home. I was so tired I was having a hard time keeping awake.

We came home at seven thirty. Alex had his snack and got ready for bed.

Samantha had a feeding at seven thirty and again at ten o’clock. I had slept in between the two feedings.

No tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 23, 1989

Samantha woke up at midnight, four and eight o’clock. After the eight o’clock feeding I had a shower and got dressed.

It sure is something having a baby and moving. I would tell people never to do that. It’s too much of a strain on the woman especially since we don’t have a house yet. Mom, Dad and Charlie have been really good at packing. It would have been easier for me to pack myself.

Mom was very insistent that we move. She’s very worried about us loosing money on the house because of the power lines. There have been no many news items about the lines and how the state are doing studies about them. Of course I wanted to move it’s just not my kind of area to live in. With next door being so weird and hanging out the bathroom window. Charlie said he felt like we were living in Chinatown! Joan and Paul were always asking Mom what they could do to get us to sell our house. In which case Mom would tell me. It was a very stressful time for me. Charlie had to make the decision or I wouldn’t hear the end of it.

Anyways Samantha ate again at noon, four and eight o’clock.

Mom’s been taking Alex to school which is very helpful since I don’t have the energy.

I went to bed around nine o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Bactrim 8:00 p.m. ------- 7:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 7:00 p.m.
Methotrexiate ------- -------- 7:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.33C 8:00 p.m. 36.30C 7:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 22, 1989

Samantha woke up at midnight, four and eight o’clock. After the eight o’clock feeding I had a shower and got dressed.

I have very little energy. I’m having to eat food with iron and drink orange juice. I have to eat liver which makes me barf! Then I sleep quite a lot because I’m so tired.

Samantha sure is a cute little thing. It’s wonderful to have her, we waited so long for her. Just like we waited so long to get our Alex.

Sam ate again at noon, four o’clock and eight o’clock. The I went to bed.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine -------- 1:30 p.m. ------
Mercaptopurine ------- 1:30 p.m. -------

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 21, 1989

Samantha woke up at midnight, four and eight o’clock. After he eight o’clock feeding I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

It’s Allison’s birthday today! I know she thought there was a possibility of Samantha being born on her birthday. I knew that wouldn’t happen, just like I knew I was having a girl!

Alex is feeling better, so hopefully he’ll be able to go back to school tomorrow.

Samantha had feedings at noon, four and eight o’clock.

I went to bed after he eight o’clock feeding.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine ------- ------ 8:00 p.m.

Temperature 35.89C 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 20, 1989

Samantha woke up at twelve o’clock, four o’clock and eight o’clock. After the eight o’clock feeding I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

Charlie is still off, he’s busy packing. Alex is still off from school but he’s getting better so he should be able to go black to school on Monday.

Samantha had her feedings at noon and four o’clock. We ate dinner at five o’clock.

Samantha ate again at eight o’clock. I went to bed after I had gotten her to sleep.

No tests

Medication

Bactrim -------- 12:17 p.m. 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine -------- 12:17 p.m. -------
Prednisone ------ 12:17 p.m. -------

Temperature

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 19, 1989

Samantha had a feeding at midnight, four o’clock and eight o’clock. After her eight o’clock feeding I had a shower, got dress and had my breakfast.

Alex still isn’t back at school yet, he still has his cough. Hopefully he’ll be able to go back to school next week.

I fed Samantha at noon. Charlie has been packing. I wish I could help but there is no way, it’s all I can do to look after myself and Samantha.

Samantha ate again at four o’clock. We ate dinner at five thirty. Alex went to bed after I fed Samantha at eight o’clock. I went to bed shortly afterwards.

No Tests

Medication

Mercaptopurine 10:20 a.m. ------- ------
Prednisone 10:20 a.m. ------- ------

Temperature

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 18, 1989

Samantha woke up at one o’clock, four o’clock and again at eight o’clock. After the eight o’clock feeding I had a shower and got dressed.

I sure feel weak from having Samantha. I don’t remember feeling this way after having Alex. They say every time is different.

I fed Samantha again at noon. Charlie took Alex to the hospital this morning. All he had to have done was his blood test and chemotherapy. Alex had his LP on September 20th. The doctor increased Alex’s medication; Mercaptopurine to ¾ a pill alternating to ½ pill daily, Methotrexiate increased to 3 ½ pills weekly and the other medicine stays the same.

Alex still isn’t going to school yet as he still has his cold.

I had a nap in the afternoon. Samantha ate again at four o’clock. Then it was time for dinner. Charlie has been packing most of the day and he made us dinner.

Samantha had another feeding at eight o’clock. Then we went to bed.

Tests

WBC 5.1
HGB 13.4
Platelets 372
ANC 4029

Medication

Bactrim ------- 10:20 a.m. 7:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ------- 7:00 p.m.
Prednisone ------- -------- 7:00 p.m.

Temperature 36.11C 7:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 17, 1989

Samantha woke up around eleven o’clock. It still takes an hour or so to feed her but at least she goes back to sleep afterwards.

Samantha woke up again at two o’clock, five o’clock and gain at eight o’clock.

After I had put Samantha back to her crib I had a shower, got dressed and had my breakfast.

I have no energy what so ever. I have to rest continually. Alex doesn’t understand why I can’t do things with him. Charlie has to get him his meals and drinks as well as give him his medicine. I don’t do anything and I don’t want to either, the way I feel. I find I have to take a nap some time in the day or else I can’t stay awake at night. I don’t know how I did it with Alex when he was a baby.

Charlie packed most of the day and took stuff down to Mom and Dad’s. Charlie phoned Mom to tell her not to cook dinner we would bring a take out down.

Charlie dropped us off while he went to the restaurant. We ate dinner at five thirty. Dad seemed to really enjoy the food, it’s probably been a long time since he has had Chinese food.

We stayed until seven o’clock. I was feeling really tired, I could hardly keep my eyes open.

Alex had his snack and got ready for bed. I also had my snack and went to bed.

Samantha had her last feeding of the day at en o’clock and went to sleep again.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup 8:00 a.m. ------- 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------- ----- 4:30 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 16, 1989

I woke up at two o’clock to feed Samantha. It still takes an hour or so to feed her. I went back to sleep and woke up again at six o’clock. After I had feed Samantha I went back to sleep until breakfast came. After breakfast I had a shower and got dressed. I dried my hair in the shampoo room.

I met Dr. C on the way back to my room. She said how do you feel about going home today. I said I feel alright to go home. She said Charlie didn’t seem too thrilled about it. I said my parents said they could come and get me. Dr. C said can you get them to stay with you? I said yes that should be okay.

I told Dr. C about it stinging when I went to the bathroom. That I had give a urine sample this morning. Dr. C said she would get someone to take a blood sample to check my iron.

Dr. C went to look at Samantha. She was gone for quite awhile. When she came back she said I don’t want you to be alarmed. Samantha has a Mongolian spot on her bottom. It might look like a bruise but it’s not. Dr. C said she looks really good. I’ll prepare the paper work for you to go home. I don’t want you to do any work. I want you to rest as much as possible. I said I wouldn’t do anything.

Dr. C said to phone her if I had any problems. She said to come into her office in one week with the baby.

I phoned Mom and Dad when the doctor left. I talked to Dad and told him I was being discharged today. Discharge time is eleven o’clock but they could come any time. Dad said they had woken up late and were just having breakfast.

I went to the nursery to get Samantha. Not long after we got back to our room I fed her.

I asked the nurse when I was having a blood test as I was going home. She said you’re going home today? I said yes. She said she would check into it and she wanted to check my stitches.

Mom, Dad and Alex came up while I was talking to the nurse. We had to wait awhile before the nurse came to tell us I could go any time as everything was all ready for me to go.

Dad said to me you sure aren’t like me I was already dressed when your mother came to get me. Mom said you were probably dressed when you got off the phone from me! I told them the nurse had wanted to check my stitches that was why I hadn’t gotten dressed yet.

A women came to take blood before the nurse told me I could go home.

I got dressed while Mom took the flowers down to the car. I packed everything up. Mom came back upstairs then we took the diabetic machine down to Ann. Mom and Ann came up together. Ann said she wanted to see the baby before we left. She asked me if my diabetes had left. I said yes everything looks okay. Then she asked me if I would be doing it again. I said I don’t know I had heard the second time around the diabetes stays. She said that wasn’t true, only in 2% does that happen. If you decided to become pregnant again we should see you right from the beginning. Ann said well I better let you go before the baby gets too hot. I thanked her for all her help.

We came home, Mom picked up a few things for the baby then we went to their house. Mom made us lunch. Samantha woke up while we were having lunch. Mom held her while I finished eating then I fed her. Samantha went back to sleep and we watched TV.

Charlie came home at four o’clock. I had left a message on the answering machine to come down to Mom and Dad’s for dinner after he had a shower. Charlie phoned and Mom told him we had come home at noon and for him to come down for dinner.

We ate dinner at five o’clock. After dinner we watched TV.

Ever since I came out of the hospital, Alex wants to hold Samantha and touch her. He can’t seem to leave her alone. The problem is Alex still has his cold and cough. I’m trying to tell him in a nice way that he shouldn’t get too close to her and not to breathe on her. It always ends up that Alex gets mad and takes it the wrong way.

I had fed Samantha awhile after we had dinner.

We came home around seven o’clock. I put Samantha into her crib. Alex had a snack and got ready for bed. I had my snack and went to bed as well.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup 8:30 ------- 8:00 p.m.
Bactria ------- 1:30 p.m. 11:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------- 7:00 p.m.

Temperature 35.94C 11:45 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 15, 1989

Last night I went down to the special care nursery. I talked to Dr. O, he said Samantha could go upstairs in a few hours. I was sure happy to hear that. This was around ten o’clock last night. Dr. O came back to me later. He said are you sure of your dates. I said yes I am. He said did you have insulin when you were diabetic. I said no. He said so you controlled it by diet and exercise. I said yes I did.

I came upstairs at eleven o’clock and went back to bed. I kept on expecting Samantha to come upstairs. I really didn’t sleep well as I was waiting for her.

At six o’clock I went downstairs. The nurse said Dr. O still wanted Samantha’s blood sugar checked. She also said that Dr. O thought Samantha could go upstairs this morning. Dr. O would be in around nine o’clock. He had been at the hospital until two o’clock this morning.

I went back upstairs and went back to sleep. I woke up around eight o’clock. I had my breakfast then I asked the nurse if it was okay if I had a shower. She said I could have had one yesterday if I had wanted to. After I had my shower I realized I didn’t have my brush. Charlie had taken my purse home which had my brush in it. I asked the women I was in with if she knew were I could blow my hair dry. She said there’s a shampoo room at the other end, down the hall.

I had to wait awhile before I could use it. Last time I was in I didn’t know they had a room for drying your hair. But then I felt really bad last time

I asked again if Samantha had come up. The nurse said didn’t you already ask the nursery. I said no I didn’t. She seemed rather annoyed that I was asking. She asked in the nursery, they said she wasn’t there yet. She phoned, they told her after the next feeding they would bring her up.

So here I am still waiting. By eleven o’clock she still wasn’t up so I asked again. It was a different nurse, she said why don’t you go downstairs and see what happened.

I went down again. Just as I’m washing up the nurse was wheeling Samantha out. I said are you taking her upstairs. She said yes are Nancy? I said yes, she said you can come upstairs with me. I signed back in while the nurse took Samantha to the nursery. I came into the nursery. The nursery nurse explained about the supplies she said the other nurse was filling the basinet but after that it would be up to me. She said first I have a few things to do before I can let you have her. They said I was very anxious, they would be too if they had waited so long.

I took her back to my room. She slept for a long time. The nurse said usually the first twenty four hours they sleep for long periods of time. She said don’t let her sleep for more than five hours without feeding.

I had to wake Samantha up around two o’clock. It’s pretty hard to get her to eat. Once she was awake she cried quite a bit and it took an hour or more to get her to eat.

Samantha slept all the way through dinner. Charlie came up in the afternoon. He watched Samantha while I laid down. I couldn’t sleep as Samantha cried on and off. My milk isn’t in yet so she’s probably not getting much. I went to the nursery to get Samantha a bottle of water hopefully it’ll fill her up. After Samantha had the water she went to sleep.

Mom, Dad and Alex came up around four o’clock. I told Alex, Samantha had left him a present in the basinet. Alex was pretty excited, he said tell Samantha thank you for the present. I said I would when she wakes up.

Charlie had left just after they arrived. Dad took a lot of pictures of Samantha, she slept the whole time they were there. They only stayed for half an hour and left.

While I was having my dinner Samantha made a few noises and went back to sleep.

I woke her up after I had eaten. It took me an hour or more to get her to feed. It looks like it’s going to take her awhile to catch on.

Dr. C had come in the afternoon. I told her my Mom had seen a sign by the nurses station that said 48 hours discharge. Dr. C said your Mom’s very observant, I didn’t see any sign. Let me go check it out.

When Dr. C came back she said they put that sign up when they are busy. She said we’ll see how you are doing but the department head can over rule the doctors decision. I told her about the gushes I was having and they seem to be okay after I had voided.

Dr. C asked us what we had named the baby. We told her Samantha. She said so you got your wish after all you’ve been through.

Charlie came back around seven o’clock. He’s looking pretty tired. I had taken Samantha back to the nursery.

From seven until eight o’clock it’s visiting hours. People were waiting outside the doors. When the doors were opened it was like a whole herd coming through. Charlie and I walked around the floor. I phoned Shirley but nobody was home. Then I phoned Marla to tell her. She was pretty excited she said now your are a complete family.

Charlie left after eight o’clock. I phoned Alex at Mom and Dad’s. He’s sleeping overnight there, Charlie’s going to work tomorrow.

I feed Samantha before I went to sleep. I think I was a sleep around eleven o’clock.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.

Diagnosis: Leukemia; October 14, 1989

*May not be suitable for all readers, my post is about my pregnancy and delivery of the baby*

Alex slept pretty good last night. He did cough during the night but I didn’t give him any cough medicine as he stopped after a few minutes.

At seven o’clock, Alex was coughing, he woke me up. I got up to go to the bathroom. I felt fine before I went to the bathroom but when I finished I didn’t feel right. I had some show when I went to the bathroom. I had some pain in the pelvic area but it was far apart in time.

I decided to have a shower first to see if I still felt the same. By the time I had a shower, got dressed and dried my hair I felt like this was it. Time to have the baby.

I told Charlie we should get ready for the hospital. I never saw him get up so fast before. He quickly got dressed and told me to phone the doctor, Mom and Dad.

I talked to Dad, told him we were getting ready to go to the hospital and would bring Alex down. Dad said okay.

DR. C phoned, I told her I felt like it was time and told her my symptoms. She asked me how far apart my contractions were. I said I hadn’t timed them yet, I had just gotten up. I thought maybe three minutes a part. She said she would meet us at the hospital.

Mom phoned to tell Charlie she would come and get Alex.

Charlie was running around the house collecting everything. I went down to the car. Charlie went outside with Alex. Mom came shortly after I had gotten in the car. While Charlie got Alex into the car, Mom came over to the car. She said how are you doing? I told her okay. She said how far apart are your contractions. I said a few minutes apart. Mom said well you had better get going.

When we left Mom, Charlie roared down the street. I told him to slow down we weren’t in that much of a hurry. Charlie said I thought you said we had to get to the hospital. I said yes we have to get to the hospital but I want to get there is one piece. Charlie slowed down and I asked him for his watch so I could time my contractions. I thought they were quite close together but they were about eight minutes apart.

We got to the hospital after eight o’clock. We went to admitting and I told the woman I was having contractions. She told me to sit at the second booth. Charlie was getting annoyed with her. He said she was taking too long. I did sit at the booth for quite awhile before she came to take the information. Once she had taken the information she said I’ll take you upstairs. Then when she went to take me upstairs she stopped to answer the phone. Charlie said I don’t believe it. You could have the baby right here!

I was taken upstairs in a wheel chair and I continued to do my breathing. It really helps to do the breathing with each contraction.

Once we were upstairs a nurse came to take us to our labour room. We went into labour room six. The nurse asked me to take everything off and get into a gown. I had to ask Charlie to help me as it’s impossible for me to bend over at this point. The baby’s head is so low. I have to keep on going to the bathroom. I’ve had two bowel movements already and it’s only eight thirty. My body must be getting ready for the baby to come.

Dr. C arrived at the hospital before us. She’s really determined to delivery this baby which is nice, since Dr. W wasn’t there for the delivery of Alex. She said she would come back after the nurse had prepared me.

The nurse put me onto the non stress test. It showed that my contractions were between eight and ten minutes apart. The nurse took my blood pressure which was 130/80. Then she took my temperature and my pulse. She asked me questions about my pregnancy. I told her I became diabetic and I’m on a salt free diet because of my blood pressure and my feet had swollen. She asked me if I had come in contact with German measles or some other illness. I told her no.

Dr. C came in to examine me. The nurse had already checked to see how far along I was in the dilation of the cervix. She told the doctor the cervix wasn’t dilated yet but it was very thin. Dr. C said for me to walk up and down the hall. She said the force of gravity would help speed things up.

Charlie and I walked up and down the hall. The other patients looked at me rather strangely but there was nothing I could do.

DR. C said when the baby was born he/she would have to go to the special care nursery. It’s the hospitals’ policy when the baby comes from a diabetic mother. Dr. C said she didn’t like it but that was their policy.

I saw a obstetrician and he asked me questions about my pregnancy. Then he said do you think you’ll have this before noon. I said yes I think so!

Dr. C was in and out of the room throughout the whole time. We met her husband who was up to give her some medical notes and a dictation machine.

She said he thinks he’s deprived but he isn’t. it seemed to us that he might be a doctor as well.

I kept on walking up and down the hall. The nurse said I should have a shower. First of all they had been trying to get me to have an enema but I didn’t want one. By noon I had three or four bowel movements so I didn’t see any point.

So I had a really hot shower. The contractions started to come at three minutes apart. After I got out of the shower, Dr. C checked me and she said I was about three or four centimetres dilated. It sure is painful when they check to see how far dilated you are.

Dr. C said you really amaze me. She asked Charlie if he could tell when I was having a contraction. He said no he didn’t know. I said I tell him to check the time every time I have a contraction. Then she asked if I was having a contraction. I said I just finished one. She said you really amaze me. I said why should I be yelling and screaming. Dr. C said if only all women could go through labour like you. I didn’t feel screaming would help me at all.

By two o’clock my contraction were at two minutes apart. At this time it was very hard to keep in control. The pain from the contraction was so intense it was almost doubling me over. I had by this time five bowel movements. I told Charlie to tell the nurse how far apart my contractions were. He actually wanted me to tell her but I said no. I was in extreme pain so there wasn’t any reason why he couldn’t do it.

Charlie had gotten a Charlie horse at the time we arrived at the hospital. The whole time we were there he had it!

Dr. C checked me again in between contractions. She said she could stretch the cervix to ten centimetres it was so thin. She said it’s really amazing. I asked her how many centimetres I was. She said I was nine centimetres and not to push just yet.

They wheeled me down to the case room while the doctors and Charlie got dressed.

It seemed to me like it was taking them forever to set everything up. I was having a heck of a time breathing and the urge to push was so strong that I couldn’t hang on any longer. I told them I couldn’t hang on any longer. They said it’s okay Nancy your almost there. I thought who cares I’m pushing anyways. After I had pushed with the contraction, Dr. C said with the next contraction you can push.

It was funny during the delivery of this baby I held onto Charlie’s hand very tightly. It was like I had to get strength from him I couldn’t do it by myself.

With the next contraction I pushed and then our Samantha was born. Dr. C said you have a daughter. She was really purple when she was born and had white stuff on her head.

The nurse took her and cleaned her up first before giving her to me. Dr. C said well you got what you wanted. I said I knew it was going to be a girl.

Dr. C took her from me. She checked her and weighted her. I was really surprised, she only weighs 6 pounds one ounce. I never thought I would have such a small baby. Dr. Be thought the baby should be around seven pounds.

The obstetrician stitched me up. Dr. C explained that they had decided not to do a episiotomy. She said I had ripped but it wasn’t too bad. I had told her I had a episiotomy with the delivery of Alex and it had pulled for weeks afterwards. It seemed to take forever for the doctor to stitch me up. It must have been at least half an hour.

The nurse took Samantha to the special care nursery. Charlie said he would stay with me but Dr. C told him to go with them so he would know where to go. Charlie said oh okay then.

While Charlie was gone Dr. C explained what the doctor was doing. That first of all he stitches the first layer then he has to stitch the top layer.

Dr. C showed me the placenta. It looks like a big piece of liver. It’s really amazing when you think how it supplies the baby with food. The whole concept of conception and childbirth is totally amazing. We tend to forget once the baby grows into a young child.

Charlie came back to the case room. Dr. C asked us if we had a name for the baby. I said we hadn’t discussed names yet. Of course I had already decided upon Samantha if the baby was a girl, so I was pretty set in my way!

When Dr. C left for a short period I said to Charlie I wanted our daughter to be called Samantha. Charlie said okay but what about he Chinese name. I said I’ll leave that up to you. You decided upon Alex’s Chinese name.

By this time the obstetrician had left. We had thanked him and he congratulated us.

One of the nurses talked about the size of the babies. She said it’s better to have small babies. She thought people who have large babies like ten pound babies miss out. They really have three month old babies but they aren’t able to do the same things as a three month old baby. I said I wouldn’t want to deliver a baby that big. The nurses and doctors thought that was pretty funny. The nurse said I don’t blame you.

Dr. C said she was leaving and would see me tomorrow morning. We both thanked her for everything she had done and for staying all day. She said that was okay she was able to do her medical writing.

The nurse gave me a sponge bath. I didn’t have one when I delivered Alex. I was really impressed at how good my care was. I thought last time was good and now this delivery was even better.

The nurse took me to the recovery room. She said I might be there for an hour or so depending upon when a porter could take me upstairs.

I had a different nurse while I was in the recovery room. She took my blood pressure, pulse and my temperature. She said she had called a porter so it would be maybe an hour depending on how busy they were.

It was no time before a porter came actually there were two of them. We stopped at the special care nursery so we could see Samantha before I went upstairs to the ward.

When we got there she was crying. The nurse put her in my arms and she stopped right away. She’s such a sweet little thing and so tiny. The nurse took her back to her basinet and she started to cry again.

I was taken up to the ward and put into a semi private ward. A nurse came in to check my blood pressure, temperature and my pulse. Then she checked my stitches, pushed down on my stomach to check the blood flow. She said there were gushes of blood coming which wasn’t good. She said she would come back alter to check on me again.

Mom, Dad and Alex came up to see us. Alex brought me a vase of flowers and it had a bear that said I © MOM. Mom and Dad also brought me flowers and the baby a present. It’s a light that attaches to the crib, a really good idea.

Alex, Mom and Charlie went down to the special care nursery. Dad stayed with me while they went downstairs.

The nurse came back in, she pulled the curtain around the bed. She checked me again, I told her when I go up or down in the bed I feel a gush. She said I had a clot, she was going to page the doctor to start an I.V. she said maybe when you go to the bathroom it’ll pass out. I said I think I can go right now. She said you’re sure you’re up to it? I said yes I’m okay. The nurse helped me to the bathroom she told me to use the rinse after I had gone and to use the special paper not to use toilet paper. She said I’ll be right outside the door.

I got back into bed and the nurse checked me again. She said it looks like it’ll be okay.

Before the nurse had come to check me, Dad said so we’ve got number 9. I said I wonder if you’ll get a number 10. Dad said Jeff and Martina were still trying but Jeff has had trouble with his diabetes so maybe that’s why they haven’t succeeded. Dad said Victoria wants them to have a girl because they have two grandsons already. Dad said he would like to see them have a boy since Orion is the only one to carry on the name. I said I wonder what Jada and Orion would think.

Mom, Alex and Charlie came up. Charlie took Dad downstairs to see Samantha. Alex said she sure is tiny. It seemed he couldn’t believe how small she was.

When Dad came back upstairs they left. Alex had laid on the bed with me and gave me a hug. He said he missed me.

Finally I was able to get something to eat. I was so hungry the food really tasted good. The last time I ate was my snack last night. I was allowed juice every hour but I wasn’t allowed lunch. I didn’t have breakfast as my stomach was upset.

A nurse came around seven o’clock to give me pain killers. She stood there while I tried to down them. I just cannot swallow pills that well.

I asked her if I could go downstairs to see Samantha. She said yes but I must sign out. She said she would get a wheel chair for me.

Charlie took me downstairs, he said we have to wash and put a gown on.

The nurse said she had just finished feeding her. Samantha’s blood sugar was 2.3 when she was born. The last test showed it was around 3. The nurse said the formula helps to bring up Samantha’s blood sugar.

I held her for quite awhile, the nurse gave me a bottle to feed her but she didn’t want it.

After about half an hour I gave Samantha to Charlie. I found it really hard sitting there. It was better after birth pains which are almost as bad as contractions.

We came up around seven thirty. I phoned Alex and talked to him before he went to bed. He was really interested in what Samantha was doing.

I phoned Shirley but there wasn’t anyone home.

Charlie left around eight o’clock. I did crossword puzzle then I went to sleep.

No Tests

Medication

Cough syrup ------ 2:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.
Mercaptopurine ------ ------ 8:00 p.m.