Ma & Pa

New Year's Eve

2009-12-31T06:56:00.002+11:00

Today is the last day of 2009 and the end of a difficult year.New Year's Day is our wedding anniversary. I will be spending it with Surrey by sorting out our bedroom and making sense of all his clothes and treasures. The children will join me for part of the day and we'll be able to share the usual bottle of Veuve Cliquot champagne.

New Year's Day is also the day I will begin my new journey through a different life on my own. As part of this I am starting a new blog. Click here to find it.

The great cleanup begins

2009-12-29T16:44:00.002+11:00

After a rainy day yesterday, lunch with Desley, Jack, Cath and Ed and the delivery of my new washing machine the two boys had a great time decorating the washing machine box for me. What a great cubby house.

Today was a fine day and Geoff and I decided it was just perfect for doing a bit of yard sorting. The two dinghies were taken up to Spencer just before Christmas which left us with a small shelter/car port to clear ready for some pallets as flooring.

We had two visitors that were most welcome... a dragon fly ...

and a blue tongue lizard which looked very healthy.

We ended up with the paving finished around the new ramp, and all the stones moved to the back of the now empty boat shelter.

We cleared out the boat shelter ready for the pallets.

And we now have some recycling to be done and waste to be removed. If you have any use for metal...

Old fuel or the jerry cans holding it...

Or some old empty gas bottles and more old oil etc ...

then please let me know. I will be ringing various waste removalists to come very soon so please contact me asap if you can use any of these.

What a Christmas!

2009-12-26T16:04:00.005+11:00

Wow! Although Christmas this year certainly sounded familiar in its planning - midnight service, breakfast with the grandsons, lunch at Desley's, that is where the similarity ended.

Having gone to bed after midnight my day started before 6am to be at Ellen and Rod's for present opening and breakfast by 6:30am. The present opening was stalled by time to play with the fantastic new extended track that Santa had time to set up all through the kitchen and along to the boy's room when he visited.

Once Pauline and Alan, Adrian and Geoff and Jen arrived it was time for present opening. What a grand affair and the boys even took it in turns to open their presents so that everyone could watch and enjoy the fun.

By the end of this and the full English breakfast cooked on the barbeque everyone was exhausted and had a bit of a collapse to watch a new DVD and settle for a while. I even heard that all four of Ellen's family had a nap in the afternoon.

It was then off to Desley and Jack's for Geoff, Jen and myself where we were treated to more present opening. This began as a more adult occasion ...

... but it was certainly no more subdued than the morning session with the boys. What fun we had!

No! Presents were not being thrown across the room even though it looks as though that might have happened. A delicious lunch followed with all sorts of contributions from everyone. Gram thoroughly enjoyed herself. No, she did not share in the wine even though this photo might lead you to believe she did.

Cousins relaxed together sharing the fun.

A quiet hour or so followed lunch but then it was then time for Desley's 'project' idea. We summoned Gram back from her place (even in the rain). Three generations of girls spent the afternoon scanning in old family pictures while Gram told us all about each one.

Then it was time for leftovers for dinner (yum!) and to collapse in front of TV. There were actually quite a few shows worth watching to wind up such a great day.
I then slept over at Desley and Jack's and after a slow rise we collected Gram to continue the 'project' work. It is not finished but by lunch we were ready to stop. After a quick lunch at Gram's I then came home and settled in for a very quiet evening.

It was a great Christmas day and certainly one I will remember fondly for a long time.

It's the night before Christmas

2009-12-24T07:04:00.004+11:00

I thought the photo taken at our Christmas in July this year was a beaut one to put here. Hope you like it.

Life's been chaotic so for those to whom I have forgotten to send our Christmas Newsletter I add it here. It is a DIY card so you need to click on each image then print them back to back to fill an A4 page. The page can then be folded in four to create a card. I am sorry if I missed you in my list. The list became so large this year with all those people who were such a great support while Surrey was ill. So please forgive me and keep in touch.

Underhill mourns

2009-12-23T11:22:00.006+11:00

Well this is the first time the new car has visited Underhill so a new view from the shed rather than the familiar view of the Hilux. It was a good drive. Evelyn came with me but we were greeted by a very dry block. It did rain all the time we were there, just light and sprinkley. The temperature at midday was 13 C after a temperature the day before in Sydney of 42 C!

We spent some time sorting out the caravan and thinking about how to arrange things in the dining/sitting area. We really need some new-old carpet about 3m x 6m or part thereof so if anyone knows of some then please let me know. Our kitchen cupboard is also falling apart so if you find a free-standing kitchen style cupboard we'd like that too.

The ground is bare and the grass is low. The rain made it even sadder. Our soil carbon count must be really low at the moment. The dog yards are well eaten by the wallabies and wombats that have made holes in the fences. At least they are well mown. One job soon will be to fix those fences. All our attempts to date have been in vain.

The dams are low but not as low as they have been.

The berry yard looks good but there is no fruit set this year. Our tiny Christmas trees will be big enough next year for me to pick one perhaps. I did pick one last year so that Surrey could enjoy one of the trees he had planted. It did look good at home.

If you are interested in coming down to Underhill I would love it. It is unsafe to actually do any work down there if I am on my own as there is no phone reception or help closeby. It is also always nice to have company for the drive. Just let me know via email and I can send you the dates so you can choose.

Tree Planting for Surrey

2009-12-19T06:27:00.002+11:00

A tree (native, of course!) will be planted in the Royal Botanic Gardens in memory of Surrey on Friday 8 January 2010.

Family, friends and colleagues are invited to attend this.

Time: 10.30 am

Place: just NE of the big bamboo patch (Bed 141) on the upper slope of Lawn 59 (to the south-east of Government House grounds) - see http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/101766/GARDEN-BEDS-MAP.pdf if you are not sure of the location.

You are invited to come back to the Herbarium for morning tea in the Caley Seminar Room after the planting.

For catering purposes, please do tell Betty or Karen if you are coming.

The final files

2009-12-18T16:59:00.005+11:00

After the funeral service Surrey was buried at Woronora Cemetery on the Casuarina Lawn, Plot no. 1381. As yet there is no plaque but I am assured one will be created.

Below I have included Andrew's Talk (our Minister). What an appropriate talk for us all. Thank you Andrew.

Surrey's Music and Slideshows

2009-12-15T20:04:00.005+11:00

Lots of people have asked me for the slide shows from the funeral so at last they are ready to view here.

First there is the shorter version played during the service. The music accompanying this one is Smile (written by Charlie Chaplin and sung by Nat King Cole).

Then a longer version with added slides and different music played as people left the church. Many people missed this one. The first song here is very appropriate - Flower on the Water by John Williamson. This is followed by Down to the River to Pray. Water played a large part in Surrey's life.

The music at the beginning of the service was a selection of songs from Grahame Connor's North album.

Surrey's Funeral Service

2009-12-10T09:48:00.004+11:00

I have included in this post the Order of Service (with corrected spelling), and eulogies by Ellen and Karen read at the service. Just click on the images and they should appear in a separate window ready to read or print. In another post I will include the slide show of photos of Surrey that was played at the end of the service as many people were not inside the church to see it.

Farewell Surrey

2009-12-08T07:08:00.010+11:00

Thank you to all those who helped make Surrey's funeral such a moving event. At the end of the day which did not really end till about 5 pm I breathed a sigh and said to my cousin staying with me 'What a great day!' How can you say that about the day of your husband's funeral? However, it really was! He would have enjoyed it all. There were plenty of tears but also lots of laughter and people had plenty of time to catch up with those they may not have seen for many years.

The flowers on the coffin were magnificent - grasses and water lilies! Gathered the day before and even that morning by a few gallant botanical people and displayed in a beautiful wreath. Thank you Karen for managing that and thank you to all those who were part of that process, I don't even know some of you.

Andrew (our minister at St Cuthbert's) led a beautiful service. Thank you Andrew for weaving such a beautiful story, so meaningful to all present.

Ellen (on behalf of the family) and Karen (on behalf of the botanical community) both gave very moving eulogies. Geoff and Rod and Ellen compiled music and slides to remind us all of Surrey's lovely smile and 'crinkly blue eyes'.

Ellen and I produced the order of service leaflet (even misspelling Surrey's middle name Laurence after at least six edits) and Andrew organised the readings and printing of the leaflet. We have some over and will be sending them to those we know would have been there if they could. If you would particularly like one please email me.

Thank you Robyn and Ken for your readings.

White Lady Funerals ensured that the whole program flowed seamlessly.

Friends from St Cuthberts managed the morning tea wonderfully (especially when we had about 250 people to serve to). Thank you to Betty S, Ken, Robyn, Suzanne, Joy, and thank you also to Betty H and Joy C for the flowers in the church. They were beautiful.

Thank you Pauline, Rod and Ellen for sourcing all the drinks and food. Thank you also to those quiet little elves who supplied sandwiches. I don't even know who you were!

Then there was the gathering at our home of all those in the hall when clearing up began. There was more laughter, tears and chatter for some hours. We had various transport runs that left at intervals throughout the afternoon - airport, Hurstville station, Merrylands, Bondi Junction. Thanks to those who took care of all the drinks, lunch, transport, watering of flowers and garden, air conditioning ... Thank you to Leonie for being my shadow and ensuring that things happened smoothly at home both before and after the funeral.

Thank you also to all those who have supported Surrey and I throughout the year with emails, blog comments, cards, letters, flowers, donations to various charities, visits, prayers, special personal ceremonies in distant places, food parcels and company. I love you all for your kindness. Surrey, to the end, was gob-smacked by the thoughtfulness of you all as was I.

Thank you all for the large and small parts you played in celebrating Surrey's life!

Surrey's funeral

2009-11-27T15:35:00.006+11:00

10 am
Monday 7 December 2009
St Cuthbert's Church
34 Park Rd, South Carlton

There will be a gathering immediately following in the church grounds.

We look forward to seeing you there.

In lieu of flowers please send a donation to one of the following:
Boystown
Sylvanvale
Calvary Health Care Sydney, PO Box 261, Kogarah, 1485
St Cuthbert's Church

Peace at last!

2009-11-26T15:15:00.005+11:00

Surrey passed away at noon today. I was with him at the time and he died peacefully.

All the family are now together. Thank you all for your good wishes, prayers and support over a very difficult year for us all.

I will put up another posting when details about the funeral have been decided.

Surrey's life is fading fast

2009-11-26T09:34:00.002+11:00

Overnight Surrey's condition has deteriorated even more. They are trying to find a single room for us. I think it most appropriate that only immediate family visit at this stage as Surrey seems to get quite frustrated that he cannot communicate with us.

Thank you all for your support, prayers and positive vibes. I am receiving the benefits of them all. If anyone can send a good night's sleep (unmedicated) I would really appreciate it. I guess it will come eventually.

Surrey continues in decline

2009-11-23T07:13:00.003+11:00

Unfortuntately Surrey's condition continues to deteriorate. He spends all day and night sleeping. He is woken for a bedbath and mealtime. He chooses not to eat any of the pureed food that comes but is eating the fruit salad I take him and an occasional mouthful of chocolate or biscuit.

He can have visitors but usually sleeps through the whole visit. Sometimes his speech is a little slurred and difficult to understand. He is just exhausted, probably as a combined result of no food, medications, the clot and the cancer itself.

At least one of Ellen, Geoff, Rod and Jen and I visit each day and on Saturday he even smiled when visited by Alex and Luke. I try to visit for breakfast and dinner time so that I can give him something to eat and drink but the nursing staff also ensure he is fed if no-one is there to help.

The staff at the hospital are all attentive and caring and I am very happy that he is there. It gives me peace of mind to be able to leave him in their good hands to get a few things done at home.

Surrey's little excursion

2009-11-20T06:21:00.004+11:00

It turns out that it was not a CT scan but an xray of lungs.

When I got to the hospital yesterday evening I asked the nurses if I could speak to someone about the results and forthwith a doctor was summoned. She explained that when Surrey was admitted they could not hear as much air in the left lung as the right lung. This did not change so they xrayed fearing pneumonia or collapsed lung. No, the results show a tiny bit of fluid around the lung but not enough to drain and not a real worry. He actually had something show up on a CT scan months ago but it had disappeared by the next CT scan.

Surrey is now back in his room but very tired and is back to his "... sometimes I just sits" phase. I will go in this morning to help him with his breakfast as I usually do.

Today is his last official day of work and tomorrow will officially be a retired gentleman.

Surrey is going on an outing tomorrow

2009-11-18T18:16:00.001+11:00

Surrey is being taken to have a CT scan early tomorrow morning and this could, of course, take all day as he has to go back to St George Hospital to have it. It is probably not a good day to visit because it will also take all his energy for the day.

Surrey is now at Calvary Hospital

2009-11-17T06:28:00.003+11:00

Calvary Hospital is a public convalescent and palliative care hospital. It is a little further south from St George Hospital, on Rocky Point Road. The phone number is 9553 3111. There is only limited parking but street parking (free) is available so if you are coming you should wear walking shoes and sunhats. This hospital is MUCH better! Clean and airy, carpet in the corridors, quite and calm.

Surrey was exhausted yesterday but already they are managing his diet (a special stent diet that even I could bear to eat!) and today the physio will come to start his movement regime. He has an electrically controlled bed so I don't have to keep manually lifting and lowering his head. The doctor on duty has already examined him and says she will come again today and the nurse on duty has noted that he may need help eating. They already know he needs help moving at all.

Let's hope this allows him to recouperate a little and that he can get to move enough to be able to come home. However, it might take a few weeks.

Visiting hours don't exist but as it is so quiet and calm they ask that visitors are quiet and do not gather in crowds, or after about 8pm. Immediate family can visit 24/7 so I might be able to manage one or two days at work occasionally by visiting early and then at dinner time.

Surrey has not moved yet

2009-11-13T06:43:00.004+11:00

Surrey saw his oncologist for the first time yesterday who said that he had been very ill (hence the need to stay in the public hospital with its ability for constant monitoring and on-call medical help). He says that Surrey needs three weeks in a convalescent hospital (but he has still not been moved!). Once he can walk again he can come home.

So it looks as though we are in for the long haul. I am spending most of my time at the hospital and then falling asleep in front of TV at night. I am hoping that once he is in a more stable bed that things will settle down a bit and he can concentrate on convalescence. Thank you to all those friends who keep ensuring that I am fed well and who are looking after me both mentally and spiritually. We can certainly feel the 'bubble of love' around us both.

As soon as Surrey is in a more stable place I will give you the details on this blog of hospital name and details. Until then it is really important that if you are visiting you ring the St George Hospital on 9113 1111 to see if he is still there. Visiting hours at this hospital are 10-12.30 and 3-8 pm.

Surrey may doze off while you are visiting so asks that you not be insulted by that. He spends most of his time dozing and cannot even turn over easily let alone sit up or get out of bed for anything. He is absolutely bed ridden until he gets some energy back. He is now on a diet with a bit more choice and we are all encouraging him to eat and drink a little more each day.

Retirement Gift Presentation

2009-11-12T07:09:00.003+11:00

We are sorry that the large Retirement Gift Presentation party had to be called off for tomorrow. However, the gift was presented to Surrey by Karen and Leonie yesterday.

Thank you very much to all who contributed images and messages to this huge book about Surrey's 40 years of botanical (and other) contributions. We were all very touched.

By absolute chance Roger and Janice, Ellen and Geoff were also there and were able to enjoy the tiny celebration.

Thank you all.

Where's Wally (aka Surrey)?

2009-11-12T07:06:00.004+11:00

When I left Surrey last night he was in a different ward (his fourth in five days!). There is also a chance that he could be moved to another hospital - apparently he is pre-admitted to St George Private but it might be to Calvary instead!?!?

All this means that before you visit him you need to check up where he is and what the visiting hours and other restrictions are.

Surrey update

2009-11-11T07:12:00.003+11:00

Last night when I left the hospital Surrey was improving slightly so that now he is able to stay awake (but only lying down) for an hour or so before he dozes off again. He is unable to sit up by himself so needs lots of people and lifting devices to achieve even the most simple of movements.

He is a little better in himself but is really not yet ready to come home. My task today is to convince various doctors that coming home in this state is not an option as I would need a full-time nurse at least to cope.

Surrey's hospital stay is extended

2009-11-09T19:22:00.007+11:00

Surrey's condition has deteriorated significantly. He is to remain in St. George Public Hospital with no immediate plans to return home. He is currently in the Medical Assessment Unit, however may be moved to an oncology ward shortly.

He is still very tired and most of his time is spent dozing. He is being treated for the blood clots and other symptoms are being alleviated.

Ellen, Geoff and I are visiting him as often as we can so may not be home to answer phones.

Surrey is in Hospital

2009-11-08T06:18:00.004+11:00

Surrey woke up yesterday with his right leg extremely swollen. The diagnosis after ultrasound is a large clot in his groin.

After a whole day in the emergency department (even after going by ambulance) he was admitted to St George Public hospital last night. Today I am hoping to rant and rave enough to have him moved to St George Private where his doctors and all his records are.

It did not look as though he was going to have a very restful night and he did not get any food or drink during the day so hopefully they will also have him on a drip of some sort and feed him this morning. Again we'll have the food problems because hospitals just don't get it. I think I'll take him some supplies today to tempt him to eat. It seems so strange to be trying to tempt Surrey to eat!

I'll keep posting updates to let you all know how things progress.

A Ramp at last!

2009-11-05T08:11:00.004+11:00

Some of you may remember the back entrance to our house. Paving, and two steps to get in. And a kiddy trap to open the door and get out.

Unfortunately I forgot to get some real before images with the pot plants in their right places and all looking tidy.

This photo shows the building of the ramp to allow Surrey to get in and out of the house in his wheelchair. We have been completely housebound for a few weeks. After lots of help moving all the bricks and paving work could begin.

The ramp was completed on Tuesday afternoon and the initial testing was done Wednesday morning to get Surrey to hospital supposedly to change his picc line dressing. Six hours later I brought him home, both trips in wheelchair accessible taxis to avoid the getting in and out of cars. He had needed a drip for rehydration because they could not find any blood for his regular blood tests. Then we enjoyed the 'official' opening of the ramp with Roger and Janice (and Bob the dog) and Ellen, Rod and the boys. A great time was had by all and Surrey eventually went to bed exhausted at about 6pm.

This morning I have started the paving at the base of the ramp to make it a little more aesthetically pleasing as well as wheelchair friendly.

Come and test out our ramp for yourselves if you like.

More bricks moved

2009-11-01T12:10:00.004+11:00

Thanks to Evelyn and Greg we now have a large brick plinth made from all the spare bricks taken up from the path where the ramp is going. With all those out of the way the builders will be able to finish off the ramp tomorrow I hope. After that it will just be making it pretty. It is so hot today I'll just do a bit of busy work in the shade this afternoon.

Job done!

2009-10-28T15:20:00.002+11:00

Thanks Rod and Adam for your help moving bricks and pavers. We are now ready for the ramp.

Help needed

2009-10-28T09:48:00.005+11:00

We are having a ramp built at the back door so that Surrey can get in and out of the house in his wheelchair. At the moment he is housebound by steps front and back. By Friday 30 Oct I need to move a lot of pavers and bricks to clear the way. While I can do it, if there is anyone out there willing to help for a few hours either today or tomorrow I would be most appreciative. Just ring and let me know.

Presenting Statistics

2009-10-27T13:58:00.003+11:00

I was sent a link to a presentation that uses animation to present a whole lot of statistics about the changes in world health over the last 20 years or so. It is fantastic! Worth a watch. I will also add the link to the links below right so we can all find it again when we need to.

Enjoy!

Skype for Surrey

2009-10-24T11:01:00.003+11:00

I am currently trying to set up Skype for Surrey and I to be able to chat to you all on our new Notebook. The notebook can hook into our wireless network so it can be used even if Surrey can't get to his computer so I thought this might be an option for him to keep in touch. It even has camera and microphone built in.

So if you are on Skype then please contact me and we can add you to our contacts.

Surrey enjoyed an ice cream

2009-10-20T09:17:00.004+11:00

Surrey has now stopped the heavy duty chemo he was on and is now only on the oral chemo treatment. This means he can now enjoy cold things again. Lucky, as summer is just around the corner. As a result of his first visit to the palliative care doctor he has also changed his nausea medication which seems to be working OK most of the time and is now on a cough suppressant for his exhausting cough.

He is very weak and finds it difficult getting in and out of chairs. I am still having to lift or at least support. We have had visits from various palliative care occupational therapist and other support people who are now supplying all sorts of gadgets to help at home - high toilet seat with handles, shower seat with handles ... and are discussing ramps and handrails to get in and out of the house.

There are all sorts of other support mechanisms. I ordered my first lot of online grocery shopping yesterday and that arrives today. Ellen has used it when her babies were smaller or when times are just too busy and swears by it. I think I'll still go out and choose my own fruit and veges but that is a closer shop.

Robyn came while I went to work last week and was able to do some of her patchwork upstairs. That was great to have the opportunity to go in and see the people I needed to see and not worry about Surrey falling or needing something. While Geoff was here on Saturday I went for a quick shopping trip to Spotlight for more supplies to keep me going on my current patchwork project.

A holiday in Noosa

2009-10-15T07:01:00.006+11:00

Geoff and Jen had a great holiday in Noosa last weekend. They were able to stay in a great house which Geoff described as 'big and white' both inside and out. It was really well appointed and they were very lucky to have the experience and share it all with their photos and phone calls.

They did a lot of relaxing on the white leather lounge and also visited Australia Zoo, the Ginger Factory and the Macadamia Farm. And of course there was Noosa beach to investigate.

The house is now on the market and I guess they wish they could live there but jobs and funds are a real issue.

Surrey's new car

2009-10-13T10:29:00.003+11:00

Well here are the first photos of our new car that will replace Surrey's Hilux which is now about to fall apart. It is a Renault Koleos and is very comfortable to drive.

It even goes up our very narrow drive and will fit in the tall carport where the Hilux used to go. It is only a two wheel drive but will probably meet all our current and even future needs.

It was delivered yesterday and the salesman very carefully showed us all the bells and whistles before taking me for a test drive and a few lessons thrown in. We had intended replacing Surrey's car at the end of last year but our intentions were thwarted by Surrey's illness. All things come to those who wait!

Sometimes I just sits...

2009-10-10T07:47:00.005+11:00

Surrey is doing a lot of just sitting at the moment.

His mobility is now very limited and the Sister at the Oncology Day Centre has decided he should have a week off his chemo injection on Monday so has said not to come. Surrey is really looking forward to a week off. She will talk to the Oncologist about how to proceed. She is also going to have someone come to assess Surrey and our house to supply all the things he needs like proper chair for TV, wheel chair etc. Even though he has now lost about 40 kg he is still quite heavy when I have to help him out of the chair. I am having to help him dress as well.

The thing Surrey is craving at the moment is ice cream. He has not been able to eat it for some months as the type of chemo he was on gave him a severe reaction to cold. With this chemo stopped he might even gradually be able to introduce that into his very limited diet. I've stocked the freezer just in case.

If you ever saw his room at work you would recognise some of these pictures, including the embroidery above. In case you can't remember here are some photos taken quite early this year.

Since then he and I have been working hard sorting through everything. Here is a picture taken in July this year. It is even tidier now but also looking a bit empty as Surrey has taken all the books home that he needs to be able to continue working.

The latest update

2009-10-08T15:00:00.002+11:00

Surrey is not doing well at the moment and we are not sure if it is the cancer itself, the chemo, the anti nausea drugs or the cold he has had. Maybe a reaction to all of it. He has no strength to get in and out of chairs or up and down even two steps so moving around the place is a bit difficult. The cold seems to be getting a bit better so that will be one less attack on his system. With a change in chemo due soon we are hoping that reactions will change for the better, but I suppose they could be worse which will not be good. We'll see how it all goes.

I went into the Herbarium on my own this morning and cleared up a little more of Surrey's room. Those of you who know his room would be astounded by the changes that have occurred over the last few months. One day I'll put up some pics.

Surrey's health update

2009-09-30T06:07:00.004+10:00

Surrey had a CT scan yesterday that shows the liver cancer is growing despite the chemotherapy. He has chosen to continue the chemo in the hopes that it is actually slowing the whole process. The oncologist gave him the option to stop or continue and has now decided to change the type of chemo. Nausea seems to be less of a worry with his new medications for that. At last!

He continues to work one morning each week at the Herbarium and to work in the mornings at home (sometimes longer than others). At the moment he has a bit of a cold which is a nuisance because his cough (a real one this time rather than his original cough) wakes him up.

I am enjoying the opportunity to be with him while I am on long service leave. Lot's of tidying of my junk is getting done and I am giving away to friends and donating to charity lots of things I no longer want but always kept 'because they might come in handy one day'. Anyone who wants to collect science teaching stuff, how to paint and draw books ... and lots more should say so now or forever hold your peace. Upstairs is becoming almost bearable for patchwork and visitors.

Thanks to all those who continue to watch this blog, email, leave comments and visit. Surrey and I are very grateful for all your support. Don't be afraid to ring anytime between about 9am and 8 pm any day on the off-chance we'll get to the phone.

The sun will come out tomorrow...

2009-09-23T07:27:00.002+10:00

Here are some pics I took at 7am this morning in the dust storm. According to the weather bureau it is going to be like this all day and they are recommending shutting ourselves inside.

At first light it was all an incredible red colour.

A visit to Berry

2009-09-23T07:16:00.004+10:00

Surrey and I enjoyed a few days at Berry. It started with Ellen, Rod, Alex and Luke, Geoff and Jen, and Brendan, then Lauchlan all in residence but by Sunday night it was just us four. Surrey is looking deceptively healthy in this photo. He is on new medication for the nausea and at last, it seems to be working. Now he is just extremely weak. Janice and I went to see a movie, Coco, with her movie group on Monday morning. I did enjoy it.

Roger (Rauri) and Janice have now recovered from the onslaught. Tuesday morning we awoke to a very hazy sky, not sure if it was sea mist or dust but it did not seem red enough for dust.

This is sunrise over the yards!

Spring is time for chook poo

2009-09-14T14:21:00.002+10:00

Does your garden need some encouragement? Feel free to call and make an appointment to bring your spades. Happy to help you if you would like to join in the digging.

We would love to see you for a nice cup of tea even if you don't need chook poo.

Long service leave is going fine but the current house maintenance is a bit of a juggling act. Windows are being painted, fly screens are being replaced (having been eaten by the cockatoos) and we are getting solar power panels installed. That all has to fit around chemotherapy, specialist visits and family get togethers.

Surrey is not bad though the nausea is exhausting still. He is a bit low and slow but still getting into work for about half a day each week.

Long Service Leave Begins

2009-09-04T10:15:00.003+10:00

Hooray! I am now on Long Service Leave for 2 whole months. This was to be a long trip for Surrey and I through Canada and the USA. We'd been planning it for some time. So now we are spending our money on the house instead. Obviously our plans have had to change but we will still be spending time together.

My plans now include:

enjoying all the bonus moments together that Surrey and I have been granted
supporting Surrey through the hard times and hospital visits
creating some quilts that have been buzzing around in my head for ages
working with Mum to do some family history research
sorting through and removing all the clutter that prevents me from enjoying being at home
leaving the cleaning to the cleaners
working with Surrey at the Gardens half a day each week
playing with our two boys Alex and Luke
having fun times with the family
enjoying all the opportunities we get to entertain friends who visit for short or long stays
visiting friends when Surrey's health permits

I am looking at this leave as 'practising retirement' to see how much work I can give up and still stay sane.

So feel free to join us any time for any of the above activities, or even ones I forgot to mention, just ring to check we are at home.

What's the best part about having a birthday?

2009-08-30T15:23:00.004+10:00

Is it playing with Mum when the presents are all opened?

Or is it opening presents with your brother because you nearly share a birthday?

Or is it playing together quietly at the end of the party?

Or perhaps it was SPEED when boys, bikes and a thin yellow line are in the same place at the same time?

The party was lots of fun and held in the local scout hall again. A fantastic venue, especially for parents. Pass the parcel is quite tricky with 2-4 year olds!

Then there is the fairy bread and fairy bread face that accompanies it.

Or even just posing for the many cameras that appear.

Pa was there and enjoyed the fun, but perhaps not all the noise.

Happy birthday boys! We all had a great time. And a special thank you to Mum and Dad and all the 'aunts', 'uncles' and 'grans'.

Rain at Underhill

2009-08-30T15:16:00.003+10:00

Yesterday Leonie and I drove to Underhill. Jobs to be done included buying chook food on the way down, spreading chook poo, removing nails from some dirt on the parking area with a large magnet and blocking off some wombat holes in the fence to the dog yard (at least they've done some mowing for us). It rained quite heavily all the time we were doing this but fined up in time for us to enjoy a picnic lunch and dry off a bit.

But this visit was followed by another adventure. Leonie and I had a lovely time testing the Mittagong section of our Southern Highlands Quilting tour (see Rainbow Connection Quilters blog). Leonie spent lots of money and I even spent a little. We had a great time and eventually arrived home at about 5pm having left at 7.30am. A long day!

A visit to the beach

2009-08-27T14:13:00.003+10:00

Today was Surrey's regular morning at work. On the way home we bought fish and chips and potato scallops and parked on Botany Bay for our lunch. It was calm and sunny and the water was so clean and clear that I even took my shoes off and went for a paddle. Surrey is now having a 'nanna nap' as it was such a soporific experience.

Chemotherapy again

2009-08-17T07:22:00.002+10:00

Surrey is due for his second chemotherapy injection today and an oncologists visit tomorrow. He is also on oral chemotherapy daily and has been on that for about 4 weeks now. He is low and slow with nausea his constant companion. It really exhausts him, especially in the late afternoon and evening. More pills for that!

Meanwhile, through all of this he continues to go to work one morning a week and churn out various tasks for publications and research. He enjoys people staying and even quilting weekends.

Cousins visiting

2009-08-10T06:49:00.005+10:00

This weekend we've had a great time with a visit from my cousins Kathleen, Barbara and Dianne. We visited Mum.

And enjoyed lunch at Desley's.

Then walked in the park.

Barbara was official photographer.

Mum and her personal trainer.

And a beautiful tree that inspired us all.

It was the first time we'd all caught up with each other at the same time for many decades and it has been wonderful. Dianne and I were able to see a great craft show and she bought a stack of weaving supplies at half price. We have done lots of nattering and Geoff was able to come and meet the cousins too. Unfortunately Ellen has the flu so did not want to bring it to us all (especially Surrey) so no visit from her or the boys. Rod called in for five minutes to deliver goodies to Surrey so was able to meet Dianne.

Christmas in July

2009-07-26T12:14:00.005+10:00

Yesterday we celebrated Christmas in July with a small crowd of mostly botany friends (and our kids and grandkids). Thank you to all who made this day so special for us both. Special thanks to Leonie who spent days at home and then two days with us preparing, cooking and decorating. She even made a gingerbread house for the boys.

Thanks to all our guests who provided a sumptuous meal and coped with the fact that our oven is out of action. And then there were those who seemed to wash up for hours after the meal as the dishwasher through a spasm for some reason. It is better now. Thanks to Rod who mended a leaking washer in the laundry amidst all the party fun.

Thanks too to Alex and Luke for making it so much like Christmas for us all.

We'd love a copy of any photos that others were able to take amidst the chaos.

Congratulations!

2009-07-23T16:37:00.004+10:00

Surrey is so pleased to have received this award in recognition of his work on aquatic plants! Don from Connecticut attended the award ceremony and will be delivering it to Surrey later but meanwhile he has sent a photo for us.

Thank you Don and congratulations to Surrey!

The cause of the nausea

2009-07-22T17:44:00.002+10:00

Well the good news is that the radiotherapy got rid of Surrey's cancer on the oesophagus.

However, the bad news is that it has aggressively spread to the liver and the lymph nodes causing the continued nausea. The liver is quite enlarged and not at all happy.

The treatment now is more chemotherapy but this lot will be different. It is hoped that this might alleviate the nausea but might actually cause more so there are more anti-nausea pills as well.

What a bummer!

On being a farmer

2009-07-20T08:31:00.004+10:00

Farming is about sitting in the sun on the verandah.
Or planning and discussing the days events together.

It's about moving the cattle together. Many hands make light work - or is it many little hands make work?

Sometimes it is about working in the vegetable garden so we can all be fed next season. Here's Geoff and Jen preparing to transplant asparagus crowns.

We had a great weekend at Berry. There are more pics on Ellen's blog.

Progress

2009-07-17T11:52:00.005+10:00

From March when Surrey was particularly low with chemotherapy and the whirlwind that was hitting his room in the form of me 'sorting' it out, he has progressed to putting on a brave face as he does his 5 mins every few days on the exercise bike. He even has a little more hair! And he's looking trim, taught and terrific when he is not exhausted from nausea.

Two weeks off

2009-07-11T10:31:00.004+10:00

Well Surrey is now starting his round of blood tests, CT scans and visits to various specialists over the next two weeks. To cope with all this to-ing and fro-ing I am taking nearly two weeks off. I do hope this gives me a bit of time to do a bit of photo album catch up and even some patchwork. I will update the blog in a few weeks when we know the outcome of all the coming visits.

Two weeks on

2009-06-17T16:44:00.002+10:00

Anne and I went to Underhill last Saturday and finished hanging the new gate on one of the yards. The old one was a timber one and had rotted away completely.

On the Sunday Anne went to IKEA for me and bought me the cupboard I wanted for the laundry so I spent the afternoon assembling it. Now the laundry is all sorted and has a distinct lived-in look.

Surrey continues to suffer from nausea and it is still quite erratic so he doesn't seem to be able to guess when to take the tablets to solve the problem.

Radiotherapy ends

2009-06-08T08:55:00.003+10:00

Surrey finished radiotherapy on Friday and is now free for a month or so before he has a CT scan to find out how it all worked. Nausea is still a problem when he gets up and as he goes to bed but seems to be diminishing during the day. I do hope it improves even more very soon.

I had a great Sat/Sun this weekend in the annual Chorus Oz production with the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs. This year we performed Haydn's Creation. We have a half-day part practice on Sat then a whole day on Sunday all in lock-down in the Opera House. Our performance is Sunday evening and that's it! A fantastic experience and from all reports the performance was excellent. There were about 900 singers and full orchestra!

John's Memory Quilt

2009-05-31T07:02:00.009+10:00

I recently finished this quilt for Joc to celebrate John’s love of Hawaiian shirts, the Hawkesbury River, Spencer, the “Pelican” and all things nautical. It includes many of his favourite shirts.

We have spent many hours over more than 30 years with John and Joc fishing on the Hawkesbury; feasting on crabs, prawns and fish; the Goons, the chats, the books; the crowds in your welcoming Spencer home; the friends we share; the good food, good wine and wonderful company. Have you ever had crab for breakfast, lunch and tea prepared in a variety of ways for days in a row? Wonderful!

The centre block is a Mariner's Compass block. The yellow/orange border is scrappy paper-piecing as six inch blocks.

From the horses' mouths

2009-05-26T16:08:00.005+10:00

Surrey has written an email to a friend about his treatment and I copy part of it here right from the horse's mouth...
"This round of radiotherapy is concentrating on the main tumours and the only real hassle has been nausea and that only because the pattern changes every couple of days. It is better if you can take the anti-nausea as a preventative instead of a cure, but it does mean predicting its onset which continually catches me by surprise. Even though I have frequent bouts of nausea I rarely now actually vomit, which is a bit more socially acceptable. Thus far I have only had problems with nausea, no sign yet of the radiation burns.

There is some talk of a second round of radio to target some of the larger secondary tumours in the lymph glands but we have to wait and see. Radiotherapy services are in great demand in NSW, they were caught totally unawares by the change from one heavy hit a week to daily treatments a couple of years back and the plans to supplement the treatment facilities won't see fruition for a year or two. Consequently they make pretty hard-nosed decisions about whether they will treat you or not.

I think I have to accept that there is a large range of side effects and they can't predict which and at which level each individual will be affected. I lost some hearing with cisplatin chemo (interestingly, I was told it would recover!) and some tinnitus but the latter does seem to be improving, though maybe I am not hearing it any more! My biggest problem with cisplatin was that it was attacking my kidneys and I was losing kidney function and that is why it was stopped for the last cycle. I was on the verge of requiring weekly blood transfusions, which didn't sound to me like a good option.

Tomorrow they change targets for the radio. Up till now it has been 2 of the main tumours, tomorrow they start on the third. Actually they started out targeting all 3 at once which was a bit tough for the side effects until, after prompting from us, they discovered their mistake. With this one I am supposed to end up with trouble swallowing.

Likewise the dietitian is constantly at me about losing too much weight, quite a novelty for me, and keeps on prescribing all of the foods I have spent a life time avoiding. It is hard to eat when you feel nauseous."

Surrey's friend's description of radiotherapy is also quite good...
"The treatment itself is relatively trivial - I go into the hospital every day, get bolted down to a table using a close-fitting plastic mask made to my exact head shape, get aligned exactly using a series of laser markers, then lie still for 20 minutes while the machine moves around me and beeps. That's about it. There is no perceptible effect of the X-rays at the time, of course." He is also undergoing radiotherapy.

The radiotherapy experience

2009-05-13T06:23:00.006+10:00

Well this is week 2 of radiotherapy and Surrey is still suffering from nausea but this time it seems to be about 3 hours after his treatment (i.e. dinner time). However, last weekend when there was no treatment the nausea was less significant.

He is losing weight slowly which is not good (even though he has been trying to achieve this for many years). The dietitian has put him on a calorie boost drink to try to slow the weight loss. We are both still trying to get used to this new lifestyle. Unfortunately when nausea hits Surrey does not want to eat at all.

Mornings seem to be best - less nausea. He is quite able to work and we even had visitors the other day. Visitors and phone calls lift his spirits considerably. He also enjoyed our picnic with the Fussell family for Mother's Day. Occasionally he has a coughing fit (any time of day) but they seem to settle with a drink.

Life on food that is minced is OK! I am learning how to prepare all sorts of things and find that our old Spong metal hand mincer is just the thing. All the new electric gadgets just don't work as well. The size of the mince is much more uniform and non stringy.

The Laundry Saga Ends

2009-05-07T14:01:00.007+10:00

Remember the old laundry? The old concrete tubs needed removing and the drain unblocked. They were all stained and mouldy. We also had a leaking toilet in the inside bathroom and a broken tap in the kitchen sink.

Remember the old back toilet and the little alcove Fudge used to sleep in when she wasn't in her kennel?
The pull chain cistern that sprang a leak years ago so we turned off the tap to just a trickle meaning it took ages for the cistern to refill.
The toilet bowl sprang a leak a few months ago so something had to be done. We really did need a plumber. This would mean clearing out all the stuff we stored in there.
Then I had a big picture thought. If we blocked off the alcove, raised the floor level of the toilet and knocked a hole in the old laundry wall we might have more useful space.
So along came Craig and Matt who were the main people involved. Craig was the project manager and Matt the carpenter. All the rest were sub-contractors who were often not as helpful.
The hole was blocked up using found bricks from the backyard.
The dining room became an absolute disaster area.
The dust on the floor accumulated.
The leaks in the plumbing (both new and old) were dealt with. Then in due course we had a new laundry as seen in the pics below. Thank you Leonie for the lovely stained glass waterlily for our window.

Unfortunately it looks as though we will need a new washing machine soon because the old one is now leaking. It is not from any of the hoses though, it seems to be from the machine itself.

Ahh well! you can't win everything. I'll put up a few pics later when I get the shelves filled and it looks a bit more homely.

Radiotherapy started today!

2009-05-05T16:48:00.002+10:00

We are just home from Surrey's first radiotherapy treatment. He is feeling no side effects just yet and has been told he must not lose any more weight. The dietitian (who is very good) says he must have a high fat-carb diet, something we've been avoiding since we were married. So if you see me ending up like a ball and Surrey becoming skinny don't be surprised.

For Surrey it was a maze of getting used to a new set of nurses etc and where to go for this and that. For me it was finding the new pharmacy, cashier, parking station and waiting rooms. We'll get this all down pat soon.

It takes about an hour out of the day but on Thursdays we also have a doctor's appointment after the treatment so that will take longer. All Surrey's appointments are around 3pm for the next 15 treatments and that takes him to late May. After that there will be 10 more appointments but we don't know times for those.

Happy Birthday Surrey!

2009-04-29T13:25:00.003+10:00

Surrey is enjoying his birthday today. This morning we went to work and he sorted piles of paper from his desk (most of which went into the recycling bin). We then actually had lunch at a local cafe on the way home and he ate it all. I had a hamburger but he had scones, jam and cream! He is now having his 'nanna nap'. I propose to give him steak and veges (cut very small and swimming in gravy) for dinner followed by Black Forest cake for dessert.

Wow!!

He is proud to announce that he now has his first three tatoos (each about as big as the full stops on this page) that mark the radiotherapy targets! It's a big thing to get your first tatoos at his age.

Busy Travels

2009-04-28T16:28:00.005+10:00

Surrey and I have had a very busy two weekends. First there was a trip to Underhill with Ellen, Rod, Alex and Luke and also Geoff. The small boys loved the dirt and rocks and freedom, the big kids loved the burning off chores even though they were hard work. Jess loved running and chasing her ball. Surrey and I loved having everyone there and enjoyed our birthday celebrations together.

Next there was the weekend at Berry visiting Roger (Rauri). Unfortunately Janice was away.

Here we also had the family with us and lots of fun was had doing farming jobs like driving the tractor, fixing watering systems, collecting eggs and tomatoes.

It has been absolutely great for Surrey and I to have so much time with all the family.

Freedom!

2009-04-16T15:22:00.002+10:00

Surrey is now free of his PICC line and chemo pump and is most grateful about it although he keeps thinking it is there and trying to adjust his bandage or take care not to bump the pump. He'll take a while to be psychologically free of it all.

Nausea is still there but not quite so bad and he now has to remember to have a lie down if he has an easy day. He went into work this morning and sorted a few more piles of paper. It is all getting almost bearable in his room.

Nursery Rhyme Quilt

2009-04-11T12:53:00.005+10:00

This quilt is for Tracey and Marc's baby to be. The centre of each block is a print of pictures from a nursery rhyme song book that Merilyn and I made for our own kids just on 30 years ago. Alex and Luke now love singing all the songs with Ma too.

The songs and rhymes you'll find are:
Kookaburra sits in the old gum tree
Three blind mice/ Pussycat pussycat where have you been
Incy Wincy spider
Hickory Dickory Dock
Jack and Jill
Peter rabbit
The wheels on the bus
Baa baa black sheep
Humpty Dumpty
Row row row your boat
One little speckled frog
A sailor went to sea sea sea
I'm a little teapot
This little piggy
Mary had a little lamb.

Hope you enjoy singing them all Tracey.

Chemo Countdown

2009-04-07T08:27:00.002+10:00

Yesterday Surrey's chemo pump was topped up for the last time for this series. Next Tuesday he will be unplugged and his picc line will be removed. Big sigh!

He is looking forward to the lack of constraints on movement, an improvement in the nausea which still bugs him continuously, having a proper shower and perhaps even a bit of a swim (or at least a paddle and walk in the water).

We hope to get down to the block as well.

Things are looking up, at least for the near future.

Chooks and Exhaustion

2009-03-23T15:25:00.007+11:00

After an exhausting weekend for lots of people both young and old the old silkie shed is now no more and the silkies have moved into the palacial 'back of the truck' shed. The old shed was very well built and certainly would have withstood any cyclones or hail storms thrown at it. Alan (Rod's Dad) had a great time demolishing it on Saturday with a lot of help from Alex who was staying over with Ma and Pa for the night.

Rod and Heath called in to view the works on their way past.

This task left the whole chook yard covered in rubbish. We feared that this would remain that way for months before we could get it cleared until Ellen invited Lauren and Ben to join us with their big truck. We almost filled it with a load for the tip. Thanks a million Ben!
Once they had loaded the truck Rod, Ellen and Geoff proceeded to build the new fence while Ma looked after the boys.
It needed tall people and lots of strength of which Geoff had little due to flu. Rod is now suffering a few sore muscles.
The fence is beautifully aligned, unlike Ellen in this photo. It also has a superb gate that even swings shut by itself.
I have been out with a giant magnet this afternoon trying to ensure that there are no dangerous bits of metal for tyres to find or chooks to eat. This process could take months. Meanwhile there is the landscaping and general tidying before we let the silkies out to browse again. I think Easter weekend will be the first time I have available for that project.

A million thanks to Al, Rod, Ellen (Alex and Luke), Lauren and Ben for all their muscle work. Thanks also to Helen who removed chook poo and helped me move the storage shed. Thanks also to Rauri and Janice who visited and gave advise about landscaping. We'll have to have a party in the new chook patio some time soon.

Last Chemo Cycle

2009-03-23T15:23:00.004+11:00

Today was the beginning of the last three week chemo cycle for Surrey. Unfortunately over the last day or so nausea seems to have set in. Solids just are not on the menu at the moment. The staff at the oncology centre are monitoring things to see how it goes.

Only three weeks left.

Surrey's condition

2009-03-13T13:31:00.003+11:00

At last I have some time to let you know that after Surrey's visit to hospital last week to replace fluids he is much better this week.

We visited the radiologist and oncologist earlier this week and the plan is now:
1. omit one of the chemicals in the next chemo cycle to reduce nausea and effect on kidneys
2. finish chemo after the 6th cycle
3. have a three week break
4. begin ray therapy every day for 25 days (at 9 days per fortnight) so it looks as though May and early June will be busy with this.

This all keeps changing with every CT scan and visit to a specialist.

The CT scans are showing that the sites are not growing which is positive. Some sites have shrunk while others do not seem to have.

Anyway we continue to plod along. There is no such thing as routine but there is a bit of a pattern.

Free Chook Poo

2009-03-08T07:07:00.003+11:00

After a big clean out and give-away of chooks that were surplus to requirements I now have plenty of chook poo to remove from some of the cages before I do a bit of housemoving for the chooks that are left. Thanks to Roger and Andrew who were able to adopt chooks for us.

This is well-rotted chook poo and great for gardens and lawn top-dressing.

I have tools and sacks so all I need is people who want it.

If you would like to arrange a time to come and dig out some chook poo for your garden just ring or email and we can work it out.

Surrey is home!

2009-03-06T06:54:00.003+11:00

Well after two disturbed nights and noisy days in hospital Surrey is now home again but is very tired and sleeping a lot. He had hoped to go in to work today but that is not going to happen.

This week seems to be chook management week. Roger came on Tuesday and took some of our spares and hopefully Andrew is coming tomorrow to take more. That will leave us with a more manageable 3 pens - silkies, speckled sussex and young light and speckled sussex crossbreds. I think I can cope with that.

The next project is the refurbishment of the laundry/back toilet. I must take some before and after pics to put them up.

Meanwhile I'm squeezing in a little patchwork time and a tiny bit of family history time. Of course I am spending most of my time at home actually working online for work.

Chemo reaction worse this time

2009-03-03T20:15:00.004+11:00

Surrey seems to be reacting to the chemo a bit worse this time. After he had kept down about 1 glass of liquid today I rang the Oncology Centre who admitted him to hospital tonight for a drip to replace liquids and to give him a different set of nausea drugs. The oncologist came within minutes of us getting there and he says this is within normal but not common. He suggested a 2-3 day stay as a ball-park figure before he returns home. I'll put up another post when I know more.

Chemo Cycle 5 Day 1

2009-03-02T07:53:00.004+11:00

Today is the long-day chemo day for Surrey. It is the start of Cycle 5 of 6.

On Friday we said our goodbyes to Barre and Marion. It was great to have them stay. Surrey and Barre got lots of work on Nymphaea done and two publications off. The stimulation seems to be excellent for Surrey. Marion and I got lots of patchwork and quilting done and three quilts sent off to Victorian fire victims. Many thanks to Barre and Marion. They are now home to snow shovelling.

On Friday we also had visits from Sarah and Roger and later Judy (all from Canberra). It was great to catch up with them all.

Saturday Surrey actually started more work, this time on Chenopods. But Sunday he decided to take the day off and spend some time upstairs with his model cars. He was happy there for some hours so I took the opportunity to do a bit more patchwork. I have a few quilts promised to people so like to get as much time on them as possible. It is great for us both to have a few projects to keep us stimulated.

2009-02-23T10:09:00.002+11:00

Janice was hostess of our great family get-together at the weekend. We were all there!

Ice cream freaks were treated to two types of ice cream.
Swimming was a great treat.
But bubbles were heaps of fun.
The weather remained fine and we all had a great day. Thanks Janice!

Chemo Cycle 4 Week 2

2009-02-16T14:15:00.003+11:00

Surrey has had a very busy week working on Nymphaea with Barre and they even have a manuscript finished and others on the way.

We had visitors last week that were great for morale boosting and catching up.

We went into Surrey's work last Thursday and Barre, Marion and I were invited to be part of Darwin's birthday party. You can see us in the Darwin picture but I can't find a link to it on the Gardens site.

My quilting weekend with the Rainbow Connection Quilters added more to an otherwise busy life for him so in all it is no wonder that in this, the worst week of the chemo cycle, he is a bit tired and disappears to bed quite frequently for a lie down.

Meanwhile Barre and Marion are great company and a help with work and household chores.

Oncologist's Report

2009-02-10T17:21:00.002+11:00

After a very busy 2 days of heavy chemo and a wonderful evening with Janice, Derek and Ian (long-time friend from Tassie) as well as Barre & Marion, then visit from Roger today, Surrey had a visit to the oncologist this afternoon.

The report is positive with good shrinkage in a number of the sites of cancer. Chemo is to continue for the original 6 cycles (cycle 4 started yesterday) then another assessment of radiotherapy. All the symptoms that Surrey is experiencing are within the normal range and the Oncologist has given him a few more tips for alleviating the worst of these.

So we continue our new routines and cope with the symptoms as they occur thankful for the excellent support system in place.

We also continue to live our very full life with much support from family and friends. Thank you all!

A quick trip to Underhill

2009-02-07T17:44:00.004+11:00

Today we had a quick trip to Underhill. It was extremely hot but we really need to buy chook food from Marulan, drop off some tires and uprights and pick any fruit left to us by the crimson rosellas and bower birds.

Surrey supervised from the shade whilst eating cooling watermelon.Barre and Marion enjoyed a picnic lunch after hot, hard picking and unloading.

During lunch we discovered some of our shed uprights had been attacked by white ants so we proceeded to try to disturb them as much as possible.... then watched them run.
Marion has put more pics and stories of our visit on her blog.

Barre and Marion have arrived!

2009-02-06T16:43:00.002+11:00

Barre and Marion arrived today and are staying with us during February. They left Massachussetts in 5F degrees and arrived to low 30C degrees in Sydney (i.e. about 50C degrees difference!!)

There will be lots of chat, botanising and patchwork to come!

Results of CT scan

2009-02-02T13:41:00.003+11:00

Surrey had a CT scan on Saturday to see any changes. We visited the radiotherapist today and it seems that at least some of his cancers are responding at least a little to the chemotherapy.

There is a new 'cloudiness' in his lung but they think that is just an inflamation for some reason.

The decision so far is to continue with the chemotherapy till the end of 6 x 3-week cycles before attempting any radiation therapy.

He is now home from the visits and resting but it looks as though things will continue as 'normal' for a while yet. This week is the final week of cycle 3 and should be the better week of the cycle. He still coughs a lot, eats very little, is losing weight and is generally quite tired. He now realises he can only plan for one thing each day and even that might not get done.

Thanks for all your good wishes and prayers for us both and keep in touch. My plan is usually to go to work on Wed and Fri and take him to work on Thursdays (usually only a few hours). Tuesdays is still my babysitting day with Alex and Luke and Monday is doctors (when at all possible).

Middle Week of Cycle 3

2009-01-28T09:38:00.002+11:00

Surrey is at his lowest point in the third cycle of chemotherapy. His white blood cells are low and his is extremely tired. We did have rather a hectic weekend but very pleasant visiting friends and enjoying meals and conversation together. We actually went out three days in a row over the long weekend.

He still insists that he must go into work tomorrow if only for a few hours.

Things will improve a little next week (third week of this cycle). He goes for a CT scan this weekend to see if all this treatment has had any effect on the growths. Let's hope so.

Beach Holidays are Fun

2009-01-17T13:39:00.005+11:00

Our Gerringong holiday was great this year. There was plenty of surfing and swiming.
Even some civil engineering works. We all waved when a gyrocopter flew over.
There were times to look cool.
And times for scientific investigation.
We played in the water a lot.
Pa enjoyed being with Alex and Luke and all the family of course and a peaceful cup of coffee in the mornings on the verandah.
Luke loved playing with Mick and Geoff.
There were lots of opportunities for chatting together.

Chook Quilts

2009-01-17T12:53:00.002+11:00

We had the opportunity to deliver Rauri and Janice's chook quilts to them last week when we were on our annual beach holiday to Gerringong. They really look good in the room and Janice and Rauri are very pleased. At least they are a bit of fun.

Cycle Week 3

2009-01-12T14:23:00.001+11:00

Surrey is much improved this week which is the third week of his three-week cycle. More energy, less coughs etc.

Janice and Rauri love the chook quilts I delivered the other day. Had fun chasing cows with Alex and Luke too.

Mid Cycle Blues

2009-01-09T15:43:00.004+11:00

Surrey is in mid chemo cycle and has been a bit weary the last few days. His 'cough' has also returned and taking quite a bit out of him.

I tried out a few new sites the other day - Online Jigsaws and a new fabric shop to visit called the Remnant Warehouse. Cath sent a link to a great popup book.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-06T07:28:00.006+11:00

Our New Year's day/ Wedding Anniversary was spent travelling south on a 5-day collecting trip for Surrey. Our son Geoff was able to come with us as well. Our first night was with Geoff Sainty and Leslie who were holidaying at Tuross Heads. Geoff S. took the opportunity to join us in his car for the next two days. I travelled with Geoff S. while Geoff J. and Surrey were in our car.

Geoff J. shared the driving with Surrey and did the heavy lifting as well as being able to use his experience and expertise of previous collecting trips to collect the plants for Surrey to process. We eventually got it all down to a streamlined process with collecting, photographing, pressing, and processing spirit and CTAB samples.

We then drove on to Sale (the furthest destination) where we stayed the second night then our collecting started as we returned towards Sydney.

Surrey was amazing coping with the whole adventure. When he got weary Geoff J. took over the driving or we all just stopped for a break.
Geoff S. was in his element finding the photography of some of the small specimens a challenge.
In some places the mozzies were so bad that we resorted to repellent spray to keep them from biting through clothes.But the best part was that the trip was such a success, achieving all that Surrey had hoped for. Many thanks to the two Geoffs who made the whole experience such a happy and fulfilling one. There was plenty of time to chatting too.

Chemotherapy Cycle 2 Day 2

2008-12-31T11:09:00.003+11:00

Well Surrey has now completed one whole cycle of chemotherapy and has experienced the spaced out feeling of the anti nausea medication for the first few days of the cycle then just tiredness since. He has coped with a leaky chemo pump (attached to deliver one chemical constantly) and a flat battery. He was also able to enjoy Christmas fare (mashed or chopped very small) and even some champagne and an occasional guiness (yes, they are allowed).

Yesterday was Day 1 of the second cycle so we presume it will be coping with the spaced out reaction today and tomorrow then the tiredness again. Tomorrow (New Year's Day) is our 38th wedding anniversary.

So I am pleased to report that all is well and progressing slowly.

Sanghee's Cat and Dog Quilt

2008-12-30T07:49:00.002+11:00

Sanghee came to stay with us in November and was a wonderful support during all the trauma of that month. I forgot to post this lovely picture of her with the quilt she made in a day and a half. She was keen to learn how to quilt and had bought two fat quarters at an agricultural show we went to so when we got home a frenzy of quilting started.

Well done Sanghee!

Christmas Day at Ellen's

2008-12-26T10:20:00.007+11:00

We arrived before 7 am as instructed and after a quick coffee and toast proceeded with the exciting present opening event.

Everyone had a great time kept amused by the two grandboys who seem to love this Christmas idea.

Geoff and Ellen provided a fabulous feast, almost all of which Surrey could and did eat.

Of course trains, cars, bubbles, and the new trampoline were the major hits of the day for the boys.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T08:18:00.003+11:00

We are both sitting here on our computers keeping up to date with all the Christmas messages and other news. Thank you all for you cards, messages and emails. I know there are all sorts of people keeping an eye on progress that I don't even know about.

Surrey is coping with his chemotherapy so far but is often tired. Our GP says you can only plan to do one thing each day and you might not even get that done but not to panic.

I found yesterday quite stressful and exhausting, not because of anything that was planned but I guess it just all mounted up and then of course I started making mistakes, dropping things, forgetting things. Then I exploded. All is OK so far today.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and all good things for the New Year.

Leaky Pump

2008-12-19T15:40:00.002+11:00

Last night we discovered a leak from Surrey's chemo pump to this morning while I went to look after the boys he had to catch a cab to the Oncology Day Centre. It turned out that it was a leaky connection and apparently that is quite uncommon. Good thing it wasn't at the weekend or while we were away. He now knows what to do in such a situation.

He has slept in front of cricket a lot today recovering from a very tiring day at work yesterday. Nevertheless, he was very pleased to have been able to get a few more specimens sent of at work and some other loose ends tied up.

Soft Food Ideas

2008-12-17T11:45:00.003+11:00

I've been looking through magazine food sections (that's what you do in doctor's waiting rooms). Lots of ideas for soft foods that Surrey is allowed. We got the OK on rice (with lots of liquid) yesterday from the oncologist so that can now feature. Here are some suggestions I have gathered for festive occasions like Christmas:

trifle (no nuts)
cheese platter with fruit paste and pate (crackers allowed but no nuts or dried fruit)
ice cream with fruitmince coulie
creme caramel
pavlova with fruit coulie, cream, ice cream

As Surrey will be on soft foods for some time I am really trying to collect a few ideas that go beyond stew and mashed potato. So far I am blending and mashing all sorts of meals, keeping sections separate as much as possible so that the plate looks like a meal. I've even mashed asparagus, beans and beetroot into mashed potato and have included our home grown broccoli and beans. We have always mashed veges in potato and call it "smash".

I'd love to hear any more suggestions but of course no nuts, fruit skins or items that will catch or clog the stent. Leave a comment here if you have one but it will come to me first for moderation before it appears on the blog.

Cycle 1 Day 8 Chemotherapy

2008-12-16T06:41:00.003+11:00

Surrey has now had one week of chemo.

Yesterday he and Geoff (Jacobs) went collecting to Bowral and Paddy's River (Nymphoides) and as well as the successful collections he had a great time with Geoff who was a fabulous support to him. They both came home exhausted but had a chance to browse a couple of bookshops in Bowral before their return - Berkelows and Bong Bong Books. Surrey spent the evening struggling to stay awake long enough to go to bed.

Today he has his pump pack replenished so as it is the same as he has had pumping in all week he should not have any dramatic side effects like he did last week. He also has an appointment with the oncologist.

Cycle 1 Day 4 Chemotherapy

2008-12-12T06:50:00.004+11:00

Well Surrey has woken rested and much happier today.

He went to work yesterday for Joy's retirement lunch. While he was so grateful to have been there, he was also very tired when we got home. It was a great gathering and he was also able to catch up on a few more odds and ends. He dozed in front of TV for the evening and had a good night's sleep.

I can report that all hair is still intact, he is eating well although it is still very soft foods, and is now able to stop taking 4 of his tablets for breakfast but has another one to start.

If you are thinking of visiting please ring first as there are many things taking us out of the house at the moment. Remember, our home has elastic walls and you can always make your own teas and meals.

Cycle 1 Day 1 Chemotherapy

2008-12-09T15:06:00.005+11:00

Well today's experience was better than expected. After 4 hours of a variety of drips fed in through Surrey's PICC line he is now full of toxins that hopefully will start working on his cancer.

The nurse spent lots of time discussing every little detail. He has come away with a swag of tablets, most of which are to combat nausea which is caused by one of the drugs. One of the others will probably cause hair loss. The third is administered via a pump continuously. This will be topped up next week and the week after. There will thus be two more visits in Cycle 1 - each one week apart then starts Cycle 2 up to 6 cycles.

He is now home reading in front of TV and is quite comfortable at the moment. We will see what the next few days bring.

Surrey's condition - no change

2008-12-06T07:38:00.004+11:00

Thanks for all the prayers, good vibes, visits, phone calls and emails. It is so great to have such a supportive network of friends. It is amazing how word has spread and we are getting messages from far and wide.

Surrey's condition has not changed but chemotherapy will be starting next Tuesday. There is no telling how he will react to that. It is just a wait and see approach. Meanwhile we live from day to day.

I took him to work last Thursday and worked with him to catch up on a few bits and pieces that were holding up projects he is working on with others. I even cleaned his sink area! We will go to work again when he feels up to it. Planning activities is difficult because he does tire easily.

He doesn't have to have pureed food now (hooray!) but does need soft food with sauces - no crumbly, lumpy or nutty foods. Christmas fare could be a bit different this year. No Rocky Road! Oh no! I am going to have to make some without nuts. We were even able to sort through our Christmas presents yesterday and were surprised that we have that all under control.

I will update again in a week or so to let you all know how he is surviving with chemo.

Surrey is home!

2008-11-28T09:15:00.004+11:00

Surrey has just arrived home and is now trying to get life back to as normal as possible. The first thing he asked for is the blog update followed by real coffee and I even have some mango that I can puree for him.

Thursday's News

2008-11-27T14:03:00.003+11:00

Well, I got a call today to say Surrey could come home but that decision was changed an hour later. They are still trying to get the radiotherapist to visit Surrey and discuss needs, options and procedures. So he is still in hospital but the talk is that he will come home tomorrow. Just ring the hospital to see if he is still there if you are thinking of visiting.

We are expecting visitors to stay this weekend at home so next week might be a better time to visit if you are thinking about it. Again ring me at home to see what is happening before travelling long distances.

Surrey wants to spend some time sorting out projects at work as soon as he can but will also need to allow time for chemo and radiotherapy and recovery from those so we could be anywhere at any time.

Thanks for all the emails and comments and stay positive for him.

Room with a view

2008-11-26T05:40:00.004+11:00

I think Surrey is just enjoying his room with a view. That's why he is not coming home from hospital yet.

This Morning

2008-11-25T09:42:00.003+11:00

Surrey is to have a PICC line inserted today for his chemotherapy that will start soon. He is also waiting for the radiotherapist to come and discuss that treatment with him. Meanwhile his haemoglobin levels have dropped meaning that he is bleeding somewhere so that has to be investigated and stabilised before he comes home as well. It is not all going to be plain sailing so it will continue to be one-day-at-a-time for all of us.

Less Jaundiced Today

2008-11-23T12:15:00.003+11:00

Surrey is looking much more healthy today. He is much less yellow and pasty but is disgusted about his diet. No matter what he ticks on the diet sheet he gets pureed apple! He was told he has to fill out the menu each day but then doesn't get what he asks for because he has to be on puree. When he asked why they didn't just puree the spaghetti bolognaise the answer is "We don't puree spaghetti bolognaise!" Well! What can you say to that?

Surrey's phone by his bed is quite faulty (worse than him in fact). When he tries to pick it up it often just hangs up again or the button is stuck down. Please be patient if you are trying to ring him. He is not being rude and in fact is still there.

The coming week

2008-11-22T12:37:00.001+11:00

After my visit this morning I am a little clearer. Surrey is probably coming home early next week and will be starting both ray and chemotherapy as an outpatient later in the week for the oesophageal cancer. He will not be having any surgery for it at this time. He is comfortable and tired at the moment and of course is not sleeping well

Diagnosis still unsure

2008-11-22T05:37:00.002+11:00

The doctors are still debating whether to treat Surrey's oesophageal cancer or his pancreatic cancer. Either way the treatment and prognosis are not good.

His more immediate problem of eating and drinking has been solved so he is now on a light diet. His other immediate problem since the procedures this week is that his heart is working overtime so they are now trying to stabilise that.

Thanks for the comments and emails. Many of you have become first-time blog users. Congratulations on your success.

To those who visit Surrey in the hospital thank you also. He gets very tired but it lifts his spirit to have visitors for a short while. There are some streets with unrestricted parking, an expensive parking station in South St or a cheaper one in Derby St.

Don't forget if you come and actually find parking that our world-famous chocolate factory Fardoulis is just opposite and is a great place to stock up on christmas nuts, sweets and dried fruits and of course chocolates. The address is 105-109 Princes Highway Kogarah.

Stents are working

2008-11-20T17:40:00.002+11:00

The stents inserted yesterday seem to be doing their job and at last Surrey is keeping down clear liquids like tea and jelly. Yummy!! The doctor even thinks he can start on a light diet tomorrow. His drip has been removed so they must think things are on the up.

He gets a bit of nausea occasionally and is medicated for that and panadol for pain but all is improving. Even his colour is not quite so yellow now that the bile duct has a stent.

He is very sleepy as he did not have much sleep last night with pain, nausea and the huge thunderstorm. However, he has a fantastic view over the heads of Botany Bay so I guess the thunderstorm was a spectacular show.

Thanks again for all the emails and comments. Now we just have to diagnose the problem so it can be treated. Quite simple really !?!?!?

Surgery Today

2008-11-19T19:19:00.005+11:00

Surrey's procedures today seemed to go ahead without glitches. He is now very groggy and suffering the after effects of a general anesthetic. Thank you so much to all those who have left comments on the blog or sent emails. Word seems to have spread like wild fire all over Australia and the world. Botanists are a tight knit group aren't they! And family and other friends are also helping to make this bearable.

Surrey enjoys reading all the emails that I copy into a word document for his internet-less hospital room.

Thank you also for the good wishes and prayers for his speedy recovery, and for your support for me in so many ways.