Just as I predicted, Dave is now at the City of Hope in Duarte. His room is private, has its own bathroom, TV/VCR/DVD, plenty of chairs. His food is served by a staff member in black pants, white shirt and tie – “what is this, room service?” I asked. Hopefully soon they will ok visitors. By the way, he’s in
City of Hope
1500 Duarte Rd
Duarte, CA
Room 8507A
His spirits are still great; sometimes a little annoying (he wants treatment to start right away even though the doctors want to continue some tests to make sure the treatment is appropriate). This sounds silly, but they still do not know for sure where the cancer is originating, or exactly what type of cancer it is. I guess it’s been less than a week since they knew it was cancer, so I’ll admit to being a bit impatient myself.
The City of Hope has a great method of treating patients. They do a team approach so all of the experts are on hand at once to determine the best way to approach the problem without being shackled by a lack of information from one discipline or another. And I have a feeling they don’t like to fail so he is in great hands.
Some have asked if there’s anything they can send. Other than your thoughts via this website (he now is getting a little demanding of me to print them out and bring them over to read), DVD’s or VHS’s of funny movies would be a good idea. It will occupy his “down time” and make him laugh. I think there’s a lot of truth to the “laughter is the best medicine” adage. It’s certainly helping us family members through this.
Last night he asked Judy to make some notes for me to include in this blog. I guess that I forgot to tell him that I work alone, and, what does he think this is, Open Microphone Night at the local honky tonk? Is there no respect for creative talent? The writer’s strike going on, and all.
Yesterday afternoon, while at Verizon Wireless securing a modem so my laptop (and God-forbid, eventually his) will connect to the internet without having to find a wi-fi hot spot, I get a call from Judy that he wants to know if I have a tape recorder so he can record his thoughts?
A tape recorder? Record your thoughts? Who are you, Elizabeth Taylor? Well, I got him one so world, prepare yourself. And don’t say I didn’t warn you. Was I supposed to put batteries in it? Darn.
Thank you again for reading this. If you’re new to it, it reads the most recent posting first and it goes back to day one in the very back. And please feel free to make a comment. Or two. Or three! Dave lives for it. In fact, I got a call at 6:30 this morning from him (he convinced the nurse to call my cell phone) to make sure I would print out any new messages and bring them in.
Here Dave, here’s an M&M. It’s yummy! I know it might look like an Ambien CR but that’s probably just the poor lighting. Eat up!
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Thursday Afternoon, November 29, 2007 City of Hope
Dave is being transferred today to the City of Hope Medical Center in Duarte, California. We had some indication last evening that this may happen but the City of Hope is very difficult into which to get (ending a phrase in a preposition is something up with which I should not put). Today we got word that the arrangements had been made by a good friend of Dave and that he is being moved.
The City of Hope is a world renowned cancer center, known for both treatment and cutting edge research. It is also fairly close to most of us, about 8 miles west of Covina where Dave and Marla live.
He will be in what appears to be a private room so visiting will be easier. We will let you know what the visiting status is as soon as we get our feet on the ground.
Again, for everyone who has left a message, thank you. Except those who have left disparaging ones about me.
One of our relatives, Mary Lou's son Mark and Michelle Wilson's daughter Sara Lilly, is also in the hospital with a M.R.S.A. staph infection. They will be performing surgery on her this evening I think. Those infections are very resistant to antibiotics so it can be quite serious. She is only two years old and a little angel -- please keep her in your prayers also.
When it rains it pours I guess.
The City of Hope is a world renowned cancer center, known for both treatment and cutting edge research. It is also fairly close to most of us, about 8 miles west of Covina where Dave and Marla live.
He will be in what appears to be a private room so visiting will be easier. We will let you know what the visiting status is as soon as we get our feet on the ground.
Again, for everyone who has left a message, thank you. Except those who have left disparaging ones about me.
One of our relatives, Mary Lou's son Mark and Michelle Wilson's daughter Sara Lilly, is also in the hospital with a M.R.S.A. staph infection. They will be performing surgery on her this evening I think. Those infections are very resistant to antibiotics so it can be quite serious. She is only two years old and a little angel -- please keep her in your prayers also.
When it rains it pours I guess.
Thursday Morning November 29, 2007
There's not a lot of news from yesterday. We are still waiting for the results of testing so a course of action can be determined.
There is a chance that Dave will be transferred today to another facility; one that specializes in the treatment of cancer and cancer related illnesses. I'm including this in case anyone plans on trying to get a hold of him at San Dimas Hospital. I will keep you informed.
What? Who? Oh, I have to run -- someone from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles is on the phone. This is what I get for my lame attempts at humor.
There is a chance that Dave will be transferred today to another facility; one that specializes in the treatment of cancer and cancer related illnesses. I'm including this in case anyone plans on trying to get a hold of him at San Dimas Hospital. I will keep you informed.
What? Who? Oh, I have to run -- someone from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles is on the phone. This is what I get for my lame attempts at humor.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Wednesday Afternoon November 28, 2007
This afternoon, Dave was visited by His Eminence, Cardinal Roger Mahony of Los Angeles. Dave and the Cardinal are no strangers, but it was certainly an honor to have the Cardinal at his bedside. I wasn’t there but I got excited calls from my sisters who were.
(It is only a rumor that Dave, in his woozy state, requested that the Cardinal record commercials for Altmans Winnebago, with the admonition that if you bought a Winnebago elsewhere, you’d go to hell. I’m sure that even Dave wouldn’t come up with that one. And thank the Good Lord Cardinal Mahoney would have the good sense to respectfully decline.)
Where is that knife I used to slice those bananas?
(It is only a rumor that Dave, in his woozy state, requested that the Cardinal record commercials for Altmans Winnebago, with the admonition that if you bought a Winnebago elsewhere, you’d go to hell. I’m sure that even Dave wouldn’t come up with that one. And thank the Good Lord Cardinal Mahoney would have the good sense to respectfully decline.)
Where is that knife I used to slice those bananas?
Wednesday Morning, November 28, 2007
Today is a big news day. The oncologist just met with Dave and some family members and explained the results of the latest tests. I am not medical expert so my translation may be a bit off (or inadvertently way off) so please be tolerant.
There is significant cancer in Dave’s body, it has spread beyond its point of origin to the lungs and brain but the point of origin is important because that will provide guidance on what course of treatment is most appropriate.
Most information points to the colon as the source of cancer but a colonoscopy is required to verify that. They will be trying to schedule that for tomorrow.
If colon cancer is found, there are different treatments available including chemotherapy. They will probably be starting radiation therapy to treat the cancer that has invaded the brain as well.
The obvious question is “what is the bottom line of all this in terms of Dave’s future?” . It is still unclear and dependant upon the extent of the cancer and his response to treatment. My experience has shown that Dave tends to ignore any prediction on his longevity, and makes the decision himself. It appears he hasn’t changed.
After the oncologist left, I read to Dave the comments that many have posted on the website. I first told him who wrote the comment and the actual thoughts themselves. His faced beamed when he heard of all the people who were keeping him in their thoughts and prayers.
He, of course, explained to me who everyone was, how he knew them, and what nice people they were. He then had the brilliant idea to respond to each one. Through me! Well, that wasn’t going anywhere. I’ve helped write letters with him before and I may be a very loving brother but…
When I explained to him the facts of life with a few sarcastic comments, (me, sarcastic – never!) he wanted me to let everyone know that when he is able to type, that HE will respond. But in the meantime, he wanted everyone to know that he will walk out of the hospital soon, and he will do whatever it takes to beat this.
There have been some inquiries regarding sending Dave flowers, gifts, etc. It goes without saying that nothing is required or expected, but Dave’s physical and medical needs are well in hand. What means more than anything, and is truly a gift of inestimable value, is your prayers and thoughts. His spirits jumped when we read him the comments from this blog and the cards that were sent to him.
The doctors have emphasized that right now rest is his best therapy so visitors are still being restricted. This isn’t easy for Dave as many of you know – the more people around, the happier he is. When these restrictions are removed, we will let you know.
And Marla and the family are all doing fine. This is a difficult time but thankfully, God never gives us crosses to heavy for us to carry.
A side note (Geez, am I gonna add these every day?)
When I arrived this morning, Steven was there but Dave was just being served breakfast. He wasn’t really happy with the hospital fare and we asked him what he wanted. “I’m in the mood for Honey Bunches of Oats” “There’s some at my house, with my black bowl and a touch of sugar.”
In the mood? In the mood? This is going to be a long, long, long recovery on me, I thought. So I quickly called his house and asked if they could bring a box of Honey Bunches of Oats. And his bowl. And a spoon. And some sugar.
Well they did, and his precious sister Judy was preparing it and then he asked about a banana. Sliced. Judy noticed an extra pillow I was eying to see if it would fit over his mouth and nose. She grabbed it before I could, and sent me to the cafeteria to get a banana. And a knife.
I guess it’s good I’m such a loving brother.
There is significant cancer in Dave’s body, it has spread beyond its point of origin to the lungs and brain but the point of origin is important because that will provide guidance on what course of treatment is most appropriate.
Most information points to the colon as the source of cancer but a colonoscopy is required to verify that. They will be trying to schedule that for tomorrow.
If colon cancer is found, there are different treatments available including chemotherapy. They will probably be starting radiation therapy to treat the cancer that has invaded the brain as well.
The obvious question is “what is the bottom line of all this in terms of Dave’s future?” . It is still unclear and dependant upon the extent of the cancer and his response to treatment. My experience has shown that Dave tends to ignore any prediction on his longevity, and makes the decision himself. It appears he hasn’t changed.
After the oncologist left, I read to Dave the comments that many have posted on the website. I first told him who wrote the comment and the actual thoughts themselves. His faced beamed when he heard of all the people who were keeping him in their thoughts and prayers.
He, of course, explained to me who everyone was, how he knew them, and what nice people they were. He then had the brilliant idea to respond to each one. Through me! Well, that wasn’t going anywhere. I’ve helped write letters with him before and I may be a very loving brother but…
When I explained to him the facts of life with a few sarcastic comments, (me, sarcastic – never!) he wanted me to let everyone know that when he is able to type, that HE will respond. But in the meantime, he wanted everyone to know that he will walk out of the hospital soon, and he will do whatever it takes to beat this.
There have been some inquiries regarding sending Dave flowers, gifts, etc. It goes without saying that nothing is required or expected, but Dave’s physical and medical needs are well in hand. What means more than anything, and is truly a gift of inestimable value, is your prayers and thoughts. His spirits jumped when we read him the comments from this blog and the cards that were sent to him.
The doctors have emphasized that right now rest is his best therapy so visitors are still being restricted. This isn’t easy for Dave as many of you know – the more people around, the happier he is. When these restrictions are removed, we will let you know.
And Marla and the family are all doing fine. This is a difficult time but thankfully, God never gives us crosses to heavy for us to carry.
A side note (Geez, am I gonna add these every day?)
When I arrived this morning, Steven was there but Dave was just being served breakfast. He wasn’t really happy with the hospital fare and we asked him what he wanted. “I’m in the mood for Honey Bunches of Oats” “There’s some at my house, with my black bowl and a touch of sugar.”
In the mood? In the mood? This is going to be a long, long, long recovery on me, I thought. So I quickly called his house and asked if they could bring a box of Honey Bunches of Oats. And his bowl. And a spoon. And some sugar.
Well they did, and his precious sister Judy was preparing it and then he asked about a banana. Sliced. Judy noticed an extra pillow I was eying to see if it would fit over his mouth and nose. She grabbed it before I could, and sent me to the cafeteria to get a banana. And a knife.
I guess it’s good I’m such a loving brother.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
We got some update on Dave’s condition last night. The primary cause of the bleeding in the brain is cancer. The exact cause of the cancer is yet unknown, but an oncologist (a cancer specialist) will be meeting with him today to figure out where the cancer is originating, and then a course of action can be determined.
Cancer is always a serious concern, but the extent of the problem is still not certain. There appears to be no issues with his memory or thinking, so the issues will be primarily with healing his body.
Dave is alert and informed about his condition and is in favor of charging forward with whatever tests and treatment are appropriate. Last evening, when with his sisters, the topic of menopause came up (yes, you figure that one out!). Dave then asked the group if they knew the difference between a woman in menopause and a terrorist. When no one knew the answer, he explained, “You can negotiate with a terrorist.” His sense of humor is still intact.
The road to health can be a struggle; sometimes the road is smooth and other times a bit rocky. Your prayers and thoughts are very much appreciated and helpful.
With the arrival of our sister Judy today from North Carolina, the entire family is now in Southern California to give Dave support.
One last note; many people have asked about visiting. Dave is still in the Intensive Care Unit at San Dimas Community Hospital, and visitors are restricted to immediate family. He may be moved to a regular room soon. When visitors are permitted, we will update this website.
Cancer is always a serious concern, but the extent of the problem is still not certain. There appears to be no issues with his memory or thinking, so the issues will be primarily with healing his body.
Dave is alert and informed about his condition and is in favor of charging forward with whatever tests and treatment are appropriate. Last evening, when with his sisters, the topic of menopause came up (yes, you figure that one out!). Dave then asked the group if they knew the difference between a woman in menopause and a terrorist. When no one knew the answer, he explained, “You can negotiate with a terrorist.” His sense of humor is still intact.
The road to health can be a struggle; sometimes the road is smooth and other times a bit rocky. Your prayers and thoughts are very much appreciated and helpful.
With the arrival of our sister Judy today from North Carolina, the entire family is now in Southern California to give Dave support.
One last note; many people have asked about visiting. Dave is still in the Intensive Care Unit at San Dimas Community Hospital, and visitors are restricted to immediate family. He may be moved to a regular room soon. When visitors are permitted, we will update this website.
Monday, November 26, 2007
You too can add your thoughts
Should you wish to add your thoughts to this site, you can click on the little "COMMENT" word and add what you wish. Dave will be getting these read to him now that we know he understands what we are saying. You will have to establish a Google Account which is free and pretty easy if you don't have one. I don't know why, it just says you have to.
Monday Morning
Great News. At about 10am this morning, the breathing tube was removed from Dave's mouth and throat, and he is able to talk sensibly and see. We were very concerned about this functions and until the tube was removed, those abilities were in doubt.
Hopefully today we will get information from the lab tests so we know what actually happened and the doctors will probably evaluate his functions to give us a better idea of his long term condition. When we get that information, we will update this site.
Your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes have been and will continue to be so valuable for both Dave and his family. I can't say thank you enough.
A SIDE NOTE:
Today Dave and I were supposed to be traveling to the National Recreation Vehicle Industry Association show in Louisville, KY. The show opens on Tuesday and we typically arrive there on Monday evening. For years we have had dinner with Patricia (Trish) DeBacker, long-time friend and Editor-In-Chief for Kelley Blue Book (those little guides that give dealers and banks information on the value of used cars, trucks, and RV's).
I spoke with Trish this morning to let her know we wouldn't be going and she also has a dear friend, Curt Hoffman, who had been diagnosed with cancer and recently contracted pneumonia. She will not be attending the Louisville show either so she can help care for her friend and I ask that you please include him, and Trish, in your prayers.
Hopefully today we will get information from the lab tests so we know what actually happened and the doctors will probably evaluate his functions to give us a better idea of his long term condition. When we get that information, we will update this site.
Your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes have been and will continue to be so valuable for both Dave and his family. I can't say thank you enough.
A SIDE NOTE:
Today Dave and I were supposed to be traveling to the National Recreation Vehicle Industry Association show in Louisville, KY. The show opens on Tuesday and we typically arrive there on Monday evening. For years we have had dinner with Patricia (Trish) DeBacker, long-time friend and Editor-In-Chief for Kelley Blue Book (those little guides that give dealers and banks information on the value of used cars, trucks, and RV's).
I spoke with Trish this morning to let her know we wouldn't be going and she also has a dear friend, Curt Hoffman, who had been diagnosed with cancer and recently contracted pneumonia. She will not be attending the Louisville show either so she can help care for her friend and I ask that you please include him, and Trish, in your prayers.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Sunday Update
Great News! This morning when I visited Dave, Debbie and I were in his room and the nurse came in to adjust his position from being flat on his back to tilting him a bit to one side.
It look a little effort for her to do it and when she was done and pillows under one side of him, his eyes were wide open and Debbie started asking him questions, requesting that he squeeze her hand in response. For quite a while we communicated with him.
Later in the day, when Marla, Tina, and Debbie had left for lunch, Mary, Leslie, Sue, Peggy and Anne were in the room and had the idea to see if a pen and paper would do any good. And it did. He actually wrote "no" to the question if he was in any pain and wrote "I love my family and sisters [and brother - well, he didn't actually write the word brother but I know he meant it]".
When Marla and family returned, he continued.
I know these are baby steps, but we still are in the dark as to what happened and what caused this entire episode so even little rays of light give us more and more hope.
Tomorrow, they will be doing more CAT scans and should get back the results from the lab on what was removed from his skull. That information will give the doctors the direction in which they need to go next. They will also hopefully remove the breathing tube which will make him much more comfortable and allow speech when he is able to talk.
It seems like a month ago that this all started but it was actually only a little over 2 days ago. The spirits of Marla and the rest of the family are good. Marla is an amazingly exceptional, strong and loving person and her strength radiates through the rest of the family. His two daughters, Tina and Debbie, and his son Steven are an inspiration as well.
Please keep Dave in your prayers -- we should hear more tomorrow.
It look a little effort for her to do it and when she was done and pillows under one side of him, his eyes were wide open and Debbie started asking him questions, requesting that he squeeze her hand in response. For quite a while we communicated with him.
Later in the day, when Marla, Tina, and Debbie had left for lunch, Mary, Leslie, Sue, Peggy and Anne were in the room and had the idea to see if a pen and paper would do any good. And it did. He actually wrote "no" to the question if he was in any pain and wrote "I love my family and sisters [and brother - well, he didn't actually write the word brother but I know he meant it]".
When Marla and family returned, he continued.
I know these are baby steps, but we still are in the dark as to what happened and what caused this entire episode so even little rays of light give us more and more hope.
Tomorrow, they will be doing more CAT scans and should get back the results from the lab on what was removed from his skull. That information will give the doctors the direction in which they need to go next. They will also hopefully remove the breathing tube which will make him much more comfortable and allow speech when he is able to talk.
It seems like a month ago that this all started but it was actually only a little over 2 days ago. The spirits of Marla and the rest of the family are good. Marla is an amazingly exceptional, strong and loving person and her strength radiates through the rest of the family. His two daughters, Tina and Debbie, and his son Steven are an inspiration as well.
Please keep Dave in your prayers -- we should hear more tomorrow.
Saturday Update
Your thoughts and prayers over the past few days have been a great source of comfort for me and all of my family. Even more so, they have been a great help for Dave.
I wanted to update you on Dave’s condition:
Yesterday (Friday) there was little news, though today there have been some encouraging signs. Early today, the nurse went into his room in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at San Dimas Hospital. She said “Wake up David!’ and he actually opened his eyes. Later today, Mary Lou was at his bedside and asked him to squeeze her hand which was holding his right hand. He did. She also asked him to raise his index finger, and he did that also. She then asked him if he could open his eyes so they could all see his “baby blues”. And he responded to that.
These seem like very small steps but they are very encouraging to know that his upper level brain functions are there to some extent.
We have yet to know exactly what happened and won’t probably know until mid next week when the lab results have been returned. We don’t even have a clue and the doctors, rightfully so, refuse to speculate.
They are reducing the medication that keeps him sedated and his breathing tube tends to annoy him so he is somewhat agitated. It appears what he needs most is to rest and allow his brain to settle and have any remaining swelling reduced.
As time progresses, we will begin to know more, what caused the problem, if there are any long term effects, and his prognosis for returning to work. Those of you who remember his stroke about 14 years ago, know that he is a strong, determined individual and if the Good Lord isn’t waiting for him right now, there’s little chance he’ll give up.
Keep up your good work. I plan on being in the office on Monday unless something changes drastically. Thanks again and God Bless!
I wanted to update you on Dave’s condition:
Yesterday (Friday) there was little news, though today there have been some encouraging signs. Early today, the nurse went into his room in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at San Dimas Hospital. She said “Wake up David!’ and he actually opened his eyes. Later today, Mary Lou was at his bedside and asked him to squeeze her hand which was holding his right hand. He did. She also asked him to raise his index finger, and he did that also. She then asked him if he could open his eyes so they could all see his “baby blues”. And he responded to that.
These seem like very small steps but they are very encouraging to know that his upper level brain functions are there to some extent.
We have yet to know exactly what happened and won’t probably know until mid next week when the lab results have been returned. We don’t even have a clue and the doctors, rightfully so, refuse to speculate.
They are reducing the medication that keeps him sedated and his breathing tube tends to annoy him so he is somewhat agitated. It appears what he needs most is to rest and allow his brain to settle and have any remaining swelling reduced.
As time progresses, we will begin to know more, what caused the problem, if there are any long term effects, and his prognosis for returning to work. Those of you who remember his stroke about 14 years ago, know that he is a strong, determined individual and if the Good Lord isn’t waiting for him right now, there’s little chance he’ll give up.
Keep up your good work. I plan on being in the office on Monday unless something changes drastically. Thanks again and God Bless!
Thursday Update
Early Thursday morning (Thanksgiving Day) Dave was admitted into the emergency room at San Dimas Community Hospital for complications resulting from a blood clot and possible tumor on his brain.
Surgery was performed about 9 am on Thursday to remove a fairly large amount of blood and other tissue. The tissue will be examined by a laboratory to determine the exact make up of it as well has hopefully determine the cause.
Dave has been sedated since yesterday morning and will continue to be asleep until sometime Saturday or Sunday when the swelling of the brain reduces.
Nearly every member of his family (except for Steven who was in Baton Rouge, LA but is on his way back, and our sister Judy is in High Point, NC) was at the hospital much of the day.
While I cannot minimize the seriousness of the situation, we are hopeful that Dave will emerge soon as healthy and vibrant as ever.
Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated during this time.
The company will continue on its course as set by Dave and will continue to be managed by me. When Dave and I spoke Wednesday evening, we discussed how thankful we were for the great staff at Altmans. I am counting on each of them to be as productive as they can be during this difficult time. The concerns of all of you are heartening.
On behalf of Marla and myself, thank you and we will keep you informed.
Surgery was performed about 9 am on Thursday to remove a fairly large amount of blood and other tissue. The tissue will be examined by a laboratory to determine the exact make up of it as well has hopefully determine the cause.
Dave has been sedated since yesterday morning and will continue to be asleep until sometime Saturday or Sunday when the swelling of the brain reduces.
Nearly every member of his family (except for Steven who was in Baton Rouge, LA but is on his way back, and our sister Judy is in High Point, NC) was at the hospital much of the day.
While I cannot minimize the seriousness of the situation, we are hopeful that Dave will emerge soon as healthy and vibrant as ever.
Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated during this time.
The company will continue on its course as set by Dave and will continue to be managed by me. When Dave and I spoke Wednesday evening, we discussed how thankful we were for the great staff at Altmans. I am counting on each of them to be as productive as they can be during this difficult time. The concerns of all of you are heartening.
On behalf of Marla and myself, thank you and we will keep you informed.
First Entry
If you got to this blog, you are aware that Dave Altman was hospitalized on Thanksgiving morning at San Dimas Hospital with signs of bleeding in his brain. The exact cause is still unknown but test results should give us a better idea of what caused the problem.
Dave's wife, children, grandchildren, and sisters and brother have all been at his bedside as have a wealth of friends.
This site has been created to update everyone on his condition as well as add thoughts, prayers, and well wishes.
Dave's wife, children, grandchildren, and sisters and brother have all been at his bedside as have a wealth of friends.
This site has been created to update everyone on his condition as well as add thoughts, prayers, and well wishes.
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