tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65670143550557775732024-02-20T13:51:51.087-06:00Wishes for RassieOn September 25, 2009, Rassie was diagnoesed with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia. His symptoms: Swollen Feet and bruising. We never exepected a diagnoses of Leukemia. The Doctors and we ourselves, are very optimistic about the treatments available. We know that we have a long road ahead of us and we hope that you will support us on our journey to recovery.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-24495962347429901102013-07-02T14:20:00.006-05:002013-07-02T14:20:42.431-05:00Its summer!Busy life of a working mom. Things are good. Rassie is still in remission. We have a few changes in care but nothing terrible. We finally took a real family vacation to Florida. It was beautiful. We are registered for our 3 year in the Light The Night Walk and are looking forward to November. Will give a better update soon.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com84tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-35460034592020645762012-10-02T16:43:00.000-05:002012-10-02T16:43:08.584-05:00Help Support Team Rassie in LLS Light the Night Walk 2012Team Rassie is raising money for a very important cause, through The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Light The Night Walk: finding better treatments and cures for blood cancers so patients can live better, longer lives. We're asking you to help by making a tax-deductible contribution! Please use the link in this email to donate online quickly & securely. You will receive an email confirmation of your donation as soon as it is made. We thank you in advance for your support which will make a difference in the lives of thousands of patients battling blood cancers. Remember, every penny helps!<br /><br />We really appreciate your generosity!!<br />
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<a href="http://pages.lightthenight.org/sctx/AustinL12/RMartin">http://pages.lightthenight.org/sctx/AustinL12/RMartin</a><br />
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Thank you,<br />
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Team Rassie<br />
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P.S. Please forward this email to as many people as you can to encourage Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-69475846480895150662012-10-01T17:27:00.002-05:002012-10-01T17:27:24.746-05:00Online Scentsy Party<div style="text-align: center;">
Light the Night Walk 2012 - Team Rassie is hosting an online Scenty Party as a part of our Team's fundraising efforts. A portion of the proceeds will go directly into <a href="http://pages.lightthenight.org/sctx/AustinL12/TeamRassie" target="_blank">Team Rassie's Frundraising Account</a> on LLS Light the Night WebSite once the party has ended. Thank you to Ivy W., our Scenty Consultant, for putting this online Scentsy Party together for us.</div>
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You can find our Scentsy Party by clicking the following link -<a href="https://mommyivy.scentsy.us/Scentsy/Buy?partyId=108214796" target="_blank"> Light the Night Walk 2012 - Team Rassie.</a> When making purchases to support our team, please remember not to navigate away from the party ID of Light the Night Walk 2012. We hope you enjoy shopping for the perfect scent all the while showing your support to those affected by leukemia and lymphoma. </div>
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What is Scentsy?</div>
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Well, Scentsy is a safe, wickless candle.</div>
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Flameless, smokeless, and soot-free — with Scentsy’s wickless candle bars and electric warmers, you can enjoy all the sensory delights of scented candles without the dangers of an open flame. Simply turn it on and enjoy one of 80-plus unique Scentsy fragrances.</div>
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<img alt="" height="125" src="https://imagelive.scentsy.com/CMSImages/Products/DSWALIV_HesAlive_Warmer.jpg" width="125" /><img alt="" height="125" src="https://imagelive.scentsy.com/CMSImages/Products/DSW-BLUS.jpg" width="125" /><img alt="" height="125" src="https://imagelive.scentsy.com/CMSImages/Products/PSW-GING.jpg" width="125" /><img alt="" height="125" src="https://imagelive.scentsy.com/CMSImages/Products/MSW-ABCS.jpg" width="125" /><img alt="" height="125" src="https://imagelive.scentsy.com/CMSImages/Products/MSW-CAKE.jpg" width="125" /></div>
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There are tons of warmers to choose from. There are full-size, mid-size and plug-ins. They come in all shapes, sizes and decor. Choose a fragrence of your choice and enjoy!</div>
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On Another Note</div>
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We should be collecting our donations for our Balloon Kit Fundraiser that we had set up at Corona's Mexican Restaurant tonight. I will let you know how we did within a day or two. We are very thankful to the Owner and Staff of Corona's for supporting Team Rassie!<br />
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God Bless!Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-34283719930357169232012-09-01T09:46:00.000-05:002012-09-01T09:46:31.508-05:00Bittersweet <div style="text-align: center;">
This past week, Daddy's little girl, started school for the very first time. It was exciting and hard all at the same time. Our first born was old enough to start Pre-K. Boy how time flies. Luckily, there were no tears. Scarlett was our little champ. She walked right into her class room, all smiles. She hesitated to sit down at first, there were only seats next to the boys left. But, she did sit and started coloring. With a big smile she waved good bye and that was that. </div>
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Lane was a good sport as well. Being only 3 he is not old enough for Pre-K this year. However, he was deteremined he was going to school as well. He was so handsome dressed up in his little school clothes. We had to find him a backpack like Sissy's and he had to wear it into the school just like her. After dropping Scarlett off he said we were going to his school. We explained he wasn't old enough. He was ok with that. His one little worry was lunch and who was going to feed Scarlett. Once we told him she would eat at school he was fine. He's been happy with Daddy and Lane alone time while Sissy is at school.</div>
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We are so thankful for the treatments Rassie has received. We are overjoyed that he is in clinical remission. Even more so, we are so BLESSED that he is able to be here with us through these Bittersweet moments of watching our children grow.</div>
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God Bless</div>
Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-24256889849568577552012-08-20T19:21:00.000-05:002012-08-20T20:41:42.859-05:00Out With The Old, In With The NewRassie and I finally made the decision for him to switch oncologists. It's been something we have been thinking about for a while now. At his last appointment the doctor he was seeing, well lets just say Rassie had had enough! We were already upset over the whole Gleevec incident. Let's face it. If the meds are working why say they're not doing their job and try to change them? But, this was a whole new problem. His oncologist had said the Gleevec was making his Triglycerids high and high they were. He went into the last appointment with labs that read critical across the top in red!!! Yep, they were that high. And what did little miss doctor do? Tell him to take lab paper and try to get in to see his primary ASAP. No referral, no calling herself to get him seen, nothing! Rassie's on the verge of a heart attack and she wants to send him on his merry way. So, when he got to the check out desk to set up his follow-up appointment he switched docs. We see the new one in September. We both feel that this will be a good change. As for his triglycerids, Rassie saw his primary and was put on a med to control that. In one months time his numbers have dropped by half. The doc told him to keep up the good work. It was good news :)<br />
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Light The Night<br />
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We still plan on walking in November for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Light the Night Walk. We are planning a few upcoming fundraisers for Team Rassie! (original I know :) ) Hopefully we will have a game of washers set up in September when the weather is a little cooler. We also have to local businesses so far, willing to put up the Balloon Kits. The Shell Station on Adam's/Apache Dr and Corona's (Mexican Restaurant). We're excited about participating in the walk for our 2nd year!<br />
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God Bless EveryoneAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-40833756435046543592012-06-20T20:53:00.001-05:002012-06-20T20:53:42.262-05:00Back to the OldRassie had his follow up with the Oncologist this past Thursday afternoon. Apparently, his levels are not going up quite like she thought they were, the side effects from the Tasigna were completely gone and she decided it would be perfectly fine for him to go back on the Gleevec. Praise the Lord. I am so thankful that he can go back to something familiar, that we know and are comfortable with. Most importantly, a chemo drug that is actually doing it's job and still working the way it should!<br />
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Galveston, Texas</div>
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Babies 1st Beach Trip!</div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-30641827669341009742012-06-09T22:14:00.001-05:002012-06-09T22:14:21.652-05:00Not Liking the New MedSo, Rassie and I are not really liking the new med, Tasigna, that the doctor put him on. I'm not sure I like the doctor he under now. The doctor he was seeing moved out of state, the doctor he is seeing now... she has changed the test he takes to check his BcAblr. She says the new test shows his numbers going back up. BUT, he is still in clinical remission so overall it's extremely minimal changes. So, she changed him from Gleevec to Tasigna. She has also changed other meds. They do the same things as the old meds. The only difference? The new meds are name brand with no Generics. Tasigna was not what she originally wanted Rassie taking. We couldn't afford the co-pay of the chemo pill she prescribed and even with co-pay assistance it was outrageous. I just have a bad feeling about this doctor. <br />
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So, let me get back to the Tasigna and why it's not well liked around here (meaning Rassie & I). Rassie was only on it a few days when he started having shortness of breath and chest tightness, headaches that wouldn't go away and body aches. It was like he had the flu. Now, I know it was a new med so there were bound to be side effects that were going to show their ugly face during the first little bit. Rassie had tried calling the doctor to ease his mind. She was off for the Holiday weekend. Next, she was at a different clinic. Then the nurse called back. She told Rassie it sounded like he just didn't like the new med and not to take it. She never let the doctor know to call. Anyways, after a week several phone calls trying to get a callback from the doctor and a call to the supervisor, Rassie's doctor finally called him back on Saturday. She told him to stop the Tasigna immediately and come in Monday at noon after doing labs/bloodwork that morning. She seemed really concerned. Monday morning rolls around and Rassie heads to the lab for bloodwork. There were no orders yet so he ended up seeing the doctor first. She mashed around on his chest causing more tightness and shortness of breath. She ordered a stat echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), chest x-ray and labs. Thankfully, everything came back normal. The doctor told Rassie to stay off of the meds for the next week and a half to see if they were the true reason for the side effects. He has another appointment with her this week. So far, there have no ill effects going on. No headaches, no chest tightness, breathing is normal, no more body aches. <br />
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The doctor seemed extremely negative about putting Rassie back on Gleevec at a higher dose. I really do not understand why. Hopefully, at this next appointment things will go better. Either way, Rassie is putting in for a change of care. Neither of us care for this specific doctor very much. I have only met her one time and she didn't even say hello or introduce herself to me. Rassie tried to introduce us. She just turned her back, said "yep" and walked off towards the exam room. It was extremely frustraing. And really lacked the compassionate care we were hoping for. <br />
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CML is not Strep Throat. It's not a once a year well -check. It's not an in-and-out thing. It's an all the time thing. Rassie and I feel like he needs a doctor who is compassionate about their work AND their patient. We have a great doctor in mind and we're really hoping that he will take Rassie's case.<br />
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God Bless!Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-47727304396395178182012-06-01T19:05:00.000-05:002012-06-01T19:05:05.126-05:00Hi there Family & Friends. I have not blogged in quite some time. The last time I did, we were fundraising for Light the Night. We participated. It was great to get out and meet others in similar situations. We were PROUD to support the cause.<br />
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Rassie and the kids at the 2011 Light the Night Walk in Austin.</div>
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We plan on participating in the 2012 Light the Night Walk as this year in November! We have already set up our <a href="http://pages.lightthenight.org/sctx/AustinL12/TeamRassie">Team Rassie</a> Page.</div>
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So, things are going well. Rassie is still considered in clinical remission. He is seeing a new doctor. She has switched him from Gleevec to Tasigna. We still have a few questions about that and so I will be tagging along to his next Oncology appointment. I do know that the Gleevec was leaving his triglyceride levels high and that was cause for concern. </div>
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His paralysis seems to be doing good as well. We had a set back in April. Both of Rassie's legs went numb again. It scared us both! His doctor seems to think it was a spasm in his back that irritated the damaged nerves and caused the paralysis again. The feeling did come back after about a week. We were very, very thankful for that. Rassie's doctor says there are no promises that these spasms will not happen again in the future. But for now we seem to be in the clear. There is still numbness in his right leg from the knee down. Rassie continues to wear an athletic type knee brace for this. This past weekend Rassie had some muscle cramps in the calf of his right leg. We are optimistic that this will bring back all feeling in that leg soon!</div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-88348772948962702272011-10-03T20:15:00.000-05:002011-10-03T20:38:41.503-05:00Fundraiser - Light the NightHey there Friends and Family. Help support those fighting Leukemia and other blood Cancers. Rassie and I are participating in the Light the Night Walk. (To learn More, go to <a href="http://www.lightthenight.org/">www.lightthenight.org</a>) We have created our only little family team and we need your support! Our personal team goal is to reach $200 by October 20th before the walk starts on October 22nd. We have an swesome friend who is willing to help. She has opened up a Scentsy Party online. 20% of the total sales (before tax and shipping) will be donated directly to our team fundraising page. ( <a href="http://pages.lightthenight.org/sctx/AustinL11/TeamRassie">Team Rassie's Fundraising Page</a> or you can donate yourself on the fundraising page). <br />
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The link provided below takes you directly to the Scentsy Party that was created for our Light the Night Fundraiser.<br />
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<a href="https://tiffanychabot.scentsy.us/Buy?partyId=54796503">Light The Night Scentsy Fundraiser</a> <- Click here<br />
Thanks for any and all continued support. Whether it be through donations or prayers.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-7823672272866170332011-10-03T17:54:00.000-05:002011-10-03T17:54:48.456-05:00Light the NightI am excited to announce that Rassie and I will be participating in the <a href="http://www.lightthenight.org/">Light the Night</a> walk this year. And hopefully many more to come. <br />
This is a great way for us to celebrate in Rassie's remission and to honor those who are still fighting against blood cancers. <br />
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You too can help.<br />
Help to honor those lives already lost.<br />
Help to give strength and encouragement to those still fighting.<br />
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Our local walk is October 22nd, 2011 in Austin, Texas. <br />
There are two ways you can help in supporting our cause.<br />
1) By Joining Team Rassie and walking with us.<br />
2) By making a Donation on our <b><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://pages.lightthenight.org/sctx/AustinL11/RMartin">Team page<strike><strike></strike></strike></a></span></b>.<br />
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Thanks for your continued support in our Journey.<br />
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God Bless,<br />
Amber & RassieAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-90599119760898016162011-08-08T19:17:00.000-05:002011-08-08T19:17:20.667-05:00All is WellAll is well with the "Rassie Family". I have been just awful in keeping up with the blog lately. I hope to be making entries more often.<br />
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In the meantime, Rassie is doing well. He had an early visit with this fellow. It will be his last. She is moving out of state and he will be under the care of a new fellow. Of course a staff doctor oversees his CML and that won't change. But all doctors have to start somewhere and his fellow has been just great through this entire ordeal.<br />
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We had a little scare this past month. It was a financial scare and not a health scare. Rassie lost his insurance. His employer finally decided the worker's comp case had been going on too long and they had to let him go. (mmhmm). So I immediately added him and the kids onto my insurance. Not thinking, I forgot to upgrade my coverage in the process. So when it came time to renew his Gleevec RX it was $500+ copay! Talk about a whopper! We immediately went to work getting assistance. There is no way we can afford an extra $500 a month. The hospital social worker has helped us take care of everything and through November we will have assistance with the copay. Come November I am upgrading our health insurance coverage and our copay will go back to the $50 a month. What a relief, right?<br />
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Onto the dreaded worker's comp. They really tick me off. They won't approve more therapy. They barely approved a new knee brace. And in the meantime, the one Rassie had keeps falling apart and has had to be sewn up several times. They're useless people who really get my blood boiling. His benefits are up in November and even though they're supposed to continue with medical coverage I doubt they will. We're already having so many problems.<br />
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For now, Rassie is a stay at home dad. He does such a great job taking care of the kids. And me, well I'm working at S&W in the cariology deptartment and I'm loving it so far.<br />
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Oh, stay tuned for the announcement of the Light the Night walk. Rassie and I are really wanting to participate this year and hoping to get a team together soon.<br />
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God BlessAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-64599945617052689692011-06-20T20:49:00.000-05:002011-06-20T20:49:20.789-05:00Happy Father's DayHappy Father's Day to my wonderful husband. I true Hero and life long fighter. We Love you Daddy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmU5KVDGE1d_4NmpearqNs0uA14aLkN7ucztmZaiEX0b7Cxx7Bae7UHapiL0CT3ubpRW9zGIdrYuDUGDT2YlY8P1o9q2rIMAd_wRfUsYOv4vWPEhGjUwqjj72Bldyo48aICWn2i6_EwYF/s1600/Daddy1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="191" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmU5KVDGE1d_4NmpearqNs0uA14aLkN7ucztmZaiEX0b7Cxx7Bae7UHapiL0CT3ubpRW9zGIdrYuDUGDT2YlY8P1o9q2rIMAd_wRfUsYOv4vWPEhGjUwqjj72Bldyo48aICWn2i6_EwYF/s320/Daddy1.jpg" /></a></div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-46117534340160514562011-06-18T12:46:00.000-05:002011-06-18T12:46:32.589-05:00Update Update UpdateI realize it has been way too long since I have blogged. Everyone that I have not talked to is probably wondering what is going on. There's lots of good and a little not so good. <br />
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Let's start with the good. First, Rassie is still considered to be in remission. His counts look great. He is a little low on the sodium and potassium side. But nothing that can't be easily taken care of. He is hanging in there and still fighting strong. He has finally encountered a side effect of the Gleevec. Rassie is retaining water. That was a simple fix and they have him on a water pill. It seems to be doing the trick. Even though Rassie does not care for the frequent bathroom visits. I guess it could be worse so we don't really complain.<br />
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Another good update. Rassie Ida making vast improvement with his legs. His right leg is the one that was still paralyzed from the knee down. He has been having lots of tingling sensations in it and delayed feeling. Some days can feel it slot and there is some pain. Other day he doesn't feel it near as much. Any feeling at all we consider "WOW" since there was no feeling before.<br />
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Ok, onto the bad. Rassie went back to the designated doctor for workers compensation. Although he is showing improvement at every single appointment this doctor labeled him at Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and also labeled him 10% permanently disabled. They are also refusing anymore physical therapy for him. It's almost as if they do not want him to get better. I remember the day that the workers comp nurse case manager said he would never get out of a wheel chair. Well guess what, HE DID! I do not understand why people have to be such Debbie Downers and have no faith. In the meantime, he continue to be on workers comp for the next several months.<br />
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More bad news. Although Rassie is still on workers comp his employer has terminated him. They did it over the phone. They said he has been out too long and they can no longer hold his position. I really do understand that it has been a while since this whole thing started. But Rassie continues to show improvement and is still on workers comp. So how they can fire him beats the heck out of me. <br />
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We are meeting with a lawyer this coming week to see where we need to go from here. Hopefully he will get us headed in the right direction without breaking the bank.<br />
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In the middle of all this, Rassie has been a wonderful stay at home dad. He really loves being able to spend so much time with the kids. Not so much the cleaning part though. I am happy to say that I finally got off the midnight shift at 911. So no more 911 calls, no more dispatching and no more sleeping days. I really do love my sunshine. Instead I am working at Scott & White Memorial Hospital in the Cardiology Department. I have been training and testing for the last 3 weeks. I have my first day in Cardiology on Monday. Wish me luck.<br />
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Sorry it took so long for me to update on everything. Just know that we are all doing well. Thanks for your continued support and prayers.<br />
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God Bless<br />
<br />
Amber, Rassie and the 2 Baby MunckinsAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-79529557796541353252011-03-14T02:19:00.000-05:002011-03-14T02:19:04.487-05:00Verdict of Benefits ReviewI know I'm a little late, but.... Rassie won the Benefits Review. The findings from the designated doctor that the worker's comp insurance tricked Rassie into seeing were thrown out. In the mean time he is getting full benefits again and they have to back pay him. <br />
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The insurance should be setting up for Rassie to see the original designated doctor soon. <br />
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Everything seems to be going smooth.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-89421242760139125822011-02-15T23:44:00.000-06:002011-02-15T23:44:06.690-06:00Just Thinking...Tonight as I sit here I think back to when this whole CML thing began. I just can not believe how fast time goes by. My sweet Lane was a few days short of being 2 months old when Rassie was first diagnosed. He is now a bouncy, sweet, loveable 18 month old! And little Miss Independent Scarlett, she is now 3!!! We have all grown together in someway and are truly Blessed. I am so Blessed that Rassie has responded well to the Gleevec. I am Blessed that he has lived as normal a life as possible without chemo or radiation. (aside from his injury/paralysis). God is Good without a doubt. I am just in awe of how far we have come and how strong my family truly is. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg68OIChsk3uxjJeE3hGJwWihZ9DCYgTVjJGXsQVn69RIUogxVh3WaZMw1CkDN0JvilBz4gN44EHKlguWkw2yVMLJ7OPFPVROGGCBK7gxlPMoR7E4Pnjmq0gjzwJQA9xO2BD2i0ko-D7bnp/s1600/lane09.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg68OIChsk3uxjJeE3hGJwWihZ9DCYgTVjJGXsQVn69RIUogxVh3WaZMw1CkDN0JvilBz4gN44EHKlguWkw2yVMLJ7OPFPVROGGCBK7gxlPMoR7E4Pnjmq0gjzwJQA9xO2BD2i0ko-D7bnp/s320/lane09.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lane</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">September 2009</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFlWWWxIl5DS_R7e75o7lQ9zyeTLladUh_5UJKnbB0SzdOJYZCborblMsNI_LhQ0EvqEgoCv0Kznp4htthQt1mhLQBK0SXkkKx4i0TKFXI-hKhv3nF3WCxYDlGNCzmuV4APbf9glN_MgY/s1600/lane11.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFlWWWxIl5DS_R7e75o7lQ9zyeTLladUh_5UJKnbB0SzdOJYZCborblMsNI_LhQ0EvqEgoCv0Kznp4htthQt1mhLQBK0SXkkKx4i0TKFXI-hKhv3nF3WCxYDlGNCzmuV4APbf9glN_MgY/s320/lane11.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lane</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">February 2011</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUY6pUaQdie9GkQbNokpXE8DbbqxZVJLSMXCKMartlPTyQqcUnX43QimOJsOO3kHlqhkTW113H1DfqQHRetS-vky56J5bgR_0Tg5TVx5aC2DMiKSUwyR4YnncMmBk6eGnITo02RishBk5/s1600/Scarlett09.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUY6pUaQdie9GkQbNokpXE8DbbqxZVJLSMXCKMartlPTyQqcUnX43QimOJsOO3kHlqhkTW113H1DfqQHRetS-vky56J5bgR_0Tg5TVx5aC2DMiKSUwyR4YnncMmBk6eGnITo02RishBk5/s320/Scarlett09.bmp" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scarlett</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">September 2009</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKc28MxBWCEtj96RYd9LwZVkIbwn5Q-yDVrEo_q3qMooe3yiUczWlQG77Zmfsiwndlci7imxemakE-C2eroLv8MCWwWVay1AK5b58P-Y5q74EG0Few2E5cEvwT4joFgFniEMFFFtkj0zpb/s1600/scarlett11.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKc28MxBWCEtj96RYd9LwZVkIbwn5Q-yDVrEo_q3qMooe3yiUczWlQG77Zmfsiwndlci7imxemakE-C2eroLv8MCWwWVay1AK5b58P-Y5q74EG0Few2E5cEvwT4joFgFniEMFFFtkj0zpb/s320/scarlett11.bmp" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scarlett</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">January 2011</div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-32897737476019404652011-02-12T22:09:00.000-06:002011-02-12T22:09:20.969-06:00OmbudsmanRassie and I met with the Ombudsman this past Thursday. We talked about the benefits review hearing. I am praying things go in our favor. <br />
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Our main concern is that the insurance company made false claims stating that Rassie had surgery pertaining to his accident. When in reality he had his tonsils out and that had nothing to do with the accident. The ombudsman said we will ask that the findings from the new designated doctor about Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and his % of disability be thrown out. Then we will ask that Rassie see the original designated doctor. Based on what the original doctor says, will determine what benifits Rassie will be eligble for.<br />
The insurance company has also been denying physical therpay treatment based on what was said. Their claim is that if he is permanently disabled he no longer neads treatment!<br />
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Next Thursday, February 17th, we have the benefits review hearing. I will update everyone then.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-27748135311620513322011-01-26T11:16:00.000-06:002011-01-26T11:16:39.716-06:00Benefits HearingSo, Rassie has a benefits hearing Scheduled for the morning of February 17, 2011. Just trying to get everything settled with worker's comp. <br />
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The 3rd party doctor says Rassie has met MMI (maximum medical improvement) and labeled him 10% disabled. Worker's comp has decreased his weekly checks and will only pay him for a remaining 30 weeks.<br />
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Dr. F at Scott & White, disagrees. He has documented improvement at each appointment. And says that if Rassie works hard he will still fully recover.<br />
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Rassie is extremely determined to fully recover and go back to work in the oil field. He continues to do therapy on his own here at home. Worker's comp has not approved any more physical therapy at the hospital and I dont think they will in the future unless we win the benefits hearing.<br />
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I am praying that the benefits hearing goes in our favor. Worker's comp played a sneaky game by switching out the 3rd party doctor Rassie had been seeing just so they could get the answer they wanted. They don't want to have to pay anymore. But, they've been playing this game since day 1 when they tried to blame his paralysis on his CML. It was like they were trying to say getting hit in the back twice with a cable would not cause paralysis but luekemia would. <br />
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I am just ready for this all to be over with!<br />
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On another note, I'm adding a few pics. They're not the newest and most up to date but they'll do :)<br />
The 1st is Rassie mowing the grass back in October! Practicing that physical therapy at home. And the 2nd is Rassie and the babies on Christmas Morning.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkjNIfBY_lDu-mv9wACehi-rtIPKSShz3f2lbtRxXeBBLH0l7nUDpOa9X3jUpXM0OOvrzSYnGLwQh_NC4f5rTFKLsA7ONVM7l9TmDVkwsIZG5dunLPhJy1aR3TE1dq4oUQun20zpRJ0LB/s1600/mowing.bmp" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkjNIfBY_lDu-mv9wACehi-rtIPKSShz3f2lbtRxXeBBLH0l7nUDpOa9X3jUpXM0OOvrzSYnGLwQh_NC4f5rTFKLsA7ONVM7l9TmDVkwsIZG5dunLPhJy1aR3TE1dq4oUQun20zpRJ0LB/s320/mowing.bmp" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgc00ojcZ3l_SJvkrz8f3er0G4CM7PuIjoHj__NguNHadXHPwbGivSg7u9xJpELOAYEyC3ZcgEORdJbBH2cugJ_p9Is_R5PQELCa04JId4Bmaqu2GiQSrlUVd8Z69CG08htl15mtgmDy47/s1600/Christmas+Morning.bmp" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgc00ojcZ3l_SJvkrz8f3er0G4CM7PuIjoHj__NguNHadXHPwbGivSg7u9xJpELOAYEyC3ZcgEORdJbBH2cugJ_p9Is_R5PQELCa04JId4Bmaqu2GiQSrlUVd8Z69CG08htl15mtgmDy47/s320/Christmas+Morning.bmp" /></a></div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-9260417569124308252011-01-06T13:57:00.000-06:002011-01-06T13:57:59.364-06:00JanuarySo, things seem to be going well around here. Rassie is still improving day after day since his accident. We've had a few bumps in the road with worker's comp but we are definitely work on it.<br />
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Zurich, the worker's comp insurance decided to pull a fast one on us. Rassie had to see a 3rd party doctor again for his 2nd opinion. The difference this time, they claimed the 3rd party doctor he had been seeing was not certified to see him because he had surgery. BIG LIE. Well, Rassie did have surgery, he had his tonsils out. But, it had NOTHING to do with the accident and therefore, worker's comp had no right to change doctors. Want to know why they changed doctors for their 2nd opinion? It's because they didn't agree with the original doctor. They were wanting a doctor who would say Rassie was permanently disabled so they could quit paying. We're in the middle of disputing this claim. The Dr. F and the physical therapist have both written letters disputing the 3rd party doctor's claim. Everytime Rassie goes in for an appointment he shows improvement. So there is no way he has met Maximum Medical Improvement (mmi) when he is still in the process of making improvements! Worker's comp is such a pain in my butt!<br />
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On another note, Rassie had an oncology appointment on January 4th. His numbers are still good. There was a slight increase though. The last time he had labs done his Abr was at .0007 and this time he was at .03. They said this was normal. That sometimes the levels vary and just to make sure he is taking his Gleevec at the same time everyday. (which he does) Other than that, there weren't really any concerns. Rassie goes back for the next follow up in 3 months. Same with the labs. <br />
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Everything else is going good. Rassie has been a great help being my Stay at Home Dad! I know he'd rather be out there in the world working but I also know he's enjoying the time spent with our 2 growing babies! Scarlett is pushing 3 at the end of this month and Lane will be 18 months. I cannot believe how time flies! Lane was only 2 months when Rassie was diagnosed with leukemia. We have come a LONG way!<br />
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And just so you all know, Rassie is the most wonderful husband. Today is my birthday and he has spoiled me with letting me sleep in, cake, lunch and dinner! Not to mention he's on diaper duty!!! HAHA I Love my Honey!<br />
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God Bless Everyone!Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-67151073405563999652010-11-20T21:32:00.000-06:002010-11-20T21:32:21.428-06:00NovemberThings are going good for us. Rassie is doing well. We had an 'oops' with the worker's comp insurance and Rassie getting his checks but that worked itself out. It did take several phone calls butwe're good now!<br />
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Rassie started physical therapy back up this past Wedneaday. He said his therapist worked his butt off. Good for her. He hung in there just fine though. He's been doing his own therapy here at home with the treadmill, bike and his big rubber band thingy's.<br />
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This coming Tuesday Rassie has an appointment with the 3rd party Texas Worker's Comp doctor. For some reason they have picked a new doctor for him to see this time. This time they are supposed to be checking for maximum medical improvement and they want to label him as a certain % disabled. According to Dr. F at S&W Rassie should fully recover so I am hoping he does not gwt labelled as disabled. That is what the Zurich workers comp ins is wanting so they do not have to continue paying 100% and can push him off on disability.<br />
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Alright, time to get off here.<br />
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Good night & God BlessAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-51050571104299427692010-10-21T06:20:00.000-05:002010-10-21T06:20:14.562-05:00Things Are GoodIt's been a while since I've posted. Things are good. No updates on Rassie's CML. If you don't remember from the last post. Rassie is in remission. He's doing great and I am very proud of him.<br />
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October 11, 2010, was the 1 year anniversary of Rassie's accident. He has come a long way. He has proven time and time again that it is possible to get better. You just have to put your trust in God and give it your all. <br />
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Rassie went for a driving evalutation in Austing back in early Oct. I think around the 3rd. I would have to pull out my calendar to be sure. But, the point is, he passed!!! He did a great job. The guy doing the evalutations was very impressed. Rassie has no restrictions and is within normal reaction range along with all us other drivers out there. I know that driving evaluation made Rassie's day. He was so nervous!! But there was absolutely nothing to be worried about. He did awesome.<br />
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He saw Dr. F not too long ago as well. Rassie is still making improvement. And with every little bit of improvement there is greater hope for a full recovery. Rassie finished up his last physical therapy appointment last week. Worker's comp doesn't want to approve more until Rassie see's Dr. F again. That's not set up until December so we're working on what we need to do there. Or just what Dr. F thinks in general. Rassie's been working on his physical therapy here at home. He's got the stationary bike, the treadmill, and those big rubbery band things they sent home with him. Plus he's been mowing the lawn. (which was approved by Dr. F and the Physical Therapist). He pushes on something similar to a lawn mower in physical therapy so it's like he's getting the same type of workout. I am so glad we are able to improvise at home! Plus, we're going to start going for walks and he's going to push the big double stroller! It will be good for him and make the kids happy :)<br />
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Rassie is supposed to see the 3rd party worker's comp doctor again in November. I am guessing it has not been set up yet because we haven't received any form of notification on when it's going to be. Guess we'll just wait it out and see.<br />
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The family is doing great. Lane's our little daredevil. Daddy has his hands full during the day while Mommy sleeps. Lane is up and walking/running around <em>and</em> he's a climber! Not to mention a full time flirt. Scarlett is our little prissy pants. She likes to walk around strutting her stuff. Daddy has his hand full with her too with her big personality *cough* attitude. Scarlett is 2 and half going on 16. I'm loving every minute of it though!!<br />
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Rassie has been a great help with me going back to work too. He's been my rock. It's hard being away at night. I miss sleeping next to my husband and cuddling with my babies when they wake up crying for mommy. I do manage to get my 8 hours of sleep during the day but boy do I wish I spent those 8 hrs of daylight awake! But, God has a plan and right now it seems to keep me working nights. <br />
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Alright, back to bed for me! It's my night off and instead of sleeping I'm wide awake.. Go figure :)<br />
Night ..... or morning to those of you getting up soon<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu37hG82hKpi4ABtsMB0Rr_nur7643B5XGLNC9cbFvF0M59Te-6ILAv0951Q12HUdG8e3I3nKspcpJY3JOogspfbW_FkjU5ERxKb2fEiGSCmsQkwYJinvTIKSIIt6JAi1rnR3W1DKr4IqQ/s1600/family.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu37hG82hKpi4ABtsMB0Rr_nur7643B5XGLNC9cbFvF0M59Te-6ILAv0951Q12HUdG8e3I3nKspcpJY3JOogspfbW_FkjU5ERxKb2fEiGSCmsQkwYJinvTIKSIIt6JAi1rnR3W1DKr4IqQ/s320/family.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">God Bless.</div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-49906106734090365752010-09-25T16:38:00.000-05:002010-09-25T16:38:18.845-05:00The Big ONEOne year ago today, Rassie and I received some of the worst news of our lives. Rassie was diagnosed with Leukemia. We were very scared. We had so many questions. We had no idea what lie on the road ahead and what obstables we would face. <br />
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Well, Rassie's done great! His body has responded well to the Gleevec they are treating him with. His bcr-abl is now at 0.04% Which come to find out, puts him in remission!!! How exciting is that? And by the way, he has been at 0.04% since May!!! I didn't realize that put him in remission but I am extremely happy to hear that it does!!! He will remain on the Gleevec as a precaution but other than that he's in about as "perfect health as you can get" according to his oncology doctor. Rassie's doctors are so proud of him for dealing with so much and coming so far. This includes having to deal with the accident as well as the CML. He has really pushed through. They called him a miracle patient. <br />
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In one year, Rassie has gone from a bcr-abl of 96% (confirmed at his appt this past week) to a bcr-abl of 0.04%. He has also gone through an accident that put him in a wheel chair, unable to do much, to walking with an athletic knee brace and cane. Rassie is living life again and enjoying it. And it really shows!<br />
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I am so very proud of Rassie and the obstacles he has overcome this past year. It really does not seem like it's been a year already since he was diagnosed. And I absolutely do not miss him being in the hospital, but I would do it all over again if that meant having him home and healthy.<br />
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Rassie and I just want to thank everyone for all their continued support and prayers. I know we say this alot but it realy does mean the world to us that everyont is sending thoughts our way. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fr84rXBXZfjqx9rN1sKKIyrLzqvK0_GsqnNtJGQKgm3Fq6fSQ-vYe4sqk07gYCsEMMsMcgJIwD5cIIUYi1z1EhPeg0JUodyrsozboOkfTPPFEW_BLSA6dfBtuxvIpyx01qkybw9OCysf/s1600/daddy's+girl.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fr84rXBXZfjqx9rN1sKKIyrLzqvK0_GsqnNtJGQKgm3Fq6fSQ-vYe4sqk07gYCsEMMsMcgJIwD5cIIUYi1z1EhPeg0JUodyrsozboOkfTPPFEW_BLSA6dfBtuxvIpyx01qkybw9OCysf/s320/daddy's+girl.bmp" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZL2eHKhbsS_KH8kXB-x1jFQKcOg9SXblOHSr49t3POsC3mnWf0fv80L-h2odb0f1bAiKvaL0g_VXUFE4eBv2kFx2S_zlmH7mnkm2e5a-gkBz9xIcMbFqu8AI9G7CqLnDxTy4CzPbP6hX/s1600/daddysboy.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZL2eHKhbsS_KH8kXB-x1jFQKcOg9SXblOHSr49t3POsC3mnWf0fv80L-h2odb0f1bAiKvaL0g_VXUFE4eBv2kFx2S_zlmH7mnkm2e5a-gkBz9xIcMbFqu8AI9G7CqLnDxTy4CzPbP6hX/s320/daddysboy.bmp" width="320" /></a></div>God BlessAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-70968819456845475032010-09-17T00:36:00.000-05:002010-09-17T00:37:27.752-05:00What a Beautiful DayHello,<br />
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Sorry it's been so long. Life has been busy. But as they say, 'No news is good news'. And that's the case here.<br />
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Rassie had his tonsils out about 2 weeks ago. Nothing that I would consider major. They were just bothersome so he opted to have them out. His throat still seems to be a little sore from it. Mostly when he yawns and so on and so forth because it stretches. He had his follow up 2 days ago and they said everything looked nice.<br />
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Rassie has a leukemia appointment this month, next week to be more precise. His blood work hasn't showed anything worrisome so things are moving right along in that department. Rassie does labs Monday I believe and then his oncology appointment is Tuesday. I will be able to update more on that topic after his appointment.<br />
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Rassie is also doing well in the way of recovering from his accident. He has upgraded knee braces.. or maybe I should say down graded. Rassie went from wearing the 'plastic' prosthetic knee brace to wearing a black one that to me looks like an athletes knee brace. This is so he can bend his knee. Rassie's right knee still tends to give out but he's doing great with the new brace. The physical medicine doctor also had a driving evaluation set up to see where Rassie is at driving wise. I think, and don't hold me to this, but I think it's set up for sometime in October. We have to go to Austin. The reason for this, is so if he needs anything special to drive they can look over the vehicle and see where we need to go from there. Fingers crossed Rassie passes the driving evaluation and our car doesn't need any type of renovations. Oh, Rassie is also starting another round of physical therapy. From what we keep hearing, he will be doing home therapy soon. I guess that's still up in the air because it has yet to happen. Rassie will also be seeing the third party doctor again coming up in November. Guess that will help to decide what our next steps will be.<br />
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On another note. Rassie's 1 year anniversary of being diagnosed with CML is coming up on September 25th. And his 1 years anniversary from the accident is coming up on October 11. I can't believe it has almost been a year for both of these things. Life gets so busy and flies right on by. Rassie has been such a trooper, pushing on through.<br />
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Sorry it's been a while since I last updated. I have an update on myself as well. I did get the job as a 911 operator. I have been working the night shift. So, I come home and sleep during the day and spend late afternoon and evening with Rassie and our beautiful babies. It's been an adjustment going back to work but I enjoy it. And Rassie is doing an awesome job and taking caring of the little ones during the day while I sleep. He now knows how much a job stay at home parenting is but I know he's enjoying every minute of it.<br />
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Thanks for listening to my rant. Thanks for continuing to keep Rassie and our family in your prayers. <br />
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God Bless & Good NightAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-50520856727419179992010-08-08T20:40:00.000-05:002010-08-08T20:40:26.644-05:00Drum Roll PleaseThings seem to be moving in the right direction around here. Rassie's CML is in great condition and continues to be under control. He's also moving more. Rassie has been practice walking using his walker and the parallel bars. This doesn't seem new does it? Well....<em>it is!!!!</em> Rassie has been walking <strong>without</strong> his leg brace. Granted he doesn't make it very far because it is very hard work for him, but nonetheless, he's doing it!<br />
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Rassie had an appointment with Dr. F in physical medicine last week. Dr. F is very much in awe with the progress Rassie is making. He continues to gain more and more strength in <em>both</em> his legs regardless of feeling in the right. His right light is still numb but he does get a tingling and even a burning sensation every once in a while. He's able to bend his right ankle up and down and the strength in his knee just keeps growing. I am very proud of Rassie. <br />
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Here's one more bit of information to get things flowing in the upside direction! Rassie's physical therapist has been requesting for a few weeks now that Dr. F write a prescription for Rassie to have a driving evaluation to see if he's ready to get back on the road!!!!! How awesome is that? The prescription is in the works right now and everything is supposed to be getting set up. We are both very excited about this.<br />
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Overall, Rassie seems to be doing great! Oh, and if I didn't mention before (which I know I didn't), starting tomorrow morning, Rassie will take on the role of <strong>Mr. Mom</strong> and I will officially becoming a <strong>working mom</strong>! I am soooo excited and nervous all at once. I am going into the career field of communications as a 911 operator / dispatcher! I am anxious to get back out there as a working woman but so nervous to leave my babies!!! I know that this is all God's plan though.<br />
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Thanks for all y'all do for us, we couldn't have asked for a better support system.<br />
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God Bless!!!!Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-31741099116657236602010-07-26T22:32:00.000-05:002010-07-26T22:32:58.481-05:00Prayer RequestsRassie's doing great! I think his strained muscle is healing up nicely. He's up and moving and back to his old self. He has physical therapy tomorrow. We'll see how it goes! Rassie has next physical med and rehabilitaion appointment August 4th.<br />
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With this blog I have a few prayer requests.<br />
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First, a long time friend from highschool lost her father this week in a car accident. Any loss is a tradgedy. Please keep her and her family in your prayers this week as they cope with the loss of a loved one.<br />
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Second prayer request is for an old highschool friend who also lost his father this past week to a heart attack. Please lift him and his family up in your prayers also. It seems everyone is dealing with alot of hardship right now. <br />
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Third, our sweet Lane had an infected bug bite that had to be lanced on Friday and he was put on antibiotics. It seems to be healing up nicely, he's feeling SOOO much better and he has a follow up appointment tomorrow. Oh, and he'll be ONE on Saturday. Rassie and I are so proud of our precious baby boy!<br />
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Lastly, I had 1 of 2 interviews today for the 911 dispatch job I applied for. Tomorrow I have interview number 2 and find out if I get the job or not. I am so excited and nervous at the same time. Please pray that God leads our family in the right direction. I am really hoping for this job!<br />
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Thanks to everyone who continues to lift Rassie and our family up in their prayers. <br />
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God BlessAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567014355055777573.post-4349927004293493372010-07-22T11:22:00.000-05:002010-07-22T11:22:22.503-05:00MORE Updates!Seems like I'm always updating!<br />
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Rassie had his oncology appointment on July 13th. Everything checked out well. His numbers are low!!! Close to remission in my personal opinion. At this point, there is no need for a bone marrow biopsy. Hooray!!! I did not want Rassie to have to go through that pain. The only downside to everything, Rassie will most likely be on Gleevec for the rest of his life. That I can live with! Although Gleevec can send you into remission, once you stop taking it, it become highly likely that the leukemia will come back. So, what we were told thus far is that once Rassie is in remission he will continue on the same dosage of Gleevec for ??? months to follow and then they will eventually lower the dosage to what they feel is a comfortable level. They will also continue to follow up on his treatment and watch for any changes.<br />
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On another note, Rassie had another 8 rounds of physical therapy approved. Thank you God, you are awesome! He starts those next Tuesday 27th. Rassie had a little set back about a week ago, Thursday night. We spent that night in the ER wondering what the heck was going on! Turns out it was nothing too major. Rassie bent over to pick something up and apparently severely strained his muscle. His physical therapists said she had a feeling there was only a matter of time before something like this happened. If you don't know, you're supposed to squat to pick things up, not bend from the back! But with Rassie's right leg being locked in a brace he can't exactly squat, therefore, putting more strain on the back. Rassie was in <em>alot</em> of pain. He was having difficulty breathing because of it and so we were really worried. The pain caused him to have some passing out episodes. So we thought an ER trip was in order. They ran two EKG's, and did a CT scan from head to toe pretty much. They also ran labs. Everything came back A-OK! That's wh<span style="background-color: white;">en the emergency room doctors gave him a higher dose of pain meds, prescribed him some muscle relaxers and sent him home with a diagnoses of sever muscle strain and told him to follow up in 2-3 days. Rassie's doctor is out of town for the week but the physical therapist saw him Tuesday. She felt all long his back and sides and confirmed his muscle was strained and all out of whack! Rassie seems to be doing a lot better today, up and moving and walking! The first few days he couldn't hardly get out of bed to go to the bathroom. He goes back to see Dr. F on August 4th and they put off therapy until next Tuesday so that he can rest up and give that muscle time to heal. Lots of ice and heat!</span><br />
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That's about it for now. Hope everyone is enjoying their summer. I have a job interview this coming Monday and Tuesday so add me to your prayer list!<br />
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God Bless!!!Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12810057409939328561noreply@blogger.com3