tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84703724434839163652024-03-13T18:14:11.706+00:00Adrian HowarthDaily rantings of a man dealing with cancer and life in general, advice and encouragement in staying positive, gaining respect and being remembered as being a good person who brought happiness to others. Big Hugs. XXXAdrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.comBlogger318125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-80242485854427567912012-06-09T19:30:00.001+01:002012-06-09T19:30:54.807+01:00The last 3 weeks
Ah well here we go I don't find writing this an easy thing to do for some reason, but, Adrian has asked me to update his Blog to cover the last 3 weeks.
To say it has been a roller coaster ride would be putting it mildly ! In his first week home he was so well I began to wonder why everyone was being so insistent that he had to be home as soon as possible. I asked the Macmillan nurse if she Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-47039875200100439842012-05-19T11:09:00.002+01:002012-05-19T11:09:43.975+01:00
Hi all this is Norma writing this for Adrian as he's not too good. I'm going to start on the 5th April when we had two appointments one at North Manchester and one at The Christie. The North Manchester appointment was so positive they said Adrians body was now fighting the infection so all was looking good and he didnt need any more antibiotics. We were elated as we set off to The ChristieAdrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-27228948294299051752012-03-28T12:15:00.000+01:002012-03-28T16:57:51.191+01:00A bright light shining at the end of the tunnel....
Since my last entry, my life has really been on hold. Waiting for the anti biotic to work and beat off the infection.
Home visits have been allowed but returning to my room in isolation on the ward each evening.
All the usual observations have been taken and samples taken from my drain site to send off to the
laboratory, to show what progress is being made.
Returning to Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-35952695956505941432012-03-16T14:08:00.000+00:002012-03-16T14:08:28.837+00:00Two steps forward, one step back.....
Well I left hospital for a whole 3 days, being treated daily as an outpatient. Friday, my blood count was wrong, temperature up as was my heart rate. So transferred back to F6 North Manchester General Hospital. Find information of NMGH here.
More information is being sought, microbiologist and CT scan to be consulted.
How do I really feel. Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-83790780413512412422012-03-13T18:31:00.002+00:002012-03-13T18:31:57.209+00:00Cancer awareness and a period of my week. Could you cope with my life....
Cancer awareness! Would I have taken medical advice earlier if I had been more aware of the symptoms earlier. YES! I do believe I would have done. Did I know how to find the information about the symptoms NO I do not think so. I WAS IGNORANT which is NO EXCUSE!
Don't you get caught out, Male or Female it does not matter read up on it, follow these links educate yourself;
Click here for Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-77823958766479460162012-03-06T13:55:00.003+00:002012-03-07T09:46:06.418+00:00Things looking brighter, some action on the horizon...
Wednesday 7th March (update)
Doctors have been around. I am due to go back on the once a day antibiotic called Ertapenem. This requires funding but as this has been granted once before I envisage no issues. The crew here have said that I will be observed for 2 or 3 days, just in case any reactions. I am still allowed out but am hanging back today just to see what is happening. My team here in Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-72125218107554278732012-03-02T12:06:00.000+00:002012-03-02T12:06:12.253+00:00Big day in Norma's life and mine for that matter.
Today, is one of those days that comes to you once in a life time, like your first day at school.
Norma, retires from work today! Over 50 years spent in the work place, bringing up a Family, 2nd marriage to me.
Norma's later work years, have been spent in the HR department of Esure the insurance company. I know she will miss the place, work and people. Norma will stay in touch I am Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-77373531850729577322012-03-01T10:57:00.002+00:002012-03-01T10:57:36.521+00:00Go back a few Blog's and update yourself.......
At this time my body with the aid of anti biotics, is trying to clear a virus/infection, that has landed me in hospital from the last 6 weeks or so.
Although the treatment is working, my cancer treatment is on hold, while I am getting anti biotics, so cancer going on unchecked.
In the last 24 hours my consultant has confirmed that the cancer tumours are growing but until my infection has gone,Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-50467525900454882802012-02-29T13:37:00.002+00:002012-02-29T13:37:15.284+00:00Medical team's meeting's being held today.....
A registrar from my surgical/general medical team has completed their round today. Stopping off to update me of progress and see if I have any issues.
As yet I have not fully brought up with the team, my escapade over my blood pressure (BP) that arose in my not being released, last weekend. I want my surgeon at least to be present and better still my consultant. I want to get Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-54960329462762011622012-02-28T14:11:00.000+00:002012-02-28T14:11:35.231+00:00Blood pressure reading, wrecks weekend......http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport/
Please while taking the time to read this that it is meant in good faith, not as a criticism of any one person, department but only as how I saw things from inside my head. I hope lessons can be learnt and understanding met.
The past weekend was wrecked, due to one blood pressure reading, it was on the low side and the nurse judged this to be sufficient to require me staying in for Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-34812194786619250642012-02-24T11:58:00.000+00:002012-02-24T11:58:11.949+00:00Superstar in my own mind. LOL........
Hello all. Lay here in my hospital bed getting pumped full of Domestos to clean up the virus's in my system. Just taking things as they come but my spirits are high. I have volunteered to promote awareness of cancer at an early stage, the project is being run by 'The Christie' and 'MacMillan's'. If I can help save one unknown person become aware that they have cancer and they get the treatment Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-33139318703463563972012-02-23T11:12:00.001+00:002012-02-23T11:12:38.798+00:00Waiting on important news and make people aware of the symptoms of cancer.
My surgical Consultant has been around with his crew. After viewing the results of the CT Scan taken a few days ago, he has asked for more in-depth information, in regards to the results, He is not sure that what he can see is the infection on my lungs/liver or if the tumours have enlarged and spread.
He does not want to do unnecessary tests that may hold any dangers. The consultant is Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-88083255304282399232012-02-21T14:03:00.000+00:002012-02-21T14:55:16.711+00:00Whew, never expected that......
Blog slightly amended.
Last Friday, Came into outpatients, dropped off by taxi, felt light headed walking to the ward, got as far as the ward reception in an almost collapsed state. Ordered straight into a room and to bed. Doctors called and since then very changeable temperature changes with high's in the 39+ mark. Low blood pressure 71 as an example.
Moved back into the ward Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-81600089144278934252012-02-16T12:41:00.001+00:002012-02-16T12:41:24.643+00:00Wednesday the 15th and Thursday 16th of February.
Wednesday, was a poor day, felt cold for most af the day. Fatigued also. I had to walk a considerable distance around the wards I needed to be treated in. I can manage 5 meters but anything after that I need to be in better health than I was yesterday. If anyone from the DWP wants to asses me they are welcome.
I got home after 4 hours. anti biotic and then to a ward to get my drain cleared. I Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-21975979520064826162012-02-14T18:40:00.000+00:002012-02-16T12:11:19.060+00:00Monday the 13 Tuesday the 14th of February 2012.
Have to get this in first. I enjoyed Whitechapel, the series on ITV. One of my favourite dramas.
Link to Whitechapel TV Drama.
10-00pm on Monday early to bed.
8-00am on Tuesday, woke up naturally, best nights sleep in a long time, stoma bag had held. No one waking you up for observations, blood test's, drugs and breakfast.ect. LOL.
today at 9-00am, Norma drove me up to Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-52158533058887347552012-02-13T12:28:00.002+00:002012-02-13T12:28:38.921+00:00The Great Escape is complete.
Yes, finally escaped hospital and settled in at home.
I have to visit as an out-patient to have my anti-biotic given via IV
Intravenous Therapy, explained. Click here. Different wards depending on weekday or weekend.
Already, I have cleaned around the living room and kitchen, just a light wipe as Norma is on top of things. I wipe with antiseptic wipes just to keep the place Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-71511943440817170502012-02-11T20:40:00.000+00:002012-02-12T14:47:54.984+00:00Movement on the horizon....
Sunday the 12th February 2012 (am). This morning, Norma and I had some positive news. It appears that as of Tuesday, I will be treated as an out-patient, receiving my anti-biotic via my treatment by other wards that look after patients like myself. This means, which I am happy about. 1. I get to go home. 2. It free's up a much needed hospital bed.
There are a few bits and pieces that need Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-15264255854963453322012-02-07T10:04:00.003+00:002012-02-10T22:42:34.373+00:00Crazy week, red tape, delays........
Friday the 10th of February 2012.
Hmm, today. Well here goes. I was awake around 7-00am thinking I might get my anti-biotic's, as it was mentioned the night before that I would but no it did not happen, which was to me not a problem. Reason being as I had not received my earlier dose until late afternoon yesterday. I think though leaving the ward with Norma at 8-00am may Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-26167177617727405102012-01-29T08:48:00.003+00:002012-01-31T15:15:35.871+00:00and on we go.....................
Update; Tuesday 31st January 2012.
Confirmed! I am being released, my consultant has given the all clear for me to go home. District nurses have to schedule appointments for twice daily visits to attend to drains and dressings. Ward nurses have to monitor the change in medication required and supply. Doctor suspects that it will take until Wednesday, as he rolled his eye's. LOL.
****Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-60404587766203807192012-01-19T14:31:00.001+00:002012-01-19T14:31:18.681+00:00A postcard from an isolation ward in North Manchester General Hospital.
Well here I am in a side ward of North Manchester General Hospital (NMGH).
Phew a mad couple of days that has been and a few more to follow I am sure.
It all started last Wednesday, i thought I had a bit of a blockage in my intestine, a glass of orange juice usually clears it but no, it got worse. By Thursday it had swollen up to be the size of a tennis ball. I struggled out of bed and Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-73794128191300657352012-01-11T13:52:00.000+00:002012-01-11T13:52:05.422+00:00Hmm, lets look at what has or is happening
Over the last few days and hours, I have had a few low's and yesterday/today. been in some pain. (A right misery).
I have had a few low days, that when some adjustments and realisation were put in place, brought me around. A reaction to Anti-Biotics and Steroids. Last few days in pain due to blockage in my intestine. This will go on until blockage shifts.
Ongoing problems with stoma bags, not Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-35283260830194681162012-01-05T11:30:00.000+00:002012-01-05T11:46:49.709+00:002013 and beyond is my target and how cancer can take over your whole body, mind and soul.
The cancer journey. Right had my 4th treatment, in current sequence of Cetuximab link and
Irinotecan link Early in the treatment, I had issues with fatigue, then after the first two treatments a rash developed. Met with my consultant and his registrar, consultant advised a wash/lotion called Dermol. Some cream's, Hydrocortisone. Trimovate and Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com2Manchester M8 0RG, UK53.5005722 -2.223980853.4982112 -2.2289163000000003 53.5029332 -2.2190453tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-6797787098333362292011-12-28T10:07:00.000+00:002011-12-28T10:07:01.066+00:00Nearly 2012, last post of 2011.......
Well lets start with a look back at 2011;
No stay overs in hospitals.
No operations.
First holiday in 2/3 years. Travelled to Cortes de la Frontera, Andalusia, Spain.
Decided to plan a move to Corte, so to improve quality of life. Commuting back to England as required, renting in Spain. Commuting for work/treatment ect.
Told that the chemo I was on was no longer working and that Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-9652796512436642482011-12-19T14:39:00.002+00:002011-12-19T16:01:41.394+00:00Approaching Christmas....
My chemo effects are now wearing off, they did not effect me as much this time. Rash although there, is not as irritating as much, hair just about gone, fatigue not as noticeable, some short term memory loss, mainly around descriptive words, peoples names. Stoma bag not adhering as per the norm, cleaning skin regularly but still getting burnt skin. All in All, doing wellAdrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8470372443483916365.post-61602289653398413992011-12-14T12:00:00.001+00:002011-12-14T12:00:43.166+00:00Bring it on. TODAY is a GOOD DAY. XXX
Wow, I feel good today, best in a long time, happy in body and mind.
I have had my 3rd treatment of this chemo cycle and the after effects of that have worn off quicker this time, so am very positive. The rash on head and chest flared last Thursday around day 10, will monitor if this is part of a pattern as with chemo recovery time.
I have made a new aquaintence in the chemo suite, Adrian Howarthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12294012313299011446noreply@blogger.com0